If you find yourself with a dead battery in your Honda Pilot, it can be quite frustrating, especially if you need to move your vehicle without the assistance of a running engine. But fear not! There is a simple solution to this problem. In this article, we’ll show you how to put your Honda Pilot in neutral even with a dead battery. So, if you’ve ever wondered how to handle this situation or find yourself in a similar predicament right now, keep reading for the answer you need. How to put Honda Pilot in neutral with dead battery? We’ve got you covered.
How to Put Honda Pilot in Neutral with a Dead Battery
When you find yourself with a dead battery in your Honda Pilot, it can create a frustrating situation, especially if you need to move the vehicle. Typically, when the battery is dead, the electrical system is also affected, including the ability to shift the car into neutral. However, there are a few methods you can try to put your Honda Pilot in neutral even with a dead battery. In this guide, we will explore these methods in detail to help you successfully accomplish this task.
Method 1: Using the Shift Lock Release
Most modern vehicles, including Honda Pilot, have a shift lock release mechanism that allows you to manually put the car in neutral, even if the battery is dead. Here’s how you can use this method:
- Make sure the emergency brake is engaged for added safety.
- Locate the shift lock release slot near the gear selector. The exact location may vary depending on the Honda Pilot model, but it is usually a small square or rectangular cover on the center console.
- Remove the shift lock release cover by prying it open with a flathead screwdriver or a similar tool. Be gentle to avoid damaging the cover.
- Insert the key or a small flathead screwdriver into the shift lock release slot.
- While applying steady pressure on the key or screwdriver, move the gear selector into the neutral position.
- Once the gear selector is in neutral, you can start the vehicle or have it towed to a service center for battery replacement.
It’s important to note that this method may not work if there are other issues with the vehicle’s transmission or mechanical components. If you encounter any resistance or the gear selector won’t move, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic for further assistance.
Method 2: Jump-Starting the Vehicle
If you have access to jumper cables and another car with a working battery, you can try jump-starting your Honda Pilot. This method not only allows you to put the car in neutral but also provides the opportunity to recharge the dead battery. Follow these steps to jump-start your Honda Pilot:
- Park the assisting vehicle close to your Honda Pilot, ensuring that the two vehicles are not touching.
- Turn off the ignition, lights, and all other electrical components in both vehicles.
- Open the hood of both vehicles and locate the batteries.
- Connect the positive (+) jumper cable clamp to the positive terminal of the dead battery.
- Connect the other end of the positive jumper cable to the positive terminal of the assisting vehicle’s battery.
- Connect the negative (-) jumper cable clamp to the negative terminal of the assisting vehicle’s battery.
- Attach the remaining negative jumper cable clamp to an unpainted metal surface, such as a bolt or bracket, away from the dead battery and the fuel system of your Honda Pilot.
- Start the assisting vehicle and let it run for a few minutes to charge the dead battery.
- Attempt to start your Honda Pilot. If it starts, you can now put it in neutral and proceed with your desired actions.
Remember to remove the jumper cables in the reverse order of connection once you are finished. Disconnect the negative clamp from the unpainted metal surface first, followed by the negative clamp from the assisting vehicle’s battery, then the positive clamp from the assisting vehicle’s battery, and finally, the positive clamp from the dead battery. It’s recommended to drive your Honda Pilot for some time to recharge the battery fully.
Method 3: Towing the Vehicle
In some situations, if your Honda Pilot’s battery is completely dead, and you are unable to put the vehicle in neutral using the previous methods, towing might be your best option. Towing can be done using various methods, including flatbed towing or tow dollies. However, it’s crucial to consult a professional towing service to ensure the proper and safe towing process. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Research and choose a reputable towing service that has experience with Honda vehicles.
- Provide all the necessary information about your Honda Pilot to the towing service, including the exact model and any modifications.
- Make sure to communicate that your vehicle has a dead battery and may require manual shifting to the towing service.
- Follow the towing service’s instructions and guidelines to safely prepare your Honda Pilot for towing.
Towing your Honda Pilot with a dead battery may incur additional costs, so it’s essential to inquire about the fees upfront. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to have your vehicle inspected by a licensed mechanic after towing to ensure no further damage has occurred.
Safety Precautions
While attempting to put your Honda Pilot in neutral with a dead battery, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Keep the following safety precautions in mind:
- Always engage the emergency brake before attempting any method.
- Ensure you are in a safe location, away from traffic or any potential hazards.
- Be cautious while using tools or keys near the shift lock release slot, as you don’t want to damage any components.
- If using the jump-starting method, carefully follow the instructions and ensure there are no sparks or open flames near the battery.
- Respect the towing service’s instructions and guidelines to prevent any accidents or damage during the towing process.
By prioritizing safety, you can minimize the risk of accidents or injuries while dealing with a dead battery and shifting your Honda Pilot into neutral.
Remember, if you’re uncomfortable or unsure about any of the methods mentioned above, it’s always best to seek professional assistance. A certified mechanic or towing service will have the expertise and tools necessary to safely handle the situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I put my Honda Pilot in neutral with a dead battery?
If your Honda Pilot has a dead battery and you need to put it in neutral, you can follow these steps:
What tools do I need to put a Honda Pilot in neutral with a dead battery?
No special tools are required to put a Honda Pilot in neutral with a dead battery. However, you will need access to the interior of the vehicle.
Can I put my Honda Pilot in neutral if the battery is completely dead?
Yes, even with a completely dead battery, you can still put your Honda Pilot in neutral. This can be done manually without any power from the battery.
Is it safe to put a Honda Pilot in neutral with a dead battery?
Putting your Honda Pilot in neutral with a dead battery is generally safe as long as you take the necessary precautions. Make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface, and engage the parking brake before attempting to put it in neutral.
How do I put my Honda Pilot in neutral without using the engine start button?
If your Honda Pilot has a dead battery and you cannot use the engine start button, you can still put it in neutral by following these steps:
Can I push my Honda Pilot in neutral with a dead battery?
Yes, you can push a Honda Pilot in neutral with a dead battery. However, make sure you have enough assistance and the vehicle is on a level surface to ensure a smooth and safe push.
Final Thoughts
To put a Honda Pilot in neutral with a dead battery, follow these steps. First, locate the shift lock release slot on the shift lever. Next, insert a flathead screwdriver or a similarly shaped object into the slot. Then, push down firmly while holding the brake pedal. This will release the shift lock mechanism, allowing you to shift the gear lever into neutral. Remember to be cautious and consult the vehicle’s manual for detailed instructions. By following these steps, you can successfully put your Honda Pilot in neutral with a dead battery.