2024 Honda Pilot Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2024 Honda Pilot: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2024 Honda Pilot has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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 2024 Honda Pilot has a check engine light?

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.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2024 Honda Pilot?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2024 Honda Pilot, the first step is to visually inspect the vehicle for any obvious issues, such as ensuring the gas cap is securely tightened and in good condition, as a loose or damaged cap can often trigger the light. Next, utilizing an OBD-II scanner is crucial; this tool connects to your vehicle's diagnostic port and retrieves error codes that indicate specific problems. Once you have the error codes, take the time to interpret them, either by consulting your vehicle's manual or researching online resources. Understanding these codes will help you assess the severity of the issue and determine if it requires immediate attention. If the problem seems complex or if you're uncertain about the diagnosis, it’s wise to consult a professional mechanic or dealership for further assistance. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2024 Honda Pilot?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2024 Honda Pilot, it serves as a crucial alert for drivers, especially those inclined towards DIY repairs. Understanding the common problems that can trigger this warning light is essential for effective troubleshooting. A loose gas cap is often the simplest issue to check; ensuring it is securely fastened can sometimes resolve the problem immediately. More complex issues may involve a faulty oxygen sensor, which can significantly impact fuel efficiency and emissions; replacing this component is a manageable task for those with basic mechanical skills. Additionally, if the catalytic converter is malfunctioning, it may require professional assessment, but being aware of its role can help you understand the potential severity of the issue. Engine misfires, often caused by worn-out spark plugs or failing ignition coils, can also activate the check engine light, and these parts are typically accessible for replacement. Lastly, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the engine's air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues. By recognizing these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to diagnose and potentially fix the underlying issues, ensuring their Honda Pilot runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2024 Honda Pilot?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2024 Honda Pilot, it is essential to act swiftly to prevent potential complications. This warning signal indicates that there may be an issue with the engine or emissions system, which can significantly affect your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. Ignoring this light can lead to more severe problems, such as engine damage or costly repairs, which could have been avoided with timely intervention. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific issue at hand. Once you have identified the problem, you can research potential fixes or consult repair manuals to guide you through the necessary steps. However, if the issue seems complex or beyond your expertise, it is advisable to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic to ensure that the problem is resolved effectively. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's health but also enhance its longevity and reliability on the road.

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