Honda Element
Honda Element questions and answers
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Q: How long will a Honda Element run for?
I am looking to buy a 2003 Honda Element that has 91k miles on it and was wondering how long this car will run for without giving me trouble. Is it worth it?
A: Keep in mind that 2003 was the first year for the Element. Even though it's based on the CRV and Honda generally has a solid reputation, things can go wrong. For instance, make sure you have heat out of all four dash vents, otherwise you're facing a $1200 repair for a plugged heater core. For all things Element, check the forum at http://www.elementownersclub.com If you get a 404 error message, just click the "forum" button at the top of the page.
Q: Recommendations for a dog barrier in a 2008 Honda Element or other small SUVS?
I have a two year old lab that travels with me during the summer (to family reunions and trips). She has out grown her travel kennel and I'm looking to buy one of those barrier type things for my Honda Element. Does anybody have any recommendations on ones they have used ? Websites would be helpful! Thanks!
A: Check the forums at http://www.elementownersclub.com. There's on on "The Truth About Cats & Dogs" that may have some information from enthusiatic Element/dog owners.
Note: For some reason the link sends you to an old EOC screen. Just click on "The Boards" at the top of the page to get to current threads.
Q: How were the Honda Element and Scions successful while the Pontiac Aztex was not?
Pontiac Aztec, Honda Element, Scion XB and others are really ugly vehicles, but how is Aztec a failure? It's practical and everything and has the same shocking styling that the other SUVs offer. What happened?
A: The reason the Aztec was a failure is threefold:
1. It was (slightly) before its time from a design standpoint and was perceived as ugly by the consumers of vehicles in its price range. People who thought it was cool couldn't afford it.
2. It was underpowered and got unremarkable MPG compared to other more traditional SUV's in the same price range.
3. It was plagued with a few nagging mechanical and electrical problems. (Gotta love that quality UAW craftsmanship.)
Q: Other cars like the Honda Element? Good for work and play?
I'm trying to pinpoint cars similar to the Honda Element. I need something of a compact crossover/suv, and versatile like the element- good for work and play.
Any suggestions?
Thanks!
A: I recently switched from an Element to a Gen2 xB and love it. Like the Element, it's unique, big on the inside, small on the outside, fun to drive and a lot of bang for the buck. With the xB, you also get a quieter ride, better gas mileage and less buffeting on windy days. It has traction control and stability control, but is not available in AWD.
Q: Are there any games including a Honda Element?
I happen to like Honda Elements and was curious if there is a video game out there including one. Thanks!
A: YES! I LOVE HONDA!Go to Honda's website and go to the Element site.There should be a game where the Elements go and interact with other animals because they are eco-friendly
Q: Could I camp out in a Honda Element?
Could anyone with a Honda Element let me know if you think it would be possible to sleep in it comfortably during a long road trip? Do you think there's enough room that I could I take the rear seats out and put an airbed? This question may sound odd, but I'm just wondering if it could double sort of double as a tent. Thanks!
A: I am a salesman for Honda. Yes, you can definitely fit an air bed just don't go while with he side. However, also remember that the seats can be set to be a bed. Also remember that there is an optional tent that can be purchase. It is not a full tent, but it cover the back. If you go to any Honda dealership you can ask for an accessory book and you'll be able to see the picture of the tent. I have tried the seats in bed mode and i have to admit that they are comfortable enough.
Q: How to bleed a Honda Element cooling system?
Replaced the thermostat,coolant and flushed the system. Honda dealer said there may be an air pocket(no heat) how do I bleed the air pocket out?
A: There are two ways to bleed the cooling system Essentially, to bleed the cooling system you need to get the top of the radiator above the level of the top of the heater core that is located under the right side of the instrument panel.
technicians who work on cooling systems have a special adapter that is basically a combined radiator cap and a funnel that is put on the radiator. then the funnel is filled with coolant so that the level of the coolant is above the top of the heater core. Then the engine is run until the thermostat opens and the air bleeds out.
If you don't have the set-up to bleed the system this way then the only other alternative is to raise the front of the vehicle up so that the top of the radiator is above the heater core. (You can get an idea of how high that is by following the heater hoses to the engine wall on the passenger side of the vehicle; the top of the heater core will be a bit above the upper heater hose). I've seen the drive up ramps work well enough to raise the radiator up. I've also seen people drive the front wheels up a curb (be careful if you try that). Or, if at all possible, find a really steep hill (that works best).
when you get the vehicle properly positioned then you can allow the engine to cool so that you can remove the radiator cap. Leaving the car parked for an hour would be the right thing to do. then fill the radiator with coolant and run the engine until the level drops, then refill.
that will get the air out of the system
hope that helps
Q: What can I do to get more preformance out of my honda element?
03 Element ex. 5 speed manual, front wheel drive, 56,000 miles and still runs strong but I would like to tune it up a bit.
What could be done for around a thousand dollars?
If I get good suggestions and whatnot I will post pics and results of said improvements... thank you in advance!
A: Cold air intake, cat back exhaust, header, downpipe and underdrive pulleys. All of that should be around $1000 and you might gain 15 horsepower. maybe. It really isn't worth it. You are going to spend large amounts of money for minimal at best gains.
Q: Will my Honda Element run on common European fuel? Will the difference in octane be harmful?
I'm thinking about shipping my Element out with me, instead of selling it. What do I need to know?
A: There are Element owners who have gone before you, so it shouldn't be a big issue. There is a European section in the "Local Chapters" forum of the EOC. Check the threads at http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=&f=64
and if you don't find anything, post a new question. The EOC is a very friendly and informative site.
There is also a thread titled "The Dreaded French DRIRE Auto Inspectors" that covers one owner's ordeal getting a 2003 Element registered in France (it's an older post and doesn't show up on the European Owner's forum). It might be helpful if that's your destination.
Q: What's the average price of a used Honda Element that's two or three years old?
Any additional information about newer Honda Element models?
A: Hard to say without knowing which model it is, 2WD or AWD, mileage, overall condition and options. Prices could range from $12K to $18K depending on these variables as well as what part of the country you're in. Check the Kelly Bluebook site for estimates based on a more detailed description of what you're looking for.
Q: Honda Element-How can I bypass the door chime w/the key in the ignition, and the door open??
When stopped, and listening to the radio, the drivers door must remained closed so the key in ignition chime will not beep. How can I disconnect (bypass) the door chime.
A: Here's a link to the Element Owners Club with a couple of suggestions that ought to help...http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1744
Q: Does the Honda Element SC come with a sun roof?
I am really interested in getting one & when I went to the Honda website the features say they do, but I looked closer & I'm not sure because it's not pictured. Please help? :]
Does your brother like is SC?
A: The sunroof only comes in the AWD version of the LX and EX models and it's over the BACK seat, not the front seat. Some Element owners have aftermarket sunroofs installed.
Go to http://automobiles.honda.com/element/ select the model you're interested in and and look under Exterior Details.
Q: How can I get the smell of smoke out of my used one year old Honda Element?
The whole interior is waterproof and I am clueless as to what I should do. Any help on getting my car to smell better than a stale cheap hotel room?
A: if the interior is truely waterproof roll down the windows and go through the automatic carwash. ps put the video on u tube it will be great
Q: How can I install a snowplow on my honda element?
I keep looking online but you can only buy snowplows for the car models, not by size. I have all wheel drive and all the power needed to push it...
A: you need to ask a honda dealer and don't try to do it yourself, you cold ruin your car.
Q: What is a cool Personalized plate Idea for my Honda Element?
I thought about "I Pinch"
Does anyone out there understand that reference?
Thank you.
Don't be a hater, please.
A: "catch me"