2021 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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Common 2021 Honda Ridgeline problems
The 2021 Honda Ridgeline has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners, which can be categorized into transmission issues, in-car electronics, and build quality concerns.
Transmission Issues:
In-Car Electronics:
- Infotainment system issues: Many owners have reported problems with the infotainment system, including frequent software freezes, display screen freezing, and difficulty connecting smartphones via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. These issues can be frustrating for drivers, as they may need to restart their vehicle or disconnect and reconnect their smartphone to regain functionality.
Build Quality Concerns:
- Front windshield defect: A few owners have reported receiving 2021 Ridgelines with a defective front windshield, which is being covered under warranty but may take several months to replace due to supply chain issues.
- Body panel adhesive and paint issues: Some owners have reported finding excessive body panel adhesive on their hood, which can lead to paint chipping and bulging. This issue may require a visit to a local body shop for repair.
- Rear seat mechanism issues: The passenger side rear seat mechanism in some Ridgelines may not function properly, which can be inconvenient for drivers who frequently transport passengers.
- Rattles and noises: Several owners have reported various rattles and noises in their Ridgeline, including a rear power sliding window rattle, a rattle from the right-hand side of the dash, an occasional rattle from the center speaker, and a metal "chirping" noise from the back seat. These issues can be distracting and may require multiple visits to the dealership for repair.
These common problems should be considered when purchasing a 2021 Honda Ridgeline, particularly if you plan to keep the vehicle for an extended period. Regular maintenance and addressing issues as they arise can help ensure a more enjoyable ownership experience.
Does the 2021 Honda Ridgeline have transmission problems?
2021 Honda Ridgeline Transmission Problems
It's scarce, but leaks could also endorse there's an issue with your transmission hose. Strange smells are a sign your transmission fluid is burning inside your components.
Is a 2021 Honda Ridgeline reliable?
The 2021 Honda Ridgeline has a predicted reliability score of 78 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What is the most common problem with a Honda Ridgeline?
Common Issues With The Honda Ridgeline
- #4 Cylinder Going Bad. The #4 Cylinder going bad is a serious problem that can significantly affect engine performance overall. ...
- Failed Fuel Injectors. ...
- A/C and Heater Problems. ...
- Transmission Issues. ...
- Electrical Troubles. ...
- Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You.
Are there any recalls on the 2021 Honda Ridgeline?
Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Pilot and Ridgeline, and 2020-2022 Passport and Odyssey vehicles. The heating pads behind both side-view mirrors may not be bonded properly, allowing the mirror glass to detach.
2021 Honda Ridgeline car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Honda Ridgeline problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Honda Ridgeline vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2021 Honda Ridgeline
The NHTSA has received 64 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Honda Ridgeline. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2021 Honda Ridgeline vehicles.
BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- 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.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: 5FPYK3F51MB
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Honda Ridgeline. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH and attempting to slow down for slower traffic ahead, the vehicle then failed to accelerate above 30 MPH. The vehicle was driven across three lanes of traffic onto the shoulder. After stopping and restarting the vehicle, the failure self-corrected and the vehicle operated normally. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 22,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-24
- VIN: 5FPYK3F7XMB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: What happened? While driving in the right lane on a two lane highway, I slowed slightly when approaching a vehicle ahead of me. I then started to move into the left lane to pass when the engine stopped (as confirmed by the tachometer quickly dropping to 0 (zero) rpms). In response, I started feathering the throttle and moved back into the right lane where the engine restarted on its own. I then continued my trip without further incident. This happened with approximately 60,000 miles on the truck which was purchased new by me. I did have a similar incident when the truck was much newer but didn't pay much attention as I was still learning Honda's ADAS and wasn't sure if 'pilot error' came into play. And to clarify, the only safety that was in use this time was Lane Keeping Assist but it wasn't active as I was actively signaling my lane change. Questions under your General Guidelines: While the engine stopped unexpectedly, I don't believe it was an engine fault simply due to the number of miles I've driven the truck with no similar problem. While my wife and I weren't at risk since traffic was light at the time with no one behind us, I can see a safety issue in heavier traffic, especially if the engine doesn't restart as soon as it did. The truck has not been inspected by Honda. I did file a complaint with American Honda (case #14787271) and they simply suggested a visit to my local Honda service department. But due to the very limited occurrence of this issue, I can't see how their service department can be of any help. During the incident occurrence, there were no warning lights, messages or otherwise hints of an impending problem.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-08
- VIN: 5FPYK3F70MB
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I received my recall number:24V-321 in the mail. I also had an emission control warning notice come on so I took the truck to a Honda dealer. The same day my RVC starting going out so they looked at that. Bottom line: they said the emission problem was a loose something with getting my oil changed. They said my backup camera problem wasn’t due to recall and that I need a new camera and by the way it’s going to cost me $700. I have 56000 miles on it and am very unhappy with wha’t going on.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
- VIN: 5FPYK3F17MB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: was denied recall for backup camera. my backup camera went dead July 4th weekend with heavy rain it worked again and glitch on and off. Made a appt 7/10/2024 at my local dealership where I bought the vehicle and was told they are going to take pictures of it and send them in for the harness. when I got there camera works atm and was denied on recall
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-14
- VIN: 5FPYK3F19MB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Back up camera blacks out from time to time.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-05
- VIN: 5FPYK3F58MB
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: While driving on a 4 lane road with a passing lane the automatic emergency braking system started slowing the vehicle down for a vehicle in the left hand turning lane. It was not directly in front of me. The warning tone and BRAKE flashing alarm come on frequently when driving on 2 lane roads and a vehicle is coming from the other direction. I have taken it to the dealership 3 times to have it corrected and was told everything is working correctly and for me to turn the system off.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- VIN: 5FPYK3F19MB
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Honda Ridgeline. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 224V064000 (Air Bags) 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 contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts would be available in January 2025. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-15
- VIN: 5FPYK3F57MB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While driving down highway moonroof exploded. Did not appear to be damaged by debris.
STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- VIN: 5FPYK3F54MB
- Components: STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I’ve had issues with the side view mirrors with this vehicle since the day that i took delivery. They were always wobbly. Honda issued a recall on them and the replacement mirrors look like “fun house” mirrors. They are super distorted and make me nauseous looking out of them. This is not an isolated incident. Many people are experiencing issues with the recalled mirrors being distorted. Honda needs to come up with another recall and real fix for this
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- VIN: 5FPYK3F76MB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The backup camera is not working consistently. An Internet search reveals that this is a common problem and previous model years were subject to a recall. I understand that there is a NHTSA investigation on going regarding this issue.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-04
- VIN: 5FPYK3F7XMB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: 3/4/2024. Backup camera failure. Black screen. Located broken wires in wiring harness. Same location as those in earlier recall.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- VIN: 5FPYK3F18MB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rear view camera failed. Only shows a black screen, same symptoms of the 2017-2020 Honda Ridgeline recall. Contacted Honda and was told it wasn’t covered and to pay to get it fixed. 2021 Ridgeline with 47,000 miles. I’m aware NHTSA has received 27 other complaints as well based upon a recent report.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5FPYK3F18MB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: A truck and car in front of me stopped suddenly and i has to push brakes to stop. my truck did not slow down and i hit almost full speed the truck in front of me. my brakes did not even leave i skid mark.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-12
- VIN: 5FPYK3F85MB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While traveling at highway speed, the glass panel of the sunroof/moonroof suddenly exploded outward without being struck by anything (i.e. rock, debris). There was no warning prior to the explosion. Glass fragments rained down into the interior of the cabin and flew off the roof of the vehicle as well. Though startling to experience, there were no injuries to me or other drivers. Other Honda owners have reported this same experience with randomly exploding sunroof glass. The vehicle was taken to a Honda dealer who refused to cover the cost of replacing the glass, falsely stating that only an impact could cause such damage. A subsequent claim has been submitted to my insurance company.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-27
- VIN: 5FPYK3F78MB
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I took my vehicle in to the dealer on 1/31/2023 to address recall 23-008 (Idle stop/start switch update). I had not had any problems with it , but I had them inspect it. They performed Bulletin 23-008, PGM-FI update. On 2/16/2023, after stopping at a stoplight, the engine shut down but it didn’t start back up when I tried to proceed. A message came up on the dash saying to put the vehicle in park and press the start button. I did that and the car started. I stopped at the dealer and told them what had happened and they performed bulletin 1103A8 Warrany Extension Campaign: Adjust Valves. I haven’t had the problem reoccur, but I keep getting an intermittent message on the dash, “Auto Engine Idle Stop Unavailable “. I’ve had the vehicle back in to the dealer numerous times about the message and they tell me that they could not duplicate, or they give me a list of things that could cause the message, but none of them apply. I believe it was something that they did in the two bulletins that is causing the message to come up on the dash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-11
- VIN: 5FPYK3F53MB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: After driving on the freeway for about 1 hour, took the exit to the right. Check engine light came on and vehicle had loss of power and was shuttering. Attempts at accelerating were met with little to no power. Tried turning off eco mode, no change. Limped to the first safe place to stop, avoiding any fast traffic behind. Shut off vehicle, and when I started again, no check engine light, vehicle operated as normal. I fear to think what would have happened when if my child were driving and had to make a merge onto heavy traffic. This is a serious safety issue that I have learned is known. A fix needs to happen before someone is seriously hurt.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-03
- VIN: 5FPYK3F10MB
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1. Vehicle shift to neutral while driving. 2. Shift vehicle from park to drive, but vehicle shift to neutral and alert for transmission failure comes on. 3. While waiting at a stop light in drive and on brake, vehicle shift to neutral and alert for transmission failure comes on.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-01
- VIN: 5FPYK3F8XMB
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: My model has an auto high-beam system that does not work (stays on with oncoming traffic, turns off when it sees a road sign). Also had a 2019 of the same vehicle and the auto high-beams worked on that model; my 2021 has the cameras in a new location which render the system worthless and dangerous.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-12
- VIN: 5FPYK3F74MB
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: the TPMS tire pressure monitoring system is inaccurate(low) by 4-5 PSI. This forces me to overinflate the tires by 4-5 PSI to Turn off the warning lights. I believe running constantly on over inflated tires is unsafe over time. It has been reported to the dealer on the past 3 services and they stated in writing that is normal for all the 2021 models
BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-15
- VIN: 5FPYK3F11MB
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Honda Ridgeline. The contact stated that the back over prevention camera was distorted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the contact that the back over prevention camera needed to be replaced; however, the part to repair the vehicle was on backorder. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-10
- VIN: 5FPYK3F59MB
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I purchased this 2021 Honda Ridgeline new. The windshield washers quit working about six months later. For the past 12 months I have been trying to get the replacement nozzles from no less than 8 different Honda dealers. They are on national back order and after repeated orders, most recently with Honda of Asheville NC I contacted the Honda customer support. Case # 13583397. Now after almost 30 days and at least 6 calls and e-mails to them I still have no idea if they will ever get these nozzles for me. As you can imagine with adverse weather conditions it is a major safety issue to have poor visibility out of the windshield. Please help!! These are specially designed low pressure nozzles so they are not available anywhere but Honda.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-30
- VIN: 5FPYK3F85MB
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The auto dimming feature on my ridgeline does not operate properly. Does not dim when on coming traffic approaches sometimes, and others do not stay on when it should. This has happened since I took possession of the vehicle and still happens today.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-09
- VIN: 5FPYK3F10MB
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Tailgate fell down while taking off from a red light, ground was flat and even. The vehicle also didn't trigger the light that the tailgate was open.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-27
- VIN: 5FPYK3F78MB
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The auto-highbeam feature does not operate properly. The highbeams are frequently engaged when an oncoming car is no more than 300 feet away. This irritates the oncoming motorist and creates a dangerous situation causing risk of a crash. The auto-highbeams also have a tendency to switch to low beam at inopportune times because the glare from roadside signs is recognized as an oncoming motorist.
2021 Honda Ridgeline recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2021 Honda Ridgeline.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Civic, 2020-2023 Ridgeline, 2021-2023 Passport, 2021-2022 Pilot, and 2020 Acura MDX vehicles. The tie rod fastener that connects the brake booster and the brake master cylinder may have been improperly assembled during manufacturing, which can cause the brake master cylinder to separate from the booster assembly.
- Consequence: Brake master cylinder separation can cause a loss of brake function and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the brake booster assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are VEU, AEV, and ZET.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Pilot and Ridgeline, and 2020-2022 Passport and Odyssey vehicles. The heating pads behind both side-view mirrors may not be bonded properly, allowing the mirror glass to detach. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: Detached mirror glass can reduce driver visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace both left and right side-view mirrors, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 17, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is FE5.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021 Accord Sedan, Accord Hybrid, CR-V, Ridgeline, 2022 Insight and CR-V Hybrid vehicles. The automatic locking retractor on the second-row center seat belt assembly may deactivate improperly, which can result in an unsecured child restraint system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the second-row center seat belt assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2022. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Honda Ridgeline problems:
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