Yes. The 2017 Honda Pilot uses a 9-speed automatic transmission that includes a serviceable transmission filter inside the oil pan. When you perform a full transmission service (pan drop and fluid change), the filter is typically replaced along with new ATF.
Overview of the 2017 Pilot’s transmission
The 2017 Pilot pairs a 3.5-liter V6 engine with Honda’s 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT). This setup aims for smooth shifting and adequate performance for a mid-size SUV. Maintenance for this transmission centers on regular automatic transmission fluid (ATF) changes and attention to the filter during pan-down services.
Is there a transmission filter in the 2017 Pilot?
Yes. The 9AT in the Pilot includes a transmission filter located inside the transmission oil pan. Replacing the filter is typically part of a pan-down ATF service, with the old fluid drained before removing the pan.
Where is the filter located and how is it serviced?
The filter sits inside the transmission oil pan, near the valve body. To service it, technicians commonly perform a pan-down or full transmission service: drain ATF, remove the pan to access the filter, replace the filter, clean the pan and magnets, reinstall the pan with a new gasket, and refill with the correct ATF (Honda DW-1) to the proper level.
Note: Transmission service requires careful procedure and accurate torque and fluid specifications. If you’re not experienced with transmission work, have a qualified technician perform the service.
Steps summarized for reference:
- Prepare the vehicle and ensure the engine is cool; raise the vehicle and position it on a level surface.
- Drain the transmission fluid from the pan drain plug and allow it to completely drain.
- Remove the transmission pan to access the filter; remove and replace the filter, then clean the magnet and gasket surfaces.
- Install a new pan gasket, reinstall the pan, and refill with the correct Honda ATF (DW-1) to the proper level.
Because exact steps can vary by model year and transmission revision, consult a service manual or a professional technician for your specific vehicle.
Maintenance considerations
Choosing the right ATF and sticking to recommended service intervals helps maximize longevity of the 9AT in the Pilot. The filter is a serviceable component during pan-down maintenance, and many owners follow the factory guidance to replace the filter during servicing.
- ATF type: Honda DW-1 is the commonly recommended fluid for the Pilot’s 9AT.
- Service approach: A pan-down ATF change with filter replacement is common at intervals around 60,000 miles for normal driving, with more frequent changes in severe conditions.
- Filter replacement: The filter is typically replaced during a pan-down service; it is not a one-time “lifetime” part.
Always have a trained technician perform transmission work to ensure proper sealing and fluid level, which are critical for reliability.
Summary
Yes—the 2017 Honda Pilot’s 9-speed automatic includes a serviceable transmission filter housed inside the oil pan. A proper service entails draining and replacing the ATF, dropping the pan to replace the filter, and refilling with Honda DW-1 ATF. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and consult a Honda technician for precise guidance.