The Honda Ridgeline is one of the most dependable pickup trucks you can buy. Even so, some problematic model years could be a waste of money. If you’re looking for a used Honda Ridgeline you can trust, the following two model years are good places to start.

(Note: Regardless of a used car’s reliability score, always obtain a vehicle history report and have a trusted mechanic perform an inspection to uncover potential problems before purchasing. Also, prices may vary depending on trim level, mileage, overall condition, and location.)

The 2009 Honda Ridgeline is a reliable used truck for under $10,000 

J.D. Power gave this Honda Ridgeline model year an excellent reliability score of 86 out of 100. On CarComplaints, its most concerning issue is excessive brake pad noise. That can be remedied for around $50. Other owner-reported complaints are for much smaller issues, like clear coat peeling and a squeaky steering wheel. 

J.D. Power says people are paying $9,297 to $12,003 for used 2009 Honda Ridgeline models. The RT base model has many attractive features, including all-wheel drive and a 250-hp V6 engine. It’s only available in a comfortable Crew Cab configuration and features a five-foot cargo box. This Ridgeline can haul 1,550 pounds and tow 5,000 pounds.

In addition, the 2009 Honda Ridgeline features a standard trailer hitch and a dual-action tailgate with a lockable trunk under the load floor. The RTS trim adds convenience features like an auxiliary port and dual-zone automatic climate control. And the range-topping RTL could be optioned with navigation, while leather seats were standard. 

The 2010 Honda Ridgeline is also affordable and reliable

You’ll probably pay a little over $10,000 for a used 2010 Ridgeline because higher-specced models are selling for closer to $13,000. However, this model year is still worth considering. J.D. Power gave the 2010 Ridgeline a “great” quality and reliability score of 83. Its driving experience is nearly on par with the 2009 model, likely because it retained the same unibody construction from that year. All the same mechanical and interior features also carry over from 2009.

However, CarComplaints.com shows the 2010 model has had fewer problems than the 2009 model. Some owners have reported body integrity issues that caused water to leak into the cab. One driver said they vacuumed the excess moisture and didn’t seek repair services. And another owner claimed they paid $500 for a new brake pedal after 50,000 miles.

Beware of these Ridgeline model years

Some older Honda Ridgeline years are problematic. For instance, the 2008 model is infamous for peeling paint, hazardous electrical wiring problems, and premature climate control system failure. The 2007 Ridgeline is also notorious for poor paint quality and excessive oil consumption.

However, the 2006 Honda Ridgeline is arguably the worst year because it has a prominent engine cylinder problem. This issue often requires an engine rebuild that can cost over $5,000. This happens at around 107,000 miles, though some drivers have reported a blown cylinder as late as 181,000 miles.

2017 Honda Ridgeline owners might encounter electrical system annoyances, from numerous error screens to unexplained warning lights.

And the 2019 Ridgeline has had numerous recalls for severe issues such as faulty airbags and structural concerns. Affected models’ rearview cameras could break if the tailgate is opened and closed often.

The 2009 and 2010 Honda Ridgeline share some of these recalls. However, as long as the trucks have been serviced, there’s little reason to avoid buying them if all other areas check out.