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Honda · Pickup Truck · 2006–2014 Custom Search

Honda Ridgeline YK1

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
5.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants · How we rate

Generations

Engine Overview

The Honda Ridgeline YK1 is available with one engine variant at 253 hp.

3.5L V6 i-VTEC · Petrol· 253 PS
2006 2014

3.5L V6 without cylinder deactivation — the more reliable Odyssey engine. VTEC, 255 hp. Timing belt every 100k mi (interference!). EGR valve clogs regularly. No VCM = no oil consumption disaster.

  • !! Timing Belt (Interference Engine) from 160,000 km

    Belt every 100k mi. Interference engine = catastrophic if it snaps.

    Symptoms: No symptoms — broken belt = engine damage
    680–1,100 $
    Ad timing belt kit J35A6
  • !! A/C Compressor Failure from 80,000 km

    Clutch/bearing wears. Especially 2005-2007.

    Symptoms: A/C stops cooling, clicking when engaged
    400–1,600 $
    Ad AC compressor Odyssey 88320
  • ! EGR Port Carbon Clogging (P0401) from 100,000 km

    EGR ports clog with carbon. Common on all J35A engines.

    Symptoms: Check engine P0401, slightly increased consumption
    150–500 $
    Ad EGR valve J35A6 Odyssey

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Recall: Takata Airbag Inflator

1st-gen Ridgeline (YK1) affected by Takata mass recall. Inflators can rupture on deployment, sending metal fragments toward occupants.

 Low

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Known Problems and Issues +

A total of 8 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda Ridgeline YK1 (2006–2014) — 3 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Other, Suspension, HVAC, Body. Considered reliable: J35A6 (3.5L V6 i-VTEC).

What to watch out for with the Honda Ridgeline? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Honda Ridgeline YK1 have? +
The Honda Ridgeline YK1 has 3 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Honda Ridgeline YK1? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: J35A6 (3.5L V6 i-VTEC). The most reliable engine is the J35A6 (3.5L V6 i-VTEC) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the J35A6 (3.5L V6 i-VTEC).
Which Honda Ridgeline YK1 engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Honda Ridgeline YK1. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 3 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Honda Ridgeline YK1 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Honda Ridgeline YK1 — rated: "Decent". {description} 186 kW V6 in the Ridgeline YK1 is a relaxed workhorse. No sports car feel, but solid towing capacity and refined engine manners. VTM-4 AWD works reliably in everyday use.
Is the Honda Ridgeline YK1 worth buying used? +
The Honda Ridgeline YK1 is a good choice as a used car — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda Ridgeline YK1? +
The Honda Ridgeline YK1 is available with engine variants from 253 to 258 hp. Petrol: J35A6 (3.5L V6 i-VTEC).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee