2017 Honda Pilot Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

Transmission gear ratios

The 2017 Honda Pilot was offered with two automatic transmission options, depending on the trim level: a 6-speed automatic and a 9-speed automatic.

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Standard on LX, EX, EX-L)

9-Speed Automatic Transmission (Standard on Touring, Elite)

Available axle ratios

The 2017 Honda Pilot utilizes a single final drive ratio across all trims and transmission options. This means regardless of whether you have the 6-speed or 9-speed automatic, or which trim level your Pilot is, the axle ratio remains consistent.

How to identify your axle ratio

Unlike domestic trucks and SUVs that often provide specific RPO codes or axle tags for different ratios, the 2017 Honda Pilot, with its consistent 4.250 final drive ratio, does not typically require owners to "identify" their axle ratio in the same way. The information is generally found within the vehicle's specifications rather than on a separate label. Honda vehicles generally do not use RPO stickers on the door jamb for differentiating axle ratios, as differentiation is often tied to the transmission and engine pairing, not a separate axle code.

If you need to confirm the final drive ratio for your specific vehicle, the most reliable source would be:

• Owner's Manual: The vehicle's owner's manual often lists detailed specifications, including the final drive ratio.
• Honda Dealership: A Honda dealership can provide definitive specifications for your vehicle using the VIN.
• Online VIN Decoder: Several online VIN decoder tools can provide factory specifications, though confirming with official Honda sources is always recommended.

Towing vs MPG impact

The choice of axle ratio has a significant impact on a vehicle's performance characteristics, primarily affecting towing capability and fuel economy. Generally:

• Numerically Lower Axle Ratio (e.g., 3.31, 3.55): A numerically lower ratio means the engine doesn't have to rev as high to achieve a given road speed. This typically results in better fuel economy on the highway, as the engine is operating at lower RPMs. However, it also means less mechanical advantage for accelerating from a stop and for towing heavy loads, making the vehicle feel less powerful with a trailer.

• Numerically Higher Axle Ratio (e.g., 3.73, 4.10, 4.250): A numerically higher ratio (like the 4.250 in the Pilot) provides more mechanical advantage, allowing the engine to put more torque to the wheels. This is beneficial for towing and accelerating quickly, as the engine can deliver more power to move heavy loads with less strain. The trade-off is often reduced fuel economy, especially at highway speeds, because the engine needs to rev higher to maintain speed.

The 2017 Honda Pilot's single final drive ratio of 4.250 is chosen by Honda to provide a balanced approach, offering a good compromise between everyday driving performance, acceleration, and towing capability for a family SUV, while still maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency, especially when paired with the 9-speed transmission's wider gear spread.

Common issues

For the 2017 Honda Pilot, specific widespread "common issues" directly related to the rear differential or axle ratios are not as frequently reported as they might be in heavy-duty truck applications with various axle options. The integrated and consistent nature of the Pilot's drivetrain tends to lead to fewer ratio-specific problems. However, general driveline components can experience wear over time.

• Rear Differential Whine/Noise: While not limited to the Pilot, any differential can develop a whine or hum due to worn gears (ring and pinion), improper backlash, or worn bearings. This is often more noticeable at certain speeds or under specific load conditions.
• Fluid Leaks: Seals on the differential (pinion seal, axle shaft seals) can eventually wear out, leading to fluid leaks. Regular fluid checks can help identify this early.
• Carrier Bearing Wear: The bearings that support the differential carrier within the housing can wear, leading to noise, vibration, or increased play in the driveline. This can sometimes be exacerbated by heavy towing or off-road use, though the Pilot is not typically used for extreme applications.

If you experience any unusual noises, vibrations, or fluid leaks from your rear differential, it's important to have it inspected by a qualified technician promptly to prevent further damage.

Find a driveline shop on Repairius.