2017 HONDA RIDGELINE towing

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
This Owner’s Guide is intended to help you quickly get acquainted with your 2017
Honda Ridgeline. It provides basic information and instructions on technology and
convenience features, as well as emergency procedures and how to get ass\
istance.
This guide is for vehicles sold in the United States and Canada. It cove\
rs all models, so you may find descriptions of features and equipment that are not in yo\
ur vehicle. Images throughout this guide are from U.S. vehicles and represent features and \
equipment that
are available on some, but not all, models.
This guide is not intended to be a substitute for the Owner’s Manual. The Owner Information CD enclosed in your glove box kit includes the Owner’s Manual, Navigation Manual, and vehicle and tire warranties in electronic format. This infor\
mation can be
viewed on a computer (PC or Mac platform) and saved or printed for you\
r reference.
You can also visit owners.honda.com (U.S.) or myhonda.ca (Canada) to view the complete and most current information.
If you are the first registered owner of your vehicle, you may request\
a complimentary printed copy of the Owner’s Manual, Navigation Manual, or Vehicle Warranty within the first six months of vehicle purchase. To request a copy, visit owners.honda.com and
create or log in to your account. In Canada, please request a copy from \
your Honda dealer.
American Honda Motor Company strives to be proactive in protecting our e\
nvironment and natural resources. By using electronic delivery for a considerable p\
ortion of the information typically found in a vehicle Owner’s Manual, we are further reducing our
impact on the environment.
Honda Automobile Customer Service
Your authorized Honda dealer should be able to answer any questions you h\
ave about your vehicle. However, if you are dissatisfi ed with the information you receive, you can
call Honda Automobile Customer Service (see page 157).
Call (800) 999-1009 (U.S.) or (888) 946-6329 (Canada)
Honda Roadside Assistance
24-hour emergency road service is available to you in the United States \
and Canada throughout your 3-year/36,000-mile warranty term. Services include jump starting,
flat tire and lockout assistance, towing, and more (limitations apply\
).
Call (866) 864-5211 (U.S.) or (800) 465-7587 (Canada)
VISUAL INDEX .............................................................. 1
Steering Wheel and Nearby Controls ................... 1
Dashboard and Nearby Controls ............................ 3
PHONE PAIRING QUICK START
................................. 4
HANDS-FREE PHONE QUICK START
........................ 5
VOICE RECOGNITION QUICK START
........................ 6
SAFETY INFORMATION
.............................................. 7
Important Safety Information .................................. 7
Seat Belts ................................................................... 9
Airbags ...................................................................... 12
Child Safety .............................................................. 18
Safety Label Locations ........................................... 25
Reporting Safety Defects....................................... 25
INSTRUMENT PANEL
................................................ 26
Malfunction Indicators .......................................... 26
Condition Indicators ............................................... 28
On/Off Indicators ..................................................... 29
Multi-Information Display (MID).......................... 30
VEHICLE CONTROLS
.................................................. 31
Using the Remote Transmitter .............................. 31
Smart Entry System ................................................. 32
Tailgate and Trunk Operation ............................... 33
In-Bed Conveniences ............................................. 34
Door Operation ........................................................ 35
Power Window Operation .................................... 36
Power Moonroof Operation* ................................ 37
Interior and Exterior Lights ................................... 38
One-Touch Turn Signal .......................................... 39
Auto High Beam System* ...................................... 40
Wiper Operation ...................................................... 41
Adjusting the Seats ................................................ 43
Rear Seats ................................................................ 46
Driving Position Memory System* ...................... 47
Adjusting the Steering Wheel .............................. 47
Adjusting the Mirrors ............................................. 48
Homelink® Garage Opener* .................................. 49
Air Conditioning System* ..................................... 50
Climate Control System* ...................................... 51
Seat Heaters* .......................................................... 53
Customized Features .............................................. 54
Setting the Clock. .................................................... 55AUDIO AND CONNECTIVITY
....................................
56
Color Audio System ................................................ 60
FM/AM Radio ........................................................ 61
iPod® ...................................................................... 62
USB Flash Drive .................................................... 63
Bluetooth® Audio .................................................. 64
Touchscreen Operation ......................................... 65
HondaLink® ........................................................... 67
Wi-Fi Connection .................................................. 68
Apple CarPlay® ........................................................................\
....................... 69
Android Auto™ .....................................................70
FM/AM Radio ....................................................... 72
SiriusXM® Radio* ................................................. 73
Compact Disc (CD)* ............................................ 74
iPod® ...................................................................... 75
USB Flash Drive .................................................... 76
Bluetooth® Audio ................................................. 77
Pandora®* ............................................................. 78
Truck Bed Audio System* ................................... 79
BLUETOOTH
® HANDSFREELINK® (HFL) ................. 80
Color Audio System ................................................ 80
Basic HFL Operation ............................................ 80
Pairing a Phone .................................................... 81
Making a Call ........................................................ 82
Touchscreen ............................................................ 83
Basic HFL Operation ............................................ 83
Pairing a Phone .................................................... 85
Making a Call ........................................................ 86
HondaLink Assist .................................................. 87
SMS Text Messaging and E-Mail* .................... 88
Siri™ Eyes Free ...................................................... 89
NAVIGATION*
............................................................. 90
Entering a Destination ........................................... 92
Routing ...................................................................... 95
*if equipped

| 1
V
ISUAL INDEX
uDoor mirror controls p. 48
vECON button p. 110
wLights p. 38
Turn signals p. 39
LaneWatch button* p. 114
xInstrument panel p. 26
Multi-information display (MID) p. 30
yBrightness control p. 38
zWipers/washers p. 41
u v w x
y z
VISUAL INDEX
Quickly locate items in the vehicle’s interior.
Steering Wheel and Nearby Controls
DRIVING....................................................................... 97
Before Driving ......................................................... 97
Maximum Load Limit .............................................. 99
Towing a Trailer .................................................... 101
Remote Engine Start* ........................................... 105
Starting to Drive .................................................... 106
Shifting .................................................................... 107
Braking ................................................................... 108
Intelligent Traction Management System ........ 109
Eco Assist System ................................................. 110
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) .......................... 110
Cruise Control* ...................................................... 111
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)* ......................... 112
LaneWatch™* ......................................................... 114
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)* ............... 115
Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)* ................... 116Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)* 117
Parking Sensor System* ...................................... 118
Blind Spot Information (BSI)* ............................. 119
Cross Traffic Monitor* .......................................... 120
Multi-View Rear Camera..................................... 121
Refueling
................................................................ 122
HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
.............................. 125
Smart Entry Remote Battery Strength ............... 125
Shift Lever Does Not Move ................................. 125
Jump Starting ........................................................ 126
Overheating ............................................................ 127
Emergency Engine Stop ....................................... 128
Emergency Towing ............................................... 128
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)........ 129
Changing a Flat Tire

.............................................. 131
Fuse Locations
....................................................... 134MAINTENANCE
........................................................
137
Safety Precautions ............................................... 137
Maintenance Minder™ ........................................ 138
Under the Hood ...................................................... 140
Engine Oil ............................................................... 142
Engine Coolant ...................................................... 144
Checking the Battery ............................................ 145
Window Washer Fluid ......................................... 145
Brake Fluid ............................................................. 145
Changing Wiper Blades ....................................... 146
Tire Information ..................................................... 147
Tire Labeling .......................................................... 150
DOT Tire Quality Grading..................................... 151
T

esting of Readiness Codes
................................ 153
SPECIFICATIONS...................................................... 154 CUSTOMER INFORMA

TION
................................... 156
Frequently Asked Questions/Troubleshooting 156
Contact Us .............................................................. 157
Honda Roadside Assistance ............................... 158
Warranty Coverages ............................................. 158
EPA Contact Information...................................... 158
VOICE COMMAND INDEX
...................................... 159
INDEX
........................................................................\
. 161
*if equipped

DRIVING
100 || 101
D
RIVING
This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and acc\
essories,
and the tongue load if you are towing a trailer. Below are the steps for
determining the correct load limit:
1.
Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo shou\
ld
never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.
2.
Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be \
riding in your vehicle.
3.
Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or\

XXX lbs.
4.
The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage \
load
capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1,400 lbs. and there wil\
l
be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available ca\
rgo and
luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1,400 - 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs.)\
5.
Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the
vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and lugga\
ge
load capacity calculated in step 4.
6.
If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be
transferred to your vehicle. Consult the Owner’s Manual on the Owner
Information CD or at owners.honda.com (U.S.) or

myhonda.ca (Canada) to
determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity\

of your vehicle.
7.
In addition, the total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, accessories\
,
cargo, and trailer tongue load must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Both are on a label
on the driver’

s doorjamb.
Example1 Max Load
Load Limits Example
1,323 lbs (600 kg ) Cargo
Weight
Passenger Weight
150 lbs x 2 = 300 lbs (68 kg x 2 = 136 kg) 1,023 lbs
(464 kg)
Example2 Max Load 1,323 lbs (600 kg ) Cargo Weight
573 lbs
(260 kg )
Passenger Weight
150 lbs x 5 = 750 lbs
(68 kg x 5 = 340 kg )
Towing a Trailer
Your vehicle can tow a trailer if you carefully observe the load limits, \
use the proper
equipment, and follow the towing guidelines. See the Owner’s Manual on the Owner
Information CD or at owners.honda.com (U.S.) or www.myhonda.ca (Canada) for more
information.
n
Towing Load Limits
Total trailer weight
Do not exceed the maximum allowable weight of
the trailer, cargo, and everything in or on it shown in
the table below. T

owing loads in excess of this can
seriously affect vehicle handling and performance and
can damage the engine and drivetrain.
Total load
Tongue load
Number of
occupant s2WD modelsAWD models
2
4
5
5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
4,750 lbs (2,154 kg)
4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg)
3,250 lbs (1,474 kg
)
3,000 lbs (1,360 kg)
• Each weight limit is calculated based on the following conditions:
•
Occupants fill seats from the front of the vehicle to the back.
•
Each occupant weighs 150 lbs (68 kg).
•
Each occupant has 15 lbs (7 kg) of cargo in the cargo area.
Any additional weight, cargo, or accessories reduce the maximum trailer \
weight and
maximum tongue load.

DRIVING
104 || 105
D
RIVING
Pre-tow checklist
When preparing to tow, and before driving away, ensure the following:
•
The vehicle has been properly serviced, and the suspension and the cooli\
ng
system are in good operating condition.
•
Avoid towing a trailer during your vehicle’s first 600 miles (1,000 km).
•
The trailer has been properly serviced and is in good condition.
•
All weights and loads are within limits. Never exceed the gross weight r\
atings.
•
Check if all loads are within limits at a public scale. If a public scal\
e is not
available, add the estimated weight of your cargo load to the weight of \
your
trailer (as quoted by the manufacturer) and the tongue load.
•
The hitch, safety chains, and any other attachments are secure.
•
All items in or on the trailer are properly secured and cannot shift whi\
le you drive.
Exceeding any load limit or improperly loading your vehicle and trailer \
can
cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting \

to drive.
WARNING
Remote Engine Start*
Start your vehicle’s engine using the remote transmitter before you enter the vehicle.
Lock button
Engine button
Make sure the vehicle is in a safe location when using remote engine start (i.e., a well
ventilated area, away from any flammable materials).
n
Starting the Engine
Press the Lock button, then press and hold the Engine button within 5 se\
conds to
remotely start the engine.
The engine runs for up to 10 minutes. To extend the run time for another 10 minutes,
repeat the procedure during the initial 10 minutes.
While the engine is running, the climate control system adjusts the cabi\
n
temperature, the security system remains on, and lights and accessories remain off.
n
Stopping the Engine
Press and hold the Engine button.
The engine will also stop if it has been running for more than 10 minute\
s, or if any door is opened without using the remote or smart entry.
Engine exhaust contains toxic carbon monoxide gas.
Breathing carbon monoxide can kill you or cause unconsciousness.
Never use the remote engine starter when the vehicle is parked in a
garage or other area with limited ventilation.
WARNING
*if equipped

DRIVING
106 || 107
D
RIVING
Starting to Drive
Turn on the vehicle and start the engine to begin driving.
n
Before Starting the Engine
Check that the transmission is in Park (P), then press
the brake pedal. Keep your foot firmly on the brake
pedal when starting the engine. Release the parking
brake, if necessary (see page 108).
Brake Pedal
The engine is harder to start in cold weather and in thinner air found a\
t altitudes
above 8,000 feet (2,400 m). When starting the engine in cold weather, turn off all
electrical accessories such as the lights, climate control system, and r\
ear defogger
in order to reduce battery drain.
n
Changing the Power Mode
Use the ENGINE START/STOP button to cycle through power modes or start
the engine.
Accessory or On mode: Press the ENGINE START/
STOP button once without pressing the brake pedal for
Accessory mode. Press it again for On mode.
Starting the engine:

Press and hold the brake pedal,
then press the ENGINE START/STOP button. Keep your
foot firmly on the brake pedal when starting the engine.
Turning the vehicle off: Shift to Park (P), then press the
ENGINE START/STOP button.
Shifting
Change the shift position based on your driving needs.
n
Shift Lever
Park (P): Used for parking or starting/stopping the
engine. Press the brake pedal, then press the release
button to shift.
Reverse (R): Used for reversing.
Neutral (N): Used for idling.
Drive (D): Used for normal driving.
Low (L):

Used for stronger engine power and braking
when driving in hilly terrain.
D4: Press the D4 button when the shift lever is in Drive.
Used for going up or down hills or towing a trailer in
hilly terrain.
Release button
D4 button
When you change the shift lever from Drive (D) to Reverse (R) and vi\
ce versa, come
to a complete stop and keep the brake pedal pressed. Operating the shift\
lever
before the vehicle has come to a complete stop or while pressing the acc\
elerator
pedal can damage the transmission.
NOTICE

DRIVING
114 || 115
D
RIVING
*if equipped
LaneWatch™*
Check the passenger-side rear areas in the display when the right turn signal is
activated.
LaneWatch display
n Activating LaneWatch
Activate the right turn signal. The LaneWatch display
appears. Check the display for blind spots, and visually
confirm that it is safe to change lanes.
You can also press the LaneWatch button on the end
of the turn signal switch to view a constant real-time
display
. Press it again to turn the display off.
n Changing Settings
Customize the display and how and when the display
appears.1.
From the Home screen, select Settings.
2.
Select Camera.
3.
Select LaneWatch.
4.
Select an option and make the preferred changes.
5.
Press BACK to exit the menu.
Failure to visually confirm that it is safe to change lanes before doi\
ng so
may result in a crash and serious injury or death.
Do not rely only on LaneWatch while driving. Always look in your mirrors,
to either side of your vehicle, and behind you for other vehicles before\

changing lanes.
WARNING
Important Safety Reminder
Like all assistance systems, LaneWatch has limitations. Over-reliance on the system
may result in a collision.
*if equipped
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)*
Provides steering input to help keep the vehicle in the middle of a dete\
cted lane and
visual and tactile alerts if the vehicle is detected drifting out of its\
lane while driving
between 45–90 mph (72–145 km/h).
If your vehicle is getting too close to detected left or right
side lane markings without a turn signal activated, the
system provides visual and tactile alerts.
A Lane Departure message appears on the MID, and the
steering wheel vibrates. Steering torque is also applied
to help keep your vehicle within your driving lane. Take
appropriate action to stay within your driving lane.
Steering assistance
n Turning the System On or Off 1.
Press the MAIN button. LKAS appears in the MID.
2. Press the LKAS button. Lane outlines appear in the
MID. Dotted lane lines turn solid when the system
operates.
3.
Press the MAIN button or the LKAS button to turn
the system off.
Important Safety Reminder
LKAS is for your convenience only. It is not a substitute for your vehicle control.
The system does not work if you take your hands off the steering wheel or fail to steer
the vehicle.
Do not place an object on the top of the instrument panel. It may refl\
ect onto the
windshield and prevent the system from detecting lane lines properly.
Do not use when towing.

HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
128 || 129
H
ANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
Emergency Engine Stop
The ENGINE START/STOP button may be used to stop the engine due to an emergency
situation even while driving. If you must stop the engine, choose one of\
the following
operations:
•
Press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button
for two seconds, or
•
Firmly press the ENGINE START/STOP button
three times.
If the vehicle is in Park (P), the power mode changes to VEHICLE OFF. Otherwise, the
power mode changes to ACCESSORY.
The steering wheel will not lock. Because turning off the engine also di\
sables the
power assist the engine provides to the steering and braking systems, it\
will require
significantly more physical effort and time to steer and slow the vehi\
cle. Use both feet
on the brake pedal, if necessary, to slow the vehicle and stop immediately in
a safe place.
Do not press the button while driving unless it is absolutely necessary \
for the engine to
be switched off.
Emergency Towing
Call a professional towing service if you need to tow your vehicle.
All models
Flat bed equipment: The operator loads your vehicle on the back of a tru\
ck.
This is the best way to transport your vehicle.
2WD models
Wheel lift equipment: The tow truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the front tires
and lift them off the ground. The rear tires remain on the ground.
This is an acceptable way to tow your vehicle.
Trying to lift or tow your vehicle by the bumpers will cause serious dama\
ge.
The bumpers are not designed to support the vehicle’s weight.
Improper towing such as towing behind a motorhome or other motor vehicle\
can
damage the transmission.
NOTICE
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Monitors the tire pressure while you are driving.
If your vehicle’s tire pressure becomes significantly low,
the low tire pressure indicator comes on and a message
appears on the multi-information display. The specific tire
with low pressure is displayed.
n What to Do
Stop your vehicle in a safe place. Check the tire pressure and adjust th\
e pressure to
the specified level. The specified tire pressure is on a label on th\
e driver’s doorjamb.
n
Tire Fill Assist
Your vehicle gives you visual and audible alerts to help you adjust the t\
ire pressure to its appropriate level when the vehicle is on.
While inflating: The system beeps and the exterior lights flash once every 5 seconds.
When the correct pressure is reached:

The system beeps and the exterior lights
flash continuously for 5 seconds. Stop filling the tire.
If you overinflate: The system beeps and the exterior lights flash twice every
3 seconds.
Driving on an extremely underinflated tire can cause it to overheat. A\
n overheated
tire can fail. Always inflate your tires to the specified pressure.
NOTICE

HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
132 || 133
H
ANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
n Setting Up the Jack
1.
Place the jack under the jacking point closest to
the tire to be changed.
2. Turn the end bracket clockwise (as shown in the
image) until the top of the jack contacts the jacking
point. Make sure that the jacking point tab is
resting in the jack notch.
3. Raise the vehicle, using the jack handle bar and the
jack handle, until the tire is off the ground.
Jack handle bar
Wheel nut wrench as jack handle
The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone
underneath.
Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the
vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.
WARNING
Do not use the jack if it doesn’t work properly. Call your dealer or a professional
towing service.
NOTICE
The following instructions must be followed to use the jack safely: •
Do not use the jack with people or luggage in the vehicle.
•
Use the jack provided in your vehicle. Other jacks may not support the w\
eight (load) or fit the jacking point.
•
Do not use while the engine is running.
•
Use only where the ground is firm and level.
•
Use only at the jacking points.
•
Do not get in the vehicle while using the jack.
•
Do not put anything on top of or underneath the jack. n
Replacing the Flat Tire
1.
Remove the wheel nuts and flat tire.
2.
Mount the compact spare tire. Replace the wheel
nuts, and lightly tighten them.
3.
Lower the vehicle and remove the jack. Tighten the
wheel nuts in the order indicated in the image. Go
around, tightening the nuts, two to three times in
this order. Do not overtighten the wheel nuts.
If you drive with the spare tire installed, the low tire
pressure/TPMS indicator appears. The indicator
stays on until a regular tire is installed.
n Storing the Flat Tire
1.
Remove the cap using a cloth-wrapped, flat-tipped
screwdriver.Cap
2. Place the spacer cone on the flat tire’s wheel
center, then mount the wheel using the wing bolt.
3.
Store the jack in the tire tray using the strap. Close
the tire tray and tighten the holding bolts.
4.
Store the center cap and tool kit in the in-bed trunkWing BoltSpacer Cone
Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and can seriously i\
njure
the occupants.
Store the wheel, jack, and tools securely before driving.
WARNING