The Honda Pioneer 700 is one of the best options on the UTV market. It has what it takes to haul various tools and supplies to different locations. It has decent cargo space and comfortable seating. This UTV model offers two different versions.
There is a model with two seats and another with four seats. Despite being made for work purposes, this Honda Pioneer 700 is ideal for recreation too.
The 4WD and suspension systems allow the UTV to tackle off-road obstacles smoothly. Still, there are other Honda Pioneer 700 problems. Some users have complained about common troubles, including a weak battery, starting difficulty, failure in the transmission, shifting issues, and cold engine issues.
This blog post breaks down all the common Honda Pioneer 700 issues. Also, we’ll shed some light on possible remedies.
Most Common Problems with the Honda Pioneer 700
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Honda is a giant brand that makes reliable automobiles and private cars. The Japanese manufacturer is also famous for its motorcycles. However, its line for producing UTVs has a different focus.
Still, the Honda Pioneer 700 is one of the most popular UTVs in the U.S., and for good reasons, including a powerful engine and a bed capacity of 1000 pounds.
The problems associated with the Honda Pioneer 700 are not manufacturing defects. In most cases, these issues are tackled with regular and proper maintenance. Also, keeping an eye on fluid levels and quality might spare you a lot of these issues in the first place.
1. Starting Failure
This problem is found in the Honda Pioneer 700 and the vast majority of UTVs and ATVs. It is a common issue with different 2-stroke engines. This issue is not only frustrating, but it also prevents you from running your Pioneer 700. It is also confusing because it can happen for various reasons.
The most common cause of starting failure is a dead battery. This calls for trying a battery booster until it is full. Typically, your UTV battery will gradually lose its charge when unused for some time. If recharging fails to get the engine going, you should consider a replacement.
Despite being an obvious precaution, some users often forget to set the gearbox into park or neutral. Some even disregard setting the kill switch off. It is advisable to check these two things before running to a nearby maintenance specialist.
2. Sudden Loss of Power
Sluggish performance, followed by power loss, is usually caused by a faulty spark plug. One of the best things about spark plugs is that they are cheap to replace. Also, it is simple to identify worn-out spark plugs.
A functional spark plug is usually light brown or gray. So, a darker color indicates a worn spark plug. That darker color is caused by carbon buildup.
However, if you find the spark plug’s tip white in color, it indicates burning and overheating. In this case, you should consider a replacement, as the condition of burned spark plug cables is unfixable.
3. Inaccurate Oil Readings
The Honda Pioneer 700 is equipped with a semi-dry sump. Such a design removes the function of storing engine oil from the crankcase. The engine lubricant is kept in a separate oil tank in this design. This style increases the engine’s performance and takes up less space inside the UTV’s body.
Despite its efficient design, this sump is prone to giving inaccurate readings when filled with the wrong motor oil. Incorrect lubrication is easily avoidable if you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for lubrication fluid.It is highlighted in the service manual.
Also, you can ask your local dealer. You should opt for Honda Pro GN4 4-cycle oil SAE 10W-30.
If improper oil is used, it is recommended to drain the tank and clean the oil filter fully. Then you can refill the tank with the new fluid.
4. Poor Transmission
The transmission system of your Honda Pioneer 700 is efficient by default. However, there are better ones out there. It only offers the standard positions of N, D, and R. It does not contain the low gear setting, which is extremely useful in high-elevation places.
But aside from this extra feature, you will only feel a problem with the transmission if there is a system fault.
Most transmission issues are associated with decreased or contaminated transmission oil. Ensure you are not mistaking transmission oil for engine oil or vice versa. If the quality and quantity of this fluid check out, then it might be a problem with the clutch or the shift fork. Either of them might be why you are stuck in the same gear.
5. Unusual Performance
Under this title, you’ll find many issues. Unusual performance can describe motor stalling, unusual noises, or vibrations. It can even describe problems associated with strange odors or smoke. The vast majority of these issues are associated with motor oil.
So, it is your homework to check out the condition of the oil. Make sure it is filled to adequate levels. Also, inspect its viscosity. If it is gritty, empty the reservoir immediately; fill it with fresh motor fluid per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
6. Engine Goes Cold
This is a seasonal problem that emerges during the winter. A cold engine takes a lot of time to start. Furthermore, it may not start after all. This is usually associated with the condition of the fuel.
You might be using old fuel sitting in the tank for a long time. Also, the fluid could be contaminated as the fuel filter is no longer functional. This might lead to mixing fuel with debris. Also, the fuel might be mixed with water.
If you suspect the fuel quality, you can drain the tank and replace the filter. Then, you can add fresh gasoline that hasn’t been on the shelf for over a month. Lastly, you can add a fuel stabilizer to maintain the best quality of the fluid.
7. Faulty Diff Lock
Diff or differential lock problems are uncommon, but a few users reported them. This component forces the four wheels to spin at the same speed. The problem with this lock appears when the front tires are spinning at a different speed than the rear ones. This issue often goes unnoticed if you do not observe the wheels spinning.
This issue is usually caused when you drive your Honda Pioneer 700 on too much rocky turf. The nature of such areas will make small rocks find their way inside your UTV.
Hitting and jamming the skid plate will gradually lead to this issue. The best cure for this situation is frequent and thorough cleaning, especially after driving on rocky, steep terrain.
8. Shifting is Restricted
This problem will be obscure to new users. It is often associated with long-term use. In this case, multiple users experienced some difficulty shifting to 3rd gear. It is usually reported after driving over 8,000 miles. Additionally, some users have complained about this issue when it is very cold.
Usually, this problem is caused by jammed engine air filters. Cleaning the filters is possible if the body is not damaged. Replacing the engine oil can be a suitable fix for this issue. However, in many cases, bringing the vehicle to a specialist is required.
Pre-warming the quad might be a suitable remedy if the problem is associated with hash winter. This should happen as you haul your objects at a low speed.
Honda Pioneer 700 Problems: are they a deal breaker?
The Honda Pioneer is an excellent vehicle for use off-road and on rough terrain. The presence of problems does not make it a bad UTV. This UTV is one of the best items, with plenty of power and comfortable seating options. Most of these problems are associated with improper care and even the rider’s misuse.
These problems can be easily avoided if you know the ABCs of UTV maintenance. Keeping a reliable battery charger stored in your Honda Pioneer 700 helps significantly in the event of a sudden power loss.
Also, inspecting the fuel system’s components, such as the fuel filter, air filter, fuel lines, and fuel pump, decreases the chances of starting failure and bogging down. Also, ensuring adequate oil levels and lubricating the engine helps the engine’s well-being.
Lastly, the condition of the battery plays a role in the performance of your Honda Pioneer 700. So, check for loose battery cables or worn-out terminals before opting for a new battery.
Aside from these routine maintenance steps, you should seek professional help. Going to your local dealer or a certified repairman is recommended for more complex engine or transmission problems.
Marvin is an expert in farming equipment with a strong background in agricultural engineering. He graduated from Kansas State College of Agriculture, where he received a degree in Agricultural Engineering and specialized in farm equipment design and maintenance.
