2016 Honda Pilot Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2016 Honda Pilot can tow between 3,500 lbs and 5,000 lbs, depending on the drivetrain and specific configuration.

Quick answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs (2WD) - 5,000 lbs (AWD, with Honda genuine accessory towing package)
• Max Payload: 1,420 - 1,625 lbs
• GVWR: 5,690 - 5,908 lbs
• GCWR: 8,950 - 10,200 lbs (varies with drivetrain and towing package)
• Curb Weight: 4,057 - 4,317 lbs
• Hitch Class: Class III (when properly equipped)
• Max Tongue Weight: 350 lbs (2WD) - 500 lbs (AWD, with Honda genuine accessory towing package)

Tow ratings by engine & trim

The 2016 Honda Pilot is offered with a single engine option across all trims: a 3.5L V6 i-VTEC engine. Towing capacity primarily varies by drivetrain (2WD vs. AWD) and whether the vehicle is equipped with the Honda genuine accessory towing package.

*Payload capacity can vary slightly based on specific vehicle configuration and options. Always refer to your vehicle's door jamb sticker for the most accurate payload information.

Tow package contents

For the 2016 Honda Pilot, the increased 5,000 lbs towing capacity for AWD models is achieved with the installation of the Honda Genuine Accessory Towing Package. This package typically includes:

• Trailer Hitch: Class III receiver, providing a secure connection point for your trailer.
• Trailer Harness: A 7-pin connector is crucial for providing power to the trailer's lights (running lights, turn signals, brake lights) and often includes a circuit for charging the trailer's battery and/or for an electric trailer brake controller.
• Transmission Cooler (sometimes integrated): While not always a standalone, externally mounted unit, Honda engineers the vehicle and its transmission to handle the increased load when properly equipped, often implying enhanced cooling capabilities within the transmission system for the higher towing capacity. It's vital to ensure your AWD Pilot has the full Honda towing package to safely achieve the 5,000 lbs rating, as adequate transmission cooling is a key component for longevity.

It's important to note that an integrated trailer brake controller and trailer sway control are typically not standard components of the Honda Genuine Accessory Towing Package for the 2016 Pilot. An aftermarket proportional brake controller would be required for trailers with electric brakes, and trailer sway control systems are often factory integrated into the vehicle's stability control system, or available as aftermarket add-ons.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

The 2016 Honda Pilot is not designed for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of hitches are generally found on heavy-duty pickup trucks and require a much higher towing and payload capacity than what a mid-size SUV like the Pilot offers.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For the 2016 Honda Pilot, a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) is generally recommended and often required for trailers approaching the upper limits of its towing capacity, especially those with a gross trailer weight (GTW) exceeding 3,500 lbs. A WDH helps distribute the trailer's tongue weight more evenly across all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer, promoting a more level ride and improved stability, handling, and braking performance.

• When to use: If your trailer's tongue weight is significant (typically over 350 lbs) or if the rear of your Pilot sags noticeably when the trailer is hitched, a WDH is highly advisable.
• Benefits: Reduces sag, improves steering response, enhances braking, and reduces stress on the tow vehicle's chassis.

Always consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations on WDH use and setup, as improper adjustment can create new handling issues.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

Towing with your 2016 Honda Pilot can be a smooth experience with the right preparation and practices:

• Verify Capacities: Always check the sticker on your driver's side door jamb for the exact payload and GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of your specific vehicle. Ensure your trailer's loaded weight and tongue weight never exceed these limits.
• Load Distribution: Load your trailer carefully. Approximately 60% of the cargo weight should be in the front half of the trailer, aiming for a tongue weight that is 10-15% of the total trailer weight. This helps prevent sway.
• Tire Pressure: Inflate your Pilot's tires to the maximum recommended pressure for towing, as indicated in your owner's manual or on the door jamb sticker. Also, ensure your trailer tires are properly inflated.
• Brake Controller: For trailers with electric brakes, invest in and properly install a proportional aftermarket trailer brake controller. This allows you to apply the trailer's brakes independently and proportionally to your Pilot's brakes, significantly improving stopping power and safety.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Before every tow, check all lights (on both vehicle and trailer), brake connections, hitch connection, safety chains, and tire pressure.
• Drive Conservatively: Allow for increased stopping distances, accelerate gradually, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Maintain a safe speed, especially on highways and during turns.
• Regular Maintenance: Ensure your Pilot is in top mechanical condition, with particular attention to brakes, transmission fluid, and engine coolant, especially before a long trip or frequent towing.

Common towing-related issues

While the 2016 Honda Pilot is capable of towing, improper use can lead to issues:

• Transmission Overheating: This is a common concern when towing heavy loads, especially without the proper towing package (including adequate cooling). Signs include warning lights, loss of power, or unusual shifting. Ensure your vehicle has the necessary cooling capacity.
• Reduced Braking Performance: The added weight of a trailer significantly increases stopping distances. Over-reliance on the Pilot's brakes without a trailer brake controller can lead to premature wear and fading.
• Trailer Sway: Improper tongue weight (too light), incorrect tire pressure, or strong crosswinds can cause the trailer to sway, leading to a dangerous situation. A weight distribution hitch and sway control device can help mitigate this.
• Suspension Sag: Heavy tongue weight can cause the rear of the Pilot to sag, affecting handling, headlight aim, and tire wear. A WDH is essential to counteract this.
• Overloading: Exceeding any of the vehicle's ratings (max tow, payload, GVWR, GCWR) is not only illegal in many places but extremely dangerous and can cause severe damage to your vehicle.

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