Towing FAQ

FAQ: Towing With Honda Pickup Trucks

With the right truck, you can enjoy making light work out of tough towing jobs. The Honda Ridgeline is a medium-duty pickup truck capable of hauling light to moderate loads. See one in the metal at Apple Honda in Riverhead, NY.

But before you stop by our dealership to shop for a model, it’s helpful to review some frequently asked questions about towing. This will help you understand what your truck is capable of and how you get the most out of it.

The Honda Ridgeline is a good option for light and moderate towing jobs. The Ridgeline can tow small trailers and vehicles with moderate cargo. The maximum towing capacity of the 2024 Ridgeline is 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Exceed this could damage the truck and lead to unsafe driving conditions on the road.

How much weight your truck can pull depends on various factors. First, consider the type of engine your truck has. For example, a V8 engine can tow more than a V6 or an inline 4 engine. The Ridgeline has a V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque.

Another element that affects towing capacity is the axle ratio of the truck. A truck with a higher ratio has a higher towing capacity. A lower ratio will equate to having a lower towing capacity.

The payload also plays a role in the truck’s towing capacity. Other factors to consider in towing include the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), gross combined weight rating (GCWR), and the trailer tongue weight.

The Honda Ridgeline is not the best option to tow large RVs and boats, nor can it tow heavy-duty equipment. If you have a small trailer or camper, the Ridgeline is up to the challenge. It comes standard with a Class III trailer hitch and a seven-pin connector.

When you are towing with your truck, you need to be particularly mindful of how you are driving. Some specific guidelines will keep you and your cargo safe as you are at the wheel. Put these tips into practice every time you tow.

• Regularly check the tire pressure and make sure the tires are properly inflated. Be aware of the tread depth and replace the tires when necessary. Rotating the tires about every 6,000 miles will help to reduce uneven wear. You should also inspect the brakes often, especially before you tow. Look for brake wear.
• Consult the owner’s manual of your truck to determine what the maximum towing capacity of your Ridgeline model is. You should never tow more weight than what the truck can handle. Know how much weight you are pulling and stay under the maximum limit.
• You will need to evenly pack the trailer or other vehicle you are towing. Secure the load to prevent shifting.
• Use safety chains and trailer brakes when you are towing a vehicle. Safety mirrors will also reduce the risks of accidents and issues while you are towing with your truck.
• Don’t make sudden maneuvers when you are towing. Avoid making sharp turns and stopping or accelerating suddenly.

The Honda Ridgeline is not equipped to tow heavy loads, including fifth-wheel and gooseneck trailers. The Ridgeline is suited for towing small travel trailers, fishing boat trailers, and small campers, such as hybrid and teardrop campers.

You won’t need a special license to tow with a Honda Ridgeline. Your Class C driver’s license will be enough. However, some roads have weight limits on how much cargo you can tow, so ensure compliance with these special considerations.

Find Your Tow-Ready Vehicle in Riverhead, NY

You can learn more about towing terms when you shop at Apple Honda in Riverhead, NY. Our knowledgeable sales team is ready to help you get into a new Honda Ridgeline so you can take care of your important towing tasks. We will also answer any questions you have about towing and what your new truck can handle. Stop by the dealership today and get into a tow-ready vehicle you can enjoy for work and play.