Is the 2014 Ridgeline reliable?

Overall, the 2014 Ridgeline is considered a reliable choice within its class, backed by Honda’s reputation for durable engines and practical design. As an aging model from a discontinued generation, reliability today largely depends on how well a given used example has been maintained.

Reliability snapshot: how the 2014 Ridgeline stacks up

To understand reliability, it helps to look at owner experiences, expert reviews, and data from trusted trackers. The 2014 Ridgeline benefits from Honda’s engineering and a unibody platform that tends to ride smoothly and resist some of the typical truck-specific wear. The following points summarize what many owners and reviewers report about reliability and long-term ownership.

• Owners generally report solid reliability for routine use, with few major mechanical failures in well-maintained examples.


• Honda’s track record for low maintenance costs contributes to a favorable reliability perception for the Ridgeline within its segment.


• The 2014 model uses a proven 3.5-liter V6 and a unibody design, which tends to yield durable performance and less vulnerable chassis corrosion compared with older body-on-frame trucks.

In short, the 2014 Ridgeline tends to hold up well for daily driving and light-duty hauling, especially when regular maintenance is kept up. However, as with any aging vehicle, the condition of individual units can vary significantly based on usage and upkeep.

What can show up as the model ages

This section highlights common reliability considerations to watch for when evaluating a used 2014 Ridgeline. While not universal, these items have appeared in owner reports and reviews and are worth checking during inspection and test drive.

• Transmission and drivetrain sensitivity: some owners report varying transmission feel as vehicles accumulate miles; a thorough test drive can help reveal any hesitations or shuddering.


• Electrical and infotainment quirks: aging electronics can manifest as touchscreen lag, sensor warnings, or intermittent noncritical faults.


• Bed and tailgate wear: with use as a light-duty pickup, hardware in and around the bed and tailgate can show wear, though these are typically cosmetic unless the vehicle was used hard.

These caveats don’t negate reliability, but they are practical reminders that the individual vehicle’s history matters for a long-term ownership experience.

What the data says about reliability

Reliability ratings from major outlets and the vehicle’s recall history provide context beyond anecdotal owner reports. The 2014 Ridgeline sits in a reasonable range for its age and class when evaluated by independent reviewers and consumer data trackers.

• Consumer Reports places the Ridgeline’s reliability around the middle of the pack for mid-size pickups of its era, reflecting Honda’s strong engineering but acknowledging growing age-related wear in a discontinued model.


• J.D. Power and other quality-and-reliability assessments typically rate Honda trucks of this period as solid but sometimes note that maintenance history plays a larger role for longevity as these vehicles age.


• Recall history: the 2014 Ridgeline shares in campaigns common to the brand during that period, including campaigns tied to Takata airbags and related systems. Checking for open recalls via the VIN is recommended for any used purchase.

Taken together, the data suggests that the 2014 Ridgeline can be a dependable used truck, especially with a clean service record. Its reliability profile is solid for its age, but prospective buyers should verify maintenance history and any completed recalls.

Maintenance, ownership costs, and practical considerations

Reliability is closely tied to ongoing maintenance and ownership costs. The following factors influence how dependable a used 2014 Ridgeline will feel over time.

• Maintenance costs are generally in line with mid-size pickups, with routine services like oil changes, brakes, and tires forming the bulk of expenses.


• Fuel economy typically sits in the mid-teens to low-20s, depending on driving style, drivetrain (2WD vs. AWD), and payload usage, which affects overall ownership costs.


• Repair costs for common components (starter, alternator, suspension components) are generally reasonable, but parts availability can vary by region and vehicle history.


• Depreciation and value retention are decent for a Honda, but the model’s discontinued status can influence resale dynamics and older examples may require more careful vetting.

Visitors should budget for typical maintenance intervals and consider a pre-purchase inspection to uncover any issues not evident in a standard test drive.

Buying advice: how to assess a used 2014 Ridgeline

If you’re shopping for a used 2014 Ridgeline, use this quick checklist to gauge reliability-related health and ensure you’re buying a solid example.

1. Check service records for regular maintenance, including oil changes, transmission service, brake work, and tire replacements.


2. Inspect the engine and transmission for leaks, unusual noises, or rough shifting during a test drive.


3. Examine the bed, tailgate, and related hardware for excessive wear or damage, especially if the vehicle has seen heavy use.


4. Verify recalls by entering the VIN on official safety recall sites and confirm that any open campaigns have been completed.


5. Test drive under normal and loaded conditions (if possible) to assess drivetrain behavior, AWD performance, and braking with payload.

Following these steps helps mitigate the risk of buying a vehicle that could incur high repair costs later while providing a clearer picture of long-term reliability prospects.

Bottom line

The 2014 Ridgeline remains a practical and generally reliable option in the used mid-size pickup space, backed by Honda’s reputation for durable powertrains and reasonable maintenance costs. As with any older vehicle, reliability hinges on how well the specific example was cared for—maintenance history, recalls addressed, and evidence of timely service are the best predictors of long-term dependability.

Summary

In sum, the 2014 Ridgeline offers solid reliability for its era, especially for owners seeking a comfortable ride and practical utility. Prospective buyers should prioritize a comprehensive inspection and verify maintenance and recall history to maximize the likelihood of a dependable, long-lasting purchase.

What year of Honda Ridgeline to stay away from?

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 is the most reliable year of Honda Ridgeline?

The most reliable Honda Ridgeline years are generally considered to be the later models in the second generation, particularly 2020 and 2021, and newer, due to the switch to a more reliable 9-speed transmission. The 2024 model year is also noted as being particularly reliable. For the first generation, the years 2009-2012 and 2014 are frequently cited as reliable choices. 
Second Generation (2017–Present)

• Most Reliable:
  • 2020, 2021, and later: These years feature a 9-speed automatic transmission (ZF transmission) that is considered more reliable than the 6-speed used in earlier second-generation models. 
  • 2024: Specifically highlighted as very reliable, with a face-lifted interior and infotainment system. 
• Years to approach with caution:
  • 2017–2019: These models are more prone to issues, particularly with the 6-speed transmission and some electrical problems. Some owners have reported transmission failures on these models, though others have had no issues with proper maintenance. 

First Generation (2006–2014)

• Most Reliable:
  • 2009–2012: Often mentioned for their strong reliability. 
  • 2014: Frequently recommended as a solid choice. 
• Years to approach with caution:
  • 2006: Had the most issues, including engine problems like cylinder failure and numerous recalls. 

General advice

• Focus on maintenance: Regardless of the model year, proper and consistent maintenance is crucial for reliability. 
• Check for recalls: It is always recommended to check for and confirm that any recalls have been addressed before purchasing a used vehicle. 

How long will a 2014 Honda Ridgeline last?

The Honda Ridgeline comes in at first place in the category of trucks most likely to last 200,000 miles. About 3 percent of older versions of the Honda Ridgeline have reached the 200,000 mile mark.

Is the 2014 Honda Ridgeline reliable?

The 2014 Honda Ridgeline is generally considered reliable, with many owners reporting long-term durability and low maintenance costs. However, it does have some common issues to be aware of, particularly with the suspension and parking brake, and it has received some recalls. 
You can watch this video to learn about the reliability of the Honda Ridgeline: 1mCar Reviews hubYouTube · Sep 22, 2025
Positive aspects

• Long-term durability: Many owners report getting well over 100,000 miles, with some reaching 200,000+ miles with regular maintenance. 
• Low ownership costs: The average annual repair cost is relatively low, and the vehicle is known for its durable engine and transmission. 
• High customer ratings: J.D. Power gave it a perfect reliability score of five out of five, and other review sites like Cars.com and Edmunds also show positive reliability ratings from owners. 

Potential issues

• Suspension and steering: Some owners have reported issues with shocks, struts, ball joints, and wheel bearings, as well as leaks from the power steering system. 
• Parking brake: The parking brake is a common problem area reported by owners. 
• Brakes: Some issues have been noted with the master cylinder and calipers. 
• Recalls: The 2014 model has had several recalls, with the most common involving the driver's frontal airbag inflator. 

How to ensure reliability

• Stay up to date on maintenance: Follow the recommended maintenance schedule to ensure longevity. 
• Be proactive with common issues: Consider getting the suspension and power steering system checked, especially on higher-mileage vehicles. 
• Check for recall history: When purchasing a used model, check its VIN to ensure all recalls have been completed.