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: 2009
Since 1985, I have owned an F-150 and four Silverados. However, I must say that the Honda is a better-built and more versatile vehicle. I do not require a vehicle for towing or hauling cattle, so the Honda is perfect for me. It is agile and rides as well as my wife's Acura. Recently, 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.
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Vehicle year: 2009
I purchased my 09 RT used from a reputable dealer a year ago with 80k miles. Since then, I've put 20k miles on it and have had no major issues. My mechanic is always impressed with how clean the inside is where the oil cap screws in. I use Mobil 1 full synthetic oil with the proper oil filter, which keeps the engine running strong and getting up to 23 mpg on the highway with a light load and no towing. Although I haven't towed anything yet, the truck handles great on dirt and muddy roads without needing to use the 4wd feature. The acceleration and shifting are good, and the climate control works well. The height and visibility are good, and there's plenty of storage, which is awesome. However, the interior fabric stains easily from water. I love the sliding rear window and the extra storage in the cab and truck bed, which beats the storage of a Toyota. There's ample passenger space, and I love how the rear seats fold up to load extra cargo. Although the transmission has a little clunk, it's normal and due to how I operate the accelerator pedal. I can get about 380 miles per tank of gas, 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 and although Toyota has a nice reputation, I got a better deal on this truck and it has everything I need at a fraction of the cost. Although the paint chips easily, touch up paint comes in handy. The suspension, steering, brakes, and power options all work great. I haven't used the 4wd yet, so I can't report on that. The cruise control works great, and the TPMS is accurate. I like the 5 ft bed; it's not too big and not too small. This is a very practical truck for the working man, and I chose a $285 a month payment over a $400 a month payment for the Toyota Tacoma certified (2 door single cab 4 cyl 2009).Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I was wondering if you could help me out. I'm looking for a Honda motor that has around 400k miles on it. I'm planning on using it for my truck, which I absolutely love. It's like a small military truck, haha. I've had a lot of people try to buy it from me, but I just can't part with it. The only thing that's been on my mind lately is the air bag recall. I heard that the part won't be available until later in the year. Do you happen to know anything about that?
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Vehicle year: 2019
This is really all the truck I need. I had a 2500HD and 1500 before, but after a while, they became tiresome to drive and park. Just getting in and out became a chore, and I am 6'3. The Ridgeline is a great rig and all one needs unless they are hanging drywall or hauling toys out to the desert. I had a 2019 Pilot and totaled it a few weeks before I bought the Ridgeline. I believe that Pilot saved my bacon in that head-on collision, which is why I got another Honda. My Pilot had the 'Honda Sensing,' and I didn't like how many false warnings I got. I found the only RTL Ridgeline (it doesn't have Honda Sensing) in San Diego County and jumped on it. I wasn't going to get another Honda with that safety feature... it still needs a lot of work. My Pilot always felt like someone else was also holding the steering wheel. It was almost scary when it would flash 'brake brake brake,' and the wheel would start pulsating for no reason except for a passing car going the other direction. Two issues I have are the rear doors don't open very wide, and the rear tailgate does not lock. However, I found on a Ridgeline forum that you can get the rear doors to open wider if you swap out the rear door hinges with the front. Also, there are companies that make a lock for the tailgate, and one that will even work with the OEM remote. I also plan on doing a bulb swap with the OEM bulbs for better visibility. My advice: stay away from the higher-end trims with all the electronics... keep it simple, and there is less to go wrong. One last thing: Honda, if you are listening, please move the terrain select button away from the center console lid. I'm tired of watching my Labrador change the setting with his front paws!
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Vehicle year: 2019
I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your 2019 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E! It sounds like you made a great choice in upgrading from your old 1996 Chevy C/K1500. It's great that the Ridgeline meets all of your needs and wants, and even exceeded your expectations. The combined 20 mpg and blind spot monitors are definitely important features to have. It's also impressive that you were able to get such a good deal on your purchase, and that people are already showing interest in your vehicle. Overall, it seems like the Ridgeline is a great option for anyone who needs a pickup for hauling, towing, and creature comfort needs. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!It's a new and unique way of looking at pickups. The unibody construction makes it ride and steer smoothly, without bouncing around on the highway or swaying in turns thanks to its independent rear suspension. I could go on, but you really need to drive one for yourself. I'm approaching 50K miles and am just as satisfied with my Ridgeline as I was in the original review above. There have been three recalls (fuel pump location fix, timing belt installation fix, hood flutter fix), all of which were done well. In my opinion, the 2019 model has been the sweet spot for this truck so far. While subsequent changes to the front styling make the truck more appealing to some who want a more aggressive look, the other 'improvements' to the transmission and shifters are underwhelming. I prefer the setup on the 2019 much better with the 4WD button on the stick shift. Newer transmissions are full-time AWD only. But, ALL Ridgelines are great trucks! Honda fixed the inadequately opening rear doors on new trucks, which I had to do myself by installing front door retarders on the rear doors (1 hour/easy). I hope to drive my Ridgeline for many more years, but if I were in the market for another truck, I would buy another Honda (the Swiss army knife of trucks).
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Vehicle year: 2008
My younger days of aggressive off-roading are over. It's been a while since I've hit the trails, now I live in the suburbs and occasionally venture up north to the Pocono mountains. This truck is perfect for the weekend warrior who wants a smooth ride without sacrificing the ability to handle some light off-roading. It feels more like a comfortable SUV than a rugged truck. The only minor issue I've encountered is that the doors don't stay open very well on hills or in windy conditions. However, I've put 115,000 miles on this truck and it has never let me down. Recently, I had the timing belt replaced and I plan to keep driving this truck for at least another 5 years. I have complete confidence that it will continue to serve me well in the future.
Are you having problems with your Honda Ridgeline?
Alf Parker 2025-04-23
Vehicle year: 2018
On November 17, 2017, we purchased a brand new 2018 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E, VIN 5FPYK3F75JB007572, for a cash price of $42,560.00 from Buerkle Honda. Despite the initial excitement, we noticed an air noise coming from the driver's side front window as soon as we hit 45 mph. We immediately contacted the dealer and scheduled an appointment with their warranty manager. During the visit on November 24, 2017, a technician test drove the vehicle and heard the noise. They identified the problem as a trim panel on the driver's side door and replaced it. Although the noise seemed to have disappeared, it returned as soon as we drove off the lot. Over the next week, my wife drove the vehicle to work and back, and the noise persisted, even at low speeds. After conducting our own tests with a sound meter, we contacted Buerkle again and scheduled another appointment with the warranty manager on December 12, 2017. During this visit, the technician confirmed that the noise was still present and informed us that it was inherent in the vehicle. He even let my wife test drive another new Ridgeline, which also had the same issue. Despite our disappointment, we appreciate the honesty of the technician and the dealership. We will consider writing to Honda to address this issue. Thank you for your attention to this matter.After numerous attempts to address the issues with my Honda vehicle, I received a call from North American Honda on 1-8-2018 at 1:16 p.m. Central Standard Time. During the call, the representative acknowledged my concerns and stated that the issue was with Honda's design and engineering. While the air conditioning was initially not functioning, it was promptly repaired by the dealer. However, there have been ongoing issues with the vehicle suddenly flashing a warning to brake while driving on flat, smooth, dry, paved roads at 55 mph. Despite taking it back to the dealer, the issue persists. As a confident Honda customer, I trust that this matter will be resolved in a timely and satisfactory manner.
Abner Corwin 2025-04-11
Vehicle year: 2022
At 3,000 miles, the truck experienced a transmission fault and was unable to come out of park. Despite the dealer's claim of fixing the issue, it recurred 90 miles from home. Unfortunately, Honda Roadside was unable to provide assistance, leaving me to handle the situation myself after taking a day off from work. Although a second dealer replaced the transmission module and the truck is now running smoothly, my confidence in its reliability has been shaken. While the truck is otherwise good, reliability is the most important aspect of any vehicle, and this one falls short. In hindsight, I should have chosen Toyota.
Vinnie Koch 2025-04-02
Vehicle year: 2018
It snowed then thawed, then froze again. When I went to fill up my tank at the gas station, I noticed that the cheap plastic flap on the capless fuel filler had broken off. It turned out that water had gotten between the outer plastic fuel flap and the inner stainless steel flap, causing it to freeze and block the filler path. Luckily, there was a Honda dealer just four blocks away. They were able to replace the defective plastic parts under warranty and I got my car back the very next day. The dealership even washed my car for me, but when I went to fill up my tank, I noticed that there was water from the car wash trapped between the two flaps. Unfortunately, this seems to happen every time it rains (which is quite frequent in the Pacific NW). I've seen many complaints on Honda owners' forums about frozen/leaking fuel fillers, but there don't seem to be any solutions from Honda. My solution may be to wrap a plastic bag around the fuel filler and secure it with a rubber band to keep water and dirt out. Honda, please take note - with RTL-E plus tax and license plus extended warranty approaching $50k, a functional fuel filler should be a given.
Khalid Morissette 2025-03-20
Vehicle year: 2017
I have experienced issues with the sensors twice, both times due to the sensor compartment getting wet. The first time was during a rainy drive, and the second time was after a car wash. I have been informed that the unit will be replaced with new parts. However, given that other individuals have reported similar issues, it may be necessary for Honda to re-examine this area of the design. Although I paid cash for my vehicle and love the truck, I cannot tolerate this recurring issue.
Melany Hodkiewicz 2025-03-07
Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my new import vehicle. While the performance is great and it's a lot of fun to drive, I have to admit that I'm not completely sold on it yet. Driving it in the snow is an absolute dream and it tows my medium sized tent trailer with ease, but I've found that the front seats aren't very comfortable on long drives and my back ends up feeling pretty sore. Additionally, I've had a few issues with the tailgate that have required multiple trips to the dealership to fix, and even after all that, the problem still isn't completely resolved. After about a year of use, the driver door seal wore out and had to be replaced. Lastly, I've noticed that the paint is quite soft and scratches easily, so I would recommend avoiding darker colors if possible. Overall, while I'm not completely satisfied with my purchase, I'm hopeful that things will improve over time. Thanks for listening!