2011 Honda Ridgeline: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict
Shopping for a used 2011 Honda Ridgeline? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 39 complaints, with Airbag Malfunctions as the top reported area.
2011 Honda Ridgeline Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA official fuel economy rating for the 2011 Honda Ridgeline.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions.
2011 Honda Ridgeline Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not Rated14.3% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
14.3% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2011 Honda Ridgeline has 39 owner complaints, 2 crash-related complaints, and 11 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Airbag Malfunctions. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Honda
- Model
- Ridgeline
- Model year
- 2011
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 39
- Crash-related complaints
- 2
- Safety recall campaigns
- 11
- Top reported component
- Airbag Malfunctions
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 17
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 15 / 20
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Most Common 2011 Honda Ridgeline Problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Airbag Malfunctions
Structural Problems
Uncategorized Issues
Complaint patterns center on Airbag Malfunctions, Structural Problems, Uncategorized Issues. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Should You Buy a Used 2011 Honda Ridgeline?
The 2011 Honda Ridgeline shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
What to Check Before Buying a Used 2011 Honda Ridgeline
Inspection Focus
- Verify all open recalls related to airbag malfunctions at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for airbag system and structural repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the airbag system and suspension before purchase.
- Check for any uncategorized issues reported by previous owners.
Before You Close the Deal
- Verify all open recalls related to airbag malfunctions at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for airbag system and structural repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the airbag system and suspension before purchase.
- Check for any uncategorized issues reported by previous owners.
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2011 Honda Ridgeline, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Complaints for the 2011 Honda Ridgeline are heavily concentrated in airbag malfunctions, which account for the majority of reports. Structural problems and uncategorized issues are also noted, though with far fewer complaints. The data is based on a single model year and a low number of total complaints, limiting generalizability.
- Airbag malfunctions dominate complaints for the 2011 model year.
- Structural problems are the second most reported component.
- Only 2 crash-related complaints were recorded out of 39 total.
- Airbag Malfunctions
- Structural Problems
- Uncategorized Issues
All 2011 Honda Ridgeline Complaints by Category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2011 Honda Ridgeline. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airbag Malfunctions | 27 | 2 | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
Real Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2011 Honda Ridgeline. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
I have repeatedly been in touch with dealerships and Honda USA about a paint defect. I have had this corroborated with paint and body shops and Honda. Refuses to do anything, even though they say it's a known issue for that year. And model.
The contact owns a 2011 Honda Ridgeline. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, there was a loud squealing sound coming from the rear end of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over and upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact became awa…
The contact owns a 2011 Honda Ridgeline. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that the rear driver's side tire was at an angle. The contact also stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the rear end of the vehicle was rocking back and …
leak coming from roof drivers side, stained seat and top ceiling. strip needs to be checked underneath. not sure exactly where the leak is coming from
New strut assemblies (complete struts, assembled by manufacturer) were professionally installed on 01/03/2023. During a road test, clunking on the front right of the vehicle. The vehicle was returned to the shop to investigate the issue. The issue was determined to be the strut…
The contact owns a 2011 Honda Ridgeline. The contact stated that during rainy weather conditions, there would be rain exposure to the dashboard. The contact noticed that in the winter months the dashboard would have frost on it the same as the outside. The vehicle seemed as thoug…
Since January 1st, 2022, the GPS system has become erratic with irregular display of routes. Proof: auto-clock is not working anymore.
The back passenger door opens by itself while I'm driving. The heater mode never changes when I switch it to defrost, face, feet.
IN THE LAST TWO YEARS I HAVE TO CHANGE FIVE (5) TIMES A/C BLOWER MOTOR DUE TO MALFUNCTION. THE HONDA SERVICE DEPARTMENT DOES NOT KNOW WHAT IS CAUSING THE PROBLEM. WHEN I START THE CAR A TURN ON THE A/C SOMETIMES DOES NOT START THE BLOWER SOI HAVE TO DRIVE THE CAR AND AFTER A CO…
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HONDA RIDGELINE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT…
TAKATA RECALL MY SISTER WAS DRIVING A 2011 HONDA RIDGELINE ON I-85 ON MAY 2, 2015 WHEN THE VEHICLE STARTED OFF THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ROAD SHE CORRECTED THIS AND THE TRUCK OVERTURNED. TWO OTHERS IN THE TRUCK WERE ABLE TO GET TO GET OUT BUT MY SISTER HAD TO BE CUT FROM THE VEHICLE…
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HONDA RIDGELINE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE …
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HONDA RIDGELINE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RE…
I WAS NOTIFIED IN APRIL OF THE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT DEVICE RECALL BY MAIL WITH INDICATION THAT MY LOCAL DEALER WOULD CONTACT ME. I CONTACTED PERFECTION HONDA IN ALBUQUERQUE, 898-0000, IN EARLY JULY AFTER NO ONE CALLED ME AND THEY SAID THEY WOULD HAVE TO ORDER IT BUT WERE HAVING TROU…
SPECIFICALLY, IN SOME VEHICLES, THE DRIVER'S FRONT AIRBAG INFLATOR COULD PRODUCE EXCESSIVE INTERNAL PRESSURE UPON DEPLOYMENT. IF AN AFFECTED AIRBAG DEPLOYS, THE INCREASED INTERNAL PRESSURE MAY CAUSE THE INFLATOR TO RUPTURE (BREAK APART) AND DEPLOY ABNORMALLY. I GOT THIS RECALL IN…
TAKATA RECALL I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM HONDA LAST MARCH ALERTING ME TO THE AIRBAG RECALL AND THAT DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG COULD KILL ME AND THAT A REMEDY WOULD BE AVAILABLE IN THE SUMMER OF 2016. SUMMER IS ABOUT OVER AND I'VE YET TO RECEIVE NOTICE TO BRING MY VEHICLE IN TO A …
HONDA IS REPLACING ONLY MY DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG AND NOT THE PASSENGER SIDE. HONDA IS NOW SAYING ITS SAFE TO DRIVE AS LONG AS NO ONE SITS IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE. THIS IS NOT AN OPTION FOR MY FAMILY. THE RENTAL CAR HONDA WAS PROVIDING SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE OFFERED TO ME UNTI…
TAKATA RECALL INAPPROPRIATE AND UNACCEPTABLE ADVISE PROVIDED BY HOEHN HONDA DEALERSHIP CARLSBAD CALIFORNIA. AUGUST 9, 2016, PHONE CONVERSATION WITH HOEHN HONDA REGARDING AIRBAG RECALL. 1.HOEHN TOOK VEHICLE INFO AND VIN NUMBER. 2.HOEHN ADVISED US THAT THE CAR WAS RE…
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HONDA RIDGELINE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR T…
2011 HONDA RIDGELINE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEALERSHIP OVER-CHARGES FOR WARRANTY/AIRBAG RECALL REPAIRS. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED ACCORDING TO THE INVOICE, THE AIR BAG WAS REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. HOWEVER, THEY OVERCHARGED FOR MINOR TO COMPENSATE FOR THE AIR BAG. *JB
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2011 Honda Ridgeline.
2011 Honda Ridgeline Recalls
11 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2011 Honda Ridgeline. 11 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
2011 Honda Ridgeline Buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2011 Honda Ridgeline reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 39 owner complaints, 2 crash-related complaints, and 11 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2011 Honda Ridgeline shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2011 Honda Ridgeline?▾
#1: Airbag Malfunctions (27 complaints). #2: Structural Problems (6 complaints). #3: Uncategorized Issues (5 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2011 Honda Ridgeline?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2011 Honda Ridgeline?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2011 Honda Ridgeline, NHTSA complaints include 2 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 39 total complaints. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2011 Honda Ridgeline have any recalls?▾
Yes. 11 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2011 Honda Ridgeline. A major recall area is AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE. 11 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2011 Honda Ridgeline?▾
The 2011 Honda Ridgeline shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Airbag Malfunctions during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Honda Ridgeline reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2011 Honda Ridgeline based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Check the Exact Vehicle History Before You Buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.