FuelHigh
Low-pressure fuel pump failure (recall) causing stalling.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Confirm the fuel-pump recall was completed.
2017–2023 Honda Ridgeline · common problems & known faults
The 2nd-gen Ridgeline is a comfortable unibody truck; a fuel-pump recall and VCM are the main checks.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2017–2023 Honda Ridgeline are Low-pressure fuel pump failure (recall) causing stalling, The bonnet vibrates or flutters noticeably at motorway speeds, caused by degraded adhesive between the bonnet frame and skin, or a weak latch and VCM misfires / oil dilution. 2 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Turn these known faults into a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact Honda Ridgeline · $9.
Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Honda Ridgeline.
5.2/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 2
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
EngineMedium
VCM misfires / oil dilution.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Inspect oil for fuel dilution and feel for vibration.
Turn these known faults into a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact Honda Ridgeline · $9.
Build the inspection planInfotainmentLow
Early cars lacked a volume knob; screen lag and glitches.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test the touchscreen and audio controls.
TransmissionLow
Occasional shudder on light throttle.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Feel for judder at low speeds.
Body/InteriorMedium
Damp carpets under the rear seats or a musty smell in the cabin due to failing rear window seals or C-pillar body seam leaks.
- Typically appears
- 4-6 years old
- What to inspect
- Lift the rear seat bases and press your hand firmly into the carpet underneath. Check for dampness, water staining, or a strong mildew odour.
ElectricalMedium
Reversing camera failure or inoperative tailgate lock caused by the wiring harness chafing within the dual-action tailgate hinge.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Open the tailgate in its swing-door mode. Inspect the visible wiring loom near the hinge for chafing, and test the reversing camera with the engine running.
DrivetrainMedium
Groaning, grinding, or binding noises from the rear axle during tight, low-speed manoeuvres due to degraded i-VTM4 differential fluid.
- Typically appears
- Every 15,000-30,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Perform a tight figure-of-eight manoeuvre on the forecourt at low speed with the windows down. Listen carefully for groaning or juddering from the rear end.
BodyworkHigh
The bonnet vibrates or flutters noticeably at motorway speeds, caused by degraded adhesive between the bonnet frame and skin, or a weak latch.
- Typically appears
- 3-5 years old
- What to inspect
- Open the bonnet and press firmly on the underside structural webbing. Check for separation from the outer skin and ensure the latch engages securely without excessive play.
Inspecting a Honda Ridgeline?
Build a tickable plan for the viewing · where to look, what a bad result means and what to ask the seller. One-off price $9.
Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Ridgeline reliable?
Yes — it's one of the more dependable midsize trucks; verify the fuel-pump recall.
Is the Ridgeline a real truck?
It's a unibody design — great for daily use and light towing, less for heavy off-road work.
Does the Ridgeline burn oil?
VCM can cause some consumption; check the oil condition.
When does the timing belt need replacing on the 3.5-litre V6?
The 3.5-litre V6 engine utilises a timing belt rather than a chain. Honda specifies replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or every seven years, whichever occurs first. Dealers must check the service history; if there is no invoice for a belt and water pump replacement on an older vehicle, budget for immediate replacement.
What is the maximum towing capacity and payload for this generation?
All all-wheel-drive Ridgelines from this generation feature a maximum braked towing capacity of 2,267 kg. The unbraked limit remains standard for the class. Payload capacity in the load bed varies slightly by trim level but generally peaks at around 718 kg. Always verify the specific VIN plate before advising customers on commercial use.
Are there any specific checks required for the in-bed boot and tailgate?
Yes. The dual-action tailgate must open smoothly both downwards and sideways. Check the hinges for excessive play or corrosion. Additionally, open the lockable under-bed boot and inspect the rubber weather seal. Ensure the drain plug is present at the bottom and check for any standing water, which indicates a perished seal.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
More Honda models
Buying a Honda Ridgeline? Build a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact car · $9.
Build the plan