History/Description: Aimed squarely at value-minded weekend adventurer types, the Honda Element was designed to offer reliable versatility and all-weather driving confidence. Available all-wheel drive and a flexible cabin with thoughtful touches helped Element connect with outdoorsy couples, pet lovers and families alike. It was largely enjoyed by folks from many active lifestyles.
This 4-seater got the same engine as the CR-V on which it was based—namely, a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder VTEC unit with 160 or 166 horsepower, depending on the year. Transmission choices included a 4 or 5-speed automatic as well as a 5-speed manual. The slightly higher power output and additional gear for the automatic transmission came into play for 2007. A 5-speed manual and 4-wheel drive combination was possible.
Reverse-hinged rear doors and no centre pillar created a large opening into the vehicle. Removable rear seats added flexibility too. Other feature content included tire pressure monitoring, tinted glass, remote entry, satellite radio, electronic stability control (VSA), power accessories, cruise control and more.
What Owners Like: Generous cargo-carrying capacity, overall flexibility, gas mileage, styling and a solid, fun-to-drive feel are typically reported by Element’s owners. Manoeuvrability, bad-weather traction and a commanding view of the road are also praised.
What Owners Dislike: Blind spots, low towing capacity, modest power output and the 4-seat cabin are among the most common complaints of the Element. Some owners wish for better gas mileage, while others complain of wind and road noise levels at speed that are higher than expected.
Common Issues With A Used Honda Element: When test driving your used Element, be sure the keys work properly in all door locks, and ensure the remote works as expected. Make sure the tailgate opens, closes and latches properly with no slamming, too. Note that the key problems mainly affected earlier models.
Check the interior and exterior for signs of excessive wear, noting any cracking, ripping or peeling of seat material, excessive scraping or scuffing to the door sills or cargo area trim, and wear to the vehicle’s carpeting. Check that all interior accessories work as expected, too.
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| 2005 Honda Element (Photo: Honda) |
This 4-seater got the same engine as the CR-V on which it was based—namely, a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder VTEC unit with 160 or 166 horsepower, depending on the year. Transmission choices included a 4 or 5-speed automatic as well as a 5-speed manual. The slightly higher power output and additional gear for the automatic transmission came into play for 2007. A 5-speed manual and 4-wheel drive combination was possible.
Reverse-hinged rear doors and no centre pillar created a large opening into the vehicle. Removable rear seats added flexibility too. Other feature content included tire pressure monitoring, tinted glass, remote entry, satellite radio, electronic stability control (VSA), power accessories, cruise control and more.
What Owners Like: Generous cargo-carrying capacity, overall flexibility, gas mileage, styling and a solid, fun-to-drive feel are typically reported by Element’s owners. Manoeuvrability, bad-weather traction and a commanding view of the road are also praised.
What Owners Dislike: Blind spots, low towing capacity, modest power output and the 4-seat cabin are among the most common complaints of the Element. Some owners wish for better gas mileage, while others complain of wind and road noise levels at speed that are higher than expected.
Common Issues With A Used Honda Element: When test driving your used Element, be sure the keys work properly in all door locks, and ensure the remote works as expected. Make sure the tailgate opens, closes and latches properly with no slamming, too. Note that the key problems mainly affected earlier models.
Check the interior and exterior for signs of excessive wear, noting any cracking, ripping or peeling of seat material, excessive scraping or scuffing to the door sills or cargo area trim, and wear to the vehicle’s carpeting. Check that all interior accessories work as expected, too.
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| 2007 Honda Element (Photo: Honda) |