Honda Announces Massive Recall for 250,000 SUVs Due to Rod Bearing Issues

Critical Recall for Honda SUVs

Honda has issued a significant recall affecting 250,000 SUVs from model years 2015 to 2020, addressing a serious issue with rod bearings that could lead to engine failure. This defect primarily impacts the 3.5-liter V6 engine, known for its 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, found in several popular models. A malfunction in these rod bearings, which are crucial components connecting the connecting rod to the crankshaft, can cause the crankshaft to seize, potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage.

What Owners Need to Know

The recall affects various models, including the Honda Pilot (2016, 2018, 2019), Acura TLX (2015-2020), Honda Ridgeline (2017, 2019), Acura MDX (2016-2020), and Honda Odyssey (2018-2019). Honda has identified a manufacturing flaw in the crankshaft machining process, which leads to inadequate lubrication of the rod bearings and subsequent engine issues such as unusual noises, stalling, or loss of power. Owners should be aware that Honda will address the problem at no cost, including a possible engine replacement, but the repair process will be time-consuming due to the need for thorough disassembly and inspection.

2023 Ford Ranger vs. Honda Ridgeline: A Study in Contrasts

Comparing the 2023 Ford Ranger and Honda Ridgeline

While midsize trucks like the Ford Ranger and Honda Ridgeline are smaller than full-size pickups, they still offer robust capabilities for daily driving and light towing. Both models feature practical cargo spaces, yet their appeal differs, with the Ridgeline currently experiencing a surge in popularity compared to the Ranger. Despite their differences, the Ridgeline’s growing sales highlight its unique advantages over the Ranger, especially in terms of comfort and features.

Honda Ridgeline’s Rising Popularity

Recent sales data reveals a notable increase in the Honda Ridgeline’s popularity, with over 4,000 units sold in July and a total of 31,605 units for the year. This represents nearly a 33% growth compared to the previous year, despite minimal design changes. The Ridgeline’s success is attributed to its well-rounded features, including a smooth ride and practical design elements like its in-bed trunk and multi-function tailgate, despite its modest towing capacity and lack of off-road trims.

Challenges and Opportunities for the Ford Ranger

In contrast, the Ford Ranger has seen a dip in overall sales, with a 25% decrease year-to-date despite a small increase in July. The Ranger boasts a powerful turbo-four engine and impressive towing capacity but struggles with its body-on-frame ride quality and limited standard technology features. Upcoming models, including the highly anticipated Ranger Raptor, which promises advanced off-roading capabilities and a powerful twin-turbo V6, could rejuvenate interest and compete more effectively against the Ridgeline’s growing appeal.

What Lies Ahead

As the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor and next-gen Honda Ridgeline approach their market releases, it’s uncertain which model will capture more attention. While the Ridgeline’s current success underscores its appeal, the Ranger’s anticipated upgrades could shift the balance. For now, the Ranger’s ability to revitalize its market position will be crucial in balancing the competitive landscape of midsize trucks.

Used Honda Ridgeline Prices Are Rapidly Decreasing

We’re starting to wonder if the Honda Ridgeline is in trouble because prices for used models are dropping at an alarming rate. While used truck prices are dropping across the board, used Honda Ridgeline prices are falling the fastest.

Is buying a used Honda Ridgeline worth it?

Yes, buying a used Honda Ridgeline is an excellent way to save on an upscale truck that’s practical, comfortable, and spacious. It often ranks as the best mid-size truck because of its SUV-like handling, loaded interior, and abundant passenger space.

Because the Ridgeline is such a high-ranking option, it’s a little odd for used models to be decreasing at a faster rate compared to rivals.

iSeeCars analyzed over 1.8 million used vehicles in the market that are between one to five years old to determine the biggest price differences between June 2022 and June 2023.

The study found that the average price for a used Ridgeline in June was $34,617, which is a 4.1% decrease or $1,469 less compared to the same time period last year.

The average price for a used Toyota Tacoma in June 2023 was $37,300, which is a 2.5% decrease or $937 less than it was in June 2022.

This is interesting because the Ridgeline is more modern and comfortable than the Tacoma, and it has a higher starting price. But on the other hand, the Tacoma is built for more durable off-roading applications.

How reliable is the Honda Ridgeline?

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline has an average reliability rating. It has a score of 80 out of 100 from J.D.Power. Scores between 70 and 80 are average, while anything between 81 to 90 is above average.

It missed the above-average category by one point! Used Honda Ridgeline models from this generation have a similar score because this truck has been more or less the same since 2017. Also, rivals like the Toyota Tacoma have an above-average reliability score.

You can expect the average Ridgeline truck to last between 200,000 to 250,000 miles. Some Ridgeline models have made it over 300,000 miles. Proper maintenance and regular care is the key to survival, so carefully review the history of your used Ridgeline model before buying it.

If you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year, then your Ridgeline could provide around 17 years of service on the road.

Does the Ridgeline have a good resale value?

The Honda Ridgeline doesn’t have the best resale value. This could be why used Honda Ridgeline prices are dropping. Anyway, the Ridgeline only retains about 56.9% of its resale value after five years.

If a Ridgeline depreciates by about 29% after five years, then it should have a resale value of about $32,457. Since the Ridgeline had a mid-cycle refresh, sales have been up.

It’s possible that used Honda Ridgeline models are dropping in price because leases are ending and there’s more inventory available. Also, truck sales are starting to slow due to rising inflation rates.

Having an average reliability rating and weak resale value probably doesn’t help. This comfortable truck still deserves a chance, though. Stay tuned as we continue tracking trends among used vehicles.