Vehicle Guide

2014 Honda Ridgeline Problems, Reliability & Owner's Guide

Common problems with the 2014 Honda Ridgeline, reliability ratings, maintenance tips, and owner reviews. Get your complete owner's guide.

Overview

The 2014 Honda Ridgeline is a midsize pickup truck designed for drivers who want truck utility with SUV-like comfort and daily drivability. It’s part of the first-generation Ridgeline (2006–2014), known for its unibody construction, smooth ride, and clever storage features rather than maximum towing or heavy-duty hauling. Ideal for homeowners, outdoor enthusiasts, and commuters, it fits buyers who need occasional truck capability without giving up refinement. In the used-truck market, it often competes with traditional midsize trucks by offering a unique blend of practicality, reliability, and interior comfort.

Key Features

- 3.5L V6 engine (J35) with 250 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission for strong everyday performance. - Available AWD (Honda’s VTM-4) for improved traction in rain, snow, and light off-road conditions; FWD models were also offered. - Dual-action tailgate that opens down or swings to the side, making loading bulky items easier in tight spaces. - In-bed trunk with a lockable, weather-sealed storage compartment—one of the Ridgeline’s signature features for tools, gear, and valuables. - Comfortable crew-cab interior with car-like ride quality and useful rear-seat space, making it a practical family truck for long drives.

Common Issues & Reliability

Many shoppers looking up 2014 Honda Ridgeline reliability will find it generally rated as a dependable truck, but there are a few 2014 Honda Ridgeline problems and common issues that show up repeatedly in owner reports. - RTS (Rear Tailgate Support) cable and tailgate hardware wear: Some owners report tailgate support cables or related hardware loosening or wearing over time, especially on trucks that see frequent loading. Symptoms can include a tailgate that feels uneven or doesn’t open/close as smoothly. This can appear anywhere from 60,000–120,000 miles depending on use. - Brake wear and pulsation: Premature brake pad/rotor wear or rotor warping can lead to vibration during braking. This is commonly noticed between 30,000–70,000 miles, particularly if the truck sees frequent city driving, towing, or heavy loads. - Power steering pump seepage/whine: The power steering system can develop seepage at seals or a whining noise, especially in colder climates or as fluid ages. Some owners notice noise around 80,000–150,000 miles; early fluid service can help. - Suspension and steering wear (bushings, links, mounts): Like many vehicles in this age range, worn sway bar links, control arm bushings, or strut mounts can cause clunks over bumps and looser steering feel, often emerging after 100,000 miles.

Frequently Asked Questions

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