Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV / Light Truck
Key Competitors:
Toyota Tacoma, Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Nissan Frontier
Unique Selling Points:
Unibody construction, integrated body-frame design, standard VTM-4 AWD system, lockable/waterproof in-bed trunk (Honda Originality Feature).
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Market Coverage:
North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)
Estimated Page Count:
2000+
Type:
Factory-Authorized Service Manual (Digital Software)
Format:
Online Access (Web Browser)
Duration:
1 Year (Renewable)
Powertrain:
Engine (3.5L V6 VTEC J35A9), Transmission (5-Speed Automatic V4A51/BGFA), Drivetrain (All-Wheel Drive - VTM-4)
Chassis:
Suspension (Independent Front/Rear), Steering (Hydraulic Power), Brakes (Front Disc/Rear Disc, ABS, EBD)
Electrical:
Body Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Audio, HVAC Control, Security System
Body And Frame:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Tailgate, Underbody Structure
Maintenance:
Fluid Changes (Engine Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Transmission Fluid), Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Cabin), Spark Plug Service, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Repair:
Engine Component R&R (Alternator, Starter, Water Pump), Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement (Struts, Ball Joints, Bushings), Brake System Repair (Calipers, Rotors, Lines), Steering System Repair (Pump, Rack), Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Interpretation, PCM Data Stream Analysis, Component Testing Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive; Covers routine maintenance, advanced diagnostics, component-level repair, and complete unit overhauls.
Digital Format:
Web-based, accessible via standard web browsers on PC, laptop, smartphone, and tablet.
Output Quality:
High-resolution digital display, searchable text for efficient information retrieval. Printing capabilities depend on user's device and browser.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Code And Type:
J35A9 - 3.5L SOHC VTEC V6
Horsepower @ Rpm:
247 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque @ Rpm:
245 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Regular Unleaded
Oil Capacity W Filter:
4.5 US qt (4.3 L)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-20 (API Certified)
Coolant Capacity:
7.1 US qt (6.7 L)
Spark Plugs:
Iridium-tipped (NGK IZFR6K11 or equivalent), Gap: 0.044" (1.1 mm)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (with Grade Logic Control)
Type:
N/A (Manual transmission not offered)
Drive System:
Variable Torque Management 4-Wheel Drive (VTM-4)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
3.2 US qt (3.0 L) - Drain and Fill
Transmission Fluid Type:
Honda Genuine ATF DW-1 (or equivalent)
Wheelbase:
118.1 inches (3000 mm)
Length:
200.1 inches (5083 mm)
Width:
77.8 inches (1976 mm)
Height:
70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Bed Length Max:
60.0 inches (1524 mm)
Bed Width Between Wheel Wells:
44.0 inches (1118 mm)
Bed Depth:
19.5 inches (495 mm)
Curb Weight:
4,545 - 4,600 lbs (2,062 - 2,087 kg) (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
6,000 lbs (2,722 kg)
Towing Capacity:
3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) (standard), 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) (with optional trailer brake controller and factory tow package)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crash Rating:
Good
Braking System:
4-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, Front side airbags, Side curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Structure:
ACE (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) Body Structure
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type). Variable timing based on Honda Maintenance Minder System (MM Code B or 2).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions). Inspect at 30,000 miles. Honda recommends replacement if towed frequently.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. MM Code 4.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. MM Code B.
Spark Plugs:
Replace at 100,000 miles (Iridium type). MM Code 5.
Power Steering Fluid:
Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent HONDA PSF)
Brake Fluid:
Honda Genuine DOT 3 Brake Fluid
Coolant:
Honda Genuine All-Season Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue)
Timing Belt Or Chain:
The J35A9 engine utilizes a timing *chain*, which is designed for the life of the engine and does not require periodic replacement like a timing belt.
Vtm 4 System:
Potential for VTM-4 actuator issues or fluid leaks. Regular maintenance and fluid changes are crucial. Diagnostic procedures for VTM-4 system are detailed in the manual.
Timing Chain Tensioner:
Some early models may experience noise related to the timing chain tensioner, though less common on 2008. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Suspension Components:
Wear on suspension bushings and ball joints can occur with mileage. Manual provides torque specifications and replacement procedures.
Exhaust System:
Corrosion or leaks in the exhaust system can be a concern depending on climate and road salt usage. Manual covers diagnostic and replacement of exhaust components.
