Imagine you’re driving down the highway in your newly bought Honda Ridgeline, only to discover the transmission is acting up and the paint is peeling. Not all Honda Ridgeline models are the same, and some have had major issues.
Specifically, the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2017, and 2019 are the years to avoid models have had problems like unreliable brakes and faulty electrical systems.
If you want to make a smart choice, it’s important to know which years to avoid.
So, what makes these particular years so troublesome?
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Key Takeaways
- Stay away from the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2017, and 2019 Honda Ridgeline models because they have transmission and paint problems.
- The 2008 model is especially known for peeling paint and issues with the climate control system.
- The 2019 model had recalls for problems with the fuel pump and timing belt.
- These recalls point out safety risks like faulty airbags and electrical fires.
- Regular maintenance and doing your homework are key to keeping your truck reliable and lasting longer.
Worst Honda Ridgeline Years
If you’re thinking about getting a Honda Ridgeline, you should steer clear of the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2017, and 2019 models. These years have big problems like bad transmissions, peeling paint, and lots of recalls.
For example, the 2008 model is known for its paint peeling off, climate control breaking, and body issues. The 2019 model had many recalls, especially for fuel pump and timing belt problems. People have also reported unreliable brakes, faulty electrical systems, and shaky transmissions in these years, making them less reliable.
While the Ridgeline is usually praised for its comfort and cool features, be careful with these specific years.
Issues With the 2017 Ridgeline
The 2017 Honda Ridgeline had some major problems with its engine and electronics. People reported issues like the truck stuttering when they tried to accelerate and the RPMs jumping around when going uphill. These problems made the Ridgeline less reliable and caused a lot of frustration for owners. There were also complaints about the navigation and radio systems randomly stopping.
| Problem | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Issues | Stuttering during acceleration, RPM bouncing on inclines |
| Electronic Issues | Navigation and radio randomly stopping |
| Recalls | Leaky fuel pumps causing fuel leaks and electrical shorts |
On top of that, there were three recalls because of leaky fuel pumps, which could cause fuel leaks and electrical shorts. If you’re thinking about getting a 2017 Ridgeline, it’s good to be aware of these issues.
Transmission Problems in 2017
People who own the 2017 Honda Ridgeline have reported major transmission problems, like rattling noises when driving on highways and gears changing too early before hitting 100,000 miles. These issues are common among many Ridgeline drivers.
If you’re going about 65 mph and hear a rattling sound, it could mean there’s something wrong with the transmission. Some drivers also mention the truck chugs when accelerating and the RPMs act weird on hills. These signs point to possible reliability problems with the transmission, making you wonder about the truck’s long-term dependability.
If you’re thinking about buying a 2017 Ridgeline, you should know about these transmission issues and consider them in your decision.
2017 Recalls and Fixes
Thinking about getting a 2017 Honda Ridgeline? You should know about some mechanical problems that led to recalls. The 2017 model had three major recalls for fuel pump leaks, electrical shorts, and propulsion system issues. Other years, like 2008 and 2019, also had big recalls for different mechanical problems, such as faulty airbags, potential electrical fires, and timing belt issues.
Here’s a breakdown of the recalls:
| Model Year | Key Recalls | Mechanical Issues |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Fuel Pump Leaks, Electrical Shorts, Propulsion System | Safety, Reliability |
| 2008 | Faulty Airbag, Electrical Fires, Climate Control | Airbag, Electrical |
| 2019 | Fuel Pump, Timing Belt, AWD System | Structural, AWD System |
These problems point to potential safety and reliability concerns you should think about.
2017 Electronics Malfunctions
When looking at the 2017 Honda Ridgeline, you’ll notice some issues with the electronics, like problems with the navigation and radio that can stop working randomly. These kinds of problems aren’t just limited to the 2017 model.
The 2008 Ridgeline also had problems with the climate control system. In 2019, some Ridgeline models were recalled because of electronic issues related to the fuel pump and timing belt.
These recurring electronic problems in different years can make some Honda Ridgeline models less reliable. Whether it’s your navigation system cutting out or your climate control failing, these issues can make driving less enjoyable.
Keep these factors in mind when deciding which Ridgeline model year to buy.
2008 Ridgeline Paint Problems
The 2008 Honda Ridgeline has major paint issues, such as the clear coat peeling off, which can cause rust and damage to the body. These problems are more than just about looks—they can affect important parts like the cab panels and weather stripping, which might result in leaks and interior damage.
Fixing these issues often costs a lot, which can lower the truck’s resale value and overall attractiveness.
Clear Coat Peeling
The 2008 Honda Ridgeline has a big problem with its clear coat and paint peeling. This problem really hurts the truck’s looks and can lead to expensive fixes.
You’ll mainly see this issue on the cab panels, and when the paint peels, the panels can even fall off, costing a lot to repair. The peeling clear coat doesn’t just look bad; it also exposes the metal underneath to the elements, which can make the truck wear out faster.
This makes taking care of a 2008 Ridgeline harder and more expensive over time, so it’s a good idea to think about other model years.
Body Integrity Issues
Owners of the 2008 Honda Ridgeline have reported major issues with the vehicle’s body, including severe paint problems. The clear coat and paint are peeling off, which not only makes the truck look bad but also hurts its resale value.
Some people have even had cab panels fall off, raising serious questions about the truck’s structural strength. The weather stripping on this model often rots, which can lead to water leaks and damage inside the truck.
These issues aren’t just about looks; they can lead to expensive repairs and a worse driving experience. If you’re thinking about buying a used Ridgeline, be cautious—especially with the 2008 model.
Climate Control Failures
If you’re thinking about buying a 2008 Honda Ridgeline, you should know that the climate control system is known to have problems that can be expensive to fix. Owners have reported that it can stop working early on, and repairs can cost more than $2,000.
This issue often comes along with other problems like paint peeling, weather stripping rotting, and cab panels falling off. These issues can make owning the vehicle more difficult and costly.
The fact that the climate control system can fail so early in the 2008 Ridgeline is a big worry for potential buyers. Keep these points in mind to avoid unexpected costs and hassles.
2008 Body Integrity Issues
The 2008 Honda Ridgeline has quite a few problems with its body. The paint and clear coat tend to peel off early, which can cause rust.
The panels on the cab can come loose, which is a safety risk. The weather stripping also tends to rot, letting water get inside and potentially causing mold.
On top of that, there are electrical issues with the wiring, which can be a fire hazard. All these issues make the 2008 Ridgeline a poor choice if you want a reliable and long-lasting vehicle.
2008 Climate Control Failures
The 2008 Honda Ridgeline had quite a few problems, especially with its climate control system. Owners often faced repair bills over $2,000 due to early failures in this system, making the truck less usable. These issues were common and added to the overall maintenance costs.
The truck also had problems with weather stripping and cab panels, which made the climate control issues even worse. Because of these problems, the 2008 Ridgeline’s reliability and comfort took a hit.
If you’re thinking about buying a used Ridgeline, the 2008 model year is one to be cautious about because of these recurring climate control problems.
Electrical Problems in 2008
The 2008 Honda Ridgeline had a lot of electrical problems, especially with its wiring that could potentially catch fire. Many owners reported that these wiring issues often caused the lights to come loose, making things even more dangerous.
The electrical troubles didn’t stop there; the climate control system also failed early on, leading to pricey repairs that sometimes cost more than $2,000. Because of these problems, the 2008 model had a lot of serious and expensive electrical issues.
If you’re thinking about buying a used Ridgeline, it’s important to know about these specific problems to avoid hassles and high repair costs.
2019 Ridgeline Recalls
When thinking about getting a Honda Ridgeline, you should know about some ongoing problems that caused several recalls.
The 2017 and 2019 models had a lot of issues, especially with the fuel pump and safety systems.
There were recalls for fuel leaks, electrical shorts, and major safety problems like airbags and seatbelts not working right.
It’s important to check out these particular years carefully before you buy.
Fuel Pump Issues
Despite Honda’s reputation for being reliable, the Ridgeline has had big problems with its fuel pump, leading to nine recalls that raised serious safety concerns. These recalls affected different model years and included issues like fuel leaks and electrical shorts, which could cause fires. Owners had to deal with immediate risks, so it was crucial for Honda to address these problems quickly to prevent accidents.
| Issue | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Fuel pump leaks | Fuel leaks |
| Electrical shorts | Fire hazards |
| Safety concerns | Potential accidents |
Fixing the fuel pump issues was necessary to keep the Ridgeline running well and to ensure safety. Ignoring these problems could lead to dangerous situations, highlighting the need to resolve fuel pump defects quickly.
Safety System Failures
Honda Ridgeline owners dealt with nine recalls because of problems with safety systems like airbags, seatbelts, and the AWD system. These issues posed serious risks, especially if airbags didn’t deploy during accidents.
The problems included:
- Airbags that mightn’t work in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Seatbelts that could fail during a collision.
- AWD systems that mightn’t function properly, affecting vehicle control.
- Electrical issues causing safety systems to fail.
- Faulty sensors giving wrong safety system responses.
Honda worked quickly to fix these issues. If you own a Ridgeline, make sure all recall repairs are done to keep yourself safe. These recalls show why it’s important to stay on top of vehicle safety updates.
2019 Structural and Transmission Issues
Ever wondered why Honda Ridgeline’s structural and transmission problems worry potential buyers?
Common issues include the 2017 model’s engine causing jerking during acceleration and fluctuating RPMs on hills. Transmission problems across different years include rattling at 65 mph and early gear shifts before reaching 100,000 miles.
The 2008 Ridgeline had problems with the clear coat and paint peeling, affecting the body, and issues with the climate control system.
The 2017 model also had three recalls due to a faulty fuel pump, which led to fuel leaks and electrical shorts. On top of that, electronics like navigation and radio often malfunction, making the model less reliable.
2019 AWD and Safety Concerns
When looking at the 2019 Honda Ridgeline, you’ll notice that the AWD system had some big problems, often needing the relays replaced.
Safety issues were also a concern, with reports of seatbelt and airbag problems affecting important systems.
Additionally, there were several recalls for fuel pump leaks and timing belt issues, which point to reliability problems for this model year.
Recalls and Mechanical Issues
The 2019 Honda Ridgeline has had several recalls for important parts like the fuel pump and timing belt. When looking at a 2019 Ridgeline, be aware of these mechanical issues, which can range from minor problems to serious safety risks.
- Fuel pump problems: These can cause the engine to stall or fail.
- Timing belt issues: The teeth can separate, leading to severe engine damage.
- Wobbly hood: At high speeds, the hood can wobble, which can be distracting and unsafe.
- AWD system issues: The all-wheel-drive system can get stuck and may need relay replacements.
- Seatbelt and airbag problems: Sometimes, these crucial safety features don’t work properly.
These recalls show that the 2019 Honda Ridgeline needs a careful check and possibly some repairs.
Transmission and Structural Problems
You should think carefully about the transmission and structural problems with the 2019 Honda Ridgeline, as it has some serious issues affecting its reliability and safety. Transmission problems include recalls for shaking and the timing belt teeth coming off, which can cause major engine damage. Structural problems are also concerning, with reports of the hood wobbling at high speeds. Additionally, safety issues like seatbelt and airbag malfunctions have been reported. These problems make the 2019 Ridgeline less dependable.
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Shaking, timing belt teeth coming off |
| Structural | Hood wobbling at high speeds |
| Safety | Seatbelt and airbag malfunctions |
| Recalls | Most recalls in the second-generation lineup |
| Reliability | Greatly affected |
These issues should make you cautious if you’re thinking about getting the 2019 model.
AWD System and Safety
The 2019 Honda Ridgeline has had various problems with its All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and safety features, causing worry for both owners and experts. The AWD system often gets stuck and usually needs a relay replacement to fix it.
Safety concerns are also significant, with reports of seatbelts and airbags not working properly when needed. Other issues include the hood shaking at high speeds and the transmission vibrating, which further adds to the vehicle’s lack of reliability.
- AWD system often fails
- Seatbelts and airbags not working
- Hood shakes at high speeds
- Transmission vibrates
- Most recalls in the second-generation models
These problems make the 2019 Honda Ridgeline a risky option, especially when it comes to safety and dependability.
Common Honda Ridgeline Problems
Honda Ridgeline owners often face issues like chipped paint, electrical problems, broken fuel pumps, engine troubles, and brake failures.
Chipped paint affects how the truck looks. Electrical problems can include glitches in the navigation system and radio issues. Broken fuel pumps can lead to fuel leaks, which are a safety hazard. Engine problems might involve transmission rattling and difficulties with gear changes, impacting the truck’s performance. Brake failures are a serious concern, affecting the vehicle’s safety and reliability.
These issues can greatly affect your Ridgeline’s usability and attractiveness, so it’s important to consider them before buying.
Best Honda Ridgeline Years
When looking at the best years for the Honda Ridgeline, the models from 2009, 2010, 2011, 2020, and 2021 are often recommended for their reliability and performance. These specific years have fewer complaints from owners and high ratings on sites like Edmunds and KBB.
If you’re thinking about buying a used Honda Ridgeline, these years are a good bet for a satisfying experience.
Here are some key points:
- 2009, 2010, 2011: Known for strong reliability and performance.
- 2020: High ratings and very few complaints.
- 2021: Features the latest tech and safety improvements.
These Honda Ridgeline models offer solid performance, making them great choices in the mid-size truck category.
Honda Ridgeline Buying Tips
When you’re thinking about buying a Honda Ridgeline, it’s important to look into problems specific to each model that might impact how well it runs and how long it lasts.
Check out how much it costs to maintain and repair each model year, as these costs can be quite different.
Inspect Model-Specific Issues
To make a smart choice when buying a Honda Ridgeline, it’s important to look at issues specific to different models that have been reported over the years.
Here are some common problems:
- Transmission issues (2006-2010): Trouble shifting into fourth gear, usually around 100,835 miles.
- Tailgate problems (2006-2017): Issues with the tailgate’s swing-out function, making the trunk hard to access.
- Jerky turning (2006-2010): Noise and shaking when turning due to problems with the rear axle, often because of worn-out differential fluid.
- Climate control failures (2008): Early breakdowns that can cost more than $2,000 to fix.
- Electrical problems: Fire risks in older models due to wiring harness issues.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
When buying a Honda Ridgeline, it’s important to think about how much you’ll spend on maintenance and repairs. On average, you’ll pay around $517 each year for maintenance, with regular visits costing about $67.
Compared to other trucks, the Ridgeline has lower repair costs, averaging $428 per year. Common fixes include changing brake pads, oil, and rotating tires. Doing simple tasks yourself, like oil changes and replacing air filters, can save you money.
Regular maintenance not only helps avoid expensive repairs but also keeps your vehicle running longer. These factors make the Honda Ridgeline a great choice for a cost-effective and reliable used mid-size truck.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Honda Cr V, Honda Element and Honda Pilot. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
If you’re thinking about getting a Honda Ridgeline, steer clear of the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2017, and 2019 models. These years have lots of problems like bad transmissions, peeling paint, and many recalls.
Do your research and look for more reliable years to make sure you get a smoother ride. By being careful, you’ll avoid a lot of trouble and make a smart choice in a dependable vehicle.
