The spare tire on a 2006 Honda Pilot is stored under the rear cargo floor and is lowered with a built-in hoist that you operate with a crank handle. Open the cargo floor, attach the crank, and turn to unwind the cable until the tire rests on the ground, then slide it out.
What you’ll find and what you’ll need
In this model year, the spare is secured under the rear cargo floor with a cable hoist. The tool kit in the cargo area includes a crank or wheel-brace that attaches to the hoist. If the crank isn’t obvious, check the spare tire kit area or the side pockets of the cargo floor for the handle.
Before you begin, make sure the vehicle is on level ground, the parking brake is set, and you have gloves handy to protect your hands while handling the tire and tools.
Lowering the spare: Step-by-step
This list explains how to safely lower the spare tire using the hoist crank and cable mechanism.
- Open the rear hatch and lift the floor panel in the cargo area to expose the spare and the hoist.
- Remove any cover or securing strap that holds the spare or hoist in place, if present.
- Find the hoist crank in your tool kit and attach it to the square drive or fastened end on the cable winch.
- Turn the crank counterclockwise to unwind the cable. Do this slowly and evenly, watching the spare descend.
- Continue until the spare tire is fully lowered and the cable slackens enough for you to pull the tire out from under the vehicle.
- Slide the spare tire out onto the ground, keeping your footing stable and ensuring no one nearby is in the way.
After lowering, inspect the tire and hardware to ensure nothing is damaged and that you have enough space to work safely. If you encounter resistance or the tire won’t lower, stop and re-check that the floor panel is fully opened and nothing is jammed in the hoist.
With the spare on the ground, you’re ready to change the tire or prepare the spare for installation as needed.
Raising the spare back up and stowing it
When you’re ready to reinstall the spare, reverse the process by guiding the tire back into position and winding the cable back up with the crank.
- Place the spare tire back under the vehicle in the correct orientation and align it with the hoist.
- Attach the crank to the hoist drive and turn clockwise to wind the cable, pulling the spare up toward the floor.
- Continue until the spare is snug against the floor panel and the hoist cable is taut, then secure any covers or straps that hold the spare in place.
- Close the floor panel and ensure the cargo area is clear before closing the hatch.
Note: If you have a donut spare, check its inflation pressure and replace it with the proper lug wrench when you’re done, then drive carefully to a repair shop to service the full-size tire as needed.
Tips and troubleshooting
If the spare doesn’t lower easily, verify that the floor panel is fully opened, the crank is firmly attached, and there’s no debris in the hoist mechanism. Don’t force the crank—panels and cables can be damaged. If the hoist seems stuck or the tire won’t lower after several attempts, consult the owner’s manual or contact a Honda technician for assistance.
Summary
The spare tire lowering process on a 2006 Honda Pilot is a straightforward use of a cable hoist under the rear cargo floor. By opening the floor panel, attaching the crank, and turning counterclockwise, you can lower the spare safely and remove it for use. When finished, reverse the steps to raise and stow the spare securely. Always exercise caution and ensure the vehicle is stable and the area is clear before handling the tire.