2017 Honda Ridgeline Safety Report

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with 5-star overall, frontal, and side ratings from NHTSA, and a 4-star rollover rating, its complaint and recall history reveal several significant areas of concern. With 321 total complaints, the most frequent issues reported are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (56 complaints) and ENGINE (49 complaints). Notably, there is a significant pattern of engine failures, often described as 'rod knock' or 'connecting rod bearing failure,' leading to complete engine seizure, even at mileages as low as 72,000 to 101,000 miles. This aligns with a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V751000) concerning engine damage due to manufacturing defects, increasing the risk of fire or crash. The vehicle has been subject to 7 recalls, addressing critical components such as the fuel pump (two separate recalls, one for general failure and another for cracking due to acid exposure), engine hard parts, rearview camera wiring, hood latch striker, and electrical system wiring. The rearview camera recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V502000) specifically notes that opening and closing the tailgate can break the wiring, causing camera failure and increasing crash risk. Another recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V080000) highlights potential corrosion in the rear wiring harness, which could unexpectedly activate the vehicle stability assist (VSA) system. These recalls indicate a proactive approach by Honda to address identified defects, but the sheer number and nature of the issues, particularly the engine and transmission problems frequently cited in complaints, suggest underlying reliability challenges. Beyond the engine, transmission issues are also prominent in complaints, with reports of slipping, juddering, and complete transmission failure, sometimes requiring replacement at significant cost. While no specific transmission recall is listed, the pattern of complaints, including diagnostic codes like P0776 and P0741, points to a potential systemic issue. The overall safety is bolstered by strong crash test results, but the recurring mechanical failures, particularly with the engine and transmission, and the numerous recalls, indicate that owners may face significant reliability and repair challenges.

Our recommendation: Given the excellent crash test scores but significant recurring engine and transmission issues, along with numerous recalls, a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended, focusing on the engine and transmission health.