What are common issues with the Honda Ridgeline?

Transmission problems (2017-2019 6-speed): Rough shifting, clunking, requiring premature fluid changes or flushes as early as 35,000 miles, significant reliability concerns. Poor driver-assist system implementation: Auto high beams described as "unusable" (cycling on/off erratically), radar cruise control described as "jerky" in traffic, lane-keeping assist ineffective on back roads.

Brands/Honda/Ridgeline

Photo: User:McChizzle / Public domain / Wikimedia Commons

Honda

Honda Ridgeline

Pick-up · Gas · 7 versions · owner report

Ranked #4 of 7 midsize pickup trucks on owner data, price and fuel economy

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Every generation

Should I buy one?

280Hp

Power

20–21mpg

Combined, EPA 2026

Typical asking price (US)$21,882–$30,816median $28,088 · 45 live listings

What owners say

Our take, from owner reports

Mixed to positive sentiment overall.

8 problems reported (1 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence

Problems owners report

Very frequentTransmission problems (2017-2019 6-speed)
Rough shifting, clunking, requiring premature fluid changes or flushes as early as 35,000 miles, significant reliability concerns.
RecurrentPoor driver-assist system implementation
Auto high beams described as "unusable" (cycling on/off erratically), radar cruise control described as "jerky" in traffic, lane-keeping assist ineffective on back roads.
RecurrentTransmission behavior (9-speed)
Described as "lazy" or unrefined with paddle shifters, can get warm under heavy load.

+ 5 more issues

RecurrentBuild quality/assembly issues
Misaligned body panels (bumper, bed trunk lid), defective weather stripping, leaking rear sliding window, fuel smell in cabin or garage potentially linked to EVAP or capless fuel system.
RecurrentDated/inferior technology
Lack of speed limit sign recognition, steeply angled infotainment screen prone to scratches and glare, infotainment system lagging behind competitors.
RecurrentHigher maintenance costs
Requires frequent differential and transmission fluid changes (e.g., every 30k-50k miles), timing belt replacement around 100,000 miles.
IsolatedBrake issues
Warped rotors reported at low mileage (e.g., 7,000 miles).
IsolatedWind noise/whistling
From damaged or poorly sealed windshield molding clips.

The version owners recommend

Insufficient owner data available to declare a definitive "best" trim. Feedback indicates frustration with Honda's packaging, where desirable features (e.g., premium audio) are locked behind top trims like the Black Edition, which may not offer a Bose system. The RTL-E trim is frequently mentioned as a well-equipped option. For the 2017-2019 generation, there is a strong consensus to avoid models with the 6-speed automatic transmission due to widely reported reliability concerns.

Competitors to consider

Owners compare it most often with the Ford Maverick, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Hyundai Santa Cruz.

Is the Ridgeline right for you?

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Full owner report

Overall sentiment

Mixed to positive sentiment overall. The Ridgeline is consistently praised for its superior ride quality, handling, and daily driving comfort, attributed to its unibody construction and independent rear suspension which make it feel more like a car or SUV than a traditional truck. The V6 engine is appreciated for its smooth, naturally aspirated power delivery and VTEC character. Practical features like the in-bed trunk, dual-action tailgate, and bed speakers are highlighted as major advantages for daily utility and lifestyle use. However, significant criticism centers on transmission performance and reliability concerns, particularly with the 6-speed automatic in 2017-2019 models, and a perceived lack of refinement in the 9-speed unit. Additional recurrent complaints include poor implementation of driver-assist features (especially auto high beams and radar cruise control), dated infotainment technology, and a styling that some find unappealing or "not a real truck." The consensus indicates high satisfaction among buyers prioritizing comfort, practicality, and Honda reliability for light-duty use, but disappointment among those expecting traditional truck ruggedness, cutting-edge tech, or flawless transmission behavior.

Positioning vs competitors

Positioned as a comfort- and practicality-focused alternative to traditional body-on-frame midsize trucks. It is consistently described as offering a superior ride, more car-like handling, and a more spacious, comfortable interior than the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier, though it is perceived as less rugged and less capable for serious off-roading. Compared to the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, it is seen as more refined, more powerful (V6 vs. turbo four-cylinder), and built to a higher quality standard, but at a higher price point and with inferior fuel economy. Versus full-size trucks like the Silverado 1500, it is acknowledged as being more maneuverable, more fuel-efficient, and sufficient for the vast majority of light-truck duties, but lacking in maximum towing/payload capacity and presence. It is often described as the ideal vehicle for buyers who want truck utility but prioritize daily driving comfort over traditional truck attributes.

Recommended configurations

AWD (i-VTM4 system) is strongly recommended for its capability in snow and ice, and for general traction. The in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate are universally recommended for their utility. Owners suggest verifying the functionality of driver-assist features (auto high beams, adaptive cruise) during a test drive, as they are frequently criticized. For used models, a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the transmission is strongly advised, especially for 2017-2019 model years. For new models, ensuring the vehicle is covered under warranty for the V6 engine recall/investigation is mentioned.

General recommendations

Highly recommended for buyers who need occasional truck utility (hauling, light towing under 5,000 lbs) but prioritize daily driving comfort, smooth ride, and interior space for passengers. Ideal for urban/suburban use, commuting, family road trips, and light outdoor recreation. Suitable for those transitioning from an SUV. NOT recommended for serious off-roading, frequent heavy towing at or near its 5,000-lb limit, or for buyers who place a high priority on traditional truck styling and rugged image. A thorough test drive focusing on transmission behavior at low speeds and on highways is essential. For used purchases, target 2020+ models to avoid the problematic 6-speed transmission, or budget for potential transmission service. Negotiate aggressively, as community feedback indicates these vehicles can be purchased under MSRP and depreciate more than some competitors, representing a good value on the used market.

Remarks

A clear generational divide exists regarding the transmission. The 6-speed automatic in 2017-2019 models is a major point of failure and concern, heavily influencing negative sentiment for those model years. The switch to a 9-speed transmission (a ZF design also used in the Pilot and Odyssey) in the 2020+ models appears to have improved reliability, though some refinement complaints remain. There is an ongoing NHTSA investigation into the 3.5L V6 engine in certain Honda vehicles (including the Ridgeline) mentioned by owners, which impacts perception of long-term reliability. The vehicle's unibody platform, shared with the Honda Pilot and Passport, is the direct cause of its praised ride quality but also its limitations for severe off-road use and its rejection by "real truck" buyers. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions and comparisons.

Generation by generation

Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).

Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2006. Years to avoid: 2019, 2017, 2006Source: NHTSA (US)Show table

Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Honda Ridgeline years to avoid

Year	Complaints	Recalls	Most-reported area
2026	8	0	exterior lighting
2025	96	2	exterior lighting
2024	61	1	electrical system
2023	128	5	exterior lighting
2022	117	3	exterior lighting
2021	101	7	engine
2020	169	9	electrical system
2019	236	12	fuel system
2018	162	8	electrical system
2017	342	9	electrical system
2014	34	7	air bags
2013	45	8	air bags
2012	24	12	air bags
2011	39	11	air bags

Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.

Recall notices147 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls

2025 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 24V321000

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.

2025 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 26V332000

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021, 2023 Acura TLX, 2019-2024 RDX, 2017-2020, 2022-2026 MDX, 2017-2021, 2023, 2025 Honda Ridgeline, 2017-2022 Pilot, 2019-2021 Passport, 2018-2026 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Insight, 2019-2021 HR-V, 2018-2020 Fit, 2020-2022 CR-V Hybrid, 2017-2022 CR-V, 2017-2018, 2021 Civic Type R, 2017-2021 Civic hatchback, 2016-2020 Civic coupe, 2016-2022 Civic, 2017-2022 Accord Hybrid, and 2016-2022 Accord vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, which can cause the air bags to deploy unintentionally during a crash.

2024 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 24V321000

2023 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:master cylindercampaign 23V458000

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.

2023 · steering:rack and pinioncampaign 24V184000

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.

2023 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 24V321000

2023 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 26V332000

2023 · structure:frame and memberscampaign 26V365000

American Honda Motor Company (Honda) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Honda Pilot, 2017-2023 Ridgeline, 2019-2023 Passport, and 2014-2020 Acura MDX vehicles that were sold in Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. The rear subframe may corrode at the suspension mounting points, which can result in rear suspension component failure.

2022 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:master cylindercampaign 23V458000

2022 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 24V321000

2022 · structure:frame and memberscampaign 26V365000

2021 · seat belts:rear/other:retractorcampaign 21V900000

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."

2021 · visibility:rearview mirrors/devices:exteriorcampaign 23V174000

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."

2021 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:master cylindercampaign 23V458000

2021 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 24V064000

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.

132 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.

Specifications

Generation

Body and years

3.5 V6

3.5L 6-cylinder · 280 hp · AWD · automatic

Built 2021–2026

Power280 Hp

Torque262 lb-ft (355 Nm)

Fuel (maker's test)20 mpg (11.5 L/100 km)

DriveAll wheel drive (4x4)

Transmission9 gears, automatic transmission

Engine3.5 L

AspirationNaturally aspirated engine

Cylinders6

Seats5 seats

Fuel typeGas

Body typePick-up

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