BUY

Two later engine safety recalls reach the third-generation J35Y6 (VCM) V6 in the 2017-2019 Ridgeline. Recall 23V751000 (2024): a connecting-rod bearing may wear and seize, damaging the engine and causing it to run improperly or stall -- it covers the 2017 and 2019 Ridgeline (and 2016/2018-2019 Pilot, 2018-2019 Odyssey and several Acura models beyond these windows); dealers inspect and repair or replace the engine free. Recall 19V298000 (2019): the timing-belt teeth may separate from the belt and stall the engine -- it covers the 2019 Ridgeline (and 2018-2019 Pilot, 2019 Odyssey, plus Acura models); dealers inspect and replace the belt, and inspect the engine, free. A snapped belt matters because the J35 is an interference engine on a scheduled timing-belt interval, unlike Honda's four-cylinders.

Check — On a 2017-2019 Ridgeline (or a later Pilot/Odyssey), run the VIN and confirm both 23V751000 (rod bearing) and 19V298000 (timing belt) are closed. Independently, confirm the timing belt has been serviced on schedule -- the J35 is an interference design, so a broken belt means bent valves, not just a tow.