Power Tailgate Motor Test

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.

Open the tailgate and remove the left D pillar trim (see TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - REAR SIDE AREA ).
Disconnect the 2P connector (A) from the power tailgate motor (B).

Fig 1: Identifying 2P Connector & Power Tailgate Motor

Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Disconnect connector B from the power tailgate control unit.
Close the tailgate manually without latching it.
Engage the power tailgate clutch by connecting battery power to power tailgate control unit connector B terminal No. 2 and battery ground to terminal No. 1.
Check the motor operation by connecting battery power to terminal No. 1 and ground to terminal No. 2. The motor should run (tailgate open).
NOTE: Be careful not to pinch your hands.
After opening the tailgate, connect battery power to terminal No. 2 and ground terminal No. 1. The motor should run (tailgate closed).
If the motor does not run or fails to run smoothly, replace the drive unit assembly (see DRIVE UNIT REPLACEMENT ).