What is the mileage on a 2009 Ridgeline?

In the 2009 Honda Ridgeline, mileage (fuel economy) typically lands in the mid-to-high teens in combined driving, with slight variation based on drivetrain and conditions. The two-wheel-drive (2WD) version tends to be a touch more efficient than the four-wheel-drive (4WD) variant.

Fuel economy depends on many factors, including drivetrain, payload, towing, terrain, and driving style. Below is a breakdown of the official estimates and what drivers generally observe in everyday use.

EPA fuel economy estimates

The Honda Ridgeline from 2009 used a 3.5-liter V6 paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Two main configurations affected its official mileage: 2WD and 4WD. Here are the EPA estimates commonly cited for these setups:

• 2WD: 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway; 18 mpg combined.


• 4WD: 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway; 17 mpg combined.

Actual mileage can vary based on driving style, trim, and cargo. The numbers above reflect EPA estimates for the 2009 model year with an automatic transmission.

Real-world mileage and factors

In everyday use, many Ridgeline owners report slightly lower numbers than EPA ratings, especially when the truck is loaded for work or used for towing. On long highway trips with light payload, drivers often see combined mileage approach or surpass the 17–18 mpg mark on 2WD models, while 4WD versions may fall toward the lower end of that range.

Several variables influence real-world fuel economy, including payload weight, towing activity, driving habits (acceleration and speed), tire type and pressure, and the use of air conditioning. Weather and terrain also play a role.

Typical real-world ranges observed

Across common driving scenarios, a practical expectation for the 2009 Ridgeline is roughly:

• 2WD: around 17–20 mpg combined, with highway trips toward the higher end.


• 4WD: around 16–18 mpg combined, with highway trips toward the lower end.

These ranges provide a realistic sense of what owners experience, beyond the official EPA numbers.

Tips to maximize mpg

Before listing practical steps, note that small changes in driving behavior and maintenance can yield noticeable improvements in fuel economy.

• Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure; check regularly and adjust for load.


• Reduce unnecessary weight in the bed and cabin; remove roof racks when not in use.


• Plan routes to minimize idling and optimize highway cruising; use cruise control where appropriate.


• Drive smoothly: gradual starts, steady speeds, and less frequent hard braking boost efficiency.


• Perform regular maintenance: timely oil changes, air filter replacement, spark plugs, and a properly functioning oxygen sensor influence mpg.


• Use the correct fuel grade and ensure the engine is not running with fuel-system faults.

Following these practices can help both 2WD and 4WD Ridgelines approach or modestly exceed the typical ranges discussed above, although payload, towing, and terrain will always have a meaningful impact.

Summary

The 2009 Honda Ridgeline’s mileage varies by drivetrain and usage. EPA estimates show about 18 mpg combined for 2WD and 17 mpg combined for 4WD, with real-world results commonly falling within the mid-to-high teens depending on load and driving conditions. For accurate planning, consider your typical use—highway cruising tends to yield better numbers, while towing or heavy payloads reduce mileage—and maintain the vehicle properly to maximize efficiency.

What is considered high mileage for a Honda Ridgeline?

200,000
What Is a Good Mileage for a Honda Ridgeline? High mileage for the Honda Ridgeline is around the 200,000 mark. Thus, good mileage for the vehicle is once you get to 180,000 miles or more.

How many miles can you get out of a 2009 Honda Ridgeline?

A 2009 Honda Ridgeline can last for 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more, with many owners reporting well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Key factors for longevity include regular oil changes, timely transmission fluid service, and other scheduled maintenance like timing belt replacement. While the engine is generally reliable, some owners have reported issues like spark plugs blowing out.
 
Factors that influence lifespan

• Maintenance is crucial: Sticking to the recommended maintenance schedule is the most important factor for achieving high mileage.
  • Transmission fluid: Regularly changing the transmission fluid is critical for longevity. 
  • Oil changes: Keeping up with engine oil changes is essential. Some owners suggest following the oil life monitor. 
  • Timing belt: Since the engine uses a timing belt, replacing it on schedule is vital to prevent catastrophic engine failure. 
• Potential issues: Some owners have experienced issues, and it is important to be aware of them:
  • Spark plugs: Some 2009 models have had problems with spark plugs blowing out, which can damage the engine. 
  • Differential issues: Noise and judder on turns can be a sign of differential fluid breakdown. 
• Vehicle condition: The overall condition of the truck, including its history of rust and wear and tear from off-roading, can affect its future life expectancy. 

Examples of high-mileage Ridgelines

• Many owners report their Ridgelines have surpassed 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. 
• Some owners have reported Ridgelines reaching over 300,000 and even 400,000 miles. 
• While individual results vary, there are many examples of 2009 and similar model year Ridgelines that continue to run well after hundreds of thousands of miles. 

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. 

What are the common problems with the 2009 Ridgeline?

2009 Honda Ridgeline Problems

• Software Update Will Fix Problem When Shifting into Fourth Gear.
• Tailgate Will Not Open Because Sensor Rod is Too Long.
• Noise and Judder on Turns Due to Differential Fluid Breakdown.
• Poor Connection in Antenna Harness May Cause Static When Going Over Bumps.
• Check Engine and D4 Lights Flashing.