Honda Ridgeline problems and known issues

By CarWhere Research · Updated

By NHTSA campaign count, the 2012 and 2019 Ridgeline lead with 11 recalls each. First-generation 2006–2014 trucks carry Takata inflator and salt-state rear-frame corrosion recalls. Second-generation 2017–2023 trucks from salt states are in rear subframe recall 26V365, whose final remedy Honda expected in fall 2026.

CarWhere lists 15 documented Ridgeline issues, including 15 NHTSA safety recalls, each with affected years, powertrains, symptoms, pre-purchase checks and a source. Recall entries come from NHTSA's recall dataset on the DOT open-data portal, which may not list every campaign, so run the specific VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup.

Ridgeline generations at a glance

2nd generation Ridgeline problems (2017–present)

Rear subframe may corrode at suspension mounts in salt states (recall 26V365) (2017–2023)

Safety recall
Generation:
2nd generation (2017–present)
Years:
2017–2023
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

Honda recalled 965,561 vehicles, including 2017–2023 Ridgelines sold in 22 salt-belt states and D.C., because the rear subframe can corrode at the suspension mounting points and let a rear control arm fail. Dealers will inspect the subframe, install a reinforcement kit and repair or replace parts as needed, free of charge. Interim letters went out July 27, 2026; Honda expected the final remedy in fall 2026.

Symptoms

  • Clunking from the rear over bumps
  • Wandering or unstable rear end
  • Visible rust flaking at the rear subframe

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
  • Look at the rear subframe and control arm mounts on a lift
  • Ask whether the reinforcement kit has been installed or is still pending

NHTSA recall: 26V365 (2026-06) · 965,561 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [1][2][3]

Connecting rod bearing may wear and seize the V6 (recall 23V751) (2017, 2019)

Safety recall
Generation:
2nd generation (2017–present)
Years:
2017, 2019
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

Certain 2017 and 2019 Ridgelines are in this 248,999-vehicle campaign, which also covers Odyssey, Pilot and Acura models. A manufacturing error can make connecting rod bearings wear and seize, damaging the engine. Dealers inspect and repair or replace the engine free of charge.

Symptoms

  • Engine knock
  • Rough running
  • Stall while driving

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
  • Ask whether the engine was inspected or replaced
  • Ask a Honda dealer for the repair order showing the recall work

NHTSA recall: 23V751 (2023-11) · 248,999 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [4]

Timing belt teeth may separate on 2019 models (recall 19V298) (2019)

Safety recall
Generation:
2nd generation (2017–present)
Years:
2019
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

Certain 2019 Ridgelines are in this 93,946-vehicle campaign. Timing belt teeth can separate and stall the engine. Dealers inspect and replace affected belts and fix any resulting engine damage free of charge.

Symptoms

  • Engine stall

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete

NHTSA recall: 19V298 (2019-04) · 93,946 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [5]

Fuel pump feed port may crack from car wash chemicals (recall 19V053) (2017–2019)

Safety recall
Generation:
2nd generation (2017–present)
Years:
2017–2019
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

On 106,683 2017–2019 Ridgelines, exposure to acids such as car wash soap can crack the fuel pump feed port, which sits under the bed, and leak pressurized fuel. Dealers replace the pump if needed and install a protective cover, free of charge.

Symptoms

  • Fuel smell around the bed
  • Fuel drip under the truck

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
  • Confirm the fuel pump cover is installed

NHTSA recall: 19V053 (2019-01) · 106,683 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [6]

Hood latch striker may separate and the hood can open (recall 21V932) (2017–2020)

Safety recall
Generation:
2nd generation (2017–present)
Years:
2017–2020
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

The hood latch striker can be damaged and separate from the hood, so the hood may fly open while driving. The 724,826-vehicle campaign covers 2017–2020 Ridgelines plus Pilots and Passports. Dealers repair the striker or replace the hood free of charge.

Symptoms

  • Hood does not close securely
  • Hood vibrates at speed

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
  • Close the hood and lift on it to confirm it latches

NHTSA recall: 21V932 (2021-11) · 724,826 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [7]

Tailgate camera wiring may break (recalls 22V867, 24V321) (2017–2024)

Safety recall
Generation:
2nd generation (2017–present)
Years:
2017–2024
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

Opening and closing the tailgate can fatigue the camera wiring. Recall 22V867 replaces the harness on 117,445 2017–2019 Ridgelines; recall 24V321 replaces the tailgate harness on 187,290 2020–2024 trucks. Both repairs are free.

Symptoms

  • No rear camera image
  • Image flickers when the tailgate moves

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
  • Check the camera image with the tailgate opened and closed several times

NHTSA recall: 24V321 (2024-05) · 187,290 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [8][9]

Brake booster tie-rod fastener may be loose (recall 23V458) (2020–2023)

Safety recall
Generation:
2nd generation (2017–present)
Years:
2020–2023
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

The fastener joining the brake booster and master cylinder may have been assembled incorrectly, letting the master cylinder separate and causing a loss of braking. The 124,077-vehicle campaign covers 2020–2023 Ridgelines and other Honda/Acura models. Dealers inspect and repair the assembly free of charge.

Symptoms

  • Brake pedal travel changes
  • Brake warning light

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete

NHTSA recall: 23V458 (2023-06) · 124,077 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [10]

Front passenger seat weight sensor may crack (recalls 26V332, 24V064) (2017–2021, 2023, 2025)

Safety recall
Generation:
2nd generation (2017–present)
Years:
2017–2021, 2023, 2025
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

A cracked passenger seat weight sensor can stop the air bag system from suppressing the passenger air bag. Recall 24V064 (750,114 vehicles) covers 2020–2021 Ridgelines; expansion 26V332 (98,892 units) covers 2017–2021, 2023 and 2025 Ridgelines. Dealers replace the sensor free of charge.

Symptoms

  • Passenger air bag indicator wrong
  • SRS warning light

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete

NHTSA recall: 26V332 (2026-05) · 98,892 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [11][12]

Low-pressure fuel pump may fail (recalls 23V858, 21V215) (2013–2014, 2017–2023)

Safety recall
Generation:
2nd generation (2017–present)
Years:
2013–2014, 2017–2023
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

Recall 21V215 (624,552 vehicles) covers 2019 Ridgelines. Expansion 23V858 (2,490,460 vehicles) lists 2013–2023 Ridgelines among many Honda and Acura models. A failed pump can stall the engine; dealers replace the pump module free of charge.

Symptoms

  • Hard starting
  • Stall while driving

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete

NHTSA recall: 23V858 (2023-12) · 2,490,460 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [13][14]

Other second-generation campaigns: mirrors, rear harness, seat rivets, steering, belts (23V174, 16V888, 18V221, 24V184, 21V900, 18V848) (2017–2023)

Safety recall
Generation:
2nd generation (2017–present)
Years:
2017–2023
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

23V174 (339,404 vehicles) replaces side mirrors whose glass can detach on 2020–2021 trucks. 16V888 (9,179 2017 AWD trucks built April 1 to August 11, 2016) fixes a rear harness that can corrode from water at the bed drain and trigger the stability system. 18V221 (5,810 vehicles) replaced front seat rail frames with faulty rivets on 2018 trucks. 24V184 (245 2023 Passports and Ridgelines) replaces steering gearboxes whose inner ball joint can loosen. 21V900 (4,346 vehicles) replaced 2021 rear center belt assemblies. 18V848 (404 vehicles) added a pillar trim bracket on 2019 trucks.

Symptoms

  • Unexpected stability-control activation
  • Loose steering
  • Mirror glass loose

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete

NHTSA recall: 23V174 (2023-03) · 339,404 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [15][16][17][18][19][20]

1st generation Ridgeline problems (2006–2014)

Rear frame corrosion may loosen the fuel tank in salt states (recall 22V430) (2006–2014)

Safety recall
Generation:
1st generation (2006–2014)
Years:
2006–2014
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

Road salt can corrode the frame where the fuel tank mounting bands attach, which can let the tank detach and leak fuel. Honda recalled 132,882 2006–2014 Ridgelines sold or registered in 22 salt-belt states and D.C. Dealers inspect and repair the rear frame free of charge, and Honda may offer to repurchase trucks with severe corrosion. Owner letters went out August 9, 2022.

Symptoms

  • Visible rust on the rear frame near the fuel tank
  • Fuel smell

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
  • Inspect the rear frame and tank straps on a lift, especially on trucks from the Northeast or Midwest
  • Ask for the inspection result on the repair order

NHTSA recall: 22V430 (2022-06) · 132,882 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [21][22][23]

Takata driver air bag inflators (recalls 16V061, 15V320 and replacement-part campaigns) (2006–2014)

Safety recall
Generation:
1st generation (2006–2014)
Years:
2006–2014
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

Every first-generation model year is in a Takata driver inflator recall. Recall 16V061 (2,232,187 vehicles) covers 2007–2014 Ridgelines and 15V320 covers 2006 trucks. Recalls 19V182 and 19V500 cover trucks that got a defective replacement driver inflator or module, and 19V499 covers 2006 replacement parts. Inflators that rupture can throw metal fragments; dealers replace them free of charge.

Symptoms

  • No warning sign before a crash; the defect only shows when the air bag deploys

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
  • Ask for the inflator replacement record, then re-check for 19V182/19V500 follow-ups

NHTSA recall: 16V061 (2016-02) · 2,232,187 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [24][25][26][27][28]

Takata passenger air bag inflators (recalls 16V344, 17V029, 18V041, 18V662, 19V501) (2006–2014)

Safety recall
Generation:
1st generation (2006–2014)
Years:
2006–2014
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

Passenger inflator campaigns were rolled out by region. 16V344 (1,790,894 vehicles) and 17V029 (308,884) cover 2006–2012 trucks depending on zone; 18V041 and 18V662 extend coverage to 2009–2014, with 2014 recalled nationwide under 18V662. 19V501 covers replacement-part inflators on 2006–2014 trucks, and early regional recalls 14V353/14V700 and install-error recall 18V268 also list the Ridgeline.

Symptoms

  • No warning sign before a crash; the defect only shows when the air bag deploys

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
  • Confirm the passenger inflator was replaced, regardless of where the truck lives now

NHTSA recall: 16V344 (2016-05) · 1,790,894 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [29][30][31][32][33][34][35][36]

HVAC blower connector may overheat if kicked (recall 10V001) (2006–2007)

Safety recall
Generation:
1st generation (2006–2014)
Years:
2006–2007
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

On 76,000 2006–2007 Ridgelines built January 17, 2005 to June 7, 2006, the blower motor connector under the passenger side of the dash can be kicked loose, overheat and melt, creating a fire risk. Dealers replace damaged connectors and fit a protective cover, free of charge.

Symptoms

  • Blower works only on some speeds
  • Melting or burning smell from the passenger footwell

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
  • Look under the passenger side of the dash for the protective cover

NHTSA recall: 10V001 (2010-01) · 76,000 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [37]

Spare tire and air bag indicator build errors (recalls 12V025, 12V432) (2011–2012)

Safety recall
Generation:
1st generation (2006–2014)
Years:
2011–2012
Powertrain:
3.5L V6

12V025 (206 trucks built August 25 to November 29, 2011) exchanged spare tires that did not match the tire placard. 12V432 (17 2012 trucks built April 18, 2012) replaced an incorrect passenger air bag status indicator.

Symptoms

  • Spare tire size differs from the placard

Check before buying

  • Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete

NHTSA recall: 12V025 (2012-01) · 206 vehicles in the campaign

Sources: [38][39]

Related Ridgeline research

This page explains specific mechanical issues and recalls. Which model years drew the most owner complaints relative to the rest of the model’s history is answered in the years-to-avoid research where CarWhere publishes it.

Confirm how a Ridgeline was built before you buy.

Engine, transmission and packages decide which of these issues apply. The CarWhere Honda build sheet reconstructs factory colors, options and packages from licensed VIN-level build data — availability is checked free, and it is $9.99 only when detailed build data is found for that VIN.

Honda build sheet by VIN

Frequently asked questions

Which Honda Ridgeline years have the most recalls?

Counting NHTSA campaigns that name each model year, the 2012 and 2019 Ridgeline have the most (11 each), then 2006 and 2011 (10 each). First-generation counts are driven by Takata air bag campaigns; the 2019 count includes the timing belt (19V298) and connecting rod bearing (23V751) recalls.

Is there a Ridgeline frame or rust recall?

Yes. Recall 22V430 covers 2006–2014 Ridgelines from 22 salt-belt states and D.C. whose rear frame can corrode where the fuel tank straps mount; Honda may repurchase badly corroded trucks. Recall 26V365 covers 2017–2023 trucks from those states for rear subframe corrosion at the suspension mounts.

Was there a 2015 or 2016 Honda Ridgeline?

Honda said in December 2013 that first-generation production in Lincoln, Alabama would end in mid-2014. The second generation began mass production in May 2016 as a 2017 model, so the line goes from 2014 straight to 2017.

Which Ridgeline years have engine recalls?

The 3.5L V6 in certain 2017 and 2019 Ridgelines is in connecting rod bearing recall 23V751, and certain 2019 trucks are in timing belt recall 19V298. Dealers inspect and repair or replace engines free of charge.

Is a new Ridgeline coming?

Honda announced on July 23, 2026 that a third-generation Ridgeline will arrive within two years, built in Alabama, and that 2026 Ridgeline production will pause later in 2026 ahead of it.

Sources

Issue descriptions are CarWhere’s own summaries of the sources below. Repair costs are shown only where a source states them and vary by shop and region.

  1. Recall 26V365: Rear Suspension Components May Fail — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  2. All-New 2017 Honda Ridgeline Pickup Truck Begins Mass Production in Alabama (May 5, 2016) — Honda News (American Honda Motor Co.)
  3. Honda Confirms Third-Generation Ridgeline Midsize Pickup with More Rugged Design, Arriving Within Two Years (July 23, 2026) — Honda News (American Honda Motor Co.)
  4. Recall 23V751: Engine Damage from Connecting Rod Bearing Wear — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  5. Recall 19V298: Timing Belt Teeth May Separate — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  6. Recall 19V053: Fuel Pump Feed Port May Crack And Leak — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  7. Recall 21V932: Hood May Open While Driving — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  8. Recall 24V321: Rearview Camera Image May Not Display — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  9. Recall 22V867: Rearview Camera May Fail — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  10. Recall 23V458: Loose Fastener on Brake Booster Assembly — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  11. Recall 26V332: Air Bags May Deploy Unintentionally During a Crash — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  12. Recall 24V064: Air Bag May Deploy Unintentionally During a Crash — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  13. Recall 23V858: Fuel Pump May Fail — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  14. Recall 21V215: Fuel Pump May Fail — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  15. Recall 23V174: Side-View Mirrors May Detach/FMVSS 111 — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  16. Recall 16V888: Water may Leak into Rear Wiring Harness — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  17. Recall 18V221: Rivets that Secure Seats may Fail/FMVSS 207, 210 — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  18. Recall 24V184: Improperly Secured Ball Joint in Steering Gearbox — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  19. Recall 21V900: Seat Belt Retractor Malfunction/FMVSS 208 — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  20. Recall 18V848: Pillar Mounting Holes Incorrect Size/FMVSS 214 226 — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  21. Recall 22V430: Frame Corrosion May Cause Fuel Leak — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  22. 2006 Honda Ridgeline Press Kit: Overview — Honda News (American Honda Motor Co.)
  23. All-new Honda Ridgeline Pickup to Debut Within Two Years (Dec. 10, 2013) — Honda News (American Honda Motor Co.)
  24. Recall 16V061: Driver's Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  25. Recall 15V320: Driver's Frontal Air Bag May Rupture — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  26. Recall 19V182: Driver Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  27. Recall 19V499: Driver Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  28. Recall 19V500: Driver Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  29. Recall 16V344: Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  30. Recall 17V029: Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  31. Recall 18V041: Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  32. Recall 18V662: Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  33. Recall 19V501: Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  34. Recall 14V353: Passenger Side Air Bag Inflator may Rupture — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  35. Recall 14V700: Passenger Air Bag Inflator May Rupture — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  36. Recall 18V268: Improperly Installed Passenger Air Bag — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  37. Recall 10V001: Blower Motor Heating Ventilation Ac — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  38. Recall 12V025: Spare Tire/Fmvss 110 — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)
  39. Recall 12V432: Passenger Airbag Indicator/FMVSS 208 — NHTSA (via data.transportation.gov recall dataset)

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