Last Updated on May 1, 2023 by Victor A
The Honda Pilot is a versatile and reliable SUV that is great for family transportation and daily commuting. However, for those who love adventure and off-roading, the stock Pilot may not be up to the task, and that’s where modified Honda Pilot off-road vehicles come in.
Before we dive into the modifications, it’s important to note that off-roading can be dangerous and requires proper training and equipment.
If you’re new to off-roading, we recommend taking a class and ensuring that you have the right gear, such as recovery straps, winches, and a first-aid kit.
With that said, let’s get into the modifications that can take your Honda Pilot off-road:
Lift Kit
One of the first upgrades you’ll want to add to your modified Honda Pilot for off-road activities is installing a lift kit.
A lift kit raises the height of the vehicle, which provides more ground clearance and better approach, departure, and break-over angles.
This modification allows you to traverse rough terrain without getting stuck on rocks or other obstacles.
There are several types of lift kits available for the Honda Pilot, including body lift kits, suspension lift kits, and leveling kits.
Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to research which one is best for your needs.
Off-Road Tires
The stock tires on the Honda Pilot are great for on-road use, but they won’t cut it when it comes to off-roading.
Off-road tires have larger treads and stronger sidewalls, which provide better traction and durability on rough terrain.
When choosing off-road tires, it’s important to consider the size and load rating.
Larger tires can provide more ground clearance and a better ride, but they can also put additional strain on the suspension and drivetrain.
The load rating of the tires should match the weight of the vehicle and any gear or equipment that you’ll be carrying.
Skid Plates
Another important mod for your Pilot is skid plates, these are metal or plastic covers that protect the undercarriage of the vehicle from rocks, logs, and other obstacles.
Off-roading can cause damage to the oil pan, transfer case, and other components, so skid plates are essential for protecting these vulnerable areas.
Skid plates are available in different materials and thicknesses, so it’s important to choose the right one for your vehicle and the type of terrain you’ll be driving on.
Steel skid plates are the most durable and provide the best protection, but they are also the heaviest and can affect the vehicle’s handling.
Winch
A winch is a powerful tool that can help you get unstuck from mud, sand, or other obstacles. It consists of a motor, cable, and hook, and is mounted to the front or rear of the vehicle.
When the vehicle is stuck, the winch can pull it out by using the cable and hook to anchor to a tree, rock, or other solid object.
Winches come in different sizes and capacities, so it’s important to choose one that can handle the weight of your vehicle and any gear or equipment that you’ll be carrying.
It’s also important to learn how to use a winch safely and effectively, as improper use can cause damage to the vehicle or injury to yourself or others.
Snorkel
A snorkel is a device that allows the engine to breathe in air from a higher point, such as the roof or the side of the vehicle.
This modification is useful for off-roaders who will be driving through deep water or mud, as it prevents water or debris from entering the engine.
Snorkels are available in different sizes and designs, so it’s important to choose one that fits your vehicle and the type of terrain you’ll be driving on.
A snorkel should also be installed properly, as a poorly installed snorkel can cause leaks or other issues.
Off-Road Lights
Off-road lights are essential for driving in low-light conditions or at night. They provide additional illumination and help you see obstacles or hazards on the trail.
They come in different sizes and styles, including spotlights, floodlights, and light bars.
When choosing off-road lights, it’s important to consider the size and weight of the vehicle, as well as the type of terrain you’ll be driving on.
Light bars are popular among off-roaders, as they provide a wide beam of light that covers a large area. However, they can also be heavy and affect the vehicle’s handling, so it’s important to choose the right size and mounting location.
Performance Upgrades
Off-roading can be hard on the vehicle’s engine, transmission, and other components.
To ensure that your Honda Pilot can handle the demands of off-roading, you may want to consider performance upgrades such as a cold air intake, exhaust system, or tuning.
A cold air intake can improve the airflow to the engine, which can increase horsepower and torque.
An exhaust system can improve the flow of exhaust gases, which can also increase performance.
Tuning can optimize the engine’s settings for off-road use, which can improve throttle response and overall performance.
It’s important to note that performance upgrades can affect the vehicle’s emissions and may not be legal in all areas.
Be sure to check your local laws and regulations before making any modifications.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to take your Honda Pilot off-road, several modifications, like fenders can transform it into an off-road machine.
From lift kits to off-road tires to winches and snorkels, these mods can help you tackle rough terrains with ease, and a modified Honda Pilot for off-road use can be quite useful.
However, it’s important to remember that off-roading can be dangerous and requires proper training and equipment. Be sure to do your research and take the necessary precautions before hitting the trail.
If you have a Toyota Highlander, you may want to check our article showing the best off-roading mods you can get.
