Honda Ridgeline reliability: common problems by model year
Across 4 model years, the Honda Ridgeline has 690 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 37 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and engine. 2017 drew the most complaints (332), 2009 the fewest (35).
4
Model years tracked
690
Owner complaints
37
Recalls
229
Median per year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Honda Ridgeline vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $39,973–$43,842.
Which Ridgeline years have the most problems?
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
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
Transmission problems (2017-2019 6-speed): rough shifting, clunking, requiring premature fluid changes or flushes as early as 35,000 miles, significant reliability concerns. Frequency: very frequent.
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. Frequency: recurrent.
Transmission behavior (9-speed): described as "lazy" or unrefined with paddle shifters, can get warm under heavy load. Frequency: recurrent.
Build 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. Frequency: recurrent.
Dated/inferior technology: lack of speed limit sign recognition, steeply angled infotainment screen prone to scratches and glare, infotainment system lagging behind competitors. Frequency: recurrent.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Ridgeline. Individual model years are broken down above.