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Could this be a major problem? - Click HERE for Original Thread
Mystique
Hello....

I've had my 04' Pilot for almost 2 years now.
I like driving it except for its odd acceleration characteristics.
It accelerates and runs smoothly but there are times it does not.
It would accelerate sluggishly as if it hasn't been warmed up yet.
Just like stepping on the gas while the engine is still cold.
This acceleration behaviour is intermittent.
I brought it to the dealer but unfortunately they cannot find the problem.
Has anyone experienced this?
Could it be a defective egr valve? An oxygen sensor, or a tranny problem?
Any response will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
CMasten
quote:
Originally posted by Mystique
Hello....

I've had my 04' Pilot for almost 2 years now.
I like driving it except for its odd acceleration characteristics.
It accelerates and runs smoothly but there are times it does not.
It would accelerate sluggishly as if it hasn't been warmed up yet.
Just like stepping on the gas while the engine is still cold.
This acceleration behaviour is intermittent.
I brought it to the dealer but unfortunately they cannot find the problem.
Has anyone experienced this?
Could it be a defective egr valve? An oxygen sensor, or a tranny problem?
Any response will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks



if you can find what causes the symptoms that will help the techs diagnose it, i.e does it happen when its cold or has been driven for a while? You may have to leave it with them once you can give them more info to investigate, its totally not normal for it to act this way, it should be smooth as silk under all circumstances. Others here may have more advice or maybe a TSB for you to take to them.
Mystique
quote:
Originally posted by CMasten


if you can find what causes the symptoms that will help the techs diagnose it, i.e does it happen when its cold or has been driven for a while? You may have to leave it with them once you can give them more info to investigate, its totally not normal for it to act this way, it should be smooth as silk under all circumstances. Others here may have more advice or maybe a TSB for you to take to them.



Thanks for your response.

Yes I did leave my Pilot with the dealer for 2 days for them to evaluate.
Unfortunately nothing came out of it.

To elaborate further on the matter, the Pilot would run smoothly on my way to work which is approx. 18 miles. On my way back, the acceleration would be quite different. Acceleration would be a bit harsh and quite sluggish but definitely not as smooth compared to my drive earlier on my way to work.

And it could be the other way around too. It sometimes would run sluggishly on my way to work and would run smoothly on my way home.

It maybe sluggish but it still revs without hesitation and no surging whatsoever. Just seems like its carrying a heavy load while accelerating.

I'm currently using 87 unleaded regular fuel.
I tried using premium fuel and switching brands but to no avail.

How I wish the acceleration is as smooth as silk at all times.:roadtrip: :8:
krygny
It doesn't sound like a major problem as long as you can find out what it is. You can probably rule out the tranny by watching the tach. If the engine is sluggish (even intermittently), it's probably fuel related. If the engine RPM shoots up when you step on the gas but the car goes nowhere, that's the tranny.
pilotjoe
Re: Could this be a major problem?

I also experience this odd acceleration performance with my Pilot once in a while. Feels like accelerating with the grade logic feature on even on flat terrain where its not suppose to kick in. Its like you're accelerating on low gear always.
Its just annoying because it happens unpredictably.
I've had the egr replaced and the oxygen sensor as well.
I also had the catalytic converter checked if it was clogged.
Also switched fuel brands and fuel grade.
None of this fixed the problem.
I just hope that this type of acceleration behaviour is not a symptom of a defective tranny or one that will not last.
If ever you find a solution please do keep us posted.
Good luck!
ecsw
does it happen it certain speed(gear) range?
Mystique
quote:
Originally posted by ecsw
does it happen it certain speed(gear) range?


The sluggish feel starts at 0 to whatever desired speed with the right shifting pattern. No hesitation and no surging. Acceleration just feels harsh and not smooth as silk.
bigwilliestyle
o2 sensor... maybe.

I had a similar behavior on my other car for a number of months. It was very gradual though. Eventually CEL came on for the sensor.

Entirely different car now. I wouldn't be surprised if this was the issue.
crvrefuge
I know this may sound overly simple, but have you used any fuel treatments such as : Chevron's Techroline (sp?) fuel system cleaner or similar products, maybe some old nasty gasoline fouled your fuel system or injectors in the past , even though your running clean fuel now.


the CRV Refuge
Aru4mie
Re: Could this be a major problem?


I had a similar experience with my Pilot awhile back.
It just felt heavy while accelerating at times.
The dealer couldn't figure out what was wrong.
They determined the EGR valve was okay and so was the oxygen sensor.

The problem disappeared as soon as I had my first transmission fluid changed at 14K.
And what a difference! Even run smoother than the first day I drove it.:)
I did the 3x drain/refill transmission oil change.

If you haven't had your transmission oil changed yet, I just hope changing it will solve your problem.

Good luck!
Rapid Rob
A perfect opportunity for me to again suggest ATF changes every 15k, for the life of the car.

3x fluid changes is the only "flush" recommended by Honda.

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