What is Trailer Towing Capacity of 2019 Honda Pilot

Updated 04/25/2024 | Published 04/16/2024

Question:

Hello. I installed a transmission cooler on my 2019 Honda pilot and have towed my RV trailer 3500-4000 a few times. Last weekend, coming home, the transmission temperature warning light came on. I was able to pull over and let it cool down for an hr. or so, then continue on. The trailer is well within the stated tow capacity of 5000 but has a large frontal area re wind resistance and it was windy. Im wondering if I need to add another ATF cooler or even a top-mounted air deflector. Or should I give up on the Hondas capabilities?

asked by: Jay J

Expert Reply:

Hey Jay, I would recommend making sure that you aren't over the towing capacity of your 2019 Honda Pilot as I looked it up and it could have a 3,500 lb if it's FWD or 5,000 lb capacity if it has AWD.

So your trailer could be over your capacity so it would be a good idea to verify the weight of your trailer as well as the capacity of your vehicle.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Jay J.

4/16/2024

The AWD can handle 5000# w ATF cooler. I added the Deraile one that I bought from you. Trailer wt. listed at 3000# empty and we haven't added more than 300# to it. Tanks empty. Additional weight in car 450#. So below the capacity. I was surprised to see warning light come on. Would a larger or additional cooler be beneficial? What about rooftop air deflector to reduce drag?

Jameson C.

4/17/2024

@JayJ Are you routing the coolant through the factory transmission cooler as well? If so I would make sure that you are routing the fluid first through the factory cooler and then through the aftermarket cooler. Having the reverse of that will basically render the aftermarket cooler useless since the OEM will always be warmer due to proximity of it to radiator etc.

Jay J.

4/17/2024

Installed between transmission and filter, just as in the video.

Jay J.

4/23/2024

I've taken vehicle to mechanic to confirm correct installation and functionality. I'll let you know. Thanks.

Jameson C.

4/23/2024

@JayJ Keep us posted if you can.

Jay J.

4/23/2024

Basically, install is correct. Honda 3.5L V6 isn't really capable of pulling the 5000# stated in their specs. (My trailer is 4K# max.) Too much to expect from this engine and transmission. It overheaded the trans. even with the cooloer. So I'll be looking for another tow vehicle.