FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Honda/Pilot/Third Generation (2016-present)/why does my Honda Pilot hesitate when I press the gas pedal

why does my Honda Pilot hesitate when I press the gas pedal

Honda Pilot Third Generation (2016-present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
567 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix hesitation issues in your Honda Pilot. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Relieve fuel system pressure before servicing the fuel system components.

Symptoms

  • •Engine hesitates or stutters upon acceleration
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Possible rough idle when stationary
  • •Increased engine RPM without corresponding vehicle speed increase

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify any stored trouble codes.
  2. 2Inspect the fuel system for proper pressure and any signs of leaks.
  3. 3Check the air filter for clogs or restrictions that could affect airflow.
  4. 4Inspect ignition components such as spark plugs and ignition coils for wear or damage.
  5. 5Evaluate transmission fluid levels and condition; check for any signs of slipping.
  6. 6Test the throttle position sensor for proper voltage output during operation.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather all tools and parts required for the repair.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety during electrical component inspection.
  • Allow the engine to cool before working on any components.

2. Fuel System Inspection

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge, line wrenches, safety glasses
  • Check fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge. Compare readings to manufacturer specifications.
  • If pressure is low, inspect the fuel pump and fuel filter for clogs or failure.
  • Replace the fuel filter if it is found to be clogged.
  • If necessary, replace the fuel pump, ensuring to relieve fuel system pressure before removal.

3. Ignition System Repair

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, multimeter
  • Remove the engine cover if applicable, to access the ignition components.
  • Inspect spark plugs for wear; replace if they are worn or fouled.
  • Check ignition coils using a multimeter to ensure they are within specifications. Replace any faulty coils.
  • Reassemble components and ensure all connections are tight.

4. Throttle Position Sensor Adjustment

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, screwdriver
  • Locate the throttle position sensor (TPS) and disconnect the connector.
  • Use a multimeter to test the sensor's output voltage while manually moving the throttle.
  • If the voltage does not change smoothly or is out of specification, replace the TPS.
  • Reconnect the connector and reset any stored trouble codes.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Multimeter
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Line wrenches
  • Screwdriver

Parts Required

  • Fuel filter
  • Fuel pump (if diagnosed as faulty)
  • Spark plugs
  • Ignition coils (if diagnosed as faulty)
  • Throttle position sensor (if diagnosed as faulty)

Additional Information

Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

7 items

Parts

5 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) stability control light is on, what’s the issue?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the stability control light issue in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repa...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Stability control light (VSA) is illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Possible loss of traction in slippery conditions
    • +{count} more
  2. my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) steering feels loose what should I check

    Learn how to diagnose and fix loose steering in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructio...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Loose or vague steering feel
    • •Increased steering play
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix the SRS system warning light on Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the SRS warning light issue in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with tools and safety tips.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •SRS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Possible intermittent warning lights for seat belts or airbags
    • +{count} more
  4. my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) rear brakes squeak, what could be wrong?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix squeaking rear brakes on Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair ins...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Squeaking noise when applying brakes
    • •Increased brake pedal travel
    • +{count} more
  5. how to fix Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) P0171 system too lean code

    P0171

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0171 engine too lean condition in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or stalling
    • +{count} more
  6. how to diagnose safety system codes B-codes on Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix safety system B-codes in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair ins...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Seat belt reminder chime or light malfunctioning
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation