Honda Pilot AC Blowing Hot? Solar Sensor May Be Culprit

Hey there! I had a really similar issue with my 2018 Honda CR-V last summer, and it turned out to be a faulty wiring harness connected to the AC system. The symptoms were exactly like yours, warm air instead of the cool blast I was expecting. Took it to my trusted workshop, and they diagnosed it after running some tests. The whole repair, including parts and labor, set me back about 155 Euro, but it was worth getting it fixed properly rather than trying quick fixes. Quick question though, have you noticed any other electrical issues, like flickering dashboard lights or inconsistent AC fan speeds? These could help pinpoint if you're dealing with the same problem I had. Also, what's your Pilot's mileage? This info would help me share more relevant details about what you might be facing.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Mine's at 167371 KM and had its last service about 2 months ago. You mentioned the wiring harness, that's interesting because I've actually noticed the fan speeds acting a bit wonky lately, sometimes fluctuating without touching the controls. Didn't think these issues might be connected, but now it makes sense! Maybe I should get both checked out at the same time. Before spending money on repairs, did you try any quick troubleshooting steps that might help me rule out simpler issues?

Hey again! As the same user who dealt with the CR-V wiring issue, those symptoms you're describing sound really familiar. When I had my problem, I actually tried a few basic troubleshooting steps before taking it to the shop. First, I checked all the fuses related to the AC system, they were fine in my case, but it's worth checking yours. Then I tried running the AC on different fan speeds while parked, that's when I noticed the weird fluctuations, just like what you're experiencing. The fan speed irregularities combined with the warm air were exactly what I dealt with. Since your mileage is pretty close to what mine was when I had the issue (mine was around 170000 KM), I'm even more convinced it could be the same problem. One quick test you can try: turn your AC to max cool, highest fan setting, and listen for any unusual clicking or humming sounds from behind the dashboard. In my case, there was a subtle clicking noise that turned out to be related to the faulty wiring. I could've saved some time and money if I'd known these symptoms were connected earlier. Definitely mention the fan speed issue when you take it in, it'll help them diagnose it faster than my situation took! Want me to share the specific tests my mechanic ran to confirm it was the wiring harness? They might be helpful for your situation.

I'll complete the conversation from's perspective: Thanks so much for the detailed advice! I just tried the max cool test you suggested, and funny enough, I'm definitely hearing that clicking sound you mentioned. It's like a subtle tick-tick noise that wasn't there before. Yes, I'd love to know what specific tests your mechanic ran, that would be super helpful to mention when I take it in. At least now I feel better knowing I'm not just imagining these issues, and there's actually a connection between the warm air and funky fan speeds. Can't believe I didn't connect these dots earlier! I'll definitely make an appointment to get it checked out this week. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, it's saved me a lot of worry about the solar sensor, which I was initially fixated on. Will update everyone once I get it sorted out! Thanks again for all the help!