Used 2009 Honda Ridgeline Consumer Reviews
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So Far So Good at 128,000 miles
I bought my 2009 new and have no complaints at 128,000 miles I have completed required services and no big issues have arisen except replacing a simple pressure sensor on the transmission and airbag recall which was taken care of at the dealer.. I think this truck is perfect for a family of 5 who needs a vehicle that will pull a boat or travel trailer under 5000 pounds, carry those itmes that don't require a large powerful and expensive truck. This truck rides like a car and is comfortable. If you have a small family, this truck will fill your needs and I strongly recommend you check it out. At this mileage I have noticed a slight decrease in gas mileage on the highway with cruise control. I have seen 24mpg in earlier times but now see 22-23 max. I still haven't replaced the brake pads yet as they still show within spec. Tires have been replaced at 70,000 miles with Michelin LTX. If you don't intend to do any off road 'Truck Stuff' I would recommend properly rated touring tires for a quieter ride. There has been no issues with the engine or transmission. The trunk space below the deck is perfect. We can shop for groceries and place them in the trunk and lock and not worry about someone helping themselves as we leave the vehicle elsewhere. Overall this truck has been a perfect family utility carrier, comfortable and reasonably economic. I would recommend the Ridgeline for those families needing utility.
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Why stop?
Word is that Honda will no longer build the Ridgeline. Too bad. Yes, it is different, but who else has the in bed trunk? I carry enough tools to fill it and I can keep a clean truck without loading and unloading daily. The ride is great and it pulls my boat with ease. I hope someone takes this concept and continues. If you really need a truck, buy one. BUT, if you just need a truck once in a while, the Ridgeline is great. I'm on my 3d one, so I was sold by the versatility and pleasant drive.
- RT Crew CabMSRP: $9,445121 mi away
- RTS Crew CabMSRP: $12,995142 mi away
- RTL Crew CabMSRP: $8,995168 mi away
It's a Keeper
Has all the things in need in a pickup, all I read is that they have no power etc. BS. I traded in a 02 Silverado 5.3 V-8 and can honestly no tell much difference at all. But the gas mileage is much better. Don't listen to Non-Owners they're full of it. Only listen or talk to owners for there input.
Better value for your dollar!
I bought my 09 RT used from a very reputable dealer one year ago with 80 k miles. 20k miles later and no major issues. Every time I take it in for service my mechanic is amazed to see how clean it is inside where oil cap screws in. I use Mobil 1 full synthetic oil with proper oil filter. Engine runs strong and gets up to 23 mpg on the highway with a light load and not towing anything. I have not towed anything yet. Great handling on dirt roads and muddy roads and there was not a need to use 4wd feature. Acceleration and shifting is good. Climate control is good. Height and visibility is good. Stereo system sound is ok. Plenty of storage, which is really awesome. Interior fabric stains too easy from water. Love the sliding rear window. Love the extra storage in the cab and in truck bed, which beats the storage of a Toyota. There is ample passenger space. Love the way the rear seats fold up to load extra cargo. Transmission has a little clunk, but it's normal. It's from how I operate the accelerator pedal as trans picks up the slop. I can get about 380 miles per tank of gas. Full synthetic oil change every 5,000 miles and I service the fuel system with one can of sea foam at every oil change interval. Once a month I fill the gas tank with non ethanol gas. I'll be due for 4 wheel brake service soon and 4 new tires. I compared this truck to a certified Toyota Tacoma. Toyota has a nice reputation, but I got a better deal on this truck and it's got everything that I need at a fraction of the cost. Paint chips to easily, but that's where touch up paint comes in handy. Suspension, steering, brakes and any of the power options work great. No report on the 4wd yet, because I have not used it. Cruise control works great and the TPMS is accurate. I like the 5 ft bed. It's not to big and not to small. This is a very practical truck for the working man and I chose a 285.00 a month payment vs a 400.00 a month payment of the Toyota Tacoma certified(2 door single cab 4 cyl 2009). I'll expect 400k miles on this Honda motor. Once the motor is tired then I'll replace it, because this truck serves a better purpose for me than any other general truck. It's like a small military truck.lol. People keep trying to buy my truck and I tell them no. The only thing that concerns me is the air bag recall. The part won't be available until later in the year.
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Nissan Owner NO MORE
I have always owned Nissan vehicles for performance and rugged reliability. My Ridgeline was a 2009 leftover so it was worth looking at for the price. Simply put, the most fundamental, practical, and comfortable vehicle ever made.
The El Camino of trucks
If you're looking for a reliable truck with a car like ride then the Ridgeline is a good option. The 5ft bed is adequate for weekend warrior projects and the hidden trunk storage is a plus. Exterior styling and body integrity are ok, interior styling and comfort are good. I notice significant wind/road noise, the audio system is not great, braking is just ok.
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Good Choice
We were looking for a versatile vehicle, the Ridgeline RTS fits the bill perfectly. We didn't need a work horse like a Ford 150 or GMC mule. I don't need to run off road over rocks and through rivers. The Ridgeline is very comfortable, quiet and the styling does turn heads. Getting 17 in the city and have seen 22.8 on the highway. Use cruise control for best mileage. I enjoy having a good handling vehicle for hauling those lighter loads and towing my 20' boat If you are a not in need of a big truck and want reasonable utility, this is your vehicle. Take it from me, you won't be sorry.
A Great Vehicle
My wife has an 2007 RTS and complained that I was always taking her Ridgeline whenever I left the house. Told me to get my own, so I did. I couldn't be more pleased. Love driving the Ridgeline. Getting much better mileage than advertised. My first trip got 22.2 mpg and several tanks later, the worst I have gotten is 19.6 mpg. Love all the storage compartments.My Ridgeline handles like a car. I have driven all the trucks and this is by far my favorite.
Best for our family
If you are interested in an excellent choice for a family utility truck, the Honda Ridgeline RTS would be your choice. I traded in a 2008 Civic because my commuting days were over. I am extremely impressed with the quality, ride virtually no road noise and excellent workmanship of this vehicle. Although I don't drive aggressively, gas mileage on the road for me has been seen at 22.8 mpg using the cruise control on the Interstate. City has shown 17-18 mpg. Hauling utility and trailering is excellent with ample power. I really appreciate the under deck storage trunk and rear seat foldups to allow for ample carrying capacity. If your looking for the ultimate family vehicle, this is it.
Good Specs, no creature comfort
I've owned this truck for approx. 4 years, 60k miles. Like the size, engine is decent (engine started to feel better at around 50k miles), tows fine (i'm towing just under the 5k lb. limit but not long distances). Here's my main beef..the wind noise is ungodly! Would buy again in an instant if quieter inside. Honda, would it kill you to drop in $150 of sound insulation? Keep the fluids fresh as it affects gas mileage greatly (3-4 mpg). If this were quieter it's a 5 out of 5, but don't expect it to replace a full size truck, that's not a beef, just a reality. The Ridgeline was meant to fill a different niche which it does nicely, I just wish it did it with less interior noise.
3rd Ridgeline in three years
Third Ridgeline to date. Very reliable, dependable. Complaints: Add more seat travel or legroom for the driver! I am 5'10", another 2 - 3 inches of seat travel would make a WORLD of difference in comfort on long drives. I seldom have any passengers in the rear seat, for the one or two times yearly this occurs, I could move the driver seat up a bit. And speed up the wipers on the "high" setting. Otherwise, very comfortable truck. Adequate power on highways, full time four wheel drive great in snow/ice conditions.
my klunker trade
Have had many Honda / Acura's this is typical high quality, surprisingly large inside, 5 foot bed is all I need, in bed trunk is amazing, great feature, it replaced an old Silverado so not quite the towing capacity, but don't need that now. GREAT in SNOW, seamless transition to 4WD, great traction with stock tires, only my 2006 Acura RL has better traction on snow and ice. Could get better gas mileage, probably will increase with age is my Honda experience.
Dirt Bike Friendly
Bought this truck to carry two Honda dirt bikes in the back and to tow a tent trailer all at the same time. I love this truck and it does everything I need a truck to do and more. Plus it is a Honda with outstanding quality, fantastic ride, and great gas mileage for a bigger truck. I test drove all the new trucks before buying and the Honda Ridgeline was by far the best truck for my lifestyle. I live in snow country and the AWD system works great. Honda's design for utility and storage is excellent.
2009 Honda Ridgeline
Not real quick but will tow well and is build like a brick **** house. A 17 year old plowed in the back end of my truck and you could barely tell. Her car had to be towed.
Awsome!
Currently have 8500 miles on it. Just got back from 2000+ mile trip -- Amarillo to Walsenburg, CO to San Luis Lake SP to Navajo SP to Durango to Albuquerque, NM to home. Towed 4400 lb (600 on hitch) travel trailer @ 55 mph (my choice -- was more comfortable driving 55 than faster -- I'm 67 yrs old!). Went over 3 passes (Raton: 7800ft, La Veta: 9400 ft, & Wolf Creek, 10,868 ft) -- 12.5 mpg while towing. Up passes at 55 mph until speed dropped, then reset cruise @ 40mph & stepped on throttle until transmission dropped into 2nd gear; walked the passes @ 3800rpm @ 40 mph in 2nd on cruise with no problems at all.
Ridgeline number two
My first was a 2008 bought in 2017. Unfortunately I totalled that unit in October , after a medical problem. 300 ft of bouncing off pine trees after leaving the road, then hitting the final tree that triggered the airbag and spun me into the field, in knee deep water. Airbag deployed and no injuries. Unconscious whole time. Liked it before the accident, newer model has some extra accessories but the safety aspect did factor in highly. With the 08 we towed a car (4400#) back from New Mexico and gas mileage was still at 15/16. The 09 has given better gas mileage overall but I still think they shift a bit high. Handling is fine, interior not as luxurious as a big F150 but very good. Interior design flexible with split seat and rear sliding window. Well built, no rattles. My mechanic says front axle just starting to throw some grease.
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It's ok
The mileage is Terrible for a V6 and it is really not very powerful of an engine. The paint is chipping off of mine fairly easily. Luckily I bought the paint plan. I am towing a camper and am already looking to a V8. I like the trunk and bed gate. Stereo is TERRIBLE. Does not even have IPOD jack. Overall it is ok but not thrilled. Every time I go for an oil change they find something to get the cost up to over $100.00 Our dealer outsources the paint dept. which I did not realize until after the purchase.
Just the right size
Since 1985 I've owned an F-150 and four Silverados. By far the Honda is better built and more versatile. I don't need to tow my house or haul cattle. I park it instead of docking it. It is agile, and rides as well as my wife's Acura. We drove it to Colorado from Houston with another couple and the ladies' only complaint about the back seat was the height of the seatbelt anchors.
Honda El Camino
I have had this Car/truck for about a year and a half, drove it of off the lot new. Nicely executed interior, excellent stereo and nav. Real size seats for a change in a Japanese vehicle. All wheel drive is great when the going gets slippery. The trunk rocks. Terrible gas mileage. I get 14 in the city maybe 16 on the highway. Dealer says this is normal. When I tow 2 atvs on a 12ft trailer, I have had as low as 8mpg on the highway. This thing hates to tow. If you are planning on regularly towing anything do not get this truck. For the occasional run to the home store you're probably good.
So versatile
I looked at the Tacoma, but didn't like the pricing (had to add a whole package just to get keyless entry, another package to get tow wiring, etc). The Ridgeline has it all, standard. I really like the trunk and the way the rear seats flip up for storage. There are many small intelligent things: the heater doesn't blow cold air on you (it waits until the car has warmed up before blowing any air), the driver's window has auto-down AND auto-up, you can lower all four windows with the key fob (great for airing out hot air), and the car gives you your real-time mpg as you drive. It's fun, well-designed, and with Honda reliability too.
Just buy it
I have owned my ridgeline for a week now. LOVE IT. I was looking at buying a Toyota fj cruiser. On the ridgeline the back windows go down. Though I cannot climb a mountain, The ridgeline gave me the comfort I was looking for with a lot of features I would not have with the fj cruiser. Same towing capacity the same mileage, with a lot more comfort and class.
Great truck for the money
This is an excellent truck for the money. Base level model has all the features you'd want. It drives like a large car with a comfortable ride yet has the utility of a truck. Truck capabilities more than adequate for light duty work (towing a boat, hauling yard stuff or pulling a smaller RV) yet space and driving manners perfect for a family. This is about as close as one can get to the perfect vehicle that does everything for everyone. I have only had it for about a week and put on about 500 miles yet I am delighted with it. I have owned F150s which are also excellent trucks but this is by far a better value for someone in need of a "pleasure truck" (F150 much better heavy duty work truck).
Listen to real owners not to trolls
First and foremost let me reiterate that I'm a real life Ridgeline owner. I came from a Ford F-150 and contrary to what others say, I have no reliability problems ever. I downgraded to a smaller house with a small garage and the Ford's size was just too much and it was an old workhorse. Enter the Ridgeline, and all I can say wow and wow, if this truck had a more peppy engine, it would be the BMW of pickups due to its almost telepathic handling. Truck is small on the outside, but humongous on the inside. The old Ridgeline was ugly and dorky, the new one is more visually appealing.
Awsome Truck
The truck is great. I'm not trying to bad mouth anyone, but I'm not too sure as to what another writer was stating in reference to the looks of the 09 versus to earlier models. The only changes are cosmetics, i.e. new grill, colors, and other minor changes. The truck is awesome. It has the same payload as the small F-150. Again not to knock Ford, but I don't need a truck that size. The Honda carries my sportbike. You will need a trailer or a bigger truck such as a Ford or Chevy to to carry a bigger bike due to the length not the weight. I live in a townhouse not on a ranch, and the Ridgline does everything I need. The truck drivers like a large Accord.
SUV to Truck
I have been a SUV owner for the last 12 years, wanted a truck but never wanted to give up the space of an SUV. This has been the perfect cross over to a truck. Fun to drive, solid vehicle. Would highly recommend. I get 17 MPG.
Second time's a charm!
Traded my 2006 Ridgeline RT for the 2009 RTL. This truck was so practical and reliable in the past 3.5 years I decided to do it all over again...this time with the leather, Navigation, XM radio and sunroof. The 2006 I traded in with 60K miles drove as good as the day I drove it home new. The 2009 feels a bit tighter and quieter but considering the 2006 was its 1st year production, Honda just kept improving it and it shows!
2009 Honda RT Ridgeline
I bought a Ridgeline 3 weeks ago. Have used it for hauling dirt bikes, firewood and took it deer hunting in the woods. This thing does it all for the everyday man. Not for the contractor worker. Runs great, peppy, hugs the road - no lean. First out I did trip displays, got 18.2 - 20.3 mpg. Not bad for 500 miles on it. Compares to mpg on my Chevy silverado. Roomy front and back seats and lots of storage. Love the trunk idea. Works great for locking the chain saw in and other valuables. A good all-around multi-use vehicle for the everyday dad/man.
Love my Ridgeline
We decided to trade in our old SUV and get a pickup. The only Truck I was really interested in was a Ridgeline. Good news is I have not been disappointed in the four months since our vehicle purchase. The Ridgeline definitely turns heads. It is a very stylish truck with nifty features. Driving is a pleasure as there is almost a car like feel when driven. Overall a big time winner!
Good Truck
This truck is a replacement for my 2007 Tundra. Not as big however it is fun to drive and great in the snow. MPG is 14 City and 18 Hgwy however I expect it to get better with more miles on it. After 3 bumpers, three radios, new tires, drive belt, and battery on Tundra, it was worth giving up all the compliments on the Tundra's appearance to get a quality truck.
Great Truck
I sold my 2006 Ridgeline RTL. Prior to purchasing the 09 Ridgeline I drove each competitors vehicle, and decided to purchase a 2009 Ridgeline RTL w/navigation. In the end, I couldn't part with the in-bed trunk, ride quality, general utility, and balance between car and truck offered by the Ridgeline. The Ridgeline's price was also less than comparably equipped 4x4 vehicles from other mfgs. The Ridgeline's 4x4 capability is more limited, but it satisfies my needs. So far, I love the truck (700 miles) and the gas mileage has been a respectable 18 mpg with most driving around town. My truck is Billet Silver, w/chrome step bars, silver roof rack, bug deflector, splash guards, and wheel locks.
Should have bought years ago!
Owned 5 fords & 1 chevy and finally decided to get out of the big truck mode. This was a huge decision and I am extremely please to say the right decision. What a great design, fun to drive and a pleasure to own. All this and I get to keep the extra dollars saved on gas. This is a solid built truck and does the job. Hard to believe the big three couldn't figure out how to put the trunk feature in the full size trucks or design seats that actually fold up and give real cargo space. Oh did I mention no rattles either. Don't but a truck without test driving the Ridgeline. Get over your manly belief that only a full size truck will do. You will be surprised & a lot happier you did. I did & I am!
Nice all around vehicle
Just completed a 3500 mile road trip with the wife and all the luggage that brings. Drove well on freeways and secondary roads, also did did well in the southwestern sun and downpours back east. Mileage was 19.4 for the trip and though it runs well at eighty the gas mileage really takes a hit. It is a tight vehicle with no rattles, vibrations or sqeaks. My general use other than road trips is around town and to the hardware store. Honda did well as this is one great truck.
Great Truck
I just got back from hunting. Bed was full and towing a pop-up camper from Denver to Craig and back. Avg 18 mpg and that included the driving on 4wd roads to and from the hunting area. Did everything I wanted it to do. On the highway from Denver to Winter Park and back I get 21 mpg and it is so nice to drive.
JUNK JUNK JUNK
Why I purchased this car I will never know. Look Honda has great compact, coupes and sedans.....but trucks???? They should leave it up to others. MPG is 10 at best. Interior is all plastic, cheap looking and rattles. Sun roof seal leaks in water if only glass is closed. Can't wait to get rid of this piece of junk. Only good thing is the stereo system w/ nav. Only 20 more months to go on lease. Then I'm running for a Tundra (real truck).
Overheating transmission
Transmission warning light comes on, the transmission is overheating, the oil has a burnt smell.
love my Ridgeline
I've had my Ridgeline now for over 3 months. I can't imagine a truck fitting my needs better. I love the looks, not just another pick-up. The in bed lock-able compartment is an answer to so many problems for pick-up owners Fun to drive, good mileage (19.5) mostly highway. I wish I knew what they were thinking when they put in that center glove box. ODD! Over all, I'd do it again in a second.
The car/truck
I would ignore the previous "hondahater" negative review; obviously he made a wrong decision to lease this vehicle. If this is the type of vehicle you are looking for (read; not huge trailer towing, 4x4ing,) then it is the right decision. I was looking at a Tacoma to replace my 15 year old Dakota, this Ridgeline is the ticket for me.
Know what you are buying...
This is a great truck. Just be smart about what you are buying. I am really happy with my Ridge. I wanted a truck that was reliable, comfortable, and had longevity designed in - not planned obsolescence. It is not a big Ford or Chevy - it is a medium sized truck more suitable for a person who values convenience, storage, and intelligence over outright brawn. I couldn't be happier as this vehicle fulfills all my needs for a truck - adequate towing, people mover, great ride, good at the lumber yard/garden center - in a 4 wheel drive long lasting Honda package. For most of us that want a truck, don't tow more than 5000 lbs, and don't live on a farm, this truck was designed with us in mind.
Honda convert from Dodge Dakota Quad 4x4
Aquired the 09 Ridgeline RTL to replace 02 Dodge Dakota Quad 4x4 with 110K. I really like the Ridgeline and enjoy driving it each day. Solid build, minimal windnoise, even on windy days. Love the trunk! The seating and build is is better than the Dakota. Added an A.R.E. Z-series Cap for ~$2000, fit is okay, but these are not meant to be easily taken off and put back on like most fiberglass caps/toppers. Need to consider if you hall large objects now and then.
Superb!
Currently have 8500 miles on it. Just got back from 2000+ mile trip -- Amarillo to Walsenburg, CO to San Luis Lake SP to Navajo SP to Durango to Albuquerque, NM to home. Towed 4400 lb (600 on hitch) travel trailer @ 55 mph (my choice -- was more comfortable driving 55 than faster -- I'm 67 yrs old!). Went over 3 passes (Raton: 7800 ft, La Veta: 9400 ft, & Wolf Creek, 10,868 ft) -- 12.5 mpg while towing. Up passes at 55 mph until speed dropped, then reset cruise @ 40 mph & stepped on throttle until transmission dropped into 2nd gear; walked the passes @ 3800rpm @ 40 mph in 2nd on cruise with no problems at all. Absolutely fantastic truck. Has done everything I've asked of it & more.
You will be happy with this truck.
OK, so the knock on the Ridgeline is that it is not really a pickup. Well guess what. It is to me. It trucks, it carries, it hauls, it tows, it stores, well, for what I expected of this very smooth riding truck, it met all. The only reason I'm selling my 2009 Ridgeline is to purchase a 2017 Ridgeline. Yes I have been happy and very pleased with this vehicle. Update: 2/1/2018. Well I never did trade in on a 2017, I was hoping for a locking tailgate. I have an aftermarket bed cover and a tailgate lock on the 09 and really like both. Regularly haul a trailer and ATV effortlessly. Besides, my 2009 only has 35000 mileage. Have had airbags recall completed, maintenance had to replace brake master cylinder, the only time on any vehicle I've ever owned that this has happened, and at 33000 miles replaced the tires, not because they were worn but because they were old. All else has been great. Wish it had memory seats too. Update: 2/1/2020. Yep, finally traded it in, on a 2020 RTL-E, for all the updates the 2020's have. The 2009 I traded was everything I expected when I purchased it and was happy with it; only trading it for the technology updates and the locking tailgate and heated steering wheel (I live in the great cold NE). I do not regret owning my 2009 Ridgeline ever.
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Still getting to know my Honda Ridgeline
Check out the history online, an carfacts , even tho its a good vehicles you still might get the dealership to come down on price, if there's light cosmetic damage , I wish I had noticed the outside truck better, missed to many small details...
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Clear
Excellent middle size truck with plenty of towing power for it size and very dependable
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12 years and still going strong!
We have had our truck for 12 and a 1/2 years now. Now at142000 miles. No complaintscas our truck is still running like a champ. Love our Ridgeline!
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Versatile and reliable
Go anywhere and do anything! It’s comfortable and spacious inside with lots of options for hauling stuff and storage. It drives well and smooth. It feels super solid all-around. It’s a Honda so low maintenance costs and well-built under the hood and inside. It’s perfect for weekend hauls, getaways, moving furniture, going to Lowe’s, etc. 4WD, good amount of power, well-thought out interior, trailer hitch capable, and, again, its a Honda.. couldn’t be happier
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177,000 MILES AND GOING STRONG
Fantastic family vehicle. Extended bed allows transport of construction materials, soil and tools. Under bed allows for groceries luggage and waterproof items. This truck/SUV is loaded with options that are driver and passenger friendly. Has one of the quietest and most comfortable rides of any truck. Even though it is a 2009 it is still ahead in many ways. It gets a consistent 20-21 miles per gallon and the spacing and comfort is one of the best. The 2009-2012 versions were the golden age with the 2017-2025 versions being much smaller. Bluetooth, dual ac and temperature fans and back bench seat fan, cruise control and great windows and comfort in a large truck. Power driver seat with lumbar support. Excels in long distance travel 1,000’s of miles at a time. Can handle mountains and higher elevations and light under 5,000 pound towing.
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I love it!
I have had for a little over a month. It is excellent and more people should consider it. I compared Tundra, Tacoma, F-150 and Chevy. Overall, best value by far! The trunk is awesome, ride is car like, it has more than sufficient off road (4x4) capability 99% of us. Towing ability is respectable. Interior features are a great blend of luxury, quirky, and utility truck. It is so easy and pleasant to drive this truck. After 5 years of a Tacoma and a lousy Chevy 2500, I have finally stepped up into a truck built just for me. Gas mileage is okay- average about 18.5. I can get over 21 on highway. V-6 has plenty of power/torque. A great truck, high quality and I even like the looks.