To change the clock on a Honda Pilot, use the infotainment touchscreen Settings menu for most newer models, or a dedicated clock control on older setups. In some trims, the system auto-syncs with GPS time, which can override manual changes.
Using the Honda Display Audio touchscreen (most newer Pilots)
This method covers vehicles equipped with the Display Audio touchscreen, which includes most Pilots from around 2016 onward. Ensure the ignition or accessory power is on before attempting to change the time.
- Turn on the ignition or set the ignition to ACCESSORY mode to wake the infotainment system.
- From the home screen, tap Settings (gear icon) or System, then select Clock or Time.
- Choose your preferred time format (12-hour or 24-hour) if the option is available.
- Set the hour and minute using the on-screen controls or the appropriate dial/knob, then confirm to save by exiting the menu or tapping Done/OK.
- Return to the Home screen. The clock should display the new time. If GPS time is enabled, the display may update automatically while GPS signals are available.
Notes: If the clock doesn’t change, double-check that you’re in the correct Clock/Time menu and that GPS time is not forcing automatic updates. Some updates or navigation settings can affect how time is displayed.
Tips and troubleshooting for touchscreen setups
If your screen is slow to respond or you can’t locate Clock in Settings, try returning to the Home screen and using the available Help or About sections to locate Clock settings, or consult the owner’s manual for your exact model year and trim.
Manual clock adjustment on older Pilots or non-touchscreen setups
Some older Honda Pilot models or certain trims feature a dedicated Clock button near the radio or climate controls. The steps below describe how to adjust time using that physical control.
- Turn on the ignition or set the car to ACC/PARK as required to access the clock controls.
- Press and hold the CLOCK button until the digits on the display begin to flash. If your model requires a single press, press the CLOCK button once to initiate time setting.
- Use the tuning knob, arrow buttons, or +/- controls to adjust the hours first. Then switch to minutes by pressing CLOCK again or by cycling through the fields, depending on the model.
- Once the desired time is set, press CLOCK again to save, or simply wait a moment for the flashing to stop and the new time to be stored.
- Exit the clock setting screen and continue driving. If GPS time is available, the system may still align with GPS time when a signal is present.
Note: On some vehicles, the clock may reset if the battery is disconnected or if certain diagnostic events occur. If you notice repeated resets, have the system checked by a Honda service technician.
Common issues and additional considerations
If you experience persistent problems changing the clock—such as the time not sticking or the display reverting to GPS time—check for software updates for your infotainment system, and review GPS time settings. In some cases, updating the vehicle’s firmware or resetting the infotainment system can resolve time-sync behavior.
Summary
Most Honda Pilot owners will change the clock via the Display Audio touchscreen by navigating to Settings and Clock. If you drive an older Pilot with a dedicated Clock button, use that control along with the tuning knob to adjust hours and minutes. Be aware that GPS time may override manual settings on some models, and a firmware update or manual reset can help resolve persistent issues.