Hi guys, I'm a, hopefully, a future pilot owner. I need some help uncovering the mystery of the tow package. I want to buy a 2015 pilot. Research show the tow package was an option and can tow up to 4500 pounds. The problem I'm facing is how to confirm that a car has a proper tow package that includes the transmission cooler.

I've called several Hondas and they don't know. Even worse Honda and several mechanics ive called don't even sell the transmission cooler aftermarket meaning my only options seems to be to get a pilot with a factory tow package.

Is there some way to verify a car has this tow package installed???

thanks!

 

I just purchased a 2022 Honda Pilot, and had a 5000 lbs Honda hitch installed by the dealer (it didn't come from the factor with a receiver hitch). The 5000 lbs hitch installed by the dealer comes with a transmission cooler. So short answer is, if it was installed by a Honda dealer and is Honda OEM equipment, it like has the transmission cooler. If it is an after market hitch, it probably doesn't. Only way to be sure is to have a mechanic verify the vehicle has the transmission cooler before you purchase it.

 

The 2022 Pilot can tow 3500 without the transmission cooler and the Honda hitch is easily installed in your driveway. Though, I would recommend the cooler for towing anything. I didn't get it since I only use it for a bike rack.

 

I ordered a 2025 Pilot Trailsport with the tow package; upon delivery the vehicle had a receiver hitch and a "Sticker" at the hitch reading 5000 pound towing capacity but NO wiring harness. I questioned the lack of a wiring harness and the dealership indicated that they would order on and install. So I was started digging deeper and found that it did not have an external transmission cooler. The Honda mechanic said that it should have one even though some say the ten speed transmission is already rated for 5000 pound towing. TWO conditions will destroy engines and transmissions they are heat and vibration. Vibration will cause heat and heat will cause wear and vibration. The single best thing a driver can driver can do is keep the oil fresh and clean, (Oil and Filter Changes) and that includes your transmission fluid. I will have the transmission cooler installed along with the wiring harness. I have had seventeen vehicles in my lifetime, currently I have two heavy duty Ford Trucks and three Hondas: Ridgeline, Passport and the 2025 Pilot. I have NEVER had ANY major problems with any of my Hondas including two that I previously had an Element and another Ridgeline. I have been around heavy equipment all my life and Honda clearly pay attention to detail and builds great equipment.

 

The most reliable way I’ve found to confirm a factory tow package on a 2015 Pilot is to check the VIN build sheet. Honda dealers can pull it up — you just need to ask them for the “VIN equipment list” or “factory installed options.” If the tow package was installed from the factory, it’ll show up there clearly.