Updated 2026-07-18
Does the Honda Ridgeline Have a Timing Belt or Chain?
Compiled & reviewed by Nikolai Tsyrenov · Updated 2026-07-18 · confidence: high
2017-2025 (3.5L V6) Honda Ridgeline — 3.5L V6 (J35); 0W-20 full synthetic; 9-speed auto; AWD; Maintenance Minder.
Answer: Timing BELT (3.5L V6) — replace ~105,000 mi with water pump (interference).
| Belt or chain | Timing belt — replace on schedule |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 (J35); 0W-20 full synthetic; 9-speed auto; AWD; Maintenance Minder |
| Interference engine? | Yes — a failure can damage the engine |
| Service milestone | ~105k TIMING BELT + water pump + plugs |
Because the Honda Ridgeline uses a belt (not a maintenance-free chain), the replacement interval is a hard deadline — and on this interference engine, skipping it risks catastrophic damage.
Honda Ridgeline note: Same J35 TIMING BELT (~105k) as the Pilot/Odyssey. As an AWD truck it also wants regular transfer-case and rear-diff fluid — don't forget those alongside the belt.
FAQ
Does the Honda Ridgeline have a timing belt or a timing chain?
Timing BELT (3.5L V6) — replace ~105,000 mi with water pump (interference).
When does the Honda Ridgeline timing belt need replacing?
Timing BELT (3.5L V6) — replace ~105,000 mi with water pump (interference).
Is the Honda Ridgeline an interference engine?
Yes — the Honda Ridgeline (3.5L V6 (J35); 0W-20 full synthetic; 9-speed auto; AWD; Maintenance Minder) is an interference design, so a failed timing component lets the valves and pistons collide and can destroy the engine. That is why the belt interval is not optional.
← Full Honda Ridgeline maintenance schedule · Timing belt intervals for all cars
General guidance — confirm against your Honda Ridgeline owner's manual.