2016-2022 Honda Pilot Liftgate Failure: Power vs. Manual Explained
A guide to diagnosing common power liftgate problems and understanding the crucial differences between motorized and standard lift supports before you buy.
- The most critical step is to verify if your Pilot has a power or manual liftgate, as the parts are completely different and not interchangeable.
- Common power liftgate failures include opening and then immediately closing, making grinding noises, or stopping partway. A system reset should be attempted before replacing parts.
- For manual liftgates, the only common failure is the struts losing pressure, causing the gate to sag or slam shut. They should always be replaced in pairs.
- A used OEM power liftgate motor is often a better choice than a new aftermarket one due to superior electronic compatibility and fitment, offering significant cost savings over a new OEM part.
Power vs. Manual Liftgate: A Critical Compatibility Check
Before purchasing a replacement liftgate support for a 2016-2022 Honda Pilot, you must first identify which system your vehicle has. The parts are not interchangeable, and installing the wrong one will not work.
- Power Liftgate: Found on EX-L, Touring, and Elite trims. These vehicles have buttons to automatically open and close the tailgate on the dashboard, the key fob, and the liftgate itself. The key component is a motorized actuator, which is much more expensive than a standard gas strut.
- Manual Liftgate: Found on LX and some EX trims. The liftgate must be opened and closed by hand. It uses two simple gas-charged struts (also called lift cylinders or stays) to assist with lifting and to hold the gate open.
Warning: The most common mistake is ordering the wrong part. A power liftgate uses one motorized actuator and one assist strut. A manual liftgate uses two standard gas struts. Always verify if your Pilot has the power liftgate option before ordering.
Symptoms of a Failing Liftgate Support
Failure symptoms differ significantly between the power and manual systems.
Symptoms for Power Liftgates
- Opens and Immediately Closes: The liftgate opens fully or partially, beeps several times, and then automatically closes. This is a very common complaint found in owner forums.
- Grinding or Clicking Noises: Audible clicks or grinding sounds during operation often point to a problem with the motor or gears inside the power actuator.
- Failure to Open or Close: Pressing the button on the key fob, dash, or tailgate results in beeps but no movement, or the latch may release without the gate lifting.
- Partial Opening: The liftgate only opens partway and stops, requiring you to manually push it to the fully open position. This can be a sign of a weak motor or failing assist strut.
- "Power Tailgate Problem" Message: A warning message may appear on the instrument cluster.
Symptoms for Manual Liftgates
- Liftgate Won't Stay Open: The most common symptom. You lift the gate, and it slowly drifts down or slams shut unexpectedly. This happens when the gas struts lose their internal pressure.
- Difficult to Lift: The liftgate feels extremely heavy to open because the struts are no longer providing lifting assistance.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
As of early 2026, there are no official NHTSA recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) specifically for the liftgate struts or power liftgate motors on the 2016-2022 Honda Pilot. However, owner forums are filled with reports of power liftgate malfunctions, indicating a common real-world problem. Many owners report issues starting after the liftgate was manually forced shut or when the cargo area was over-packed.
Before assuming a part has failed, try a system reset.
How to Reset the Power Liftgate
If your power liftgate is behaving erratically, a reset procedure can sometimes resolve the issue.
- Put the vehicle in Park (P) and unlock all doors.
- Press and hold the power tailgate button on the dashboard until the tailgate begins to open.
- Press the button again to stop the tailgate mid-travel.
- Press the button on the inside of the liftgate itself to automatically close it. This can recalibrate the system. 🎬 Watch a quick video demonstration of the power liftgate reset.
Pro Tip: Cold weather can make weak lift struts perform worse. If your liftgate problems only appear in the winter, the struts or motor are likely failing and losing the power needed to operate in colder, denser air.
Buying a Used 2016-2022 Pilot Liftgate Support
For buyers of used parts, a recycled OEM liftgate support can offer significant savings, especially for the expensive power actuator. Here’s what to look for.
What to Physically Inspect
- For Power Actuators: Carefully inspect the entire unit. Look for a straight, undented main shaft. Check the electrical connector for any bent, corroded, or broken pins. Ensure the wiring harness is not cut, frayed, or damaged.
- For Manual Struts: Check the strut body for any signs of rust, dents, or fluid leakage around the seal where the rod enters the cylinder. A leaking strut has failed and will not hold pressure.
- Ball Sockets: Check the mounting points (ball sockets) on both ends. They should be intact and free of cracks.
Compatibility and Red Flags
- Verify the Part Number: Match the OEM part number exactly. For power liftgates, the main drive unit is often part number 74961-TG7-325 (or a superseded version). For manual gates, look for 74820-TG7-A01 (Right) and 74870-TG7-A01 (Left).
- Avoid Damaged Parts: Never purchase a lift support that is bent or shows signs of heavy impact. A bent shaft will bind and cause the power motor to fail or prevent a manual strut from operating smoothly.
- Why Used OEM is a Smart Choice: For the power liftgate motor, a used OEM unit is often superior to a new aftermarket one. OEM electronics are designed to integrate perfectly with the vehicle's control module, avoiding the compatibility issues common with aftermarket parts. For manual struts, used OEM units are a reliable and affordable alternative to new, provided they are inspected for leaks.
Replacement Overview
Replacing liftgate supports is a common DIY task, but the difficulty varies by type.
- Manual Strut Replacement: This is a very straightforward job. You'll need a second person or a sturdy prop to hold the heavy liftgate open. Use a small flathead screwdriver to release the metal clips on the old struts, pop them off, and snap the new ones into place. 🎬 See how easy it is to replace manual liftgate struts.
- Power Actuator Replacement: This is more involved. It requires removing interior trim panels from the side of the cargo area to access the motor and its electrical connection. While manageable for an experienced DIYer, it requires patience and care to avoid breaking plastic trim clips. 🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing the power liftgate actuator.
| Component | Difficulty | Estimated Time | DIY Feasible? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual Liftgate Strut (Pair) | 1 out of 5 | 0.5 hours | Yes |
| Power Liftgate Actuator | 3 out of 5 | 1.5 - 2 hours | Yes, for experienced DIYers |
Cost Comparison
The price difference between manual and power liftgate components is significant.
| Part | New OEM | New Aftermarket | Used OEM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Liftgate Motor/Actuator | $410 - $625 | $250 - $450 | $150 - $300 |
| Manual Liftgate Strut (Single) | $30 - $45 | $20 - $40 (for a pair) | $20 - $35 |
Shop labor to replace a power liftgate motor typically costs between $130 and $200.
Part Number Reference
| Part Number | Description | Fitment Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 74961-TG7-325 | Motor Set, Power Tailgate | For vehicles WITH power liftgate. Supersedes 74961-TG7-305 and 74961-TG7-315. |
| 74820-TG7-A01 | Stay Assembly, R. Tailgate Open | Right side strut for vehicles WITHOUT power liftgate. |
| 74870-TG7-A01 | Lift Cylinder / Stay Assembly, L. | Left side strut for vehicles WITHOUT power liftgate. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace just one manual liftgate strut?
It is strongly recommended to replace manual liftgate struts in pairs. They wear out at a similar rate, and a new strut paired with an old, weak one will be overworked and fail prematurely. Replacing both ensures even lifting force and longevity.
My power liftgate beeps but won't move. Is the motor bad?
Not necessarily. First, check for any obstructions. Second, try the reset procedure mentioned above. Third, check the vehicle's battery; a weak battery may not have enough power to operate the motor. If those steps don't work, the issue could be the motor, the control module, or the latch assembly.
Do I need to program the new power liftgate motor after installation?
Generally, a specific programming tool is not required. However, after installation, you may need to perform an initialization or reset procedure. It's also a good idea to set the custom height limit by manually moving the gate to the desired height and then pressing and holding the inner close button until it beeps.
Can I convert my manual liftgate to a power one?
Yes, aftermarket retrofit kits are available that allow you to add a power liftgate system to a vehicle that did not come with one from the factory. These kits typically include power struts, a control module, wiring, and buttons. Installation is complex and often best left to a professional.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 74820-TG7-A01 74870-TG7-A01 74961-TG7-325 74961-TG7-305 74961-TG7-315
Varies by part type. Manual struts are gas-charged supports. Power liftgate system includes a motorized actuator, control module, and sensors.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Honda Pilot:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Power vs. Manual Liftgate: A Critical Compatibility Check
- Symptoms of a Failing Liftgate Support
- Symptoms for Power Liftgates
- Symptoms for Manual Liftgates
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
- How to Reset the Power Liftgate
- Buying a Used 2016-2022 Pilot Liftgate Support
- What to Physically Inspect
- Compatibility and Red Flags
- Replacement Overview
- Cost Comparison
- Part Number Reference
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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