Driving; Before Driving - Honda Pilot 2016 Owner's Manual

DRIVING

DRIVING
Learn about preparation for driving, as well as other features.

Before Driving

Check the following items before you begin driving.
Exterior Checks
• Make sure there are no obstructions on the windows, door mirrors, exterior
lights, or other parts of the vehicle.
• Remove any frost, snow, or ice.
• Make sure the hood is securely closed.
• Heat from the engine and exhaust can ignite flammable materials left under
the hood, causing a fire. If you've parked your vehicle for an extended period,
inspect and remove any debris that may have collected, such as dried grass
and leaves that have fallen or have been carried in for use as a nest by a small
animal. Also check under the hood for leftover flammable materials after you or
someone else has performed maintenance on your vehicle.
• Make sure the tires are in good condition.
• Make sure there are no people or objects behind or around the vehicle.
NOTICE
If the doors are frozen shut, use warm water around the door edges to melt any
ice. Do not try to force them open, as this can damage the rubber trim around the
doors. When done, wipe dry to avoid further freezing.
Interior Checks
• Store or secure all items on board properly.
• Do not pile items higher than the seat height.
• Do not place anything in the front seat footwells. Make sure to secure the floor
mats.
• If you have any animals on board, do not let them move freely around in the
vehicle.
• Securely close and lock all doors and the tailgate.
• Adjust your seating position, mirrors, and steering wheel properly.
• Make sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll under the
seats.
• Everyone in the vehicle must fasten their seat belt.
• Make sure that the indicators in the instrument panel come on when you start
the vehicle, and go off soon after.
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In addition:
• During the first 600 miles (1,000 km) of operation, avoid sudden acceleration or
full throttle operation so as to not damage the engine or powertrain.
• Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles (300 km). You should also follow this
when the brake pads are replaced.
WARNING
Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicle's handling, and
stability, and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.
Follow all instructions in the vehicle owner's manual regarding accessories
and modifications.
Driving Guidelines for Your Utility Vehicle
Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of
vehicles.
To prevent rollovers or loss of control:
• Take corners at slower speeds than you would with a passenger vehicle.
• Avoid sharp turns and abrupt maneuvers whenever possible.
• Do not modify your vehicle in any way that you would raise the center of gravity.
• Do not carry heavy cargo on the roof.
• Never carry more than 165 lbs (75 kg) of cargo on the roof rack (Honda
accessory).
Your vehicle has been designed primarily for use on pavement, however, its higher
ground clearance allows you to occasionally travel on unpaved roads. It is not
designed for trail-blazing, or other challenging off-road activities.
If you decide to drive on unpaved roads, you will find that it requires somewhat
different driving skills and that your vehicle will handle somewhat differently than
it does on pavement. Pay attention to the precautions and tips in this section, and
get acquainted with your vehicle before leaving the pavement.
WARNING
Improperly operating this vehicle on or off pavement can cause a crash or
rollover in which you and your passengers can be seriously injured or killed.
• Follow all instructions and guidelines in this owner's guide.
• Keep your speed low, and don't drive faster than conditions permit.
DRIVING
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