In the current pre-owned truck market, a used 2017 Honda Ridgeline typically costs between $13,500 and $22,500, depending on trim level, drive configuration, mileage, and vehicle condition. Base FWD models with higher mileage anchor the lower end of the spectrum, while fully loaded AWD trims like the RTL-E and Black Edition command premium pricing.
2017 Honda Ridgeline Price Overview and Valuation Summary
When Honda reintroduced the Ridgeline for the 2017 model year after a brief hiatus, it ushered in the vehicle's second generation. Built on a unibody platform shared largely with the Honda Pilot, the 2017 Ridgeline challenged traditional body-on-frame midsize trucks by offering car-like ride quality, superior interior space, and innovative bed features.
Original manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2017 Honda Ridgeline ranged from $29,475 for the entry-level RT Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) model up to $42,870 for the range-topping Black Edition with standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
Pre-owned market values reflect sustained demand for midsize utility vehicles that prioritize daily comfort, fuel efficiency, and suburban utility over extreme off-roading. Depreciation on the 2017 Ridgeline has followed a predictable curve. Low-mileage, well-maintained top-tier trims retain strong value due to standard active safety technology and luxury features, while lower trim FWD variants offer an accessible price point for budget-conscious buyers needing open-bed utility.
2017 Honda Ridgeline Trim Level Pricing & Feature Comparison
The 2017 Ridgeline was offered in seven distinct trim levels. The bottom five trims (RT, RTS, Sport, RTL, and RTL-T) came standard with Front-Wheel Drive and offered Honda's Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) All-Wheel Drive system as a factory option. The top two trims (RTL-E and Black Edition) included i-VTM4 AWD as standard equipment.
The table below details original launching prices alongside estimated used vehicle values based on typical market conditions, accounting for average odometer readings between 80,000 and 130,000 miles.
| Trim Level | Drive Type | Original 2017 MSRP (Base) | Typical Used Market Range | Key Standard Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RT | FWD (AWD optional) | $29,475 | $13,500 – $15,500 | Push-button start, dual-action tailgate, in-bed trunk, 4.2-inch color multi-information display, 18-inch alloy wheels. |
| RTS | FWD (AWD optional) | $31,515 | $14,500 – $16,500 | Adds remote engine start, tri-zone automatic climate control, fog lights, body-colored door handles and mirrors. |
| Sport | FWD (AWD optional) | $33,015 | $15,000 – $17,500 | Adds black exterior trim, gray painted alloy wheels, Sport badging, rear privacy glass. |
| RTL | FWD (AWD optional) | $33,780 | $16,000 – $18,500 | Adds leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, 10-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat, acoustic windshield. |
| RTL-T | FWD (AWD optional) | $35,945 | $17,000 – $19,500 | Adds 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation, auto-dimming rearview mirror. |
| RTL-E | AWD Standard | $41,370 | $19,000 – $21,500 | Adds Honda Sensing suite, truck-bed audio system, 540-watt premium audio, power moonroof, blind-spot monitoring, heated steering wheel. |
| Black Edition | AWD Standard | $42,870 | $20,000 – $22,500 | Adds exclusive Crystal Black Pearl paint, black chrome exterior accents, 18-inch black alloy wheels, red ambient interior lighting, black leather with red contrast stitching. |
Note: Adding AWD to RT through RTL-T trims originally added roughly $1,800 to $1,900 to the MSRP. In the used market, AWD variants typically command a $1,000 to $1,800 price premium over equivalent FWD models.
Comprehensive Breakdown of 2017 Honda Ridgeline Trim Levels
Understanding how equipment levels differ across the seven trims is crucial when assessing whether a listed price reflects fair market value.
- RT / RTS / Sport
- Work & Utility
- Basic Convenience
- Standard FWD
- RTL / RTL-T
- Leather & Tech
- Touchscreen Audio
- FWD or Opt. AWD
- RTL-E / Black Edition
- Advanced Safety & AWD
- Truck-Bed Audio System
- Standard i-VTM4 AWD
RT, RTS, and Sport Trims: Practical Workhorses
The entry-level RT trim offers fundamental pickup functionality without unnecessary luxury embellishments. It features Honda's signature dual-action tailgate—which swings open sideways or drops down vertically—and a lockable 7.3-cubic-foot In-Bed Trunk equipped with a drain plug. Power comes from the standard 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Step up to the RTS, and comfort increases significantly with tri-zone automatic climate control, allowing the driver, front passenger, and rear seat occupants to set individual temperature preferences. Keyless access with smart entry and remote engine start also become standard.
The Sport trim shares most features with the RTS but introduces dark exterior styling elements, including black-painted alloy wheels, black bezel headlights, and black side mirrors. For buyers prioritizing utility over high-end interior tech, the Sport trim represents a cost-effective sweet spot on the secondary market.
RTL and RTL-T Trims: Mid-Tier Luxury and Connectivity
The RTL trim elevates the cabin environment by substituting cloth upholstery for leather-trimmed seats. It adds driver-seat memory settings, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a 4-way power front passenger seat, and heated front seats. An acoustic windshield reduces cabin noise levels on highway trips.
For modern digital integration, the RTL-T is a critical step up. It introduces an 8-inch high-resolution Display Audio touchscreen equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. It also features built-in Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation with 3D renderings and continuous traffic updates, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and an expanded 225-watt audio system.
RTL-E and Black Edition: Flagship Utility and Technology
The RTL-E serves as the primary high-end volume trim. It comes standard with Honda’s i-VTM4 All-Wheel Drive system and the complete Honda Sensing active safety driver-assist suite. Notable luxury and utility upgrades include:
- A 540-watt premium audio system featuring six exterior bed exciters that transform the composite bed floor into an outdoor speaker system.
- A 150-watt/400-watt trunk-mounted AC power outlet for running small appliances or tools.
- A heated steering wheel, power glass moonroof, and power sliding rear window.
- Blind Spot Information (BSI) system with Cross Traffic Monitor.
The Black Edition mirrors every mechanical and technical feature of the RTL-E but presents an aggressive aesthetic package. It features Crystal Black Pearl paint, blacked-out exterior trim, black 18-inch alloy wheels, a black headliner, red ambient LED footwell lighting, and black leather seats accented by perforated red contrast stitching.
Key Factors Influencing Used 2017 Honda Ridgeline Valuation
Not all pre-owned vehicles priced within the nominal $13,500 to $22,500 window are equal. Several specific mechanical and structural variables dictate where an individual truck falls within that spectrum.
1. Drivetrain Configuration: FWD vs. i-VTM4 AWD
Unlike traditional rear-wheel-drive body-on-frame pickups, the base 2017 Ridgeline relies on Front-Wheel Drive. While FWD provides adequate traction for normal commuting and mild weather, the optional Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) AWD system dramatically enhances capability.
- FWD Towing & Traction: Max towing capacity is capped at 3,500 lbs.
- AWD Towing & Traction: Max towing capacity increases to 5,000 lbs. The i-VTM4 system utilizes active torque vectoring across the rear axle to transfer up to 70% of engine torque to the rear wheels, dynamic distribution between left and right rear wheels as needed.
Trucks equipped with i-VTM4 AWD consistently hold a resale value advantage of $1,000 to $1,800 over equivalent FWD trims in regions that experience winter snowfall or heavy rain.
| Drivetrain Configuration | Max Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| i-VTM4 All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
2. Odometer Readings and the 100,000-Mile Service Milestone
The 3.5-liter J35Y6 V6 engine powering the 2017 Ridgeline utilizes a rubber timing belt rather than a timing chain. Honda’s recommended Maintenance Minder schedule specifies replacing the timing belt, water pump, hydraulic tensioner, and drive belts at approximately 100,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first.
- Unserviced High-Mileage Vehicles: If a 2017 Ridgeline has reached 100,000–110,000 miles and lacks documentation proving the timing belt service was completed, buyers should budget $1,000 to $1,500 for immediate preventative maintenance. This lack of service should be leveraged during price negotiations.
- Documented Service: Trucks carrying verified service records for the timing belt kit, spark plugs, and fluid flushes command top market rates.
3. Bed and Body Condition
The Ridgeline’s bed is constructed from a fiber-reinforced composite sheet-molding compound (SMC) material designed to resist scratches, dents, and rust without needing an aftermarket bedliner. However, buyers should carefully evaluate:
- Dual-Action Tailgate Operation: Ensure the tailgate latches correctly when dropped vertically and swings smoothly on its side hinges. Repairing broken latch mechanisms or bent support cables can be costly.
- In-Bed Trunk Seal and Drain: Inspect the rubber weather stripping around the lockable trunk under the bed floor. A damaged seal can allow water intrusion, damaging stored gear or causing electrical issues with rear-mounted sensors.
Technical Specifications and Performance Data
For potential buyers assessing value against practical performance needs, the underlying mechanical specifications of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline are summarized below:
- Engine: 3.5-Liter 24-Valve SOHC i-VTEC V6 with Direct Fuel Injection
- Horsepower: 280 hp @ 6,000 RPM
- Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 4,700 RPM
- Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (6AT)
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- FWD: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined
- AWD: 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined
- Payload Capacity: Ranges from 1,465 lbs to 1,584 lbs depending on trim level
- Suspension: Independent MacPherson strut front / Independent multi-link rear
- Braking System: 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (12.6-inch ventilated front / 13.0-inch solid rear)
Maintenance History and Known Issues Affecting Resale Value
While the 2017 Ridgeline earned top safety honors—including a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)—prospective buyers must inspect for specific technical bulletins and known model-year issues that can affect fair market pricing.
- Timing Belt / Water Pump: Check service history (~100k miles)
- Transmission Shift Quality: Test for torque converter judder
- Fuel Injector Operation: Check for P0300 misfire fault codes
- Tailgate Latches & Bed: Test dual-action hinge mechanisms
Transmission Torque Converter Judder
Some 2017 Ridgelines fitted with the 6-speed automatic transmission exhibit a mild vibration or "judder" during low-speed acceleration (typically between 20 mph and 45 mph). Honda issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) addressing this condition, which usually requires flushing the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) and updating the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software. In persistent cases, the torque converter may require replacement. Vehicles with smooth shifting and up-to-date transmission service records are worth a premium over those displaying drivability stutters.
Fuel Injector Misfires
Direct-injection fuel systems operated on low-grade fuel or inconsistent maintenance can suffer from carbon buildup or premature fuel injector failure, triggering check engine light codes (such as P0300 series misfire codes). Replacing a set of fuel injectors on the 3.5L V6 engine can cost between $800 and $1,400.
Recalls to Verify Before Buying
When checking a vehicle identification number (VIN) through the manufacturer or official safety databases, verify that all safety recalls have been resolved:
- Fuel Pump Recall: Certain 2017 models were recalled for low-pressure fuel pumps that could fail prematurely.
- Back-Up Camera Wiring Harness: A recall addressed potential harness fatigue in the tailgate area that could cause the rear camera image to fail or flicker.
- Fuel Tank Feed Pipe: Early production runs had a recall addressing potential fuel leaks near the tank connection.
2017 Honda Ridgeline vs. Rival Used Midsize Trucks
When deciding whether the price of a 2017 Ridgeline is justified, it helps to analyze how it compares to alternative midsize trucks from the same model year, such as the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier.
| Vehicle Model | Construction Type | Ride Quality & Cabin | Used Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Honda Ridgeline | Unibody (Independent Rear) | Exceptional; smooth sedan-like compliance | $13,500 – $22,500 |
| 2017 Toyota Tacoma | Body-on-Frame (Solid Rear Axle) | Firm, truck-like; off-road focused | $18,000 – $27,000 |
| 2017 Chevrolet Colorado | Body-on-Frame (Solid Rear Axle) | Moderate compliance; strong towing options | $12,500 – $20,000 |
| 2017 Nissan Frontier | Body-on-Frame (Solid Rear Axle) | Firm, dated ergonomics; basic work utility | $10,500 – $16,500 |
Toyota Tacoma Comparison
The 2017 Toyota Tacoma retains higher resale value overall, demanding a $3,000 to $5,000 price premium over a similarly equipped Ridgeline. However, the Tacoma offers a significantly bumpier ride on paved roads, less hip room in the rear seats, and inferior fuel economy. Buyers seeking a comfortable daily commuter with open-bed capability will find the Ridgeline delivers better value per dollar than the Tacoma.
Chevrolet Colorado Comparison
The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado trades closer in price to the Ridgeline. While the Colorado offers higher max towing limits (up to 7,000 lbs with its V6 or 7,700 lbs with its Duramax diesel engine), its base gasoline cabin materials and rear seat space fall short of the refinement found in the Ridgeline RTL-T or RTL-E trims.
Used Buyer’s Checklist & Negotiation Strategies
To secure a fair price on a 2017 Honda Ridgeline, follow this methodical inspection process before closing a transaction:
- Verify Drivetrain & Trim Identity: Ensure seller listings accurately match the vehicle. Sellers occasionally mislabel FWD models as AWD, or standard RTLs as tech-equipped RTL-Ts. Check for the "i-VTM4" emblem on the tailgate and the 8-inch touchscreen on the dashboard.
- Inspect the In-Bed Trunk: Open the trunk under the bed floor. Lift the spare tire to check for standing water or rust, which indicates a failed weather seal. Confirm the latch lock functions with the master key.
- Evaluate Suspension Bushings: Because the Ridgeline relies on an independent rear suspension rather than a live solid axle, inspect rear control arm bushings and struts for leaking oil or excessive play. Worn components cause irregular tire wear and uneven ride heights.
- Confirm Timing Belt Maintenance: If the odometer exceeds 100,000 miles, ask for receipts verifying timing belt and water pump service. If unsupported, request a $1,000 reduction on the asking price.
- Run a Diagnostic Scan: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for hidden diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to transmission slippage or cylinder misfires, even if the instrument cluster light is off.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original MSRP of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline when new?
The 2017 Honda Ridgeline had a starting MSRP of $29,475 for the base RT FWD model. Prices climbed through intermediate trims (RTS, Sport, RTL, RTL-T) up to $41,370 for the feature-packed RTL-E AWD and $42,870 for the top-tier Black Edition AWD.
How much should I pay for a used 2017 Honda Ridgeline today?
Expect to pay between $13,500 and $22,500 depending on condition, mileage, and trim. Base FWD models with over 100,000 miles typically trade near the lower end ($13,500–$16,000), while lower-mileage RTL-E or Black Edition AWD models sit at the top of the valuation scale ($19,000–$22,500).
Does the 2017 Honda Ridgeline have a timing belt or timing chain?
The 2017 Ridgeline features a 3.5-liter V6 engine equipped with a timing belt. Honda recommends replacing the timing belt, water pump, and drive belts at 100,000 miles or 7 years. When evaluating a used model near or above this mileage, confirm whether this maintenance has been completed.
How much can a 2017 Honda Ridgeline tow?
Towing capacity depends directly on the drivetrain. Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) models are rated to tow up to 3,500 lbs, whereas models equipped with Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) All-Wheel Drive can tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped with a class III hitch.
Which trim of the 2017 Ridgeline offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration comes standard starting on the RTL-T trim level and is also included on the higher RTL-E and Black Edition trims. Base RT, RTS, Sport, and standard RTL trims do not feature this smartphone connectivity natively.
Is the 2017 Honda Ridgeline reliable long term?
Overall, the 2017 Ridgeline scores well in long-term dependability, benefiting from Honda's proven 3.5L V6 engine design. However, buyers should check maintenance records for regular automatic transmission fluid flushes and confirm that outstanding safety recalls (such as the fuel pump and tailgate wiring harness recalls) have been serviced by an authorized dealership.
Final Recommendation
When shopping for a pre-owned 2017 Honda Ridgeline, the RTL-T trim provides the optimal balance of modern technology, leather-appointed comfort, and reasonable pricing on the secondary market. If you live in an area prone to severe weather or plan to tow boats and campers approaching 5,000 lbs, prioritize the RTL-E trim to gain standard i-VTM4 All-Wheel Drive alongside the comprehensive Honda Sensing driver-assist suite. Always obtain a vehicle history report and verify that the 100,000-mile timing belt service has been performed before finalizing your purchase.
