Home FAQ

What are the negatives on a Honda Ridgeline?

The Honda Ridgeline is a popular midsize pickup truck known for its comfortable ride, versatile cargo bed, and Honda's reputation for reliability. However, like any vehicle, the Ridgeline has its fair share of drawbacks that potential buyers should consider before making a purchase.

Limited Towing and Payload Capacity

One of the primary downsides of the Honda Ridgeline is its relatively low towing and payload capacity compared to other midsize and full-size pickup trucks. The Ridgeline has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,580 pounds, which may not be sufficient for those who need to haul heavy loads or tow large trailers.

Fuel Economy Concerns

Another potential negative of the Honda Ridgeline is its fuel economy. While the Ridgeline's fuel efficiency is generally better than that of larger pickup trucks, it still lags behind some of its midsize competitors. The Ridgeline's EPA-estimated fuel economy is 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, which may not be as impressive as some buyers might expect from a Honda vehicle.

Limited Off-Road Capabilities

The Honda Ridgeline is designed more for on-road comfort and utility than off-road performance. While it does offer all-wheel drive and some off-road features, it is not as capable as dedicated off-road-oriented pickup trucks, such as the Jeep Gladiator or Ford Ranger. This may be a drawback for buyers who plan to use their truck for rugged outdoor activities or in challenging terrain.

Perceived Lack of Truck Authenticity

Some buyers may perceive the Honda Ridgeline as less "trucklike" than other midsize pickups, due to its unibody construction and car-like driving dynamics. This perception of the Ridgeline as being more of a crossover than a true truck may be a deterrent for some buyers who are looking for a more traditional pickup truck experience.

Higher Price Point

Compared to some of its midsize pickup competitors, the Honda Ridgeline tends to have a higher starting price. The base model Ridgeline has an MSRP of around $37,000, which may be out of reach for some buyers on a tighter budget. While the Ridgeline offers a lot of value in terms of its features and capabilities, the higher price point may be a drawback for some consumers.p>

In summary, while the Honda Ridgeline is a capable and well-rounded midsize pickup, it does have some notable drawbacks, including limited towing and payload capacity, fuel economy concerns, off-road limitations, and a higher price point. Potential buyers should carefully consider these factors to determine if the Ridgeline is the right fit for their needs and preferences.

What is the best year of Honda Ridgeline to buy?

The best Honda Ridgeline year to buy is generally considered to be 2020 or newer, with the 2024 being the most reliable year for the second generation, according to CarBuzz and Reddit users. Key reasons to choose 2020 or newer include the improved 9-speed transmission, a more modern infotainment system, and standard safety features like the Honda Sensing suite.
You can watch this video to learn more about the best and worst years to buy a Honda Ridgeline: 59sHursty's GarageYouTube · Sep 29, 2022
Recommended years:

2024: Often cited as the most reliable of the second generation, with a slightly updated interior and improved infotainment system.
2021: Received a significant refresh with updated exterior and interior styling. The HPD (Honda Performance Development) Package was also introduced this year.
2020: Marked a significant update with a new 9-speed automatic transmission and the addition of standard Honda Sensing safety features and standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

Years to approach with caution:

2017-2019: While these models have the same core engine, some have reported issues, particularly with the 6-speed transmission.

Considerations when buying

Transmission: Prioritize models from 2020 or newer for the 9-speed automatic transmission.
Features: If infotainment is a priority, look for 2021 and newer models, which received upgrades, including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Maintenance: Regardless of the year, proper maintenance is key to longevity, especially for models with the 6-speed transmission.

What are the most common problems with Honda Ridgeline?

Common problems reported for the Honda Ridgeline include transmission issues, fuel pump failures, and interior water leaks. Other frequently mentioned issues involve the infotainment system, engine problems such as misfires or stalling, and brake wear. Specific model years, such as 2006-2008 and 2017, have been cited as having more frequent complaints.
This video discusses common problems with the Honda Ridgeline, including engine issues and transmission problems: 1mJason SamkoYouTube · Sep 2, 2025
Transmission and Drivetrain

Slipping and hesitation: Some owners report transmission hesitation or slipping, which can sometimes be fixed with a software update.
Warning lights: The transmission and blind spot warning lights can come on at the same time due to a possible transmission system issue, sometimes requiring a torque converter replacement.
Differential fluid breakdown: This can cause a noise and judder on turns.

Engine and Fuel

Fuel pump failure: Model years 2017-2019 are particularly susceptible, with a recall issued for fuel pump replacement in affected vehicles.
Engine stalling and misfires: Some owners have experienced the check engine light and engine stalling, which may be linked to fuel injectors or other issues.
Crankshaft manufacturing defect: A recall addressed a defect in some engines that could lead to premature wear of connecting rod bearings.
Fuel leaks: Leaks can occur from the fuel pump, lines, or injectors.

Electrical and Infotainment

Infotainment system: The 9-inch touchscreen can be slow, with sluggish performance and poor voice recognition.
Headlights: Issues with automatic headlights turning off high beams have been reported.
Honda Sensing system: Some failures or issues with the Honda Sensing system have been reported.

What year should I avoid Ridgeline?

You should consider avoiding the 2006, 2007, 2008 first-generation models due to potential issues like premature suspension wear and the 2006 engine cylinder failure problem. For the second generation, the 2017-2019 models are often cited for transmission problems, including rough shifting and torque converter issues, with some problems being resolved by recalls or extended warranties but still representing a higher risk.
First-generation models to be cautious of

2006-2008: These years had issues with premature suspension wear (control arms, bushes, ball joints). The 2006 model is also known for a potential engine cylinder failure that can be costly to repair. By 2009, the radiator issue was largely resolved.

Second-generation models to be cautious of

2017-2019: These years are associated with a 6-speed automatic transmission that had issues like torque converter failure, rough shifting, and fuel pump faults. While some issues were addressed by recalls and extended warranties, these models are still considered higher risk compared to later years.

What to consider if you buy one of these years

Maintenance is key: Even with these years, a well-maintained vehicle can still be a great buy.
Check for recalls: Before purchasing, check if recalls for the specific model have been performed.
Transmission fluid: Regularly changing the transmission fluid can help prevent future issues, especially on high-mileage examples.
Buy from a trusted seller: If possible, buy from a reputable seller or consider a certified pre-owned vehicle, as they are more likely to have been properly inspected and repaired, say Reddit users.

What are the cons of the Honda Ridgeline?

Some would say cons of the Honda Ridgeline include things like the towing capacity. Although the towing capacity is respectable, it is not up to par with larger trucks. The increased comfort means that off-road capabilities have been decreased. Lastly, there's a limited number of trim options compared to other trucks.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.