Good news for 2019 Honda Ridgeline owners: your 3.5L V6 uses a timing chain, not a timing belt. This means there's no scheduled timing belt replacement and no concern about belt tensioner wear for this component. The timing chain is designed to last the life of the engine with proper maintenance.
Timing Chain vs. Timing Belt
Timing belts are rubber components that require replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles to prevent catastrophic failure. Timing chains are metal and run in an oil bath, typically lasting the life of the engine. Honda's 3.5L V6 (J35 series) has always used a timing chain since its introduction.
The timing chain connects the crankshaft to the camshafts, ensuring valve timing stays synchronized with piston position. Chain stretch is possible at very high mileages but is uncommon in well-maintained engines.
What Does Need Attention
While the timing chain doesn't require scheduled replacement, the Ridgeline does have belt-driven accessories that need periodic inspection. The serpentine belt drives the alternator, power steering pump, A/C compressor, and water pump. This belt should be inspected regularly and replaced if cracked or worn, typically every 60,000-100,000 miles.
The tensioners and idler pulleys for the serpentine belt can wear out. A squealing noise at startup or chirping during acceleration often indicates belt or tensioner issues. These are relatively inexpensive parts compared to timing components.
Timing Chain Health Indicators
Though rare, timing chain issues do occur eventually. Symptoms include: rattling noise on cold start that diminishes as the engine warms, check engine light with camshaft position codes (P0016-P0019), or visible slack in the chain if covers are removed. These symptoms typically appear well past 150,000-200,000 miles if oil changes have been maintained.
Maintaining Chain Longevity
Regular oil changes are the key to timing chain longevity. The chain and its tensioners rely on clean, properly pressurized oil. Using the recommended 0W-20 synthetic oil and changing it per Honda's schedule (or more frequently under severe conditions) maximizes chain life. Low oil level or degraded oil is the primary cause of premature chain wear.