2017 Honda Ridgeline Reliability ReportB+ grade · low risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2017 Honda Ridgeline
- The system most likely to surface first: engine - vcm system (moderate severity).
- Has 9 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump.
- Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2016 Honda Ridgeline earns a 91.
Is the 2017 Honda Ridgeline Worth Buying?
The 2017 Honda Ridgeline stands out as one of the most practical and reliable unibody pickup trucks on the market. While its robust V6 engine and well-regarded transmission inspire confidence, buyers must be aware of the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system's potential for oil consumption and misfires. With proactive VCM mitigation, this truck is a top-tier choice for years of dependable service.
The 2017 Honda Ridgeline is an outstanding used truck, offering a rare blend of comfort, practicality, and Honda's inherent reliability. While the VCM system is a significant known issue, it is a manageable one. With a proactive approach to VCM mitigation and routine maintenance, this truck will deliver exceptional…
Best Model Years
2017-2020 (post-redesign, prior to 9-speed transmission change in 2020 RTL-E/Black Edition which adds another complexity).
Years to Avoid
No specific years to avoid within the 2nd generation, but ensure VCM has been addressed on any higher-mileage unit.
Biggest Strengths
- Powertrain durability (excluding VCM)
- Excellent ride quality and comfort
- Strong resale value
What Tends to Fail First on the 2017 Honda Ridgeline
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 Honda Ridgeline, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system can lead to excessive oil consumption, fouled spark plugs, and misfires in cylinders that are deactivated (e.g., P0301-P0304 codes). If left unaddressed, this can damage catalytic convert…
Due to the Ridgeline's weight and design, many owners report premature wear of brake pads and warping of rotors, leading to pulsation and reduced braking performance.
The touchscreen infotainment system can occasionally freeze, lag, or spontaneously reboot. While usually a minor annoyance, it can be frustrating for daily use.
2017 Honda Ridgeline Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 Honda Ridgeline most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Ridgeline is still quite new. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. This is also when you might expect the first brake service.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage marks the need for significant fluid changes (transmission, differential, transfer case if AWD), spark plug inspection, and continued brake monitoring. VCM-related oil consumption might begin to manifest for some.
Elevated Risk Zone
The VCM system is more likely to cause issues (misfires, fouled plugs) around this mileage. Suspension components might also start to show signs of wear. Budget for potential VCM mitigation or repair.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the likelihood of VCM-related engine issues increases significantly, potentially requiring major engine work or catalytic converter replacement if unaddressed. Other wear items like engine mounts and accessory belts…
2017 Honda Ridgeline Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Honda Ridgeline on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., VCM-related, major brake job)
How Long Does the 2017 Honda Ridgeline Last?
For best longevity, target a well-maintained Ridgeline with under 80,000 miles to address VCM proactively, or one where VCM mitigation is already in place.
What 2017 Honda Ridgeline Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Unmatched ride comfort and quiet cabin for a pickup truck.
- Versatile bed features like the In-Bed Trunk and dual-action tailgate.
- Excellent all-weather capability with available i-VTM4 AWD system.
- Reliable and powerful V6 engine (when VCM is addressed).
Common Frustrations
- VCM system leads to frustrating oil consumption and misfire issues for some owners.
- Infotainment system can be glitchy, slow, and lacks physical volume knob.
- Fuel economy, while decent for a V6 truck, can be disappointing for a unibody.
- Brakes tend to wear out quickly and rotors warp easily.
Who Should Buy the 2017 Honda Ridgeline?
Best For
- Families needing occasional truck utility with SUV comfort.
- Homeowners who frequently haul gardening supplies or DIY materials.
- Anyone desiring AWD capability without a traditional body-on-frame truck's harsh ride.
Not Ideal For
- Those who frequently tow more than 5,000 lbs or heavy trailers.
- Off-road hardcore adventurers needing extreme articulation and ground clearance.
How the 2017 Honda Ridgeline Compares to Rivals
The Ridgeline offers a unique blend of truck utility with SUV-like comfort and driving dynamics, setting it apart from more traditional body-on-frame rivals. Its reliability often rivals Toyota but with a more refined driving experience.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Frontier (older generations)
- Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon (early 2nd gen)
- Toyota Tacoma (comfort, ride quality, interior space)
Comparable To
- Toyota Tacoma (overall reliability, but Ridgeline has better ride and interior)
2017 Honda Ridgeline Recall History
9 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Ridgeline trucks. Exposure to acids, such as from car wash soaps, can result in the fuel pump feed port cracking.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2017 Ridgeline AWD vehicles manufactured April 1, 2016, to August 11, 2016. Water may enter the rear wiring harness through the connector located under the truck bed drain hole, possibly causing the connection terminals to corrode.
What breaks on the 2017 Honda Ridgeline?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Honda Ridgeline Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Honda Ridgeline. Click any year for its full report.
2017 Honda Ridgeline Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2017 Honda Ridgeline
Parts and accessories matched to your 2017 Honda Ridgeline
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Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
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