2018 Honda Ridgeline
2018 Honda Ridgeline
Overview
The 2018 Honda Ridgeline is a mid-size pickup truck known for its unibody construction, comfortable ride, and versatile bed. It offers a blend of SUV-like handling with truck utility, making it a popular choice for those who need more capability than a car but don’t require a traditional body-on-frame truck. Reliability for the 2018 model year is generally strong, reflecting Honda’s reputation for building durable vehicles. Owners often praise its fuel efficiency for its class, refined interior, and innovative features like the in-bed trunk. While most owners report a positive experience, like any vehicle, there are specific areas that have seen occasional reports of issues.
Engine
3.5L V6 (J35Y2)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
9-Speed Automatic
Hesitation or Jerking
- Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional hesitation or jerky shifts, particularly at lower speeds or during downshifts. This can sometimes be related to software calibration.
- Solution: Software updates for the transmission control module (TCM) are often the first step. In more severe cases, internal transmission inspection and repair may be necessary.
- Cost: $150 - $500 (for software update/diagnosis), $1000+ (for internal repairs)
Suspension
Independent Front and Rear
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing or Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: Occasional reports of the infotainment screen freezing, becoming unresponsive, or rebooting unexpectedly. This can affect navigation, audio, and connectivity features.
- Solution: Software updates for the infotainment system are often available. In some cases, a full system reset or replacement of the unit may be required.
- Cost: $100 - $300 (for software/diagnosis), $500 - $1500 (for unit replacement)
Battery Drain
Premature Battery Discharge
- Symptoms: A few owners have noted the battery draining faster than expected, sometimes leading to starting issues. This can be caused by parasitic draw from various electrical components.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the parasitic draw is crucial. This may involve checking modules, accessories, or the alternator. Battery replacement might be needed if it’s old or faulty.
- Cost: $150 - $400 (for diagnosis and parasitic draw repair), $200 - $400 (for battery replacement)
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Upholstery and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2018 Honda Ridgeline is a highly reliable vehicle with a strong overall performance. The powertrain, including the V6 engine and the 6-speed automatic transmission, is exceptionally robust. The 9-speed automatic transmission, while generally good, has seen some isolated reports of shifting anomalies that can often be resolved with software updates. Electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system and occasional battery drain, are the most frequently cited, though not widespread. These are typically manageable with diagnostics and software fixes. The suspension, exterior, and interior components have proven durable. For potential buyers, focusing on vehicles with well-maintained electrical systems and ensuring any 9-speed transmission software is up-to-date would be prudent.