Honda Ridgeline Best and Worst Years (Top Picks!)

The Honda Ridgeline debuted in 2006 and is a universally applicable substitute for conventional pickup trucks.

The unibody architecture of this vehicle gives it the same driving comfort as an SUV, yet being a less rugged option.

We’ll examine the Ridgelines’ finest and worst years in this piece more closely.

VIDEO: 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline

Honda Ridgeline Best and Worst Years

The years for the Honda Ridgeline have been mixed. The Honda Ridgeline’s most significant model years are 2022 and 2023, which are the most recent models and offer the most cutting-edge technology and driving amenities. According to the total number of complaints and reviews from Consumer Reports, the 2012 Honda Ridgeline likewise has a high rating. However, according to Motor and Wheels, the Honda Ridgeline had problems with the transmission, engine, and electrical systems in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010. Remembering that a particular Honda Ridgeline’s reliability may differ based on its maintenance record, mileage, and other elements is vital. Therefore, before making a purchase, looking at the Honda Ridgeline’s dependability is advised. For individuals who value dependability and versatility, the Honda Ridgeline is a solid midsize pickup truck with cutting-edge amenities and firm performance.

What Are The Honda Ridgeline’s Best Years?

The top-tier Ridgeline models are shown below.

Honda Ridgelines 2022 and 2023

The most recent iterations of the Ridgeline are, without a doubt, the greatest; this shouldn’t come as a surprise since these are machines, not fine wines; they provide the most advanced technology and driving features and are the most developed and enhanced models to date.

The 2022 and 2023 models come in four trim levels and a V-6 motor, outstanding performers for regular on-road use mixed in with plenty of pickup capacity.

Except for including the Sonic Grey Pearl paint color, the 2022 and the 2023 models had no significant alterations. 

Honda Ridgeline 2022

• Edmunds: 4.5 out of 5
• 4.7 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book
• 80 of 100 for J.D. Power

Honda Ridgeline 2021

Another excellent choice for 2021, the Honda Ridgeline even received Car and Driver’s Editors’ Choice Award.

With a bolder, more robust exterior, an upgraded infotainment system, and new aesthetic packages from Honda Performance Development, the Ridgeline underwent a significant design revamp for 2021.

An 18-inch set of alloy wheels with all-terrain capability is standard for the non-HPD variants. 

• Edmunds: 4.61 out of 5
• 4.7 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book
• 80 of 100 for J.D. Power

Honda Ridgeline 2020

The excellent ride and handling, roomy cabin, and somewhat dated appearance of the 2020 Ridgeline make it a solid option.

There were no significant upgrades for the 2020 Ridgeline to set the stage for the previously mentioned 2021 design revision.

This model year adds a new nine-speed automatic transmission, fewer trim options (R.T. and RTL-T versions are no longer offered), and many ingenious innovations, like a more prominent and better 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen that replaces the 5.0-inch non-touchscreen. 

• Edmunds: 4.3 out of 5
• 4.7 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book
• J.D. Power rating: 81/100

Honda Ridgeline 2014

The 2014 Ridgeline is hailed for its car-like handling, unique trunk compartment, dent-resistant bed, and two-way tailgate.

The 2014 Ridgeline has hardly any improvements and is essentially a carryover. Nevertheless, there were fewer complaints for this model than for the 2013 model, even if neither option is likely to disappoint.

It is important to note that the lineup now includes a new Special Edition (S.E.) model. 

• Edmunds: 4.4 out of 5
• 4.7 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book
• J.D. Power: 82 out of 100

Honda Ridgeline 2012

The 2012 Ridgeline is a reliable choice thanks to its few complaints, excellent evaluations, and big, comfy interior.

A few minor adjustments were made for this model year, including a revised grille design, enhanced aerodynamics, and fuel-saving engine modifications.

The Ridgeline Sport, a brand-new trim, was positioned directly between the R.T. and RTS models. 

• Edmunds: 4.61 out of 5
• 4.7 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book
• 83 of 100 for J.D. Power

Honda Ridgelines 2010 and 2011.

Due to their age, the 2010 and 2011 Ridgelines wouldn’t be our first picks, but there’s no disputing that they’re both great trucks with few complaints.

These vehicles uphold tradition with excellent ride and handling, outstanding crash test results, and a cozy cabin.

The 2010 model Ridgeline’s 2011 successor could have been more balanced.

The only body color options added for the 2010 Ridgeline were maintaining the 2009 model’s performance and aesthetics. 

Honda Ridgeline 2011

• Edmunds: 5 out of 5
• 4.7 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book
• 83 of 100 for J.D. Power

Honda Ridgeline (2010)

• Edmunds: 4.5 out of 5
• 4.7 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book
• J.D. Power: 82 out of 100

What Are The Honda Ridgeline’s Worst Years?

The Honda Ridgeline is a reliable pickup, but like any older model, some years have proven worse than others.

Honda Ridgeline 2019

By any means, the 2019 Honda Ridgeline wasn’t a failure, but there were numerous electronics-related issues with the backup camera.

According to numerous accounts, the wiring harness connecting the body and the tailgate was shoddily built and susceptible to breakage, exposing wires.

The backup camera would then stop working or stop working effectively, which is dangerous.

Numerous owners also expressed concern over the hood’s ‘fluttering’ or up-and-down motion when driving.

One hundred problems and 16 complaints total for the 2019 Ridgeline at CarProblemZoo.com and CarComplaints.com, respectively.

Common issues:

• Hood trembles or sways
• Backup camera malfunction
• Failure of anti-collision
• Failed Autobrake function

Honda Ridgeline 2018

Similar to the 2019 model year that was just described, the 2018 Honda Ridgeline also experienced some issues with the backup camera.

According to one account, the rearview camera worked well for several months before developing problems, including erratic shutting off and fuzzy vision.

At CarComplaints.com, the 2018 Ridgeline received a total of 14 complaints, while CarProblemZoo.com recorded 113 issues.

Common issues:

• Incorrect backup camera
• Unacceptable wind sounds
• Capless gasoline systems can freeze because they collect water.
• Alert for the transmission system on the instrument cluster

Honda Ridgeline 2017

The second generation’s first vehicle, the 2017 Ridgeline, had a rough start, garnering hundreds of complaints.

The 2017 Ridgeline experienced issues with the backup camera, same as the 2018 and 2019 model years (it appears this model year is when the issue first appeared). 

The 2017 Ridgeline experienced the same issues with the cap-less fuel filter and the problems with the backup camera.

Total complaints and difficulties for the 2017 Ridgeline were 69 at CarComplaints.com and 237 at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common issues:

• Faulty fuel injectors, defective backup camera
• The vehicle did not stop entirely.
• Alert for the transmission system on the instrument cluster

Honda Ridgeline 2008

The infamous Takata airbags, known for exploding and spraying shrapnel, led to a plethora of complaints regarding the 2008 Honda Ridgeline.

The airbags had a history of rupturing from an overly high internal pressure, which might have caused metal pieces to fly at the driver and other passengers, seriously injuring or killing them.

Customers had to wait an excessive period for repairs due to the backlog and high demand for replacement airbags in one of the most extensive recalls in automotive history.

Additionally, this model year was well-known for the apparent coat flaking, particularly on the hood and roof.

There were a total of 38 complaints and 143 issues with the 2008 Ridgeline on CarComplaints.com and CarProblemZoo.com, respectively.

Common issues:

• The air conditioner won’t turn on
• Peeling clear coat
• Bent head gasket

Honda Ridgeline 2007

Like the 2008 model year, many 2007 Honda Ridgeline owners had significant repair wait times due to the Takata recall.

Similar to that, it also had extensive apparent coat peeling problems.

CarComplaints.com and CarProblemZoo.com recorded thirty-six complaints and 172 problems involving the 2007 Ridgeline.

Common issues:

• Clear coat flaking Windshield easily cracking
• Early rust 

Honda Ridgeline 2006

The most problematic of the bunch is the 2006 Honda Ridgeline.

Similar to earlier model years, it had issues with faulty airbags and paint but also had significant engine issues.

Many owners have complained, claiming that the failure of the fourth cylinder cost them thousands of dollars in repairs and necessitated the purchase of a new engine.

Total complaints and difficulties for the 2006 Ridgeline were 91 at CarComplaints.com and 258 at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common issues:

• An engine cylinder has failed.
• The engine ticking or tapping Display in the cluster is broken.

How Safe Is Honda Ridgeline?

A safe pickup vehicle with several safety measures is the Honda Ridgeline. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2022 Honda Ridgeline a Five-Star Safety Rating for its exceptional standard safety features.

Additionally, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline received top marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in all crashworthiness tests, including side and small overlap front and moderate overlap front.

Additionally, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline performs admirably in benchmark crash testing and receives nearly all five-star evaluations. The Honda Ridgeline is equipped with several safety features, such as an Advanced Compatibility EngineeringTM (ACETM) body structure, advanced front airbags (i-SRS), front side airbags with SmartVent® technology, side curtain airbags with rollover sensors, a rearview camera, traction control, and the most recent Honda Sensing® suite, which includes accident prevention technologies like lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist system.

The Honda Ridgeline is a safe option when picking a car for your family because it has several safety features and high safety ratings.

Reliability of Honda Ridgeline

Depending on the model year, the Honda Ridgeline has varying levels of reliability. The 2006 Honda Ridgeline is the one to avoid, according to Copilotsearch.com, as it has had the most owner complaints of any other model year.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline, on the other hand, has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, placing it sixth out of seven midsize pickups according to RepairPal. The 2020 and 2021 versions received a reliability score of three out of five from Consumer Reports.

GetJerry.com reports that the Honda Ridgeline is typically regarded as a very dependable pickup with minimal problems. U.S. News gave the 2023 Honda Ridgeline a good 80 out of 100 for projected reliability5.

Remembering that a particular Honda Ridgeline’s reliability may differ based on its maintenance record, mileage, and other elements is vital. Before making a purchase, looking at the Honda Ridgeline’s dependability is advised.

For individuals who value dependability and versatility, the Honda Ridgeline is a solid midsize pickup truck with cutting-edge amenities and strong performance.

How to find the best deals on a Honda Ridgeline?

You can look at online auto markets like Carbuyerlabs, Timeslifestyle, and Enginepatrol to find the greatest offers on a Honda Ridgeline. You can use these websites to look up new and used Honda Ridgelines in your area and compare their pricing at various dealerships. To get the best value possible, haggle with dealerships as well.

It’s crucial to remember that the cost of a Honda Ridgeline can change based on elements like the trim level, location, and mileage. To ensure you’re getting a fair deal for your money, it’s a good idea to examine the Honda Ridgeline’s dependability before purchasing.

Some Honda Ridgeline model years have reportedly experienced problems with engine cylinders, fuel injectors, and Takata airbag recall, according to Carcomplaints.com. Avoiding these model years and picking a dependable model year is advised.

Another option is to lease a Honda Ridgeline with lower upfront costs and monthly payments. Act quickly when you locate a good price on a Honda Ridgeline, according to Ridgelineownersclub.com, since good offers are frequently snapped up in less than a day.

Again, you can discover the best prices on a Honda Ridgeline by doing homework and haggling with dealerships.

Tips for maintaining your Honda Ridgeline

It’s critical to maintain your Honda Ridgeline to preserve its dependability and longevity. Maintaining your Ridgeline’s condition will be easier if you adhere to the suggested maintenance schedule provided by the Honda service shop. For further instructions and advice on maintenance, consult the owner’s handbook.

To run efficiently, your Honda Ridgeline needs regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. Additionally, you can keep an eye out for any prospective difficulties’ warning signals, such as odd noises or vibrations, and take immediate action to resolve them.

Before buying a used Honda Ridgeline, checking the engine performance and other available features is crucial to saving money on pricey repairs.

The 2006 Honda Ridgeline is the one to avoid, according to Copilotsearch.com, as it has had the most owner complaints of any other model year. Before making a purchase, it is advised to pick a dependable model year and consider having a professional inspect everything.

You can maintain the condition of your Honda Ridgeline and preserve its dependability and lifespan by adhering to the suggested maintenance schedule and taking care of any issues as soon as they arise.

How Can You Tell Whether Something Is a Lemon?

Purchase a vehicle history report.

There is no better initial step when purchasing a used car than to obtain a car history report. Two well-known services offer this information for little money: Anyone looking to purchase a used car will find the information provided by CarFax and AutoCheck extremely helpful. The reports let you know the number of past owners, whether or not it had any accidents, how frequently it required maintenance, and the current title.

The final section is among the most crucial since it contains the lemon label, which attests that the car followed the correct legal procedures to be designated as a lemon.

However, in some areas, dealers must inform a customer if the vehicle is a manufacturer buyback, which is a reliable way to determine whether a vehicle has a lemon title. However, it is the responsibility of the buyer to conduct a thorough investigation into the vehicle’s history.

Therefore, consumers may need help if they accidentally purchase a secondhand lemon because they must inspect it first.

Owner Background

You can view the owner’s history on the vehicle history report, which should indicate whether the manufacturer has purchased the vehicle back. While owners can claim a car is a lemon in a legal dispute and ask the automaker to buy back the problematic vehicle, that is a guaranteed technique to determine if the car was labeled a lemon.

You can also determine if the vehicle was sold or traded before it was given a lemon tag if the prior owner may have missed an issue. It also implies that the car’s persistent issue must be apparent.

Repair Record

Look carefully at the vehicle’s repair record and try to identify any recurring issues. Recurring problems in cars with lemon histories are simple to spot. You can determine whether the issues with the car are minor wear and tear concerns, such as those with the clutch or brakes, or a more severe problem.

Check to discover if the repairs were necessary or carried out even when the car was brand new. It can assist in determining whether the car is a lemon or if an incident like a collision or modification caused a misdiagnosed issue.

Are the repairs significant or minor? A severe repair would deal with the drivetrain or suspension, whereas a superficial one would address non-driving-related issues like window or seat controls. Severe repairs would be more challenging, but handling a car might not be a hassle if a car was considered a lemon for a less severe cause.

The report also shows whether repairs are being made at a dealership or a general shop. Like you would with any used car, examine the vehicle’s general condition and health and determine whether routine maintenance has also been carried out. This will assist you in deciding whether or not you should consider purchasing this car.

Inspection before purchase

Is the car still a good investment? You should get a pre-purchase inspection if the flaws are not too concerning or if you believe the automobile may have been incorrectly labeled as a lemon.

A mechanic can determine whether the problems are repairable and why the car was considered a lemon.

A technician can assist you in determining whether or not a recurring issue is indicative of more severe problems or worries about the quality of the vehicle.

Their satisfaction with the car might help determine if it is a worthwhile investment or a lost cause.

Honda Ridgeline FAQ’s

What are the finest Honda Ridgeline model years?

That’s encouraging for the model and provides yet another reason to consider these models when shopping for a used automobile. If you’re seeking to purchase a used 2014, 2018, or 2010 Ridgeline, we highly urge you do so.

What drawbacks are there to a Honda Ridgeline?

The NHTSA frequently receives complaints from car owners about exterior lighting, electrical systems, engines, and forward collision avoidance problems. The Honda Ridgeline is marketed as a vehicle for those looking for something unique. The manufacturer refers to it as a “mid-size adventure truck”.

Honda Ridgelines’ dependability?

Overall Reliability Scores: How Reliable Is the Honda Ridgeline? The Honda Ridgeline has an overall reliability rating of 80.35, making it a very reliable vehicle. The exact rankings of this car in relation to various other cars are shown in the chart below, however as a point of reference, the average overall rating is 57.

What is a Honda Ridgeline’s typical lifespan?

The Honda Ridgeline is the truck with the highest likelihood of lasting 200,000 miles, taking first position in the ranking. Only 3% of Honda Ridgeline models from earlier generations have surpassed 200,000 miles.

What does the Ridgeline look like in Toyota form?

Tacoma, Toyota

In comparison to a 2022 Honda Ridgeline, Toyota Tacoma trucks will show various competitive benefits. Additional standard safety features, more power, all-wheel drive that is standard (the Toyota Tacoma provides it as an option), a roomier interior, a longer and wider truck bed, better fuel economy, and more amenities are among the advantages you’ll enjoy.