Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2012 Honda Pilot 2WD V6-3.5LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Compression Check: Testing and Inspection
Engine Compression Inspection
NOTE: After the inspection, you must reset the PCM. Otherwise, the PCM will continue to stop the fuel injectors from operating.
1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
2. Connect the HDS to the DLC.
3. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
4. Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the PCM. If it does not communicate, troubleshoot the DLC circuit Testing and Inspection.
5. Select ALL INJECTORS STOP in the PGM-FI INSPECTION menu with the HDS.
6. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
7. Remove the six ignition coils and the six spark plugs Service and Repair.
8. Attach the compression gauge to a spark plug hole.
9. Step on the accelerator pedal to open the throttle fully, then crank the engine with the starter motor, and measure the compression.
10. Measure the compression on the remaining cylinders.
11. If the compression is not within specifications, perform a cylinder leak down test to determine the problem area. Then check the following items, and remeasure the compression:
- Incorrect valve clearance
- Confirmation of cam timing
- Damaged or worn cam lobes
- Damaged or worn valves and seats
- Damaged cylinder head gaskets
- Damaged or worn piston rings
- Damaged or worn piston and cylinder bore
12. Remove the compression gauge from the spark plug hole.
13. Install the six spark plugs and the six ignition coils Service and Repair.
14. Select PCM reset in the PGM-FI INSPECTION menu to cancel ALL INJECTORS STOP with the HDS.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.