Honda Ridgeline · SUV
3.5L V6 Earth Dreams in the Pilot — same J-series but with a manufacturing defect. Recall NHTSA 23V751: incorrectly machined crankshaft journals on 248,999 vehicles (2016-2020). Rod bearing failure without warning, engine replacement $7,800-16,800. VCM oil consumption compounds the problem — low oil + defective bearings = engine death. Check oil at every fill-up. NHTSA opened new investigation in 2024 for non-recalled vehicles.
Refined Pickup V6
209 kW from the J35Y6 make the Ridgeline YK2 the most comfortable pickup in its class. Not the toughest in the segment, but the most pleasant. ZF 9-speed (from 2020) occasionally annoying.
Engine Weaknesses 3
NHTSA 23V751: incorrectly machined crankshaft journals → premature bearing wear → engine failure without warning. 2016-2020 Pilot. Cost without recall: $7,800 (used) to $16,800 (new engine). NHTSA 2024: new investigation for 173 reports on non-recalled vehicles.
Symptoms: Engine knocking, engine failure, won't restart, check engine light
Same VCM issue as J35Y, but more pronounced in the Pilot. Low oil + defective rod bearing journals = accelerated engine death. Check oil level at EVERY fill-up.
Symptoms: Oil consumption, blue smoke, dropping oil level
Same DI issue as J35Y.
Symptoms: Rough idle, power loss
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
Lock-up clutch shudders at 30-60 mph. Honda TSB 17-025/026 — flush with ATF and software update helps. Warranty extension may apply.
From model year 2020 the Ridgeline received the ZF 9HP transmission. Class action lawsuit for harsh shifts and software issues — same problem as Odyssey RL6.
Direct-injection J35Y6 injectors carbon up with city-heavy driving. Clogged injectors cause rough idle and misfires.
Multiple owners report spongy brake pedal and longer stopping distances. Brake fluid contamination and master cylinder failure identified as causes.
CarPlay and Android Auto disconnect frequently or fail to connect. Software updates partially address the issue — widely reported in US forums.
