Honda Ridgeline Towing Guide: The "Comfort" Truck

The Golden Rule: 5,000 lbs (AWD)

Unlike other trucks with confusing charts, the Ridgeline is simple.

• AWD Models (5,000 lbs): Every Honda Ridgeline equipped with AWD (which is standard on all new 2021+ models) is rated for exactly 5,000 lbs.

• Older 2WD Models (3,500 lbs): If you are driving an older (pre-2021) front-wheel-drive model, your capacity is capped at 3,500 lbs.

The "Payload Trap" (Critical for Ridgeline)

This is where Ridgeline owners get into trouble.

• The Math: The Ridgeline has a respectable payload of roughly 1,500 lbs. This number must carry You + Passengers + Gear + Trailer Tongue Weight.

• The Reality: A 4,500 lb trailer has a tongue weight of ~550 lbs. If you add a family of four (700 lbs) and bikes in the bed (100 lbs), you are dangerously close to your max axle weight.

• The Fix: We recommend staying under 4,000 lbs for your trailer weight. This leaves you a safety buffer for passengers and cargo, keeping that famous Honda ride quality intact.

Critical Equipment: The Missing Controller

• The Surprise: Despite coming with a standard Class III hitch receiver on newer models, the Ridgeline does not have a factory Integrated Brake Controller on the dashboard.

• The Solution: To tow a trailer over 3,000 lbs legally, you must install one.

  • Wired: There is a factory plug under the dash. We recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty, which installs with a tiny knob on your dash for a factory look.

  • Wireless: The Curt Echo plugs into your 7-pin connector and uses your smartphone to control the brakes—perfect for lease vehicles.

Generational Shift: 6-Speed vs. 9-Speed

• 2020 – Present (9-Speed): These models feature a robust ZF 9-speed automatic transmission that handles towing heat much better than older models. They typically come "tow ready" with heavy-duty cooling.

• 2017 – 2019 (6-Speed): If you tow near the limit with these years, keep an eye on transmission temps. While capable, the 6-speed can get hot on long climbs. Ensure your specific truck has the auxiliary transmission cooler if you plan to tow in the mountains.

What Can I Tow With a Ridgeline?

• Teardrops & "Eggs": The Ridgeline is the perfect match for fiberglass trailers like the Casita, Scamp, or nuCamp T@B 400. Their aerodynamic shape slips through the wind, putting less strain on the V6 engine.

• Single-Axle Lightweights: Models like the Geo Pro G19FD or Winnebago Micro Minnie are ideal. They offer hard sides and full bathrooms but weigh in the 3,000–3,800 lb range, keeping you safe.

• Pop-Up Campers: With zero wind resistance, you can tow almost any pop-up camper (like a Rockwood Freedom) without even feeling it behind the truck.

Ready to Roam?

Your Ridgeline is the ultimate road-trip machine.

• Shop Unibody-Safe RVs: Filter our inventory for Travel Trailers Under 4,000 lbs to find the sweet spot for your truck.

• Get Equipped: Need a brake controller installed? Our Service Team can install a Redarc Tow-Pro in about an hour.

• Value Your Trade: Ready to upgrade from a tent? Value Your Trade today.