2017 Honda Ridgeline

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline is a unique mid-size pickup truck known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and innovative features like the in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate. All 2017 Ridgelines came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Ridgeline’s car-like handling and fuel efficiency for a truck, but some dislike its limited towing capacity compared to traditional body-on-frame trucks and its unconventional styling.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Variable Timing Solenoid Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminates, engine runs rough, reduced power and fuel economy. Error codes P0011, P0012, P0021, or P0022.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty variable timing solenoid. Ensure the oil is clean and at the proper level, as dirty oil can contribute to solenoid issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor acceleration, and decreased fuel economy. Check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s). A fuel system cleaning may also be recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hard shifts between gears, especially when cold. Hesitation or delay in engaging gears.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush using genuine Honda ATF. If the problem persists, further diagnostics are needed to rule out valve body issues or internal damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for fluid flush, $800+ for valve body replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially under light acceleration. May also experience unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. Verify the transmission fluid is clean and at the proper level.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable fluid leaking from the rear shock absorbers. Bouncier ride, reduced handling stability.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking rear shock absorbers. It’s generally recommended to replace them in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Display Audio System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes intermittently.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1000+ (Head Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a short period, preventing the vehicle from starting.
  • Solution: Inspect the charging system, including the alternator. Check for parasitic draws by testing each fuse in the fuse box. Replace the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Support Cable Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The tailgate support cable breaks, causing the tailgate to drop suddenly and potentially damaging the tailgate or surrounding areas.
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate support cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, sunroof getting stuck in open or closed position, water leaks around the sunroof seal.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor. Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks. Replace the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline presents a mix of potential issues. While some owners experience minor electrical glitches and suspension wear, more significant concerns involve engine and transmission problems. The estimated costs to fix these issues vary widely, with some repairs being relatively inexpensive while others can be quite costly. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchasing.