What kind of transmission is in the Honda Ridgeline?
The Ridgeline uses a nine-speed automatic transmission. It’s paired with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and offered with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) depending on the trim. This setup marks a shift from the older, lower-numbered automatics used in the first-generation Ridgeline.
In more detail, the current Ridgeline (the second generation, introduced for 2017 and continued through today) employs a nine-speed automatic with a conventional torque converter. It works with Honda’s Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System on all-wheel-drive models, delivering power to the appropriate wheels as conditions demand. The transmission is designed to balance everyday on-road comfort with sufficient low-end torque and towing capability for light workloads.
Key transmission details for the current Ridgeline
Before listing the core specifications, it helps to understand the main attributes of the transmission setup in the Ridgeline. The following points capture the essential characteristics that affect driving feel, efficiency, and utility.
- Transmission type: 9-speed automatic with a torque converter
- Drivetrain options: Front-wheel drive (FWD) or Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System
- Towing capability: Up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped
These elements combine to give the Ridgeline a smooth, capable ride for daily driving, commuting, and light-to-moderate towing tasks, while maintaining the ride comfort and unibody construction that set the model apart from traditional body-on-frame pickups.
Why the transmission choice matters for buyers
For most buyers, the nine-speed automatic delivers immediate responsiveness for everyday driving and adequate gearing for highway cruising and overtaking. The availability of Real-Time AWD helps when weather conditions or light off-road use demand extra traction, making the transmission pairing a practical choice for a mid-size pickup intended as a versatile daily driver with pickup capability.
Summary
The Honda Ridgeline uses a nine-speed automatic transmission (not a manual or CVT) paired with a 3.5-liter V6, available in FWD or Real-Time AWD. Introduced with the second-generation Ridgeline in 2017, this setup emphasizes smooth daily driving, reliable performance, and competent towing for a unibody pickup.
What year did the Honda Ridgeline have transmission problems?
The 55-page complaint says that the apparent defect plaguing the ZF 9HP transmission in 2016-2022 Honda Pilot, 2018-2019 Honda Odyssey, 2019-present Honda Passport and 2020-present Honda Ridgeline vehicles can produce rough and delayed shifting; loud noises during shifting; sudden, harsh accelerations and decelerations ...
Does the Honda Ridgeline have a CVT transmission?
No, the Honda Ridgeline does not have a CVT transmission; it is equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission across all trims. This automatic transmission provides a more refined driving experience with smooth acceleration and is a departure from the CVTs used in other Honda models like the Civic and Accord.
- Transmission type: All Honda Ridgeline models use a 9-speed automatic transmission.
- Engine: This transmission is paired with a 280-horsepower V6 engine.
- Paddle shifters: The 9-speed automatic also includes paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience, allowing for manual control.
Are Honda Ridgeline transmissions reliable?
While the Ridgeline is praised for its reliability by consumers, these transmission challenges can arise and may lead to significant complications if not addressed. Some drivers have even experienced total transmission failure due to these problems.
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.
