Honda Ridgeline Years to Avoid
The Honda Ridgeline is often praised for its unique design, combining the functionality of a truck with the comfort of an SUV. However, not all model years live up to Honda’s reputation for reliability. In this article, we’ll cover the Honda Ridgeline years to avoid, common problems you might face, and help you make an informed decision if you’re in the market for a used Ridgeline.
Key Takeaways
- Some Honda Ridgeline models are known for significant reliability issues.
- Honda Ridgeline years to avoid include 2006, 2007, and 2017.
- Common problems in these years involve transmission failures, engine issues, and electrical malfunctions.
- Knowing which years to avoid will save you money on repairs and help you buy a more dependable model.
Part 1: Overview of the Honda Ridgeline’s Popularity
The Honda Ridgeline has been a standout in the truck market since its debut in 2005, appealing to drivers who want a vehicle that combines a truck’s capability with the comfort of an SUV. Its unibody construction, which differs from traditional body-on-frame trucks, is a significant part of its appeal. It offers a smoother ride and better fuel efficiency compared to its competitors, but this design has also led to some reliability issues in certain model years.
Honda’s commitment to innovation is clear in the Ridgeline’s unique features, such as the in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate. However, some of these innovations, particularly in earlier models, came with problems that impacted the truck’s long-term reliability.
Common Problems Found in Certain Honda Ridgeline Years
Before diving into the specific Honda Ridgeline years to avoid, it’s essential to understand the common issues that have plagued this vehicle. Transmission problems, engine reliability, and electrical system failures are among the most frequently reported complaints from Ridgeline owners.
- Transmission Problems: Particularly in the 2006-2007 models, drivers experienced transmission slipping and difficulty shifting. These issues often led to expensive repairs, sometimes even full transmission replacements.
- Engine Issues: Many Ridgeline owners from the early models have reported engine misfires, unexpected stalling, and a noticeable lack of power under load. These issues often stemmed from poor design in the engine’s timing system.
- Electrical Failures: Problems with the infotainment system, electrical wiring, and the ignition are common in the 2017 model. Owners often complain about dashboard lights malfunctioning or total electrical failure, which can lead to costly repairs.
Why Knowing the Honda Ridgeline Years to Avoid Is Important
When purchasing a used Honda Ridgeline, knowing which model years to avoid can save you from a host of mechanical problems and expensive repairs. Certain model years are notorious for frequent breakdowns and high repair costs, which can significantly impact the truck’s resale value. The repair costs for common issues like transmission failures or engine repairs can reach several thousand dollars, making these years far more expensive to own in the long run.
Honda Ridgeline Years to Avoid
1. Honda Ridgeline 2006
The 2006 Honda Ridgeline, the debut model, has been one of the most problematic years in the lineup. While it introduced the world to Honda’s unibody truck design, it also suffered from several early design flaws.
Key Problems with the 2006 Ridgeline:
- Transmission Issues: The transmission in the 2006 model was notorious for slipping and failing, often requiring complete replacements. Many owners reported their trucks not shifting smoothly or the transmission jerking while changing gears.
- Timing Belt and Engine Problems: Another common issue with this year was timing belt failure, which could lead to catastrophic engine damage. The engine’s performance was inconsistent, with reports of misfires, stalling, and reduced power.
- Suspension Issues: Due to the new unibody design, some 2006 Ridgelines experienced suspension problems, including excessive body roll and poor handling under heavy loads.
2. Honda Ridgeline 2007
The 2007 Honda Ridgeline saw a continuation of many of the problems that plagued the 2006 model, with some issues even becoming more prominent.
Key Problems with the 2007 Ridgeline:
- Transmission Failures: Similar to the 2006 model, the 2007 Ridgeline was riddled with transmission issues, from slipping gears to complete transmission failure. These problems often appeared after just a few years of ownership, leading to costly repairs.
- Electrical System Malfunctions: Owners of the 2007 Ridgeline reported a variety of electrical issues, including battery drain, ignition problems, and failures with the truck’s lighting and infotainment systems.
- Body Integrity: Rust and body integrity issues were commonly reported in the 2007 model. The unibody design, while innovative, led to rust in areas that were difficult to repair, significantly impacting the longevity of the vehicle.
3. Honda Ridgeline 2017
The 2017 Honda Ridgeline marked the beginning of the second generation, and while it introduced several new features and design upgrades, it also had a number of reliability problems.
Key Problems with the 2017 Ridgeline:
- Transmission Jerking: One of the most common complaints about the 2017 model was jerking during gear shifts, particularly at lower speeds. This problem persisted despite multiple attempts by dealerships to fix it under warranty.
- Infotainment System Failures: The 2017 Ridgeline was also plagued with infotainment system bugs, including unresponsive touchscreens and issues with Bluetooth connectivity. These problems were not just frustrating but also posed safety risks by distracting drivers.
- Electronic Issues: Many owners experienced electrical malfunctions, such as dashboard lights flickering or staying on without reason. In some cases, these issues were linked to more severe electrical failures.
Other Honda Ridgeline Years with Reported Issues
While the 2006, 2007, and 2017 models are the most notorious, there are a few other Ridgeline years that have had some reliability issues.
- 2008: The 2008 Ridgeline saw fewer problems, but some owners reported brake issues, such as premature wear on the brake pads and rotors. This year also had occasional reports of transmission slipping.
- 2019: Though not as problematic as 2017, the 2019 Ridgeline still had issues with its infotainment system and connectivity problems. There were fewer reports of major mechanical failures, but the electronics issues were consistent.
These years are not as troublesome as the primary years to avoid, but they still warrant caution when considering a used model.
How to Identify a Problematic Honda Ridgeline
When shopping for a used Honda Ridgeline, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for signs of mechanical issues. Here’s what you should look for:
- Transmission Slipping: If the truck hesitates when shifting gears or you feel a jerk during acceleration, there may be transmission problems.
- Dashboard Warning Lights: If you see any warning lights, particularly for the engine or electrical system, it’s a red flag. This could indicate underlying issues that will be expensive to repair.
- Engine Noises: Listen for unusual noises when the engine is idling or under load. Knocking, ticking, or excessive engine noise can indicate wear or more serious internal problems.
- Diagnostic Tools: Before buying a used Ridgeline, consider using a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes that could point to hidden problems.
How to Mitigate Risks If You Own One of These Models
If you already own one of the Honda Ridgeline years to avoid, there are steps you can take to prevent major breakdowns.
- Stick to Regular Maintenance: Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is crucial. Regular oil changes, transmission fluid changes, and timing belt replacements can help mitigate some of the issues these trucks are known for.
- Consider an Extended Warranty: If you own a problematic Ridgeline, investing in an extended warranty could save you thousands in repair costs, particularly for expensive repairs like transmission replacements.
- Be Proactive with Repairs: If you start to experience electrical issues or transmission problems, addressing them early can prevent more severe damage. Waiting until something fails completely will likely cost more in repairs.
Part 2: Best Honda Ridgeline Models to Buy
While there are certain Honda Ridgeline years to avoid, there are also several model years that stand out for their reliability and performance. If you’re considering buying a Ridgeline, these are the models to look for.
Honda Ridgeline Models Known for Reliability
- 2014 Honda Ridgeline: The last model year of the first generation, the 2014 Ridgeline is often regarded as the most reliable of the bunch. It benefits from Honda’s improvements in transmission reliability and engine performance.
- 2018 Honda Ridgeline: The second generation saw significant improvements, with the 2018 model being one of the most reliable. Transmission and electrical issues were largely resolved by this point, and owners reported fewer complaints.
- 2020 Honda Ridgeline: The 2020 model continued to build on the improvements seen in 2018, with even more upgrades in infotainment and technology, making it a great choice for those looking for a more modern truck.
What Makes These Years Stand Out
These models feature improved transmission systems, better engine reliability, and fewer complaints regarding infotainment failures. Honda’s commitment to addressing the issues seen in earlier years resulted in more durable and dependable trucks, with owners reporting fewer major repairs and better long-term reliability.
FAQs About Honda Ridgeline Years to Avoid
Which Honda Ridgeline models have the worst reliability?
The 2006, 2007, and 2017 models are generally considered the worst for reliability. They suffer from transmission issues, engine problems, and electrical malfunctions.
Is it safe to buy a 2006 Honda Ridgeline?
While the 2006 model introduced the Ridgeline, it has significant transmission and engine problems. These issues can lead to costly repairs, making it a risky purchase unless the truck has been well-maintained and had necessary repairs done.
What are the most common problems with Honda Ridgeline trucks?
Common problems include transmission failures, engine reliability issues, and electrical system malfunctions. These issues are particularly prevalent in the 2006, 2007, and 2017 models.
Should I buy a used 2017 Honda Ridgeline?
The 2017 model has been reported to have transmission jerking and infotainment issues, making it a less reliable option. It may be better to look for a 2018 or later model if you’re considering a second-generation Ridgeline.
