One difference between 2017-2023 Ridgelines and 2024+ Ridgelines is that Honda changed the first rear differential fluid change down from 15,000 miles to 7,500 miles. But that doesn't explain why yours popped up at 5,300 miles and 40% engine oil life left. Another change is that Honda implemented a 1-year maximum oil change interval. So is it possible that even though you've had your Ridgeline for only 6 months, that it's actually a year old and that's why the code popped up? Is the dealer supposed to reset the Maintenance Minder at time of delivery? Or if a Ridgeline sits for 6 months on the lot, is the new owner going to get what appears to be an early first oil change?

 

The 1 year oil change didn’t start in the 2024 model year , my 2023 owners manual states MM or 1 year for an oil change, your 2023 manual should state the same. I don’t know specifically what Model year the yearly oil change was added . 😎

 

I would avoid using any aftermarket fluids until the warranty expires, as Honda specifies that DPSF II to be used.

It's pretty easy to change yourself, just save your receipts, in the event you need warranty service down the road, and Honda questions your maintenance.

 

I don't have a 2024... but I recall reading that you could see the next MM that should pop on the newer models? Which means that it will show up, but is not actually due.... did the MM actually pop up or did you just scroll to the screen showing the next MM?

 

Yes, mine seems to do this although I'm not sure how it works.

https://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/posts/3408762/

Does it show the codes that have already been crossed or does it show the codes that it's predicting will pop at the next predicted oil change?

 

To remove any possible cloud of doubt....only use genuine Honda materials during the warranty period and save all receipts.

After that you can do it any way you want.....but...if any sort of "situation" comes up like a slew of bad diffs or bad transmissions after the 60k mark, and some sort of extended coverage is provided by Honda, using Honda materials further strengthens your case.

Engine oil is a slightly different category.....as long as it has the proper API labeling and is the proper weight, the consumer should not be challenged.

Oh.....and Honda's policy is that "no additives or flushes" are supposed to be used......... and may actually cause damage.

 

I don't have a 2024... but I recall reading that you could see the next MM that should pop on the newer models? Which means that it will show up, but is not actually due.... did the MM actually pop up or did you just scroll to the screen showing the next MM?

Yes, mine seems to do this although I'm not sure how it works.

https://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/posts/3408762/

Does it show the codes that have already been crossed or does it show the codes that it's predicting will pop at the next predicted oil change?

On my 23 Ridgeline and my Wife’s 20 Pilot if you go into the infotainment screen under vehicle then maintenance it will list the upcoming MM codes, if the code has been triggered it will then only list in detail the same info that pops on the center screen until you reset them then the next one will show on the radio screen 😎
I’m actually just starting my wife’s B16 maintenance right now as I’m typing this.

 

I suspect the OP did not get a "Maintenance Due Soon/Now" message - they just simply noticed that A16 was the maintenance that will be due had they allowed the oil life to reach 15%.

Newer Hondas will show you what maintenance will be due, but it is not actually due until the oil life reaches 15% and the "Maintenance Due Soon/Now" message appears.

I've seem some owners confused by this leading to premature/unnecessary maintenance being performed.

 

My '24 was almost identical to the OP, MM indicated 40%, but had the A16 code at 5800 miles. I didn't want to wait to 15% for the first oil change, probably even waited too long at 5800. The dealer was surprised about the early rear differential code, usually said after 8000-11000.

 

For years, Honda has said to ensure proper break-in, do NOT change the engine oil until prompted by the MM.

 

Anyone have any idea of why Honda changed the Rear diff. first fluid change to 7500 mi. on the 2024+ models? Are they made differently or use a different fluid? Maybe they just decided it was better for longevity to do it earlier. Stats from the past? My 2023 has only 4000 miles. I should probably change mine at 7500 miles too. Think I will.