2017 Honda Ridgeline

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 414 reports of connecting rod bearing failures in the 3.5L V6 engine used in the following vehicles: Model Years (MY) 2018-2020 Acura TLX, MY2016-2020 Acura MDX, MY2016-2020 Honda Pilot, MY2018-2020 Honda Odyssey, and MY2017-2019 Honda Ridgeline.  The subject engine failures were analyzed as part of a Recall Query (RQ24013).  It was determined that these engine failures are outside the scope of Honda Recall 23V-751. Further, evidence gathered in conjunction with RQ24013 does not suggest this failure is caused by the same crankshaft manufacturing defect that is addressed by Honda in Recall 23V-751.  Based on analysis of data from RQ24013, NHTSA has closed that investigation. The significant number of reports of engine failure in vehicles outside the scope of RQ24013 presents a potential safety risk that warrants further investigation.  ODI is opening this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) to further evaluate the scope and severity of the potential problem and to fully assess the potential safety-related issues.  To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

On November 23, 2022, American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) filed recall 22V-867 to address a loss of the Rear-View Camera (RVC) function in model year (MY) 2017-2019 Honda Ridgeline vehicles. On May 3, 2024 Honda filed another recall, 24V-321, relating to the loss of the RVC function in MY 2020-2024 Honda Ridgeline vehicles. The production parts recalled under 24V-321 and the parts used for the remedy in 22V-867 used the same supplier and materials for critical components in the RVC wire harness. As such, on June 26, 2024, ODI opened Recall Query RQ24011 to investigate the long-term suitability of the remedy in recall 22V-867. After receiving 14 total reports of RVC wire harness failures in vehicles that received the remedy for recall 22V-867, NHTSA upgraded the RQ investigation to this Engineering Analysis (EA25003) to further assess these failures. Recall 22V-867 states that the RVC wire harness was manufactured with a protective corrugated tubing that was insufficient to protect against bending wear and zip ties that were insufficiently tightened and would not keep the protective tubing in place. The consequence is that the RVC wire harness may fatigue and break after the tailgate is repeatedly opened and closed. This ultimately results in the failure of the RVC to display an image due to a lack of connectivity. Honda’s remedy, as identified in the recall filing, was a replacement harness with longer protective corrugated tubing and sufficiently tightened zip ties. This remedy part was also installed as a production part in certain MY 2019 Ridgeline vehicles. Recall 24V-321 states that the RVC wire harness was manufactured with a material which was susceptible to breakage upon repeated opening and closing of the tailgate, which ultimately leads to a complete loss of RVC function. Honda’s remedy identified in the recall filing was a replacement harness manufactured by a new supplier with improved material properties to withstand wear from bending. Since the remedy parts for recall 22V-867 and the production parts recalled under 24V-321 use the same supplier and materials for critical components in the RVC wire harness, ODI opened this investigation. To date, ODI has received 4 allegations of RVC failures.  Honda reported a total of 27 complaints of RVC failure. ODI’s analysis of these reports revealed that the majority of these reports are related to different failure modes within the RVC or harness. Thus, these reports cannot be attributed to the durability concern being assessed in this investigation. During the investigation, ODI utilized NHTSA’s Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) to analyze further the potential safety related consequence and frequency of the alleged failures. VRTC surveyed owners of the subject vehicles in Ohio to collect additional information on the presence of RVC wire harness failures in vehicles subject to recall 22V-867. VRTC also performed inspections of select vehicles identified from the survey responses. The survey responses received and results of inspections did not show any RVC failures resulting from wire harness damage. Additionally, VRTC completed durability testing on the subject wire harness in an attempt to duplicate the failure mode. The test results indicated that the subject part is not expected to fail within a reasonable vehicle life span. As a result of ODI’s analysis of the field data and available test data, this Engineering Analysis is being closed without further action. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

On November 8, 2024, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ24013 to assess the scope of Honda recall 23V-751 after receiving complaints that alleged connecting rod bearing failures in vehicles that were not within the scope of recall 23V-751. In November 2023, Honda recalled 248,999 various Model Year (MY)2016–2020 Honda and Acura vehicles equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine. Honda recalled these vehicles due to a crankshaft manufacturing defect that caused premature connecting rod bearing wear and engine seizure. While the out-of-scope failures involved in these complaints appear to have a very similar failure mechanism as the recalled engines, a thorough analysis of all available data from Honda has not indicated that the same manufacturing defect exists in the out-of-scope engines as the engines recalled by 23V-751. Based on this analysis ODI has determined that Honda has properly defined the scope of recall 23V-751. Consequently, ODI will close this RQ investigation.  NHTSA will continue to investigate these complaints of engine failure as part of a new Preliminary Evaluation Investigation (PE25008). The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by new circumstances.

On June 26, 2024, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Recall Query (RQ24011) to assess the long-term suitability of the remedy for recall 22V-867, which was filed on November 23, 2022 by American Honda Motor Co. (Honda). Recall 22V-867 addressed concerns of a loss of the Rear-View Camera (RVC) function in model year (MY) 2017-2019 Honda Ridgeline vehicles. Recall 22V-867 states that the RVC wire harness was manufactured with a protective corrugated tubing which was insufficient to protect against bending wear and zip ties which were insufficiently tightened and would not keep the protective tubing in place. The consequence is that the RVC wire harness may fatigue and break after repeated opening and closing of the tailgate. This ultimately results in the failure of the RVC image to display due to a lack of connectivity. Honda’s remedy identified in the recall filing was a replacement harness with longer protective corrugated tubing and sufficiently tightened zip ties. This remedy part was also installed as a production part in certain MY 2019 Ridgeline vehicles. On May 3, 2024, Honda submitted recall 24V-321 to ODI, addressing concerns of a loss of the RVC function in MY 2020-2024 Honda Ridgeline vehicles. Recall 24V-321 states that the RVC wire harness was manufactured with a material which was susceptible to breakage upon repeated opening and closing of the tailgate, which ultimately leads to a complete loss of RVC function. Honda’s remedy identified in the recall filing was a replacement harness manufactured by a new supplier with improved material properties to withstand wear from bending. Since the remedy parts for recall 22V-867 and the production parts recalled under 24V-321 use the same supplier and materials for critical components in the RVC wire harness, ODI opened RQ24011. To date, ODI has received 1 allegation of a 22V-867 remedy RVC wire harness failure. Honda indicated that it is aware of a total of 14 reports regarding remedy RVC wire harness failures associated with Recall 22V-867. Additional remedy parts may not have yet seen sufficient wear to induce the failure. ODI also believes further testing is necessary to assess the potential failures in these parts. RQ24011 is being upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA25003) to further assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety related consequences of the Rear View Camera harness failures in 2017-2019 Honda Ridgeline vehicles. To review the ODI report cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Component Failure & Inspection: The internal engine assembly failed completely due to a catastrophic main/connecting rod bearing seizure. The vehicle is currently located at Fowler Honda in [XXX], and the failed engine components are fully available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: A sudden and catastrophic internal engine seizure causes an immediate loss of motive power and stalling while driving, which poses a severe risk of a high-speed crash or being stranded in active traffic. Additionally, internal rod bearing failures present a known fire risk due to moving components breaking and puncturing the engine block. Dealer Confirmation & Inspection: The failure has been officially inspected and confirmed by a certified factory dealership technician at Fowler Honda ([XXX]). They provided an official repair estimate of $9,278.47. Crucially, this exorbitant quote was specified for a salvaged/used engine with 107,000 miles on it rather than a new factory replacement, forcing me to bear an extreme financial burden for a high-mileage replacement component due to a manufacturing defect. Warning Signs & Symptoms: The engine developed a loud internal mechanical knock/noise shortly before locking up completely. Summary of Issue: This vehicle exhibits the exact mechanical manufacturing defect outlined in Honda's Recall 23V751000 for the 3.5L V6 engine family. However, American Honda is currently refusing to offer Goodwill Assistance or cover the repair costs under Case Number XXX because my specific VIN is excluded from the initial recall database. I am filing this complaint to urge federal investigators to force an expansion of the recall boundaries to cover all omitted 2017 vehicles experiencing this identical structural defect, ensuring out-of-pocket owners receive full restitution. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11776218

Incident

Nov 2, 2026

ENGINE DIED WHILE DRIVING AND IT WONT START

NHTSA ID

11775918

Incident

Oct 22, 2026

I own a 2017 Honda Ridgeline with the 3.5L V6. The vehicle developed a noticeable engine knocking noise along with a check-engine light. I took it to a Honda dealership for diagnosis. The dealer confirmed abnormally low oil pressure, reporting approximately 6–7 PSI at idle on Bank 2, and recommended complete engine replacement at an estimated cost of approximately $9,000. To my knowledge, the dealer has not identified the exact internal component causing the knocking noise or low oil pressure. The vehicle and engine are available for inspection. This vehicle has a significant prior engine-failure history. At approximately 102,851 miles, the previous engine suffered a spun No. 2 connecting-rod bearing, crankshaft/connecting-rod damage, and metal contamination in the oil system. That engine was replaced with a used engine, which is the engine currently installed. Before the current diagnosis, diagnostic code P2651 was present. The related oil-pressure switch and rocker-arm oil-control solenoid were replaced and the codes cleared, but the abnormal engine knocking remained. I am concerned this condition could result in engine seizure, stalling, or sudden loss of power while driving. Because of the knocking noise and confirmed low oil pressure, I do not consider the vehicle safe to drive. I am aware NHTSA is investigating connecting-rod-bearing failures involving 2017–2019 Honda Ridgelines and other Honda/Acura vehicles. Given this vehicle's prior documented connecting-rod-bearing failure and its current knocking/low-oil-pressure condition, I am submitting this complaint so NHTSA can determine whether it may be related to the broader issue under investigation. The vehicle has been inspected by a Honda dealership, and I have contacted American Honda for assistance.

NHTSA ID

11773670

Incident

Aug 28, 2026

Since XXX I have been experiencing an issue with my 2017 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E where it intermittently jogs,steers or veers to the left for a few feet before re-correcting itself right sometimes over correcting to the right. I have to grab the wheel to stop this from happening. Sometimes it's really pronounced and sometimes it's barely noticeable. I am very sensitive to it and know what it feels like and I know how bad it gets where it actually has changed lanes into the left lane and re-corrected back to the right lane. Normally it shifts a foot or two and corrects back to the right. It is most noticeable when I am in cruise control and accelerate or decelerate with a few clicks but it does it when you add or remove torque to the engine as well. I've been trying to work with the Serra Honda dealership in [XXX], American Honda Corporate and my extended warranty. Corporate and the warranty company are are both willing to pay for repairs if the dealership can replicate it to give them a diagnosis. Since last year, all routine maintenance has been done including the timing belt, struts, and all fluids. Since I have owned the truck there have been recall repairs done for the fuel injection, torque converter, and rear subframe. In addition, the transmission failed and was recently replaced under warranty. After every repair the dealership has required that we replicate the issue but has proven difficult to replicate on short test drives since it is intermittent and seems to come and go in varies in severity. Honda corporate has suggested I trade in or sell it on my own and not spend the money on trying to diagnose it. I do not want to sell a problematic truck to anyone and run the risk of them getting in an accident especially in ice and snow. It is a safety concern. I would like Honda to either fix it or but it at a reasonable price. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11773200

Incident

Feb 1, 2026

Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am writing to formally report a serious safety concern involving my vehicle, which experienced a sudden engine shutdown while I was driving on the busy [XXX] toward the [XXX]. The engine unexpectedly stopped operating due to oil-related and engine issues, creating an extremely dangerous situation for me and potentially for other motorists traveling on the roadway. Having a vehicle suddenly lose engine power while traveling at highway speeds presents a significant safety hazard. The unexpected loss of power can leave a driver with limited ability to maneuver safely, increase the risk of a collision, and expose the driver and passengers to danger from surrounding traffic. In my situation, the engine failure occurred without warning while I was on a busy highway, placing my safety and the safety of others at risk. I am concerned that the circumstances surrounding this failure may indicate a potential safety-related defect involving the vehicle's engine or oil system. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this incident and determine whether similar complaints have been reported involving this vehicle, its engine, or related oil-system components. If a broader pattern of failures exists, I ask that the agency consider whether further investigation or appropriate corrective action is warranted. I would appreciate guidance regarding the proper process for submitting supporting documentation, including repair records, diagnostic reports, photographs, maintenance history, and any other information that may assist your investigation. I believe that sudden engine failure under these circumstances deserves serious attention because of the potential consequences for public safety. My intention in submitting this complaint is to ensure that this incident is documented and evaluated, and to help determine whether other vehicle owners may be facing a similar risk. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11772562

Incident

Sep 18, 2026

My 2017 Honda Ridgeline RTL-T is having an issue where the right fog lamp acts as if its the left turn signal when activated. Example: I activate the turn signal to perform a left turn. The turn signal does not hyperflash as if it needs a new bulb. The rear left turn signal performs as expected, however the front left turn signal does not activate. The right front fog lamp flashes as if its a turn signal. This presents a risk in traffic as oncoming could assume that I'm turning right as I make a left hand turn.

NHTSA ID

11770876

Incident

Oct 1, 2026

Engine started running extremely rough, and multiple warning lights came on. Had to have it towed to a mechanic. This rod bearings failed, this is a Honda recall, but they refuse to honor it.

NHTSA ID

11768110

Incident

Sep 19, 2026

I own a 2017 Honda Ridgeline with approximately 128,000 miles. In late August 2026, I noticed a deep knocking noise coming from the engine shortly after an oil change. The knocking increased with engine RPM and continued even after the engine warmed up. The oil level appeared full, and there was no oil-pressure warning light. I brought the vehicle to Liberty Honda in Connecticut for diagnosis. Their technician investigated the noise, identified it as internal connecting-rod knock, and determined that the engine requires complete replacement. The dealership quoted approximately $19,210 plus tax for the repair. I have driven approximately 40,000 miles since purchasing this vehicle and have consistently maintained it. Oil changes were performed at Valvoline approximately every 3,000–5,000 miles using their premium oil service. Routine maintenance was performed by an independent mechanic, while major repairs were handled by Honda dealerships. The timing belt was serviced at approximately 84,000 miles. I am concerned because Honda previously recalled certain 2017 Ridgelines for connecting-rod-bearing defects, and NHTSA has separately investigated similar failures in 2017–2019 Ridgelines outside the original recall population. My vehicle has experienced the same type of failure being investigated This condition presents a serious safety concern because connecting-rod-bearing failure can cause sudden engine failure and loss of power while driving. I have avoided further driving because of this risk. American Honda denied my request for goodwill assistance toward engine replacement. I am reporting this failure so NHTSA can evaluate it alongside similar complaints.

NHTSA ID

11766841

Incident

Aug 31, 2026

Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2017-2019 Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the rearview camera inoperable. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.

Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2017-2019 Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the rearview camera inoperable. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.

Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2017-2019 Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the rearview camera inoperable. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.

Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2017-2019 Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the rearview camera inoperable. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.

Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2017-2019 Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the rearview camera inoperable. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.

Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2017-2019 Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the rearview camera inoperable. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.