2026 Honda Passport Maintenance Schedule
The 2026 Honda Passport, especially the TrailSport trim, is built to be abused. It is designed to climb rocky grades at Kaw Lake, tow 5,000 lbs of boat, and handle the dust of Oklahoma backroads. But with great capability comes great mechanical responsibility.
Unlike a Civic that lives on the highway, a Passport used for adventure falls under Honda's "Severe Driving Conditions" category. This guide cuts through the generic advice to give you the real maintenance schedule for a rugged SUV in Ponca City.
The "Severe Duty" Difference
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If you do any of the following, you are a "Severe" driver:
- Drive on gravel or dirt roads (Dust kills engines).
- Tow a trailer or boat.
- Drive in temperatures over 90°F (Welcome to Oklahoma).
- Take trips less than 5 miles (The engine doesn't reach operating temp).
The Risk: Following the "Normal" schedule on a "Severe" use vehicle will lead to premature wear on your differentials and transmission.
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Critical Service Intervals: Ponca City Schedule
Ignore the "10,000-mile" myths. Here is what your Passport actually needs to survive 200,000 miles.
| Mileage |
Service Item |
Why It’s Critical |
| 5,000 Miles |
Oil Change & Tire Rotation |
The 3.5L V6 holds 5.7 quarts of 0W-20 Synthetic. TrailSport tires must be rotated strictly to prevent "cupping" and road noise. |
| 15,000 Miles |
Rear Differential Fluid |
The #1 Neglected Service. The i-VTM4® AWD system uses clutches to vector torque. Dirty fluid causes "binding" (groaning noise in turns). |
| 15,000 Miles |
Air Filters (Engine & Cabin) |
Oklahoma dust clogs these rapidly. A dirty engine filter hurts MPG; a dirty cabin filter strains your A/C compressor. |
| 30,000 Miles |
Transmission Fluid |
The new 10-Speed Automatic is complex. Fresh fluid ensures crisp shifts and cooler operation while towing. |
| 30,000 Miles |
Transfer Case Fluid |
Lubricates the gears that send power to the rear driveshaft. Essential for AWD health. |
The 10-Speed Transmission Warning
For 2026, the Passport upgraded from a 9-speed to a 10-Speed Automatic Transmission.
- CRITICAL: This transmission requires Honda ATF Type 2.0.
- DO NOT USE: Honda ATF Type 3.1 (used in the old 9-speed) or generic "Universal" ATF.
- The Danger: Using the wrong fluid will damage the internal clutches and void your warranty. Only the dealership carries the correct Type 2.0 fluid.
TrailSport Specific Maintenance
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If you own a TrailSport, you have unique hardware that needs attention.
- Skid Plates: After off-roading, check for trapped mud or rocks between the skid plate and the oil pan. This debris can trap heat and "bake" your engine oil.
- All-Terrain Tires: The General Grabber™ A/TX tires are aggressive. We recommend checking the alignment annually, as hitting ruts and rocks can knock it out of spec, ruining your expensive tires.
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Decoding the Dashboard: Maintenance Minder™
Your Passport will tell you what it needs via codes (e.g., A16).
- Code A: Replace Engine Oil.
- Code B: Replace Oil + Filter + Inspect Brakes/Suspension.
- Sub-Code 1: Rotate Tires.
- Sub-Code 3: Replace Transmission Fluid.
- Sub-Code 6: Replace Rear Differential Fluid (The "AWD Code").
Trust the Heavy-Duty Experts
At Heather Cannon Honda, we sell more Passports and Ridgelines than almost anyone else. We know what red dirt does to a chassis. We know that "Lifetime Fluid" is a myth for anyone who actually uses their hitch.
Don't let a quick-lube shop guess with your $50,000 adventure machine. Schedule your "Severe Duty" service with the experts who know your truck best.
Service Department
Service Parts and Coupons
May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)
*Any MPG listed is based on model year EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid only) and other factors. For additional information about EPA ratings, visit http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/label/learn-more-PHEV-label.shtml .
