Honda Ridgeline problems
The Honda Ridgeline is a mid-size pickup truck manufactured by Honda. Currently the company's only pickup, it is built using a unibody frame and a transverse-mounted engine. It is offered only in a crew–cab short-box configuration with one powertrain.
First generation (YK1; 2006)
The first-generation Ridgeline went on sale in March 2005 as a 2006 model year vehicle. The Car Design Yearbook called it "Honda's first foray into the true heartland of the American automotive way of life—the pickup truck." An engineering team from Honda R&D Americas, led by Gary Flint, designed the vehicle. According to the author of Driving Honda, the automaker wanted to target buyers who were looking to move to a pickup from sedans, minivans, and sport utility vehicles (SUV).
The development started in 2001 with a development mule using an extended version of a first-generation Acura MDX with a competitor's pickup bed integrated into the rear structure. After four years of development, a Sport Utility Truck Concept was shown at the 2004 North American International Auto Show. Later that same year, Honda unveiled a revised version at the Specialty Equipment Market Association show and announced the official name of the vehicle, the Ridgeline. The production version of the Ridgeline was unveiled the following year at the 2005 North American International Auto Show.
Honda's publications claim that the first generation Ridgeline shared only 7% of its components with other Honda vehicles. Its powertrain resembled the one used in the first-generation Acura MDX but was "extensively calibrated and strengthened" for heavier hauling and towing duties.
Production of the first generation Ridgeline ended in early 2015.
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Honda Ridgeline model years
Common Honda Ridgeline problems
The Honda Ridgeline, a compact truck known for its utility and fuel efficiency, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.
Another common problem with the Honda Ridgeline is the transmission failing to shift into fourth gear, which can cause a vibration around 40 mph and a noticeable hesitation from the truck.
The Honda Ridgeline's tailgate has also been reported to have issues, with the swing-out function breaking and making the in-bed trunk inaccessible.
Additionally, some Honda Ridgeline owners have reported noise and shuddering whenever they steer their trucks around a tight corner, which has been traced back to the rear differential.
In summary, the Honda Ridgeline has several common problems, including engine issues, transmission problems, tailgate issues, and rear differential problems.
What issues does the Honda Ridgeline have?
A/C and Heater Problems
Some models of Ridgeline have an issue where the heater or A/C system doesn't kick on when it should. This problem is mostly about driver comfort in the cab, and some drivers may choose not to have the issue addressed, especially if they were thinking about upgrading soon anyway.
What are the negatives of the Honda Ridgeline?
Cons of the Honda Ridgeline:
Towing Capacity: While the Ridgeline offers respectable towing capabilities for light-duty tasks, it falls short compared to some of its competitors in the midsize truck segment, making it less suitable for heavy towing needs.
What year is Ridgeline best?
If you're looking for a used Honda Ridgeline, you have several model years to choose from. First-generation models ranging from 2009 to 2012 are known for their reliability, but second-generation models ranging from 2018 to the present are also good choices.
How long do Honda Ridgelines usually last?
Typically, you will find that the Honda Ridgeline can live around 200,000-250,000 miles with excellent care. This number might rise or fall depending on factors like repairs and maintenance, driving habits, weather conditions on the road, and other items - some in and others out of your control.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Honda Ridgeline years
We have researched Honda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Honda Ridgeline cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Honda Ridgeline model years:
- Honda Ridgeline 2017
- Honda Ridgeline 2006
- Honda Ridgeline 2007
- Honda Ridgeline 2019
- Honda Ridgeline 2008
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Honda Ridgeline model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Honda Ridgeline years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Honda Ridgeline car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Honda Ridgeline , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Structure problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Honda Ridgeline vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Ridgeline model years
A total of 56 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Ridgeline model years
There were a total of 37 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Ridgeline model years
There were a total of 41 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Ridgeline model years
There were a total of 100 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1590 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Honda Ridgeline . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Honda Ridgeline vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Honda Ridgeline 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5FPYK3F70KB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Honda Ridgeline. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer and another dealer, Gallatin Honda (2109 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066), were made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Ridgeline 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5FPYK2F6XKB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Honda Ridgeline. The contact stated that while at a red light, the vehicle stalled. No warning light was illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage approximately 82,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Honda Ridgeline 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5FPYK3F77KB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Honda Ridgeline. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Ridgeline 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5FPYK3F76KB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Honda Ridgeline. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Ridgeline 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5FPYK3F70MB
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Honda Ridgeline. The contact received a notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V321000 (Back Over Prevention) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that occasionally while in reverse, the reverse camera image display would flicker a distorted image. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.
Honda Ridgeline 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5FPYK3F70LB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: Scheduled my vehicle for recall related to the tailgate/camera/rear area warning system harness replacement for today 10-15-2024 after two notices. Upon arriving for my appointment, I learned that the dealer, Voyles Honda Marietta, GA does not have the parts, nor can they provide a time/date when parts would be available. Further, the Service Manager, Marvin, said the same parts issue is present with a fuel pump and electric steering campaign currently released. From prior involvement with many heavy truck campaign recalls, I know the O.E.M. Is required to have adequate repair parts to satisfy the released safety recall. In the previously noted Honda recalls this requirement is ignored by the manufacturer placing safety concern on the public, stressing dealers, and forcing vehicle owners to operate defective vehicles because parts to repair are not available, nor is there an expected date when they will be. Responses like “on manufacturer back order “ is not acceptable for a released National Safety Recall. Honda Corporate needs to be held accountable and owners need to be compensated for their inconvenience. Maybe restrict Honda from selling more vehicles until ALL safety campaigns are completed. NHTSA, check your records on Honda’s completion performance and take appropriate actions.
Honda Ridgeline 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5FPYK3F52LB
- Components: AIR BAGS,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Honda Ridgeline. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V064000(AIR BAGS) and 24V321000(BACK OVER PREVENTION); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced the failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Ridgeline 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5FPYK3F51JB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Honda Ridgeline. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 22V867000 (Back Over Prevention) and 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Ridgeline 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 5FPYK1F66EB
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Hight Pressure Steering line failed causing steering failure and oil spraying over the engine and manifold, causing extreme smoke under the hood and possible fire in the engine compartment.
Honda Ridgeline 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 5FPYK3F71JB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Honda Ridgeline. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, several unknown warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the lower connecting rod was causing the rob bearing to fail. After further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V751000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.
Honda Ridgeline 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 5FPYK3F75JB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Honda Ridgeline. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Ridgeline 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 5FPYK3F82PB
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Honda Ridgeline. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 20,117.
Honda Ridgeline 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 5FPYK3F70KB
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I am writing to bring to your attention a significant issue I have encountered with my 2019 Honda Ridgeline, which recently suffered a catastrophic engine failure from a seized connecting rod bearing, resulting in a blown engine. With virtually no warning, the dash lights illuminated and the engine lost power and started smoking while on the freeway. A 911 was called and police and fire responded. The engine compartment was drenched with water in an effort to prevent a fire. Any delay in emergency services response would have certainly resulted in a fire and possible accident or injury. The vehicle was towed to and is currently at my local Honda dealer who confirmed the cause of the engine failure. I was informed that there was a recall issued for this exact problem for 2017 and 2019 Honda Ridgelines, however my VIN was not included in the recall even though my vehicle experienced the same engine problems. Allstate insurance inspected the vehicle and confirmed the cause of the failure. Additionally, after researching this issue I found that there are numerous 2017 and 2019 Honda Ridgeline owners who have also experienced the same exact issues. I would like to understand why my vehicle was not included in this recall and if there is anything that the NHTSA can do to get it covered. I was told by Honda America that you have the authority to expand the recall. .
Honda Ridgeline 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: 5FPYK3F74PB
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The auto dimming feature on headlights fails to function. When the high beams are in use, they will not dim when approaching an oncoming vehicle. Conversely, when they are on low beam, they do not switch to high beam setting when it is totally dark outside and no cars are approaching. This fault was not disclosed during initial test drive and the dealerships only explanation is that they are sorry, but it can’t be fixed.
Honda Ridgeline 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 5FPYK3F52PB
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Vehicle is equipped with auto dimming headlights. The system is way too sensitive and dims headlights on reflected road signs and distant street lights. Honda says it is working properly. It is basically worthless and very distracting because when driving through a neighborhood with no other cars around it dims and brightens constantly. Honda says there is no way to adjust sensitivity! Previously I believe you could. 2020 Ridgelines worked perfectly?
Latest 5 recalls Honda Ridgeline
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 131 recalls for different components of the Honda Ridgeline.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Honda Ridgeline 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-09
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Honda (America Honda Motor Co) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ridgeline vehicles. The rearview camera (RVC) tailgate wire harness may fatigue and break, which can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying.
- Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the RVC tailgate wire harness, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 1, 2024. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Honda service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is YI7.
- Model: Honda Ridgeline 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-09
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Honda (America Honda Motor Co) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ridgeline vehicles. The rearview camera (RVC) tailgate wire harness may fatigue and break, which can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying.
- Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the RVC tailgate wire harness, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 1, 2024. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Honda service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is YI7.
- Model: Honda Ridgeline 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-09
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Honda (America Honda Motor Co) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ridgeline vehicles. The rearview camera (RVC) tailgate wire harness may fatigue and break, which can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying.
- Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the RVC tailgate wire harness, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 1, 2024. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Honda service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is YI7.
- Model: Honda Ridgeline 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-09
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Honda (America Honda Motor Co) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ridgeline vehicles. The rearview camera (RVC) tailgate wire harness may fatigue and break, which can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying.
- Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the RVC tailgate wire harness, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 1, 2024. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Honda service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is YI7.
- Model: Honda Ridgeline 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-07
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: STEERING:RACK AND PINION
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023 Passport and Ridgeline vehicles. The inner ball joint housing in the steering gearbox assembly may loosen and detach from the steering rack and result in a loss of steering control.
- Consequence: A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the steering gearbox as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 11, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is LHY.
Latest negative Honda Ridgeline car reviews
Latest positive Honda Ridgeline car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2012
The car has a super performance overall, but the brakes could be improved. The ride is very comfortable and the interior is well laid out. However, the stop and go mileage is pretty poor, averaging between 15-17. On the bright side, Honda is known for its reliability!
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Vehicle year: 2012
If you're looking for an excellent family utility vehicle with great ride, comfort, and reliability, this truck is perfect for you. Sometimes I forget I'm driving a pickup truck. The rear seats have a pull-down center armrest with cup holders, which is a blessing when the kids are riding with me. I love the huge trunk space under the rear deck and the two-way deck door opening. I even carry my golf clubs under the lift-up back seats. I recently finished a 3600-mile round trip from California to Texas and back, and it was very comfortable. The truck averaged 21.8 MPG over the whole trip. High-grade Michelin tires are supplied on alloy wheels. You can't go wrong with this truck.
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Vehicle year: 2006
I purchased my 06 in the fall of 2005 and I can confidently say that it is a reliable and durable vehicle. However, due to the harsh effects of Michigan road salt over the past 15 years, rust has become an issue that needs to be addressed.
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Vehicle year: 2009
I've owned 5 Fords and 1 Chevy, but I finally decided to get out of the big truck mode. It was a huge decision, but I'm extremely pleased to say that it was the right one. The Ridgeline has a great design, it's fun to drive, and it's a pleasure to own. Plus, I get to keep the extra dollars saved on gas! This is a solidly built truck that gets the job done. It's hard to believe that 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, and did I mention that there are no rattles either? If you're thinking about buying a truck, make sure to test drive the Ridgeline. Don't let your manly beliefs hold you back from experiencing a great ride. You'll be surprised and a lot happier that you did. I know I am!
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Vehicle year: 2023
If you're not planning on going off-road or towing, this vehicle is a great fit for your family. It's the king of the road!
Are you having problems with your Honda Ridgeline?
Chelsey Sporer 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 2007
Hello! Thank you for considering my vehicle. I purchased it in late 2005 because of its extensive safety features and fuel economy within the price point. Although I have put less than 2K miles on it, I am ready to sell. The reason being, the gas mileage is running 12-13 mpg rather than the 16-21. Additionally, as a petite driver, I found the significant blind spots in the right rear due to design and rear headrest configuration made the vehicle difficult and dangerous to drive. I believe the headrest design should be improved as the curvature forward makes it very uncomfortable and many people turn them around defeating the purpose. Lastly, it is difficult to judge distance when backing up due to the blind spots. Thank you for your consideration!
Mohammad Feeney 2024-11-24
Vehicle year: 2014
I'm so glad I chose this vehicle for its large amount of storage and cubbies, as well as its smooth test drive. However, I must admit that it falls short in nearly every other area.
Torey Quigley 2024-11-21
Vehicle year: 2006
My experience has been two-sided actually. From a family hauler perspective, it's great for taking the kids to after-school functions and throwing some groceries in the back on the way home. I'm glad to have the cover. However, as for a truck, I really wish I had my Silverado back, having traded it in on this. We camp in the summer and also tow the boat over to Dale Hollow on the weekends. The salesman assured me a 3500# boat would not be a problem, but unfortunately, this is not the case. The V-6 struggles to get the boat off of our street, let alone the heart attack I almost had trying to get it up a ramp. The brakes offer no confidence either when trying to bring the trailer to a halt (w/ trailer brakes!).
Edward Donnelly 2024-11-14
Vehicle year: 2023
When driving at low speeds, between 20-50 km/hr, the truck tends to surge forward even with just a light touch on the gas pedal. Additionally, when you let your foot off the gas, the torque converter kicks in and slows the vehicle down without any coasting in between acceleration and engine braking. This can be quite frustrating. If the issue cannot be resolved, I may have to consider other options.
Ernest Weissnat 2024-11-11
Vehicle year: 2012
This truck has had several issues that have been disappointing. The third brake light assembly broke off the truck on the highway after 2 years, which was out of warranty. Despite being a well-documented problem on forums, Honda USA was not helpful. The radio also had issues due to the antenna being located in the third brake light assembly. The brakes have needed to be replaced three times in three years, which is unusual for highway driving. The left front axle also blew out after three years. Additionally, the timing belt, spark plugs, and valve adjustment needed to be replaced for a total cost of $1500. The truck also requires frequent fluid changes, which is inconvenient. The seats are uncomfortable for moderate to long rides, and the interior design is confusing. Despite these issues, the truck may still hold some value until the new model is introduced.