Honda · Known Issues

2020 Honda Ridgeline Problems: 6 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2020 model year · 669+ owner reports · Updated June 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 669+ owner reports, the 2020 Honda Ridgeline has 6 documented known issues, with 4 rated critical. The most serious are Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858) ($0-$1,200 repair), Brake Master Cylinder Separation Recall (NHTSA 23V-458) ($0-$1,500 repair), 10-Speed Transmission - Rough Shifting and Programming Defect ($200-$6,000 repair) and Honda Sensing - Collision Mitigation False Braking ($0-$600 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858) with 180 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $200 to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 6 Known Issues

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Community Reported

180 owners

On the 2017-2020 Honda Ridgeline, nHTSA recall 23V-858 affects 2.5+ million Honda and Acura vehicles including 2017-2020 Ridgelines. The Denso-branded fuel pump impeller was improperly molded with low-density material that deforms over time and interferes with the fuel pump body. Pump becomes inoperative, causing difficulty starting, engine stalling while driving (safety hazard), or complete no-start. This is an expansion of earlier recalls 20V-314 and 21V-215. Remedy parts were delayed causing extended wait times until Fall 2024.

This issue also affects: Acura MDX, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Alfa Romeo Stelvio

Common Symptoms

Engine warning light illuminated
Difficulty starting engine
Engine stalling while driving (safety hazard)
Sudden loss of power or acceleration
Engine cranks but won't start
P0087 code (Fuel Rail/System Pressure Too Low)

How to Fix

Check Honda recall website with VIN at owners.honda.com. Contact Honda customer service: 1-888-234-2138. Schedule dealer appointment for FREE fuel pump module replacement. Confirm parts are in stock before scheduling (critical - parts were severely delayed). Keep fuel tank above 1/2 full as workaround until repair. Out-of-pocket replacement: $600-$1,200. Under recall: FREE.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 180+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteCheck recall status with VIN immediately - this is a critical safety issue that can cause stalling while driving
TipKeep fuel tank above 1/2 full while waiting for recall repair - reduces stalling risk by maintaining fuel pressure
TipParts availability was severely delayed through Fall 2024 - call dealership to confirm parts in stock before scheduling appointment
NoteIf engine stalls while driving, safely pull over immediately and call for tow truck - do not make unnecessary trips
TipOwners who paid out-of-pocket may be eligible for reimbursement per recall plan - keep all receipts
UpgradeDelphi fuel pump module — OE-quality direct replacement (Delphi Fuel Pump Module)
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UpgradeBosch fuel pump — reliable OEM alternative (Bosch Fuel Pump)
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Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,200

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180+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence180 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

124 owners

On the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline, the tie rod fastener connecting the brake booster and brake master cylinder may have been improperly assembled during manufacturing. Loose or missing nuts allow the brake master cylinder to separate from the brake booster assembly, causing complete loss of brake function - extreme safety hazard and crash risk. NHTSA reports 124,077 potentially affected vehicles with approximately 1% exhibiting the defect. Issue first discovered December 2020; first brake failure complaint received December 2022.

Common Symptoms

Soft or spongy brake pedal
Brake pedal goes to floor with no resistance
Increased stopping distance
Brake warning light illuminated
Brake failure (catastrophic - complete loss of braking ability)

How to Fix

Contact Honda customer service: 1-888-234-2138 IMMEDIATELY. Check recall status with VIN at owners.honda.com. Schedule emergency dealer appointment for FREE brake booster assembly inspection/repair. Dealers will inspect tie-rod studs and replace brake booster if necessary at no charge. If soft brake pedal present: DO NOT continue driving - call for tow truck. Out-of-pocket brake booster replacement: $800-$1,500. Under recall: FREE.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 124+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteDO NOT IGNORE soft or mushy brake pedal - this is life-threatening safety issue that can cause accidents
NoteCheck recall status with VIN IMMEDIATELY - this affects brake safety and approximately 124,000 vehicles
NoteIf experiencing brake issues, stop driving immediately and have vehicle towed to dealer - brake failure is catastrophic
TipIf brake pedal feels different than normal, have inspected before problem worsens - early detection prevents accidents
TipSoft brakes often dismissed as normal wear - get dealer inspection if any doubt about brake pedal feel
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Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,500

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124+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence124 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

95 owners

On the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline, the 10-speed automatic transmission (replaced 6-speed from 2017-2019) exhibits rough and delayed shifting, loud noises during gear changes, sudden harsh accelerations/decelerations, jerking at all speeds, and sudden loss of power. Class action lawsuit alleges programming defect where the transmission control module doesn't communicate properly with powertrain control module, causing gear shifting to be mistimed. Common complaint: transmission slip followed by hard shift from 2nd to 3rd gear occurring nearly every time under harder acceleration, hill climbing, or with weight in bed.

Common Symptoms

Rough or delayed shifting between gears
Transmission jerking or hesitation
Loud clunking or banging during shifts
Sudden loss of power or acceleration
Transmission slip followed by hard shift
Check engine light with transmission codes
Issues worse when under load (towing, bed weight, hills)

How to Fix

Perform transmission software update at Honda dealer (may help but may not fully resolve). Transmission fluid change using Honda ATF (specific type for 10-speed) every 30,000 miles: fluid cost $40-$80 + labor $150-$250 = total $200-$330. Check for transmission recall status with VIN. Full transmission replacement if programming update and fluid service don't resolve: $4,000-$6,000. Class action lawsuit may provide compensation.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 95+ owners who fixed this issue

TipGet proper diagnosis before assuming catastrophic transmission failure - shift problems often correctable with software updates
TipFollow aggressive fluid change schedule (every 30k miles) rather than Honda's 100k mile recommendation - extends transmission life
TipDealers can perform transmission software update - this has resolved issues in some cases at no cost under warranty
UpgradeUse ONLY Honda-approved ATF for 10-speed transmission - wrong fluid type worsens shifting and causes damage
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NoteDo not ignore rough shifting - continued driving can damage transmission clutches and lead to $4,000+ replacement
TipDocument all transmission issues and shifting complaints - supports warranty claim or class action lawsuit participation

Typical repair cost:$200 - $6,000

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95+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence95 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

85 owners

On the 2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline, honda Sensing collision mitigation braking system (CMBS) gives false alarms and phantom braking, particularly during left-hand turns through intersections with opposite traffic, and on windy roads. The forward collision warning also fails to alert in actual collision scenarios. NHTSA investigation EA21-005 covers 2017-2022 models (focus on Accord/CR-V but Ridgeline also affected). ODI received 1,294 consumer complaints regarding unexpected AEB activation, with data indicating 47 crashes and 93 injuries potentially linked to phantom braking. Honda attributed some issues to radar positioning.

Common Symptoms

Sudden automatic braking when no obstacle present (phantom braking)
False collision warnings during turns
Braking triggered on windy roads
System brakes when turning left through intersection
Forward collision warning fails when actual collision imminent
Inconsistent system behavior
Unexpected deceleration in traffic

How to Fix

Contact Honda dealer for radar re-calibration/repositioning (available free under warranty). Honda software updates address some phantom braking scenarios. Radar sensors may need replacement if defective: $400-$600. Full Honda Sensing system recalibration: $200-$400 labor. Some owners disable system via infotainment menu if persistent issues (reduces safety features).

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 85+ owners who fixed this issue

TipMany owners reported phantom braking on Ridgeline forums - request radar re-calibration at dealer as this has resolved many reported cases
TipDon't dismiss false braking as driver error - issue is real and documented in 1,294+ NHTSA complaints with 47 crashes
TipDocument phantom braking incidents with location, weather, and driving conditions for warranty claim support
TipSoftware updates released - ensure dealer updates your vehicle to latest Honda Sensing version to reduce phantom braking
NoteWindy weather and left turns through intersections are known trigger scenarios - be prepared for unexpected braking
TipNHTSA investigation EA21-005 ongoing - stay updated on future TSBs or recalls that may be issued
UpgradeBlueDriver OBD-II scanner — reads ABS, SRS, and engine codes (BlueDriver Bluetooth OBD-II Scanner)
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Typical repair cost:$0 - $600

Research This Issue

85+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence85 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

110 owners

On the 2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline, center console infotainment touchscreen goes completely black or becomes unresponsive on 2017-2023 models. System may enter infinite shutdown loop draining battery overnight. Software glitches across all model years and loose fuse connections cause complete audio/navigation system failure. Class action lawsuit (2019) alleged multiple defects including crashes, freezes, failure to start/shut down, and failure to connect to smart devices. Honda issued multiple TSBs starting November 2017, but plaintiffs claimed Honda unable to fix defects across multiple service attempts.

Common Symptoms

Center touchscreen completely black with no display
Touchscreen frozen or unresponsive to touch
Infinite reboot loop while parked
Loss of radio, navigation, and climate controls
Battery drain when vehicle is off
System crash during use
Wireless connectivity failures

How to Fix

Check fuse box for loose fuse controlling infotainment - reseat if loose (common fix). Perform hard reset: hold power button 10 seconds or disconnect battery 10 minutes. Visit Honda dealer for software update (free under warranty) - TSB updates available. Persistent issues may need complete infotainment unit replacement: factory replacement $800-$1,500 + labor $200-$400 = total $1,000-$1,900. Aftermarket head unit option: $400-$800.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 110+ owners who fixed this issue

TipCheck for loose fuse before assuming unit failure - very common and free fix that solves many black screen issues
TipHard reset sometimes resolves temporary glitches - try before dealer appointment (hold power 10 seconds or disconnect battery)
TipRequest Honda dealer TSB software update - free under warranty and resolves many issues without hardware replacement
TipDocument all system failures with photos/videos for warranty support - helps escalate case to Honda corporate if needed
NoteIf screen drains battery overnight, disconnect infotainment fuse until dealer repair to avoid being stranded with dead battery
TipMultiple service attempts by dealer common - may require escalation to Honda corporate for persistent issues beyond dealer capability
UpgradeHigh-performance AGM battery with excellent cold cranking amps and deep cycle capability (Optima RedTop AGM Battery)
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UpgradeOEM-quality replacement battery with reliable performance (ACDelco Professional AGM Battery)
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UpgradeAutomatic battery maintainer to prevent parasitic drain issues during storage (Battery Tender Junior 12V Battery Charger Maintainer)
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UpgradeProfessional OBD-II diagnostic scanner for reading infotainment and body module codes (BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool)
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UpgradeAutomotive relay replacement set for common relay failures (Bosch Automotive Relay 5-Pin 12V)
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UpgradeDigital multimeter for diagnosing fuse, relay, and module electrical faults (Innova Digital Multimeter)
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Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,900

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110+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence110 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

75 owners

On the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline, nHTSA investigation EA25-004 covers 2.2 million Honda vehicles including 2020-2023 Ridgeline for idle stop and go (ISG) system failure to restart engine after automatic shutdown at stop lights. Vehicle may fail to automatically restart when stop ends, requiring driver to manually restart by shifting to Park and pressing ENGINE START/STOP button. Honda released TSBs 23-008, 23-009, 23-010 with two-stage remedy: Stage 1 involves PCM software update; Stage 2 (if software fails) involves starter assembly or relay replacement with 10-year unlimited mileage warranty extension. Despite repairs, NHTSA continues receiving complaints of failures even on vehicles with TSB applied.

Common Symptoms

Engine fails to automatically restart when traffic resumes
Requires manual restart by pressing ENGINE START/STOP button
Intermittent failures (sometimes restarts, sometimes doesn't)
Check engine light appearing with starting system codes

How to Fix

Stage 1: Visit Honda dealer for PCM software update (free under warranty) - TSB 23-008, 23-009, 23-010 references. Labor: 1-2 hours. Stage 2 (if software doesn't resolve): Replacement of starter motor or related relays. Starter replacement: $300-$500 + labor. Relay replacement: $50-$150 + labor. Free if within extended warranty (10 years unlimited miles per TSB). Out-of-warranty cost: $350-$800.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 75+ owners who fixed this issue

TipGet TSB updates completed as soon as possible - Stage 1 software update solves many cases at no cost
TipDocument all ISG failures with date, time, temperature, and traffic conditions for warranty escalation if issues continue
TipDisable ISG manually if experiencing repeated failures - use infotainment settings (workaround, not fix)
TipKeep battery in excellent condition - weak battery may exacerbate ISG restart issues
TipReport continued failures to Honda corporate after TSB completion - NHTSA investigation ongoing and additional recalls may be forthcoming
NoteDon't ignore issue - inability to restart at traffic light creates traffic safety hazard and intersection blocking
UpgradeBluetooth OBD-II scanner for reading engine codes and monitoring live data (BlueDriver Bluetooth OBD2 Diagnostic Scan Tool)
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UpgradeQuality synthetic oil and filter combo for engine maintenance (Mobil 1 Full Synthetic Oil and Filter Bundle)
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Typical repair cost:$0 - $800

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75+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence75 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Honda Ridgeline problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 669+ owner reports, the 2020-2020 Honda Ridgeline has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858), Brake Master Cylinder Separation Recall (NHTSA 23V-458), 10-Speed Transmission - Rough Shifting and Programming Defect. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Honda Ridgeline reliable?

The 2020-2020 Honda Ridgeline has 6 known issues documented across 669+ owner reports. 4 issues are rated critical: Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858) and Brake Master Cylinder Separation Recall (NHTSA 23V-458) and 10-Speed Transmission - Rough Shifting and Programming Defect and Honda Sensing - Collision Mitigation False Braking. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Honda Ridgeline problems?

Repair costs for known Honda Ridgeline issues range from $0 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858), typically costs $0-$1,200 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2017-2020 Honda Ridgeline Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858)?

NHTSA recall 23V-858 affects 2.5+ million Honda and Acura vehicles including 2017-2020 Ridgelines. The Denso-branded fuel pump impeller was improperly molded with low-density material that deforms over time and interferes with the fuel pump body. Pump becomes inoperative, causing… Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: high.

What is the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline Brake Master Cylinder Separation Recall (NHTSA 23V-458)?

The tie rod fastener connecting the brake booster and brake master cylinder may have been improperly assembled during manufacturing. Loose or missing nuts allow the brake master cylinder to separate from the brake booster assembly, causing complete loss of brake function - extrem… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline 10-Speed Transmission - Rough Shifting and Programming Defect?

The 10-speed automatic transmission (replaced 6-speed from 2017-2019) exhibits rough and delayed shifting, loud noises during gear changes, sudden harsh accelerations/decelerations, jerking at all speeds, and sudden loss of power. Class action lawsuit alleges programming defect w… Repairs typically run $200-$6,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline Honda Sensing - Collision Mitigation False Braking?

Honda Sensing collision mitigation braking system (CMBS) gives false alarms and phantom braking, particularly during left-hand turns through intersections with opposite traffic, and on windy roads. The forward collision warning also fails to alert in actual collision scenarios. N… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: high.

What is the 2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline Infotainment Touchscreen Black Screen and System Failure?

Center console infotainment touchscreen goes completely black or becomes unresponsive on 2017-2023 models. System may enter infinite shutdown loop draining battery overnight. Software glitches across all model years and loose fuse connections cause complete audio/navigation syste… Repairs typically run $0-$1,900. Severity: medium.

What is the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline Idle Stop & Go (ISG) - Failure to Restart Investigation?

NHTSA investigation EA25-004 covers 2.2 million Honda vehicles including 2020-2023 Ridgeline for idle stop and go (ISG) system failure to restart engine after automatic shutdown at stop lights. Vehicle may fail to automatically restart when stop ends, requiring driver to manually… Repairs typically run $0-$800. Severity: medium.

All 6 Known Issues

2017-2020 Honda Ridgeline: Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline: Brake Master Cylinder Separation Recall (NHTSA 23V-458)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline: 10-Speed Transmission - Rough Shifting and Programming Defect#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline: Honda Sensing - Collision Mitigation False Braking#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline: Infotainment Touchscreen Black Screen and System Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline: Idle Stop & Go (ISG) - Failure to Restart Investigation#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Honda Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Honda Ridgeline problems?

Is the Honda Ridgeline reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Honda Ridgeline problems?

What is the 2017-2020 Honda Ridgeline Fuel Pump Failure Recall (NHTSA 23V-858)?

What is the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline Brake Master Cylinder Separation Recall (NHTSA 23V-458)?

What is the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline 10-Speed Transmission - Rough Shifting and Programming Defect?

What is the 2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline Honda Sensing - Collision Mitigation False Braking?

What is the 2017-2023 Honda Ridgeline Infotainment Touchscreen Black Screen and System Failure?

What is the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline Idle Stop & Go (ISG) - Failure to Restart Investigation?