When should the transmission fluid be changed on a 2017 Honda Ridgeline?
The transmission fluid in a 2017 Honda Ridgeline should be changed at regular intervals to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the vehicle's transmission. According to Honda's recommended maintenance schedule, the transmission fluid in a 2017 Ridgeline should be changed every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first.
Importance of Changing Transmission Fluid
The transmission fluid in a vehicle serves several critical functions, including lubricating the moving parts, reducing friction, and preventing wear and tear. Over time, the fluid can break down, become contaminated, or lose its effectiveness, which can lead to a variety of problems, such as:
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Slipping or delayed engagement of the transmission
- Increased wear on transmission components
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Eventual transmission failure
By changing the transmission fluid at the recommended intervals, you can help extend the life of your vehicle's transmission and prevent these issues from occurring.
Recommended Transmission Fluid for a 2017 Honda Ridgeline
Honda recommends using a specific type of transmission fluid for the 2017 Ridgeline, which is Genuine Honda Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). This fluid is designed to meet the specific requirements of Honda's transmissions and provides the necessary lubrication and protection.
It's important to use the recommended fluid and to have the transmission serviced by a qualified Honda technician to ensure that the job is done correctly and that the proper fluid is used.
Signs That the Transmission Fluid Needs to be Changed
In addition to following the recommended maintenance schedule, there are a few signs that may indicate the need to change the transmission fluid in a 2017 Honda Ridgeline:
- Difficulty shifting gears or delayed engagement
- Unusual noises or vibrations coming from the transmission
- Leaks or fluid discoloration
- Decreased fuel efficiency
If you notice any of these issues, it's best to have the transmission inspected and the fluid changed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
Changing the transmission fluid in a 2017 Honda Ridgeline at the recommended intervals is an important part of maintaining the vehicle's overall health and performance. By following Honda's guidelines and using the recommended fluid, you can help ensure that your Ridgeline's transmission continues to operate smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Do 2017 Honda Ridgelines have transmission problems?
There are well documented problems with the transmission in the 2017-2019 Ridgeline. Not every truck has problems, but they are frequent enough that Honda switched to an external transmission vendor starting with the 2020 model year.
How often should you change transmission fluid in a Honda Ridgeline?
The Honda Ridgeline transmission fluid change interval is typically between 50,000 and 75,000 miles, but this can vary by model year and driving conditions. Some sources suggest a more frequent interval of every 30,000 miles, especially for those who frequently tow or drive in extreme conditions, while others state a general range of 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Always check your specific owner's manual for the most accurate recommendation.
Factors that influence the interval
- Driving conditions: If you frequently tow, drive in stop-and-go traffic, or operate in extreme hot or cold climates, you should change the fluid more often, possibly as frequently as every 30,000 miles or less.
- Towing: Towing is considered severe service, which shortens the life of the transmission fluid.
- Vehicle age and mileage: Older vehicles with higher mileage may require more frequent changes or a different service method, such as a drain and fill instead of a flush.
How to check your transmission fluid
- Check the color and smell: The fluid should be clear or pink and should not resemble sludge.
- Check the fluid level: Ensure the level is correct according to your owner's manual.
Does Honda recommend transmission flushes?
No, Honda does not recommend transmission flushes; it advises against them because the pressurized method can dislodge debris and damage sensitive internal components. Instead, Honda recommends using the drain and fill method, which involves draining the old fluid and refilling with new Honda-specific fluid, often repeating the process three times to thoroughly refresh the system. The specific service interval depends on your model and driving conditions, so always check your owner's manual for exact guidelines.
Why Honda advises against flushing
- Dislodging debris: The pressure from a flush can dislodge built-up debris and varnish, which can then clog internal transmission parts like solenoids and valves.
- Damage risk: The pressurized force can damage sensitive internal components in a Honda transmission.
- Fluid incompatibility: Honda transmissions are engineered for their specific fluid. Using a non-OEM fluid during a flush can cause corrosion and other issues.
What to do instead: The recommended "3x drain and fill" method
- Step 1: Drain: Drain the old transmission fluid from the pan.
- Step 2: Refill: Refill with the correct type of genuine Honda transmission fluid.
- Step 3: Repeat: Drive the car for a short distance (10-20 miles), then repeat the drain and refill process two more times to ensure most of the old fluid is replaced with new fluid.
How often does Honda recommend changing transmission fluid?
Honda's recommendation for changing transmission fluid varies by model, but a general guideline is every 60,000 to 100,000 miles for automatic transmissions, while some sources suggest more frequent changes, like 30,000 miles for CVTs or in cases of severe driving conditions. For all models, you should also check your specific owner's manual for the most accurate service interval, as it is the definitive guide.
This video explains when to change CVT fluid on a Honda: 58sRB The MechanicYouTube · Mar 22, 2023
Factors influencing the change interval
- Transmission type: Automatic, manual, and Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) have different service requirements.
- Driving conditions: Frequent towing, hauling, or driving in harsh weather can necessitate more frequent changes than normal driving.
- Vehicle age and model: Older or higher-mileage vehicles may have different needs, and some models are designed for longer intervals.
- Fluid condition: If you notice the fluid is dark or has a burnt smell, it may need to be changed sooner than the recommended interval.
General recommendations by transmission type
- Automatic/CVT: Most modern Honda vehicles with automatic or CVT transmissions require a fluid change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions.
- Manual: Manual transmissions may need to be serviced around the 30,000-mile mark.
What to do
- Consult your owner's manual: This is the most accurate source of information for your specific vehicle model.
- Consider your driving habits: If you drive in harsh conditions, it is best to follow a more aggressive maintenance schedule, possibly closer to the 30,000-mile mark for a CVT.
- Monitor the fluid's condition: If the fluid is dark, has a burning smell, or if you experience shifting problems, have it checked by a professional. It may need to be changed sooner than the manufacturer's recommendation.
