Which Honda Ridgeline can tow 5000 lbs?
Yes — the Honda Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds, but only when it’s equipped with Honda’s factory Trailer Tow Package. This applies to both generations of Ridgeline (2006–2014 and 2017–present). Without that equipment, towing capacity is typically lower. Always verify the exact rating for your specific year, trim, and installed equipment.
Understanding the 5,000-pound towing figure
The 5,000-pound towing limit is the maximum trailer weight the Ridgeline is rated to pull with the proper equipment and within its overall weight limits. The critical factor is having the Trailer Tow Package installed, which typically includes a higher-capacity cooling system, a hitch, and the necessary wiring. Towing at the limit also depends on payload, GCWR (gross combined weight rating), and tongue weight. Carrying passengers, cargo, and towing a heavy trailer all reduce the available capacity.
Two generations, same fundamental capability
Across both generations of the Ridgeline, 5,000 pounds is attainable when the vehicle is equipped with the official Tow Package. The specifics of what’s included can vary by year and trim, so owners should confirm their exact configuration and consult the owner’s manual for safe towing guidelines.
To quickly identify whether a specific Ridgeline can tow 5,000 pounds, check whether the factory Tow Package is installed and review the vehicle’s ratings in the window sticker or the owner's manual. If the Tow Package isn’t present, the maximum tow rating will be lower.
- Honda Ridgeline (2006–2014), equipped with the Trailer Tow Package: up to 5,000 pounds towing capacity
- Honda Ridgeline (2017–present), equipped with the Tow Package: up to 5,000 pounds towing capacity
The above points summarize which generations can reach the 5,000-pound mark when properly equipped. The exact contents of the Tow Package and availability may differ by model year and trim, so checking the specific vehicle’s documentation is essential.
What the Tow Package typically includes
Knowing what the Tow Package encompasses helps explain why the rating is specific to vehicles that have it installed. Components and features can vary by year, but the package generally provides the necessary hardware and cooling to support heavier trailer towing.
- Factory trailer hitch receiver
- 7-pin trailer wiring harness for lighting and braking signals
- Enhanced cooling for the engine and transmission (and sometimes a heavier-duty radiator)
- Tow/Haul transmission settings to optimize shifting during towing
Because contents can vary by model year and trim, verify the exact components on your Ridgeline before towing at the 5,000-pound limit. The Tow Package is required to reach the maximum rating, and exceeding it can affect vehicle safety and warranty coverage.
Practical considerations for towing 5,000 pounds safely
Even with the 5,000-pound capability, safe towing depends on more than the number on the door sticker. Proper load distribution, braking, and adherence to the vehicle’s ratings are essential for safe operation on the road.
- Check the vehicle’s GCWR and payload capacity to ensure you stay within limits for the load you carry in the trailer and in the cab.
- Use appropriate hitch and weight distribution equipment as recommended by Honda for towing at the 5,000-pound limit.
- Engage Tow/Haul mode as recommended during towing to optimize transmission behavior and engine braking.
- Ensure trailer brakes (and lighting) function correctly and the hitch is securely installed.
- Inspect tires, wheels, and suspension for towing loads well before trips, and plan for longer braking distances.
Following these guidelines helps ensure that towing up to 5,000 pounds with a Ridgeline remains safe and within warranty expectations. Always consult the vehicle’s owner manual and your dealership for model-year-specific guidance.
Summary
The Honda Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with Honda’s Trailer Tow Package, a configuration available on both the 2006–2014 and 2017–present generations. To tow at this limit, confirm your Ridgeline has the Tow Package (and appropriate wiring and hitch) and adhere to GCWR, payload, and tongue-weight guidelines. For any towing plan, verify the exact specifications for your year and trim, and perform a thorough pre-trip check to ensure safety and compliance.
Can a Honda Ridgeline really tow 5000 lbs?
Understanding the 2025 Honda Ridgeline Towing Capacity
The 2025 Honda Ridgeline is designed to handle a variety of towing tasks with ease. With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs, it is perfect for hauling trailers, boats, and more.
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.
Do all Honda Ridgelines have a tow package?
Every Honda Ridgeline is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, and since every model comes equipped with an Integrated Class III Trailer Hitch and a 7-Pin Connector, you won't have to worry about paying for a Honda Ridgeline tow package.
Which Hondas can tow 5000 lbs?
Honda Ridgeline: 5,000 lbs.
This rugged truck model enjoys superb Honda towing specs with a potent 3.5L V6 engine under the hood that produces a mighty 280 horsepower and 262 lb. -ft. of torque.
