Can the Towing Capacity of a 2012 Honda Pilot be Increased if it Doesn't have Factory Tow Package

Question:

If I want to be able to tow more than the 2500lbs that is in the spec, what would I need to do to my Pilot? The 4WD version can tow up to 5000lbs. Is it the hitch? Transmission or all of the above that get it to the higher tow rating? We are looking to purchase a camper that weighs from 3000-5000 lbs. Thanks!

asked by: Kevin F

Expert Reply:

On most vehicles that can have a factory tow package there is additional equipment, a differently tuned motor, different suspension, rear end gear ratio, running gear, and/or other things that allow it to tow more.

On the 2012 Honda Pilot the difference is just the addition of larger transmission cooler on models with the factory tow package. According to the vehicle owner's manual if you add a transmission cooler the maximum gross trailer weight the vehicle can tow is 3,500 pounds assuming 2 passengers. The capacity decreases for every passenger added. It is page 540 of the manual.

The 4x4 maxes out at 4,500 pounds.

For a transmission cooler the most popular option for the Pilot is # D13503. I have included a link to a video showing an example installation on a 2016 Pilot you can use as a guide.

expert reply by: Michael H