What is a good year for the Honda Ridgeline?
For most buyers, the 2017–2019 Honda Ridgeline offers the best balance of reliability, value, and practicality.
As the Ridgeline has evolved through its two generations, different years suit different priorities—price, the latest tech, or the most up-to-date features and warranty. This article breaks down the factors and highlights year-by-year considerations to help you choose.
Generation context and what changed over time
The Ridgeline has lived in two generations so far. The first generation (2005–2014) was a unibody pickup with a focus on comfort and versatility, but it is generally viewed as less refined in payload and off-road capability than traditional body-on-frame pickups. The second generation arrived for the 2017 model year and refined ride quality, interior space, and on-pavement sophistication, making it a compelling everyday vehicle with pickup utility. Within this second generation, Honda gradually improved infotainment, safety features, and driveline refinement through the 2020s. If you’re buying used, those mid-cycle updates are a good signal that later years tend to be more polished while still offering strong value compared with brand-new trucks.
What makes a year good for a Ridgeline
To judge a Ridgeline year, consider reliability history, how much you’ll pay up front, feature content, and ongoing maintenance costs. The following list summarizes the most important criteria used by buyers and reviewers.
- Reliability and drivetrain quality: how often owners report repairs, and whether common issues appear across model years.
- Value and depreciation: how quickly the price drops after purchase and how much you get back on resale.
- Feature set and technology: availability of modern infotainment, driver-assistance features, and cabin comfort.
- Payload and towing suitability: whether the year meets your needs for bed utility, payload, and tow capacity.
- Maintenance and ownership costs: typical repair costs, service intervals, and warranty coverage on newer vs. older models.
In practice, the year you choose should reflect your priorities, and a well-documented, carefully serviced example from any good year can be a solid purchase. Always check maintenance records, recall history, and have a trusted mechanic inspect any used Ridgeline before buying.
Best overall used value: 2017–2019
Why these years stand out for buyers seeking value without sacrificing reliability.
- Strong reliability track record within the second generation
- Historically favorable pricing for a late-model used pickup
- Balanced ride quality, interior practicality, and bed features
- Good resale value relative to later, more expensive models
For those prioritizing price and proven reliability, a well-maintained 2017–2019 Ridgeline often delivers a pragmatic blend of comfort, capability, and cost that appeals to daily drivers who need occasional truck utility.
Newest features and safety: 2020–2023 models
These years bring refinements in technology and driver-assistance options, along with incremental improvements to ride and quietness.
- Updated infotainment and usability on higher trims
- Continued improvements to safety features and driver aids
- More refined driving experience with smoother power delivery
- Higher initial price than earlier years, but more content and longer support
If you want the latest convenience and safety tech without stepping into a brand-new truck, a 2020–2023 Ridgeline can be a compelling middle ground, offering modern features while still being more affordable than the newest models.
Newest model-year considerations: the latest on sale
If your budget allows, shopping the most recent model year or the newest certified pre-owned example typically yields the longest remaining warranty and the latest equipment, though it comes with a higher upfront cost.
- Latest styling cues and feature packages
- Recent improvements in infotainment, comfort, and safety tech
- Stronger resale value due to freshness and warranty
- Higher purchase price and potentially limited inventory on the used market
For buyers who want the most up-to-date Ridgeline experience and the longest possible warranty, targeting the newest available year is sensible, provided it fits your budget and availability.
Budget-oriented buying guide
Here's how to approach Ridgeline shopping based on your budget, with a focus on getting the most value for your money.
- Under about $15,000: look for late-model 2017–2018 units with higher mileage; ensure thorough inspection and confirm no major frame or transmission concerns.
- $15,000–$25,000: 2018–2020 models with moderate miles; you’re in the sweet spot for a balance of price, features, and reliability.
- $25,000–$35,000: 2020–2022 models with lower miles and more tech; you’ll gain newer safety systems and improved interiors.
- Above $35,000: latest model-year Ridgelines or certified pre-owned units with minimal wear; you’ll maximize warranty access and feature content.
Regardless of budget, always verify maintenance history, confirm there are no open recalls, and have a trusted mechanic perform an inspection to avoid hidden issues.
Buying tips and what to check
To increase your chances of a satisfying purchase, use these practical checks when evaluating a Ridgeline, especially if you’re considering a used example.
- Review maintenance records and service history for regular oil changes, brake service, and transmission fluid changes.
- Check for any open recalls and ensure corrective work has been completed.
- Inspect the frame and undercarriage for rust or damage, especially on older units from harsher climates.
- Test-drive for ride quality, noise levels, and steering response; verify four-wheel-drive operation if equipped.
- Inspect the bed, tailgate, and integrated storage features for proper function and signs of abuse.
Renters and first-time Ridgeline buyers should consider certified pre-owned programs that provide added warranty coverage and inspection guarantees.
Summary
The most practical answer for a good Ridgeline year, if you’re shopping used, is the 2017–2019 window for a strong balance of reliability and value. For buyers who want newer tech and features, 2020–2023 models offer meaningful upgrades, while the latest model year delivers the newest content and warranty advantages at a higher price. Your best pick depends on what you value most—price, tech, or latest safety—and on a careful inspection of the specific vehicle’s history. Always check recalls and maintenance records, and have a professional inspection before purchase.
