Correctly lubricating Honda flex cable

This bulletin applies to 2016-2022 Honda Pilot (except LX), 2017-2023 Ridgeline (except RT/RTS/Sport) and 2019-2023 Passport (except Sport) vehicles. You may hear a loud buzzing or whining noise when adjusting the front seat(s) forward/backward. The cause is due to a flex cable in the seat adjustment mechanism that is not correctly lubricated. Replace the flex cable with P/N 81656-T2F-A31.

Remove the seat track end covers to expose the mounting bolts. Prepare the seat for removal by adjusting the seat slide to the middle of its travel. Raise the seat to maximum height (driver seat only). Make note of radio presets and disconnect the 12V battery. Tilt the seat back and disconnect the seat harness. 

Insert a plastic trim tool through the bracket access holes one at a time until the cable is released from the bracket. Disconnect the flex cable from the motor side first by gently pushing in on the motor at the cable end to disengage it from the bracket. Disconnect the other end of the cable from the seat rail gearbox side. Do not bend or kink the cable. The cable may be tight in the gearbox. Use needle-nose pliers to remove the cable.

Install the new flex cable in reverse order. Start by inserting the cable into the seat rail gearbox side, then fully insert the other end into the motor. Do not bend or kink the cable. Snap the cable’s motor end back into the mounting bracket and make sure that the cable is fully inserted and horizontal. Center the flexible plastic tube on the flex cable. Snap the cable back into the plastic bracket and make sure that it is straight. If not straight and flat, it will make noise during seat adjustment. Connect the seat harness and harness clip, then connect the battery. Install the seat and torque the mounting bolts to 34 ft-lb.

Using the i-HDS, perform the Front Passenger Weight Sensor Operation check (if the passenger seat was serviced).