How Many Catalytic Converters Does a Honda Pilot Have?

Yes. Every Honda Pilot uses two primary catalytic converters—one for each cylinder bank of its V6 engine—and most model years also include a third, secondary (underfloor) converter. In practice, that means Pilots typically have three converters, though the legally monitored “primary” units are the two bank-mounted converters.

Why Pilots Have At Least Two Converters

The Honda Pilot’s V6 is a “V” engine with two cylinder banks. To meet emissions standards and heat up quickly after a cold start, engineers place a catalytic converter close to each bank (often integrated with the exhaust manifold). These are the two primary, or “close-coupled,” converters. Many Pilots also carry a third, downstream converter under the vehicle that further cleans exhaust before it exits the tailpipe.

Typical Converter Count by Generation

The following breakdown shows how many catalytic converters are commonly found on Honda Pilots across generations. Exact equipment can vary slightly by emissions certification (e.g., California/50‑state ULEV/PZEV packages), but the pattern is consistent.

• 2003–2008 (1st generation): Two primary manifold/close-coupled converters (Bank 1 and Bank 2) plus one underfloor converter (total: three).
• 2009–2015 (2nd generation): Two primary converters plus an underfloor converter (total: three).
• 2016–2022 (3rd generation): Two primary converters plus an underfloor converter (total: three).
• 2023–present (4th generation): Two primary converters plus an underfloor converter (total: three).

Across all generations, owners should expect two bank-specific converters and, in most cases, an additional center/underfloor unit.

What This Means for Maintenance, Diagnosis, and Theft Risk

Understanding how many converters your Pilot has helps with service estimates and troubleshooting, and it also clarifies theft risk and parts sourcing. Here’s why it matters:

• Diagnostics: OBD-II trouble codes often reference the bank-specific converters (e.g., efficiency below threshold on Bank 1 or Bank 2). The underfloor unit may not always be directly monitored by its own sensor pair.
• Costs: Replacement pricing can vary widely between the close-coupled (manifold) units and the underfloor converter; labor access differs as well.
• Theft prevention: Thieves typically target the most accessible underfloor converter. Pilots have a visible center-section converter in addition to the two near the engine.

Being aware of all locations can help you interpret repair quotes, protect the vehicle, and discuss accurate parts with a shop.

How to Confirm Your Pilot’s Setup

If you want to verify your exact configuration, these steps will help you identify what’s on your specific vehicle.

1. Check the under-hood emissions label: It often specifies the emissions standard (e.g., ULEV II, SULEV/PZEV) and can hint at the presence of an additional underfloor converter.
2. Decode your VIN and emissions spec: Dealer service departments or OEM parts catalogs can confirm the parts count for your trim and model year.
3. Perform a visual inspection: From the engine bay, you’ll see the two close-coupled units at each exhaust manifold. From beneath (safely, with the vehicle supported), look along the exhaust tunnel for a center/underfloor converter.

Combining the emissions label, VIN lookup, and a careful visual check will give you a definitive answer for your exact Pilot.

Bottom Line

Honda Pilots have two primary catalytic converters—one per cylinder bank—and, on most models and years, a third underfloor converter. Plan for three total converters unless a specific emissions package indicates otherwise.

Summary

In short, the Honda Pilot’s V6 exhaust system includes two bank-mounted catalytic converters as standard, with most Pilots also carrying a third underfloor unit. This layout improves cold-start emissions, influences diagnostic codes and repair costs, and affects theft exposure. To confirm your vehicle’s exact setup, consult the emissions label, run a VIN-based parts check, and visually inspect the exhaust path.

How much to replace a catalytic converter on a Honda Pilot?

Labor costs are estimated between $291 and $427 while parts are priced between $1,688 and $1,788.

How many catalytic converters are in a Honda Pilot?

All 3 Catalytic Converters For 2016-2019 Honda Pilot 3.5L With Flex.

What vehicles have two catalytic converters?

Most cars usually have one single convertor, but cars with dual exhaust systems tend to have two converters. Some vehicles also have more than two converters, which are generally required to meet emission standards. Can you have zero catalytic converters, though? The answer is NO.

Do Honda pilots have catalytic converters?

MagnaFlow offers industry leading Honda Pilot Catalytic Converter replacements that will keep your Pilot running efficient and meet your local emissions compliance.