2019 Honda Ridgeline Safety Report

2019 Honda Ridgeline: Excellent Crash Safety, but Numerous Recalls and Engine/Fuel System Complaints

225Complaints
10Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
7Injuries
Most reported components: Fuel System, Gasoline (34)Power Train (26)Fuel/Propulsion System (22)Engine (21)Electrical System (19)Structure (15)Back Over Prevention (10)Unknown Or Other (10)Service Brakes (9)Visibility/Wiper (5)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Honda Ridgeline

The 2019 Honda Ridgeline presents a mixed safety picture, characterized by excellent crash test performance but a notable number of recalls and consumer complaints, particularly concerning engine and fuel system issues. NHTSA awarded the vehicle a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars in frontal and side crash tests, and 4 stars in rollover. This indicates strong occupant protection in a collision. However, the vehicle has been subject to 10 recalls, a relatively high number, addressing critical components such as the fuel pump, engine internals, rearview camera, and hood latch. These recalls highlight potential manufacturing defects that could increase the risk of crashes or injuries if not addressed. Consumer complaints, totaling 225, frequently point to problems with the 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE' (34 complaints), 'POWER TRAIN' (26 complaints), and 'ENGINE' (21 complaints). Specific issues mentioned in complaints include engine knocking, rod bearing failures, catalytic converter problems, and transmission hesitation or failure. Several complaints directly reference recall-related issues, such as fuel pump failures causing stalls and rearview camera malfunctions due to wiring harness damage. While there are no reported crashes or deaths in the complaint data, 7 injuries have been reported, underscoring the potential severity of some of these issues. The recurring themes in complaints, especially regarding engine and fuel system reliability, align with the nature of several recalls. For instance, multiple recalls address fuel pump failures and engine internal component issues, directly correlating with the high complaint volume in these categories. The 'BACK OVER PREVENTION' recall for the rearview camera also mirrors consumer reports of inoperative cameras. While the Ridgeline excels in crashworthiness, the volume and nature of recalls and complaints suggest potential long-term reliability concerns, particularly with powertrain and fuel delivery systems, which prospective buyers should be aware of and ensure all recalls have been completed.

Reliability Score

The 2019 Honda Ridgeline receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2019 Honda Ridgeline

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Honda Ridgeline:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Knocking/Rod Bearing Failure
Multiple complaints describe engine knocking, rod bearing failure, and complete engine shutdown, often leading to expensive repairs or replacement. Some owners report issues similar to recall 23V751 but are not covered by VIN.
High Common 60000-150000 miles
Fuel Pump Failure/Cracking
Recalls 23V858000, 23V751000, and 20V314000 address fuel pump issues, including cracking and failure, which can lead to engine stalls or fuel leaks and fire risk. Complaints indicate owners are still waiting for parts for recall repairs.
High Common unknown miles
Transmission Hesitation/Failure
Owners report transmission jerking, shuddering, hesitation during acceleration, and complete transmission failure, sometimes after multiple fluid changes or updates. Diagnostic code P0741 (Torque Converter issue) is mentioned.
High Common 10000-99000 miles
Rearview Camera Failure
Recall 22V867000 addresses rearview camera failure due to wiring harness damage from tailgate operation, resulting in a black or flashing screen. Some complaints indicate VINs not included in the recall still experience the issue.
Medium Occasional unknown miles
Hood Latch Striker Damage/Separation
Recall 20V373000 indicates the hood latch striker may become damaged and separate, causing the hood to open while driving and obstruct the driver's view. Complaints confirm owners experiencing hood vibration/shaking.
High Occasional unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Honda Ridgeline:

Fuel System, Gasoline 15% of complaints

Frequent complaints and multiple recalls related to fuel pump failure, cracking, and delivery issues, potentially leading to engine stalls or fire.

Power Train 11% of complaints

Issues with transmission hesitation, jerking, shuddering, and outright failure, often requiring significant repairs or replacement.

Engine 9% of complaints

Reports of engine knocking, rod bearing failures, check engine lights, and complete engine shutdowns, with some issues mirroring recall conditions but not covered by VIN.

Electrical System 8% of complaints

Various electrical issues including alarm system malfunctions, dash warning lights, and general electronic failures leading to limp mode or stalling.

Structure 6% of complaints

Recalls and complaints related to hood latch issues and potential problems with roof/pillar trim affecting airbag deployment.

Back Over Prevention 4% of complaints

Rearview camera malfunctions due to wiring harness damage, leading to loss of rear visibility.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Honda Ridgeline

Is the 2019 Honda Ridgeline safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Honda Ridgeline received excellent crash test ratings, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has 10 recalls addressing critical safety components like the fuel pump, engine, and rearview camera, and 225 consumer complaints, including 7 injuries, indicating potential reliability and safety concerns outside of crash performance. It's crucial to ensure all recalls have been completed.

What are common problems with the 2019 Honda Ridgeline?

The most reported issues for the 2019 Honda Ridgeline involve the FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE (34 complaints), POWER TRAIN (26 complaints), and ENGINE (21 complaints). Specific common problems include fuel pump failures, engine knocking and rod bearing issues, transmission hesitation or failure, and rearview camera malfunctions. Several of these issues are also covered by recalls.

Are there any recalls for the 2019 Honda Ridgeline?

Yes, the 2019 Honda Ridgeline has 10 recalls. These include recalls for fuel pump failure (multiple instances), engine internal components (timing belt, rod bearings), rearview camera wiring, hood latch striker, and issues with the SRS control unit and curtain airbags. It is highly recommended to check if all applicable recalls have been performed on any specific vehicle.

How does the 2019 Honda Ridgeline perform in crash tests?

The 2019 Honda Ridgeline performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a perfect 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for both frontal and side crash tests, and 4 stars for rollover resistance, indicating strong occupant protection in various collision scenarios.

Should I be concerned about the engine issues in the 2019 Honda Ridgeline?

Yes, engine issues are a significant concern for the 2019 Honda Ridgeline, with 21 complaints and a recall (23V751000) related to engine internal components like timing belts and rod bearings. Many complaints describe severe problems like engine knocking, rod bearing failure, and complete engine shutdown, even for vehicles not covered by the recall VINs. Prospective buyers should investigate the vehicle's service history thoroughly and consider a pre-purchase inspection.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While offering excellent crash safety, the 2019 Honda Ridgeline has a notable history of recalls and consumer complaints, particularly concerning engine and fuel system reliability; ensure all 10 recalls have been addressed and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the powertrain.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Honda Ridgeline

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Honda Ridgeline. The data includes 225 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 10 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Honda Ridgeline an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.