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What is the engine code for the 2024 Honda Ridgeline?

The engine code for the 2024 Honda Ridgeline is J35Y.


In the Ridgeline lineup, Honda relies on its 3.5-liter V6 engine, commonly listed by the manufacturer as J35Y, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. The engine delivers about 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, and is shared with other Honda SUVs and crossovers in the J-series lineup.


Engine code and family


Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 engines belong to the J-series family. The Ridgeline uses a specific variant within this family, designated by the internal code J35Y. This code appears in official specifications, service manuals, and vehicle labeling to identify the exact engine variant installed in the truck.


What the J35Y designation means


The J-series naming convention encodes displacement and configuration; the additional letters differentiate variants with features such as direct injection and variable valve timing. J35Y identifies the current generation of Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 used in the Ridgeline and other models from the same era.


Performance and drivetrain


Here are the core specifications associated with the Ridgeline’s 3.5L V6 engine for 2024:



  • Engine code: J35Y

  • Displacement: 3.5 liters

  • Configuration: V6, DOHC, i-VTEC

  • Power: 280 horsepower

  • Torque: 262 lb-ft

  • Fuel system: Direct injection (DI)

  • Transmission: 9-speed automatic

  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (standard) or all-wheel drive (optional)


These specifications summarize the engine’s core characteristics and how it powers the 2024 Ridgeline in typical driving scenarios.


Summary


For the 2024 Honda Ridgeline, the engine code is J35Y, representing Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 in this model. It delivers about 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, uses i-VTEC with direct injection, and is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, with AWD available. This engine code and configuration align with Honda’s broader J-series family used across multiple models.

What is the engine code for the Honda Ridgeline?


The engine code for most recent Honda Ridgeline models (2017-present) is J35Y6. For older models, the engine codes vary, such as J35Z5 for a 2013 model or J35A9 for a 2006 model. The most accurate way to find your specific engine code is to check the engine block, often located on the front or side of the engine.
 
You can watch this video to see how to locate the engine code on a Honda Ridgeline: 59sAuto ResourceYouTube · Jan 5, 2016
How to find your engine code

  • For recent models (2017-present): The engine code is J35Y6. 
  • For older models: The code will be different. For example:
    • 2013: J35Z5 
    • 2006: J35A9 
  • Check the engine block: The most definitive way is to look for the engine code stamped directly onto the engine block itself. 
  • Check the hood: Some manufacturers place a sticker with engine information under the hood. 
  • Consult your owner's manual or VIN: Your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can also be used to determine the specific engine specifications. 



What Hondas have the J35 engine?


J35Y

  • Honda Accord (2013-2017)
  • Acura RLX (2014-2020)
  • Honda Legend (2014-2020)
  • Acura MDX (2014-2020)
  • Acura TLX (2015-2020)
  • Honda Pilot (2016-Present)
  • Honda Ridgeline (2017-Present.
  • Honda Oddessey (2018-Present)



What engine is in the 2024 Honda Ridgeline?


Ridgeline is powered by a direct-injection V-6—a 3.5-liter, aluminum-alloy, single-overhead camshaft, 24-valve i-VTEC engine featuring Honda's advanced Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) system. Horsepower is rated at 280 @ 6000 rpm (SAE net), and torque is an impressive 262 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm (SAE net).



Why are Ridgelines not selling?


Honda Ridgelines are not selling well due to a combination of factors, including a high price for its capability, a lack of off-road and towing prowess compared to competitors, and a perceived lack of innovation in its design and technology. The vehicle's unibody construction, while providing a comfortable ride, limits its towing capacity to 5,000 lbs and does not appeal to traditional truck buyers who prioritize body-on-frame capability. Additionally, its price point puts it in a difficult position between less-expensive, more capable rivals and more capable full-size trucks, making its value proposition unclear for many buyers.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the reasons why Honda Ridgeline is not selling well: 54sNextRideHQYouTube · Oct 25, 2025
Key reasons for low sales

  • Limited capability for the price: The Ridgeline's 5,000-lb towing capacity is lower than many competitors, and its unibody design limits its appeal to those who need more rugged capability. This is a major drawback for a truck, and when combined with its price, it leaves it stuck in a market segment where buyers expect more capability for their money. 
  • High price and poor value proposition: The vehicle is perceived as expensive, especially when factoring in the cost of higher trims and packages. Buyers are forced to pay for features they may not want, which can drive up the price to the point where it competes with more capable full-size trucks. 
  • Stagnant design and technology: While competitors have been updating their designs with more aggressive looks and advanced technology, the Ridgeline has remained relatively stagnant. Its interior and tech features, such as its infotainment system, backup camera, and adaptive cruise control, are considered outdated or poor-performing by some reviewers compared to competitors. 
  • Market perception: The Ridgeline's unibody design makes it more of a utility vehicle with SUV-like characteristics, which does not align with the expectations of many traditional truck buyers who prefer the ruggedness of body-on-frame construction. 
  • Potential production issues and availability: Some dealerships have reported low inventory and a lack of available models to test drive, which can make it difficult for customers to purchase the vehicle even if they are interested. 

This video explains how the design of Honda Ridgeline affects its sales: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Jul 20, 2024


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.