Honda Ridgeline Engine Mounts: A Guide for 2006-2015 Models
Feeling vibrations or hearing clunks? Your Ridgeline's engine mounts might be the culprit.
- The most common signs of failure are excessive vibration at idle and clunking noises when accelerating or shifting gears.
- OEM mounts offer the best quality but are expensive; aftermarket quality varies significantly, with many owners reporting vibration issues from budget brands.
- Many Honda mounts are hydraulic; replacing a hydraulic mount with a solid rubber one will likely increase cabin vibration.
- Replacement is a moderately difficult DIY job that requires safely supporting the engine.
Is Your Ridgeline Shaking? Signs of a Failing Engine Mount
When an engine mount fails on your 2006-2015 Ridgeline, the signs are hard to ignore. The most common symptom is a new or excessive vibration felt inside the cabin, especially at idle or when the A/C is running. You might feel it through the steering wheel, seats, or floorboards. Another clear sign is a loud clunking or thumping noise when you accelerate, decelerate, or shift from Park to Drive or Reverse. This noise is the engine itself moving too much and hitting other components. In severe cases, you can even see the engine rock significantly if a helper watches under the hood while you briefly put the truck in gear with your foot firmly on the brake.
Known Issue: Rear Engine Mount Chirp
While not specific to the 2006-2015 generation, Honda issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 20-068) for later model Ridgelines (2018-2019) for a chirping noise from a failing rear engine mount. This highlights that engine mounts are a known wear item on these trucks. If you hear a persistent chirp when the engine is warm and in Drive, it's worth inspecting the rear mount.
Choosing an Aftermarket Engine Mount: OEM vs. Aftermarket
When replacing engine mounts, you have a choice between Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts and aftermarket parts. OEM mounts are the exact same part your Ridgeline came with from the factory. They guarantee a perfect fit and ride quality but are the most expensive option. Aftermarket parts are made by other companies and offer a wide range of quality and price.
For a component like an engine mount, which greatly affects ride comfort, the quality of the rubber or hydraulic fluid is critical. Many owners and mechanics report that cheaper aftermarket mounts can cause excessive vibration right after installation or fail much sooner than OEM parts. Some forum users have had negative experiences with brands like DEA and Westar, citing premature failure and increased vibrations. Brands like Beck Arnley aim to match OE specifications and are often considered a higher-tier aftermarket option for Japanese vehicles like Honda. Anchor is a widely available, budget-friendly option, but reviews are mixed, with some users experiencing increased vibration.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Mount) |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $150 - $300+ |
| New Aftermarket | $48 - $89 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $400 (per mount) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many engine mounts does my 2006-2015 Ridgeline have?
The Honda Ridgeline with the 3.5L V6 engine typically has a system of mounts securing the engine and transmission. This usually includes a front mount, a side mount, and a rear mount, along with transmission mounts. You may not need to replace all of them at once. A mechanic can identify which specific mount has failed.
Is it difficult to replace a Ridgeline engine mount myself?
Replacing an engine mount is a moderately difficult job for a DIY mechanic. It requires safely supporting the engine with a jack and wood block while you unbolt the old mount and install the new one. Access can be tight, especially for the side and rear mounts, often requiring the removal of other components like the fuse box or computer module bracket. If you are not comfortable supporting an engine and working in tight spaces, it's best to leave this job to a professional.
Will a cheap aftermarket mount really be that bad?
It's a gamble. While some budget-friendly mounts work fine, many forum users report issues with brands like DEA, Westar, and sometimes Anchor, leading to harsh vibrations or a short service life. Since the labor to replace a mount is significant, spending a bit more on a higher-quality aftermarket brand like Beck Arnley or an OEM part can save you from having to do the job twice.
Do I need to replace all the mounts at the same time?
Not necessarily. It's common to replace only the failed mount. However, if one mount has failed due to age and mileage, the others are likely not far behind. If your budget allows and you are already paying for labor, replacing them as a set can be a good preventative measure.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 50806-SJC-A01
The 2006-2015 Honda Ridgeline uses a multi-point engine mounting system for its 3.5L J-series V6 engine, including front, side, and rear mounts, some of which are hydraulic to dampen vibration.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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