Honda Passport Middle Seat Delete: Fabricating a Custom Center Console Storage Container
You’ve just folded down the rear seats in your Honda Passport, staring at all that flat cargo space, and you can’t help but think—there’s got to be a better way to organize this than just throwing everything in a heap.
The Passport’s interior is already brilliantly designed for adventure, with clever storage solutions throughout the cabin. But if you’re the type who likes to customize and maximize every inch of space, a middle seat delete with a custom storage container can transform your SUV into the ultimate road trip machine.
TL;DR
The Honda Passport offers a 60/40 split folding second row, but some owners have removed the rear seats entirely to build sleeping platforms or add extra storage. Custom center console solutions range from 3D-printed storage trays to full console swaps, with the 2024+ models offering a significantly wider console. The 2026 Passport adds even more underfloor storage options, including space for a generator. For the ambitious DIYer, removing the center console requires basic tools and about an hour of work.
Key Takeaways
- The second-row seats are removable with basic hand tools—14mm bolts hold them in place .
- The 2024 Passport center console is significantly wider and can fit a full-size tablet, making it a popular upgrade target .
- 3D-printed storage trays are an affordable way to customize your console for under $20 .
- The 2026 Passport adds underfloor storage for compact camping chairs and even a Honda EU2200i generator .
- Removing the center console yourself is doable with basic tools and trim removal experience .
Why Delete the Middle Seat?
The Honda Passport is built on the same platform as the Pilot, but it skips the third row to give you more cargo space and a roomier cabin. Even with that extra room, some owners want even more flexibility.
More cargo space. Removing the rear seats opens up a massive flat area perfect for camping gear, large equipment, or even a sleeping platform. One forum member described their plan to build a sleeping platform with storage underneath where the seats used to be .
Weight reduction. For those who never use the back seats anyway, taking them out saves weight and can slightly improve fuel economy.
Customization. Some owners just enjoy the challenge of making their vehicle uniquely theirs. A custom center console that replaces the middle seat position can serve as a dedicated storage area for adventure gear.
The Rear Seat Removal Process
The good news is that removing the rear seats from a Passport is easier than you might think. A forum member who completed the job shared their experience:
“I finally got around to taking out the back seat of my Passport. It was easier than I expected. I was able to slide the three plastic bolt covers towards the engine, to access the forward 14mm bolts and I was able to slide the three plastic bolt covers towards the rear, to access the rear 14mm bolts” .
You’ll need a 14mm socket, some trim removal tools to avoid scratching things, and about 30 minutes of your time. The seat itself is heavy, so have a helper or plan your lifting technique carefully.
Center Console Options: Off-the-Shelf vs. Custom
If you’re not ready to completely remove the middle seat, there are still plenty of ways to upgrade your Passport’s storage.
3D-Printed Trays and Inserts
One of the most accessible options for customizing your console is 3D printing. There are community-designed parts available for free download, like the “Larger Console Tray” that’s bigger than the OEM version .
Forum member TurnerScott7_1621201 said: “I bought a used 2019 Honda Pilot that was missing this part. The smaller OEM part was going to cost $30 and I was looking for a good excuse to dive into my 1st 3D printing project… This part fits perfectly and is larger than the OEM of course (which is nice). I had it printed at the local library and it only cost $10” .
This is a perfect example of how a little creativity can give you a customized solution for a fraction of the cost of an OEM part.
The 2024 Console Swap
The 2024 Passport got a major center console redesign. It’s now wider, has a larger integrated armrest, and the storage bin is big enough for a full-size tablet . The tray in front of the shifter can now hold two large smartphones side by side .
Can you swap the new console into an older Passport? The answer is complicated. According to forum discussions:
- The 2024 center console is wider, so bolt points, carpet cutouts, and air ducts will likely be in different locations .
- The wider console may not mate cleanly with the dashboard of a 2023 or older model .
- You’d need to replace the entire console assembly, not just the armrest .
One owner concluded: “To retrofit it, one has to replace the entire center console” . It’s possible, but it’s a major project with no guarantee of a perfect fit.
Homemade Solutions
Sometimes the best solution is the one you build yourself. One forum member, frustrated with the narrow factory armrests, created a homemade test version using basic materials .
Their approach shows that you don’t need a full fabrication shop to improve your Honda’s interior. With some plywood, foam, and upholstery material, you can create a custom center console that fits your exact needs.
The 2026 Passport: A New Standard for Storage
If you’re in the market for a new Passport, the 2026 model pushes storage even further. Inside, you’ll find:
- An open shelf for the front passenger above the glove compartment
- A spacious storage area in the center console
- Door panels with large cupholders that fit tall bottles
- Front seat backs with traditional pockets plus an additional pocket under the headrest on higher trims
But the real story is under the cargo floor. The 2026 Passport features:
- Uncovered underfloor space for a Honda EU2200i generator
- Covered storage for compact camping chairs
- A built-in ledge for an accessory cargo shelf
The TrailSport model even includes imprinted logos in the underfloor storage area, reinforcing the adventure-ready vibe .
How to Remove and Modify Your Center Console
If you’re planning to replace or modify your center console, here’s the basic process based on Honda’s service procedures :
- Remove the center side covers by gently pulling them out to detach the clips.
- Remove the lower cover by taking out the coin pocket, removing the screws, and pulling the cover out to detach the clips. Disconnect any accessory power socket and console light connectors.
- Remove the console side trims by detaching the clips and releasing the hooks on both the driver and passenger sides.
- Remove the console rear trim by pulling it out to detach the clips, and disconnect any rear heater/A/C controls or accessory power socket connectors.
- Remove the center console bolts and screws from both sides, detach the harness clip, disconnect the accessory power socket connector, and lift the console out.
When reinstalling, check if any clips are damaged and replace them if necessary. Make sure all connectors are plugged in properly, and push the clips into place securely.
The Custom Fabrication Route
For the truly ambitious DIYer, fabricating a custom storage container that replaces the middle seat position is a serious project, but the results can be impressive. Here’s how you might approach it:
Measure and design. Start by measuring the space where the seat used to be. Consider what you want to store—coolers, recovery gear, camping equipment—and design your container around those items.
Choose materials. Lightweight but sturdy materials like ¾-inch plywood work well. You’ll want to cover it with automotive carpet or durable fabric to match the interior.
Mounting it securely. Use the existing seat mounting points to secure your container. Those 14mm bolt locations are your best bet for keeping everything safe in a crash.
Add finishing touches. Consider adding dividers, tie-down points, or even a removable lid that doubles as a table surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove the rear seats from my Honda Passport myself?
Yes, the job is straightforward and requires basic hand tools. The seats are secured with 14mm bolts covered by plastic caps that slide out of the way .
Will a 2024 Passport center console fit in my 2023 model?
It’s unlikely to be a direct swap. The 2024 console is wider and has different bolt points, carpet cutouts, and air duct locations . You’d likely need to replace the entire console assembly.
What’s the easiest way to add more console storage to my Passport?
The simplest option is to buy a 3D-printed storage tray that’s larger than the OEM version. They cost around $10-20 at a local library or print shop .
Does the 2026 Passport have better storage than the current model?
Yes, the 2026 model adds underfloor storage for a generator or camping chairs, along with a built-in ledge for an accessory cargo shelf .
Is it safe to remove the rear seats?
The seats are heavy, and you should secure them properly if storing them. More importantly, ensure any custom storage container you build is properly secured to the vehicle’s mounting points to prevent it from shifting in a crash.
Can I swap just the cupholder from a 2024 Passport into an older one?
It might be possible, but the screw points may be slightly different. One forum member suggested the 2023 Pilot cupholder inserts might be a better fit .
Wrapping It Up
The Honda Passport is already one of the best SUVs for adventurous families, with thoughtful storage solutions that make the most of its space. But for those who want to push the boundaries, a middle seat delete with a custom storage container can transform the vehicle into something truly special.
Whether you go for a simple 3D-printed tray, a full 2024 console swap, or an ambitious custom fabrication project, there’s no shortage of ways to make your Passport work harder for your lifestyle. Just remember to secure everything properly and keep safety as your top priority.
What storage mods have you made to your Honda Passport? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
For further reading on Honda Passport modifications and storage solutions:
