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 4WD V6-3.5LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Engine Controls - Intermittently Engine Doesn't Start Properly
12-031
May 19, 2012
Applies To:
2012 Pilot 2WD - From VIN 5FNYF3H..CB000001 thru 5FNYF3H..CB030537
2012 Pilot 4WD - From VIN 5FNYF4H..CB000001 thru 5FNYF4H..CB061238
Engine Intermittently Does Not Start Properly
SYMPTOM
NOTE:
While American Honda believes this software update will repair the affected vehicles, the investigation is ongoing, and the repair procedure may be updated based on the results of the investigation.The engine intermittently may not start properly with one of the following symptoms:
^ The engine cranks but does not start.
^ The engine starts but stumbles before idling normally.
^ The engine cranks normally but takes longer than usual to start.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Update the PGM-FI software.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
Operation Number: 125517
Flat Rate Time: 0.2 hour
Failed Part: 37820-RN0-B22
Defect Code: 03214
Symptom Code: 03203
Skill Level: Repair Technician
SOFTWARE INFORMATION
NOTE:
Unnecessary or incorrect repairs resulting from a failure to update the HDS or MVCI are not covered under warranty.
MVCI Control Module (CM) Update:
Application Version V2.17.06 or later
Database update 14-MAY-2012 or later
HDS Software Version:
3.004.005 or later
Before beginning the repair, make sure that both
the HDS and MVCI are updated as listed above.
Do only the update listed in this service bulletin.
Check that the MVCI indicates the applicable program
ID listed below (or a later program ID) as the
Recommended Update when the update begins.
If the MVCI displays This vehicle does not need an
update at this time during the update, the software for
this service bulletin is already installed.

For more information about updating the HDS, the MVCI, and vehicle systems, refer to Service Bulletin 01-023, Updating Control Units/Modules.
REPAIR PROCEDURE
Update the PGM-FI software. Refer to Service Bulletin 01-023, Updating Control Units/Modules.

Disclaimer
May 19, 2012
Applies To:
2012 Pilot 2WD - From VIN 5FNYF3H..CB000001 thru 5FNYF3H..CB030537
2012 Pilot 4WD - From VIN 5FNYF4H..CB000001 thru 5FNYF4H..CB061238
Engine Intermittently Does Not Start Properly
SYMPTOM
NOTE:
While American Honda believes this software update will repair the affected vehicles, the investigation is ongoing, and the repair procedure may be updated based on the results of the investigation.The engine intermittently may not start properly with one of the following symptoms:
^ The engine cranks but does not start.
^ The engine starts but stumbles before idling normally.
^ The engine cranks normally but takes longer than usual to start.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Update the PGM-FI software.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
Operation Number: 125517
Flat Rate Time: 0.2 hour
Failed Part: 37820-RN0-B22
Defect Code: 03214
Symptom Code: 03203
Skill Level: Repair Technician
SOFTWARE INFORMATION
NOTE:
Unnecessary or incorrect repairs resulting from a failure to update the HDS or MVCI are not covered under warranty.
MVCI Control Module (CM) Update:
Application Version V2.17.06 or later
Database update 14-MAY-2012 or later
HDS Software Version:
3.004.005 or later
Before beginning the repair, make sure that both
the HDS and MVCI are updated as listed above.
Do only the update listed in this service bulletin.
Check that the MVCI indicates the applicable program
ID listed below (or a later program ID) as the
Recommended Update when the update begins.
If the MVCI displays This vehicle does not need an
update at this time during the update, the software for
this service bulletin is already installed.
For more information about updating the HDS, the MVCI, and vehicle systems, refer to Service Bulletin 01-023, Updating Control Units/Modules.
REPAIR PROCEDURE
Update the PGM-FI software. Refer to Service Bulletin 01-023, Updating Control Units/Modules.
Disclaimer
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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