Short answer: a standard 12-volt maintenance-free lead-acid battery. It is not a hybrid or electric-vehicle battery.
Beyond that, the Ridgeline’s electrical system relies on a conventional 12V battery to start the engine and run the vehicle’s 12V accessories. The exact group size, cold-cranking amps (CCA), and reserve capacity can vary by market and trim, so always verify the battery label or the owner's manual for your VIN when replacing.
Battery type and what it means
Key facts about the 2017 Ridgeline’s battery help guide replacement. The vehicle uses a sealed, maintenance-free 12-volt lead-acid battery that provides starting power and runs 12V systems when the engine is off. There is no high-voltage hybrid battery in this model year.
- Battery type: 12-volt lead-acid, maintenance-free (sealed) battery.
- Primary function: provides starting power and powers the vehicle’s 12V electrical systems when the engine is off or idling.
- Non-hybrid drivetrain: does not involve a high-voltage hybrid battery; no plug-in charging components beyond standard alternator charging.
- OEM considerations: use a battery that fits under the hood with the correct terminal orientation and mounting points as specified by Honda.
To sum up, the OEM battery is a sealed 12V lead-acid unit. When replacing, choose a maintenance-free 12V battery that matches the vehicle’s fitment, mounting, and terminal layout.
Finding the right replacement for your Ridgeline
When selecting a replacement, confirm the exact group size and electrical specs from the battery label or the owner's manual for your VIN. This ensures the new battery fits properly and delivers the correct starting performance for your climate and usage patterns.
- Park on a level surface, apply the parking brake, and turn off the ignition with the engine cool.
- Disconnect the negative (-) terminal first, then the positive (+) terminal.
- Remove the battery hold-down bracket or clamp and lift the battery out of the tray.
- Clean the battery tray and terminal clamps; inspect for corrosion and apply protectant if needed.
- Place the new battery in the tray, secure the hold-down, and reconnect the terminals in the reverse order: positive (+) first, then negative (-).
- Start the engine to verify proper operation and reset any electronics (radio codes, clock) if prompted.
- Dispose of the old battery at an appropriate recycling facility or auto parts store that offers battery recycling.
Note: If you’re uncertain about the process, or if the vehicle shows warning indicators related to the battery or charging system, consult a Honda dealer or qualified technician. Some modern vehicles require a reset of certain electronic systems after a battery replacement.
Maintenance tips to extend battery life
Following best practices can help maximize the life of your Ridgeline’s 12V battery and avoid premature failures.
- Keep terminals clean and tight; remove corrosion with a baking-soda-and-water solution if needed, then protect with a terminal cleaner.
- Avoid short trips that don’t allow the alternator to fully recharge the battery; combine trips when possible or use a battery maintainer during extended idle periods.
- Check the alternator’s charging performance if you notice dim lights or slow starting; a failing alternator can shorten battery life.
- Replace the battery every 3–5 years as a proactive measure, or earlier in extreme weather conditions (very hot or very cold climates).
Regular inspection and using a dealer-recommended replacement will help ensure compatibility with the Ridgeline’s electrical system and any vehicle-specific electronics.
Summary
The 2017 Honda Ridgeline uses a conventional 12-volt maintenance-free lead-acid battery with no hybrid or high-voltage components involved. When replacing, confirm the exact group size, CCA, and RC from the battery label or the owner’s manual, and ensure the new battery fits the engine bay and terminal layout. For best results, consider OEM-recommended or OEM-equivalent batteries and follow proper safety procedures during replacement.