Power Tailgate Closer 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.

Remove the tailgate trim panel (see TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - TAILGATE AREA ).
Disconnect the 2P connector (A) from the closer motor (B).

Fig 1: Identifying 2P Connector & Closer Motor

Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Check motor operation by connecting battery power to tailgate closer unit 2P connector terminal No. 2 and ground to terminal No. 1. To prevent damage to the motor, apply battery voltage only momentarily. The motor should run.
If the motor does not run or fails to run smoothly, replace the tailgate latch assembly (see TAILGATE LATCH REPLACEMENT ).