I own a 2004 EX. I'm the original owner. My Element has 335,000 miles. I can drive 320 miles on a tank of gas before the gas light comes on. This car is amazing, the exhaust tailpipe has no carbon or any residue in it. You can rub your finger the the inside of the pipe and nothing comes off on your finger. I change the oil every 8k, and exchange the transmission fluid every 35,000 miles. I did the required major tune up at 105,000 ie new spark plugs, I still have those same spark plugs in that were installed at 105,000 miles. I did put all new struts in at 275,000. This is a Florida car, no rust whatsoever. I'm on my 3rd set of brake pads. The original pads I made it to135,000 the 2nd set made it to 286,000 so I'm on my 3rd set, all OEM. I will never sell this vehicle. I bought the car when i was 44, I'm now 61. In Florida the car becomes an Antique after 30 years, so it'll be an antique in 13 years. I think the car will make it no problem.
My 2005 Honda Element EX has reached 190,000 miles. Hoping to reach 300,000 miles without any major expensive repairs. I change oil/filter every 3,000 miles.
I'm in Florida also. I have an 05 Element and just reached 200k miles. I'm the 2nd owner. I baby this car. I may do a 3in lift and bigger tires. I have absolutely zero rust. I've driven all over the country and never had a problem. My local Honda offered $2500 for it hahahahaha....No thank you lol...good luck to you .
I’m a diesel mechanic 30 yrs now i could buy and own whatever car I like and i drive a Toaster i just drove her from tampa Florida to bar Harbor Maine 1700 miles straight threw 24 hrs and she has 194k
I can fully agree with that. I've had a ton of cars come and go, the Element will never leave though. Bar Harbor is amazing btw. One of my favorite places ever!
I have a Honda element 2004. I’ve got it with 270,000 miles on it. I now have 353,000. Original transmission and motor still going strong. This view is amazing! It’s like he had my exact car! Everything he described it has happened to mine. The struts, with the frozen bolt- The brake caliper seizing up. The straight up and down windshield catching every rock in sight, replaced it once already has cracks. The road noise drowns out beautifully with the speakers! Etc. etc. just like you said keep up with the maintenance, change the oil all the time! I’m expecting 400,000 easy! Update: Made it to 427,000 but wrecked it the other night:( Had to reluctantly total it out. Just put new front struts, AC pump and v tech solenoid. Same motor same transmission…. It was going to 500,000 easy Some guy in a Chevy truck towing lawn equipment in a big trailer ran a red light. Element took it like a champ. Airbags went off. I was Unhurt.
The fuel light will turn on when it reaches 3 gallons left. Add that with the 12 and a half fuel up and its pretty much at the rated 15.9 gallon tank. Cheers! New Element owner here love these videos where I can hear element owners and their experience with them!
Absolutely! And very correct on that pesky Low Fuel light 😄. I have to remind my wife that there's still quite a bit left in the tank. I've had one hair splitting experience with my fuel light and the backwoods of Missouri. I thought for sure I'd be out of gas in the middle of no where. Made it to a gas station, put right at 15 gallons in 😄
@@DashnCars I do a ton of in City driving with my element I put maybe a hundred miles a day on my car. When that gas light comes on I usually try to figure I have about 40 more miles before I need to GPS the nearest gas station. LOL
Still in love at 155k miles with my 03 Galapagos Green EX I bought new off the boat in March of that year. It spend most of the year on pavement, but summers we hit lots of mountain roads with gravel and rougher surfaces. Replaced the starter last week, the struts all around in 2019, and the windshield in 2019 after the crack widened on a rock chip I picked up in 2003 when the car was just two weeks old. Absolutely the best vehicle for trailhead camping for early morning starts and all around utility in a small body-but not to small, I'm 6'3" and still have 6 inches of headroom as well as backseat leg room when I drive. I'll be doing those rear sway bar bushings in a couple of months, this car never dies.
So good to hear!! I still have my 2005 Element, bought new in early 2006 & I love it!! My windshield has been cracked for almost 13 years, a cosmetic defect as far as I’m concerned. There was a class-action lawsuit more than 10 years ago claiming that the shape of the windshield was defective. I found that no auto glass repairer would replace it unless they got a new one through Honda (wouldn’t use a salvaged one) so there’s no incentive to replace it. It would just crack again. It’s the first new car that I’ve ever bought and I hope that it goes on and on and on until it becomes obsolete because of electric cars. Incidentally, my first Element, same model/same year was totaled and I suffered only a slight nosebleed from the airbag. The design prevented the front end from crushing into the front seat.
My major complaint about my 03 Element is that it just won't die! My wife is really picky about having to have a new car when we get her a car; it's about knowing the history of the car from day one so she's confident it's been taken care of. She's no mechanic, so I get it. The understanding we've had over the years is that she's going to run it into ground before we move onto her next vehicle. Well, it's been 18 years, and we're approaching 300k miles and aside from a bunch of minor acceptable things that I haven't gotten around to it won't die. For context it's an Alaska car. While we've always kept up with routine maintenance, but as you can imagine, we haven't exactly been able to baby her. Great video, and from my experience, great car! 👍
I have an '03 Element bought it new, now has 278,000 miles.You are right about the suspension--pretty much had it all replaced in the last 5 years, but it's worth it. Runs like new. I have been very good with regular maintenance and it's paying off! And I am about to get the third windshield installed.
Bought new 2005 EX 4x4 5 spd 200,000 miles, I’ve owned a Sequoia, Tundra, Pathfinder, Subaru and I’d go as far to say my Element is the best of them all, greatest snowboard/mt bike car. Years ago I was going to give my E to my son for his first car, but I just couldn’t give up my baby.
That's a great story! I love hearing when people have had a ton of other rigs but still love the Element the best. I completely understand that sentiment. 😍
Thrilled (new05/5spd awd169k)shifting cable's binding and would pop out of gear in a tight turn to the left,butter smooth now ea shift. Geared low Hoping for a decent unique vehicle. Thanks
I have a 2008 Element SC with over 150K miles and road noise is minimal. No rattles. No bushings worn. Only problem I have had was hitting a deer at 35 mph requiring the front grille, bumper, headlights, radiator and condenser replacement. No sheet metal was hurt. I get 24mpg on the average. I'm 6' and it is easy to get in and have 5" of headroom. The radio is super and what I like is the utility of it. I have two large golden retrievers and I take them to the lake or vet and you can't beat the back end cargo capacity. I fold up the back seats and another great feature is the tailgate/lift gate feature. You can sit on the tailgate or use it as a table when camping. I heard they may be coming out with a new model soon. Hope they do. These things will last 275K miles easily with minimal care.
I'm the original owner of an '04 (Galapagos Green Metallic) EX and the passenger seat has always had an armrest. 125,000 miles and going strong. Mine's done a lot of camping. And it is a great motorcycle hauler. Keeping it forever. Nice video, thanks for sharing your insights and enthusiasm.
The Galapagos green was my second choice! Love that color as well. That's pretty good miles for an 04! And thank you for the kind words, I'm also keeping mine forever.
@@DashnCars More brilliant ideas by idiot savant CEOs with far more money than brains. Either that, or they are purposely malicious in their intentions, as well as extremely greedy in cutting corners. The idiots who designed the Buick Encore did the same thing. No passenger armrest and no center console. Unacceptable. As far as the Element goes, I think you can get an aftermarket center console for the Element SC model and it will fit the other models. It also makes a great armrest for the passenger. That's what I would do. I'm looking at an 04 EX but it already has both armrests. I haven't bought it yet, going to see it tommorrow. It looks identical to your 2003 with 169K miles. I found a 2011 solid silver EX with no moonroof and only 60K miles 2 hours in the opposite direction. I had to choose one or the other because these are flying off the lots around here and I can't look at both in one day. If I go with the 2004 and dont like it for some reason, the 2011 will be sold before I can get to it. Or vice versa. People are crazy around here about anything AWD or 4x4 and under a certain price that has a normal old school engine and transmission. Like the Element, the Nissan Xterra 4x4 and the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4 doors. Everytime I find something online that I want to check out......POOF....GONE before I can formulate a thought about it. Nobody around here wants an $800 a month truck payment on a 50 grand truck or SUV and they don't want the crappy underpowered junk they are putting out with garbage transmissions either. So it's like trying to win a lottery to find something decent. Very low supply, insanely high demand. I've begun to wonder if people are camping out in front of dealerships just waiting for the same thing I'm looking for because it's utterly bizarre how fast they get to it as soon as I find it online. Even if it's a new listing and just posted!!
I have a 2003 AWD that pa bought new, I got it when he died, thanks Pa! Still under 50,000 miles, all its needed was a coil, oil changes and I had the valves adjusted last year just to check. I have an appointment to replace bushings next week...
MY HOTELEMENT 2005 Burnt Orange Bought mine used with 40.000 k mi in 2007 250.000 miles and no complaints I agree with you 90% , including the speeding tickets except my air intake is factory and I get 28 mi per gallon I'm not a mechanic but I'm good at tinkering so I have replaced lower control arm loaded( it means , it comes with all the bushings ready to rock) twice for a fraction of what the stealer quoted me rear sway bar rubber bushings twice struts all the way around One starter couple of serpentine belts Akebono rotors and pads ( incredible durability, when I bought my Element need it brakes , I'm on my second set ) I was off road about 2 yrs ago and I hit my gas tank and ruined my gas gauge so I just go by mileage I safely get 330 miles per tank one of this days I'll venture into the tank and check the sending unit I work at a ski area and this AWD traction system is awesome, I will say is my favorite feature My HOTELEMENT is going to reach 300.000 k with no problem will I buy another one ? YESSSS!! I LOVE MY TOASTER
I own a 2004 same car to a T iv'e owned it 14 years and it is still my daily driver to charlotte north Carolina 7 days a week, 60 miles a day and 300 miles a week. 250,360 miles and still running great oh yeah this to is my second E , my first was a 2005, taken out by a man who ran a stop light 5:30 in the morning, on my way to work............love my Element
My 07 is rust free... desert life, no snow, just tones of in city driving thru dirt, gravel and dust... her suspension and brakes are shot but other than a few minor part swaps, she is AMAZING 👏🥰
just got a 07 exp in orange with 136k miles. the 3 gallon left when light is on is definitely a fact. with the 5sp manual, this car definitely needs the freeway gear out of the tsx. I daily drive this frosty mug and get a spot on 23 mpg. I have the bushing rattle and the left caliper hang up, please take care of your E.LEE. these MINI TRUCKS are a rare breed and not deserving of the criticism they get. my neighbor who is a cattleman loves the dash shifter and tailgate. GREAT VIDEO AND REVIEW! keep up the good work good sir!
Thanks brother! People just don't understand how good these rigs are until they own one. It sounds almost crazy, but the Element really is one of the most versatile vehicles ever made. There is a good reason that I'm a huge car guy and I've never considered getting rid of my Element for over a decade now. I'm glad you love yours too, I just ordered a few goodies for mine, I'll be making some more Element content very soon!
Just bought an '03 element with 162k miles (same color too). Such a great video for me as a new owner for insight and inspiration. Looking forward to this car for the long haul!
We love ours. Excellent for the kids BUT only a 4 seater. It has SO MUCH room though. Easy to throw up the seats in the back, and watch a movie at the drive in with both kids. Our element didn’t have any rust issues (ny/pa). It is kinda finicky about oil. We had some kind of computer issue when suddenly it wouldn’t want to start up and there would be a weird ticking to the right of the driver. If it does this, a temporary fix is to give it a good hit just above the speedometer. Even with any issues we have had it’s the absolute best vehicle we’ve ever had.
Fully agreed! I have to hit my dash to get my gauges on every once in a while 😄. The kids in the back are the best, they have room for days plus if they spill something? No biggie! Just wipe it up.
I also own a 2003 EX which I enjoy very much. I am the 2nd owner; bought it in 2005 with 28k and now has 420k miles. Road noise is no problem with me. I let it warm up first thing in morning, change oil myself every 5k with synthetic, and don’t run the hell out of it. I’ve had the alternator, starter and water pump replaced but for that mileage and 17 years old would any other vehicle do better? Good in snow, great sound system, and by far the most practical and versatile vehicle I’ve ever owned. Cheers!
I am so glad to hear that your 03 has 420K! I am so sad at the thought of having to get another car. My 03 has 289K. I do keep the oil changed. Have done some work on it, heavy duty suspension last year bec used for carrying my sample books for work. Also hit some curbs and had to replace 2 axels. Spent 5k last yrs on thise and brakes, shocks windshield. Just can't give it up! So fun to drive and so adorable. Thinking of getting another one eventually.
@@lynetteheitman5118 Glad to hear of your response on your Element. Mine has now progressed to over 423k. I cleaned the idle air control valve recently as it started surging. Honda dealer wanted $400 to replace it. I bought a $15 gasket, followed a Utube video and cleaned it myself. Still shooting for 1/2 million miles on mine. Happy New Year!
Great vid, I bought my 03 element about 2 years ago. I feel like I've done nothing but repair it. It was passed around in auction for years but never up kept more than what was needed to keep it sellable. I think I've caught up to the point of having fun with it. replaced everything from starters, to clutch to calipers, valve alignments, tires, ball joints.. I've lost count of everything LOL
😄 😄 Sounds like it! Yeah like most early 00 cars they'll need love now just about everywhere. Once it's finally on YOUR schedule then it's fun time! Until the next thing comes up 😄
Enjoyed the video. I also have an 03 E. Got mine 8 years ago with 56K and just hit 75K this week. Have changed the starter and did an alternator last week. Just normal maintenance otherwise. Great car
Much appreciated! I wanted to cover so the bases for any potential buyer or long time owner. Nothing compares to just owning one for a decade. I have a wealth of seat time with my Element!
Bought one of the first Elements brand new in 2003.....I had Chow dogs, so it was perfect for hauling. I also had a summer job with my town watering the hanging baskets of the downtown where I lived.....it carried the water tank with ease, and when I popped out the back glass sunroof....and could reach the baskets easily with the watering wand.....sometimes for fun Id drive around with the watering wand out of the roof.....it looked like I had a shower in the back of the Element....lol.....My only complaint was the gas mileage....It had plenty of power, and of course it was a box, so I guess I shouldnt have been too surprised, but that was the only major complaint I heard from fellow Element owners....I drove it for 11 years, and I never experienced any of these problems. I only had to replace the starter motor....not surprising after 8 years of driving....aside from the fabric of the drivers side seat breaking down...(it wouldnt have if I had bothered to put my OEM seatcovers on after having the car detailed)....this vehicle was bulletproof...it had hard use....and it never let me down ever.....loved going round domestic 4X4 trucks in the wintertime that had skidded off the road......best vehicle Ive ever owned.....
I bought my brand new 2004 Honda Element in the winter and the windshield was cracked from a rock on the highway within a month...but I love my Element and still have it (replaced the windshield). It'll be 17 years in February! I'm probably going to keep my Element forever. I'd even buy another one if I could find one!!! What tires would you recommend? I'm just a daily driver and in Florida (so no snow).
That's incredible! 17 years! As far as a good driver tire, the best advice with tires is you get what you paid for. Just find something mid tier with good reviews. I don't usually have a preference because I have so many different cars. Just whatever suits the car at the time.
I have a black 2011. Bought it in 2012 daily driver. No major problems. I have had the front axles and ball joints replaced. Starter was replaced a year ago. Still runs great. Almost200,000 miles on it. Ac still ice cold. Aboit to get it detailed soon.
I have a 2003 EX same color as yours. Love it! It has less than 200k but we did end up having to replace the transmission. We have the typical issues. The heat doesn’t work unless we manually turn the heat on, we have a small surface crack on the windshield, the driver’s seat has a tear, the lock is messed up and I have to manually lock it. But even with all that it’s my favorite vehicle out of everything I’ve ever owned.
Thanks brother! The 06 was a great year, the interior got some good upgrades. The miles are right too, just make sure it's been well taken care of and you'll be able to love it for life!
Just got a 06 and it’s a little ruffer than I thought. I do not have a lift so I have to take it places for work as an uneven dirt driveway but they said there’s not much rust on it. Thanks for letting me know that the ride is ruff as I feel it. Slowly replacing the warn parts
I've owned my 2003 Element 5-spd AWD EX since 2007 and only had to change the bushing and brake master cylinder. Everything is stock and much quieter than yours. 27 mpg mixed driving.
@@basedchadthad9597 I drive like an old man, accelerate slowly and coast early before stop lights instead of braking. Works well with a stick shift. I wished they had a 6th gear because the gearing for AWD is fairly low. You can get a OBD2 Bluetooth dongle and monitor mileage on an app.
I bought my 2006 Element new and still have it. It replaced my 1999 CR-V (same drive system but different engine) which I gave to my daughter. I could go on and on why I will never sell it but those who own one can do it for me. There is only one negative thing I can say it. Windy days on the interstate turn it into a box kite. I run snow tires in the winter because my road doesn't get plowed. Considering that it isn't aerodynamic, mine gets terrific mileage.
I bought a 2004 2WD manual new, put over 250,000KM on it and then traded it in on a 2010 AWD automatic in the spring of 2011 and put over 250,000KM on that one by late summer 2018 when I bought a new car to replace it. The 2004 had the clutch slave cylinder replaced under warranty at 22,000KM CV joints replaced under warranty at about 30,000KM. The 2010 had an AC component fail at 210,000KM. Other than that nothing needed but the regular service as per the owners manual. I used both of them to tow glider trailers (which were right at the tow capacity limit when loaded with a glider) locally and through the Rockies. Transported an amazing variety of stuff in them, camped out in them and used them for all my daily driving needs. On both replacing the OEM tires with Michelins made them a lot quieter. The 2WD was prone to some axle-hop and torque steer in the wet or snow but the AWD solved those minor annoyances. I loved them. When I went to sell the 2010 the average price in my area was about twice what it was back in 2011 when I traded in the 2004. One nice thing about the later models is that the front seat belts don't anchor to the door so you don't have to remove your seatbelt when letting someone in or out of the back.
Like you i have a 03 178km replaced the oxygen sensor ,normal seat belt buckle ,have just bought a catalytic converter which apparently is very common target for lazy thief's. Another issue i have is when i turn left i get a rubbing noise from the rear wheels. Still don't know what that could be, if i where to write a list of everything ive hauled from glass round tables to motorcycles composite etc. and even camped in it with an ikea twin mattress ive owned it 12 years and use it as a utility vehicle. Quite impressive for a 20 year old car,with the skyrocketing vehicles' that are out of reach its nice to roll down the road a classic indeed. Ty for your video.
there is an OEM upgrade arm rest with storage that is wide enough to share with a passenger. i swapped mine out of my '06 when it was totaled and installed it in the replacement '04 with the skinny arm rest like yours has.
My father has a 2006 and it has been pretty good it was losing coolant, and it turned out to be a warped head but had it machined and no problems since. Being a Wisconsin car, the body is clean of car cancer. Although some of these suspension components are a bit rusty. I always wondered if using some dynamat or even some automotive carpet would quite things down some.
Might be worth a shot! A lot of modern cars use felt and other materials to calm the road noise down a bit. At the end of the day, it's a giant box pushing through the wind. It'll be noisy unfortunately! Glad you're dads 06 is doing good!
Dude! Coming from someone who is not mechanically inclined, I truly appreciate your video opinion of the honda element. I just love this vehicle the moment I saw it advertised just before it came out 2003. I had to see it at the auto convention and had to have one. got myself a 2005 in 2006 with 10k in it. had it until 2018 after giving to my son when he decided to be on his own at 19 y.o. I told my wife that we needed a 'beater' car just in case and convinced her to get a 2006 honda E last year in the summer. Keep posting videos of your E mods, upgrades, etc. You mentioned that you will answer questions. I bought LED strips to incorporate with the headlights or signal lights. Would you be able to show a DIY video on how to hook them up electronically. I also bought a light bar that i'l like to install. thank you for sharing.
That's exactly what I'm trying to do here is help everyone and not talk over someone's head who isn't mechanically inclined. I would love to do some light install videos, got a link to the turn signals you got?
I hv a 2005. 83 thousand ml, I'm the only owner. Yes the suspension is horrible. First to go out was the struts then, control arms in front and bushing need to be done. Alternators replaced and sensor. Love my HE! Hard to her ur vidio with all the noises. Really appreciate all ur info about the HE. 👍🏽
Utah Jeff ...,here..., was a sad day when my 2006 orange Element got totaled .....insurance paid out more than I bought it for 4 years ago ....We called it “ Pumpkin “ it was never hard to find in a parking lot
Owned 2005 with 85,000. Not ton of issues but I live in big city and due to having to park on the street does get rusty, breaks and tires replaced few times. And I have a cat clamp to safe guard my catalytic converter. It was stolen twice. Very expensive to replace so no issues once the clamp was put in. Also my cruise control stopped working which is odd because I rarely use it.
Hope you got the proper center caps. Also, you stated it has a 12 gallon fuel tank. Strange as I've filled mine with over 13 gallons before and specs state it has a 15.9 gallon tank.
U r awesome!.. I had a 2006 and gave it up after transmission started to go bad.. Those solenoids! City driving and heavy hauling finally succumbed to rigors of punishments... Who said 4 cylinders can't perform....Mine did! Bought it used with 36k and sold out at around 150k... I Replaced... Starter... Sway bar on both fronts... Many many brakes pads and rotors... Seized rear calipers... Strut mounts... Several broken windshields... Driver's side Actuator..... Every thinkable fluid changes...belts...etc... All those work completed with just using jack stands..I wish I had those electric lifts... Would have done more.... To be honest... My Element lost its drive to live after it got beaten to death during the Baltimore riot...it died after about a year later... I now own a G2 Ridgeline. Love it just like the element... Thinking of buying the next element only if it comes in a stick though... Cheers
One thing you really need to be careful of if you own one of these is your catalytic converter. I haven't finished watching the video so I don't know if you've touched on it but these are notorious for having their catalytic converter stolen mostly from what I understand because of the height they're not too high and not too low the perfect for getting in and getting out quickly. It's probably a good idea to invest in what I call a cat cage first time I saw one was on Facebook in the battle-born element group. I see them around a lot more now. It's probably a good investment because it cost a fortune to put an oem cat on your element. Even the aftermarket will run you a couple hundred dollars to have it installed.
Man...I've wanted one for a while I just heard they're clunky. I'm out in CT...so rust is a concern, but I drove by an 03 Ex down the road with 214k for 2700 at a little used car place. I might check it out, seeing your videos make me want one even more now haha thanks man
@@DashnCars haha cool, I'm mainly into it because it looks cool and could use the awd up here for sure. I would love a first or second gen CRV but the element is still highly possible for this guy
@@DashnCars agreed! Ive seen some sick element builds out there! Also it seems like a car old people or gardeners would get, meaning, probably not beat on daily like your typical honda haha
Great tips in this video. Bought my 2003 a year ago, in pretty good shape, 183k miles. Love it. Q: The clear coat is going in a few spots on the hood. Suggestions?
Hey Tim! Thank you! That's actually a topic I'm researching at the moment. I have the materials to touch up the clear coat on my spoiler I recently purchased. I'm the world's worst at body work or paint, but I'm going to at least attempt it. From what I understand a very high grit wet sand at several stages then reapply the clear coat. I'm sure you need a special clear coat for automotive paint. UV protection and etc. I'll be doing a video on it soon.
Kinda sounds like I'm glad I got a later model year 08 EX 152,000 from Texas it's entire life, perhaps Honda in the later 2000s improved upon some of what you mentioned in this video.
i got my 03 WITH already 189k miles, it sits at 232k or so but mine is a manual. I do envy the gear ratios on the automatics though, as the manual from 03 revs really high at freeway speeds. I also replaced the suspension, but I used Monroe quickstruts. I have also done a lot of the bushing replacement on the bottom with the exception of the lower control arms on front and back. the ONLY major issue I ran into was once the clutch slave cylinder went out after I got to Target, was able to get home and get another one. BIGGEST issue was my transmission started making some weird noise, was diagnosed with a bad release bearing on the clutch. Took the opportunity to take it south of the border (since I live in Southern California) to a mechanic I know who rebuilt my transmission and more for a lot cheaper than in the states. I never considered the element something you could drift or race around the country in haha. i always fear i could flip mine over to take any kind of quick turn or curve. my favorite mod on mine is the aftermarket halo LED lights I installed. will follow you on IG!
That's a great story! Yeah I've raced mine for many years. It unofficially retired back in 2016 from competition but I would be right back in a race with it given the chance. Any kind of headlight upgrade is a game changer on the Element. The factory lights just aren't great.
i came hear looking for a solid review for these cars. there is a 2003 honda element ex sport with 160,000 miles for sale for $3500. im thinnking to pull the trigger.
@@DashnCars I'm not to worried about rust I live in south west oregon. But is this a car I should be worried about why the price is low or take it to a mechanic for Inspection?
You can always do that, they'll be glad to help. It might have some worn bushings that'll rattle but nothing major I'd assume. The price is actually pretty good, about where it should be realistically.
Thanks brother! I wanted to get out what exactly it's like to own an Element for a decade. It's crazy at 70 mph, it just loves to drive that fast for some reason no matter the speed limit 😄
Found an 05 LX 5speed 4WD for a decent price. The clutch, flywheel, and front bushings were all done on it recently. Has a Yakima roof rack and hitch on the back too. Thinking about it to use as my camping vehicle.
Great video, I have a 2007 honda Element with 139,000 miles having a lot of those issues that your speaking about. I get a check engine light, and it is describe as accelerator issue, after I stop the car and shut it off it resets, and light shuts off, it happens everyonce and a while.
It's probably a simple fix, the newer models live the 07 have a lot of sensors to let you know if anything at all is odd. Sounds like yours isn't too bad, probably just say for a while since it has pretty low miles.
So your saying you can listen to good sound while the Element falls apart going down the road. I would love to have one of these vehicles. Needed to know what to avoid when buying used, Good informations.
my dad bought the E brand new back in 03, then handed down to me once i started driving in 09. i hated it at first, it wasn't exactly the sexiest car a kid straight out of high school would want. now i wouldn't trade it in for anything else on the market, aside from an AWD manual transmission version that's been just as well taken care of 😅
Thxs for your thoughts on the Element.. So if I live in Hawaii rust is potentially going to be worse below? Salty air .. parked next to beach always... I'm looking to buy won I hope..
I really am not sure on Hawaii cars, you shouldn't have much issue I would think. No clue though! 😄 Give it a good look over though just in case. And you're welcome!
@FruitLove the Toaster aka Element, is the perfect car in Hawaii. Like any vehicle you would take to the beach a lot though definitely want to be rinsing down the undercarriage when you get home. Cancer happens to all vehicles in Hawaii sooner than in most places in the country. But the element is an amazing vehicle for Hawaii, it's perfect, it can go to the mountains you can go to the ocean it can haul stuff it can carry stuff it can even do some stuff.
It is funny you said the driver side brake caliper seizes up more frequently because I had the passenger side seize up at 245,000 miles, but the driver side is fine!
Dash-n-Cars I guess it was! I love my Element too! It is a great vehicle, and my dad bought it new. Last year, he gave it to me, and I fixed everything up back to almost new. I also have a cold air intake to hear that awesome engine roar. I enjoyed your video, and subscribed! Keep up the awesome videos!
This is a FANTASTIC review although I wish you'd have spent some time on the wonderful features of its interior. A little of my own experience which didn't end well with me having to sell my 2005 Element with less than 60K miles on for a mere $500. To explain, in 2005, I bought my 2005 Element EX brand new and direct from a Honda Dealership in Pottstown, PA. During the time I bought it until 2018 when I had to sell it, I sooooo loved my Element. I did have the breaks and rotors repaired yearly which was a pain as well as the tires replaced once, but other than these and required maintenance, the car was fine for about 6 of the almost 14 years I had it. In 2007, I was bit by a tick and became VERY sick with Lyme Disease being bedridden most of the time until mid 2016. It took over 11 years to be diagnosed and treated, and as a result, my Element sat in my driveway a good majority of the time. Knowing little about cars outside of driving them, in 2010 with less than 35K miles on it, the oil gaskets dried up and leaked oil. When I went to drive the car, the engine blew, and I had to replace it to the tune of over 5K (it was a used engine with 45K miles on it). For a while the car drove fine but continued to mostly sit. In mid 2016, before regularly driving it, I had to have a lot of work on it which cost another 3K. My Element then worked great for a little over 2 years as it was regularly driven, but in mid 2018, I started having some MAJOR issues with the brakes once again. I brought my Element to Altlantic Honda in Bay Shore, NY and they replaced the breaks, timing belt and more costing me almost 1K more. Less than 3 months later, I started having HUGE issues with what I thought were the breaks again. It turned out that the front passenger side wheel was hitting up against the wheel well when making a right turn. I brought the car yet again to the Honda dealership/service center and was told it would require another 2K worth of work. I couldn't afford to put more $ into the car, so this time, I brought the car to a trusted friend who owned his own shop and had an excellent reputation. He put the car up and found so much rust on the bottom (undercarriage? ) that he said it wouldn't be worth even changing something so simple as the oil. Even though my Element looked new on the outside and interior and had just over 60K miles on it, with SO much rust on the underside of the Element, he told me if I hit so much as a pothole, the entire engine would fall out. I asked him about repairing the car yet again, and he was quick to say that it wasn't worth it and that the car was completely unsafe to drive, so much that he was concerned about me driving 1 mile home. I was desperately in need of another car with less than 12 hours, and wound up going to the Honda Dealership /service center that did all of the work on my Element from late 2016 to just a few months before having to let go of my once loved Element. I made the HUGE mistake of going to yet again the Atlantic Honda in Bay Shore, NY, and was sold a 2016 Used Honda Certified CR-V thinking and being told it would come closest to replacing my Element. Of course this was a bunch of BS, and not only did they mislead me on this, I was told that the car was perfectly maintained, never in an accident, had a very high rating through carfax, etc. Just as I was signing the papers, I was told they were mistaken and that the car was in a minor accident (which turned out to be a more than minor and a multi vehicle accident). Had I looked back, I could have bought a different car, even a brand new CR-V for less than $1K more than what I paid for the one I was sold. Being too big of a car without the features I needed and too small of car than what I wanted and without the features I needed , to this day, I soooo regret buying the CR-V. Even if I loved it, I will NEVER purchase another car again from Atlantic Honda in Bay Shore, NY, and probably never a Honda again unless, perhaps, they come out with a new a Element. Of course, the issues with the Element were mostly due to me being so sick and the car sitting so long, but how could Atlantic Honda not have seen all of the rust having worked it on many times from 2016 to 2018, without saying a thing about the rust even less than a few months before having to rid of it. Without the space to piece meal the car's parts which were in pristine shape, I wound up selling it (in less than 2 hours) for $500 to a used car shop which no doubt repaired and sold the car to some suckered (SMH). Because of all of this, I will NEVER buy a Honda again and certainly NOT from Atlantic Honda.... Sorry to write on and on, but I am hoping my experience might help another person...
No, no that's a great story! Shady dealerships should be held accountable for trying to screw people over. We had a horrible experience driving to Dallas to buy an MDX that sounds a lot like that. A side note, I also have Lyme Disease I caught it last year when we went to Maine for holiday. I hope you're doing well with it, mine has been very manageable so far. As far as the interior quirks, I'll save that for a future video. This video was just for people who were perspective buyers or possibly people looking at long term Element owning. Glad you liked the content! That means a lot to me.
I realize this video is 3 years old, but just saw it. Would this still be a good, reliable and fun daily driver for a person who doesn’t/can't do her own repairs? Or would I just be putting my local mechanic's kid through college? I've always loved the Element. Thanks for this great video.
Has the transmission ever have given you problems along the way before you reached 200k? For my 03 element, my auto transmission had to be rebuilt by my previous owner. What tips could you suggest for preserving the life of my transmission? That’s also taking into account that I get stuck in stop and go traffic. Which I know is bad for the transmission. What are your tips for preserving it? I changed the fluid and fluid with oem Honda fluid. It he rebuild was done at approximately 110-112,000 miles. Now I have 170,200 miles. What should I be concerned of?
I'm looking to purchase a 04 awd stick with slight idle issue for 2500 most your issues literally just sounded like wear and tear stuff. I'm positive I need one of these
I've got an 03 honda element fwd, brought it used 3 years ago, let me tell you These feel every bump in the road, noise bucket suvs have about 45 to 50 different gaskets /seals on the engine & mnts. Something's always leaking/ eroding on these vehicles, The upper control arms for the rear wheels wear out and allow the back wheels to lean out in knot kneed fashion! 😄 causing premature tire wear, the upper 17 mm bolts r the hardest to remove, you don't have any space to get a wrench on it, rear sway bar links and bushings always squeak, the rear struts leak & cause a lot of bouncing, all engine mounts will erode causing the engine to lean forward when braking, front strut tower plates always wallow out and cause the front end to pull left or right when driving you must change them immediately to prevent an accident from occurring but other than that the 2.4 litre engine is pretty solid and the transmission still hangs in there after 214 k miles.✌
I like how you tinted the moon roof. Gives it a nice look. I just bought a 5spd yesterday. Looking to do some mods but you’re absolutely right, it does give you some rattle.
Found a cheap 2003 with knocking sensor problem. Also found some steals that have blown pistons or needs new transmission for around 1k-2k with clean interior/exterior. What are your thoughts on buying a fixer. Is it worth it and how long would it take to fix these kinds of issues I’m guessing the cost would be 2000-3000 to rebuild some of the stuff
Sorry I missed this comment! If you can find a fixer.with good bones, totally worth scooping one up. People always are looking to buy one, if you ever decide you don't want it. I got my AWD manual for $600 because it had an exhaust valve stuck. Not a terrible fix and if I want to put another motor in it, I can find one for under 1000 all day long!
Thanks for the great video! I have a question. I'm living in MX. Just looked at an 03 Element last night (I bought this exact car new in 03 as soon as it came out!). It looks great, engine sounds quiet and smooth, no rust underbody at all. I only saw two things that concerned me. One, the engine light was on. The seller, who seemed really upstanding, said he had his catalytic convertor stolen and after it was replaced, they couldn't get the engine light to go off. The second issue, the seller pointed out, was a small oil leak. Should I walk away or are these minor? Thanks in advance for any tips/advice!
Hey @rgarkey! Sorry for the late response, but those aren't deal killers at all. Element's have their catalytic converters stolen pretty frequently unfortunately. Small oil leaks are nothing for a 20 year old car at this point. Just keep an eye on your fluids and change your oil regularly.
I'm looking to purchase a 2003 EX AWD Element from a friend. She's the single owner, 185k mileage. Regular maintenance has been kept up with some repairs over time (some of the bushings and sway bar end links). I'm not a skilled mechanic, but trying to do more and more maintenance and repairs on my vehicles. Would you say overall that I should be able to tackle most suspension/drive system repairs on my own with basic tools, a lift, and online guides? Short of needing an engine or transmission swap I imagine I can try and do most repairs to keep the cost of ownership low. Would you agree? Thanks!!
I would agree, depending on rust and a few other factors. Most of the body and suspension components could be seized. Just be careful before you dive head first into those jobs. Aside from that enjoy it! You'll love it, it's a great car to learn how to wrench.
Just found this channel, awesome stuff. Im ab to purchase an 04 Honda Element from my uncle out in Cali and it's got 175k miles and only one owner. Luckily, there haven't really been any rust-related issues since it's out there in the nice weather, but I'll be driving it around Michigan once I buy it. What are the top three things (or more) I should look for at it 1) gets older and more mileage and 2) starts dealing w the colder Mich weather? Thanks!
Hey James! Being Rust free is top priority, the rest of just insuring that regular maintenance has been done. Start the engine and let it idle, they're usually pretty noisy anyway. Ask if it's had a valve adjustment, I believe Honda recommended a valve adjustment between 120-150k but mine hasn't had it yet and it's over 200k. It'll just improve your gas mileage and make you engine run a bit smoother. As they age, they just have a few bushings that'll go, they'll let you know when they need to be changed they'll make a good clunk or rattle. 😄
Trying to decide between a FWD or AWD, primarily for car camping. Not sure if the moonroof is worth it, probably makes the vehicle hotter but also might cool it down when sleeping. I’ve had FWD all my life and I’m from Erie Pennsylvania, one of the snowiest cities and I could make due in a Toyota Corolla. I wonder if you lose a bit of clearance in the AWD cause doing some BLM camping I’ve been on some rough roads. Looking at 07/08, found a FWD with 175k $5000 overall runs good. I tested another that was misfiring. Probably the common clogged solenoid filter
I own a 2004 EX. I'm the original owner. My Element has 335,000 miles. I can drive 320 miles on a tank of gas before the gas light comes on. This car is amazing, the exhaust tailpipe has no carbon or any residue in it. You can rub your finger the the inside of the pipe and nothing comes off on your finger. I change the oil every 8k, and exchange the transmission fluid every 35,000 miles. I did the required major tune up at 105,000 ie new spark plugs, I still have those same spark plugs in that were installed at 105,000 miles. I did put all new struts in at 275,000. This is a Florida car, no rust whatsoever. I'm on my 3rd set of brake pads. The original pads I made it to135,000 the 2nd set made it to 286,000 so I'm on my 3rd set, all OEM. I will never sell this vehicle. I bought the car when i was 44, I'm now 61. In Florida the car becomes an Antique after 30 years, so it'll be an antique in 13 years. I think the car will make it no problem.
That's a beautiful story! What a machine, keep up the love on that one. Heck of a story ❤️
My 2005 Honda Element EX has reached 190,000 miles. Hoping to reach 300,000 miles without any major expensive repairs. I change oil/filter every 3,000 miles.
I'm in Florida also. I have an 05 Element and just reached 200k miles. I'm the 2nd owner. I baby this car. I may do a 3in lift and bigger tires. I have absolutely zero rust. I've driven all over the country and never had a problem. My local Honda offered $2500 for it hahahahaha....No thank you lol...good luck to you .
I’m a diesel mechanic 30 yrs now i could buy and own whatever car I like and i drive a Toaster i just drove her from tampa Florida to bar Harbor Maine 1700 miles straight threw 24 hrs and she has 194k
I can fully agree with that. I've had a ton of cars come and go, the Element will never leave though. Bar Harbor is amazing btw. One of my favorite places ever!
@@DashnCarsShoot, I gave up my 03 TJ with the bulletproof straight 6 for my 08 EX Elemento.
I have a Honda element 2004. I’ve got it with 270,000 miles on it. I now have 353,000. Original transmission and motor still going strong. This view is amazing! It’s like he had my exact car! Everything he described it has happened to mine. The struts, with the frozen bolt-
The brake caliper seizing up.
The straight up and down windshield catching every rock in sight, replaced it once already has cracks. The road noise drowns out beautifully with the speakers! Etc. etc. just like you said keep up with the maintenance, change the oil all the time! I’m expecting 400,000 easy!
Update:
Made it to 427,000 but wrecked it the other night:(
Had to reluctantly total it out.
Just put new front struts, AC pump and v tech solenoid.
Same motor same transmission….
It was going to 500,000 easy
Some guy in a Chevy truck towing lawn equipment in a big trailer ran a red light. Element took it like a champ.
Airbags went off. I was
Unhurt.
Another great story! Long live the E!
How many miles strong are you going now?
@@ismaelllamas9226 393000!
Still the original motor and transmission! Going to have a 400,000 mile party soon!
I purposely roll down my windows on the highway going 75 because I love road noise so this vehicle will be great for me.
The fuel light will turn on when it reaches 3 gallons left. Add that with the 12 and a half fuel up and its pretty much at the rated 15.9 gallon tank. Cheers! New Element owner here love these videos where I can hear element owners and their experience with them!
Absolutely! And very correct on that pesky Low Fuel light 😄. I have to remind my wife that there's still quite a bit left in the tank. I've had one hair splitting experience with my fuel light and the backwoods of Missouri. I thought for sure I'd be out of gas in the middle of no where. Made it to a gas station, put right at 15 gallons in 😄
@@DashnCars I do a ton of in City driving with my element I put maybe a hundred miles a day on my car. When that gas light comes on I usually try to figure I have about 40 more miles before I need to GPS the nearest gas station. LOL
Still in love at 155k miles with my 03 Galapagos Green EX I bought new off the boat in March of that year. It spend most of the year on pavement, but summers we hit lots of mountain roads with gravel and rougher surfaces. Replaced the starter last week, the struts all around in 2019, and the windshield in 2019 after the crack widened on a rock chip I picked up in 2003 when the car was just two weeks old. Absolutely the best vehicle for trailhead camping for early morning starts and all around utility in a small body-but not to small, I'm 6'3" and still have 6 inches of headroom as well as backseat leg room when I drive. I'll be doing those rear sway bar bushings in a couple of months, this car never dies.
That's an awesome story!
So good to hear!! I still have my 2005 Element, bought new in early 2006 & I love it!! My windshield has been cracked for almost 13 years, a cosmetic defect as far as I’m concerned. There was a class-action lawsuit more than 10 years ago claiming that the shape of the windshield was defective. I found that no auto glass repairer would replace it unless they got a new one through Honda (wouldn’t use a salvaged one) so there’s no incentive to replace it. It would just crack again. It’s the first new car that I’ve ever bought and I hope that it goes on and on and on until it becomes obsolete because of electric cars. Incidentally, my first Element, same model/same year was totaled and I suffered only a slight nosebleed from the airbag. The design prevented the front end from crushing into the front seat.
Love my 09 Toaster! over 246,000 miles and going strong.
They are literally THE best ❤️
It's May 2021 and my 2003 Honda Element runs like a well oiled machine. I love her.
All these great Element stories warm my heart. So glad to hear another Element getting the love it deserves 🤘
My major complaint about my 03 Element is that it just won't die! My wife is really picky about having to have a new car when we get her a car; it's about knowing the history of the car from day one so she's confident it's been taken care of. She's no mechanic, so I get it. The understanding we've had over the years is that she's going to run it into ground before we move onto her next vehicle. Well, it's been 18 years, and we're approaching 300k miles and aside from a bunch of minor acceptable things that I haven't gotten around to it won't die. For context it's an Alaska car. While we've always kept up with routine maintenance, but as you can imagine, we haven't exactly been able to baby her.
Great video, and from my experience, great car! 👍
That's hilarious! Keep it alive! Glad to hear your Element is doing well. ❤️
Got a rattle? Turn up the music!!!
Exactly! If it's bad enough it'll fall off 😄
@@DashnCars yup.... lol
i have a honda yet im still watching a review on it. 😂
There's always something to be learned! 😂
Thought I was the only one that did this haha 😂
Same. I LOVE my 07 Toster. 🌈💜
Me too... I did not use my '05 element this winter .... missed it... was using a jeep patriot 4x4 instead 👎
I have an '03 Element bought it new, now has 278,000 miles.You are right about the suspension--pretty much had it all replaced in the last 5 years, but it's worth it. Runs like new. I have been very good with regular maintenance and it's paying off! And I am about to get the third windshield installed.
Awesome! I love hearing these kind of stories. Keep it going!
Bought new 2005 EX 4x4 5 spd 200,000 miles, I’ve owned a Sequoia, Tundra, Pathfinder, Subaru and I’d go as far to say my Element is the best of them all, greatest snowboard/mt bike car. Years ago I was going to give my E to my son for his first car, but I just couldn’t give up my baby.
That's a great story! I love hearing when people have had a ton of other rigs but still love the Element the best. I completely understand that sentiment. 😍
Thrilled (new05/5spd awd169k)shifting cable's binding and would pop out of gear in a tight turn to the left,butter smooth now ea shift.
Geared low
Hoping for a decent unique vehicle.
Thanks
I have a 2008 Element SC with over 150K miles and road noise is minimal. No rattles. No bushings worn. Only problem I have had was hitting a deer at 35 mph requiring the front grille, bumper, headlights, radiator and condenser replacement. No sheet metal was hurt. I get 24mpg on the average. I'm 6' and it is easy to get in and have 5" of headroom. The radio is super and what I like is the utility of it. I have two large golden retrievers and I take them to the lake or vet and you can't beat the back end cargo capacity. I fold up the back seats and another great feature is the tailgate/lift gate feature. You can sit on the tailgate or use it as a table when camping. I heard they may be coming out with a new model soon. Hope they do. These things will last 275K miles easily with minimal care.
I'm the original owner of an '04 (Galapagos Green Metallic) EX and the passenger seat has always had an armrest. 125,000 miles and going strong. Mine's done a lot of camping. And it is a great motorcycle hauler. Keeping it forever. Nice video, thanks for sharing your insights and enthusiasm.
The Galapagos green was my second choice! Love that color as well. That's pretty good miles for an 04! And thank you for the kind words, I'm also keeping mine forever.
I’m so peeved about not having that passenger arm rest, it drives me nuts
@@vvskiitlesvv it drives everyone crazy who rides with me too 😄
@@DashnCars More brilliant ideas by idiot savant CEOs with far more money than brains. Either that, or they are purposely malicious in their intentions, as well as extremely greedy in cutting corners. The idiots who designed the Buick Encore did the same thing. No passenger armrest and no center console. Unacceptable. As far as the Element goes, I think you can get an aftermarket center console for the Element SC model and it will fit the other models. It also makes a great armrest for the passenger. That's what I would do. I'm looking at an 04 EX but it already has both armrests. I haven't bought it yet, going to see it tommorrow. It looks identical to your 2003 with 169K miles. I found a 2011 solid silver EX with no moonroof and only 60K miles 2 hours in the opposite direction. I had to choose one or the other because these are flying off the lots around here and I can't look at both in one day. If I go with the 2004 and dont like it for some reason, the 2011 will be sold before I can get to it. Or vice versa. People are crazy around here about anything AWD or 4x4 and under a certain price that has a normal old school engine and transmission. Like the Element, the Nissan Xterra 4x4 and the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4 doors. Everytime I find something online that I want to check out......POOF....GONE before I can formulate a thought about it. Nobody around here wants an $800 a month truck payment on a 50 grand truck or SUV and they don't want the crappy underpowered junk they are putting out with garbage transmissions either. So it's like trying to win a lottery to find something decent. Very low supply, insanely high demand. I've begun to wonder if people are camping out in front of dealerships just waiting for the same thing I'm looking for because it's utterly bizarre how fast they get to it as soon as I find it online. Even if it's a new listing and just posted!!
@@reesedaniel5835 no kidding! A lot of people in the Element groups get scalpers trying to buy their Element from them.
I have a 2003 AWD that pa bought new, I got it when he died, thanks Pa! Still under 50,000 miles, all its needed was a coil, oil changes and I had the valves adjusted last year just to check. I have an appointment to replace bushings next week...
MY HOTELEMENT 2005 Burnt Orange
Bought mine used with 40.000 k mi in 2007
250.000 miles and no complaints
I agree with you 90% , including the speeding tickets
except my air intake is factory and I get 28 mi per gallon
I'm not a mechanic but I'm good at tinkering
so I have replaced
lower control arm loaded( it means , it comes with all the bushings ready to rock) twice for a fraction of what the stealer quoted me
rear sway bar rubber bushings twice
struts all the way around
One starter
couple of serpentine belts
Akebono rotors and pads ( incredible durability, when I bought my Element need it brakes , I'm on my second set )
I was off road about 2 yrs ago and I hit my gas tank and ruined my gas gauge
so I just go by mileage I safely get 330 miles per tank
one of this days I'll venture into the tank and check the sending unit
I work at a ski area and this AWD traction system is awesome, I will say is my favorite feature
My HOTELEMENT is going to reach 300.000 k with no problem
will I buy another one ?
YESSSS!!
I LOVE MY TOASTER
They really are amazing machines! Glad you love yours too!
I own a 2004 same car to a T iv'e owned it 14 years and it is still my daily driver to charlotte north Carolina 7 days a week, 60 miles a day and 300 miles a week. 250,360 miles and still running great
oh yeah this to is my second E , my first was a 2005, taken out by a man who ran a stop light 5:30 in the morning, on my way to work............love my Element
That's a great story! Sorry to hear about the other Element. I fully plan on having my son drive mine for his first car in another 9 years or so!
2004 222754 miles..Nevada ..no rust. But now I'm in New Hampshire..Salt...
Under coating soon 😊
Been watching your channel for a few years 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Hell yeah! Thank you so much for the support. I'll be doing some update videos this fall and into the winter. Great find!
My 07 is rust free... desert life, no snow, just tones of in city driving thru dirt, gravel and dust... her suspension and brakes are shot but other than a few minor part swaps, she is AMAZING 👏🥰
This makes me happy to hear ❤️
just got a 07 exp in orange with 136k miles. the 3 gallon left when light is on is definitely a fact. with the 5sp manual, this car definitely needs the freeway gear out of the tsx. I daily drive this frosty mug and get a spot on 23 mpg. I have the bushing rattle and the left caliper hang up, please take care of your E.LEE. these MINI TRUCKS are a rare breed and not deserving of the criticism they get. my neighbor who is a cattleman loves the dash shifter and tailgate. GREAT VIDEO AND REVIEW! keep up the good work good sir!
Thanks brother! People just don't understand how good these rigs are until they own one. It sounds almost crazy, but the Element really is one of the most versatile vehicles ever made. There is a good reason that I'm a huge car guy and I've never considered getting rid of my Element for over a decade now. I'm glad you love yours too, I just ordered a few goodies for mine, I'll be making some more Element content very soon!
Just bought an '03 element with 162k miles (same color too). Such a great video for me as a new owner for insight and inspiration. Looking forward to this car for the long haul!
That's awesome man! Enjoy the heck out of it. They're so good
We love ours. Excellent for the kids BUT only a 4 seater. It has SO MUCH room though. Easy to throw up the seats in the back, and watch a movie at the drive in with both kids. Our element didn’t have any rust issues (ny/pa). It is kinda finicky about oil. We had some kind of computer issue when suddenly it wouldn’t want to start up and there would be a weird ticking to the right of the driver. If it does this, a temporary fix is to give it a good hit just above the speedometer. Even with any issues we have had it’s the absolute best vehicle we’ve ever had.
Fully agreed! I have to hit my dash to get my gauges on every once in a while 😄. The kids in the back are the best, they have room for days plus if they spill something? No biggie! Just wipe it up.
Bought mine earlier this year... 2008 Element EX with 99k miles. It runs and looks like new.I plan to keep this car for a very long time.
Good buy! That's awesome to have such low miles, enjoy it!
Good stuff man! I literally just bought a used one with 220k miles today and it runs like a champ.
Excellent! I had a phone call with a local friend last night who just bought one for his wife. Good pick up!
For how much? Debating if i should pick one up. Found 1 with 224k miles
I also own a 2003 EX which I enjoy very much. I am the 2nd owner; bought it in 2005 with 28k and now has 420k miles. Road noise is no problem with me. I let it warm up first thing in morning, change oil myself every 5k with synthetic, and don’t run the hell out of it. I’ve had the alternator, starter and water pump replaced but for that mileage and 17 years old would any other vehicle do better? Good in snow, great sound system, and by far the most practical and versatile vehicle I’ve ever owned. Cheers!
That's a huge milestone! Any car would be lucky to hit over 400k miles but I've seen many Elements in that range surprisingly.
I am so glad to hear that your 03 has 420K! I am so sad at the thought of having to get another car. My 03 has 289K. I do keep the oil changed. Have done some work on it, heavy duty suspension last year bec used for carrying my sample books for work. Also hit some curbs and had to replace 2 axels. Spent 5k last yrs on thise and brakes, shocks windshield. Just can't give it up! So fun to drive and so adorable. Thinking of getting another one eventually.
@@lynetteheitman5118 Glad to hear of your response on your Element. Mine has now progressed to over 423k. I cleaned the idle air control valve recently as it started surging. Honda dealer wanted $400 to replace it. I bought a $15 gasket, followed a Utube video and cleaned it myself. Still shooting for 1/2 million miles on mine. Happy New Year!
I wonder if you can get 1 million miles- I am only at 235,000 in my 2003 Element
I'm buying a 05' Element with 200,000 miles on it today. I'm so glad I found th is video :)
Yaaaaaay! I'm glad you found your Element! Welcome to the family, if you have any questions let me know 🤘
I bought an '05 about a week ago with 267K Mi. and trying to smog it. I replaced the no-knock, but still get the knock fault :(
That fly through in the intro was fkn awesome.
I've always wanted to try that with the Element. I crashed the drone bad once doing it 😄
Agreed, creative
Dude your channel is gonna blow up I can see it
Working on it brother! Thanks for the support 😁
Great vid, I bought my 03 element about 2 years ago. I feel like I've done nothing but repair it. It was passed around in auction for years but never up kept more than what was needed to keep it sellable. I think I've caught up to the point of having fun with it. replaced everything from starters, to clutch to calipers, valve alignments, tires, ball joints.. I've lost count of everything LOL
😄 😄 Sounds like it! Yeah like most early 00 cars they'll need love now just about everywhere. Once it's finally on YOUR schedule then it's fun time! Until the next thing comes up 😄
Very nice and honest as always. Lovely review.
Keep up the amazing job.
Thanks brother! Thank you for stopping by as always, working on more videos right now.
Enjoyed the video. I also have an 03 E. Got mine 8 years ago with 56K and just hit 75K this week. Have changed the starter and did an alternator last week. Just normal maintenance otherwise. Great car
I'm still driving away with mine, just about to cross over the 210k mark. No issues, just smooth sailing. Unless it's really windy 😄
Great review of your time with your element. Haven't seen anyone do a well put review like this, covering all the good and bad.
Much appreciated! I wanted to cover so the bases for any potential buyer or long time owner. Nothing compares to just owning one for a decade. I have a wealth of seat time with my Element!
@@DashnCars Thank you again for posting these videos. I enjoy watching other element videos 🙏
Bought one of the first Elements brand new in 2003.....I had Chow dogs, so it was perfect for hauling. I also had a summer job with my town watering the hanging baskets of the downtown where I lived.....it carried the water tank with ease, and when I popped out the back glass sunroof....and could reach the baskets easily with the watering wand.....sometimes for fun Id drive around with the watering wand out of the roof.....it looked like I had a shower in the back of the Element....lol.....My only complaint was the gas mileage....It had plenty of power, and of course it was a box, so I guess I shouldnt have been too surprised, but that was the only major complaint I heard from fellow Element owners....I drove it for 11 years, and I never experienced any of these problems. I only had to replace the starter motor....not surprising after 8 years of driving....aside from the fabric of the drivers side seat breaking down...(it wouldnt have if I had bothered to put my OEM seatcovers on after having the car detailed)....this vehicle was bulletproof...it had hard use....and it never let me down ever.....loved going round domestic 4X4 trucks in the wintertime that had skidded off the road......best vehicle Ive ever owned.....
Absolutely agree. Best work vehicle/ rig ever. That's so awesome it worked well for you for many many years
Nothing like watching a fresh video while wearing a fresh Dash and Cars T Shirt!
😍😍😍😍 You the man. I'm working on a few videos right now.
I've got an 07' Orange Box (AWD, 5sp), 200,000 miles, love it!
I bought my brand new 2004 Honda Element in the winter and the windshield was cracked from a rock on the highway within a month...but I love my Element and still have it (replaced the windshield). It'll be 17 years in February! I'm probably going to keep my Element forever. I'd even buy another one if I could find one!!!
What tires would you recommend? I'm just a daily driver and in Florida (so no snow).
That's incredible! 17 years!
As far as a good driver tire, the best advice with tires is you get what you paid for. Just find something mid tier with good reviews. I don't usually have a preference because I have so many different cars. Just whatever suits the car at the time.
@@DashnCars Thanks! I'm so glad I found your video!!!
@@skkeech absolutely! Glad to hear of another story of Element love. Always makes me happy!
probably the most detailed review i've ever seen on the element
Much appreciated!
3 years later and its helping me out
I have a black 2011. Bought it in 2012 daily driver. No major problems. I have had the front axles and ball joints replaced. Starter was replaced a year ago. Still runs great. Almost200,000 miles on it. Ac still ice cold. Aboit to get it detailed soon.
That's awesome news. They're such amazing cars.
I have a 2003 EX same color as yours. Love it! It has less than 200k but we did end up having to replace the transmission. We have the typical issues. The heat doesn’t work unless we manually turn the heat on, we have a small surface crack on the windshield, the driver’s seat has a tear, the lock is messed up and I have to manually lock it. But even with all that it’s my favorite vehicle out of everything I’ve ever owned.
That's awesome! Sounds like a great rig, most people have that same story. Same ending to, best and most favorite car ever 🤘
Thank you so much for this great video! I Subscribed! I’m considering getting a 2006 with 175,000 miles.
Thanks brother! The 06 was a great year, the interior got some good upgrades. The miles are right too, just make sure it's been well taken care of and you'll be able to love it for life!
Just got a 06 and it’s a little ruffer than I thought. I do not have a lift so I have to take it places for work as an uneven dirt driveway but they said there’s not much rust on it. Thanks for letting me know that the ride is ruff as I feel it. Slowly replacing the warn parts
I've owned my 2003 Element 5-spd AWD EX since 2007 and only had to change the bushing and brake master cylinder. Everything is stock and much quieter than yours. 27 mpg mixed driving.
wonder why he gets 17mpg and you get 27
@@basedchadthad9597 I drive like an old man, accelerate slowly and coast early before stop lights instead of braking. Works well with a stick shift. I wished they had a 6th gear because the gearing for AWD is fairly low. You can get a OBD2 Bluetooth dongle and monitor mileage on an app.
I bought my 2006 Element new and still have it. It replaced my 1999 CR-V (same drive system but different engine) which I gave to my daughter. I could go on and on why I will never sell it but those who own one can do it for me. There is only one negative thing I can say it. Windy days on the interstate turn it into a box kite. I run snow tires in the winter because my road doesn't get plowed. Considering that it isn't aerodynamic, mine gets terrific mileage.
That's exactly right! It's a forever car. So many people just like us will never get rid of them.
I'm getting an element soon from my dad in two weeks and I'm very excited watching these videos! I appreciate seeing this first hand :)
Yay!! That's killer. That's a great car to be getting for sure. I've had mine for so long and couldn't be happier with it.
Dash-n-Cars for sure! I can't wait for my own little adventures with it :)
If you’re used to cars, go easy on the corners. We had to buy a rack for the roof too
@@vvskiitlesvv good point! They handle very well, but it can get away from you.
I bought a 2004 2WD manual new, put over 250,000KM on it and then traded it in on a 2010 AWD automatic in the spring of 2011 and put over 250,000KM on that one by late summer 2018 when I bought a new car to replace it. The 2004 had the clutch slave cylinder replaced under warranty at 22,000KM CV joints replaced under warranty at about 30,000KM. The 2010 had an AC component fail at 210,000KM. Other than that nothing needed but the regular service as per the owners manual. I used both of them to tow glider trailers (which were right at the tow capacity limit when loaded with a glider) locally and through the Rockies. Transported an amazing variety of stuff in them, camped out in them and used them for all my daily driving needs. On both replacing the OEM tires with Michelins made them a lot quieter. The 2WD was prone to some axle-hop and torque steer in the wet or snow but the AWD solved those minor annoyances. I loved them. When I went to sell the 2010 the average price in my area was about twice what it was back in 2011 when I traded in the 2004. One nice thing about the later models is that the front seat belts don't anchor to the door so you don't have to remove your seatbelt when letting someone in or out of the back.
That's an awesome story! I love hearing other people's lives with their Element. Glad you had a few to love, such a great car to have as a companion
I’ve gone long distances at right around a 100mph. But I went with the manual. It made a real difference to power and gas mileage in the long run.
Oh yeah, absolutely. I think the Auto is pretty good for in town but long drives the manual shows its worth.
Yes! +1 for window weld bushings lol! I used 3M window weld for the trailing arm bushings in my '87 300zx years ago and it's still solid.
Like you i have a 03 178km replaced the oxygen sensor ,normal seat belt buckle ,have just bought a catalytic converter which apparently is very common target for lazy thief's.
Another issue i have is when i turn left i get a rubbing noise from the rear wheels. Still don't know what that could be, if i where to write a list of everything ive hauled from glass round tables to motorcycles composite etc. and even camped in it with an ikea twin mattress ive owned it 12 years and use it as a utility vehicle.
Quite impressive for a 20 year old car,with the skyrocketing vehicles' that are out of reach its nice to roll down the road a classic indeed. Ty for your video.
Thank you for sharing your story! Elements really are the best!
there is an OEM upgrade arm rest with storage that is wide enough to share with a passenger. i swapped mine out of my '06 when it was totaled and installed it in the replacement '04 with the skinny arm rest like yours has.
Yeah those are great, I need to find one bad! 😄
My father has a 2006 and it has been pretty good it was losing coolant, and it turned out to be a warped head but had it machined and no problems since. Being a Wisconsin car, the body is clean of car cancer. Although some of these suspension components are a bit rusty. I always wondered if using some dynamat or even some automotive carpet would quite things down some.
Might be worth a shot! A lot of modern cars use felt and other materials to calm the road noise down a bit. At the end of the day, it's a giant box pushing through the wind. It'll be noisy unfortunately! Glad you're dads 06 is doing good!
Dude! Coming from someone who is not mechanically inclined, I truly appreciate your video opinion of the honda element. I just love this vehicle the moment I saw it advertised just before it came out 2003. I had to see it at the auto convention and had to have one. got myself a 2005 in 2006 with 10k in it. had it until 2018 after giving to my son when he decided to be on his own at 19 y.o. I told my wife that we needed a 'beater' car just in case and convinced her to get a 2006 honda E last year in the summer. Keep posting videos of your E mods, upgrades, etc. You mentioned that you will answer questions. I bought LED strips to incorporate with the headlights or signal lights. Would you be able to show a DIY video on how to hook them up electronically. I also bought a light bar that i'l like to install. thank you for sharing.
That's exactly what I'm trying to do here is help everyone and not talk over someone's head who isn't mechanically inclined. I would love to do some light install videos, got a link to the turn signals you got?
@@DashnCars sorry but i'm not getting what you mean by 'got a link to the turn signals you got?'
Oh sorry! I meant the LED strips for the headlights.
I was gonna send you a pix of it along with the box but don't know how.
@@DashnCars I sent you a pix of the LED light and the box to you FB page. thank you
I hv a 2005. 83 thousand ml, I'm the only owner. Yes the suspension is horrible. First to go out was the struts then, control arms in front and bushing need to be done. Alternators replaced and sensor.
Love my HE!
Hard to her ur vidio with all the noises.
Really appreciate all ur info about the HE. 👍🏽
You're absolutely welcome! Glad you love yours too ❤️
I have a 2008 and I always have trouble with the Vtech solenoid. The trick is too keep the oil clean by changing the oil way before it's due.
i just got me an 03 black,.. love it,..
Nice! You'll enjoy it for many years, I got mine back in 09 and will never sell it!
Utah Jeff ...,here..., was a sad day when my 2006 orange Element got totaled .....insurance paid out more than I bought it for 4 years ago ....We called it “ Pumpkin “ it was never hard to find in a parking lot
Rest easy Pumpkin 🙏
Owned 2005 with 85,000. Not ton of issues but I live in big city and due to having to park on the street does get rusty, breaks and tires replaced few times. And I have a cat clamp to safe guard my catalytic converter. It was stolen twice. Very expensive to replace so no issues once the clamp was put in. Also my cruise control stopped working which is odd because I rarely use it.
Sorry to hear about the cats, such a problem in big cities. Glad the clamp is working though!
Hope you got the proper center caps. Also, you stated it has a 12 gallon fuel tank. Strange as I've filled mine with over 13 gallons before and specs state it has a 15.9 gallon tank.
Wheels are long sold now and yes I've corrected myself that the tank is 15.9, however most gas pumps will click of at or around 13 gallons.
My five speed seemingly gets close to 23-24 mpg. Great video, love it when a podcaster uses words like "road manners" and "aforementioned."
😄 😄 I believe the 5 speeds get better gas mileage for sure, especially if you aren't AWD.
Mark Knowles: Yes, it's so refreshing to hear something other than the usual "like" , "basically" and "whatever".....
@@reesedaniel5835 I try! 😄
Is it AWD?
@@DanielGennaro Both of mine are, yes
U r awesome!.. I had a 2006 and gave it up after transmission started to go bad.. Those solenoids! City driving and heavy hauling finally succumbed to rigors of punishments... Who said 4 cylinders can't perform....Mine did! Bought it used with 36k and sold out at around 150k... I Replaced... Starter... Sway bar on both fronts... Many many brakes pads and rotors... Seized rear calipers... Strut mounts... Several broken windshields... Driver's side Actuator..... Every thinkable fluid changes...belts...etc... All those work completed with just using jack stands..I wish I had those electric lifts... Would have done more.... To be honest... My Element lost its drive to live after it got beaten to death during the Baltimore riot...it died after about a year later... I now own a G2 Ridgeline. Love it just like the element... Thinking of buying the next element only if it comes in a stick though... Cheers
Thanks buddy! The Element is something else, to own one is to know the love! I love the Ridgeline too, very awesome in its own right. 👍👍
Superrrrrrrr informative, man.i appreciate your expert insight n COMMUNICATION skill!!
Thank you so much! That means the world to me.
One thing you really need to be careful of if you own one of these is your catalytic converter. I haven't finished watching the video so I don't know if you've touched on it but these are notorious for having their catalytic converter stolen mostly from what I understand because of the height they're not too high and not too low the perfect for getting in and getting out quickly. It's probably a good idea to invest in what I call a cat cage first time I saw one was on Facebook in the battle-born element group. I see them around a lot more now. It's probably a good investment because it cost a fortune to put an oem cat on your element. Even the aftermarket will run you a couple hundred dollars to have it installed.
Very true, I'm on all the Facebook groups as well and the cat thieves have been going nuts!
Yeah I lost mine in September. 1300$ to replace!
@@fhardin2002 crazy! I hate that is happening to Element folk.
Sweet vid! I’m looking for an element now here in Phoenix! It’s been hard to find one, I’m still looking tho!
Good luck! They're worth it
I feel you about the road noise and the clucking sounds lol but I love my element it's so reliable.
Just part of the experience really 😄
Dash-n-Cars lol it makes my element. Lol 😂
@@808Affliction saaaaame 😄😄
Man...I've wanted one for a while I just heard they're clunky. I'm out in CT...so rust is a concern, but I drove by an 03 Ex down the road with 214k for 2700 at a little used car place. I might check it out, seeing your videos make me want one even more now haha thanks man
Ha! They really aren't bad at all. I just know some people are super whiny about little clunks. I love mine and won't ever part with it.
@@DashnCars haha cool, I'm mainly into it because it looks cool and could use the awd up here for sure. I would love a first or second gen CRV but the element is still highly possible for this guy
@@timborice22 Personally the Element just has more quirks and soul than the CRV. I love both, but the Element is such a unique car.
@@DashnCars agreed! Ive seen some sick element builds out there! Also it seems like a car old people or gardeners would get, meaning, probably not beat on daily like your typical honda haha
Nice owner review, although I think I figured out why you are getting speeding tickets @ 12:30 of video.
You would think so, but that accelerated to about 50 mph 😄 and knock on wood I haven't had a ticket in the Element since 2013 🙏
I have an 05 honda element, bought it new in Dalton Georgia. And I know exactly what you mean by speeding tickets.
Great tips in this video. Bought my 2003 a year ago, in pretty good shape, 183k miles. Love it.
Q: The clear coat is going in a few spots on the hood. Suggestions?
Hey Tim! Thank you! That's actually a topic I'm researching at the moment. I have the materials to touch up the clear coat on my spoiler I recently purchased. I'm the world's worst at body work or paint, but I'm going to at least attempt it. From what I understand a very high grit wet sand at several stages then reapply the clear coat. I'm sure you need a special clear coat for automotive paint. UV protection and etc. I'll be doing a video on it soon.
@@DashnCars Thanks - I look forward to it
Kinda sounds like I'm glad I got a later model year 08 EX 152,000 from Texas it's entire life, perhaps Honda in the later 2000s improved upon some of what you mentioned in this video.
i got my 03 WITH already 189k miles, it sits at 232k or so but mine is a manual. I do envy the gear ratios on the automatics though, as the manual from 03 revs really high at freeway speeds. I also replaced the suspension, but I used Monroe quickstruts. I have also done a lot of the bushing replacement on the bottom with the exception of the lower control arms on front and back. the ONLY major issue I ran into was once the clutch slave cylinder went out after I got to Target, was able to get home and get another one. BIGGEST issue was my transmission started making some weird noise, was diagnosed with a bad release bearing on the clutch. Took the opportunity to take it south of the border (since I live in Southern California) to a mechanic I know who rebuilt my transmission and more for a lot cheaper than in the states. I never considered the element something you could drift or race around the country in haha. i always fear i could flip mine over to take any kind of quick turn or curve. my favorite mod on mine is the aftermarket halo LED lights I installed. will follow you on IG!
That's a great story! Yeah I've raced mine for many years. It unofficially retired back in 2016 from competition but I would be right back in a race with it given the chance. Any kind of headlight upgrade is a game changer on the Element. The factory lights just aren't great.
i came hear looking for a solid review for these cars. there is a 2003 honda element ex sport with 160,000 miles for sale for $3500. im thinnking to pull the trigger.
Sounds like a good buy! Just check under for significant rust. Besides that check the maintenance records! Let me know if you have any questions
@@DashnCars I'm not to worried about rust I live in south west oregon. But is this a car I should be worried about why the price is low or take it to a mechanic for Inspection?
You can always do that, they'll be glad to help. It might have some worn bushings that'll rattle but nothing major I'd assume. The price is actually pretty good, about where it should be realistically.
Got a 03 element ex awd 5 speed 212k and going strong
That's awesome! My 03 has almost the same exact miles on it.
Are you on coilovers or lowering springs?
Man best UNBIASED info! now i appreciate my 222,000-E even more! yes really fast at 70+!!!
Thanks brother! I wanted to get out what exactly it's like to own an Element for a decade. It's crazy at 70 mph, it just loves to drive that fast for some reason no matter the speed limit 😄
Have a 03 I LOVE IT. Over 289K mi. If I buy another car will be an Element!
Always wanted one of these ! Very hard to find I wish Honda would make them again
They are harder to find! People tend to hang on to them.
Found an 05 LX 5speed 4WD for a decent price. The clutch, flywheel, and front bushings were all done on it recently.
Has a Yakima roof rack and hitch on the back too.
Thinking about it to use as my camping vehicle.
They are amazing camp vehicles. 👍👍
Very nice I’m thinking about getting a 2006 anything I need to look for especially with that model
Nope, nothing crazy. They're one of the better years from what I've heard.
Great video, I have a 2007 honda Element with 139,000 miles having a lot of those issues that your speaking about. I get a check engine light, and it is describe as accelerator issue, after I stop the car and shut it off it resets, and light shuts off, it happens everyonce and a while.
It's probably a simple fix, the newer models live the 07 have a lot of sensors to let you know if anything at all is odd. Sounds like yours isn't too bad, probably just say for a while since it has pretty low miles.
So your saying you can listen to good sound while the Element falls apart going down the road.
I would love to have one of these vehicles. Needed to know what to avoid when buying used, Good informations.
my dad bought the E brand new back in 03, then handed down to me once i started driving in 09. i hated it at first, it wasn't exactly the sexiest car a kid straight out of high school would want. now i wouldn't trade it in for anything else on the market, aside from an AWD manual transmission version that's been just as well taken care of 😅
😄 😄 😄 That's a great story. I could see that coming right out of high school!
Love your Element!! what size tires are you running? do they rub?
Thxs for your thoughts on the Element.. So if I live in Hawaii rust is potentially going to be worse below? Salty air .. parked next to beach always... I'm looking to buy won I hope..
I really am not sure on Hawaii cars, you shouldn't have much issue I would think. No clue though! 😄 Give it a good look over though just in case. And you're welcome!
@FruitLove the Toaster aka Element, is the perfect car in Hawaii.
Like any vehicle you would take to the beach a lot though definitely want to be rinsing down the undercarriage when you get home. Cancer happens to all vehicles in Hawaii sooner than in most places in the country. But the element is an amazing vehicle for Hawaii, it's perfect, it can go to the mountains you can go to the ocean it can haul stuff it can carry stuff it can even do some stuff.
It is funny you said the driver side brake caliper seizes up more frequently because I had the passenger side seize up at 245,000 miles, but the driver side is fine!
That's weird! Yeah I've heard several people had the driver side sieze. What year is yours?
Dash-n-Cars It is a 2003 automatic Fwd Ex.
@@ExtremeAwesomeness ah! Weird, must have been a bad year for the rear brake manufacturing line! 😄
Dash-n-Cars I guess it was! I love my Element too! It is a great vehicle, and my dad bought it new. Last year, he gave it to me, and I fixed everything up back to almost new. I also have a cold air intake to hear that awesome engine roar. I enjoyed your video, and subscribed! Keep up the awesome videos!
@@ExtremeAwesomeness thanks buddy! Will do!
This is a FANTASTIC review although I wish you'd have spent some time on the wonderful features of its interior. A little of my own experience which didn't end well with me having to sell my 2005 Element with less than 60K miles on for a mere $500. To explain, in 2005, I bought my 2005 Element EX brand new and direct from a Honda Dealership in Pottstown, PA. During the time I bought it until 2018 when I had to sell it, I sooooo loved my Element. I did have the breaks and rotors repaired yearly which was a pain as well as the tires replaced once, but other than these and required maintenance, the car was fine for about 6 of the almost 14 years I had it. In 2007, I was bit by a tick and became VERY sick with Lyme Disease being bedridden most of the time until mid 2016. It took over 11 years to be diagnosed and treated, and as a result, my Element sat in my driveway a good majority of the time. Knowing little about cars outside of driving them, in 2010 with less than 35K miles on it, the oil gaskets dried up and leaked oil. When I went to drive the car, the engine blew, and I had to replace it to the tune of over 5K (it was a used engine with 45K miles on it). For a while the car drove fine but continued to mostly sit. In mid 2016, before regularly driving it, I had to have a lot of work on it which cost another 3K. My Element then worked great for a little over 2 years as it was regularly driven, but in mid 2018, I started having some MAJOR issues with the brakes once again. I brought my Element to Altlantic Honda in Bay Shore, NY and they replaced the breaks, timing belt and more costing me almost 1K more. Less than 3 months later, I started having HUGE issues with what I thought were the breaks again. It turned out that the front passenger side wheel was hitting up against the wheel well when making a right turn. I brought the car yet again to the Honda dealership/service center and was told it would require another 2K worth of work. I couldn't afford to put more $ into the car, so this time, I brought the car to a trusted friend who owned his own shop and had an excellent reputation. He put the car up and found so much rust on the bottom (undercarriage? ) that he said it wouldn't be worth even changing something so simple as the oil. Even though my Element looked new on the outside and interior and had just over 60K miles on it, with SO much rust on the underside of the Element, he told me if I hit so much as a pothole, the entire engine would fall out. I asked him about repairing the car yet again, and he was quick to say that it wasn't worth it and that the car was completely unsafe to drive, so much that he was concerned about me driving 1 mile home. I was desperately in need of another car with less than 12 hours, and wound up going to the Honda Dealership /service center that did all of the work on my Element from late 2016 to just a few months before having to let go of my once loved Element. I made the HUGE mistake of going to yet again the Atlantic Honda in Bay Shore, NY, and was sold a 2016 Used Honda Certified CR-V thinking and being told it would come closest to replacing my Element. Of course this was a bunch of BS, and not only did they mislead me on this, I was told that the car was perfectly maintained, never in an accident, had a very high rating through carfax, etc. Just as I was signing the papers, I was told they were mistaken and that the car was in a minor accident (which turned out to be a more than minor and a multi vehicle accident). Had I looked back, I could have bought a different car, even a brand new CR-V for less than $1K more than what I paid for the one I was sold. Being too big of a car without the features I needed and too small of car than what I wanted and without the features I needed , to this day, I soooo regret buying the CR-V. Even if I loved it, I will NEVER purchase another car again from Atlantic Honda in Bay Shore, NY, and probably never a Honda again unless, perhaps, they come out with a new a Element. Of course, the issues with the Element were mostly due to me being so sick and the car sitting so long, but how could Atlantic Honda not have seen all of the rust having worked it on many times from 2016 to 2018, without saying a thing about the rust even less than a few months before having to rid of it. Without the space to piece meal the car's parts which were in pristine shape, I wound up selling it (in less than 2 hours) for $500 to a used car shop which no doubt repaired and sold the car to some suckered (SMH). Because of all of this, I will NEVER buy a Honda again and certainly NOT from Atlantic Honda.... Sorry to write on and on, but I am hoping my experience might help another person...
No, no that's a great story! Shady dealerships should be held accountable for trying to screw people over. We had a horrible experience driving to Dallas to buy an MDX that sounds a lot like that.
A side note, I also have Lyme Disease I caught it last year when we went to Maine for holiday. I hope you're doing well with it, mine has been very manageable so far.
As far as the interior quirks, I'll save that for a future video. This video was just for people who were perspective buyers or possibly people looking at long term Element owning. Glad you liked the content! That means a lot to me.
Actually if they told you they replaced the "timing belt" that is hilarious!! Since this engine has a timing chain.
I realize this video is 3 years old, but just saw it. Would this still be a good, reliable and fun daily driver for a person who doesn’t/can't do her own repairs? Or would I just be putting my local mechanic's kid through college? I've always loved the Element. Thanks for this great video.
Has the transmission ever have given you problems along the way before you reached 200k? For my 03 element, my auto transmission had to be rebuilt by my previous owner. What tips could you suggest for preserving the life of my transmission? That’s also taking into account that I get stuck in stop and go traffic. Which I know is bad for the transmission. What are your tips for preserving it? I changed the fluid and fluid with oem Honda fluid. It he rebuild was done at approximately 110-112,000 miles. Now I have 170,200 miles. What should I be concerned of?
If those control arm bushings go your tires will wear out very quickly!
I'm looking to purchase a 04 awd stick with slight idle issue for 2500 most your issues literally just sounded like wear and tear stuff. I'm positive I need one of these
Idle issues are super easy. Usually just needs to be driven hard.
I've got an 03 honda element fwd, brought it used 3 years ago, let me tell you These feel every bump in the road, noise bucket suvs have about 45 to 50 different gaskets /seals on the engine & mnts. Something's always leaking/ eroding on these vehicles, The upper control arms for the rear wheels wear out and allow the back wheels to lean out in knot kneed fashion! 😄 causing premature tire wear, the upper 17 mm bolts r the hardest to remove, you don't have any space to get a wrench on it, rear sway bar links and bushings always squeak, the rear struts leak & cause a lot of bouncing, all engine mounts will erode causing the engine to lean forward when braking, front strut tower plates always wallow out and cause the front end to pull left or right when driving you must change them immediately to prevent an accident from occurring but other than that the 2.4 litre engine is pretty solid and the transmission still hangs in there after 214 k miles.✌
That's about everything there! 😄😄 And I still love mine!
We got adjustable control arms for the back and that helped with the tires.
Thanks s so much for this.
Appreciate your candor and honesty!
You're absolutely welcome! There's no value in being dishonest.
Suspension looks as tight as my zr2. Its nice to have for bumps but u feel everything
I like how you tinted the moon roof. Gives it a nice look. I just bought a 5spd yesterday. Looking to do some mods but you’re absolutely right, it does give you some rattle.
Love the 5 speeds 🧡
Found a cheap 2003 with knocking sensor problem. Also found some steals that have blown pistons or needs new transmission for around 1k-2k with clean interior/exterior. What are your thoughts on buying a fixer. Is it worth it and how long would it take to fix these kinds of issues I’m guessing the cost would be 2000-3000 to rebuild some of the stuff
Sorry I missed this comment! If you can find a fixer.with good bones, totally worth scooping one up. People always are looking to buy one, if you ever decide you don't want it. I got my AWD manual for $600 because it had an exhaust valve stuck. Not a terrible fix and if I want to put another motor in it, I can find one for under 1000 all day long!
Thanks for the great video! I have a question. I'm living in MX. Just looked at an 03 Element last night (I bought this exact car new in 03 as soon as it came out!). It looks great, engine sounds quiet and smooth, no rust underbody at all. I only saw two things that concerned me. One, the engine light was on. The seller, who seemed really upstanding, said he had his catalytic convertor stolen and after it was replaced, they couldn't get the engine light to go off. The second issue, the seller pointed out, was a small oil leak. Should I walk away or are these minor? Thanks in advance for any tips/advice!
Hey @rgarkey! Sorry for the late response, but those aren't deal killers at all. Element's have their catalytic converters stolen pretty frequently unfortunately. Small oil leaks are nothing for a 20 year old car at this point. Just keep an eye on your fluids and change your oil regularly.
Just got an element 2005 :) yours looks super nice 👍 what size tires and rims do you have or what model Acura was from? Thanks and advance .
That's awesome! These are from an 05 to 06 Acura Rsx Type S
Hi, what size tires are those ? love the way they look and also what setting are on your bc coil on for them to fit. thanks
I'm looking to purchase a 2003 EX AWD Element from a friend. She's the single owner, 185k mileage. Regular maintenance has been kept up with some repairs over time (some of the bushings and sway bar end links). I'm not a skilled mechanic, but trying to do more and more maintenance and repairs on my vehicles. Would you say overall that I should be able to tackle most suspension/drive system repairs on my own with basic tools, a lift, and online guides? Short of needing an engine or transmission swap I imagine I can try and do most repairs to keep the cost of ownership low. Would you agree? Thanks!!
I would agree, depending on rust and a few other factors. Most of the body and suspension components could be seized. Just be careful before you dive head first into those jobs.
Aside from that enjoy it! You'll love it, it's a great car to learn how to wrench.
We haven’t had any trouble except for one broken bolt from the previous owner
Just found this channel, awesome stuff. Im ab to purchase an 04 Honda Element from my uncle out in Cali and it's got 175k miles and only one owner. Luckily, there haven't really been any rust-related issues since it's out there in the nice weather, but I'll be driving it around Michigan once I buy it. What are the top three things (or more) I should look for at it 1) gets older and more mileage and 2) starts dealing w the colder Mich weather? Thanks!
Hey James! Being Rust free is top priority, the rest of just insuring that regular maintenance has been done. Start the engine and let it idle, they're usually pretty noisy anyway. Ask if it's had a valve adjustment, I believe Honda recommended a valve adjustment between 120-150k but mine hasn't had it yet and it's over 200k. It'll just improve your gas mileage and make you engine run a bit smoother. As they age, they just have a few bushings that'll go, they'll let you know when they need to be changed they'll make a good clunk or rattle. 😄
James Hill Valves need to be adjusted around 90,000 to 100,000. Don’t think you can wait until something shows up. Money well spent.
I was extremely disappointed with the BC coilovers’! The seals blew after two years, twice!
Damn! That's wild, I've had mine for 8 years now without issue. I did have them too low at first, but I got it sorted and it's been great since.
Trying to decide between a FWD or AWD, primarily for car camping. Not sure if the moonroof is worth it, probably makes the vehicle hotter but also might cool it down when sleeping. I’ve had FWD all my life and I’m from Erie Pennsylvania, one of the snowiest cities and I could make due in a Toyota Corolla. I wonder if you lose a bit of clearance in the AWD cause doing some BLM camping I’ve been on some rough roads. Looking at 07/08, found a FWD with 175k $5000 overall runs good. I tested another that was misfiring. Probably the common clogged solenoid filter
Honestly both are great options the Element is big enough that your really don't need AWD.
dude a V6 Element would be dope. I also have a 2003 Element EX
That's the eventual goal with the other Element. Just need to get the channel moving!
Your RSX type S star wheels look bad ass on the E.
Thanks!