Tailgate Adjustment

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Honda Pilot, 2010 Honda Pilot, and 2009 Honda Pilot. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools Required

KTC Trim Tool Set SOJATP2014*

* Available through the Honda Tool and Equipment Program; call 888-424-6857

NOTE:

Put on gloves to protect your hands.
Use the appropriate tool from the KTC trim tool set to avoid damage when removing components.

With power tailgate: Do the battery terminal disconnection procedure (see BATTERY TERMINAL DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION ), then wait at least 3 minutes before beginning work.
NOTE: While adjusting the tailgate, use the emergency lever to release the tailgate latch.
- Without power tailgate (see TAILGATE LATCH REPLACEMENT )
- With power tailgate (see WITH POWER TAILGATE )
Remove the support strut from each side (see TAILGATE SUPPORT STRUT REPLACEMENT ).
Remove the tailgate hinge cover (see TAILGATE HINGE COVER REPLACEMENT ).
Remove the striker cap (A) from the rear trim panel (B).

Fig 1: Removing Striker Cap From Rear Trim Panel
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Slightly loosen each bolt (A).

Fig 2: Adjusting Tailgate Right And Left With Torque Specifications
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Adjust the tailgate (B) alignment in the following sequence:
- Adjust the tailgate right and left, using the elongated holes in the tailgate hinges (C).
- Turn the tailgate edge cushions (D), in or out as necessary, to make the tailgate fit flush with the body at the side edges.
- Adjust the fit between the tailgate and tailgate opening by moving the striker (E), and adjust the striker right or left until it is centered in the tailgate latch (F).
Tighten each bolt securely.
Check that the tailgate opens properly and locks securely.
Reinstall the support struts securely.
Apply touch-up paint to the hinge mounting bolts and around the hinges, and let the paint dry.
Apply multipurpose grease to the pivot portion of the tailgate hinges (A) as indicated by the arrows.

Fig 3: Identifying Multipurpose Grease Applying Area To Tailgate Hinges
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Reinstall all of the removed parts.
With power tailgate: Do the battery terminal reconnection procedure (see BATTERY TERMINAL DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION ).

NOTE: Check for any DTCs that may have been set during repairs, and clear them.