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2012 Honda Ridgeline Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 6, 2026·Daniel Wilson·9 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant recall history, with 13 campaigns logged, primarily involving airbag inflators. Confirm all recall work is completed.
  • The 3.5L V6 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission offer adequate power for daily use and moderate towing.
  • All-wheel drive provides added confidence in varied weather conditions.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for its class, rated at 17 MPG combined.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Honda Ridgeline

The 2012 Honda Ridgeline offers a unique blend of SUV comfort and truck utility. Its unibody construction provides a more refined ride than traditional body-on-frame trucks, making it a practical choice for daily driving. However, this generation is marked by a significant number of recalls, particularly concerning the airbag system, which buyers must carefully consider. Despite a lack of owner complaints, the extensive recall history, especially for critical safety components, warrants a cautious approach.

Critical Failure Risk

Critical recalls exist for Takata airbag inflators, which can rupture and deploy with excessive force, posing a severe safety risk. This issue affects both driver and passenger side frontal inflators.

Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls13
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
17
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
21
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a comfortable, car-like ride in a versatile truck package.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing a spotless reliability record above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Honda Ridgeline Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic 5-spd
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Pickup
EPA Combined MPG
17

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbag Inflator Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Frame Corrosion

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
13 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2012 Honda Ridgeline reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 13. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Honda Ridgeline for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Honda Ridgeline?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).

What engine is in the 2012 Honda Ridgeline?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2012 Honda Ridgeline use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline, transmission is Automatic 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline?▾

EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Honda Ridgeline?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2012 Honda Ridgeline?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Honda Ridgeline use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 5-spd.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Honda Ridgeline?▾

This model year has 13 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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