Honda Ridgeline 6 speed transmission issues?

[HawkeyeScott]

Thinking about pulling the trigger one of these days on a Ridgeline. Studied them the last few months and they check a lot of boxes for me. Seeing a lot of 2017s in the local market for decent prices with decent mileages.

I’ve heard about the fact that people don’t love the 6 speed transmissions in these. Specifics on why, though, are hard to come by. That’s what I’m hoping to learn more about here.

Why are these considered subpar compared to the 9 speeds that are in the last few years’ models? Do they fail? Shift poorly? Is there anything that can be done to improve them? Should I steer clear?

Curious because for the money saved on not buying a newer one, I could potentially do a rebuild, replacement, etc and stil be ahead.

Thanks for the education.

 

[The Critic]

Torque converter issues on the 6AT's, but it can be manageable on some model years with very frequent fluid changes and software updates.

But some years are simply bad news and Honda has extended the warranty on them.

 

[Gladtojoin88]

Torque converter issues. I believe they have extended coverage though and if so I wouldn't lose sleep over this

 

[Marcozi]

To add what has been posted, I'd run the VIN of any Ridgeline to see if the AT has an extended warranty.

 

[Aichiguy]

The very reason I stayed with a first gen. I think they're great vehicles save for the fuel economy.

 

[Gyro Gearloose]

My 2017 Ridgeline came with the 6 speed. They DEMAND on schedule fluid changes or you can start to get surging at moderate speeds and light loads on the highway. Fluid change fixed it.

During very light load neighborhood driving you can sometimes hear a clack as it shifts from 3-4? That is odd because the 9 speed is supposed to be the one with dog clutches, not the 6 speed. Cant find any explanation of what might be happening.

Mine is used as mostly as an interstate cruiser so it has the easiest of lives but it's gone 70k with no service beyond fluid/filter changes.

 

[HawkeyeScott]

If frequent fluid changes keep the issues at bay, that seems like a super easy step to take. An annual DIY change would only be like $40, correct?

 

[benjamming]

Will you be doing the drain & fill? If so, then I would consider doing it every oil change or two.