Transmission assemblies are among the most important systems inside today’s passenger vehicles. They’re also the most expensive to repair or replace if something goes wrong. Understanding your 2003 Honda Pilot transmission can help you better care for it. Keep reading to learn more about this critical system plus how to detect common transmission problems.
What Does a Transmission Do?
Your Honda Pilot’s engine generates the needed power to move its wheels. But the transmission itself is what helps channel that power to the wheels. It regulates how and when power flows to the wheels. Modern vehicles use one of two transmission styles: manual and automatic.
Today’s vehicle transmissions use multiple gears. These are shorthand for different gear ratios, each designed for an optimal combination of speed and power. For instance, you might use second gear on slick roads and third gear while trying to climb a hill. Most vehicles have a minimum of five gears, but some have as many as nine. Nearly all are equipped with an overdrive gear for speeds at or above 40 MPH.
Vehicles were first made with manual transmission systems. They require the driver to shift between gears as road conditions change. Power from the transmission to the wheels must be interrupted to change gears, and that’s where the clutch comes in. Engaging the clutch cuts power to the wheels so gears can be shifted safely and smoothly.
Automatic transmissions work on a similar principle, but they do all the work for you. Instead of you manually shifting gears, they use hydraulic fluid, pumps, turbines and solenoids to activate gear changes as needed. You only need to your vehicle into drive gear — the transmission does the rest.
Signs of Failing Automatic Transmission
Transmission failure is a huge problem. You may notice common symptoms such as burning odors, gears slipping or clunking, grinding and whining noises. The transmission may be slow to shift or it may not shift at all. These issues can result from a number of factors:
- Chronically low transmission fluid
- Faulty transmission oil cooler
- Damaged or failing torque converter
- Malfunctioning transmission solenoids
Some issues involving individual transmission parts aren’t as severe, but they can still be problematic. Your gear indicator may not show the correct gear that your vehicle’s in. This usually results from a faulty shifter cable. Even so, you still must rectify the problem as soon as possible. With a bad cable, your Honda Pilot may start in a gear other than park — or it may not go into gear at all.
Shopping for Your Transmission Parts
You will likely pay between $2,000 and $3,200 for a new Honda Pilot transmission. However, keep in mind that this cost is for the parts alone and does not include labor. If the problem lies with individual vehicle drivetrain accessories and parts, you’ll pay less for replacements. For example, many transmission torque converters for your 2003 Honda Pilot cost under $300. You can often find lower prices and high-quality parts at an aftermarket auto components retailer. Choose a reputable dealer with experts on staff. They can answer your questions and help you find what you need.
