PROBLEM GUIDE

2017 Honda Ridgeline Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated August 2026

337

complaints filed for the 2017 model year

2017

Model years affected

$7,500+

Typical repair cost, by problem

This is a partial generation, beginning with the 2017 model year. Connecting rod bearing failures cause catastrophic engine seizure — described as a "manufacturing error" in the confirmed recall — but most NHTSA complainants report their VINs fall outside the recall's covered range despite exhibiting identical failure modes.

Quick Scan: 14 Issues

Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.

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PROBLEM DETAILS

Connecting rod bearing failure, catastrophic engine seizure

VINs outside the recall's covered range despite matching symptoms

Check engine light: On

Connecting rod bearing failures cause catastrophic engine seizure — a "manufacturing error" per the confirmed recall (23V751000), with rod knock reported at mileages ranging 28,000-155,000 and metal shavings in the oil. Most NHTSA complainants report their VINs fall OUTSIDE the recall's covered range despite exhibiting identical failure modes to recalled vehicles.

$7,500+28,000 – 155,000 mi

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Torque converter failures, hard shifting

Error codes P0776, P0741

Check engine light: On

Torque converter failures, clutch pressure issues, and hard shifting, juddering, and slipping (error codes P0776, P0741) are documented.

$7,500+

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Rear subframe corrosion at suspension mounting points

Same recall campaign as the Acura MDX,

Check engine light: Off

Rear subframe corrosion affects suspension mounting points — recall 26V365000, the same campaign that covers the Acura MDX, which shares this platform.

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Fuel injector failure at low mileage

Causes catalytic converter damage

Check engine light: On

Fuel injector failures at low mileage cause catalytic converter damage, addressed via extended warranty rather than a recall.

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Random alarm activation, dashboard flickering

Battery drain requiring multiple replacements

Check engine light: On

Random alarm activation occurs with dashboard flickering; battery drain requires multiple battery replacements, and Stop/Start button failures are also reported.

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Water enters the rear wiring harness

VSA system activation issues — recall 16V888000

Check engine light: Off

Water entering the rear wiring harness causes corrosion and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system activation issues — recall 16V888000.

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Tailgate Will Not Open Because Sensor Rod Is Too Long

The tailgate will not open because the sensor rod is too long

Check engine light: Off

The tailgate will not open because the sensor rod is too long. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 31 owner reports on file.

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Noise and Judder on Turns Due to Differential Fluid Breakdown

Noise and judder on turns occur due to differential fluid breakdown

Check engine light: Off

Noise and judder on turns occur due to differential fluid breakdown. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 21 owner reports on file.

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Poor Connection in Antenna Harness May Cause Static When Going Over Bumps

A poor connection in the antenna harness may cause static when going over bumps

Check engine light: Off

A poor connection in the antenna harness may cause static when going over bumps. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 19 owner reports on file.

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Check Engine and D4 Lights Flashing

The check engine light and D4 light flash

Check engine light: On

The check engine light and D4 light flash. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 17 owner reports on file.

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Shim to Correct Chirping Timing Belt

A shim corrects a chirping timing belt

Check engine light: Off

A shim corrects a chirping timing belt. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 13 owner reports on file.

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Engine Idle Speed Is Erratic or Engine Stalls

Engine idle speed is erratic, or the engine stalls

Check engine light: On

Engine idle speed is erratic, or the engine stalls. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 11 owner reports on file.

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Check Engine Light for Running Rough and Difficulty Starting

The check engine light illuminates for running rough and difficulty starting

Check engine light: On

The check engine light illuminates for running rough and difficulty starting. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 10 owner reports on file.

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Check Engine Light and Engine Takes Too Long to Start

The check engine light illuminates and the engine takes too long to start

Check engine light: On

The check engine light illuminates and the engine takes too long to start. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 10 owner reports on file.

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Most owners report their VINs fall outside recall 23V751000's covered range despite matching symptoms. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

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