Are there any recalls on the 2018 Honda Ridgeline?
The 2018 Honda Ridgeline has been subject to recall campaigns, most notably for airbag inflators as part of the broader Takata recall program. The exact recalls that apply to a given vehicle depend on its VIN, so owners should verify their specific status with official sources.
What recalls have affected the 2018 Ridgeline?
Honda has issued recalls over the years that covered the 2018 Ridgeline model range. The most prominent and persistent category has been airbag inflator recalls tied to the Takata safety campaign. In addition to airbags, there have been a small number of other safety and emissions-related recalls that included some Ridgeline units. The scope and remedies vary by defect and by VIN.
- Airbag inflator recalls (Takata and related campaigns) — The 2018 Ridgeline was among many Honda models affected by airbag inflator inspections and replacements to reduce the risk of inflation system failure. Remedy: replacement inflator modules or airbags at no cost to the owner.
- Other safety and emissions-related campaigns — Honda has issued additional recalls that included certain Ridgeline vehicles for issues ranging from electrical/electronic components to fuel/emissions-related defects. Remedies typically involve repairs or component replacements at authorized service centers, again at no charge.
These examples illustrate the general categories rather than an exhaustive list of every campaign. The exact recalls that apply to an individual 2018 Ridgeline depend on the vehicle’s VIN and the manufacturer’s defect classifications.
How to check recall status for your 2018 Ridgeline
To determine the current recall status for a specific vehicle, use VIN-based lookups from official sources and contact a dealer for service scheduling if needed.
- Visit the NHTSA SaferCar.gov recall lookup and enter your 17-digit VIN or search by year/make/model to see active and completed campaigns.
- Contact your local Honda dealer with your VIN; they can check Honda’s recall database and confirm any open campaigns and arrange repairs.
- Review your vehicle’s service history to confirm that recall-related repairs have been completed and keep documentation for your records.
Tip: If a recall is open, the repair is typically performed free of charge. Prompt action helps ensure your vehicle’s safety and compliance.
Summary
In summary, the 2018 Honda Ridgeline has faced recall campaigns, most prominently related to airbag inflators as part of the Takata program, along with a smaller number of other safety and emissions-related recalls. Because recall applicability depends on the VIN, owners should perform a VIN lookup with NHTSA or Honda and coordinate with a dealer to verify and address any open recalls.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Honda Ridgeline?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Transmission Major. Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.
- Fuel System/Emissions.
- Paint/Trim.
- In-car Electronics.
- Drive System.
- Exhaust.
- Electrical Accessories.
What years are bad for Honda Ridgeline?
The Honda Ridgeline years to avoid are primarily 2006, 2017, and 2018-2019, due to significant engine and transmission issues. The 2006 model is linked to a specific cylinder failure problem, while the 2017-2019 models suffered from transmission, torque converter, and fuel injector problems, especially on certain trims.
This video discusses reasons to avoid the Honda Ridgeline, including its design and off-road capability: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Aug 27, 2025
First generation (2006-2014)
- 2006: Prone to engine failure in the fourth cylinder, often occurring around 100,000 miles.
- 2006: Other issues include problems with the engine, interior accessories like the gauge cluster, and exterior paint clear coat fading or peeling.
Second generation (2017-present)
- 2017-2019: These model years are known for issues with the six-speed automatic transmission, including torque converter failure.
- 2017-2019: Also reported to have failed fuel injectors, which can impact fuel efficiency and performance.
- 2017: Specifically, the 2017 model year had a higher frequency of fuel injector failures.
- 2020: While 2020 was the first year of the new ZF 9-speed automatic transmission, some sources still cite concerns and note that the 2020 model year was part of a lawsuit concerning the transmission's programming, according to ClassAction.org.
What recalls on a 2018 Honda Ridgeline?
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling all Honda Genuine Accessory Tonneau Covers, part number 08Z07-T6Z-100F, sold for installation on 2017-2020 Ridgeline trucks. If the tonneau cover is not properly secured in the open or closed position, wind resistance may cause the cover to flip and buckle.
What is the recall on the Honda Ridgeline?
Recent Honda Ridgeline recalls include a 2024-2025 recall for the rearview camera due to a faulty tailgate wire harness that can cause the camera to fail, and a November 2023 recall for engine crankshaft manufacturing defects that could lead to engine failure. There is also an ongoing investigation into potential engine failures from connecting rod bearing issues affecting various Honda and Acura models, including some Ridgelines. Additionally, a recall for some 2023 models was issued for a steering issue, and a separate recall addressed a brake system problem affecting 2020-2023 models.
Recent recalls and investigations
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2023 engine recall: 38sPickup Truck Plus SUV TalkYouTube · Aug 26, 2025
- 2024-2025 Rearview Camera Recall: A recall was issued for 2020-2024 Ridgeline models because the rearview camera's tailgate wire harness can fatigue and break, preventing the camera image from displaying. This is due to potential water and salt damage, which can increase the risk of a collision while reversing.
- Engine Issues:
- A November 2023 recall addressed a manufacturing defect in the engine crankshaft that could cause connecting rod bearings to wear prematurely and lead to engine failure, stalling, or under-hood fires.
- A second federal investigation was launched in 2025 regarding connecting rod bearing failures in several Honda and Acura vehicles, including some Ridgelines, though the scope is still under evaluation.
- 2023 Steering Recall: Some 2023 Ridgelines were recalled due to a potential steering issue where the inner ball joint in the steering gearbox may loosen and detach, leading to a loss of steering control.
- 2020-2023 Brake Recall: A recall for certain 2020-2023 Ridgeline models addressed a problem with the tie rod fastener connecting the brake booster and master cylinder. This could cause the master cylinder to separate, leading to a loss of brake function.
How to check for recalls
- Check by VIN: You can use your vehicle's 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on websites like Kelley Blue Book or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to see if your specific vehicle is affected by any open recalls.
- Contact a dealer: An authorized Honda dealer can also check for open recalls on your vehicle.
- Await owner notification: If your vehicle is part of a recall, you should receive a notification by mail from the manufacturer with instructions on how to get the necessary repairs, which are performed free of charge.
