Does the Honda Ridgeline come with a trailer brake controller?
No—the Honda Ridgeline does not include a factory-installed trailer brake controller in recent model years. To tow trailers with brakes, you can install an aftermarket brake controller that uses the vehicle’s 7-pin wiring harness. For the most current options, check with a Honda dealer or the owner’s manual for your model year.
What the Ridgeline offers today
At a glance, Honda provides a towing package on certain trims with a 7-pin trailer wiring harness, but there is no built-in trailer brake controller offered by the factory. This means you’ll need an aftermarket solution if you require trailer braking assistance.
- The towing package typically includes a 7-pin trailer wiring harness to support brakes when used with an appropriate brake controller.
- There is no integrated trailer brake controller in Honda's factory options for Ridgeline as of the latest model years.
- Honda adds safety and towing aids like Trailer Stability Assist in some trims, but not an internal brake controller integration.
In practice, the practical takeaway is that a separate, aftermarket brake controller is required for trailer braking functionality beyond basic electrical wiring.
How to add an aftermarket trailer brake controller
To add an aftermarket trailer brake controller, you should first confirm your Ridgeline has the 7-pin connector and access to a reliable 12-volt power source for the controller. If you are unsure, consult a dealer or certified installer.
- Verify the presence and accessibility of a 7-pin trailer wiring harness at or near the hitch.
- Choose between a proportional or time-delayed brake controller and select a model compatible with your towing setup.
- Decide on installation method: DIY with a harness kit and dash-mounted controller, or professional installation for reliability and warranty considerations.
- Calibrate and test the controller with a trailer in a safe area, adjusting the gain and braking force to match trailer weight.
After installation, be sure to test the trailer brakes in a controlled environment and re-torque the hitch hardware if needed.
What to know about towing with a Ridgeline
The Ridgeline’s towing capacity is up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. If you plan to tow heavier loads or frequently use trailer brakes, ensure you meet all weight, wiring, and hitch requirements and follow the trailer braking regulations in your area.
Summary
Bottom line: There is no factory trailer brake controller in Honda Ridgeline models. You can add an aftermarket brake controller that connects to the 7-pin trailer wiring harness, with installation by a qualified technician often recommended. Always verify model-year specifics with a dealer, as features can vary by trim and region.
How do I know if my truck has a trailer brake controller?
How Do I Know If My Truck Has a Brake Controller? Most trucks come with a brake controller installed by the manufacture (OEM). The brake controller usually has an image of a trailer and you would see a dial and two small knobs.
Does a Ridgeline have a trailer brake controller?
Most camper style trailers utilize electric trailer brakes that require a brake controller to be installed within the tow vehicle. Honda Pilots and Ridgelines already have the necessary circuits built-in, including a harness to install trailer brakes (controllers are not included, but can be found at dealerships).
What is included in the Honda Ridgeline towing package?
The trailer hitch towing kit includes a trailer hitch ball mount, a trailer hitch locking pin, and a trailer hitch plug cover.
What year to stay away from 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.
