In short, the 2017 Honda Pilot uses front MacPherson struts and rear shock absorbers — i.e., struts in the front and shocks in the rear.
Suspension layout of the 2017 Honda Pilot
This article explains how the Pilot’s suspension is configured, what that means for ride quality, and how to tell which components wear when you’re shopping for replacements.
Front suspension: MacPherson struts
The front of the 2017 Pilot utilizes a MacPherson strut design. In this setup, the spring and the damper (shock) are combined into a single strut assembly mounted at the wheel hub, with a simple upper mount to the vehicle body. This is a common arrangement for modern SUVs because it saves space and simplifies assembly.
Key characteristics of the front strut design:
- Integrated strut assembly that combines spring and damper.
- Typically replaced as a complete unit when worn or leaking.
- Provides straightforward service access and reliable handling characteristics.
- Front struts contribute significantly to steering feel and ride quality.
In summary, the Pilot’s front suspension uses struts rather than a separate coil-spring/shock arrangement at each front corner.
Rear suspension: multi-link with shocks
At the rear, the Pilot uses an independent multi-link suspension with coil springs and separate shock absorbers (dampers). This arrangement allows the rear wheels to move independently for better ride comfort and stability, especially when the vehicle is loaded or navigating uneven surfaces.
Key characteristics of the rear shock setup:
- Independent multi-link rear suspension with coil springs.
- Separate rear shocks (dampers) handle damping, distinct from the springs.
- Typically enhances ride quality and handling over rough pavement and uneven loads.
- Rear shocks are common wear items and may be replaced individually if needed.
In summary, the Pilot’s rear suspension features separate dampers, not struts, at the rear wheels.
What this means for ownership and maintenance
Understanding which components are struts versus shocks helps with maintenance planning, replacement parts, and budgeting. Front-end work will typically involve the front strut assemblies, while the rear maintenance aligns with the rear shocks and related components.
Summary
The 2017 Honda Pilot uses front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link suspension with separate shock absorbers. So, it has struts in the front and shocks in the rear—the common configuration for a midsize SUV that emphasizes a balanced ride and handling.