The Honda Pilot’s towing package is available on models equipped with Honda’s factory Tow Package, typically on mid- to high-trim levels, and it can allow towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Availability varies by model year and trim, so checking the window sticker or asking a dealer is the most reliable way to confirm.
Historically, the Tow Package has evolved across generations. In the earlier years (2009–2015), the Tow Package was optional on EX-L and Touring trims and generally supported up to about 4,500 pounds. In the current generation (2016–present), the Tow Package is offered on most EX-level trims and above, enabling up to 5,000 pounds of towing with the necessary hitch, wiring, and cooling upgrades.
Generations and Tow Package Availability
Trims and years with towing package availability vary by generation. The list below highlights typical configurations and towing ratings you can expect when the Tow Package is installed.
2009–2015: Second generation Pilot
During this generation, the Tow Package was optional on higher trims and allowed a towing capacity around 4,500 pounds when equipped with the necessary cooling and wiring components.
- EX-L and Touring trims commonly offered the Tow Package as an upgrade.
- Includes a Class III hitch, trailer wiring, and engine/transmission cooling components.
- With the Tow Package, towing capacity generally listed around 4,500 lbs.
In this span, buyers who needed to tow should confirm the exact rating on the specific vehicle and ensure the proper cooling components are installed.
2016–Present: Fourth generation Pilot
For the current generation, the Tow Package is widely available on EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite trims. When properly equipped, these Pilots can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The base LX trim typically requires the Tow Package to reach higher towing limits.
- EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite trims commonly offer the Tow Package as an option or standard in some years.
- Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs with the Tow Package and proper equipment.
- Without the Tow Package, towing capacity is typically lower (often around 3,500 lbs).
For buyers aiming to tow near the 5,000-pound limit, selecting EX or higher and adding the Tow Package is the standard path in this generation.
What the Tow Package Includes
When you opt for Honda’s Tow Package, several components are added or upgraded to support towing performance and reliability.
- Class III hitch and trailer wiring harness
- Engine oil cooler
- Transmission cooler
- Heavy-duty radiator (in some years/models)
- Tow/Haul-ready calibration and related hardware on the transmission system
These components work together to help the Pilot tow safely, maintain engine and transmission temperatures, and provide reliable trailer electrical connections.
How to Verify If Your Pilot Has the Tow Package
If you’re unsure whether a specific Pilot includes the Tow Package, use these checks to verify.
- Check the Monroney window sticker or the vehicle’s original build documentation for “Tow Package” or “Trailer Tow.”
- Inspect for a visible Class III hitch receiver and a trailer wiring harness (often a 4- or 7-pin connector).
- Look for engine oil cooler and transmission cooler components in the engine bay or undercarriage.
- Ask a dealer with the VIN to pull the factory specifications and confirm towing capacity.
If any of these elements are missing, the vehicle may not have the Tow Package or may be limited to a lower towing capacity.
Summary
In short, the Tow Package is available on mid- to high-trim Honda Pilots across the current generation (2016–present) and was available on higher trims in the 2009–2015 generation. To tow up to 5,000 pounds, you’ll want a Pilot with the Tow Package on EX or higher and confirm the exact specifications for your model year. Always verify the specific build and towing rating for the vehicle you’re considering, as equipment and ratings can vary by year and trim.