At a Glance
- Once you’ve reached a paved road or conditions improve, disengage 4WD to avoid unnecessary strain on the drivetrain.
- If you had turned off VSA, remember to turn it back on by pressing the VSA button on the center console.
- You may notice a slight increase in steering effort and a more pronounced feeling of traction.
The Honda Pilot, known for its spacious interior and capable performance, offers an added layer of versatility with its 4-wheel drive system. Whether you’re navigating snowy roads or venturing off-road, understanding how to engage 4WD is essential. This guide will walk you through the process of putting your Honda Pilot into 4-wheel drive, ensuring you’re ready for any adventure.
Understanding the Honda Pilot’s 4WD System
The Honda Pilot comes equipped with an intelligent 4-wheel drive system that automatically distributes power to the wheels that need it most. This system, known as Real Time AWD, continuously monitors road conditions and adjusts power distribution accordingly. However, for more challenging terrain, you can manually engage 4-wheel drive for enhanced traction.
When to Use 4WD
While the Pilot’s Real Time AWD excels in most conditions, there are specific scenarios where manually engaging 4WD is beneficial:
- Snow and Ice: 4WD provides increased traction on slippery surfaces, allowing for safer and more confident driving.
- Loose Gravel or Sand: 4WD helps to maintain control and prevent wheelspin when driving on loose surfaces.
- Off-Road Adventures: When venturing off paved roads, 4WD is crucial for climbing hills, traversing uneven terrain, and navigating challenging obstacles.
Steps to Engage 4WD in Your Honda Pilot
1. Check the Terrain: Assess the road conditions and determine if engaging 4WD is necessary. If you’re driving on a paved road with good traction, 4WD is not required.
2. Engage 4WD in “VSA OFF” Mode: In most Honda Pilots, 4WD can only be engaged when the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) is turned off. To do this, press the VSA button located on the center console.
3. Select the 4WD Mode: With VSA off, you can select the desired 4WD mode. Most Pilots offer two options:
- 4WD Auto: This mode automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels as needed.
- 4WD Lock: This mode locks the front and rear axles together, providing maximum traction in challenging conditions.
4. Engage 4WD: Once you’ve selected the desired mode, engage 4WD by turning the dial located on the center console. The dial will usually have a “4WD” or “AWD” symbol.
5. Confirm Engagement: After engaging 4WD, a “4WD” indicator light will illuminate on the instrument panel, confirming that 4WD is active.
Tips for Using 4WD Effectively
- Use 4WD Judiciously: Avoid engaging 4WD unnecessarily as it can increase fuel consumption and wear and tear on the drivetrain.
- Engage 4WD Before Entering Difficult Terrain: It’s best to engage 4WD before encountering challenging conditions, rather than trying to engage it while already in trouble.
- Drive at Moderate Speeds: When driving in 4WD, maintain moderate speeds to avoid wheelspin and excessive wear on the drivetrain.
- Shift into Low Gear (4L) for Steep Hills and Off-Road Use: For maximum torque and control in challenging off-road situations, shift into low gear (4L).
- Disengage 4WD When No Longer Needed: Once you’ve reached a paved road or conditions improve, disengage 4WD to avoid unnecessary strain on the drivetrain.
Disengaging 4WD
To disengage 4WD, simply follow these steps:
1. Turn the 4WD Dial: Rotate the dial located on the center console back to the “2WD” position.
2. Confirm Disengagement: The “4WD” indicator light will turn off, confirming that 4WD has been disengaged.
3. Turn VSA Back On: If you had turned off VSA, remember to turn it back on by pressing the VSA button on the center console.
Driving with 4WD Engaged
Driving with 4WD engaged can feel slightly different than driving in 2WD. You may notice a slight increase in steering effort and a more pronounced feeling of traction. However, the Pilot’s 4WD system is designed to be user-friendly and seamless.
Maintaining Your 4WD System
To ensure your 4WD system performs optimally, it’s essential to maintain it regularly. This includes:
- Regular Oil Changes: Use the recommended oil for your vehicle’s 4WD system.
- Inspect Drive Shafts and U-Joints: Check for any signs of wear or damage.
- Check Fluid Levels: Ensure that all fluids in the 4WD system are at the correct levels.
- Professional Inspections: Have your 4WD system inspected by a qualified mechanic at regular intervals.
The Final Drive: Navigating Any Terrain with Confidence
By understanding how to engage and disengage 4WD in your Honda Pilot, you can confidently navigate a variety of terrains, from snowy roads to off-road adventures. Remember to use 4WD judiciously, maintain your system regularly, and drive responsibly. With these tips, you’ll be ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way.
Popular Questions
Q: How do I know if my Honda Pilot has 4WD?
A: You can check your vehicle’s documentation or look for a “4WD” or “AWD” badge on the tailgate or exterior.
Q: Can I use 4WD on dry pavement?
A: While you can use 4WD on dry pavement, it’s not recommended as it can increase fuel consumption and wear on the drivetrain.
Q: What is the difference between 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock?
A: 4WD Auto automatically distributes power as needed, while 4WD Lock locks the front and rear axles together for maximum traction in challenging conditions.
Q: How often should I service my 4WD system?
A: Consult your owner’s manual for specific service intervals, but generally, it’s recommended to have your 4WD system inspected every 30,000 miles or annually.
Q: Can I use 4WD on paved roads?
A: You can use 4WD on paved roads, but it’s not necessary unless conditions are slippery or you’re towing a heavy load. Using 4WD on dry pavement can increase fuel consumption and wear on the drivetrain.