2020 Honda Pilot Serpentine Belt Routing & Replacement Guide

As an ASE-certified master technician, I know that keeping up with regular maintenance is the best way to keep your 2020 Honda Pilot running smoothly. The serpentine belt (also known as the drive belt) is a critical component that powers your vehicle's accessories. If it fails, you could lose your alternator, air conditioning, and engine cooling capabilities in an instant.

Here is your comprehensive guide to the serpentine belt on the 2020 Honda Pilot (3.5L V6), including part numbers, routing instructions, and replacement steps.

Quick Answer

• Belt Length: 82.2 inches
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: Honda 31110-RLV-A11 (or 31110-RLV-A12)
• Aftermarket Cross-References: Gates K060822, Dayco 5060823, Continental Elite 4060822
• Auto-Tensioner Part Number: Honda 31170-RLV-A11 (or Gates 39316)
• Idler Pulley Part Number: Honda 31190-RCA-A02 (or Gates 36173)

Note: The 2020 Honda Pilot is equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine. Always verify your specific trim level with your parts supplier to ensure exact fitment.

Belt Routing

Because we cannot render a physical image here, it is crucial to understand the exact path the belt takes around the pulleys. Pro-Tip: Always take a clear photograph of your existing belt routing with your smartphone before you remove it!

For the standard Honda V6 accessory drive setup, follow this general routing path:

1. Start by looping the ribbed side of the belt around the bottom of the Crankshaft Pulley.
2. Route it under and around the A/C Compressor.
3. Bring the smooth side of the belt up and over the Idler Pulley.
4. Wrap the ribbed side around the Alternator.
5. Pass it around the Power Steering Pump (Note: Depending on your specific model and if it retains hydraulic components vs. EPS, follow the factory pulley layout).
6. Route the smooth back of the belt across the Water Pump pulley.
7. Finally, slip the belt over the Auto-Tensioner.

(Remember: Ribbed sides of the belt always touch grooved pulleys, while the smooth side of the belt touches smooth pulleys like the idler and water pump).

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on a 2020 Honda Pilot is a manageable DIY job if you have the right tools and a bit of patience.

Tools Needed:

• Serpentine belt tool or a long 3/8" drive breaker bar
• Safety glasses and gloves
• A flashlight

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Locate the Tensioner: Open the hood and locate the auto-tensioner on the passenger side of the engine block.
2. Relieve Tension: Insert your 3/8" breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into the square slot on the tensioner arm. Rotate the tensioner counterclockwise (towards the firewall) to relieve tension on the belt.
3. Remove the Old Belt: While holding the tensioner back, carefully slide the old belt off the closest, easiest pulley (usually the alternator or idler pulley). Slowly release the tensioner back to its resting position.
4. Route the New Belt: Feed the new belt down into the engine bay. Follow your reference photo or the routing description above, leaving the tensioner pulley for last.
5. Install the New Belt: Rotate the tensioner counterclockwise again. Slip the final loop of the belt over the tensioner pulley.
6. Verify Seating: Double-check every pulley with your flashlight. Ensure the belt ribs are perfectly seated in the pulley grooves and not hanging off the edge.
7. Test Run: Start the engine and let it idle for a minute. Watch the belt to ensure it is running smoothly without any wobbling or squealing.

Replacement Interval

Honda does not list a strict mileage interval for the serpentine belt on the 2020 Pilot, but rather relies on the Maintenance Minder system (Sub-code 2). However, as a rule of thumb in the shop, I recommend thoroughly inspecting the belt every 60,000 miles and replacing it between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, or every 5 to 7 years.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Don't wait for the belt to snap on the highway. Look out for these warning signs:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: A persistent squeal, especially on startup or when turning on the A/C, usually indicates a stretched belt or a weak tensioner spring.
• Visible Cracks or Fraying: Modern EPDM belts don't crack as much as older neoprene belts, but they do lose rib material. If you see deep cracks, missing chunks, or frayed edges, replace the belt immediately.
• Battery Warning Light: If the belt is slipping, the alternator cannot charge the battery properly.
• Heavy Steering or Overheating: A broken or heavily slipping belt will stop driving the accessory pulleys, leading to a sudden loss of cooling and electrical power.

If you don't feel comfortable tackling this repair yourself, don't worry. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.