When did the Honda Ridgeline switch to a 9 speed transmission?
It happened with the second-generation Ridgeline for the 2017 model year, when Honda introduced a 9-speed automatic transmission. This marked a shift from the earlier generation’s setup and reflected Honda’s push for improved efficiency and performance in the pickup.
The change signaled a key evolution in the Ridgeline’s drivetrain. The first-generation Ridgeline (2006–2014) relied on a 5-speed automatic, while the redesigned 2017 model adopted a 9-speed automatic, aligning with Honda’s broader move toward more gears to optimize power delivery and fuel economy.
Transmission history by generation
The following timeline highlights the transmission changes across the Ridgeline’s generations:
- First generation (2006–2014): 5-speed automatic transmission
- Second generation introduction (2017 model year, unveiled in 2016): 9-speed automatic transmission
The 9-speed shift with the 2017 Ridgeline represents a deliberate upgrade to gear ratios and shift logic, aimed at smoother acceleration, better highway performance, and improved efficiency for a midsize pickup.
What changed with the 9-speed switch
Adopting the 9-speed automatic allowed Honda to re-tune the drivetrain for more confident highway cruising and towing capability, without sacrificing everyday drivability. The 9-speed setup also helped the Ridgeline deliver more responsive acceleration and a more stable engine speed across a range of driving conditions.
Key benefits often associated with the 9-speed transmission include smoother shifts, more efficient highway fuel economy, and gear ratios that better suit towing and payload situations. Honda designed the 9-speed transmission to complement the Ridgeline’s performance characteristics, including its available all-wheel-drive system and V6 powertrain.
The move to a 9-speed transmission in the 2017 Ridgeline remains a defining feature of the second-generation model, setting it apart from the first-generation truck and positioning the Ridgeline as a more modern, capable pickup within Honda’s lineup.
Impact on owners and driving experience
For owners, the 9-speed setup translated to a more refined daily drive, with quieter highway operation, more efficient cruising, and improved overall responsiveness when towing or accelerating from a stop. While the core capabilities of the Ridgeline—comfort, versatility, and a car-like ride—remained central, the transmission upgrade contributed to a more contemporary driving experience.
In summary, the Honda Ridgeline transitioned to a 9-speed automatic with the arrival of the second-generation model for the 2017 model year, introduced to the market in 2016. This marked a clear inflection point in the Ridgeline’s drivetrain design and helped redefine its performance profile in the midsize pickup segment.
Summary: The Ridgeline switched to a 9-speed transmission with the 2017 model year (unveiled in 2016), moving from the first-generation 5-speed auto to a more advanced 9-speed setup that improved efficiency, acceleration, and highway performance.
What is the transmission problem on the Honda Ridgeline?
Honda Ridgeline Transmission Issues: Slow, Clunky Shifting Fixes Ridgeline often faces delayed shifting and high RPMs due to transmission fluid overfill or sensor faults. Slow, clunky shifting and high RPMs can result from overfilled transmission fluid causing hydraulic pressure issues.
What year did Ridgeline get 9-speed transmission?
In 2019, for the 2020 model year, the transmission was replaced with a ZF 9HP nine-speed automatic.
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 transmission is in a Honda Ridgeline?
All Ridgeline trims feature a 9-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
