The spare tire on most Honda Pilot models is stored under the rear cargo floor and accessed by lifting the floor panel to reveal the wheel and tools. Some trims may instead carry a tire repair kit in a side compartment. Check your owner’s manual for your exact year and trim to confirm which setup you have.
Where the spare is stored
In the majority of Pilots, the spare lives in a storage well beneath the cargo floor in the rear hatch area. If your vehicle uses a repair kit instead of a spare, the kit is typically located in the same cargo area or in a nearby side compartment.
Under-floor spare in most trims
Access begins from the rear cargo area. You’ll lift or remove the floor panel to reach the spare wheel, jack, and lug wrench stored in the well.
- Park on level ground and engage the parking brake. If you’re on a roadside, turn on hazard lights.
- Open the rear hatch and lift the cargo floor cover by grabbing the edge handle or strap.
- Locate the spare wheel in the storage well. Loosen the fastener securing the spare if needed (often a center bolt or wing nut) using the included tool or lug wrench.
- Remove the spare wheel along with the accompanying jack and lug wrench from their holders.
- Place the spare wheel within reach and inspect its condition and tire pressure if possible.
- Return any displaced tools to their slots after you’re done inspecting the spare and preparing for replacement.
The spare is intended for temporary use, so plan to replace it with a full-size tire as soon as you can reach a service facility.
With the under-floor spare in hand, you’re ready to mount it on the vehicle following the correct jacking procedure and lug-nut torque specifications.
Models with a tire repair kit instead of a spare
Some Pilot trims forego a full spare in favor of a tire repair kit and inflator. The kit is usually stored in a side pocket within the cargo area or beneath a panel. It’s designed for temporary fixes and short-distance driving to reach a repair shop.
- Ensure the vehicle is safely parked, with hazard lights on and the parking brake engaged.
- Open the cargo area and locate the repair kit/inflator, typically in a side storage pocket or under a panel.
- Follow the kit’s instructions to seal and inflate the damaged tire. This often involves attaching the nozzle to the valve stem and activating the inflator.
- Check the repaired tire’s pressure with a gauge and drive cautiously to a tire shop for a professional repair or replacement.
Use of a tire repair kit is temporary; never rely on it for long-distance or high-speed driving. Have the tire inspected and replaced as soon as possible.
Safety and practical tips
Changing a tire or using a repair kit should be approached with safety in mind. The following tips help reduce risk when you’re stranded or performing routine checks.
- Move the vehicle to a safe, level location away from traffic and engage the parking brake. Turn on hazard lights if you’re roadside.
- Use wheel chocks or heavy objects to prevent the vehicle from rolling if available.
- Never place yourself under the vehicle when it’s supported only by a jack. Use jack stands if you have them.
- Loosen lug nuts slightly before raising the vehicle, then fully tighten them in a crisscross pattern after lowering the car to the ground.
- Ensure the spare or repaired tire is properly inflated and that all tools are stowed securely after use.
Following these precautions helps prevent injuries and ensures you can continue traveling safely until a proper tire replacement is performed.
Summary
Accessing the Honda Pilot’s spare tire typically involves lifting the rear cargo floor to reach a stored spare wheel, jack, and lug wrench. If your model uses a tire repair kit instead of a spare, locate and follow the kit’s instructions for temporary repair. Always consult your owner’s manual for your exact year and trim, as configurations can vary. In all cases, drive only to a safe location and to a tire shop for a permanent replacement or repair.