Honda’s ECON mode is easily activated with the touch of a button. It adjusts your vehicle’s throttle response and aircon systems to help you improve fuel consumption by up to 9.5%.

Stopping off for gas can feel like it’s getting more expensive every single time, so we’re all on the lookout for ways to save fuel. Luckily, most modern cars now come with eco mode. In the Honda Pilot, that comes in the shape of the ECON button.

In this article, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about what ECON mode is and how to use it in your Honda Pilot.

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What is Honda ECON mode?

You’ll find the Honda ECON button on the left-hand side of the Pilot’s steering wheel. Pressing it once turns on the ECON mode, which helps improve fuel economy by adjusting the performance of the engine, air conditioning, and cruise control.

While driving in ECON mode, you’ll likely notice more sluggish acceleration and less powerful air conditioning. If you’re looking to stay cool on a hot day or overtake another car on the highway, ECON mode won’t necessarily be your friend—but it will save you money.

Here’s how it works:

Optimizes shifting patterns. The optimized CVT (continuously variable transmission) and transmission shift patterns help you maximize your fuel economy by minimizing transmission up-shifts.

Reduces throttle opening. Throttle control comes into action when you try to accelerate quickly, only opening the throttle half as much as if ECON mode wasn’t being used. It doesn’t have any impact on normal acceleration.

Reduces air conditioning power. ECON mode limits climate control in the PIlot, reducing how long the air conditioning compressor runs, how much energy it uses, and how often it’s engaged. This reduces the fan speed, internal circulation, and general power of the AC, so it will take longer for the car to feel cool.

Reduces fuel injection. The ECON button also reduces the amount of fuel injected at certain points when you’re driving, which helps to use less fuel.

Reduces downshifting. ECON mode downshifts less frequently while using cruise control, prioritizing fuel economy over performance.

Does Honda ECON mode save fuel?

According to Honda dealers, using ECON mode will improve your car’s fuel efficiency by around 1 to 2 miles per gallon. The company suggests that your fuel consumption will decrease by 9.5% while driving in ECON.

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What’s the difference between Honda Normal mode and ECON mode?

Normal mode is Honda’s name for its default driving mode. The main difference between this and ECON mode is that none of the fuel efficiency restrictions are employed when driving in normal mode. From the acceleration to the air conditioning, everything will work at full power—but you will use more fuel.

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How to turn Honda ECON mode on and off

It’s simple to turn the ECON mode on—as simple as pressing a button. You’ll know if ECON mode is on because a small plant symbol will appear on the visual display screen with ECON ON written next to it. The color of the ambient meter will also change to green to indicate that the vehicle is being driven in a fuel-efficient way.

Is Honda ECON mode worth it?

There’s no simple answer to this question. Using ECON mode isn’t likely to change your world in terms of gas savings, and using it often can impact your driving enjoyment. You’ll notice jerkier acceleration and less power overall. If you live somewhere hot, you’ll also notice that it takes longer for the A/C to kick in.

These factors might mean that you don’t use ECON mode very often, but even being aware of it could help your driving in the long run. There are clear advantages to avoiding harsh acceleration and shifting, so developing better driving habits will be good for your gas bill and keep you safer on the roads.

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