MODEL
Honda Ridgeline Safety
NHTSA safety across every Honda Ridgeline model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Honda Ridgeline we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 95 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 75. 37 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Honda Ridgeline is a unibody pickup truck aimed at buyers who want everyday practicality without the rough edges of a traditional body-on-frame hauler. Positioned squarely in the midsize truck segment, it targets commuters, families, and light-duty adventurers who value a car-like ride alongside genuine truck utility. From model years 2019 through 2025, it carries Honda's reputation for thoughtful engineering into a competitive and growing class.
The 2024 Honda Ridgeline achieves an Exceptional safety rating, with a Safety Index score of 95 out of 100. This model year represents the pinnacle of safety performance for the Ridgeline across its 2019 to 2025 iterations. It earned a 5 out of 5 stars in both frontal and side crash tests from NHTSA. Rollover protection, however, received a 4 out of 5 star rating, consistent with the elevated rollover risk inherent to trucks. Despite its strong crash-test performance, the Ridgeline's overall safety record across these model years presents areas for concern. The model has been subject to 37 recalls, a high number demanding careful review by potential owners. Furthermore, 824 owner complaints have been filed, including 18 alleged crashes, 8 alleged fires, and 16 alleged injuries. While these are unverified allegations, the reported incidence of fires warrants particular scrutiny. The Ridgeline's safety band rating has varied from Exceptional to Average across its model years, underscoring the necessity of year-specific research. The 2024 model year stands out for its superior safety performance. For any model year, buyers should consult the NHTSA recall database for open campaigns prior to purchase.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Ridgeline for its refined, car-like driving character and clever storage solutions, including its in-bed trunk. Most see it as the right choice for buyers who want truck versatility without sacrificing daily comfort. Critics sometimes note it feels less capable than body-on-frame rivals for serious towing or off-road use, positioning it as a lifestyle truck rather than a workhorse.
- The 2024 Ridgeline earned the highest NHTSA Safety Index in this generation at 95 out of 100, placing it in the Exceptional band. If maximizing crash-test performance is your priority, that model year is the clear standout.
- Thirty-seven recalls across the 2019 to 2025 span is a high total for any model. Before purchasing any specific example, shoppers should run the VIN through the NHTSA recall lookup tool to confirm all open campaigns have been addressed by a dealer.
- Owner-reported complaints include 8 alleged fires across the covered years. While these are unverified allegations and not confirmed defects, the pattern is worth monitoring. Check whether any related recall or technical service bulletin exists for the specific model year you are considering.
- The rollover rating of 4 out of 5 stars is solid but not perfect, and it reflects the physics of any truck body style. Buyers who frequently carry passengers or drive on winding roads should factor this in and ensure their chosen model year has Honda Sensing driver-assistance features fully equipped.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Honda Ridgeline with 11 recalls.