2021 Honda Ridgeline Safety Report

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline presents a generally strong safety profile, evidenced by its excellent NHTSA crash test ratings, achieving 5 stars overall, 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover. However, an analysis of 91 NHTSA complaints, 5 recalls, and specific owner reports reveals several concerning patterns that temper this otherwise positive picture. While there are no reported crashes or deaths, there are 2 reported injuries. A significant area of concern revolves around the engine, which accounts for 12 complaints and is frequently mentioned in conjunction with 'POWER TRAIN,ENGINE' (5 complaints) and 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING' (3 complaints). Owners report critical issues such as engine knocking, connecting rod bearing failures, and complete engine failure, sometimes at relatively low mileages (e.g., 45,000-53,000 miles). Several complaints describe the vehicle entering 'limp mode' or stalling unexpectedly, posing a serious safety risk, especially in traffic. The 'Auto START/STOP' feature is also implicated in multiple instances where the engine fails to restart, requiring manual intervention. Another prominent issue is related to the vehicle's advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and exterior lighting. 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING' has 13 complaints, with specific mentions of auto high beam malfunctions and moisture in headlight housings. 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' has 6 complaints, and 'LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' has 2, detailing instances where the system triggers falsely, brakes unexpectedly, or completely fails, rendering critical safety features inoperable. The 'BACK OVER PREVENTION' system, specifically the rearview camera, is subject to a recall due to wire harness fatigue, which can lead to a loss of the camera image. Other recalls address potentially serious issues such as unintended airbag deployment, loss of brake function due to master cylinder separation, detached side-view mirror glass, and unsecured child restraints due to faulty seat belt retractors. The combination of high crash test scores with these recurring mechanical and electronic failures suggests that while the Ridgeline performs well in controlled crash scenarios, its long-term operational safety and reliability of critical components are questionable.

Our recommendation: While the 2021 Honda Ridgeline boasts excellent crash test scores, potential buyers should be aware of recurring engine issues, ADAS malfunctions, and multiple recalls. Thoroughly investigate service history, ensure all recalls have been addressed, and consider an extended warranty, especially for powertrain components.