Very useful information. I used this method to remove the panel, probably saved me a couple of hours and a ton of pain from removing the bumper cover. One thing though -- the driver side screw is in a VERY tight place. If you have large hands/thick arms, it can be tricky.
You’re welcome! You can use a flat head screwdriver to pull the center pin out and release it. Or, if you want you can buy a kit like this in the link. They work well, too. a.co/d/099ZTdkM
Thanks for sharing! Very useful! I wonder do I need to replace the hands free adapter with the new 08L91-T90-100A Adapter, hands free assist (HFA with trailer hitch)? Thanks!
I did install it. But after the new grey panel was on the car. With the new grey panel you need a new HFA sensor. If I were to do it again I would install the sensor to the grey panel and then install the grey panel.
Question: after installing the hitch/new panel, am I correct in assuming that the removal wiring plate/cover does not get re-installed? I was thinking it would but I don’t see how it can fit once the wiring outlet/harness is installed. Just wanted to confirm and thanks again for a super video!
Yes, if you want to use the Honda Hitch that tucks into the bumper. The new panel will have a cut out and it’s more squared off so the hitch can fit behind it. If you look at a 2023+ Pilot TrailSport that is the panel you install. You can also purchase a panel in black if you want that part of the bumper to be black instead of silver.
Excellent write up, thank you very much. The hard part was reaching the 2 screws on top - much easier with the spare tire removed. I installed the new panel prior to installing the hitch. Also, the computer gave me all kinds of error messages when I started the car (collision avoidance, lane departure & etc). Fortunately the error messages went away after 1 drive cycle.
so once you remove the clips on the bottom of the silver part and the two 10mm bolts, it just pulls off? Or you have to work the tabs on the top of the piece?
you have to release the 4 tabs from the top of the silver part/original cover. I used a trim tool to gently release each one while also gently pulling the cover and it came off fairly easily.
@@VincenzoDom from the finish/outward facing side of cover and I think it’s pressing down but as you start from one side you should be able to confirm as you pull out an little bit.
I did it with the car on the ground with no ramps or jacks. I used my creeper, because I have one. But, I don’t see why it could not be done without one.
Very useful information. I used this method to remove the panel, probably saved me a couple of hours and a ton of pain from removing the bumper cover. One thing though -- the driver side screw is in a VERY tight place. If you have large hands/thick arms, it can be tricky.
A good callout.
Just installed the OEM hitch, wiring harness, and the hand free adapter on my 2025 pilot after work yesterday. Took me two hours to complete the job.
Nice! Good job.
Great video. Thorough instructions, thanks.
Glad it was helpful! You are very welcome.
Thank, any special tools to remove those plastic clips ? I appreciate the effort you put in to help the rest of us.
You’re welcome! You can use a flat head screwdriver to pull the center pin out and release it. Or, if you want you can buy a kit like this in the link. They work well, too.
a.co/d/099ZTdkM
Thanks for this helpful video. Do you to remove the rear tail lights in order to remove the panels in the trunk?
No you do not. The harness will have instructions on which panels inside to pull off.
Thanks for sharing! Very useful! I wonder do I need to replace the hands free adapter with the new 08L91-T90-100A Adapter, hands free assist (HFA with trailer hitch)? Thanks!
I did have to replace my sensor. I believe that is the part number. “T90” is for the 2023+ Pilot.
Great tips! Do you attach the HFA to the silver panel first before installing the silver panel?
I didn’t but if I did it again I would.
@@InsideBigJaysGarageso you didn’t install hand free adapter? If you did would you mind sharing how you did that.
I did install it. But after the new grey panel was on the car. With the new grey panel you need a new HFA sensor. If I were to do it again I would install the sensor to the grey panel and then install the grey panel.
@@InsideBigJaysGarage got it, thanks.
You mentioned towing a trailer. What would be the next step to be able to use the trailer brakes? Would you need to install a trailer brake?
I don't have trailer brakes, so I don't have any input for you.
An excellent video. Thank You!
You are welcome!
Question: after installing the hitch/new panel, am I correct in assuming that the removal wiring plate/cover does not get re-installed? I was thinking it would but I don’t see how it can fit once the wiring outlet/harness is installed. Just wanted to confirm and thanks again for a super video!
Correct. If you have the wiring harness that silver cover has to come off.
Awesome DIY video. The dealership would charge an arm and a leg. As long as I got the time and tools, I’m pretty confident I can do it. Thanks!
Can the new hands free lift adapter be installed as well without bumper removal?
Yes it can! Mount it before or after you install the new insert.
So the stock bottom panel needs to be replaced with one that has the cut out for the hitch?
Yes, if you want to use the Honda Hitch that tucks into the bumper. The new panel will have a cut out and it’s more squared off so the hitch can fit behind it. If you look at a 2023+ Pilot TrailSport that is the panel you install. You can also purchase a panel in black if you want that part of the bumper to be black instead of silver.
@@InsideBigJaysGarage Thanks man
You are very welcome! Good luck.
Excellent write up, thank you very much. The hard part was reaching the 2 screws on top - much easier with the spare tire removed. I installed the new panel prior to installing the hitch. Also, the computer gave me all kinds of error messages when I started the car (collision avoidance, lane departure & etc). Fortunately the error messages went away after 1 drive cycle.
@@walterdannhardt7486 All great tips! Thanks!
so once you remove the clips on the bottom of the silver part and the two 10mm bolts, it just pulls off? Or you have to work the tabs on the top of the piece?
IIRC once all the fasteners are off it comes right off.
you have to release the 4 tabs from the top of the silver part/original cover. I used a trim tool to gently release each one while also gently pulling the cover and it came off fairly easily.
@@chadnewsome8525 thanks for the insight. Assuming using the trim tool from the finish side of the cover? Or from under the car? Pressing down?
@@VincenzoDom from the finish/outward facing side of cover and I think it’s pressing down but as you start from one side you should be able to confirm as you pull out an little bit.
@@chadnewsome8525 appreciated!
Does it interfere with the backing sensors?
No issues to report.
Does your golden retriever slide around in the back while you drive?
No. Short trips to the park or vet she just lays down. Longer trips we have a large crate that she travels in.
Hey were are you located are you in Canada?
I am not in Canada. I am in upstate NY.
Is this all doable without lifting the car up and without a flat roller/creeper when working underneath?
I did it with the car on the ground with no ramps or jacks. I used my creeper, because I have one. But, I don’t see why it could not be done without one.