The Good
The 2006 Ridgeline offers a smooth, car-like ride thanks to its unibody construction, appealing to comfort-focused buyers. Honda's reputation for reliability provides peace of mind. Its unique design and innovative features like the in-bed trunk spark emotional interest, while its practicality and decent fuel economy offer tangible value, satisfying practical needs.
The Bad
The 2006 Ridgeline's weaknesses include a lower towing capacity compared to traditional body-on-frame trucks, which limits its appeal for heavy-duty users. The styling is polarizing. Watch out for potential rust issues, particularly in areas with harsh winters and ensure the timing belt has been replaced according to schedule.
2006 Honda Ridgeline: Quick Overview
Here's a summary of the 2006 Honda Ridgeline's key specs:
- Engine Options: 3.5L V6 (all trims)
- Horsepower: 247 hp @ 5750 rpm
- Torque: 245 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 15 mpg
- Highway: 20 mpg
- Combined: 17 mpg (estimated)
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 8.3 seconds
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
- Payload Capacity: Approximately 1,550 lbs
- Trim-Level Features:
- RT (Base): Air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise control, AM/FM/CD audio system.
- RTS (Mid-Level): Adds alloy wheels, upgraded audio system, steering wheel audio controls, rear privacy glass, and body-colored exterior trim.
- RTL (Top-Level): Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, power driver's seat, sunroof, satellite navigation (optional), and premium audio system.
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard on all trims.
2006 Honda Ridgeline Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Honda |
| Model | Ridgeline |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | SAYAMA |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | J35A9 |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5 Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Honda Ridgeline Have?
Timing belt replacement is crucial at the recommended interval (around 105,000 miles) to prevent engine damage. Neglecting this can lead to costly repairs. Power steering hose leaks have also been reported. Some owners have experienced issues with the air conditioning system, including compressor failure.
Recalls for the 2006 Ridgeline included potential issues with the fuel tank and the shift cable. It's essential to check the vehicle's VIN with Honda to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability can be affected by the age of the vehicle; rubber components like hoses and seals may degrade over time, leading to leaks. Regularly scheduled maintenance and prompt attention to any warning signs are vital to preserving the Ridgeline's longevity.
How long will the 2006 Honda Ridgeline last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included front and side airbags, but lacked advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring, which were not common in 2006. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) was standard, enhancing stability and control.
Crash test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) were generally good. The Ridgeline earned "Good" ratings in frontal offset and side impact crash tests. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) ratings were also favorable, with 5-star ratings in several categories. Keep in mind that safety technology has significantly advanced since 2006, so while safe for its time, modern vehicles offer superior safety features.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2006 Honda Ridgeline Prices and Market Value
2006 Honda Ridgeline Cost of Ownership
2006 Honda Ridgeline Fuel Efficiency
2006 Honda Ridgeline Safety Rating
NHTSA
2006 Honda Ridgeline Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Honda Ridgeline Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
Alternatives to the 2006 Ridgeline include:
- Toyota Tacoma: Known for its off-road capability and strong resale value, making it a good alternative for those needing more ruggedness.
- Nissan Frontier: A more budget-friendly option, although not as refined as the Ridgeline.
- Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon: Offer higher towing capacities, but may not match the Ridgeline's reliability.
Ranks #74 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0β ) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0β ) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0β ) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0β ) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0β ) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0β ) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0β ) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0β ) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0β ) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0β ) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0β ) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0β ) |
| 74 | 2006 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0β ) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Honda Ridgeline a Good Pickup Truck?
D.Howard on May 22, 2024
Its 2024 I got my 2006 RTL in 2007 outside of the lightIts 2024 I got my 2006 RTL in 2007 outside of the light of the radio isn't illuminated anymore(who cares) this truck is still rolling strong with 197k miles on it! We have done some big boy truck stuff with it too and hauled trailers up mountains(no kidding) I see these trucks on the road and they're nice and probably stronger in many ways but this truck is like an old pair of comfortable boots at this point.They do the job and when its clean,it still looks awesome!,why do I need new ones? People offer to purchase it still.
Michael on May 26, 2023
Awesome truck with wonderful ride.I have owned mine since, it was the first one to show up on the lot, as I worked for the owner of the dealership I bought mine in April 2005 and am still driving it and loving it, the power, towing ability, and extreme fun I'm still enjoying everyday. I was even made to go off road into a deep ditch and the ground clearance and it's ability to maneuver got me through the ditch without ever touching the dirt or getting stuck. It's been an enormous pleasure to drive for the last 18 years and going.
Dmg on March 20, 2023
I like the ridgeline but...I've had some rather expensive oil leaks both from transmission and engine oil lines but regardless I guess that's normal maintenance for how old the vehicle is now. My only complaint is now that I've seen the decked system for truck beds it makes getting the ridgeline moot at this point other than the storage is built in and its a smooth ride. But I could really use more storage and upgradability is much better with a Ford, Dodge or chevy ex. The decked system I just mentioned.
BTkachuk on January 18, 2021
Best truck I ever had.Driving my 2006 Honda Ridgeline RTL almost 3 years already. Average 12000 miles a year. I used to had Chevrolet Silverado, s10 and Colorado, Tacoma... but I can't compare them to my Honda truck. Using my truck for work, for fun and camp and as a family car. Enjoying every single day. I will recommend my friends to buy them and they won't regret they make mistake... Best truck, smooth to drive, good mpg, a lot of space inside, in bed storage best idea ever.
J. S. on December 25, 2020
Love the interiorBeautiful Leather.. Heated seats. 4ΓΖβ 4 needed for winter. Very good value for a 2006 older Truck.. Can't Beat a Toyota or a Honda.. They keep GOING..
Jdog on September 29, 2020
Very unique 4 door sedan with open trunkThis car fits my needs for 5 passengers and a small bed to haul a few things and a 5000 lb towing capacity, and it comes with a lockable trunk under the bed of the trunk.
Bruno on April 12, 2020
No roomΓ°à ¸ΓΕΓ ΒΎI test drove one and found very quickly it's not for me. There is no foot room in it. The one thing I really liked was the hidden trunk in the bed. Wish other similar vehicles had the same.
Rocky on March 7, 2020
Best vehicle I've ownedExcellent in all aspects, exterior and interior whether it's just me or two couples on ski trips , road trips & hauling grandkids around .
Retired mechanic on February 29, 2020
Worst vehicle I've ever owned, a lemon.Although comfortable, the warning lights are frequent and usually nonsense designed to get the vehicle back to the dealership for overpriced unnecessary service. Honda has a penchant for using cheap hardware. The radiator had to be replaced because a ferrous metal washer rusted and caused the cooler line fitting to fail.
I love with my truck on December 31, 2019
My lovely truckEnamorada de mi truck! Le he retocado la Pintura, Tapizado los interiores y el liner Del roof inside! No muere, Es fuerte, comodo, economico! Mi Familia y yo estamos seguras en Ella!
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.