The 2010 Honda Pilot is equipped with either the J35Z2 or J35Z3 3.5L V6 engine, both sharing the same firing order and cylinder configuration.
Key Specifications
- Firing Order: 1-4-2-5-3-6
- Ignition System: Coil-on-plug (COP) design
- Fuel System: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Contents
Cylinder Numbering and Bank Identification
Honda’s J-series V6 engines use the following cylinder numbering convention:
Engine Cylinder Layout (Viewed from Front of Vehicle)
Bank 1 (Passenger Side) Bank 2 (Driver Side)
--------------------- -------------------
Front of Vehicle → [1] [2] ← Front of Vehicle
[3] [4]
[5] [6]
Detailed Firing Order Explanation
The firing sequence 1-4-2-5-3-6 is designed to:
- Balance engine vibrations
- Optimize exhaust scavenging
- Maintain proper load distribution on the crankshaft
Ignition System Components
The 2010 Pilot uses a distributorless system with:
- 6 individual ignition coils (one per cylinder)
- Spark plugs with 0.028-0.031″ (0.7-0.8mm) gap
- ECM-controlled timing
Verification Procedures
Visual Inspection Method
- Remove the engine cover (if equipped)
- Verify all ignition coils are securely seated
- Check that coil connectors are properly attached in numerical order
- Inspect spark plug wires (if present) for proper routing
Diagnostic Tool Method
- Connect an OBD-II scan tool
- Check for misfire codes (P0300-P0306)
- Use mode 6 data to monitor individual cylinder misfire counts
- Perform a relative compression test if needed
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Swapping coil connectors between banks
- Incorrect cylinder identification (always verify Bank 1 vs. Bank 2)
- Overtightening spark plugs (can damage the aluminum cylinder head)
Symptoms of Incorrect Firing Order
- P0300 – Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
- P0301-P0306 – Cylinder-specific misfire codes
- Rough idle (vibration noticeable at 600-700 RPM)
- Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
- Reduced fuel economy (10-15% decrease)
- Possible backfiring through the intake or exhaust
Technical Specifications
Torque Specifications
- Spark Plugs: 13 lb-ft (18 Nm)
- Ignition Coil Bolts: 7 lb-ft (9.5 Nm)
- Intake Manifold Bolts: 16 lb-ft (22 Nm)
Service Recommendations
- Always replace spark plugs in sets of 6
- Use only NGK or Denso Iridium spark plugs (Honda OEM specification)
- Apply dielectric grease to coil boots during reassembly
- Clear ECM memory after ignition system service
Additional Resources
For reference, consult:
- Honda Service Bulletin 10-035 (ignition system updates)
- J35 Engine Mechanical section of Honda Service Manual
- ASE Test Reference L1 (Advanced Engine Performance)
