Do all Honda Ridgelines have timing belts?

The concise answer is no. Honda Ridgelines use timing chains to drive the camshafts for their 3.5-liter V6 engines, and this has been the case across both generations (2006–2014 and 2017–present). This reflects Honda’s general shift away from timing belts in its modern V6 lineup. The Ridgeline’s chain-driven setup is designed for longevity, with maintenance focusing on the chain area rather than belt replacement.

Generational overview

First generation (2006–2014)

During the first generation, the Ridgeline was powered by a 3.5 L V6 in the J35 family, and the camshafts are driven by a timing chain rather than a belt. This chain-driven design reduces the need for regular belt replacements and is part of Honda’s standard approach for its V6 engines of that era.

• 2006–2014 Ridgeline — 3.5 L V6 (J35A family) — timing chain

Overall, the first-generation Ridgeline relied on a timing chain, with no scheduled belt maintenance required for the camshafts.

Second generation (2017–present)

The second generation continued with Honda’s 3.5 L V6 and a timing-chain system to drive the camshafts, continuing the belt-free approach established in the earlier model years. The design remained focused on long-life components rather than belt replacement intervals.

• 2017–present Ridgeline — 3.5 L V6 (J35Y/J35Z) — timing chain

In short, the current Ridgeline generation maintains a timing-chain setup, aligning with Honda’s broader strategy for its modern V6 engines.

Maintenance and reliability considerations

Because Ridgelines use timing chains rather than belts, there is no regular, mileage-based replacement interval for the timing system itself. Nevertheless, chain-related components such as the chain, guides, tensioner, and the water pump can wear over time, and they should be inspected during routine service or if symptoms appear.

• Listen for a rattling or slapping noise from the timing area on cold starts or during acceleration, which can indicate chain wear or tensioner issues.


• Plan to inspect or replace the water pump and timing components during major service, especially if high mileage is involved.


• Maintain regular oil changes; clean oil helps preserve chain guides and tensioners in good condition and reduces wear on the timing system.

Bottom line: while timing chains offer long life and reduce belt-maintenance needs, they still require attention and occasional service as the vehicle ages.

Summary

No. All Honda Ridgelines use a timing chain, not a timing belt, across both generations. This approach is standard for the model and aligns with Honda’s current practice on its modern V6 engines. For owners, the focus should be on general engine maintenance and monitoring for chain-related wear rather than belt-specific maintenance.

How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Honda Ridgeline?

The cost to replace a Honda Ridgeline's timing belt typically ranges from $900 to over $2,100, with independent shops being less expensive than dealerships. The exact price depends on the vehicle's model year, the shop's location, and whether OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are used. 
Cost breakdown by shop type

• Independent shops: Expect a cost between $891 and $992, though this can be higher depending on the specific service needed. 
• Dealerships: Costs are typically higher, ranging from approximately $1,549 to $1,713 or more, due to the use of OEM parts and higher labor rates. 

Factors that influence the final cost

• Labor: Replacing the timing belt is a labor-intensive job that requires disassembling many parts to access the belt, which drives up the cost. 
• Parts: Using OEM parts, which are often recommended for timing belts, will increase the price. 
• Additional services: The final bill can increase if you have other components replaced at the same time, such as the water pump, tensioner, or spark plugs. 
• Location: Prices can be higher in metropolitan areas. 

What to do

• Get multiple quotes: It's a good idea to get quotes from both a dealership and independent shops to compare pricing and services. 
• Check for bundles: Ask if a timing belt replacement can be bundled with other recommended services to potentially save money. 
• Consider a tow: If your belt fails unexpectedly, factor in the cost of a tow to get your vehicle to the shop. 

Which Hondas have a timing belt?

2013-2017: V6 models have timing belts & 4-cylinder models have timing chains. 2008-2012: V6 models have timing belts & 4-cylinder models have timing chains. 2003-2007: V6 models have timing belts & 4-cylinder models have timing chains. 1997-2002: Honda timing belt on all engines.

Do Honda Ridgelines have timing belts or chains?

The Honda Ridgeline uses a timing belt, not a chain. All V6 Honda engines, including those in the Ridgeline, use timing belts. You should plan to replace the timing belt around every 105,000 miles, according to sources like Wolfchase Honda and Kelley Blue Book.
 

• Timing belt: This is the component used in all Honda Ridgeline models. 
• Replacement interval: The recommended replacement mileage is around 105,000 miles. 
• Function: The timing belt ensures that the crankshaft and cylinder head are properly synchronized for the engine to function correctly. 

What year to stay away from Honda Ridgeline?

The Honda Ridgeline years to avoid are primarily 2006, 2017, and 2018-2019, due to significant engine and transmission issues. The 2006 model is linked to a specific cylinder failure problem, while the 2017-2019 models suffered from transmission, torque converter, and fuel injector problems, especially on certain trims.
 
This video discusses reasons to avoid the Honda Ridgeline, including its design and off-road capability: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Aug 27, 2025
First generation (2006-2014)

• 2006: Prone to engine failure in the fourth cylinder, often occurring around 100,000 miles. 
• 2006: Other issues include problems with the engine, interior accessories like the gauge cluster, and exterior paint clear coat fading or peeling. 

Second generation (2017-present)

• 2017-2019: These model years are known for issues with the six-speed automatic transmission, including torque converter failure. 
• 2017-2019: Also reported to have failed fuel injectors, which can impact fuel efficiency and performance. 
• 2017: Specifically, the 2017 model year had a higher frequency of fuel injector failures. 
• 2020: While 2020 was the first year of the new ZF 9-speed automatic transmission, some sources still cite concerns and note that the 2020 model year was part of a lawsuit concerning the transmission's programming, according to ClassAction.org.