Market Segment:
Mid-size Sport Utility Truck (SUT)
Unique Selling Proposition:
Unibody construction, car-like ride and handling, integrated cargo bed
Primary Competitors:
Toyota Tacoma, Ford F-150, Nissan Frontier
Vehicle Platform:
Based on Honda Pilot/MDX platform (second generation)
Construction:
Integrated body-on-frame (pseudo-unibody) construction
Manual Provider:
RepairSurge (licensed OE materials)
Manual Advantage:
More convenient and cost-effective than traditional printed manuals
Primary Focus:
Repair and maintenance procedures
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians
Estimated Pages:
Thousands (digital format, comprehensive)
Type:
Factory-derived Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Online Software / Digital Access
Access Duration:
1 Year (with option for renewal discounts)
Engine:
3.5L V6 (J35A7) - diagnostics, repair, overhaul
Transmission:
5-speed automatic transmission (RMFA) - diagnosis, service, overhaul
Drivetrain:
VTM-4 (Variable Torque Management 4WD) system, driveshafts, differentials
Suspension:
Independent front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion, steering column, linkages
Brakes:
Front disc, rear disc, ABS, VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) system
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, charging system, starting system
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system components, diagnosis, refrigerant handling
Bodywork:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, tailgate, bed construction
Safety:
Airbag system, seat belts, structural integrity
Chassis:
Frame construction, subframes, mounting points
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) lookup, symptom-based diagnosis
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, calibrations
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission component-level rebuilding
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed circuit diagrams for all electrical systems
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Honda tools
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including scan tool data interpretation
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars
IIHS Crash Test Results:
Good in front, side, and rear impact tests (for its model year)
Active Safety:
ABS, EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist)
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, active front head restraints
Audio System:
Available premium audio system with subwoofer, CD player, and MP3 capability
Connectivity:
Available Bluetooth HandsFreeLink connectivity, auxiliary audio input
Driver Aids:
Cruise control, rearview camera (on some trims)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (under normal driving conditions), indicated by the Maintenance Minder System
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (indicated by Maintenance Minder)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Check every 30,000 miles, replace approximately every 60,000 miles or as indicated by Maintenance Minder
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically last up to 100,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified 5W-20 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Honda Genuine Type 2 (Blue) Antifreeze/Coolant
Power Steering Fluid:
Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid
Common Complaints:
Potential for VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) related issues (though less prevalent in 2009 than later models), occasional minor electrical glitches, transmission shudder
Diagnostic Focus Areas:
Regularly inspect the timing belt (if applicable to specific engine variant), brake system components, and suspension for wear.
Brand Identity:
Honda's reputation for reliability, innovation, and engineering excellence
First Generation Introduction:
2006 model year
Design Philosophy:
Bridge the gap between traditional trucks and SUVs, offering utility with comfort
Manufacturing Plant:
Honda of Lincoln, Alabama, USA
Automotive Journal Awards:
Frequently praised for its utility, comfortable ride, and practicality by automotive reviewers.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally good reliability ratings for Honda vehicles of this era.