If you’re looking at midsize trucks, you’ve probably asked: Is The Ridgeline good for towing? The Honda Ridgeline often stands out from the crowd with its unique unibody design, leading to some confusion about its real capabilities. Let’s clear that up right away. This guide will give you the straight facts on what the Ridgeline can pull, how it compares, and what you need to know to tow safely and confidently.
Is The Ridgeline Good for Towing
The simple answer is yes, the Honda Ridgeline is good for towing many common loads. It has a maximum tow rating of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it capable for a wide range of recreational and utility tasks. However, it’s not a heavy-duty hauler. Understanding its strengths and limits is key to determining if it fits your specific needs.
Official Towing Capacity and Key Specs
Every modern Ridgeline is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs. This requires the factory towing package, which is standard on higher trims or available as an add-on. Here are the critical specifications you need to know:
- Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
- Max Payload Capacity: Approximately 1,580 lbs (varies by trim and options)
- Standard Engine: 3.5L V6 with 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Standard Tow Package Includes: Heavy-duty radiator, transmission cooler, and a 4- and 7-pin wiring harness connector.
Remember, your payload includes everything you add to the truck—passengers, gear in the bed, and the weight of the hitch itself. The tongue weight of your trailer also eats into payload. Always check your specific door jamb sticker for your truck’s exact ratings, as options can change them.
What Can You Actually Tow with 5,000 Pounds?
A 5,000-pound capacity is quite practical. It covers a lot of common towing scenarios that many truck buyers encounter. Here are some typical examples of what a Ridgeline can handle:
- Mid-size boats and personal watercraft trailers
- Pop-up, teardrop, and many mid-size travel trailers (check dry vs. loaded weight carefully)
- Utility trailers loaded with landscaping supplies, ATVs, or motorcycles
- Smaller horse or livestock trailers (for a single animal)
- Compact construction equipment like a small skid-steer
The key is to always weigh your loaded trailer. The “dry weight” listed on a camper, for example, is almost never the weight you’ll actually be towing once you add water, propane, batteries, and your gear.
The Ridgeline’s Unique Advantages for Towing
The Ridgeline’s platform gives it some benefits that traditional body-on-frame trucks don’t have. These features can make the towing experience more pleasant and stable.
Independent Rear Suspension (IRS)
Unlike most trucks that use a solid rear axle, the Ridgeline has independent rear suspension. This provides a smoother, more car-like ride when you’re not towing. When you are towing, it helps keep the tires in better contact with the road on uneven surfaces, improving stability and comfort.
Integrated In-Bed Trunk
The lockable, waterproof trunk in the bed is a huge asset for towing. It’s a perfect, secure place to store your hitch ball, tow chains, wiring connectors, and other gear. It keeps your cab clutter-free and your equipment protected from the weather.
Excellent Integrated Trailer Brake Controller
On trims with the towing package, the electronic trailer brake controller is built right into the dashboard. There’s no need for an aftermarket unit cluttering up your interior. You can easily adjust the gain with a knob on the center stack, which is much more convenient.
Important Limitations and Considerations
While capable, the Ridgeline has clear boundaries. It’s crucial to respect these for safety and to avoid damaging your vehicle.
- Not for Heavy Loads: It cannot tow large fifth-wheel campers, big horse trailers, or substantial construction equipment that exceed 5,000 lbs.
- Unibody Design: The unibody is strong but is not designed for the extreme twisting forces or constant max-tow workloads that a heavy-duty, frame-based truck might endure.
- Tongue Weight Limit: The maximum tongue weight is typically 500 lbs. Proper load distribution in your trailer is non-negotiable.
If your regular towing needs are near or at the 5,000 lb mark, you might want to consider a truck with a higher capacity to provide a greater safety margin. The Ridgeline excels at light-to-moderate, occasional towing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Ridgeline to Tow
Follow these steps everytime you hitch up to ensure a safe trip.
- Verify Your Equipment: Ensure your trim has the factory towing package. Check your owner’s manual for confirmation.
- Choose the Right Hitch: Use a Class III receiver hitch that’s rated for 5,000 lbs. The factory hitch is ideal.
- Install a Weight Distribution System (if needed): For trailers over about 3,500 lbs, a weight-distribution hitch with sway control is highly recommended. It helps level the truck and manage trailer sway.
- Connect All Wiring: Plug in the 7-pin connector to power trailer brakes and lights. Test all lights—brake, turn, and running lights—before you leave.
- Set Your Brake Controller Gain: Adjust the built-in controller according to the trailer’s weight. You should feel the trailer helping to slow you down without its wheels locking up.
- Perform a Final Safety Check: Confirm the hitch is locked, safety chains are crossed under the tongue, the trailer brake is working, and all cargo is secured.
Driving Tips While Towing with the Ridgeline
Towing changes the dynamics of any vehicle. Here’s how to drive smart with a trailer behind your Ridgeline.
- Allow More Space: Your stopping distance will increase significantly. Leave at least twice the normal following distance between you and the vehicle ahead.
- Use Tow/Haul Mode: This mode adjusts transmission shift points to reduce gear hunting and provides engine braking on descents. Always use it when towing.
- Take Turns Wider: Your trailer’s wheels will track inside your truck’s path. Swing wide on right turns to avoid clipping curbs.
- Manage Sway: If the trailer begins to sway, do not slam on the brakes. Instead, gently press the accelerator or use the manual override on the brake controller (if equipped). Slowing down usually makes sway worse.
- Watch Your Temps: On long uphill climbs, keep an eye on the engine coolant temperature gauge. The extra cooling systems in the towing package are designed to handle this.
How It Compares to Other Midsize Trucks
Context is important. Here’s how the Ridgeline’s 5,000-lb rating stacks up against common competitors:
- Toyota Tacoma: Max tow range is 6,400-6,800 lbs (V6 models), but often with a lower payload capacity.
- Ford Ranger: Can tow up to 7,500 lbs, making it the class leader for conventional midsize trucks.
- Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon: Up to 7,700 lbs with the diesel engine.
- Nissan Frontier: Rated for up to 6,720 lbs.
While others boast higher numbers, the Ridgeline counters with a more refined driving experience, better interior comfort, and its unique utility features. For someone who tows occasionally but uses the truck as a daily driver, these trade-offs can be worth it.
Real-World Owner Experiences
Many Ridgeline owners report high satisfaction with towing. They often praise the truck’s stability and ease of use. Common feedback includes the seamless integration of the brake controller and the convenience of the in-bed trunk for towing gear. Most note that as long as you stay within the limits and use a good weight-distribution hitch for larger trailers, the Ridgeline performs predictably and comfortably. It’s not meant for constant heavy towing, but for weekend projects and trips, it gets the job done well.
Maintenance Needs for a Towing Vehicle
Towing puts extra stress on your engine, transmission, brakes, and cooling systems. Adhering to a stricter maintenance schedule is vital.
- Fluid Changes: Consider changing engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant more frequently than the normal schedule. Severe service intervals in your manual apply when towing.
- Brake Inspections: Have your brake pads, rotors, and fluid checked before and after the towing season. The fluid can absorb moisture and degrade faster under high heat.
- Tire Care: Maintain proper tire pressure (check when cold) and inspect tread for uneven wear. Your tires support the entire load.
- Regular Inspections: Frequently check the hitch, wiring harness, and trailer connectors for wear, corrosion, or damage.
FAQ: Honda Ridgeline Towing Questions
What is the towing capacity of a Honda Ridgeline?
All modern Honda Ridgelines have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with the factory towing package.
Do I need a special hitch for the Ridgeline?
You should use a Class III receiver hitch rated for the weight. The Genuine Honda accessory hitch is designed to fit perfectly and is highly recommended.
Can the Ridgeline tow a travel trailer?
Yes, it can tow many lightweight and mid-size travel trailers. You must ensure the loaded trailer weight is under 5,000 lbs and the tongue weight is under 500 lbs. A weight-distribution hitch is almost always required for campers.
Does the Ridgeline have a built-in brake controller?
Yes, models equipped with the towing package have an integrated electronic trailer brake controller in the dashboard. It’s a major convenience feature.
What happens if I exceed the towing capacity?
Exceeding the capacity is dangerous. It can lead to premature wear, transmission failure, overheated brakes, loss of control, and void your warranty. It also may invalidate your insurance in the event of an accident.
Is the Ridgeline good for towing a boat?
Absolutely. Towing a mid-size boat is one of the Ridgeline’s strong suits. The independent suspension handles ramp surfaces well, and the 5,000-lb capacity covers many popular boat-and-trailer combinations.
In conclusion, the Honda Ridgeline is a competent and user-friendly tow vehicle for light to moderate tasks. Its 5,000-pound capacity is sufficient for a wide array of common trailers, from boats to campers to utility loads. Its real strengths lie in its easy-to-use integrated systems, smooth ride, and clever storage—features that enhance the towing experience. By understanding its limits, preparing properly, and driving attentively, you can confidently use your Ridgeline for your towing needs. Just always prioritize safety by never exceeding the stated ratings and ensuring your load is balanced and secure.