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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 chainTiming belt — replace on schedule
Engine3.5L 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.

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