Took the truck in for the rear diff service and brake service on Friday morning. I came back a few hours later to pick up the truck and was informed by the service manager that both front struts were leaking and that they needed to be replaced. This is the first one they've seen, hope it's just a fluke, because I don't go offroad and this truck has only seen pavement.:(
A little info on the truck it was built December 05 and it only has 14500kms.

Sorry to hear that. Did you hit any potholes? We have some in town that are really deep and whenever I hit them I worry about damage.

You should not be able to blow out a strut on pot holes or for that matter any single hit. Struts go over time.

Greg

I can't recall hitting anything like a big pothole, besides it's both front struts not just one. The rear struts are fine. It's going in Friday for repair.

Sounds like bad struts peroid.

Need no reason why, they are flawed from the factory.

Seen struts go WAY beyond 100K before being replaced.

So these should be replaced under warenty, if not a lawyer would be a wise choice...........

Yep, my truck blew up and caught fire while it was sitting in the driveway. I'm kinda disappointed.

Got the truck back with 2 new front struts under warranty and an alignment and everything seems fine.

Yep, my truck blew up and caught fire while it was sitting in the driveway. I'm kinda disappointed.

Well now... I'm trying to figure out if this is a sarcastic remark or there is more to this story?

Ridge, please explain!

Thanks,
-Joe

funny thing,


my RL caught fire and blew up in my driveway too... just after I noticed some body wrinkles....

Damn Honda.....my Toyota would have never done this.....

Yep, my truck blew up and caught fire while it was sitting in the driveway. I'm kinda disappointed.That reminds me. What ever happened to FireRLRob (I think that was his name)? Did he ever report back the cause of his RL burning up?

My truck with 5k miles has started making a lot of rattling from the right front on rough roads and an occasional boing sound when accelerating from a stop. Took it in for oil change yesterday and told them to look for source of noise. Kinda suspected strut problem after reading here and sure enough - right front strut is bad.

Supposed to have a replacement in monday.

heck - who makes Honda's struts?

struts-r-us :eek:

Well now... I'm trying to figure out if this is a sarcastic remark or there is more to this story?

Ridge, please explain!

Thanks,
-Joe

It was the oddest thing. It happened right after I blew out all 4 struts after passing over a speed bump.:D I think you get my point. ;)

Hope things are well with you Joe and everybody else here.

That reminds me. What ever happened to FireRLRob (I think that was his name)? Did he ever report back the cause of his RL burning up?

I don't think he reported back. I could be wrong. I think he's driving a fire free Avalanche now. These Ridgelines are death traps don't ya know.;)

I think my struts are blown. I'm taking it in soon to have them checked out.

Blown struts on the Ridgeline also happened to the test RL Edmunds used.

Edmunds had to have all four struts replaced.

"One incident that has called into question our affinity for the Ridgeline is its ability to withstand off-road use. Senior Consumer Advice Editor Phil Reed took the truck on a family campout in Death Valley, California, figuring the Ridgeline was the perfect vehicle to get him, his wife and two sons to a remote campsite. The road was a long, but relatively flat stretch that seemed well within the Ridgeline's capabilities. Its surface was rough washboard but certainly nothing that couldn't be handled at modest speeds by a modern truck. "

http://www.edmunds.com/apps/vdpcontainers/do/vdp/articleId=105797/pageNumber=2

I cant debate that there were some problems with some struts used atleast on early models. Heck I know first hand since I had the boing issue, however, I did read what I believe to be a reputable reply to the now infamous Edmunds test. Specifically, the "drive thought to be well within the capabilities of the truck" was enough to burst some of the tires. I'm looking for the article as we speak. Not wanting to spread misinformation- can anyone coroborate the story. If this was the case, it certainly changes the picture some. Doesnt excuse blown struts, but also means that edmunds was fully forthcomming

There is a road test by Edmunds that statess that they had 4 blown struts on the Ridgeline they tested.

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/LongTerm/articleId=105797

There is a road test by Edmunds that statess that they had 4 blown struts on the Ridgeline they tested.

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/LongTerm/articleId=105797


Just a note about the edmund's strut failure and the road they drove it on. Here's the true story about the Edmunds Experience from someone that knows.



Honda has one of the toughest shock durability requirements in the industry as noted in the quote. Ask several of the damper suppliers if you would like to verify that information. Edmunds has a tack record of not evaluating vehicles in a engineering manner (ie duplicate conditions – same temperature – same speed - etc).

Given the road they drove on, it is widely know this is a severe surface and road that must be treated with respect. They also failed to mention they failed two tires in this run due to the sharp shale on the surface. Due to the ride damping qualities of the Ridgeline, I suspect the vehicle was driven very fast over this surface at a high ambient temperature. Based on the description, the seals failed in the struts as well as the dust shield. The temperature extreme that was required to trigger this failure is so severe, there must have been an extreme input (temps greater than 300F).

I doubt that a Tacoma could be driven controllably on that surface at the same speed/duration as the R-L. With the live rear axle, there would be so much axle hop it would be impossible to replicate the speed that is possible in a Ridgeline. During a recent trip an acquaintance made on that same road on a rental SV, they experienced 2 flat tires that had to be replaced and saw numerous other vehicles broken down along the route. Edmund’s conveniently left the detailed facts describing the route.



I can tell that "Rigeline19" and "Vtech", our 2 newest members are going to be making some valuable contributions to the forum and only with their 1st and 2nd post.

I had my struts checked and they are fine. I guess it was all in my head. :o

thanks, Ridge for having the article at your finger tips. I searched a bit for it, but came up empty handed. Still cant remember where I originally read it. After re-reading my post just now, I see that I made a typo. I meant to say Edmunds wasN'T entirely forthcomming.

There is a road test by Edmunds that statess that they had 4 blown struts on the Ridgeline they tested.

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/LongTerm/articleId=105797

Thanks, that looks like the wrap up of the Ridgeline article I posted.

That summary article seems fairly balanced and notes many of the problems we've had with our RLs.

As for the blown struts, I'm not too surprised since the RL is basically from a modified Odyssey minvan platform with a front-wheel-drive type (east/west) layout and forces the type of front suspension it has. Its not going to be as tough as a 'real' truck with a more robust layout.

It still serves my purpose though which is basically a commuter car for work.

If people want a real truck they should go to Toyota or the big 3.

Thanks, that looks like the wrap up of the Ridgeline article I posted.

That summary article seems fairly balanced and notes many of the problems we've had with our RLs.

As for the blown struts, I'm not too surprised since the RL is basically from a modified Odyssey minvan platform with a front-wheel-drive type (east/west) layout and forces the type of front suspension it has. Its not going to be as tough as a 'real' truck with a more robust layout.

It still serves my purpose though which is basically a commuter car for work.

If people want a real truck they should go to Toyota or the big 3.


One more time for you Vtech.

Honda has one of the toughest shock durability requirements in the industry as noted in the quote. Ask several of the damper suppliers if you would like to verify that information. Edmunds has a tack record of not evaluating vehicles in a engineering manner (ie duplicate conditions – same temperature – same speed - etc).

Given the road they drove on, it is widely know this is a severe surface and road that must be treated with respect. They also failed to mention they failed two tires in this run due to the sharp shale on the surface. Due to the ride damping qualities of the Ridgeline, I suspect the vehicle was driven very fast over this surface at a high ambient temperature. Based on the description, the seals failed in the struts as well as the dust shield. The temperature extreme that was required to trigger this failure is so severe, there must have been an extreme input (temps greater than 300F).

I doubt that a Tacoma could be driven controllably on that surface at the same speed/duration as the R-L. With the live rear axle, there would be so much axle hop it would be impossible to replicate the speed that is possible in a Ridgeline. During a recent trip an acquaintance made on that same road on a rental SV, they experienced 2 flat tires that had to be replaced and saw numerous other vehicles broken down along the route. Edmund’s conveniently left the detailed facts describing the route.

Vtech, You really seem to know nothing about the truck your driving at all. The big 3 make trucks and honda makes a truck. they perform to different specs. If you want to tow 10,000 lbs, don't by the Honda, but don't buy the F150 either. Buy the truck that is rated for those specs, and by the oddysey minivan platform comment, you really know nothing of the Ridgeline's chassis/frame.

......and Vtech should be VTEC in your user name. If your trying to appear like a Honda fan, you might want to know that when you reregister. ...........Rigeline19 is also mispelled. you might want to try Ridgeline19. I'm sure it's available.

It still serves my purpose though which is basically a commuter car for work.

I (usually) don't get involved in any thread that's even remotely trollish. :eek: But......
I would ask anyone that has a Ridgeline as "basically a commuter car," Why? If that's what your basically looking for, then get one. When I don't need a truck, I drive my TOL Accord VTEC. It's as quick as any car out there, is very nimble in commuter traffic, seats 4 or 5 car poolers very comfortably, has an outstanding safety rating, has a huge trunk, and gets 30 mpg. The irony is that both the Ridge and the Accord both go about the same distance on a tank of gas (22 gals vs. 14 gals). Oh, and it cost less than my Ridge. My wife commutes to work in her Prius at 45 mpg. Frankly, no truck gets sufficient mileage to warrant "commuter" status, especially with $3 gas.
I've had my front struts replace under warrenty, even with an aftermarket "lift kit" installed. Honda stands behinds their vehicles. That's one of the reasons why I drive'm.
I work long hours, travel 10-75 miles one way to work sites and carry sensitive and expensive equipment that is often used "off road." 4WD capabilities are a must. I also carry a ton of tools. Look, I could drive any truck I want (I'm the boss ;)), I choose to drive a Ridgeline because it best fullfills my needs. Oh and above all else it's a Honda.
A "commuter car" it ain't.

Who let the trolls out?:rolleyes:

What are the symptoms of the blown struts? This is my first 4wd and I've always heard that they don't take bumps and potholes as well as other vehicles. Is this true? My RL is a little rough on the bumps. Is this anything to worry about, or is this how it is? Thanks, BGR

geo,


my RL is basically a commuter vehicle for me.. I drive about 140 miles per day commuting to the office.

I needed something that hnadles snow, rain, etc, and i wasnt going to risk my life, or my wifes driving a Prius, or some other death trap small vehicle. I drive on the interstate 90% of the time and I wnat something other vehicles can see. Also comfort was why I chose the RL, and not somehting smaller, driving 3+ hours a day I was not going to be mashed into a sub compact.. as for gas mileage, Ill take the 20 mpg I get and gas ist $3.00/gallon its more like $2.85 where I live..

The RL the ultimate commuter vehicle.

geo,


my RL is basically a commuter vehicle for me.. I drive about 140 miles per day commuting to the office.

I needed something that hnadles snow, rain, etc, and i wasnt going to risk my life, or my wifes driving a Prius, or some other death trap small vehicle. I drive on the interstate 90% of the time and I wnat something other vehicles can see. Also comfort was why I chose the RL, and not somehting smaller, driving 3+ hours a day I was not going to be mashed into a sub compact.. as for gas mileage, Ill take the 20 mpg I get and gas ist $3.00/gallon its more like $2.85 where I live..

The RL the ultimate commuter vehicle.

Whoa, Chisoxjim -- I'd hardly classify Geo's Accord, for example, as a "death trap small vehicle" or a "sub compact." There are lots of vehicles available today that would make a better commute vehicle than the RL, that don't fit those two broad generalizations.

These days I use my truck about 90% of the time as a commute vehicle, and about 10% of the time as a truck. I love it as my primary vehicle, no matter how I'm using it, but I certainly wouldn't call it the "ultimate" commuter vehicle. It IS a truck, designed to be used as a truck, as well as a general purpose vehicle.

The RL the ultimate commuter vehicle.
chisoxjim,
Who am I to argue with you? ;) I was referring not to my wife's Prius, but my Accord as a commutermobile. Very high safety rating and hardly a deathtrap. I, personally, would not be able to afford to use my Ridge for commuting only. Of course, I commute to remote job sites in the Ridge to work out of my truck on site. My work requires a 4WD truck (or something similar), whether I choose to ride in comfort, style and 20 mpg or in the Chevy with little comfort (horrible seats) and 13 mpg is up to me. :rolleyes:
She never reads this so I can say it, I don't care for her Prius. Her commute (20 mile round trip) is on lightly traveled rural KS roads. I agree, it is some what of a deathtrap, but I have her heavily insured. :eek:

BTW, you guys need Thome back and consistent pitching. I'm pulling for ya! Go Go White Sox. :)

geo,


I do not like the smaller cars just because it seems you are eye level with bigger vehicles wheels, and I dont think the crash tests they do measure getting crushed by a semi...I just feel "safer" higher up..

as for the cost of using the RL for the commute, I think the comfort/size, and AWD make up for the expense. My wife and I only have one car, so that was our sacrifice allowong us the pleasure to use the RL daily.



The SOx do need THome back, I think it will be a 3 team fight for the last 2 spots in the AL, WHite Sox, Twins, and Red Sox..should be good..

I have had multiple problems with my RT. However, I would like to stay focus on the struts.

There seems to be a lot of bad strut reports for Ridgeline. Unfortunately, I am suffering from the same issue. After the long awaited struts backorder, both of my front struts were finally replaced on 8-24. Only after 2 days, the right front strut developed a leak and needed to be replaced again. There were other problems discovered such as pivote brushing ?? needing to be replaced. What evidence can anyone provide to support the statement “Honda has one of the toughest shock durability requirements in the industry.”

Not that it really matters to anyone, but I accidentally:rolleyes: plowed over a curb leaving the local Sonic drive-in. No Problem, tires weren't even scuffed...

Where exactly are yoou seeing the leaks when the strut blows,,,,do you have to crawl underneath and pull up the rubber boots or what. My truck feels like an f-150 with 100,000 miles on it. can someone tell me where to look for leakie struts

HELP ME SOMEONE! I pulled my truck on to the drive way as usual...and OIL LEAK or maybe, blown structs leak? I just bought my truck this past July '06 and leaking oil?

I haven't taken my truck off roading or hit any big pot holes! I can't believe the OIL mess is on my drive way too! The oil leak is coming from a little hole under the black plastic cover area just about a foot away from the OIL filter! Has this problem happened to anyone? I have an RTL...please help!!!:confused:

HELP ME SOMEONE! :

I have an RTL...please help!!!


Ummm.......you know those people you bought it from? You know the people that have the big H out front of their store. They have a facility in the back that takes care of sh*t like that. Give them a call.

Why are you here posting this? why aren't you at your dealer asking for their help?

Ummm.......you know those people you bought it from? You know the people that have the big H out front of their store. They have a facility in the back that takes care of sh*t like that. Give them a call.

Why are you here posting this? why aren't you at your dealer asking for their help?
Agree that he/she needs to go the dealer, but... I've noticed you ask a lot of people here why they're posting instead of going to the dealer with their problem. Several times over the past year plus that I've owned my truck I've found it really helpful to go the dealer with information I've gathered from this forum beforehand. Of course, my problems have always been minor.

Agree that he/she needs to go the dealer, but... I've noticed you ask a lot of people here why they're posting instead of going to the dealer with their problem.

I'll be asking that alot more of certain posters. I would really like to know the answer to that question. If you have a leak, why post here "Please Help me!!!!" It's ludacris, simply go to the dealer, point to the leak, and have them fix it. There's alot of trolling going on here in the problems and issues forum, and it's almost making it a joke.

geo,


I do not like the smaller cars just because it seems you are eye level with bigger vehicles wheels, and I dont think the crash tests they do measure getting crushed by a semi...I just feel "safer" higher up..

as for the cost of using the RL for the commute, I think the comfort/size, and AWD make up for the expense. My wife and I only have one car, so that was our sacrifice allowong us the pleasure to use the RL daily.



The SOx do need THome back, I think it will be a 3 team fight for the last 2 spots in the AL, WHite Sox, Twins, and Red Sox..should be good..

GOOOOO TWINS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!
Sorry chisoxjim:D

ridgelinernr,


should be a great final couple of weeks, I am hoping the Twins and Sox both leapfrog the Tigers, and they are the odd man out...

There seems to be a lot of bad strut reports for Ridgeline.

One quick question...what do you consider "a lot"? Seems like, except for the BS Edmunds article, and a few questionable posts here on this forum, I have heard nothing about bad struts being a "common" problem on the Ridgeline. I am sure, if there was a huge problem with the struts on the RL, Ford, GM, and Chrysler would be all over it like smell on a cow pie...and their media outlets would be having a field day.

Like I have said before, in several other forums...vehicles are mechanical. They are going to have break downs. I believe a few people might get bad struts and I am sure they would be replaced under warranty.

One observation...why is it most of the folks who claim to have strut problems have less than 15 posts on this forum? Not necessarily calling them trolls....but it does raise the question...don't it?

One observation...why is it most of the folks who claim to have strut problems have less than 15 posts on this forum? Not necessarily calling them trolls....but it does raise the question...don't it?

Ridge opines:

I'll be asking that alot more of certain posters. I would really like to know the answer to that question. If you have a leak, why post here "Please Help me!!!!" It's ludacris, simply go to the dealer, point to the leak, and have them fix it. There's alot of trolling going on here in the problems and issues forum, and it's almost making it a joke.

Info only: Ludicrous is correct word. Ludacris is a foul mouthed rapper.

From Divot Dog: on behalf of newbies

I would posit that new owners have little knowledge of their trucks in the early stages of ownership and that this forum provides a great deal of education about the vehicle and various problems/wonders that otherwise is essentially unavailable. Certainly the dealers and service mgrs have had (and perhaps still do) a steep learning curve. Owners likewise. It follows that a small number of posts goes with gaining information. I wonder why so many "old timers" use this forum for nonsense and personal communication, and why on earth would anyone flame a newbie with a desire to learn? It would seem that there is no need to bolster the number of posts if no problems or solutions are at hand.

How many posts did you have in the first two months of ownership?
And...who made you the arbitor of determing the value of inquiries?

Criticisms of posters adds little value to the ROC, imo. And leads to return fire responses like this one. Sorry I guess I am a reactionary.

How many posts did you have in the first two months of ownership? And...who made you the arbitor of determing the value of inquiries?

Criticisms of posters adds little value to the ROC, imo. And leads to return fire responses like this one. Sorry I guess I am a reactionary.

How many posts did I have the first couple months of RL ownership....I am not sure, but I am sure it was well over 150. I spent a lot of time here during the first few months of ownership, asking questions, and getting more familiar with my RL. Besides, it was winter when I got mine...and I had a lot of free time on my hands.

I am not being an arbitor, divotdog, so don't even attempt to go there. And, if you made an attempt to do a little history of my posts, you will see that I have been one of the few people on this forum that stand up for "newbies" on a regular basis. So get off your high friggin' horse.

With that being said, I am sure I am in the majority of the "Senior" ROC members here, when I say the knuckle-draggers coming to this forum and trolling is getting a little aggrivating to say the least. What I was pointing out is the large majority of folks who claim to be having strut problems are people who come here, post 10-12 posts, and then you never hear from them again. That just screams troll.

What's worse that somebody just coming and stirring things up, is people who come here for the first time don't know what's BS and what is actual fact/good information. I think that sucks and it ticks me off. This is a great forum and I want to keep it that way.

The only thing that any major media outlet has come out and pointed out any major mechanical failure is Edmunds with their strut article (Which, IMHO is questionable at best). Since then there have been many a troller who has come to this forum, claimed they were RL owners, and posted just plain BS. Like I said, they come here, post 10-12 posts on how their struts have blown and then you never hear from them again. That kinda crap gets old in a hurry.

If I am wrong, fine, I appologize to any new ROC members who are having strut problems and I am sorry that are having that problem. But, to the folks who are coming in here just to stir things up...they can take a flying leap!

What he said, can't say it better

HELP ME SOMEONE! I pulled my truck on to the drive way as usual...and OIL LEAK or maybe, blown structs leak? I just bought my truck this past July '06 and leaking oil?

I haven't taken my truck off roading or hit any big pot holes! I can't believe the OIL mess is on my drive way too! The oil leak is coming from a little hole under the black plastic cover area just about a foot away from the OIL filter! Has this problem happened to anyone? I have an RTL...please help!!!:confused: Have you changed the oil filter already? Sounds like it may be leaking around the filter and running down the plastic. Not sure how else oil would get in that area...unless it's really water condensation dripping from running the A/C.

I gotta tell you guys this forum is really starting to suck, I have gotten some very good info prior to buying my rtl but when I ask a question no one seems to respond, maybe because I only have 5 posts I don't know. But I constantlly see people ****ting down other peoples throat and pissin matches going back and forth when yu just should either ignore the post or respond to the question with a valid response. I asked a question the other day and someone came in after me and entered a question that seemed to take over the frikin topic which generated a dozen responses that were nothing less than rude. Try taking the high road once in awhile, I understand trolls and dislike them as well but there seems to be quite a bit of assuming on who is a troll and who isn't. And if they are a troll then they won the game by all of the responses that get generated on there question. Sorry but i felt like venting a little because i have yet to recieve a valid answer to any of my questions to date and i am no troll. My question (if any of you gentleman/ladies would care to help out is )


Where exactly are you seeing the leaks when the strut blows,,,,do you have to crawl underneath and pull up the rubber boots or what. My truck feels like an f-150 with 100,000 miles on it. can someone tell me where to look for leakie struts

I would really like an answer as my truck handles like crap. first 1000 miles perfect in love with it and 1 long dirt road prob going a little fast it was immediately noticible when i got back on pavement.

I am looking for an honest answer to an honest question, no more no less.

Thanks in advance for anyone willing to step up to the plate for this newbie.

Thanks in advance for anyone willing to step up to the plate for this newbie.

Dear Rockin,
Hope the bat's not on my shoulder! ;) I'd like to help with the leak question, but my front struts had the "boing" sound and I don't think there was ever a leak as such that I saw. When the Honda dealer had it up on the lift, they should me how hard the front wheels were to turn with the bad struts. The SM said that must be very hard on the power steering! Now it steers a lot like my Accord and not like my old 1982 F-150 Supercab!
Steve

I gotta tell you guys this forum is really starting to suck, I have gotten some very good info prior to buying my rtl but when I ask a question no one seems to respond, maybe because I only have 5 posts I don't know. But I constantlly see people ****ting down other peoples throat and pissin matches going back and forth when yu just should either ignore the post or respond to the question with a valid response. I asked a question the other day and someone came in after me and entered a question that seemed to take over the frikin topic which generated a dozen responses that were nothing less than rude. Try taking the high road once in awhile, I understand trolls and dislike them as well but there seems to be quite a bit of assuming on who is a troll and who isn't. And if they are a troll then they won the game by all of the responses that get generated on there question. Sorry but i felt like venting a little because i have yet to recieve a valid answer to any of my questions to date and i am no troll. My question (if any of you gentleman/ladies would care to help out is )


Where exactly are you seeing the leaks when the strut blows,,,,do you have to crawl underneath and pull up the rubber boots or what. My truck feels like an f-150 with 100,000 miles on it. can someone tell me where to look for leakie struts

I would really like an answer as my truck handles like crap. first 1000 miles perfect in love with it and 1 long dirt road prob going a little fast it was immediately noticible when i got back on pavement.

I am looking for an honest answer to an honest question, no more no less.

Thanks in advance for anyone willing to step up to the plate for this newbie.


I am no mechanic and one of the reason I have owned several Honda's is their willingness to make it right; my experience at least. If something is not right take it to the dealer and they do nmot charge you to check it out. If you did that and not liking ehat you heard then I would go to another dealer and if need be call Honda.

I gotta tell you guys this forum is really starting to suck, I have gotten some very good info prior to buying my rtl but when I ask a question no one seems to respond, maybe because I only have 5 posts I don't know. But I constantlly see people ****ting down other peoples throat and pissin matches going back and forth when yu just should either ignore the post or respond to the question with a valid response. I asked a question the other day and someone came in after me and entered a question that seemed to take over the frikin topic which generated a dozen responses that were nothing less than rude. Try taking the high road once in awhile, I understand trolls and dislike them as well but there seems to be quite a bit of assuming on who is a troll and who isn't. And if they are a troll then they won the game by all of the responses that get generated on there question. Sorry but i felt like venting a little because i have yet to recieve a valid answer to any of my questions to date and i am no troll. My question (if any of you gentleman/ladies would care to help out is )


Where exactly are you seeing the leaks when the strut blows,,,,do you have to crawl underneath and pull up the rubber boots or what. My truck feels like an f-150 with 100,000 miles on it. can someone tell me where to look for leakie struts

I would really like an answer as my truck handles like crap. first 1000 miles perfect in love with it and 1 long dirt road prob going a little fast it was immediately noticible when i got back on pavement.

I am looking for an honest answer to an honest question, no more no less.

Thanks in advance for anyone willing to step up to the plate for this newbie.

I had 1 leaking strut at about 6000 miles (right rear). I didn't notice any difference in handling but it made a knocking sound when going over any hard bumps (potholes, etc). I looked underneath and it was plainly visible - the outside of the strut was all wet with oil. Hope this helps, and sorry for the reaction you've gotten to your question.

Is there an after market heavy duty strut to replace these going bad?

Robert

Thank you for all of the replies, and very sorry for the venting in my earlier post, just got a little frustrated. Sounds like i may have more than a strut issue, I get a lot of shaking in the steering wheel especially when i go over small road imperfections. I will take it in this week for the strut replacements but will have them check out other things as well. Agian thank you for your input as I much prefer going in to the dealer with good information so i can feed em and not have to take it in multiple times for the same issue. Thanks....

"Is there an after market heavy duty strut to replace these going bad?

Robert"


I guess thats a no.

Robert :D

How can I figure out if a strut or mount is loose? I have a metal on metal rattle, seems to be coming from the front or under the hood. Thanks

How can I figure out if a strut or mount is loose? I have a metal on metal rattle, seems to be coming from the front or under the hood. Thanks


Take a look here, it contains a link to all TSB's out on the Ridgeline. Pay special attention to the one concerning the steering mechanism.

http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10789&highlight=TSB%27s

This seems to be a common problem on the Ridgeline. Mine have all been replaced and I had to wait a month and a half because the parts were on back order the second time.

I love the ridgeline but mine is 11 months old and has had 12 diffent problems, two are ongoing. I do have 35,500 miles on it.

The bad part is that Honda customer service is HORRIBLE to deal with. The worst that I have ever seen. They will take care of nothing or address any issues. They will not call you back and will never allow you to speak to a supervisor. The only answers I can ever get is through a lawyer.

47,000 miles.

been through my share of construction sights with 1,000 lbs of brick in back. No strut issues..

Struts problems are not a common issue.

If it is not a common problem, why were the struts back ordered for a month and a half the second time mine had to be replaced?

not sure, dont care..

Im sure I would have experienced it if it was a major flaw. 47,000 miles since January..lots of heavy loads over terribly rough terrain...

Struts wear out. They are not expected to last the lifetime of your truck, but they should last 60,000 before you start to worry about getting them replaced. While seemingly not common to have Ridgeline struts go bad, they tend to go bad right away, not at 30 or 40,000 or at their half-life. There have been quite a few reports in the club of these early defective struts, but not enough for Honda to have issued a TSB, unlike quite common problems like steering wheel creak, leaks, or windshield noise.

Always take your truck immediately to the dealer if you hear unusual sounds or feel unusual vibrations. These often are warning signs that you have a safety issue and should not be ignored for too long.

You must be a lucky one. For parts to be that far back order there are a LOT being replaced. Mine have been done twice in 36k miles.

I've been on severe washboard roads and off road with no problem with struts ever. If it were a wide spread problem, I think I would know it.

My front struts made the "pop" or "doe-ing" sound virtually from day one. They were replaced under warranty. Fixed issue 100%. :)
Common or uncommon. Wide spread or isolated. If you have but one Ridgeline and it has the strut issue, then it's "wide spread" for you. :eek:
Honda stood by mine and they'll stand by others too.

I had a blown strut replaced at about 9000 miles. Started with a quiet rumble while going over bumps. It got louder as time went on. I looked behind the wheel and could see moisture (oil droplets on the spring). I now have 13000 miles and have noticed small amount of liquid on the driveway (in line with the strut) and more moisture on the springs. Truck has been backed in the driveway some, so not quite sure about what side or both sides. Still investigating and will go to dealer when time permits. Never had it off road.

Calm down boys...you know that all cars have problems. The Ridgeline has several of its own, being a new model. Things can and will happen to mechanical machines. Honda's are not perfect, but they are better than many other makes out there.
Don't take things so personally and yes, sh#t happens!

Yes there is a recall being drawn up on the struts for the 06-07 ridgeline trucks theye are not heavy duty enough for the front end or the back end of the truck as they are the same stuts as they put in the odessy van. so we should see a recall notice in the mail shortly as i was told by Honda I have had stuts replaced all 4 twice, and do not go off roading I pull a 20 ft boat that weighs in a 4600lbs yes it is heavy but the specs say it can tow 5000lbs so they will be replacing all stuts again again and again untill maybe a solid axle can be installed like the trucks that have been made for oh I don't know 115 years pissed but will get over it

I highly doubt that there is a "recall being drawn up". As much as i love Honda as a company, they do some things that are, well business like. Recalls are very very rare. Recalls will ONLY be issued for one of two reasons.... Non-compliance with emissions regulations, or an actual verifiable safety concern.

Struts that make a pop or doe-ing noise are not unsafe. Are they annoying? Yep. but not unsafe. Manufacturers never recall something because it is poorly designed, or flawed.... they are fine with parts failures, so long as it's safe.

Proof of this fact is the 2001-2003 Honda Civics. The change from double wishbone to Macphearson struts brought with it significant supplier problems. There were numerous strut failures, with very low mileage. I still replace struts on Civics every couple weeks. I have probably done 500 or more in the 5 or 6 years since the 01 body style debuted. Never once did Honda issue a recall. No bulletins, no service articles, no nothing. If you were out of warranty.... tough. You got socked with a 500-700 dollar repair bill. No reimbursement, no nothing. Why? Because a failed, leaking, weak strut is perfectly safe. It will bounce and not ride comfortably, but its still safe.

There is another practice that I disagree with, not exclusive to Honda either. It is called warranty up-sell.... and it's forbidden. Warranty repairs are done by the dealer, and then the dealer is re-imbursed by Honda. honda does not like to pay for warranty, which I cannot blame them for - a business decision.

However, when a customer comes in with a specific complaint.... lets say a check engine light is on, warranty has to pay for it. (assuming it's covered)
Lets just say though that while i am looking at it... I notice that there is a drive axle seal that is leaking. I can't fix that under warranty - unless the customer complained about it, or it is an "immediate safety concern"
Yes you read that correct - I cannot fix a problem under warranty unless the customer has complained about it. So for a customer to ask that the vehicle be "looked over" is kind of meaningless. We'll make sure it's safe... but we can't fix anything.

I feel that this is a bad practice, and it is done by almost ALL the manufacturers. It comes down to the dollar - they don't want to fix it unless they HAVE to. That's what brings us back to recalls.... unless they HAVE to do something about it, they won't..... until they get a chance to find a new supplier, or implement a change on the production line.


My opinions.... take them for whatever you will.




HT

Yes you read that correct - I cannot fix a problem under warranty unless the customer has complained about it. So for a customer to ask that the vehicle be "looked over" is kind of meaningless. We'll make sure it's safe... but we can't fix anything.

I feel that this is a bad practice, and it is done by almost ALL the manufacturers. It comes down to the dollar - they don't want to fix it unless they HAVE to. That's what brings us back to recalls.... unless they HAVE to do something about it, they won't..... until they get a chance to find a new supplier, or implement a change on the production line.


My opinions.... take them for whatever you will.

A couple of days ago, I took you to task for sounding like you were giving us the Honda company line about the Hesitiation issue and not doing what you normally do as acting as an advocate for the membership of ROC and giving us insider information that was useful and to our advantage in dealing with our dealerships. Well, I give you some points back today for your above post about how it really is when comes to going for work and not really understanding what level of an effort must be made by the owner to request warrenty work and to not leave it to the technician to look out for you in all cases.

A couple of days ago, I took you to task for sounding like you were giving us the Honda company line about the Hesitiation issue and not doing what you normally do as acting as an advocate for the membership of ROC and giving us insider information that was useful and to our advantage in dealing with our dealerships. Well, I give you some points back today for your above post about how it really is when comes to going for work and not really understanding what level of an effort must be made by the owner to request warrenty work and to not leave it to the technician to look out for you in all cases.
Which, if nothing else, reinforces the eternal truth that knowledge is power and ergo, this forum is, well, powerful!

I think in a lot of cases the tech would love to look out for you. i get paid no matter what - either by the customer or by warranty. I have all the motive in the world to fix anything and everything that is wrong with a car. It's the profit watchers that keep us in check at, unfortunately, the cost of the customer.




HT

Herman, you bought your truck in June 2007 and have had the struts replaced 2 already? Hmm seems odd?

good catch eagles..

8 struts in a month, that must be some kind of record.. :rolleyes:


For the record, 78,000 miles, and I still have the original struts, and the RL rides as nice as it did the day I drove it off the lot.

This thread is about blown struts?.......at least the struts are happy......

good catch eagles..

8 struts in a month, that must be some kind of record..

Ol' Herman joined in June, that doesn't make his truck only a few days old. He has more blown struts than a Ridgeline junkyard, but that doesn't make him a bad guy, unless of course he is, Uh Oh, not the body wrinkle guy again.:D

I only went by his first post, "I just picked up my 2007", not just the join date, plus I added in the rear axle to the Real truck and Oddessy comment. I could have jumped to the wrong conclusion.

This thread is about blown struts?.......at least the struts are happy......

:confused: :confused: :D

Originally Posted by Humble Pie http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?p=219312#post219312)
This thread is about blown struts?.......at least the struts are happy......


Ummmmm..... Nope, staying away :o

This thread is about blown struts?.......at least the struts are happy......

LMAO!!!!!!!!! :D

LMAO!!!!!!!!! :D

Nope... still trying to stay away :o

Took the RTL in the other day for oil change, fuel pump relay recall, trailer backup light TSB fix and while they had it in the shop they noticed the right rear shock was leaking. I hadn't noticed anything yet and it was replaced under warranty.

I figure that with any vehicle - some part is going to go bad - I've had 3 Honda's now and it's been my experience that Honda steps up to the plate and does it right.

Dealer did the reverse light fix under warranty also.

Struts that make a pop or doe-ing noise are not unsafe. Are they annoying? Yep. but not unsafe. Manufacturers never recall something because it is poorly designed, or flawed.... they are fine with parts failures, so long as it's safe.

HT - Since you are a tech, can you tell us what the procedure is for verifying a bad strut? A leaky strut is easy to see, but you can blow the internal seals without leaking fluid externally. Given normal road irregularities I don't know how you would isolate one corner versus another when driving. A big vehicle won't respond very well to pushing down on one corner (high rate springs prevent much compression). The only 'test' I can think of is to drive perpendicular and steady speed over a speed bump.

I had a strut replaced about a month ago and will be taking my RL back to have them look at it again. The same nosie (sounds like aspring releasing it's tension) is back, albeit less frequently. The first strut was replaced at a little over 2k miles.

I really do appreciate Honda Techs honest comments although I am hoping that they will say yeah this is going to be addressed by Honda. A strut every 2k or so is irritating and means I'll be doing this another 15 times or so over the next few years:eek:

I had a strut replaced about a month ago and will be taking my RL back to have them look at it again. The same nosie (sounds like aspring releasing it's tension) is back, albeit less frequently. The first strut was replaced at a little over 2k miles.

I really do appreciate Honda Techs honest comments although I am hoping that they will say yeah this is going to be addressed by Honda. A strut every 2k or so is irritating and means I'll be doing this another 15 times or so over the next few years:eek:
Could it be the strut on the other side making the noise?
The dealer replaced both of mine a year ago and 30k later, no problem!

HT - Since you are a tech, can you tell us what the procedure is for verifying a bad strut? A leaky strut is easy to see, but you can blow the internal seals without leaking fluid externally. Given normal road irregularities I don't know how you would isolate one corner versus another when driving. A big vehicle won't respond very well to pushing down on one corner (high rate springs prevent much compression). The only 'test' I can think of is to drive perpendicular and steady speed over a speed bump.

The criteria for replacing a strut is basically three things.... they are noisy, or the leak fluid, or they bounce too much - rarely happens without fluid loss. As for determining the actual corner at fault, a well seasoned ear can usually hear the correct corner. If not, you can use a ChassisEar system, that allows you to listen through headphones to different areas of the vehicle to narrow down the noise. Still, the road test is probably the most useful tool in diagnosing any complaint relating to NVH.... (noise, vibration, harshness)




HT

I had a strut replaced about a month ago and will be taking my RL back to have them look at it again. The same nosie (sounds like aspring releasing it's tension) is back, albeit less frequently. The first strut was replaced at a little over 2k miles.

I really do appreciate Honda Techs honest comments although I am hoping that they will say yeah this is going to be addressed by Honda. A strut every 2k or so is irritating and means I'll be doing this another 15 times or so over the next few years:eek:

It may have been slightly unclear before.... Honda will address the issue of the struts. The only bad thing is the method they will use. Once there is a significant and consistent problem, they will pressure their supplier to make improvements, or they will find a different supplier. These "newer, better" parts are implemented on the assembly line.... This is why some RL's have issues and some don't. As for the mass numbers of less than perfect parts that are in service.... when the "newer, better" part is implemented, it goes into parts stock.... so when a customer comes in with a strut complaint, they get it replaced with a "newer, better" part.

Meaning - if you have a 2006 RL and you brought it in in 2006 for a strut replacement.... and then had the same problem in say 2008 - the 2008 model replacement strut would be superior to the 2006 model replacement part.

Part numbers usually reflect this too.... like an early part might be
13127-SOX-A01 and the newer, better part might have a number like
13127-SOX-A04

Those are just made up numbers, but they show how the last digit changes with different part implements.






HT

It may have been slightly unclear before.... Honda will address the issue of the struts. The only bad thing is the method they will use. Once there is a significant and consistent problem, they will pressure their supplier to make improvements, or they will find a different supplier. These "newer, better" parts are implemented on the assembly line.... This is why some RL's have issues and some don't. As for the mass numbers of less than perfect parts that are in service.... when the "newer, better" part is implemented, it goes into parts stock.... so when a customer comes in with a strut complaint, they get it replaced with a "newer, better" part.

Meaning - if you have a 2006 RL and you brought it in in 2006 for a strut replacement.... and then had the same problem in say 2008 - the 2008 model replacement strut would be superior to the 2006 model replacement part.

Part numbers usually reflect this too.... like an early part might be
13127-SOX-A01 and the newer, better part might have a number like
13127-SOX-A04

Those are just made up numbers, but they show how the last digit changes with different part implements.






HT

Yes that makes sense. As far as the previose poster, it may be the other strut, but I was assured that the strut replaced was the only one with a problem hence my comment about this.

My 2006 blew a rear strut under normal use (at 33K mi). Lost all the oil. The dealer replaced both rear struts and they did not match the original. Looks like an offroad strut with a boot. I asked them to inspect the front struts and the tech wrote on the repair log....Front struts are fine for now.

Wonder what is going on w/ the struts.

approaching 80,000 miles with original struts, nothing going on with mine, and i have to drive down a 1/4 mile stretch of road with potholes, and washouts at least twice a day to get to my house.

I had a bad strut replaced at 9000 miles. Just took it in at 13000 miles and had the same strut replaced again. Anybody know how long the warranty is on struts. 3yrs/36000 miles?

Hey Guys. I just walked past my 3 week old '07 RTS and noticed a puddle of clear fluid on the floor inside my left rear tire. That's right....STRUT LEAK! I got underneath to verify my assumption, and not only saw that the strut WAS leaking fluid, but that the other strut tower had drip stains on it as well. To add insult to injury, the seam on my rear diff. is also wet. All with only 900 pavement miles, I might add. Do I win a prize for having the least mileage on the thread? Guess who I'm calling first thing in the morning??

Well, my 2006 Ridgeline bought in Dec 2005 has 15,000 miles. In it's first 13,000 miles it might have been off a paved road/street, on a gravel road, for about 10 miles. Never 'off-road'.

A couple of months ago I went to northeastern New Mexico, near the Boy Scout Camp Philmont and Angel Fire areas. I drove it about 100 miles (max) on some dirt roads. About 40 miles was very 'rub-boardie', but I only drove at 25 or 30mph max, at times much less when it really was rough.

My truck now has a 'noisie' suspension. On paved streets with minor imperfections (bumps), the suspension now 'rattles'. I've looked at the struts and do not see any leakage.

But, do you fellow posters think I've 'blown' the struts. The truck is definitely noisier than before, and I'm not happy about this at only 15,000 miles and what I consider only a very few dirt road miles, taken at a very reasonable rate of speed.

Well, my 2006 Ridgeline bought in Dec 2005 has 15,000 miles. In it's first 13,000 miles it might have been off a paved road/street, on a gravel road, for about 10 miles. Never 'off-road'.

A couple of months ago I went to northeastern New Mexico, near the Boy Scout Camp Philmont and Angel Fire areas. I drove it about 100 miles (max) on some dirt roads. About 40 miles was very 'rub-boardie', but I only drove at 25 or 30mph max, at times much less when it really was rough.

My truck now has a 'noisie' suspension. On paved streets with minor imperfections (bumps), the suspension now 'rattles'. I've looked at the struts and do not see any leakage.

But, do you fellow posters think I've 'blown' the struts. The truck is definitely noisier than before, and I'm not happy about this at only 15,000 miles and what I consider only a very few dirt road miles, taken at a very reasonable rate of speed.
Check the tie rod ends. A deformed boot is an indication. If this is the problem, check into aftermarket. Next time I will. :(

wow I just read this whole thread and now my head is spinning...

cliff notes:
1. people with low post counts that are complaining about blown struts must be trolls
2. got a problem with your truck? take it to the dealer
3. edmunds tested the ridge when it first came out and they blew the struts, but the article was BS and the test was un-scientific
4. jim has personally never had a problem with his struts so there IS NO PROBLEM ;)
5. honda-tech will fix your struts if there blown, but only if you ask him too
6. no aftermarket struts are available, but the newest oem struts might be better than the older versions...

Is there an after market heavy duty strut to replace these going bad?

Robert

:confused:

4. jim has personally never had a problem with his struts so there IS NO PROBLEM ;)


you are correct sir. :D


keepin up with the trolls is tough work. ;) :D

Sidenote to the magazine article about blown struts.

The struts on that truck had melted components on both the top and bottom of the struts. The only way (According to one of the Honda engineers at the 2007 National Meet) for this to happen, was to intentionally drive on a surface (Washboard) at speeds beyond all safe expectations and for duration of time that would far exceed any design expectations. In short, they drove the truck like it was in a race over washboard surfaces in excess of one hour.

For the record, my right rear strut has started leaking at 74,000 miles and I have driven my truck offroad on trails on Colorado. However, 99% of the trucks life has been spent driving on the highway.

I seem to recall consumer reports also blowing struts when they originally tested the ridge, but they may have just been referring to the edmunds test (tom cape please chime in I know you have a library full of CR)

I remember reading that edmunds test while thinking to myself 'no matter, i will just throw a set of bilsteins on it when the warranty runs out' :o :cool: DOH'

ps. sorry to revive the old threads, but I feel better searching/bumping them rather than starting a new thread every time a question comes to mind (cough)bass ;)

I was driving (lost) in boston the other day on my way to the cape to pick up a moped ( not important i guess) but anyway there is a strut pop at low speeds from the front of my ridge , I was going to have a tech check it out today but the snow messed that up , no road testing today
oh 24" of snow still did not need or use my heated mirrors

mike

Past couple months I've been hearing a kind of clunk from the passenger side rear suspension when going over small potholes. Checked all I can without removing the wheel and can't see anything out of the usual.
I will be doing oil change/tire rotation this weekend so is there a way to tell if I've got a bad strut? Check for oil/leaky spots? (nothing on the garage floor).
Anything else?
Thanks for any info.

Pull down the dirt cover and look for fluid. One of my rears is leaking, but at 72K, I will ride it out :) until 100K when I plan to replace all four.

no issues with mine yet but does anyone make after market struts for the RL yet?

all I could find were the KYB GR-2's

http://www.tirerack.com/suspension/Susptabl.jsp?autoMake=Honda&autoModel=Ridgeline+RTX&autoYear=2007&autoModClar=&brand=all

these are the ones I really want, billstein HD.
I had them on my lifted tahoe, and abused them hard with no problems so I also put them on my wifes 4runner. they can take some serious pounding!

http://www.tirerack.com/suspension/suspension.jsp?make=Bilstein&model=HD+Shock

the annoying part is that the first review is from someone with a CRV...how can they make heavy duty shocks for the CRV and not the ridgeline? :confused:

the annoying part is that the first review is from someone with a CRV...how can they make heavy duty shocks for the CRV and not the ridgeline? :confused:

CRV's outsell the Ridgeline about 1000:1

61K miles on my '06 Ridgeline. Had the driver's front strut replaced about a week ago due to problems/noise. $100.00 under Honda Care warranty. I took the bait and also got the truck re-aligned for an extra $79.00.

I have heard a low thud when turning left out of my driveway.... after visiting the dealer in bel air, md today i was advised that the right strut would have to be replaced under warranty. i have an appointment tommorrow for the replacement service, when asking the service manager if both left and front should be replaced, so they would be the same i was told no, only if you had lots of miles on them, at 23,000 miles and and new right strut coming, shouldn't both sides be replaced? the service manager said warranty work only covered defective parts, should i insist on an alignment?
thanks and happy new year

With only 10k miles on my Ridge, I'm now in need of right rear strut. I have'nt towed or haul anything substancial yet, or been off road. A little premature. Atleast it'll be covered.

With only 10k miles on my Ridge, I'm now in need of right rear strut. I have'nt towed or haul anything substancial yet, or been off road. A little premature. Atleast it'll be covered.

Why do you think you need a rear strut???

Why do you think you need a rear strut???

It's leaking badly with pools of fluid on my drive and on the trucks frame. dealer doesn't have one in stock yet so I have to go back in a week.

That sucks. You probably just got one that had a seal nicked on assembly. Good luck and let us know how it turns out!

That sucks. You probably just got one that had a seal nicked on assembly. Good luck and let us know how it turns out!

What's weird is it happened to my 04' Pilot when it was only less than a year old.

I commute with mine every day, and use it for camping trips with the scouts or when the wife and I need to go someplace and the weather is bad, or to haul the occasional load of mulch, etc. It makes a pretty comfortable commuter vehicle that can handle some pretty tough road conditions. I can afford the gas.:act035:

45,000 miles. Pavement only. Passenger strut broken.

I told them I was pretty sure that it was a broken strut. I've had similar problems with some of the other half dozen Honda products I've owned. It still took them 3 hours to diagnose and then, they didn't have one in stock. I have to go back in a week.

Honda definitely has a problem with struts.

I've only got about 45,000 miles on my 2006 Ridgeline. When on streets that have bumps, cracks, small depressions, etc, I now have some 'rattles' when turning. I don't seem to hear much driving straight, but in slow speed turns, if the street is not perfectly smooth, I get rattles from the front.

I looked, neither of the front strut 'shock' parts are leaking fluid.

Is it possible the 'shock' portions of the struts are ok, and the problem is with the rubber mounts and/or the strut springs?

I don't want to replace the struts, but the real problem is rubber mounts.... And the regular struts do not appear to come with the rubber mount parts. You only get the strut, the shock part when you order a basic 'strut'. Amazon has front struts for about $95. But I would like to know if I need the rubber mounts. Or maybe the springs are also weak????

How do you tell????

Could be a number of things. Use the google search tool and look for clunks bumps sway bars windshield wiper fluid reservoir ect. Lots of different things cause similar noises.

I've got almost 151,000 miles on my 06 Ridge. I have not experienced any strut problems, yet. When do I need to replace them and are there better strut replacements other than OEM struts? Thanks

I've got almost 151,000 miles on my 06 Ridge. I have not experienced any strut problems, yet. When do I need to replace them and are there better strut replacements other than OEM struts? Thanks

Monroe, KYB, and OEM all seem to be similar. No upgrades available AFAIK.
But considering how far you have gone on the original, that should not be an issue.

Monroe, KYB, and OEM all seem to be similar. No upgrades available AFAIK.
But considering how far you have gone on the original, that should not be an issue.

Ok, great! Should I keep the original OEM struts on till ones blows or starts leaking?

Thanks

Ok, great! Should I keep the original OEM struts on till ones blows or starts leaking?

Thanks

Inspect any for leaks, if OK then do the ol' bounce test, I guess.

That would be the way to do it.

Thanks guys! Have a Great Week.

My father was the previous owner of my '06. At around 55K miles, both front struts were leaking and both were repaired under either a recall or a TSB, but for free, by the dealer.