2020 Honda Ridgeline

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline is a mid-size pickup truck known for its comfortable ride, car-like handling, and unique features like its in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate. All 2020 Ridgelines come standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the Ridgeline’s practicality and versatility. However, some find its towing capacity less than some competitors and its styling less traditionally “truck-like.”

Engine

3.5L V6

• Variable Timing Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the variable timing solenoid, which can cause a check engine light and rough running.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty variable timing solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced harsh shifting, particularly between lower gears, and hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, a transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (Software update), $4,000+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the rear suspension tends to sag, especially when towing or carrying heavy loads. This can lead to a reduced ride height and compromised handling.
  • Solution: Upgrading the rear springs or installing aftermarket air suspension assist bags.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system (particularly units with navigation) has been known to freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates from the dealership. In some cases, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software update), $800+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially in vehicles with many electronic accessories.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw and repair of faulty components. Ensure proper battery maintenance and consider upgrading to a higher-capacity battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Sliding Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the rear sliding window mechanism, including failure to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or entire sliding window assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattles
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of rattles and squeaks emanating from the dashboard area, particularly on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the rattle. This may involve adding padding or tightening loose fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline, while generally reliable, has some common issues. The most concerning are the potential transmission problems (harsh shifting) and the infotainment system glitches, which can be costly to fix. Minor electrical issues like battery drain and interior rattles, while less severe, can be annoying. Overall, the Ridgeline has fewer issues than some of its competitors, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems.