How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on a Honda Ridgeline?
The typical all-in price for replacing a timing belt on a Honda Ridgeline is about $700 to $1,200 in the United States, including parts and labor when the water pump is replaced as part of the kit. In higher-cost regions or if additional work is required, the total can rise toward $1,500.
The Ridgeline’s 3.5-liter V6 engine usually uses a timing belt with accompanying components, and the service involves more than just swapping the belt. Maintenance intervals generally target about 105,000 miles or roughly seven years, and the job requires front-cover access, part replacements, and coolant service. Labor times typically run three to five hours, depending on the model year and shop workflow.
What goes into the cost
The following items largely determine the final bill: parts included in the belt kit, ancillary components, and the labor rate charged by the shop. Below is a breakdown of common drivers of price.
- Timing belt kit (belt, tensioners, and idlers)
- Water pump replacement (often done at the same time)
- Gaskets, seals, and coolant
- Labor charges based on hours and regional rates
- Taxes, shop fees, and any miscellaneous fluids or tools required
When you replace the belt with the kit and water pump, you’re typically addressing the parts most likely to wear simultaneously, reducing the need for repeat labor later. Some shops quote the belt kit separately from labor, while others bundle the package as a single service.
Key price drivers
Several factors push the price up or down, including the local cost of labor, whether a dealership or independent shop is used, and the exact components chosen for replacement. Engine accessibility and the model year can also affect how long the job takes and which parts are needed.
Typical price ranges by shop type
Prices vary by where you go for service. The ranges below reflect common market differences and what’s usually included when the belt kit and water pump are replaced together.
- Independent repair shop: typically $700–$1,100
- Specialty or quick-lube shop: typically $800–$1,200
- Dealership: typically $900–$1,500
In higher-cost metro areas or with OEM parts and additional work (such as replacing cam seals or timing cover gaskets), the total can reach $1,400–$1,800 or more. The exact figure depends on the vehicle year, the parts selected, and regional labor rates.
Getting an accurate quote
To ensure you’re paying a fair price and not missing necessary work, prepare ahead of requesting bids. Gather details about your Ridgeline (model year, mileage), confirm that the quote includes a timing belt kit with water pump, and ask whether coolant, seals, and any required gaskets are included. It’s also wise to request a written estimate that lists parts and labor separately and to compare at least three quotes from different shops.
Steps to maximize value:
- Check whether the shop uses OEM or aftermarket parts and what warranty applies.
- Ask about labor hours and whether the estimate accounts for front-end access work.
- Confirm the coolant flush and any related service are included.
Summary
For most Honda Ridgeline owners, planning for a timing belt replacement at around 105,000 miles with a water pump change yields a typical bill in the $700–$1,200 range, depending on location and parts choice. Dealerships and high-cost markets trend higher, while independent shops in other regions can come in at the lower end. Always replace the belt kit and water pump together, request a detailed written estimate, and compare multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting value and solid parts coverage.
