2016 Honda Pilot Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2016 Honda Pilot and How to Address Them Effectively

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2016 Honda Pilot is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Honda Pilot is leaking oil?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What steps should I take to diagnose the oil leak in my 2016 Honda Pilot?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2016 Honda Pilot, begin by locating the source of the leak. This involves checking under the vehicle for any visible oil drips or pooling, as well as inspecting the engine and transmission for wet areas or oil stains. Once you have a general idea of where the leak might be coming from, check the oil level in your engine; a significantly low level can indicate a leak. Pay attention to the oil's color and consistency, as contaminated or discolored oil may suggest specific issues. Next, inspect the gaskets and seals around critical areas such as the oil pan and valve cover, as these are common culprits for leaks. Don’t forget to examine the oil filter and drain plug to ensure they are properly installed and not leaking. If the source remains elusive, consider adding UV dye to the oil, which can help illuminate the leak under a UV light after running the engine. If these steps do not yield results, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable for a thorough inspection and professional diagnosis. This systematic approach not only helps in identifying the leak but also ensures that you address simpler issues before moving on to more complex diagnostics.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2016 Honda Pilot?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a 2016 Honda Pilot, it's essential to understand the common culprits that may be at play. Worn out gaskets are often the primary offenders, as they can deteriorate over time, leading to leaks around critical engine components. Additionally, engine system failures, particularly on the passenger side, can contribute to oil leaks, indicating potential issues within the engine itself. As the vehicle ages, wear and tear can also manifest in various parts, such as valve cover gaskets, the PCV valve, cam seals, the front main seal, and the oil pump with its associated gasket. Recognizing these common causes not only aids in identifying the source of the leak but also emphasizes the importance of timely repairs to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of your Honda Pilot.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2016 Honda Pilot?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2016 Honda Pilot is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. An oil leak can significantly reduce your engine's oil levels, leading to inadequate lubrication, which may result in severe engine damage over time. Furthermore, neglecting this problem can cause your engine to overheat, potentially leading to catastrophic failures that could incur hefty repair costs. Beyond mechanical concerns, an oil leak poses serious safety risks; oil dripping onto hot engine components can ignite, creating a fire hazard. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly and resolve any oil leaks to safeguard both your vehicle's performance and your safety on the road.

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