The Honda J35A8 is a 3,471 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2014. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC) with 4 valves per cylinder and Honda's VCM system, which deactivates one bank of cylinders under light load for improved fuel economy. In standard form it delivered 271 PS, balancing strong torque with efficiency for Honda's flagship SUV.
Fitted primarily to the second-generation Honda Pilot (YF2 chassis) in North American markets, the J35A8 was engineered for smooth, quiet operation and reliable towing capability. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through its PGM-FI fuel injection and OBD-II diagnostics, meeting US Federal Tier 2 Bin 5 standards upon launch.
One documented characteristic is its use of the VCM-2 system, which improved upon earlier VCM designs by reducing vibration during cylinder deactivation. This is confirmed in Honda's internal powertrain documentation (PT‑2009), which notes its role in the Pilot platform. No major reliability bulletins were issued for this specific variant, though some owners reported VCM-related oil consumption issues.
Honda
Production years 2009–2014 meet applicable US Federal Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards for its model year and market (EPA Certification Docs).
The Honda J35A8 is a 3,471 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for full-size SUVs (2009-2014). It combines SOHC 24-valve architecture with VCM cylinder deactivation to deliver strong low-end torque and improved fuel economy under light loads. Designed to meet US Federal Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions regulations, it offers reliable, refined performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,471 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, SOHC, 24‑valve (VCM) | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 271 PS (199 kW) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 339 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | US Federal Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Timing belt | |
| Oil type | API SM/SN, 5W-20 | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The J35A8's VCM system provides strong, smooth power for towing and highway cruising, with improved fuel economy during light-load conditions. Its higher compression ratio demands adherence to the 105,000 km timing belt replacement schedule, as it is an interference engine. Using the specified 5W-20 API SM/SN oil is critical for optimal VCM operation and engine protection. The engine runs best on regular unleaded fuel and is known for its refined, quiet character.
Oil Specs: Requires API SM/SN grade 5W-20 oil (Honda Owner's Manual Pilot YF2). This viscosity is critical for VCM system operation.
Emissions: Certified to US Federal Tier 2 Bin 5 standards for 2009-2014 model years (EPA Certification Docs).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is fixed by ECU mapping and mechanical design (Honda PT-2009).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS) / Service Manuals: Pilot YF2
Honda Powertrain Specifications Document (PT-2009)
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification Database
The Honda J35A8 was used primarily in Honda's second-generation Pilot platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations and was not licensed to other manufacturers. All applications are documented in OEM parts catalogues.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the exhaust manifold (Honda Service Manual Pilot YF2). The engine can be visually identified by its V6 configuration, single camshaft covers per bank, and the presence of VCM solenoids and actuators. It is distinct from the non-VCM J35A1 and the later direct-injection J35Y variants. Service parts for the VCM system are specific to this engine.
The J35A8's primary reliability risk is VCM system malfunction if neglected, with some incidence of increased oil consumption in specific conditions. Honda's internal quality reports showed minimal warranty claims for major failures. Regular maintenance, particularly timely oil changes with the correct viscosity, ensures its inherent robustness. Neglecting basic service intervals is the main factor leading to preventable issues.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2008-2015) and general automotive engineering principles. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA J35A8.
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