Towing FAQ in Falls Church, VA

FAQ: Towing With Honda Pickup Trucks

Not just any truck will do when you have cargo to pull and vehicles to tow. For light and moderate hauling duties, the Honda Ridgeline is an excellent choice. The latest model has a respectable towing capacity and the power you need to handle challenging tasks.

If you are unfamiliar with towing terms and the Ridgeline’s capabilities, come to Bill Page Honda in Falls Church, VA. We’ll answer your questions and help you bring home this capable new truck.

What is the towing capacity of Honda pickup trucks?

The towing capacity of the Honda Ridgeline is 5,000 pounds. This total includes not only the vehicle or trailer you are towing but the weight of the cargo inside.

What factors affect a Honda truck's towing capacity?

It’s important to understand what impacts how much a truck can tow. You should first consider the axle ratio. The greater the axle ratio, the heavier loads the truck can tow. Conversely, smaller axle ratios will result in a lower towing capacity.

The engine is also a significant factor. In the new Honda Ridgeline, you’ll find a capable V6 engine that can put out 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Trucks with larger V8 engines will have a greater towing capacity.

The size of the truck will also determine how much weight the vehicle can pull. You’ll want to consider the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), gross combined weight rating (GCWR), and the trailer tongue weight as well.

Lastly, how much weight the truck can carry in its bed, known as the payload capacity, will help to determine the ability of it to tow.

Can I tow a trailer with a Honda pickup truck?

Honda Ridgeline models are ideal for towing small trailers with moderate cargo.

What safety precautions should I take when towing with a Honda pickup truck?

The following guidelines will keep you and your load safe and help to ensure that your towing task is successful. Follow these tips anytime you use our Ridgeline for towing in Falls Church, VA, or anywhere else.

• Before you tow with your Ridgeline, thoroughly inspect the vehicle to ensure it is in good condition. In particular, the brakes need to be in good order. Check the thickness of the brake pads and replace them if necessary. The tires need to be properly inflated and have plenty of treads to provide the necessary traction for the truck to drive and tow safely. In addition, make sure the lights on the truck and vehicle you are pulling have working lights and signals.
• Never exceed the towing capacity of your truck. Know how much weight you are pulling and stay under the maximum capacity. You could damage the drivetrain of your truck if you tow more than the vehicle can handle.
• Safety chains and towing brakes can enhance your safety and secure the load. It can also be helpful to install and use towing mirrors, which provide better visibility.
• Safe driving is vital when you tow, so always slow down when you are driving up and down hills. Don’t follow the preceding vehicle too closely, either. When you are taking tight corners or turning, exercise caution. Don’t make sudden stops when possible, and avoid sudden maneuvers.

Can I tow a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer with a Honda pickup truck?

The Ridgeline is not the best option for towing large trailers, such as fifth-wheel trailers and gooseneck trailers. It can, however, handle smaller trailers and lighter loads.

Do I need a special license to tow with a Honda pickup truck?

Although towing cargo with hazardous materials may require special permits, you should only need your Class C driver’s license to tow with your Ridgeline truck. However, some roads have weight limits, so your load and truck should never exceed that limit.

Find Your Tow-Ready Vehicle in Falls Church, VA

The team at Bill Page Honda is eager to get you into a new Ridgeline. The latest model is capable of towing medium-size loads and handling your moderate hauling duties.

Before you purchase a truck, talk to us about towing terms and other important issues so you can be safe and take care of your towing chores without any problems. Stop by our dealership in Falls Church, VA, today.