2016 Honda Pilot Fuel Economy – Master Your Mpg & Save Big At The Pump

Let’s face it, nobody enjoys watching their hard-earned cash disappear at the gas pump, especially with today’s fuel prices. If you’re the proud owner of a 2016 Honda Pilot, you know it’s a fantastic, versatile SUV – perfect for family adventures, hauling gear, or even light off-roading. But you might also be wondering how to squeeze every last mile out of each gallon. You’re not alone. Many Pilot owners are looking for ways to optimize their 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy.

At FatBoysOffroad, we understand the desire to get the most out of your vehicle, whether it’s for daily commutes or weekend excursions. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide. We promise to dive deep into practical strategies, maintenance tips, and common pitfalls that affect your Pilot’s MPG. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear roadmap to significantly improve your 2016 Honda Pilot’s efficiency, helping you save money, reduce your environmental footprint, and keep your ride running smoothly.

Understanding Your 2016 Honda Pilot Fuel Economy: What to Expect

Before we dive into improvements, it’s helpful to understand the baseline. The 2016 Honda Pilot, being a mid-size SUV, offers decent but not groundbreaking fuel efficiency for its class. Most models come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with either a 6-speed automatic or a 9-speed automatic transmission (found in higher trims like Touring and Elite).

According to the EPA, here’s what you can generally expect:

2WD (6-speed auto): 19 MPG city / 27 MPG highway / 22 MPG combined
AWD (6-speed auto): 18 MPG city / 26 MPG highway / 21 MPG combined
2WD (9-speed auto): 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway / 23 MPG combined
AWD (9-speed auto): 19 MPG city / 26 MPG highway / 22 MPG combined

These numbers are a starting point. Your real-world 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy can vary wildly based on driving conditions, maintenance, and your personal driving style. Don’t be discouraged if you’re not hitting these exact figures; our goal is to help you get as close as possible, or even exceed them!

Top 2016 Honda Pilot Fuel Economy Tips: Driving Habits That Save

The easiest and often most impactful way to improve your MPG doesn’t cost a dime – it’s all about how you drive. Adopting smart driving habits is crucial for sustainable 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy. Think of it as mastering the art of efficient driving.

Smooth Acceleration and Braking

Aggressive driving is an MPG killer. Jackrabbit starts and sudden stops waste a tremendous amount of fuel. Your engine works harder to accelerate quickly, and then all that kinetic energy is simply converted to heat in your brakes when you slam on them.

Accelerate Gently: Ease onto the gas pedal. Aim for a gradual increase in speed. Imagine there’s an egg under your foot – you don’t want to break it!
Anticipate Traffic: Look several cars ahead. If you see brake lights, start lifting off the accelerator early. This allows for gentle deceleration and often avoids a full stop, which saves fuel.
Maintain Momentum: Try to keep your Pilot rolling. Every time you come to a complete stop, your engine has to use more fuel to get moving again.

Mind Your Speed

Aerodynamic drag increases exponentially with speed. Pushing your Pilot past 60-65 mph significantly impacts fuel consumption.

Stick to the Speed Limit: Not only is it safer, but driving at or slightly below the posted highway speed limits (especially 60-65 mph) can dramatically improve your highway MPG.
Use Cruise Control: On flat highways, cruise control can help maintain a consistent speed, preventing unintentional acceleration and deceleration that wastes fuel. However, on hilly terrain, it might be better to manage the throttle manually to avoid excessive downshifting.

Avoid Excessive Idling

Your Pilot’s engine burns fuel even when it’s just sitting there, not moving. Idling for more than 30 seconds typically uses more fuel than restarting the engine.

Turn Off the Engine: If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute (e.g., waiting for someone, at a long train crossing), it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off your engine and restart when ready.

Lighten the Load

Extra weight means your engine has to work harder to move your vehicle, directly impacting your 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy.

Clear Out Clutter: Regularly remove unnecessary items from your trunk and cabin. Those old tools, sports equipment, or bags you “might need” add up.
Roof Racks & Cargo Carriers: These create significant aerodynamic drag, even when empty. Remove them when not in use. This is a big one for off-roaders who might have recovery gear or extra tires mounted up top.

Essential Maintenance for Optimal 2016 Honda Pilot Fuel Economy

Think of proper maintenance as the bedrock of good MPG. Neglecting routine service is one of the most common problems with 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy. Keeping your Pilot in tip-top shape ensures its systems are running efficiently, which directly translates to better gas mileage and a longer vehicle lifespan. This is your ultimate 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy care guide.

Tire Pressure Matters

Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder. This is a quick and easy fix that makes a big difference.

Check Monthly: Use a reliable tire pressure gauge (like a digital gauge, typically around $15-25) to check your tire pressure at least once a month, and always before long trips.
Follow Manufacturer Specs: The correct tire pressure for your Pilot is listed on a sticker inside your driver’s side door jamb, not on the tire sidewall.
Consider Nitrogen: While not essential, nitrogen-filled tires maintain pressure more consistently, which can be a small boost to sustainable fuel economy.

Regular Oil Changes

Clean, fresh engine oil reduces friction between moving parts. Old, dirty oil causes more friction, making your engine work harder.

Follow Honda’s Schedule: Adhere to the oil change intervals recommended in your Pilot’s owner’s manual. For the 2016 Pilot, Honda’s Maintenance Minder system will tell you when it’s time, usually around 7,500-10,000 miles with synthetic oil.
Use the Right Oil: Always use the oil type and viscosity specified by Honda (e.g., 0W-20 synthetic). The wrong oil can negatively impact efficiency.

Air Filter Replacement

A clogged engine air filter restricts airflow to the engine, making it “gasp” for air. This reduces combustion efficiency and can hurt your MPG.

Inspect Regularly: Pop the hood and visually inspect your air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles, or more often if you drive in dusty conditions (common for off-roaders!).
Replace When Dirty: If it looks dark, dusty, or has debris, replace it with a new one. A quality aftermarket filter costs around $20-40 and is an easy DIY job with basic tools (usually just a screwdriver).

Spark Plug Health

Worn-out spark plugs can lead to misfires and incomplete combustion, wasting fuel.

Follow Schedule: Honda typically recommends spark plug replacement around 100,000 miles for iridium plugs.
Don’t Delay: While they last a long time, don’t put off this service. It directly impacts combustion efficiency.

Fuel System Cleanliness

A dirty fuel system (injectors, lines) can lead to inefficient fuel delivery.

Use Quality Fuel: Stick to reputable gas stations and avoid cheap, off-brand fuel.
Fuel System Cleaner: Consider using a high-quality fuel system cleaner (like Techron or Sea Foam, ~$10-20 per bottle) every 10,000-15,000 miles. Follow the product’s instructions.

Wheel Alignment and Brakes

Misaligned wheels create drag, and dragging brakes waste fuel.

Regular Alignment Checks: If you notice your Pilot pulling to one side, or if your tires are wearing unevenly, get an alignment. This is especially important for off-road enthusiasts who might frequently encounter rough terrain.
Inspect Brakes: Ensure your brake calipers aren’t sticking and pads aren’t dragging. If you hear squealing or feel a pull when braking, have them inspected by a professional.

Tackling Common Problems with 2016 Honda Pilot Fuel Economy

Even with good driving habits and regular maintenance, sometimes something specific goes wrong that negatively impacts your MPG. Here’s a look at common issues that can hurt your 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy and how to address them.

Check Engine Light (CEL)

If your Check Engine Light is on, don’t ignore it. Many CEL codes relate to emissions or engine performance issues that can directly affect fuel economy.

Scan for Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner (a basic one costs $20-50, or many auto parts stores will scan it for free) to read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Common Culprits:
- Oxygen Sensor Issues: A faulty O2 sensor can cause your engine to run too rich or too lean, both wasting fuel.
- Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF): A dirty or failing MAF sensor can send incorrect air-volume readings to the engine computer, leading to improper fuel mixture.
- EVAP System Leaks: Problems with the evaporative emissions system can trigger a CEL and sometimes impact fuel economy.
Professional Help: If you’re unsure about diagnosing or fixing these issues, it’s best to consult a trusted mechanic.

Worn Wheel Bearings

While less common, a severely worn wheel bearing can create significant friction and drag, noticeably reducing your MPG.

Symptoms: Listen for a humming or grinding noise that changes with speed, or feel for looseness when jacking up the wheel and trying to wiggle it.
Safety First: Worn wheel bearings are a safety hazard. If you suspect an issue, have it inspected and replaced by a professional immediately.

Transmission Issues

A struggling transmission, especially with the 9-speed automatic, can cause inefficient power transfer and poor fuel economy. Issues like delayed shifts, slipping, or harsh engagement can all indicate a problem.

Fluid Check: Ensure your transmission fluid is at the correct level and isn’t dark or burnt-smelling. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct checking procedure.
Professional Diagnosis: Transmission problems are complex and best left to specialists. Early diagnosis can often prevent more costly repairs down the line.

Performance Mods & Off-Road Considerations for Your Pilot’s MPG

For the FatBoysOffroad crew, the idea of performance mods often leans towards power and capability, which can sometimes work against fuel economy. However, there are smart choices to make, and awareness of how off-road setups impact your 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy is key.

Lift Kits and Larger Tires

These are hallmarks of an off-road build, but they have direct consequences for your MPG.

Aerodynamic Drag: A lift kit increases your Pilot’s frontal area, leading to more wind resistance.
Rolling Resistance & Weight: Larger, heavier, and more aggressive off-road tires (like M/Ts) have higher rolling resistance and add significant unsprung weight, making the engine work harder.
Gear Ratio Impact: Significantly larger tires effectively change your final drive ratio, making the engine rev higher to maintain speed, especially without re-gearing (which isn’t common for Pilots).

Pro Tip: If you run aggressive tires for off-roading, consider having a separate set of more street-friendly tires and wheels for daily driving to maximize your eco-friendly 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy during the week.

Engine Performance Mods

While some mods claim to boost both power and efficiency, always approach them with a critical eye. Generally, mods designed to increase horsepower (like cold air intakes, performance exhausts, or ECU tunes) prioritize power over MPG.

Cold Air Intakes (CAI): While they can improve airflow, the real-world MPG benefits are often minimal unless paired with a proper tune.
ECU Tunes: Some “eco-tunes” exist, but most performance tunes aim for power. Research thoroughly and understand the trade-offs.

Weight Reduction (Again!)

This applies even more to off-roaders. Every pound counts.

Remove Unused Gear: Don’t drive around with recovery boards, a high-lift jack, or extra fuel cans if you’re just commuting.
Consider Lightweight Alternatives: If you’re serious about saving weight (and fuel), look into lighter aftermarket parts where feasible.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Strategies for Sustainable 2016 Honda Pilot Fuel Economy

For those who want to go the extra mile in optimizing their 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy, these advanced strategies can offer incremental gains and reinforce best practices.

Monitor Your MPG

You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Many 2016 Pilots have an onboard fuel economy display. Reset it regularly to see the impact of your changes.

Track Manually: For the most accurate results, track your MPG manually by filling up, resetting your trip odometer, driving, then dividing the miles driven by the gallons added at the next fill-up. Apps like Fuelly can help you log and visualize this data over time.

Aerodynamic Improvements

While a Pilot isn’t a sports car, small aerodynamic tweaks can help.

Window Vents: Keep windows closed at highway speeds. Open windows create drag. Use your AC (sparingly) instead.
Underbody Panels: Ensure all factory underbody panels are intact. They help smooth airflow underneath the vehicle.

Engine Oil Additives (Use with Caution)

Some oil additives claim to reduce friction and improve fuel economy. While some might offer marginal benefits, many are snake oil. If you choose to use one, stick to reputable brands and research independent reviews. Honda engines are generally well-engineered and don’t require additives if maintained properly with the correct oil.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2016 Honda Pilot Fuel Economy

How can I specifically improve my 2016 Honda Pilot’s city fuel economy?

For city driving, focus on smooth acceleration and braking, anticipating traffic, and minimizing idling. City driving involves more stops and starts, which are the biggest fuel killers. Regularly check your tire pressure and ensure your engine air filter is clean.

Are there any specific “eco-friendly 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy” settings or features?

Yes, your 2016 Honda Pilot likely has an “ECON” button. When activated, it adjusts engine performance, transmission shift points, and climate control to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it might make the vehicle feel less responsive, it’s designed to help you achieve better MPG. Use it for your daily commutes!

What are the benefits of 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy improvements?

The benefits are threefold: you save money on gas, reduce your carbon footprint (making it more sustainable), and often extend the life of your vehicle by ensuring it’s well-maintained and driven gently. It’s a win-win-win scenario for your wallet, the environment, and your Pilot.

Is using premium fuel better for my 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy?

No. The 2016 Honda Pilot is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane). Using premium fuel will not provide any fuel economy benefits and is simply a waste of money unless your owner’s manual specifically states it’s required (which it doesn’t for the Pilot).

When should I call a professional about my Pilot’s fuel economy?

If you’ve implemented these tips and your fuel economy suddenly or drastically drops without an obvious cause (like new heavy tires or a roof rack), or if your Check Engine Light is on, it’s time to consult a professional mechanic. They can diagnose underlying mechanical or electronic issues that might be impacting your MPG.

Optimizing your 2016 Honda Pilot fuel economy isn’t just about saving a few bucks at the pump; it’s about getting the most out of your vehicle, reducing your environmental impact, and ensuring your Pilot runs reliably for years to come. By implementing these practical tips, from mindful driving habits to diligent maintenance, you’ll be well on your way to a more efficient and enjoyable ownership experience.

Remember, whether you’re tackling daily commutes or heading out on an off-road adventure, an efficient vehicle is a happy vehicle. Stay safe and stay comfortable on your journeys!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.