Interested in selling your old car and are located within the Washington DMV area msg me at Vehiclehunterz@gmail.com The top problems you will find in Honda Elements
I'm making a list of the disadvantages of watching this video. I have owned my '06 E since new. It now has 305,000 miles. I didn't buy it for fuel economy. Driver's seat is worn. I don't tow anything. 22 mpg isn't all that bad for the versatility and storage capacity this vehicle has. I have never had a problem getting parts. There is no rust anywhere, and my windshield has never leaked. I have a center console. I seldom carry any passengers. You sure whine a lot. Find another hobby.
I have a 2010 that I've owned since new. It now has 235,000 miles. I **do** use it for everything. Not thrilled about the mileage. Bought it in Nebraska; live in Oregon now. Had a trailer hitch installed when I bought my new vintage-style teardrop camper, which I can tow easily at 875 pounds. I use the sleep-in-ability I wouldn't say *all* the time, but it sure was handy night before last when I was stuck at a rest area because Interstate 5 unexpectedly shut down due to snow in the mountains. My dog is always with me and it's a breeze keeping the Element clean because of the Rubbermaid-style floors. I have a console with the "cooler chest" addition, which I regret. I thought I'd use it all the time, but no. My dog stands there all the time, and his fur collects dirt profusely which leaks right into the cooler, so the cooler chest is always full of dirt and dust no matter what I do. I've resigned myself to the fact that the cooler chest is a Dog CoPilot Station. The '10 Element has cloth seats, not vinyl, and they are aging, but all seats are still completely intact, even the driver's side. I do notice it's wearing, but it's fine so far. No rust anywhere; no leaky windshield. If you're having a leaky windshield problem, it's the fault of the last company that replaced the windshield! Take it back and have them reinstall it correctly. Never had a problem getting parts. Wouldn't want any other vehicle in the world. It takes me over the mountains safely, even when Oregon says "you must put your chains on here." Takes me through the Redwoods to the ocean, towing or not towing the teardrop camper. Takes me to a rest area where I can sleep in peace safely for a few hours and hop right back on the road. Hoping for another 235,000 miles!! And I should expect it with a Honda.
I say to people warching this video, please do more reasearch. I have never had peoblems finding parts, i can find them anywhere, and i always get them at honda dealer, they are not hard to find my windshild does not leak. And he says the maintenance is tough to keep up??? Ummm, WHAT? I do oil changes and add fluids, not tough at all. And parts are not expensive. 1 thing he said was accurate, which is gas mileage, is low concidering the new hybrids out there. This car is made to go out there and have fun take bikes, scooters ice cheast, ive been camping and set up a hanging shower with the tailgate open, i have slept in it, we throw our bikes on top and duffo bags, hiking boots ect. Easy to clean floors, and rubber mats seats are water proff.... we have been to the trails and taking road trips, this car is amazing !!!!!!
Shane Sexton yeah they have a used orange one at a dealer near me with a brush guard on front for 3k. It has a center console and alloy wheels but no sunroof. I dont know the mileage.
@@tammycato8260 best car in existence once you throw open all the doors and flip up the seats you will experience the true joy of owning such a beautiful piece of art. Also once you get used to it, super fun car to drive, something about the handling just feels right. Also, most elements will cost you wayyy under 10k, usually in the 5k range and they live for fuckin ever. Mine is going on 15 years and still feels brand new.
I purchased my Honda Element New in 2011,it has been a Great vehicle ,I have done nothing to this vehicle besides the required maintenance ,and 1 new set of tires
Check the weight limits on the vehicle for passengers and cargo as well. Honda makes every part for my 2004 Element still available, and aftermarket parts are plentiful. Most people who own the Element don’t have three kids...if they do, they buy something else. Where is this magical fleet of SUVs that averages 30mpgs?
I love our element and only hate 2 things about what I got. I wish it had stiffer springs in the back (or mines might be worn) also I wish I got the AWD That would have been the best for me
If you want to fit 3 kids in the back of an Element, I suggest having an upholstery shop modify the split rear seats with a custom cushion that converts them to a bench seat (easier than changing the seats themselves, and 'reversible'). The easiest way might be to have them make a single large cushion that just 'plugs in' to the cupholders, and spans from one side of the car to the other (maybe also attaching to the hinges on each side). The top side would look like a single bench seat cushion and the bottom would be contoured with extra thickness to fill in the low areas -- make sure the middle area over the cupholders/plastic has especially comfortable foam, otherwise nobody will want to sit in the middle. For additional comfort of the middle passenger, they could make another large cushion that goes all the way across the seat backs, and fills in the bucket shape between the bolsters, so that it's also like a bench seat. This can attach with straps or whatever, and have slots to plug the original headrests in. A non-adjustable middle headrest (simple = cheaper) can be part of the new cushion design. Or, they could connect the two original rear seat headrests, and turn it into one giant rear headrest. They can figure out something that works, or skip it. A lot of cars don't even have a rear middle headrest. Of course, you're going to want to add a seatbelt for the middle seat. This is too simple to bother explaining, but obviously the new cushion should have slots for all the seatbelts. If you take time to design this right, you'll have bench seating for three, and maintain the ability to fold the seats up, or remove them easily. As a bonus, your rear seats are going to look brand new, and have whatever choice of materials you prefer. Maybe choose something that's easy to wipe clean, if you have 3 kids. This is all going to be cheaper than buying a new vehicle, and it will add value to your existing vehicle. You might as well get the front seats reupholstered at the same time, if they need it.
I bought my 2010 Element EX new and have just over 58,000 miles on it. I've hardly had to do anything to it other than normal maintenance. I'd buy them forever if they still made them.
Honda did change the seats in 2007 all cloth, I have an ‘07 with 250,000kms on it and my seat is just fine. If you knew about the element you would know that.
I don't think this video is bashing the element folks. He's just stating the problems that potential buyers face. My 2003 honda element is still kicking with almost 200k on it and I am hoping to make it to 300k. It is the best vehicle I've ever owned. I have experienced the key issues and the seat issues. Another of my pet peeves is that on freeways the car has lots of wind noise so if you are enjoying music or audio you really have to turn it way up. I'm not gonna list my likes because there are far too many. there's plenty of other videos for that. The good on this car well outweighs the bad (for me) and I don't see another affordable car on the market currently that will suit my needs as well as my E.
When I first picked up my Honda it had a ton of wind noise as well. I pulled off the cross braces for the roof rack. That made it as quiet as any other car. If you have cross braces on the roof pull them off you'll be surprised.
@@jahbay I don’t have a roof rack and I have wind noise. I put AVS side rain guards on the front and helped but I plan on using sound deadening material on all the doors and the tailgate which should help. The seats are probably my pet peeve as they are terrible. I wouldn’t mind finding a set of seats from another car.
After watching this twice, I think I get what your trying to do - someone got mad at you for making laudatory videos about the Element and driving up the cost of Elements, or you’ve done so many of these, you,be decided to buy one yourself and your trying to drive the prices down. As to the starter, I had a mechanical engineer tell me long ago, “remember car companies design cars construction to build the cars the designers design, not to make it easy to REPAIR OR SERVICE the cars. There have been a whole litany of cars, SUV’s and other vehicles that have had far, far, far worse repair and even service issues than the issue with the starter with an Element. Anyone complaining about that has never had to work on the many, many modern era cars where the engine had to be unbolted from the frame to change spark plugs or change the oil. The minor work for an Element to replace the starter on one of the most modern engines ever built is nearly inexplicable. A car needing the shocks and or struts changed due to wear? Inconceivable !!! As to maintaining cars, the majority of Americans, don’t buy new cars every 3, 4, 5 or even 7 years now - they maintain beyond those intervals, and even though they might go 3 years, they still maintain them. The idea of maintaining and even repairing cars is a reality, Also, even though this maybe able to do some aspects of a pickup, a minivan, an economy car, it’s actually a pretty good true crossover, but it’s not any specific one! As to the complaint or perhaps the better word is caution, that as a discontent model, parts will be scarce - that’s one of the many miracles of the market; there are so many of them still out their, so there will be parts availability out there for at least the next 30 years Still no matter, if you don’t have or like an Element, there too expensive! If you have or like/appreciate Element, their not high enough (for trade in value alone).
Key? Who the fcuk uses a key? Tip: keep a fresh battery in your fob. Gas mileage: Keep it under 3500 rpm on the highway, I get 30 mpg when I do this... Parts: ANY CRV is good for parts. Same drive-train...
I've gotten 35 mpgs on the highway with mine. I must be a light foot lol. It doesn't get what it's rated for around town because it came with 18 inch tires and Honda rims that are very sweet looking but suck the mileage down to about 15 city unless I run it on mid grade. 35 mpg was achieved on premium gas. I only use premium in hot weather when a motor has to work harder
I own a 2005, it has 365k miles and still running great, suspension is worn out though and squeaks a lot but I don’t really care about that so I just turn up the radio and all that noise is gone. It doesn’t have great mileage though besides the fact that the tank is small. Other than that I love it, hope it reaches 400k miles.
suspension noises are not something to ignore. i did that once when i was young- big mistake. ball joint completely separated while driving. this is a good way to kill yourself or others. i strongly recommend you begin caring about it real quick
There are no reasons to buy any of the new garbage they are putting out. OVerpriced PURE CRAP. And that's why I can't find a good USED car, because everyone else and their mama's mama's little baby brother wants the SAME DAMN THING I WANT. I can't find anything within a 500 mile radius that's worth having. Nothing but overpriced CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE CRAP or 70 Thousand Dollar TRUCKS or boring and soul less mini vans in my area....whenever something truly interesting becomes available, either it gets SWOOPED before I can get to it, it's bait and switch ad by unscrupulous dealers, or there is something wrong with it such as a rusted out undercarriage....I HAVE NEVER IN MY LIFE HAD SO MUCH TROUBLE TRYING TO FIND A FREAKING GOOD USED CAR WITH A STRONG ENGINE AND A NORMAL FREAKING TRANSMISSION,,,,,THE KIND WE TOOK FOR GRANTED FOR SO MANY YEARS THAT THESE BASTARDS ARE DISCONTINUING AND RAMMING THEIR CVT GARGABE DOWN OUR THROATS!!!!!!!!!!! SO FRUSTRATED
@@VehicleHunter I mentioned a few of the Elements big flaws in my own post for this video. I speak from experience as an owner, and everything can be cross checked on the Element owners club forum. At the end of the day, I do love my Element but its vey far from flawless and I've had to replace lots of $$$ parts.
This guy is clueless. I have 307k on my 2003 element ex awd. I changed the starter, alternator, and radiator. Otherwise all routine maintenance. Easily the best car ever. I have owned 2 2003 crv's which both got well over 200k with the exact same drivetrain. Both still running. The windshield will chip, the seat may rip, big dam deal!
Parts are easier to find lately as they are now older and being parted out at wreckers. Also drivers seat were improved from cracking in 07. Gas mileage is excellent for a large vehicle as this, and I routinely get 23-26 in my 07 automatic. Expect to replace rear sway bar end links and bushings after about 100k as they start rattling going over speed bumps. They are cheap from ebay and easy to install. Windshields cracking improved after 04. Honda accord drive train so proven reliability. A great camper vehicle.
The rear links easier to install than the front? Mine needed an Allen wrench and were stripped. Had to cut them off and replace with others that I could use a socket wrench on.
this review is crap. the parts for this car can all still be found from the dealer and aftermarket for one huge reason... almost all these parts were interchangeable with other Hondas (CRVs) You have no clue what you're talking about. I've owned three and I'd buy another. and they are fun to wrench on as well.
If you follow this guys videos, you will see that he loves the Honda Element. He is clearly just making a video showcasing what is not perfect about the car so you can make a rational decision when purchasing one. I can't believe you have so many sensitive people commenting so negatively on this video! Ignore these fools... great video man!
Very true, the Element is my favorite vehicle. But like any other vehicle it isn't perfect. I do admire the passion element owners have in bashing me. It really makes me think i am right about this becoming a future classic :)
I agree. I've had two elements & I didnt get offended. Lol. He mentions several times even in this video that he appreciates the element. Take it easy people!!
A Denver area Honda dealer had a 2006 Honda Element (in 2016) on display. A woman had traded it in with 445,000 miles on it and zero problems. Physically, it was in decent shape too. The dealer was smart to use it as a Honda selling point. They had no intention of selling it.
Furthermore, there are PLENTY of used engines available that will drop right in to an Element. You can get them imported from Japan, with only about 40,000 miles on them (basically brand new), or you can get a junkyard motor from certain models of Honda Accord (or an Element, of course). These engines are everywhere, and cheap. This is the main reason I bought an Element. You can basically drive it forever, and then fix it cheaply and then drive it forever AGAIN.
Mine is currently 227,738k miles while commenting at a red light stop in New York City. The only problem I've not been able to solve is being able to align the rear wheels. My rear tires are always worn out on the inside.
I have a 2006 element real-time 4 wheel drive. Bose stereo with subwoofer below gear shift sounds awesome! and it is the best car / truck ever! Mine has 56,000 miles. Perfect condition. I actually love the car.
56k That thing isn't even broken in yet. You can get 300 easily as it has a timing chain and not a timing belt. Keep the oil changed and the first tune up isn't due until 100k miles and all that is is a spark plug change. It has iridium spark plugs dead easy to do yourself.
@@atypicalhiker I just change the alternator and most videos they did it from the bottom. I did it from the top and I only took about an hour and a half! I do actually have love for the element. It's so roomy inside and yet Nimble in parking lots and actually pretty quick I have automatic. Excellent in the rain and handles great!
tippy Dog what mileage did your alternator go out at? I am sitting at 144k miles so I can know about when to expect to change it. nevermind you said 56k my element was mfg in canada
@@atypicalhiker when you change it do it from the top! It only took me an hour and a half.. all you have to do is remove the coolant overflow and power steering pump. Most guys on RU-vid videos did it from the bottom and there's no need for that!
@@mandysteinback7387 Yeah she is fine. The eye thing is cherry eye and she shakes when she seems people, wants to get petted and when she is cold or nervous. She is a pampered princess.
the longer your video goes, the idiotic your comments get. WE SCAVENGE FOR PARTS because WE LOVE THIS VEHICLE and want to keep them running like new!!! the only stupid thing Honda did in 2014, was to stop producing this model. Also, they keep their resale price like not many other models/brands
The reason the windshield is leaking and rusting on your Element is b/c you had an amateur installer put in your vehicle. My seats are in good condition at 100k. I think you purchased the wrong vehicle for your needs. Bottom line. Trash vid 👎
I bought a 2003 Element new. 235,000+ miles later it is still going. The only repair I have had other than regular maintenance is a new alternator a few months ago. Great vehicle!
Sydney B. I have the 04, bought new, and closing in on 200k. Repairs beyond routine maintenance is a new starter (it was tough, but doable) suicide door latch cable, and a belt pulley. It’s due for some new shocks, but otherwise has been great. I keep waiting for something worthy of replacing it with...so far have found nothing!
I have an 03 with 299k on it. driver and passenger seat worn. and needs a second O2 sensor to be perfect. Other than that this is the best car. I wish Honda hadn't stop it. this is the car for 2020. U can move full sectional couches in this clown car 😂. I'd recommend getting awd though; you would be unstoppable after that.
@@tebibyte2357 It's hard to complain about a car that lasts SO LONG that the seats wear out. Have you ever had a pair of shoes or pants that never wore out? It's not a reasonable expectation, especially if the drivetrain is so reliable that they easily go for 200,000-300,000 miles. The driver's seat usually gets the most wear and is first to get a hole (obviously). You can have it totally reupholstered for a few hundred bucks, or if you're a cheapskate, take the upholstery off, DIY... and have an upholstery shop replace the fabric panel that has a hole in it, for far less (probably $50-$100). Problem solved. Or, if you're a major cheapskate, you can buy the right kind of sewing machine and reupholster it on your own. This will end up being cheaper, if you want to do all the seats, or if you have more than one car that needs it. It's not terribly hard, and nowadays there's plenty of learning material on youtube. Buy a used machine, and maybe sell it after you're done for about what you paid for it. Then you only have your time, and cost of materials into the job.
I love my Element. It accepts two bicycles with the wheels attached, my fishing gear, my wife's three suitcases, my suitcase, backpack, a small ice chest, and a box full of snacks. I knew of the possible problems, such as those named here, but I didn't care. I get around 27-28 miles per gallon with the rpms in the 3300-3500 range. My Element is a five-speed stick AWD model. I do all the maintenance work. Online videos show how do the more difficult repairs. Maintenance costs have been low. Oh yes, my Element makes a handy little cabin with the seats removed. I will not sell my Element.
I also have a 5 speed manual with AWD and get about 30 mpg around town, by driving carefully (push the clutch in and coast) and taking out the extra seats for less weight. They're easily removable. Also driving about 55 mph on the highway, instead of 70 or 80.
New Element owner here. If you live in the rust belt, check the oil pan before you buy. It may not seem like a big deal, but the repair is much more involved than you may estimate. If the oil pan is fine, apply a thick grease to protect it from rust.
I’m looking at your Element & wondering what in the hell you are expecting from a 4cyl vehicle of that age... mine is a 2006, I live in a very rural area, I have ZERO problem getting parts. What is it that you’re replacing that you’re fighting other people for? I can direct you to a variety of resources, if you need help. Also, this vehicle wasn’t marketed toward families- at some point it becomes the buyer’s responsibility to make sure a vehicle suits their lifestyle, not the manufacturer’s. I also noticed you mention poor gas mileage a few times, but not the 2 main factors that contribute to it- both actually being assets (vertical profile & AWD). I’ll give you the problem with the front seat material- but other than that, I think you’re being unrealistic about a used vehicle at that price point, my dude. I’d be happy to take it off your hands for a fair price.
22-25 MPG? Beats the hell out of my FJ Cruiser @ 13MPG around town and 16MPG on the highway (no performance mods or lifts, either). My wife's Element is rock solid at 14 years old. Only replaced one windshield and just last week a starter (otherwise normal maintenance) at 225K Miles. Love that little booger. Where are you finding these rusty Elements? I live in WV and haven't found a rusty one yet (my old Honda Ridgeline...different story...rust bucket at 125K miles).
We are in the same sort woods. And in DC everything seems to be a rust bucket. Definatly the 90's vehicles that i really like are rusting badly. Maybe its my luck.
@@VehicleHunter I hear that. I'm in the Eastern Panhandle, not too far from DC. Just haven't seen the rust problems personally. I think MD must use some sort of magic salt or something...every car I have purchased out of there had rust issues.
I know this is an old post...but I too have an FJ Cruiser and about to purchase a Honda Element as a second vehicle because I wanted something quirky and it's gets much better mileage than my FJ. Thanks for the tip about vehicles in Maryland because one of the rides I was looking at was from that location...originally wanted a Gen 1 Ridgeline but heard about the rust and the dead pedal being in the way. Anyway just wanted to say thanks for the post!
LOL, I get about 30 MPG around town, (no joke) with my 5 speed AWD Element. I just push the clutch in and coast, instead of racing from stoplight to stoplight. It gets about 30 mpg on the highway too, if I drive 55 mph instead of 70. Oh yeah, the seat are easily removable, so I took them out to get better mileage. I'm not familiar with whether the FJ's seats pop right out.
Never had a leak but the windshield always gets rock chips because of the angle of the glass. It has horrible ground clearance for off road. As far as pulling I pulled a standard uhaul up the grapevine on I_5 with no problem. The headlights are horrible the fuel mileage is not good for a Honda and the five speed needs a sixth gear. I still will never get rid of mine as it is the most useful practical car I have ever owned.
This dude just bought bad cars because I have a 2003 ( original Element ) that don't have leaky front window, my driver seat isn't worn like that, my key opens all my doors fine, no rust anywhere, I live in Florida have drove to NYC twice moved to KY and back to FL with my 2003 Element loaded full to capacity both ways doing 75-80 Mph and my Honda is 17 years old.....🤔 what's his issue ???
mine has 300000 FOR SALE a few problems with the car for a long time i just live with it...torgue converter and tires wearing in the back. but i like the ELEMENT I WOULD BUY ANOTHER if i could find it.
Just bought one for my 18yr old son 2 days ago. It's an 05 and exactly like the gray one in the video. One advantage of buying one of these used is that a large % of people who own them now are fanatical for these cars.The previous owner of mine certainly was as were the owners of 2 others I looked at. 149k miles with meticulous records of an open checkbook maintenance history. In the last year he did all new brakes, tires, struts, tie rod ends and sway bar links, replaced every suspension bushing and installed a killer stereo will a 7" touchscreen, all new speakers and a backup camera. It's a 16 yr old car looks (including the seat) and rides like it's a yr old. He can carry 3 friends and gear, or 1 friend, their mountain bikes, camping gear and they can sleep in the back of they want to. It's dependable, utilitarian, the perfect car to move away to college in and my son thinks it's totally cool. And for all that I paid $6,500 which may be the best "bang for your buck" car I've ever bought.
You got a great deal! I have a 05 Element with 170k on it and was just quoted $2500 for sway bars, etc .like you said previous owner did. I declined at the time but my element Sqeaks and moans over any uneven pavement. After I turn it off it continues to growl making low pitched complaints!
Either I buy a $4000 Honda element which gets 20to 25 miles per gallon or buy a 2019 vehicle which costs over $30-$40,000. That’s a no brainer don’t you think?
Thats the way I think about it. A Honda Element will work really well, and I still have yet to see a vehicle that matches it for usefulness and be as cool. But... I also wish it got better mpg, makers now are putting 6-8 spd auto transmissions to help with mpg. I wouldn't mind that for these box shaped vehicles.
I have a 2004 Honda Element with 20700 miles on it. I haven’t had to make car payments for 10 years. The chief benefit to owning a reliable, long lasting vehicle.
So if I buy an element I need to get a puppy to stuff under me in the driver seat? Or do elements come with a puppy? Cause that's fine with me. I'd like a puppy
this video is bad. You're a pessimist. All the things that you talked about is common wear in tear. FYI: The shocks in all cars goes bad. Is a mechanical device. Compared to other similar SUV this is one of the best. I had one for 10 years and drove 212,000 miles. I gave you thumbs down.
Never heard of a leaking windshield on an E. I'm on my 3rd, my girlfriend has 2 (her son drives one), my roommate and best buddy are all in elements. No leaky windshields. The starters is easy to get to, at least for a mechanic, maybe not this guy. Finding parts is extremely easy too, maybe not for this guy (again). The front strut mounts wear out on E's, but he failed to mention that. Nutshell, it's a great car and you'll fall in love with it too. I was selling my 1st E, and a buyer couldn't stop down grading my E. (Trying to talk me down on price) He ended up offering more than I was asking, and he didn't get my beloved E. Tip - never talk down on an E that the seller still loves and doesn't want to sell in the 1st place. You won't get an E that way.
@@hxhdfjifzirstc894 is an asshole. You can tell by hiding his name like the kkk hides their faces. It’s a brilliant car. Strong, fast, reliable, affordable. The E changed the auto industry, look at all the copy cat cars. I think dudeski had a girlfriend break his heart, she drove an. E. Maybe he was prison raped by an E?? His dislike of the car is his own misery, not the car.
Im surprised that he didn't mention the other main problem... that when you drive a lot - the tires will slowly wear down and you'll need to buy new tires in about 50K miles... tisk tisk, who would have thought that tires wear down when you use them... This guy must have been looking for parts at a Subaru dealership...
i just crashed this car going 55mph flipped it and slid 40 feet on the roof (?) and walked away with a broken thumb. i don’t know about you but i’d say that car is a tank
I purchased my Honda Element New in 2011,it has been a Great vehicle ,I have done nothing to this vehicle besides the required maintenance ,and 1 new set of tires, it still has the original Battery with 99,000 miles . I used this Element to move my Shop with a Small trailer, It took 42 - 100 mile round trips to complete the move, 1 item was a 2200 lb. Horizontal Mill ,The Element handled this task with no problems . My Element is named - Elmer - and I Love Him.
Well owning Honda elements from 2003 to 2019 I have had very few issues. I live in the snowy northeast also. The 2003 to 2011 Honda element has the same exact underpinnings as the 2003 to 2006 Honda CRV. All the suspension parts are the SAME. Control Arms to struts to brakes to rotors to ............. These use the same ENGINE and TRANSMISSION as Honda accord in the corresponding years K24A through K24E . (also front brake calipers). If you lubricate the locks on a regular basis you will have no issues with them. I did replace the struts on my 2003 element after 10 years of driving it. I dove a 2003 Honda element from March of 2004 through March of 2015 with 249000 miles. I bought a 2009 Honda element and put of 114000 miles on it so far. It is basically a 2006 Honda CRV.
You can keep wishing but it won't happen. They want to force everyone into their crappy designed to FAIL after a few years CVT transmission garbage so they can then force everyone to buy electric cars that have to be plugged up at a service station and only go 60 miles one way before you have to plug it up again. And it will all be billed on your ELECTRIC BILL, all owned by the same billionaire psychopaths (Rothschilds) who want to completely control and cull us, saving on few to be their slaves. IT's coming. All because people are too STUPID to see what's happening and allow the media and puppet politicians to do their thinking for them.
Love my Element, tows my small boat/kayaks just fine. The starter is a pain to replace but that’s a 200,000mile part normally. Mine went out at about 195,000.
fussy- butt.. Its honda quality and big and boxy for those who occasionally move furniture.. It has some issues, like aerodynamics that prevent high top speed at indy, but who cares. Also, Honda has all parts for all model years. Its rarety is an asset that will keep resale high, like all other Honda.
Your seats are wearing like that because you're short and drag your ass across the seat. You can buy an OEM Honda drivers arm rest with a storage console for $100 and it bolts on in 10 minutes.
I cannot even believe that you made this video. There are millions of these vehicles and they now have a full cult following. My favorite line was at 3:37 "It doesn't pull like a pickup truck would". I hate to tell you this, but the Honda Element is not a pickup truck. It also doesn't corner like a Lamborghini Countach....nor does it have as much space or headroom of a Sprinter...nor does it haul as many people as a 3-row minivan....Oh also, it can't climb rocks like a dirt bike...I guess it can't go as fast as a Bugatti Veyron too...and it doesn't have the ground clearance of a Hummer H1. And you know what....that's probably because it's not any of those vehicles. If you want a truck, buy a truck. If you want a vehicle that seats 5, 6, or 7...buy such a vehicle. If you want a car that gets 40mpg, then buy a damn piece of crap Prius. But if you are looking for an all-wheel-drive, intermediate SUV, that's more reliable than most on the road, that has removable seats, can be easily converted into a camper, that can get washed out with a garden hose, and gets decent enough gas mileage for its age, then you'd be hard-pressed to find a better vehicle. And speaking of gas mileage, I looked up 4 intermediate AWD SUV's from that same era and found that only one got even close to the same gas mileage. It was the RAV4 which got 22mpg and isn't anywhere nearly as versatile. The other three intermediate SUV"s got 15, 15, and 17mpg.
Yep, it is not a fair comparison to demand the Element be like a modern suv. I have a 05 and you have to ply it off my cold dead hands. 😀. I do not have to rent a truck to haul 4x8 plywood, 2 by 4s, garden dirt, washer & dryers from Craigslist, Xmas tree, etc for weekend projects. That alone saves me $$$. Also, the headroom is 🤯 vs all the newer models with curved design and no headrooms.
@@pazu8728 Same story here. I also have a pickup and love this vehicle. 2004 with 185,000 miles. Still does great. I converted ours into a camper. We love it.
Based on the Honda K series engine, this is one of the most reliable vehicles of all time. I have an 05 with 185,000 miles and still going strong. Replaced my starter from below (there are some great RU-vid videos on this repair). Because it's a 4 cylinder just about everything else is easy to get to and repair. Do not have problem with rust or leaky windshield, but I live in Texas. The windshield, however, is very vertical, so it is common to get stone chips. This is truly the Swiss Army knife of vehicles!
@@Gsrsourkrause The 'vehicle' is not an engine. He was saying the vehicle is 'based' on the K series engine -- which is true. The Elements all came with some kind of K series engine -- exactly which engine, in particular, varies by year. The later relevant K series engine variants have a few more horsepower. If you want to be pedantic, WE CAN GET PEDANTIC. Just checking.
This was one of the worst car reviews I have watched. This guy is describing what almost every car eventually will face with normal wear and tear. For instance, the rust, car seat wearing, and whatever else this guy is talking about. This vehicle was build for its versatility, rugged outdoor lifestyle. He also mentions something about the seats wearing out on every element he's owned and so many negative things to say about this vehicle. If he is so unhappy with it, then why does he keep purchasing another?
It wasn't a review. But from a list of faults the element typically has. I know some element owners might have their panties in a bunch. But just get over it. It's not perfect.
I love my Element. Bought New 2005 and still own it. Be sure and have your differential fluid changed at 80K. If not you could be looking at a costly repair. We it starts going bad you will hear a wishing sound from the rear. There is a way to repair it without replacing the differential part at $3200.oo. Your mechanic will need to find the bulletin that Honda put out on it. Still you are looking at a $400.oo repair. I know it happened to me.
This vehicle has one of the most reliable engines ever made. People have gotten 500k, 600k, I've seen even 800k from owners. But yeah, trash it because the doorlock sticks once every 10 years.
There isn't any trashing of the vehicle in the video. Simple pointing out some of it's weaknesses. It's a great car and my favorite Honda of all time. But it's not perfect.
I’ve got a 2008 GMC Sierra and I replaced the old vinyl/cloth with leather for $1k. The Element wouldn’t be too tough to me. I’ve had loads of old cars and now I find myself living by myself. My Vanagon can’t be trusted . This may be my go to.
It wasn't the intention. But just some things to watch out for. The Element is my favorite Honda. But I always look at problems with everything. It's a gift ;)
This video is ridiculous. Some of the Honda elements I'm looking at are around 20 years older hovering ... The things that he's talking about are just normal wear and tear and the aging of metal and parts wear out my friend wow this is 6 minutes and 16 seconds of my life I won't get back😂👎🏽
I love my 2003 Element. I bought it new back then and it has 230,000 trouble free miles on it. The problems You pointed are pointless. The windshields on the early models were replace under warranty be cause the glass cracked to easy. Overall I think Your facts were very SCĀRCE!
The critiques you are finding are minimal at best. Aside from the starter location. As for the seating, I think any family searching for a car will notice the maximum occupancy right off. This car was NOT designed for families. In fact, it was marketed toward young adults which backfired because they were the ones who could afford new cars the least. That audience was only reached when the used ones started going up for sale. You actually failed to mention the biggest problem with the Element and that is its capacity for rusting in the winter salt belt.
My windshield has never leaked, however it tends to pick up rocks and I’ve had to replace it several times. The key problem can be avoided by simply using a fob with the power locks.
The main wear parts (suspension, steering, bearings, brakes etc) have never been hard to find as the Element shares a lot with the CRV (same platform).
My 2003 was bought sight unseen from salvage in fla. With 12000 miles. on it. I repaired it using all Honda parts ...including shipping to Oklahoma City it was around $8K...that was in 2005...it has been a wonderful car...I've never found anything I needed to haul that I couldn't fit it the back...every once in a while I change the oil..serpentine belt ..CV joints once....tires ect...it had never let me down....It's nearing 150 k miles and I was glad to read in a comment that they can go 445k... Its so fun to drive and I love the 5 speed..I don't pay much attention to people who don't appreciate them I was lucky to get one...
I’ve never heard anyone have so much wrong with their Element, I have heard a lot of the elements having bad seats.I’m so in love with mine and only had brakes done. It runs great and my seats look new still.
One of the things I don't like about owner reviews is that they are almost always favorable and feel biased because they bought the car. I try to look at things from an outside perspective. I do love the Element, but it's far from perfect. If honda kept making them perhaps there would be improvements as they aged. Great cars, but nothing is perfect. Besides im a complainer :)
Vehicle Hunter absolutely agree with you, just stating my love for this vehicle. I’ve had a Mercedes truck, Eddie Bauer van and I would have to say this vehicle I loved the most. I do need to get a second vehicle though because the grandkids are coming in there’s no space lol
I think it's funny you said you were in love with your element. Because I say the same thing and even look at it like I'm in love with it LOL and my seats are absolutely perfect! Well they're mine only has 56,000 miles. And it just snowed yesterday and it is awesome driving in it.
I didn't even have to replace the brake pads until my '08 had nearly 200k miles on it. May say more about my driving habits than the brakes, though. It now has almost 240k on it. I wish they were still made because I would love to get a new one.
The Honda Element! I have rebuilt several and I really enjoy driving them. Sure this review talks about gas mileage, hey they weigh in at 3400 pounds with a small 4 cylinder engine. We always get 22 / 25 MPG. I just rebuilt a 2010, parts were hard to get, had almost 300K miles ran great. I didn't even have it listed for sale, and a man walked up and drove it. His daughter had to have it, made me an offer I could not refuse. I am doing 2011 now. My wife and I found a red one a couple years ago. The person bought it new, and ran it into the garage door. We fixed it and love driving it. I am a full GM guy. I love the GM trucks and cars, but these Honda Elements are great. If I had a kid driving to school, they would be in an Element. They have big windows, big tail lights and headlights, and they have a very tight turning radius. One thing I have noticed on the Element is the Left Rear suspension. If you drive in salted roads you will need to wash under the car well. I always under coat these vehicles. Yep they have a few small problems but hit the key and go, what more could you ask for?
Notably, the Element has the same interior space as a Toyota 4Runner, which gets about 16 MPG! It's also more nimble and easier to U-turn, drive, etc. Sure, it doesn't have the off-road capability of the 4Runner, but it is just as reliable. How many people actually spend much time off-roading? I've had four Elements, and all are reliable and require little repairs or maintenance relative to other SUVs I've owned. IMHO, the Element is one of the best cars ever made, especially if utility and low cost are important to you!
The Element is more than capable. It’s also not a pickup truck, if you need one of those you should buy a truck. As far as vehicle height for towing, the Element can easily be lifted to give you more ground clearance. There’s also no reason why you would need to become a parts vulture, as parts are readily available.
I just brought my first honda element it’s 2004 and it’s a 2007 ! I appreciate this video but nothing so bad that I wouldn’t want my element ! I’ll keep you updated but I’m sure excited about having this car!!!!
The Vehicle Hunter is a true ASSet for those searching for this type of vehicle. We've had ours since 2008 and we love it. Like our bodies and most other machines on this planet, it simply needs regular maintenance. Apparently there are a few people who think the need for regular maintenance is some how an indication of low quality. They should avoid all vehicles.
I'm the original owner of a 2004 Element, looks just like the one in the video (except my seats are still just fine). I agree with all these reasons not to buy one, and would add that the suicide doors are stupid, they make it difficult to use the back seat in a parking lot situation. You have to open the front and rear doors, and back seat passengers are mystified by the hidden rear door hidden handles... It’s overweight for the little engine. I think if they'd shoehorned a 6 in there it would probably get better mileage. Also forgot to mention the driver seat mount always goes bad. In a cross wind (or even with no cross wind) it's a chore to keep it pointed straight on the interstate, and the seats are not designed for long trips. But... do I regret buying it? No way. It parks like a Civic. I can stick several bikes in the back without taking it apart. It will carry my Yuba Mundo if I push the front passenger seat all the way to the front. I have carried plywood sheets in it (not legally, but...) My dream vehicle is more like my old VW Kombi. But those cars were prone to breakdowns, incredibly unsafe in a crash. It does OK in city traffic, will carry a boatload of stuff, feels fairly safe (I know the brakes in mine work great after someone pulled out in front of me on the freeway with three passengers and they screamed like they were about to die but didn't because the brakes are good) and they look kinda awesome. Disclaimer: I came across this video looking for how-tos on replacing the starter. I can manage that, just trying to figure out if I'm going to do it the factory way or remove the intake manifold. :)
Yes, please avoid the Element ... we've had 4 ... my first one saved my life when a reckless kid hit me head on. We still have 3 and are looking for another.
Dont listen to this guy. These and the CRV are built like little bricks. I have a 99 crv with 200k+ miles. Just a heck of a little car. Kicks ass in the snow too.
I bought a 06 Element EXP new. At first the style was polarizing but I got used to it. I found the seats were to squishy and missed carpet on the floors. It was basically a Civic level trim level which was too basic for me. I traded it in for a new ‘08Caddy. Millage in both cars was the same. While I grew tired of the Caddy. The Element was not for me. Had sold it and I moved on.🏖️
My first Element a 2003 I actuall just got back after giving it to my brother/nephew with 332,000 now is back in CA with 372,000 and he drove back from NY in June. 5 speed manuel I got in 2007 with 63,000 k. All these issues are real in the video; but I love these cars so much I acutally have 4. This 2003 one wth 373,000k, Mine 2010 AWD with 225,000 my wife's 2010 with 160,000 and one i keep in my Nor Cal house . They are the most practical cars, Yes they are high risk Catalitic convertor theft, windshileds catch rocks, I have had the key issues (but get the fobs to lessen key use in the first place), the struts go out.. etc... but taking the back seats out it can be a van size space. Have driven 12 hours into baja on my AWD too.
Dude I own a 2019 Acura RDX and only two people can fit in the back . Lol also they stopped making the element in 2011 . So that makes the last production car almost 12 years . Every car falls a apart .
With the exception of the drivers seat, most of the ‘issues’ are things that are regular maintenance. No families with 3 kids are buying this and it wasn’t intended to be a family car. You can find a lot of parts for these. They are basically a CRV built like a brick. I’ve had no issues. Yes the starter sucks and the knock sensor, but show me a vehicle where there isn’t a specific repair that’s hard to do. I’d rather have an easy time with frequent maintenance jobs than rarer ones. Also it’s a long time before they need replaced. The hitch is one of the easiest to install as well. It takes more effort to find disadvantages over advantages. For me it’s the bast I’ve ever owned. The suspension was easy to work on but I wish I could adjust the camber on the rear wheels that didn’t require changing out the upper control arms. I have an all black 2006 EXP. 230k
He is stating the obvious, I have a 2006 so naturally it will have worse millage than a more modern vehicle. So mine is 17 years old and apart from normal upkeep, oil changes, breaks filters, we have only had to get a new starter motor. The faults don't lie with the vehicle, my wife and I have traveled many times sleeping in it and camping. The fault lies with Honda that didn't see a market for it. What would be cool to see is a fuel tank maybe twice the size and a 6 cylinder motor. Ours cruises at high speeds nicely without pushing itself and feels comfortable at all speeds. When our 2004 was rear ended and written off, my wife insisted that I get another Element. True its not a family car, and even with 2 kids it would be hard to stow all that was needed for a trip of any length. On the plus side it has a tighter turn radius than a Corolla, and fits nicely into small car spots. I love being able to sit up straight with such amazing vision in all directions.
I have never owned a better vehicle, in any way. The windshield leak was an EASY fix. Glass replacement for any insurance plan is FREE. ! The repair man did a very simple weather stripping and…no more leak! And the shocks…lol, after 19 years, um, yeah the shocks go bad 😜
