According to Au7o's analysis of 1,249+ owner reports, the 2006-2023 Honda Ridgeline has 11 documented known issues, with 7 rated critical. The most serious are VCM System - Excessive Oil Consumption and Misfires ($81-$8,000 repair), Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858) ($0-$1,200 repair), Radiator Cross-Contamination (SMOD) - Catastrophic Transmission Failure ($300-$6,000 repair), Brake Master Cylinder Separation Recall (NHTSA 23V-458) ($0-$1,500 repair), 10-Speed Transmission - Rough Shifting and Programming Defect ($200-$6,000 repair), Honda Sensing - Collision Mitigation False Braking ($0-$600 repair) and Spark Plugs Backing Out - Coil Pack Melting and Engine Damage ($150-$8,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is VCM System - Excessive Oil Consumption and Misfires with 200 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $50 to $8,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline, variable Cylinder Management (VCM) deactivates 3 cylinders during light-load driving to improve fuel economy. When inactive cylinders reactivate, vacuum pulls oil past piston rings into the combustion chamber, causing excessive oil consumption (1 quart per 1,000-1,500 miles vs. normal 1 quart per 3,000-5,000). Oil burning causes spark plug fouling, misfires, rough idle, and accelerated catalytic converter wear. 2013 class action lawsuit identified 1.6 million affected Honda vehicles including 2006-2013 Ridgelines.
Excessive oil consumption (1 quart per 1,000-1,500 miles)
Engine misfire codes P0300-P0306
Fouled spark plugs with carbon buildup and wet deposits
Rough idle or hesitation
Check engine light illuminated
Blue or gray smoke from exhaust
Excessive engine vibration when VCM activates
How to Fix
Disable VCM using aftermarket devices: VCMuzzler II ($81), VCMTuner II ($150-$200), or S-VCM Controller ($180-$250). Check oil level every 500-1,000 miles until VCM disabled. Use synthetic 0W-20 oil. Replace spark plugs every 30,000-50,000 miles instead of 100,000. Severe engine damage may require rebuild ($4,000-$8,000).
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 200+ owners who fixed this issue
UpgradeVCMuzzler II ($81) is most recommended for budget-conscious owners - simplest install, no power wire needed, 1-minute installation
High Confidence200 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
65 owners
On the 2006-2010 Honda Ridgeline 3.5L J35, the 3.5L aluminum engine with steel spark plugs experiences thermal stress due to temperature differences. Spark plugs back out (loosen) due to aluminum block expansion/contraction cycles, causing misfires and potentially breaking inside the combustion chamber. Loose spark plugs allow coil packs to melt and enter the engine block causing catastrophic damage. After 60,000 miles, Honda service bulletins specify spark plug torque should be double-checked. Affects all J35 engine platforms (Pilot, Odyssey, Ridgeline).
Complete engine failure if melted coil enters combustion chamber
Engine won't start (broken/loose plugs)
How to Fix
At 60,000 miles: remove spark plugs and re-torque to proper spec (18 ft-lbs) using torque wrench. Inspect each plug for backing out or looseness. Use OEM Honda spark plugs only. Coil pack replacement if melted: $150-$300 per coil + labor. Engine head repair if melted coil damaged head: $1,500-$3,000+. Full engine rebuild if catastrophic: $4,000-$8,000+.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 65+ owners who fixed this issue
TipUse torque wrench when installing spark plugs - do not over-tighten (18 ft-lbs spec exactly)
TipAlways work on engine when completely cool - aluminum expands significantly when hot and causes incorrect torque readings
TipCheck spark plug torque at 60,000 miles and every 30,000 miles thereafter as preventive maintenance
UpgradeUse OEM Honda plugs at $3-$5 each - aftermarket plugs from different manufacturers may have inconsistent heat ranges
Medium Confidence65 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
75 owners
On the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline, nHTSA investigation EA25-004 covers 2.2 million Honda vehicles including 2020-2023 Ridgeline for idle stop and go (ISG) system failure to restart engine after automatic shutdown at stop lights. Vehicle may fail to automatically restart when stop ends, requiring driver to manually restart by shifting to Park and pressing ENGINE START/STOP button. Honda released TSBs 23-008, 23-009, 23-010 with two-stage remedy: Stage 1 involves PCM software update; Stage 2 (if software fails) involves starter assembly or relay replacement with 10-year unlimited mileage warranty extension. Despite repairs, NHTSA continues receiving complaints of failures even on vehicles with TSB applied.
Common Symptoms
Engine fails to automatically restart when traffic resumes
Requires manual restart by pressing ENGINE START/STOP button
Intermittent failures (sometimes restarts, sometimes doesn't)
Check engine light appearing with starting system codes
How to Fix
Stage 1: Visit Honda dealer for PCM software update (free under warranty) - TSB 23-008, 23-009, 23-010 references. Labor: 1-2 hours. Stage 2 (if software doesn't resolve): Replacement of starter motor or related relays. Starter replacement: $300-$500 + labor. Relay replacement: $50-$150 + labor. Free if within extended warranty (10 years unlimited miles per TSB). Out-of-warranty cost: $350-$800.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 75+ owners who fixed this issue
TipGet TSB updates completed as soon as possible - Stage 1 software update solves many cases at no cost
TipDocument all ISG failures with date, time, temperature, and traffic conditions for warranty escalation if issues continue
TipDisable ISG manually if experiencing repeated failures - use infotainment settings (workaround, not fix)
TipKeep battery in excellent condition - weak battery may exacerbate ISG restart issues
TipReport continued failures to Honda corporate after TSB completion - NHTSA investigation ongoing and additional recalls may be forthcoming
NoteDon't ignore issue - inability to restart at traffic light creates traffic safety hazard and intersection blocking
High Confidence75 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
150 owners
On the 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline, the radiator internal cooler corrodes at seams and fittings, allowing coolant to mix with transmission fluid in a condition known as "SMOD" (Strawberry Milkshake Of Death). This coolant contamination destroys all clutch packs and friction materials in the 5-speed transmission. 2006-2008 models see highest failure rates, particularly in rust-belt states past 80,000-120,000 miles. Unlike manufacturer recalls, Honda did not formally recall despite numerous failures.
Common Symptoms
No drive or reverse suddenly
Transmission refuses to engage gears
Pink or milky transmission fluid (coolant mixed with ATF)
Rough shifting before complete failure
Transmission overheating
Loss of power during acceleration
How to Fix
Proactive radiator replacement at 100,000 miles as preventive maintenance ($300-$600). If SMOD has occurred: full transmission rebuild or replacement ($4,000-$6,000). Use Honda ATF 3.1 or equivalent. Many owners replace radiator every 100k miles as insurance policy.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 150+ owners who fixed this issue
UpgradeReplace radiator at 100k miles with OEM or Denso radiator as preventive measure - $300-600 prevents $4,000+ transmission replacement
High Confidence150 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
95 owners
On the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline, the 10-speed automatic transmission (replaced 6-speed from 2017-2019) exhibits rough and delayed shifting, loud noises during gear changes, sudden harsh accelerations/decelerations, jerking at all speeds, and sudden loss of power. Class action lawsuit alleges programming defect where the transmission control module doesn't communicate properly with powertrain control module, causing gear shifting to be mistimed. Common complaint: transmission slip followed by hard shift from 2nd to 3rd gear occurring nearly every time under harder acceleration, hill climbing, or with weight in bed.
Common Symptoms
Rough or delayed shifting between gears
Transmission jerking or hesitation
Loud clunking or banging during shifts
Sudden loss of power or acceleration
Transmission slip followed by hard shift
Check engine light with transmission codes
Issues worse when under load (towing, bed weight, hills)
How to Fix
Perform transmission software update at Honda dealer (may help but may not fully resolve). Transmission fluid change using Honda ATF (specific type for 10-speed) every 30,000 miles: fluid cost $40-$80 + labor $150-$250 = total $200-$330. Check for transmission recall status with VIN. Full transmission replacement if programming update and fluid service don't resolve: $4,000-$6,000. Class action lawsuit may provide compensation.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 95+ owners who fixed this issue
TipGet proper diagnosis before assuming catastrophic transmission failure - shift problems often correctable with software updates
TipFollow aggressive fluid change schedule (every 30k miles) rather than Honda's 100k mile recommendation - extends transmission life
TipDealers can perform transmission software update - this has resolved issues in some cases at no cost under warranty
UpgradeUse ONLY Honda-approved ATF for 10-speed transmission - wrong fluid type worsens shifting and causes damage
High Confidence95 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
70 owners
On the 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline, aWD Ridgelines experience noise and juddering from the rear differential, particularly when turning. The differential fluid breaks down prematurely due to contamination from clutch wear debris, condensation, or water intrusion. Water can enter through the breather tube vent in the rear subframe, especially after launching boats or driving through deep water. Low or contaminated differential fluid causes clutch noise and binding on turns.
Common Symptoms
Humming or whining noise from rear axle
Judder or binding when turning
Clicking noise during turns
Vibration in rear end during cornering
Metallic grinding sound from rear
Noise increases with temperature
How to Fix
Replace rear differential fluid with Honda DPSF (Dual Pump System Fluid): 2 quarts needed ($40-$60 for fluid) + labor ($80-$120) = total $120-$180. Check differential fluid level by removing fill plug - should be at bottom of hole. Change fluid every 30,000-50,000 miles. Avoid launching boats or driving through water covering tires. Differential replacement if severely damaged: $800-$1,500.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 70+ owners who fixed this issue
TipChange differential fluid every 30k-50k miles, NOT following original 100k mile maintenance schedule - prevents premature breakdown
UpgradeUse ONLY Honda DPSF fluid - different fluid specifications can cause clutch slipping and damage
Medium Confidence70 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
180 owners
On the 2017-2020 Honda Ridgeline, nHTSA recall 23V-858 affects 2.5+ million Honda and Acura vehicles including 2017-2020 Ridgelines. The Denso-branded fuel pump impeller was improperly molded with low-density material that deforms over time and interferes with the fuel pump body. Pump becomes inoperative, causing difficulty starting, engine stalling while driving (safety hazard), or complete no-start. This is an expansion of earlier recalls 20V-314 and 21V-215. Remedy parts were delayed causing extended wait times until Fall 2024.
Check Honda recall website with VIN at owners.honda.com. Contact Honda customer service: 1-888-234-2138. Schedule dealer appointment for FREE fuel pump module replacement. Confirm parts are in stock before scheduling (critical - parts were severely delayed). Keep fuel tank above 1/2 full as workaround until repair. Out-of-pocket replacement: $600-$1,200. Under recall: FREE.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 180+ owners who fixed this issue
NoteCheck recall status with VIN immediately - this is a critical safety issue that can cause stalling while driving
TipKeep fuel tank above 1/2 full while waiting for recall repair - reduces stalling risk by maintaining fuel pressure
TipParts availability was severely delayed through Fall 2024 - call dealership to confirm parts in stock before scheduling appointment
NoteIf engine stalls while driving, safely pull over immediately and call for tow truck - do not make unnecessary trips
TipOwners who paid out-of-pocket may be eligible for reimbursement per recall plan - keep all receipts
High Confidence180 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
124 owners
On the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline, the tie rod fastener connecting the brake booster and brake master cylinder may have been improperly assembled during manufacturing. Loose or missing nuts allow the brake master cylinder to separate from the brake booster assembly, causing complete loss of brake function - extreme safety hazard and crash risk. NHTSA reports 124,077 potentially affected vehicles with approximately 1% exhibiting the defect. Issue first discovered December 2020; first brake failure complaint received December 2022.
Common Symptoms
Soft or spongy brake pedal
Brake pedal goes to floor with no resistance
Increased stopping distance
Brake warning light illuminated
Brake failure (catastrophic - complete loss of braking ability)
How to Fix
Contact Honda customer service: 1-888-234-2138 IMMEDIATELY. Check recall status with VIN at owners.honda.com. Schedule emergency dealer appointment for FREE brake booster assembly inspection/repair. Dealers will inspect tie-rod studs and replace brake booster if necessary at no charge. If soft brake pedal present: DO NOT continue driving - call for tow truck. Out-of-pocket brake booster replacement: $800-$1,500. Under recall: FREE.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 124+ owners who fixed this issue
NoteDO NOT IGNORE soft or mushy brake pedal - this is life-threatening safety issue that can cause accidents
NoteCheck recall status with VIN IMMEDIATELY - this affects brake safety and approximately 124,000 vehicles
NoteIf experiencing brake issues, stop driving immediately and have vehicle towed to dealer - brake failure is catastrophic
TipIf brake pedal feels different than normal, have inspected before problem worsens - early detection prevents accidents
TipSoft brakes often dismissed as normal wear - get dealer inspection if any doubt about brake pedal feel
High Confidence124 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
85 owners
On the 2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline, honda Sensing collision mitigation braking system (CMBS) gives false alarms and phantom braking, particularly during left-hand turns through intersections with opposite traffic, and on windy roads. The forward collision warning also fails to alert in actual collision scenarios. NHTSA investigation EA21-005 covers 2017-2022 models (focus on Accord/CR-V but Ridgeline also affected). ODI received 1,294 consumer complaints regarding unexpected AEB activation, with data indicating 47 crashes and 93 injuries potentially linked to phantom braking. Honda attributed some issues to radar positioning.
Common Symptoms
Sudden automatic braking when no obstacle present (phantom braking)
False collision warnings during turns
Braking triggered on windy roads
System brakes when turning left through intersection
Forward collision warning fails when actual collision imminent
Inconsistent system behavior
Unexpected deceleration in traffic
How to Fix
Contact Honda dealer for radar re-calibration/repositioning (available free under warranty). Honda software updates address some phantom braking scenarios. Radar sensors may need replacement if defective: $400-$600. Full Honda Sensing system recalibration: $200-$400 labor. Some owners disable system via infotainment menu if persistent issues (reduces safety features).
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 85+ owners who fixed this issue
TipMany owners reported phantom braking on Ridgeline forums - request radar re-calibration at dealer as this has resolved many reported cases
TipDon't dismiss false braking as driver error - issue is real and documented in 1,294+ NHTSA complaints with 47 crashes
TipDocument phantom braking incidents with location, weather, and driving conditions for warranty claim support
TipSoftware updates released - ensure dealer updates your vehicle to latest Honda Sensing version to reduce phantom braking
NoteWindy weather and left turns through intersections are known trigger scenarios - be prepared for unexpected braking
TipNHTSA investigation EA21-005 ongoing - stay updated on future TSBs or recalls that may be issued
Medium Confidence85 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
110 owners
On the 2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline, center console infotainment touchscreen goes completely black or becomes unresponsive on 2017-2023 models. System may enter infinite shutdown loop draining battery overnight. Software glitches across all model years and loose fuse connections cause complete audio/navigation system failure. Class action lawsuit (2019) alleged multiple defects including crashes, freezes, failure to start/shut down, and failure to connect to smart devices. Honda issued multiple TSBs starting November 2017, but plaintiffs claimed Honda unable to fix defects across multiple service attempts.
Common Symptoms
Center touchscreen completely black with no display
Touchscreen frozen or unresponsive to touch
Infinite reboot loop while parked
Loss of radio, navigation, and climate controls
Battery drain when vehicle is off
System crash during use
Wireless connectivity failures
How to Fix
Check fuse box for loose fuse controlling infotainment - reseat if loose (common fix). Perform hard reset: hold power button 10 seconds or disconnect battery 10 minutes. Visit Honda dealer for software update (free under warranty) - TSB updates available. Persistent issues may need complete infotainment unit replacement: factory replacement $800-$1,500 + labor $200-$400 = total $1,000-$1,900. Aftermarket head unit option: $400-$800.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 110+ owners who fixed this issue
TipCheck for loose fuse before assuming unit failure - very common and free fix that solves many black screen issues
TipHard reset sometimes resolves temporary glitches - try before dealer appointment (hold power 10 seconds or disconnect battery)
TipRequest Honda dealer TSB software update - free under warranty and resolves many issues without hardware replacement
TipDocument all system failures with photos/videos for warranty support - helps escalate case to Honda corporate if needed
NoteIf screen drains battery overnight, disconnect infotainment fuse until dealer repair to avoid being stranded with dead battery
TipMultiple service attempts by dealer common - may require escalation to Honda corporate for persistent issues beyond dealer capability
UpgradeHigh-performance AGM battery with excellent cold cranking amps and deep cycle capability (Optima RedTop AGM Battery)
High Confidence110 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
95 owners
On the 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline, the Ridgeline's unique in-bed trunk has drainage holes and weep holes designed to channel water out. These drainage holes frequently clog with leaves, pine straw, tree debris, pollen, and mildew. When clogged, rainwater and vehicle washing accumulate inside the trunk, causing rust, odor, and rendering storage unusable. The trunk gutter channel and lower perimeter drain holes require periodic cleaning. Some cases involve improper latch alignment or twisted weatherstripping seals.
Common Symptoms
Inches of standing water inside in-bed trunk after rain
Water that won't drain after car wash
Musty smell from trunk area
Rust and corrosion visible inside trunk
Debris and leaves accumulating in water
Water dripping from trunk while driving
How to Fix
Preventive maintenance: inspect and clean all 10 bed drainage holes and trunk perimeter weep holes quarterly. Clear gutter channel around trunk opening of debris. Clean small drain holes at bottom of gutter channel. Verify trunk latch alignment - improper alignment prevents seal closure. Inspect and replace weatherstripping seals if twisted or loose ($50-$150). Dealer inspection: $100-$200.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 95+ owners who fixed this issue
TipClean drainage holes every 3 months using small wire probe or compressed air - quarterly inspection prevents major flooding issues
TipAfter vehicle wash, check trunk for standing water and ensure all holes are clear
TipInspect weatherstripping seals annually and replace if cracked or twisted - prevents water intrusion
NoteAvoid high-pressure washer spray directed at trunk area - can push debris into drain holes and cause clogs
TipRidgelineOwnersClub has detailed forum threads with photos showing exact drainage hole locations and cleaning procedures
High Confidence95 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
⚠️NHTSA Recalls16 recalls
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Civic, 2020-2023 Ridgeline, 2021-2023 Passport, 2021-2022 Pilot, and 2020 Acura MDX vehicles. The tie rod fastener that connects the brake booster and the brake master cylinder may have been improperly assembled during manufacturing, which can cause the brake master cylinder to separate from the booster assembly.
Campaign #23V45800029/06/2023
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Honda (America Honda Motor Co) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ridgeline vehicles. The rearview camera (RVC) tailgate wire harness may fatigue and break, which can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying.
Campaign #24V32100009/05/2024
STEERING:RACK AND PINION
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023 Passport and Ridgeline vehicles. The inner ball joint housing in the steering gearbox assembly may loosen and detach from the steering rack and result in a loss of steering control.
Campaign #24V18400007/03/2024
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021 Accord Sedan, Accord Hybrid, CR-V, Ridgeline, 2022 Insight and CR-V Hybrid vehicles. The automatic locking retractor on the second-row center seat belt assembly may deactivate improperly, which can result in an unsecured child restraint system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
What are the most common Honda Ridgeline problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,249+ owner reports, the 2006-2023 Honda Ridgeline has 11 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: VCM System - Excessive Oil Consumption and Misfires, Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858), Radiator Cross-Contamination (SMOD) - Catastrophic Transmission Failure. Of these, 7 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Honda Ridgeline reliable?
The 2006-2023 Honda Ridgeline has 11 known issues documented across 1,249+ owner reports. 7 issues are rated critical: VCM System - Excessive Oil Consumption and Misfires and Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858) and Radiator Cross-Contamination (SMOD) - Catastrophic Transmission Failure and Brake Master Cylinder Separation Recall (NHTSA 23V-458) and 10-Speed Transmission - Rough Shifting and Programming Defect and Honda Sensing - Collision Mitigation False Braking and Spark Plugs Backing Out - Coil Pack Melting and Engine Damage. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Honda Ridgeline problems?
Repair costs for known Honda Ridgeline issues range from $0 to $8,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, VCM System - Excessive Oil Consumption and Misfires, typically costs $81-$8,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Honda Ridgeline is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Honda Ridgeline. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2006-2023 Honda Ridgeline with 11 documented issues documented across 1,249+ owner reports.
What is the 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline VCM System - Excessive Oil Consumption and Misfires?
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
Campaign #21V90000018/11/2021
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
Honda (American Honda Motor Co) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Pilot and Ridgeline, and 2020-2022 Passport and Odyssey vehicles. The heating pads behind both side-view mirrors may not be bonded properly, allowing the mirror glass to detach. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) deactivates 3 cylinders during light-load driving to improve fuel economy. When inactive cylinders reactivate, vacuum pulls oil past piston rings into the combustion chamber, causing excessive oil consumption (1 quart per 1,000-1,500 miles vs. n… Repairs typically run $81-$8,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2017-2020 Honda Ridgeline Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858)?
NHTSA recall 23V-858 affects 2.5+ million Honda and Acura vehicles including 2017-2020 Ridgelines. The Denso-branded fuel pump impeller was improperly molded with low-density material that deforms over time and interferes with the fuel pump body. Pump becomes inoperative, causing… Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: high.
What is the 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline Radiator Cross-Contamination (SMOD) - Catastrophic Transmission Failure?
The radiator internal cooler corrodes at seams and fittings, allowing coolant to mix with transmission fluid in a condition known as "SMOD" (Strawberry Milkshake Of Death). This coolant contamination destroys all clutch packs and friction materials in the 5-speed transmission. 20… Repairs typically run $300-$6,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline Brake Master Cylinder Separation Recall (NHTSA 23V-458)?
The tie rod fastener connecting the brake booster and brake master cylinder may have been improperly assembled during manufacturing. Loose or missing nuts allow the brake master cylinder to separate from the brake booster assembly, causing complete loss of brake function - extrem… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline 10-Speed Transmission - Rough Shifting and Programming Defect?
The 10-speed automatic transmission (replaced 6-speed from 2017-2019) exhibits rough and delayed shifting, loud noises during gear changes, sudden harsh accelerations/decelerations, jerking at all speeds, and sudden loss of power. Class action lawsuit alleges programming defect w… Repairs typically run $200-$6,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline Honda Sensing - Collision Mitigation False Braking?
Honda Sensing collision mitigation braking system (CMBS) gives false alarms and phantom braking, particularly during left-hand turns through intersections with opposite traffic, and on windy roads. The forward collision warning also fails to alert in actual collision scenarios. N… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: high.
What is the 2006-2010 Honda Ridgeline Spark Plugs Backing Out - Coil Pack Melting and Engine Damage?
The 3.5L aluminum engine with steel spark plugs experiences thermal stress due to temperature differences. Spark plugs back out (loosen) due to aluminum block expansion/contraction cycles, causing misfires and potentially breaking inside the combustion chamber. Loose spark plugs… Repairs typically run $150-$8,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline Infotainment Touchscreen Black Screen and System Failure?
Center console infotainment touchscreen goes completely black or becomes unresponsive on 2017-2023 models. System may enter infinite shutdown loop draining battery overnight. Software glitches across all model years and loose fuse connections cause complete audio/navigation syste… Repairs typically run $0-$1,900. Severity: medium.
What is the 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline In-Bed Trunk Water Intrusion and Drainage Clogs?
The Ridgeline's unique in-bed trunk has drainage holes and weep holes designed to channel water out. These drainage holes frequently clog with leaves, pine straw, tree debris, pollen, and mildew. When clogged, rainwater and vehicle washing accumulate inside the trunk, causing rus… Repairs typically run $50-$200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline Idle Stop & Go (ISG) - Failure to Restart Investigation?
NHTSA investigation EA25-004 covers 2.2 million Honda vehicles including 2020-2023 Ridgeline for idle stop and go (ISG) system failure to restart engine after automatic shutdown at stop lights. Vehicle may fail to automatically restart when stop ends, requiring driver to manually… Repairs typically run $0-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline Rear Differential Noise and Shuddering (AWD Models)?
AWD Ridgelines experience noise and juddering from the rear differential, particularly when turning. The differential fluid breaks down prematurely due to contamination from clutch wear debris, condensation, or water intrusion. Water can enter through the breather tube vent in th… Repairs typically run $120-$1,500. Severity: medium.
