Oil, filter and service '03 w/ 76k

[seahawkfankk]

I just got my 2003 Pilot last week. I am taking it in for an oil change and service. My local mechanic (I am not close to a Honda dealer) does not typically stock synthetic oil. That said I am going to purchase my own oil and filter. I think I think I will go with synthetic Mobil 5-30 and extended guard Fram filter. My Pilot has 76k miles. What other things should I have them check? I know timing belt since it is most likely the original. I take it in Friday. Any advice is appreciated as this is our "kid hauler" that we plan to have for 5+ years. I live in Western South Dakota where the temperatures get very low.

Thanks in advance.

[humanoid]

Why are you getting 5w30 instead of the recommended 5w20?

[chas22]

2004 Pilot, Changed my timing belt at 105,000 and still looked like new. Best bet is to use OEM parts. I run Castrol 5w20 and Wix or Purolator filters every 3500 to 4000 miles. Wouldn't use a Fram if it was buy 1 get 2 free. You may want to change the trans fluid, rear axel fluid and air filter.

[seahawkfankk]

OK thanks for the advice.

I was going to use 5w30 because I did not get the owners manual with the vehicle so I came here for expert advice on Pilots. I went with what I ran in my previous cars. Thanks humaniod.

Thanks also chas I have always used Fram filters but I am more then happy to look elsewhere if I have a better option.

[xGS]

The 2003 owner's manual is available here: 2003 Honda Pilot Owner's Manual

Given that your winter temperatures could reach down to -30F, you might want to consider using the optional 0W-20 engine oil instead of 5W-20.
Either way, synthetic oil will ease cold starts. Most, if not all, 0W-20 oils are synthetic.

The standard Honda filter is made by Fram and appears similar to the Tough Guard version.
The Xtended Guard version is a step up from that.
No one seems to have had a problem with the standard Honda filter.
Don't forget a new crush washer for the drain plug.

If you don't have the service records for the vehicle, it wouldn't hurt to change the VTM-4 (rear differential) fluid, transmission fluid, radiator coolant and brake fluid.
It's important to use genuine Honda fluids.

When you have the timing belt replaced, the water pump, accessory belts and hydraulic tensioner should be replaced, as well.

Have the battery load tested, especially if it's still the original and even if it's been replaced.
4-5 years seems to be the typical lifespan.
Better to find out if it's weak, now, rather than when the temperatures are sub-freezing.

Check (or replace) the engine air filter and the cabin air filter.

While the Pilot is up on a lift, you might want to have the condition of the CV joint rubber boots checked and look at the shock absorbers for any sign of fluid leakage.

Believe it or not, a few owners have had a spark plug become loose.
You might want to have them retorqued, or, given their age, replaced.

[samc]

Regardless of what others will tell you, frams are just fine. 5w-20 is the recommended but if you can't then 5w-30 is just fine as well. Other options are... whatever filter is on sale. Seriously. Don't forget to change that crush washer, I know alot of mechanics don't bother with it or simply don't care.

xGS suggestions above ^ ^

[Arizonaadam]

There's not much to be added to the good advice here, but I'm incorrigible.

If you want to go blind reading about oil/filter choices (as I often do), try

Bob Is The Oil Guy - Forums powered by UBB.threads™

You can't go wrong with Mobil 1, and the best Fram filters get pretty good reviews. If you're buying your own, consider waiting for a Black Friday deal at this point. Deals on oil are discussed at

Product Rebates, Sales and Promotions - Bob Is The Oil Guy

Welcome to the piloteers, btw.

[seahawkfankk]

Thanks a lot for the advice from all of you. I am going w. Mobil 5w-20 and an extended guard Fram filter. I will mention the crush washer, rear dif., tranny fluid and other things to my mechanic also. Thanks again.