The transmission delivers power from the engine to the wheels. It is responsible for converting the right amount of power into the right amount of speed. Transmission problems will lead to decreased fuel economy decrease and many other problems.
Transmission problems could include gear shift delays, grinding or jumping during acceleration, car shaking, whistling noises, burning smells, etc.
Please keep reading to learn how to troubleshoot your transmission to pinpoint the specific problem and how to fix it.
What are the most common Honda Ridgeline transmission problems?
Here is a list of the most common type of transmission problems.
Low Fluid Levels or Leaks
Low levels of transmission fluid or transmission fluid leaks are the most common transmission problem. Leaks in the transmission system itself usually cause low levels of transmission fluid. The seals in the transmission or driveshaft may become faulty and leak fluid.
Occasionally, transmission gasket seals may need to be replaced to seal the leaks in the transmission. In addition, on some occasions, transmission fluid may be contaminated by the coolant in the radiator. This is called cross-contamination and does occur on occasion.
Generally speaking, symptoms of low fluid levels or fluid leaks will include gear slippage or slow shifting. However, if the fluid is very old or contaminated, the fluid will need to be changed, or the transmission will be completely flushed and refilled.
Torque Converter Problems
Torque converters and transmission can be the source of several problems resulting in transmission damage or failure. One of the most common problems associated with the torque converter is worn or damaged needle bearings.
If the needle bearings become warm, you will generally hear strange noises coming from the transmission while in driving gears. When the vehicle is neutral, the transmission will probably not make any strange sounds, but when in a driving gear will make grinding or brushing sounds.
Solenoid Problems
The solenoid controls the flow of fluid throughout the transmission. The solenoid can often become damaged because of insufficient fluid levels or other electronic problems with the solenoid.
Problems with the solenoid are usually similar to those of inadequate fluid levels or fluid leaks. So if your 2011 Honda Ridgeline’s transmission is slipping and there are no leaks, the solenoid is the next item you should check.
Clutch Problems
The clutch is located within the torque converter and can occasionally become jammed. When the clutch jams, the solenoid may become locked, and the amount of transmission fluid in the torque converter may not be correctly calculated.
These types of clutch problems in the torque converter also appear very similar to low fluid levels. Clutch problems will also normally cause violent shaking underneath the vehicle and may produce very high heat levels in the transmission. You will normally also notice a very sharp drop in the power output of your engine.
How much does it cost to fix common Honda Ridgeline problems?
Below are the estimated costs to maintain and repair a Honda Ridgeline;
| Honda Ridgeline Problems | Cost |
| Alternator replacement | 600– 900 |
| Oil change | 120 – 135 |
| Wiper blade replacement | 75 |
| Air filter replacement | 65 |
| Battery replacement | 220 |
| New brakes | 245 – 270 |
| Coolant Change | 80 |
| New tires (set of 4) | 575 |
| New tire (one only) | 145 |
| New spark plugs | 155– 350 |
| Tire & wheel assembly rotate & balance | 80 – 100 |
| New transmission | 3000 – 4000 |
| Tune-up | 365 – 550 |
| Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor (MAP Sensor) Replacement | 285 |
| Headlight Bulb – Driver Side Low Beam Replacement | 125 |
| Car Battery Replacement | 450 |
| Differential / Gear Oil – Front Replacement | 175 |
| Ball Joint Front – Lower Left Replacement | 385 |
| Window Motor / Regulator Assembly – Passenger Side Rear Replacement | 400 |
| Headlight Bulb – Driver Side Low Beam Replacement | 135 |
| Brake Caliper – Driver Side Front Replacement | 475 |
Top Honda Ridgeline model years to avoid if you don’t want transmission problems
Below are the Ridgeline models that have the most problems;
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2017
- 2019
How to protect your Honda Ridgeline transmission from premature failure
Below are some tips to help you prolong the life of your transmission and to prevent ultimate failure;
Check Transmission Fluid Often
You should check your vehicle’s fluid at least once a month to spot low fluid levels or worn-out dirty/burnt fluid issues. This will allow you to fix these early warning signs before they cause serious transmission problems that can damage or destroy your transmission.
In addition to checking the level and quality of fluid using the dipstick, look under your car occasionally for stains on the driveway or transmission pan to ensure that your fluid isn’t leaking.
Change the Fluid on Schedule
Your vehicle’s transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. You can change it yourself or have a transmission shop flush it from your vehicle.
If you drive in a hot climate, with a lot of stop-and-go traffic or haul heavy loads, the fluid should be changed more often than the suggested range – every 15,000 to 20,000 miles, for example. That way, your transmission is always running on fresh, effective fluid to keep it cool.
Add an External Cooling System
Your vehicle’s radiator is responsible for cooling down the fluid, so change the coolant inside it every two years.
If you haul heavy tow loads, the radiator alone may not be enough to keep it cool, and you should consider installing an external transmission cooler. A stacked plate cooler, for example, is easy to install and attaches to the front of the radiator.
Add a Deep Pan
If your transmission has overheated, it is worth considering adding a deep pan. A deep pan allows you to add more fluid to your vehicle, which helps spread out the heat and remove it from the transmission faster. In addition, aluminum pans dissipate heat better than those made of steel.
Always properly switch gears
Changing gears is essential to keep your transmission running and functioning as it should. However, your transmission is a delicate mechanism, and shifting between gears improperly can lead to serious damage. This is usually unintentional, like if you accidentally hit the gear shifter into reverse when you’re driving or skip 2nd and go straight to 3rd. However, it’s also very common for drivers to shift into the park while their vehicle is still in motion.
Regardless of which gear is changed, you must do so at the appropriate time. Avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your transmission. Try being more conscious when changing gears.
Use your parking brake
Another way to prevent wear and tear on your transmission is always to engage your parking brake when putting your vehicle in park, especially when on an incline. Although most vehicles have a pawl or pin that prevents rolling and keeps the vehicle stationary when in the park, you shouldn’t rely solely on this mechanism to keep your vehicle in place.
The pawl is easily worn out and is prone to failure when not used in conjunction with the parking brake. The parking brake ensures that the vehicle will remain stationary and gives your transmission the brake it needs to function properly.
Avoid overheating your transmission
Heat is a transmission’s greatest weakness and is one of the leading causes of failure. Excessive heat in or near the transmission can lead to overheating, resulting in ruptured seals, cracked or damaged gears, slipping bands, inoperable solenoids, and bearings that fail.
These concerns can lead to transmission failure and possibly additional mechanical problems. To make sure that your transmission doesn’t overheat, it’s important to periodically check for leaks and top your fluid levels off at regular intervals as specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
Don’t overload your vehicle
Overloading your vehicle by towing beyond your vehicle’s capacity can unnecessarily strain the powertrain transmission, which often causes it to overheat. As stated above, you must do everything possible to prevent this from happening.
One way to do that is to avoid putting excess weight in or on your vehicle. In addition, you’ll avoid failure or a mechanical malfunction by simply following the towing capacity set by your manufacturer.
Let your vehicle warm-up
You’ve probably heard that you should let your vehicle warm up in the morning on days where temperatures are quite low, but do you know why? Warming up your vehicle for 30-60 seconds will help the transmission fluid and oil flow through all gears to prepare them for driving.
It’s key to allow your transmission to get all of its fluids moving before taking off so that all of the moving pieces are properly lubricated and don’t grind together. So, warm up your vehicle on those chilly mornings to prevent issues.
Have annual powertrain transmission check-ups
The transmission fluid is drained and replaced using new fluids during a transmission service. This helps remove dirt and contaminants such as metal shavings within the transmission.
If the transmission fluid is full of contaminants, the parts inside the transmission will stop functioning properly, leading to even bigger problems later on. Therefore, it’s important to have your transmission regularly serviced to avoid a powertrain repair cost.
Never ignore signs of failure
It’s not common for your transmission to fail without first showing signs of a problem on the rise. Typically, signs first occur with minor issues that eventually turn into larger issues. So it’s important to notice when your vehicle is trying to tell you that something is wrong.
Many of the clues your vehicle will give you can be easily detected using your senses, including smell and hearing. Commonly, when there is an existing transmission concern, you’ll hear screeching, grinding, or rattling noises, see transmission fluid leaking from your vehicle, or smell something burning.
How much does it cost to repair or replace your Honda Ridgeline transmission?
The cost of a new Honda Ridgeline transmission could be over $3,500, depending on the vehicle. However, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are considerably less expensive, costing less than $150.
How often should you service your Honda Ridgeline transmission?
The overall lifespan of a Honda Ridgeline transmission largely depends on how well it was maintained. But, of course, factory design flaws also factor into this equation and how/how hard you drive.
On average, Honda Ridgeline transmissions last for between 130,000-and 180,000 miles. However, a high-quality replacement transmission can last considerably longer if all factory design flaws have been addressed and the vehicle has been maintained.
What are the DTC codes related to Honda Ridgeline transmission problems?
- P0766 – Failed Shift Solenoid D – This DTC can be stored when a problem arises with a shift solenoid or the valve body.
- P2703 – Failed Friction Element D – A failed friction element can trigger this trouble code like a clutch disc.
- P0720 – Failed Input Speed Sensor or Output Speed Sensor – This trouble code is caused by a bad speed sensor on the transmission.
- P0730 – Incorrect Gear Ratio – This issue could be caused by several problems, including a fault in the transmission control module, dirty transmission fluid, or a bad transmission solenoid.
- P0657 – Voltage Problem in the ‘A’ Circuit – A short or bad ground often causes this transmission problem on the PCM or PCM wiring harness.
- P0700 – Malfunction in the transmission control system – This DTC is often triggered when a problem is with the TCM, a wiring harness, a solenoid, or the valve body.
- P0715 – Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Malfunction – This code typically gets stored when the input sensor cannot read the engine RPM, preventing the transmission from appropriately shifting gears.
- P0717 – Input/Turbine Speed Sensor No Signal – This trouble code is generated when the PCM does not get a signal from the input speed sensor, which will prevent the computer from being able to determine when the transmission needs to shift.
- P0791 – Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor’ A’ Circuit – This error can occur when there is a problem with the intermediate shaft speed sensor, most likely due to a bad sensor, wiring problem, or a failed shift solenoid.
- P0793 – Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal – The computer will generate this DTC when it cannot communicate with the intermediate shaft speed sensor.
Signs that your Honda Ridgeline transmission is faulty or failing
if you see htese signs in your car, your transmission is failing;
Transmission Fluid Leaks transmission service
Leaking transmission fluid is one of the easiest ways to determine that you have a transmission problem. This is because transmission fluid does not burn up during use like motor oil. So if you check your transmission fluid and it’s low, then chances are you leak.
Worn gaskets, a loose transmission pan, or an out-of-balance driveshaft are common causes of transmission fluid leaks. Checking your transmission fluid is a good way to stay on top of this.
Burning Odor
If you start to notice a slight, burning odor, it could be your transmission fluid. Transmission fluid is vital to keeping the transmission lubricated. Burnt fluid may cause the transmission itself to start burning up.
This problem can escalate quickly, so you must get your vehicle inspected if you notice this smell.
Delayed Movement
Transmissions are designed to go into the right gear every time. If you feel any hesitation or your car isn’t moving as fast as the engine revs up, it could be a sign of a bad transmission. This is not just a vehicle concern but also a safety concern.
Odd Sounds Transmission service
Noises your car can emit may differ between manual and automatic transmissions. For example, a manual transmission will make very abrupt grinding noises when you change gears if it’s faulty.
On the other hand, an automatic transmission will make a whining, humming, or buzzing sound. If you hear any of these noises, it is best to have your vehicle’s transmission inspected as soon as possible.
Warning Lights
Most modern vehicles are equipped with sensors to detect problems long before you see or hear warning signs. These sensors will pick up vibrations and other irregularities, triggering one of your dashboard lights.
The check engine and transmission temperature lights are the most common indicators of transmission trouble.
Unpredictable Shifting
Since the TCM sends the shifting signals, a bad module can cause incorrect or unintended shifting. For example, your Honda may shift to neutral or another gear that it wouldn’t normally shift into without warning.
At best, it’s a bit of a nuisance. At worst, it could cause a serious accident. Therefore, you’ll want to have the module replaced as soon as possible if this happens.
Issues Shifting into Higher Gears
When you gradually drive faster down the freeway, the transmission should shift into higher gears at the right time.
If this doesn’t happen, the engine’s RPM can keep increasing rather than slightly dropping as an upshift occurs, leading to never reaching your intended speed.
Struggling with Downshifting
A bad transmission control module could cause issues with downshifting as well. When driving down a highway and taking an off-ramp, your transmission should gradually go into lower gears as the speed decreases.
Once you come to a stop, it should be in first gear. With a bad TCM, you might still be in high gear when coming to a stop. However, if you’re in too high of gear before accelerating, your Honda may not move.
Getting Stuck in the Same Gear
This issue could happen in being stuck in neutral or first gear. The transmission won’t shift, and you either won’t go anywhere or be limited by the maximum speed of that first gear.
Poor Fuel Economy
An automatic transmission is engineered to give optimal gear selection and timing, resulting in a highly fuel-efficient automobile.
Check Engine Light Appears
When the check engine light pops up on your car’s dash, it could mean different things. However, if the light appears while you’re having issues with shifting, it’s most likely from the TCM or some other part inside the transmission system.
A professional can use a scan tool to check for any Diagnostic Trouble Codes to determine the reason for the warning light’s appearance.
How to diagnose Honda transmission problems?
Transmission problems will, in most cases, generate a fault code. Transmission-specific fault codes get stored in the transmission control unit and will not always set the “check engine light.”
Generic OBD2 scanners cannot read transmission fault codes. Therefore, in addition to diagnosing the check engine light, your scanner also needs to diagnose the transmission module.
What you need
A scanner that can diagnose Honda transmission problems
Instructions
- Locate the OBD-II port under the dashboard.
- Turn on the ignition.
- Allow your scanner to turn on.
- Select your Honda model, then go to the Control Unit.
- Select the Automatic Transmission menu.
- Scroll down to Read Codes and press enter.
If you have a scanner designed for Honda, it is good to perform a full system scan that will read codes in all modules.
Sometimes a problem with the mass airflow sensor, Powertrain Control Module PCM, or VSS can cause your transmission not to shift, shift erratically, or go into limp mode.
Honda TCC Lockup Solenoid Resistance Test
On Honda equipped with the four-cylinder engine, the problem could be due to the TCC lock-up solenoid. This may be the problem if you are getting fault code P1735.
Using a digital multimeter, you can perform a TCC lock-up solenoid test by meaning the resistance. The TCC solid does not need to be removed from the vehicle; it needs to be disconnected.
TCM Software Update
Honda transmission problems can also be caused due to TCM software keeping the torque converter engaged even when it is stopped. This condition puts unnecessary stress on the transmission and can shorten the life of the transmission.
Honda has developed a transmission software update to prevent the lock-up clutch from staying engaged.
Call your Honda dealer to give them your VIN and ask if there is a transmission software update. The dealer may let you know over the phone or require you to take the car to verify.
Check Battery Voltage
Hondas equipped with the latest 10-speed automatic transmission are very sensitive to voltage fluctuations. Low voltage can cause the TCM to reboot, which places the transmission in Park or Neutral.
Honda issued a recall for this problem where a software update changed the behavior on TCU reboot. NHTSA campaign number: 19V299. Honda recalls are Z4J and Y4K.
If your Honda is affected by the recall, take it to the dealer to get it serviced. If not, ensure your Honda battery is fully charged. Then, read fault codes from the transmission module to determine if the codes are voltage-related.
Change transmission fluid and filter
Only use the recommended Honda transmission fluid. Using aftermarket transmission fluid can lead to erratic shifting or premature gearbox failure. On high mileage vehicles, metal particles in the transmission fluid can cause solenoid failure. This is because metal from the torque converter or clutches is carried in the transmission fluid, getting into the solenoids.
To fix this problem, you will need to do a complete transmission fluid flush, and in some cases, you may even need to replace the valve body.
- Drain out the old transmission fluid.
- Clean the drain plug magnet
- Add three quarts of genuine Honda transmission fluid.
Check transmission fluid level with engine off
The transmission fluid pan only holds about 1/3 of the fluid. The rest of the transmission fluid is in the torque converter, lines, and cooler. To get a 100% transmission fluid change, you must perform a flush. If you change the transmission fluid every 30,000, it is not necessary to perform a flush.
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To extend the life of your Honda transmission, change the transmission fluid and filter at the recommended interval. Honda recommends changing transmission fluid between 60,000 and 90,000 miles depending on the transmission model. In some models, Honda transmission filters are considered lifetime filters and can not be easily serviced.