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2021 Honda Ridgeline Report

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

Updated Jun 6, 2026·Ryan Davis
2021 Honda Ridgeline Report

Overall Score

8.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent reliability, with no reported recalls or complaints to NHTSA.
  • Top-tier safety ratings, including 5-star overall, frontal, and side crash performance.
  • All-wheel drive is standard, enhancing traction in various conditions.
  • The 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission provides smooth power delivery.
See the 4 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Honda Ridgeline

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline stands out in the mid-size truck segment for its car-like ride and practical features. Unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks, it utilizes a unibody construction, which contributes to its comfortable handling and refined cabin experience. This makes it a compelling option for those who need truck utility but prefer SUV-like comfort.

Critical Failure Risk

Excellent reliability, with no reported recalls or complaints to NHTSA.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.6/ 10

Practicality

3.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a comfortable and practical truck for light-duty hauling and everyday driving.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Heavy-duty commercial users requiring maximum towing and payload capacity.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Honda Ridgeline Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S9)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Pickup
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

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 - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $80 - $120

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)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Honda Ridgeline reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline is 9.6/10. Reliability score is 9.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Honda Ridgeline for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline is 8.3/10. Overall score is 8.3/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 9.3/10. Practicality 3.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Honda Ridgeline?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600.

What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline?▾

Base MSRP is $42,420.

What engine is in the 2021 Honda Ridgeline?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2021 Honda Ridgeline use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline, transmission is Automatic (S9). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Honda Ridgeline?▾

14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Honda Ridgeline?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Honda Ridgeline?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Honda Ridgeline use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S9).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Honda Ridgeline?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Toyota Tacoma and 2021 Ford Ranger.

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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