The spare tire is stored under the rear cargo floor in a recessed well, accessed by lifting the cargo floor panel.
In most Honda Pilot models, the underfloor spare lives in this well at the rear of the cargo area, with the jack and lug wrench stored alongside. Accessing it requires opening the tailgate, lifting the floor panel, and removing the retaining hardware to slide the spare out. The exact setup can vary slightly by trim and year, but the general location remains the same.
Location in the vehicle
The spare tire resides in an underfloor storage area within the rear cargo compartment. It is tucked beneath a removable floor panel behind the third-row seat region, and is secured with a strap or retainer to keep it in place while driving.
To reach it, you’ll typically have to open the tailgate, lift or remove the cargo floor panel, and unfasten the spare from its retainer before sliding it out of the well. Tools such as the jack and lug wrench are usually kept in the same underfloor area or a nearby storage bag.
Steps below outline the general procedure you would follow in most Pilots, though exact details can vary by year and trim.
Below are the typical steps to locate and remove the spare tire from the underfloor storage in the rear cargo area.
- Open the tailgate or rear hatch to access the cargo area.
- Remove the cargo floor mat or cover to expose the underfloor panel.
- Lift or remove the floor panel to reveal the spare tire well.
- Unfasten the spare’s retaining strap or bolt and slide the spare out of the well.
- Retrieve the jack and lug wrench stored with or near the spare, then prepare to change the tire.
Following these steps will allow you to access and remove the spare tire quickly; remember to check the spare’s air pressure and the condition of the tread before using it.
Tools and spare kit
The spare kit in the Honda Pilot typically includes a jack and a lug wrench, with the exact contents varying by year or trim. Here’s what you can expect to find with the spare in most models:
- Spare tire (often a space-saver or compact spare, depending on year/trim)
- Jack (type may be a scissor jack or a small floor jack)
- Lug wrench or wheel nut wrench
- Owner’s manual or quick-reference card for tire changes
Keep the spare and tools secured and periodically check their condition, especially before long trips. If the spare is missing or damaged, contact a Honda dealer for replacement or service guidance.
Variations by model year
Current generation and recent models
In current and recent Honda Pilot models, the spare tire continues to reside under the rear cargo floor, accessible by lifting the floor panel in the cargo area; tools are typically stored with it in the same compartment.
Earlier generations
Earlier Pilots also featured an underfloor spare in the rear cargo area, though the exact configuration (spare size, bag design, or placement) can vary by trim. The general approach remains consistent: open the cargo area, lift the floor, and remove the spare from its well, with the jack and lug wrench stored nearby.
If you are unsure about the exact location for your specific model or year, consult the owner's manual or contact a Honda service representative for precise instructions.
Summary
The spare tire in a Honda Pilot is stored in an underfloor well in the rear cargo area, accessed by lifting the cargo floor panel. Tools such as the jack and lug wrench are kept with the spare, and the precise setup can vary slightly by year or trim. Always verify the location and condition of the spare before you need it, and refer to the manual for model-specific details.