How many problems does the 2004 HONDA Element have?

The 2004 HONDA Element currently has 280 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2004 HONDA Element?

The most common problems reported for the 2004 HONDA Element are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2004 HONDA Element problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2004 HONDA Element comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

2004 HONDA Element Problems

VISIBILITY

100 complaints

MY HONDA ELEMENT HAS HAD TWO WINDSHIELDS REPLACED AND NOW A CRACK AGAIN AT THE BASE MOVING UP. STRESS CRACKS NOT FOREIGN MATERIAL HITTING THE CAR. I SIMPLY CANNOT AFFORD A 500 DEDUCTIBLE TO GET ANOTHER WINDSHIELD..... *TR

Mar 23, 2011

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEATING SYSTEM FAILED. THE CONTACT MADE REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLE AND INQUIRED WITH THE MANUFACTURER IN REGARDS TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE AND PROVIDED NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 124,000.

Dec 22, 2010

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW FELL DOWN AND WILL NOT CLOSE. THE MOTOR IN THE WINDOW WAS MOVING, BUT THE WINDOW WOULDN'T. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE WINDOW WAS NOT COVERED BY THE WARRANTY OR ANY RECALLS. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED SINCE VEHICLE WAS NOT SECURE WITH THE WINDOW STUCK IN THE OPEN POSITION. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 22300. UPDATED 01/28/11*LJ

Nov 10, 2010

I OWN A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT I HAVE REPLACED THE WINDSHIELD 4 TIMES DUE TO THE WINDSHIELD GETTING HIT BY A STONE OR PEBBLE IT CRACKS SO EASILY. I HAVE OWNED MANY VEHICLES IN MY 35 YEARS OF DRIVING BUT HAVE NEVER HAD A VEHICLE THAT THIS HAPPENS TO SO FREQUENTLY. I REPORTED IT TO THE TWO DIFFERENT GLASS REPLACEMENT COMPANIES I USED CHECKING TO SEE IF THE GLASS WAS DEFECTIVE. OF COURSE THEY USE COMPANY OEM REQUIRED GLASS. *TR

Apr 14, 2010

WINDSHIELD HAS CRACKED 3 TIMES WHILE DRIVING DOWN TO ROAD. INSURANCE HAS REPLACED THE WINDSHIELD. *TR

Apr 30, 2008

+ 95 more complaints for this component

AIR BAGS

63 complaints

I drive a 2004 Honda Element and on Friday 2/3/23 I was in a car accident where I t-boned a car going 25 mph and my airbags did NOT deploy.

Feb 06, 2023

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

The contact owns a 2004 Honda Element. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer to repair under the Takata recall. Several few months after the air bag repair, the driver’s side curtain air bag deployed without incident and without warning while driving at 65 MPH. The contact pulled off the highway and found no visible damage or reason for the deployment. The contact had taken the vehicle back to the dealer on two separate occasions for an inspection; however, the contact was never given a cause for the failure. The contact then took the vehicle to an independent mechanic who refused to service the vehicle since the cause of the deployment had not been determined. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Nov 24, 2021

air bag light stays on

Sep 26, 2021

CAR WAS PARKED IN A PULLOUT ON THE SIDE OF A HIGHWAY. SLAMMING REAR DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR CAUSED DRIVER'S SEAT AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. NO COLLISION OCCURRED.

Jan 26, 2020

Injuries: 1

PASSENGER SEAT AIRBAG DEPLOYED WHILE DRIVING LESS THAN 5 MPH AND NOT INVOLVED IN ACCIDENT. NO DAMAGE TO VEHICLE, EXCEPT TORN SEAMS IN SEAT FROM AIRBAG. THIS HAPPENED WHILE TRAVELING ON GRAVEL ROAD TO LAKE HOUSE, RIGHT FRONT TIRE HIT POT-HOLE, CAUSING THE BAG DEPLOYMENT. INAPPROPRIATE SENSITIVITY IN AIRBAG SENSOR OR FAULTY AIRBAG SEEMS TO BE THE CAUSE. HUGHES HONDA IN ATHENS, GA. STATES THEY WILL NOT REPAIR SINCE THIS IS NOT A RECALL ISSUE.

Sep 04, 2019

+ 58 more complaints for this component

SEATS

21 complaints

MY DRIVER SIDE SEAT WILL ROCK BACK AND FORTH. I HAVE TIGHTENING BOLTS UNDER SEAT BUT CAME LOOSE AGAIN. BEEN LIKE THIS FOR AWHILE.

Feb 15, 2020

DRIVER'S SEAT ROCKS BACK AND FORTH.

Mar 23, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S FRONT DRIVER SEAT WOULD ROCK SIMILAR TO A ROCKING CHAIR. THE FIRST TEAM HONDA DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRACK FOR THE SEAT FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL FOR THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 44,000.

Jun 05, 2017

PURCHASED VEHICLE FROM A DEALER ABOUT A YEAR AGO+. DRIVER AND PASSENGER FRONT SEAT ALWAYS ROCKED SLIGHTLY AND TODAY I WAS DRIVING CAME TO A TRAFFIC LIGHT AND DRIVER SEAT UNLOCKED AND PUSHED FORWARD! IF THERE HAVE BEEN A VEHICLE IN FRONT THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN AN ACCIDENT! MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE! PLEASE HELP...WHAT WOULD THESE COST ME TO REPAIR? HOW DO I PROCEED?

May 24, 2017

FRONT DRIVERS SEATS HAS BEEN ROCKING BACK AND FORTH, I ASKED ABOUT THE SERVICE BULLLETIN , SINCE NOT A RECALL I WOULD HAVE TO FIX, ELEMENT IS ONE OWNER WITH 70,000 MILES

Jul 11, 2016

+ 16 more complaints for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

11 complaints

WHILE DRIVING OR OUT OF PARK POSITION IGNITION KEY CAN BE REMOVED.ALSO WHILE IN PARK EITH SWITCH IN ON PODSITION THE IGNITION KEY CAN BE REMOVED. I HAVE HAD IGNITION SWITCH FIXED TWICE WITHIN A 6 MONTH PERIOD. FIRST TIME OCCURRED SEPTEMBER 9 , 2019 OTHER TIME WAS MARCH,2020.

Jul 20, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. UPON ENTERING THE VEHICLE AND INSERTING THE KEY INTO THE IGNITION, THE KEY FAILED TO TURN TO START THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO NALLEY HONDA BRUNSWICK (178 ALTAMA CONNECTOR, BRUNSWICK, GA 31525 (912) 267-7000) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A FAULTY IGNITION THAT NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10V364000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.

Oct 11, 2017

THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH CONNECTOR OVERHEATED AND MELTED AT ITS TERMINAL WITH THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH RESULTING IN THE RANDOM FAILURE OF MY HEADLIGHTS WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT. AFTER SEARCHING MORE ABOUT THIS PARTICULAR ISSUE, I FOUND THAT THE SAME ISSUE RESULTED IN A RECALL OF THE PART IN 2001/2002 HONDA CIVICS (EXPORT SERVICE BULLETIN 04-015, APRIL 2004). THE SOLUTION, "REPLACE THE COMBINATION LIGHT SWITCH, THE RED/WHT WIRE IN THE HEADLIGHT WIRE HARNESS AND, IF NEEDED, THE 16P HEADLIGHT WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR." I VERIFIED THAT IT IS THE SAME RED/WHT WIRE THAT OVERHEATED IN THE CONNECTOR. WHY IS MY 2004 HONDA ELEMENT NOT COVERED BY THIS RECALL?

Feb 07, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START ON THE FIRST ATTEMPT. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT AFTER SEVERAL TIMES THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO START. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100. UPDATED 2/24/15*CN UPDATD 03/03/15

Dec 15, 2014

2004 HONDA ELEMENT. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEM WITH VEHICLE IGNITION *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALER, BECAUSE THE IGNITION WAS FROZEN AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS LOCKED. HE WAS ABLE TO INSERT AND REMOVE THE KEY, BUT IT DID NOT FUNCTION. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED BY ANOTHER ELEMENT OWNER, A RECALL HAD BEEN ISSUED FOR THE PROBLEM. HOWEVER, HONDA INFORMED THE CONSUMER THE RECALL HAD ALREADY BEEN PERFORMED ON FEB 1, 2011. *JB

Mar 23, 2012

+ 6 more complaints for this component

SUSPENSION

7 complaints

Trailing arm mount rotting out from rust

Jul 20, 2025

The trailer arm rusted at the mount. I was told it was not safe to drive. I have learned that this is a common problem with this vehicle and Honda has issued a recall in Canada, but not the USA. I also learned that there is a similar issue with I believe the Honda CRV and that has been in recall from Honda in I believe both Canada and the US. I found a place to do the repair and he said he has seen a lot worse than mine and has done many of these repairs.. The total repair cost is $1500. I also learned that due to its design water gets trapped in the mount and causes the rust, which sounds definitely like a design flaw. The repair entails fabrication a whole new mount for the trailer arm. I discovered it on June 7th when I was doing some under body clean up.

Jul 09, 2024

Drivers side rear control arm mount is almost none distant from rust. The subframe is almost gone and there is tons of rust on the drivers side frame as well. I have seen this with a lot of people laments. Canada even had a recall on this exact problem.

Jan 28, 2024

the left rear trailing arm separated from the body causing the wheel to turn outward and stop moving.

Aug 16, 2023

The rear driver’s side trailing arm, which connects to the frame and body of the car, is rusted out to the point where it can no longer be driven safely. If the arm detaches from the body, it will cause an extremely dangerous situation which can even result in death. I can no longer drive this vehicle, even though the engine and transmission are strong. There is no repair for this without spending thousands of dollars to cut and repair the rusted area. This is an extremely common issue with the Honda Elements in areas that get snow. It needs to be addressed because it may cause serious harm to those are are not as familiar with the underside of their vehicle.

Aug 15, 2023

+ 2 more complaints for this component

POWER TRAIN

7 complaints

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE HEARD A CLUNKING NOISE COMING FROM THE TRANSMISSION WHILE DRIVING AT ALL SPEEDS. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE OCCASIONALLY EXPERIENCED DIFFICULTY SHIFTING OUT OF PARK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO HAVE THE FAILURES DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5. UPDATED 08/28/12*LJ UPDATED 09/05/2012 *JS

Jul 30, 2012

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE SHIFTED FROM DRIVE TO PARK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE DEALER CONFIRMED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT CABLE AND BUSHINGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 154,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 156,000.

Oct 20, 2011

HONDA ISSUED A SERVICE BULLETIN ON THE CRV MODEL HONDA. THE ELEMENT HAS THE SAME RUNNING GEAR, BUT NO BULLETIN WAS ISSUED FOR THERE ELEMENT....THE SERVICE BULLETIN WAS NECESSARY BECAUSE THE REAR AXLE DIFFERENTIAL LUBRICANT IS FAILING AT ABOUT 30,000 MILES; CAUSING A PARTIAL LOCK UP OF THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL. THE SERVICE MANUAL CALLS FOR REPLACEMENT OF THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL FLUID AT 90,000 MILES FOR NORMAL SERVICE AND 60,000 MILES FOR SEVERE SERVICE.. ONE NOTICES A JUDDER ON TURNING THE VEHICLE AT SLOW SPEEDS, AS THE DIFFERENTIAL CLUTCHES BIND WITH THE FAILED LUBRICANT. I SEE A POTENTIAL SEVER SAFETY PROBLEM AS A RESULT OF THE FAILED LUBRICANT AND A LOCKED UP DIFFERENTIAL. IF THE DIFFERENTIAL IS ONLY PARTIALLY BINDING, THIS FORCES THE VEHICLE TO ATTEMPT TO ALWAYS GO IN A STRAIGHT LINE, AS NO DIFFERENTIAL ACTION IS OCCURRING , NOT COMPENSATING FOR THE DIFFERENT TRACK OF THE INSIDE WHEN TURNING THROUGH A CURVE. AT THE MOST SEVERS SITUATION - WET SLICK,OR ICY ROADS, THIS LOCKED DIFFERENTIAL WILL CAUSE THE C=VEHICLE TO TRACK IN A STRAIGHT LINE, INSTEAD OF TURNING THROUGH A CURVE; CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO LEAVE THE ROAD AND POTENTIALLY CRASH, INJURING THE OCCUPANTS. I CALLED HONDA SERVICE AND EXPRESSED MY CONCERNS. THEY AGREED SUCH COULD HAPPEN, BUT FELT THE BULLETIN ISSUED ON THE CRV WAS SATISFACTORY TO COVER THE ELEMENT. I DISAGREE, AS OWNERS WERE NOT CONTACTED AND NOTIFIED OF THE POTENTIAL SERIOUS PROBLEM, AND THE NEED TO REPLACE THE OIL AT THE EARLIER MILEAGES. I SUGGEST THAT HONDA MUST BE REQUIRED TO NOTIFY ALL OWNERS OF THE EL;EMANATE VERSION, ABOUT THE NEED FOR REPLACEMENT OF THE REQUIRE DIFFERENTIAL OIL, AND THE POTENTIAL OF A SERIOUS INCIDENT IF THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL LOCKS UP FROM THE FAILED DIFFERENTIAL OIL. I FIRST NOTICED THIS WHEN THE DIFFERENTIAL BECAME NOISY AS I TURNED THROUGH A "U" TURN. ON CALLING MY DEALER, I WAS TOLD ABOUT THE CRV BULLETIN.....THOUGH IT DID NOT APPLY TO THE ELEMENT, THE DEALER WAS AWARE OF THE POTENTIAL PROBLEM. *TR

Jul 17, 2009

MY MOTHER ARRIVED AT MY HOME IN HER ELEMENT TO PICK UP MY CHILDREN. SHE WAS GOING TO DROP OFF SOME ITEMS IN THE HOUSE WHILE MY CHILDREN PROCEEDED TO GET IN THE CAR TO GET IN THEIR CAR SEATS. THE CAR ROLLED BACKWARD INTO THE POND AND THE TWO CHILDREN AGES 3 AND 6 (THANK THE LORD) WERE RESCUED ALIVE WHILE THE CAR QUICKLY SANK. WHEN THE CAR WAS PULLED FROM THE POND IT WAS IN NEUTRAL AND THE KEYS WERE ON THE FLOOR. MY COMPLAINT IS TWOFOLD: MY MOTHER WAS ABLE TO SHUT OFF THE CAR AND REMOVE THE KEYS WITH THE CAR IN NEUTRAL. THE GEAR SHIFT ON THE FLOOR DOES NOT HAVE ANY VISUAL INDICATOR (A RED LINE OR AN ARROW) TO INDICATE THE GEAR THE CAR IS IN. ONCE THE CAR IS SHUT OFF- THE INDICATOR ON THE DASHBOARD WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN LIT. I BELIEVE THAT THE EYE-HAND DISCONNECT BETWEEN THE SHIFTER ON THE FLOOR AND THE INDICATORS ON THE DASH IS A PITFALL FOR USER-ERROR. HAD SHE NOT BEEN ABLE TO REMOVE HER KEYS WITH THE CAR IN NEUTRAL, IT WOULD HAVE BEEN CLEAR TO HER THAT SHE HAD NOT PARKED THE CAR CORRECTLY. *TR

Apr 15, 2009

Crash: 1

Injuries: 2

WEEKS AFTER PURCHASING THIS VEHICLE NEW FROM THE DEALER. IT BEGAN TO LEAK TRANSMISSION FLUID. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER WITH THE COMPLAINT. THEY SAID THEY'D TAKE A LOOK AT IT, BUT IT WAS A WASTE OF TIME. THEY CLAIMED IT COULD NOT POSSIBLY BE LEAKING AND ANY FLUID I SAW WAS CONDENSATION FROM THE AC. THE GAVE IT BACK TO ME IN A FEW HOURS CLAIMING IT WAS FINE AND AGAIN SAID THE FLUID WAS CONDENSATION. I ARGUED AND SAID IT WAS OILY. THEY CLAIMED THIS WAS BECAUSE MY GARAGE FLOOR WAS OILY. THE RESPONSE TO ME WAS: "I'M SO CONFIDENT IT IS WATER I'LL COME OVER AND LICK OF THE GARAGE FLOOR. NEW CARS DON'T LEAK." WELL, IT DID LEAK AND LOADS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID. I HAD TO MOP UP THE FLUID AND RETURN WITH THE SOAKED RAG AND THE VEHICLE TO GET THEM TO TAKE A CLOSER LOOK. I HAD TO HAVE AN ENTIRELY NEW TRANSMISSION INSTALLED. THIS IS MY 4TH HONDA. I'VE NEVER HAD SO MANY PROBLEMS WITH A VEHICLE AS I'VE HAD WITH THIS ELEMENT. I'VE ONLY HAD IT 3 MONTHS NOW. VERY DISAPPOINTING. *NM

Feb 24, 2005

+ 2 more complaints for this component

SEAT BELTS

6 complaints

The contact owns a 2004 Honda Element. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under an unknown recall related to the seat belts; however, the seat belt retractor was repaired incorrectly and was installed backward. The local dealer was not contacted due to new ownership. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 166,000.

Nov 08, 2024

SRS WARNING LIGHT. DEALERSHIPS TRYING TO CHARGE $110 TO DIAGNOSE. SHOULDN'T HONDA PAY FOR THIS SAFETY DEFECT. WE HAVE BEEN TOLD A FEW DIFFERENT THINGS BY TWO DIFFERENT DEALERSHIPS.

Oct 11, 2018

THE SRS LIGHT ON TOOK CAR FOR RECALL ON AIR BAG SRS LIGHT WENT OFF AND NOW IT ON AND WANT GO OFF.

May 17, 2017

FEMALE SEAT BELT CONNECTION DOES NOT LOCK PROPERLY ON A CONSISTENT BASIS. THERE IS A NATIONAL BACK ORDER FOR THIS WARRANTIED PART SUGGESTING THERE IS A LARGE PROBLEM WITH THIS PART THAT HONDA IS NOT RESOLVING.

Dec 22, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT LOCK FAILED TO ENGAGE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE SEAT BELT LOCK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.

Mar 16, 2015

+ 1 more complaint for this component

STRUCTURE

5 complaints

● The area of the body that serves as the forward mounting point for the rear driver-side trailing arm has completely rusted though. At this mounting point, the trailing arm mounting bracket has become entirely separated from the body leaving only one bolt securing the trailing arm to the body. This is the same issue for which these vehicles have been recalled in Canada. Yes, the vehicle is available for inspection upon request. ● Continuing to operate the vehicle in this condition presents the possibility of catastrophic failure of the trailing arm mount, resulting in loss of control of the vehicle, endangering the lives of those in and outside of the vehicle. ● No, I have not taken the vehicle to a dealer or service center. ● No the vehicle/component has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representative. ● No warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms prior to the appearance of the problem on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

May 15, 2024

There is a corrosion recall on 2003-2014 Honda elements in Canada because, from salted roads, the frame rusts and extremely important safety parts can break and cause death to the driver. Seeing as these elements are made in the same factories and are in the same region (mine is in Detroit Michigan, only 10 minutes from Canada) this recall NEEDS to be extended to the USA or at least the regions where salted roads and snow are prevalent. My Honda element suffers from this exact problem but I can do nothing about it.

Feb 19, 2024

The contact owns a 2004 Honda Element. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced intermittent vibrations. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the rear control arm mounting joint. The contact was informed that the joint was almost completely rusted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 182,000.

Oct 05, 2023

KEY IN DRIVER SIDE WILL NOT TURN. IT GETS STUCK AND WILL NOT UNLOCK OR LOCK . I HAVE TO INSERT, REMOVE AND RE-INSERT MANY TIMES IN HOPES THAT IT WILL UNLOCK OR LOCK. THERE ARE MANY TIMES IT JUST WON'T WORK AND I WILL HAVE TO ENTER FROM THE TRUNK. VEHICLE IS STATIONARY/PARKED.

Jul 12, 2019

ON A RESENT TRIP TO COLDER CLIMATES, WHERE THERE WAS STILL SOME SNOW ON THE GROUND, WHILE PARKING IN A PARKING LOT, I HIT A SMALL PATCH OF SNOW AND SLID INTO A TREE. NORMALLY I WOULD EXPECT NO DAMAGE DUE TO THE LOW SPEED I WAS TRAVELING AT AROUND 5 MPH AND CAR BUMPERS TO PROTECT THE VEHICLE IN LOW SPEED MISHAPS. HOWEVER, WITH THE DESIGN OF THE 2004 HONDA ELEMENT I OWN THERE IS NO BUMPER IN THE FRONT CENTER FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 INCHES. THIS LEAVES THE CAR WITH NO PROTECTION IF STRUCK IN THAT AREA. THERE WERE TWO PASSENGERS IN THE CAR AT THE TIME. WHILE WE WERE HARDLY EVEN JOLTED BY THE IMPACT, THE CAR SUSTAINED CONSIDERABLE DAMAGE IN THE AMOUNT OF OVER $7000. HOWEVER MY CONCERN HERE IS NOT LIMITED TO WHAT HAPPENED TO ME AT SUCH A LOW SPEED IMPACT BUT ALSO WHAT WOULD BE THE RESULT AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS IF THE CAR WAS STRUCK OR SKIDDED IN A SIMILAR WAY AS MY ACCIDENT. THE RESULTS WOULD PROBABLY BE DISASTROUS WITH CONSIDERABLE LOSSES POSSIBLE. IF POSSIBLE THEN, THIS PROBLEM SHOULD BE CORRECTED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. *NM

Mar 31, 2006

Crash: 1

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

4 complaints

LOST POWER ON HIGHWAY DOING 65MPH,FIRST TIME DEALER STATED IT WAS LOW ON OIL,VEHICLE ONLY HAD APP.10000 MILES,SECOND TIME VEHICLE HAS 60000 MILES AND SAME THING WHILE DRIVING,ALL FORUMS TALK ABOUT VTEC OIL PRESSURE SWITCH,THE POWER IS LOST WHEN IT KICKS IN AND IT COULD HAPPEN WITHOUT WARNING EVEN WHILE PASSING A VEHICLE AND THEN YOU HAVE TO PULL OVER TO GET OUT OF THE WAY,THE VEHICLE IS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. *TR

Feb 15, 2009

THE CONSUMER NOTICED OIL RUNNING OUT OF HER VEHICLE WHILE PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY. THE CONSUMERS SON INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND THAT THE OIL PLUG WAS MISSING. THE CONSUMER INFORMED THE DEALER AND WAITED ON THE TOW TRUCK TO TRANSPORT THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. *JB

Feb 11, 2005

I PURCHASED MY 2004 HONDA ELEMENT IN LATE AUGUST. SINCE TAKING OWNERSHIP OF THE ELEMENT, I HAVE NOT HAD MY VEHICLE AVAILABLE TO ME FOR MORE THAN 2 WEEKS AT A TIME DUE TO A LINGERING OIL LEAK. I HAVE TAKEN THE VEHICLE IN TO THE DEALERSHIP FIVE TIMES, TO DATE, (FOR THE OIL LEAK) AND THE PROBLEM PERSISTS. THE FIRST TIME, I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS A LOOSE FILTER. I SPOKE DIRECTLY WITH THE MECHANIC. HE ADVISED THAT THE OIL POURED OUT FROM THE FILTER UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE, BUT AFTER HE TIGHTENED IT, IT STOPPED. TIME NUMBER TWO, THE DEALER REPLACED THE OIL PAN, STATING THAT THIS WAS DEFINITELY THE PROBLEM. TIME NUMBER THREE, A DYE WAS PLACED IN THE OIL TO TRACK ITS BEGINNINGS. TIME NUMBER FOUR, THE DEALER HAD A HIGHER-RANKING INSPECTOR FROM HONDA VIEW THE LEAKING DYE, AND IT WAS DEEMED TO BE A "PRESSURE VALVE" PROBLEM OF SOME SORT. DAYS AGO, THE OIL PUDDLES BELOW MY VEHICLE BEGAN AGAIN. I TOOK MY VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY HAVE HAD IT FOR FOUR DAYS ONLY TO LEARN THAT THEY CANNOT LOCATE THE SOURCE OF THE LEAK; SO I AM TO PICK MY ELEMENT UP FROM THE DEALER TOMORROW WITH NO REPAIR. WILL A PROBLEM OF THIS SORT MEET THE CRITERIA OF THE LEMON LAW? I HAVE NOT LOST FAITH IN HONDA, BUT I'M THINKING THAT MAYBE I SHOULD HAVE GONE WITH A SIMPLE BUT RELIABLE CIVIC.*AK

Oct 18, 2004

MY 2004 HONDA ELEMENT (SUV) BURST INTO FLAMES WHILE UNDER OPERATION. THIS VEHICLE HAD LESS THAN 10,000 MILES OF USE. ON THE DATE MENTIONED AT ABOUT 1450 HOURS I AND MY WIFE WERE OCCUPANTS IN THE VEHICLE WHICH HAD BEEN IN USE FOR ABOUT FIVE MINUTES. WHEN A CLOUD OF SMOKE BEGAN TO EMINATE FROM THE LOWER ENGING COMPARTMENT. UPON EXAMINATION, A FIRE WAS DISCOVERED IN THE LOWER PORTION OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT NEAR THE FIRE WALL. POLICE AND FIRE UNITS WERE SUMMONED. THEY RESPONDED, BUT NOT BEFORE THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN CONSUMED BY FLAMES. I HAVE READ TODAY THAT THIS APPEARS TO BE A CHRONIC PROBLEM WITH HONDA SUV'S. I WAS NOT GIVEN NOTICE OF THIS CONDITION AND I AM ADVISING YOU THAT THIS PROCLIVITY TO BURN, IN CONJUNCTION WITH REAR DOORS THAT CANNOT EASILY OPEN. IS A HIGHLY HAZARDOUS CONTITION. THIS WILL ULTIMATELY RESLULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. N WHY ISN'T HONDA NOTIFYING ANYONE OR RECALLING THE VEHICLES? PLEASE RESPOND.*AK

Sep 07, 2004

Fire: 1

TIRES

3 complaints

I KNOW THAT THE CORRECT TIRE SIZE FOR THE HONDA ELEMENT IS 215/70-R16. I DECIDED TO TAKE MY BUSINESS TO SEARS AUTO CENTER, WHERE THEY INSTALLED THE MICHELIN HYDROEDGE 215/65-R16 TIRES. I WAS WONDERING IF THIS SIZE IS SAFE FOR THE PASSENGERS AND FOR VEHICLE PERFORMANCE. *TR

Dec 29, 2008

215/70 16 WRANGLER HP VERY NOISY LAST 10,000 MILES. SUSPECT SAFETY OF TIRES. *JB

Feb 27, 2006

GOODYEAR TIRE (SIZE- P215-70-R16) WRANGLER-HP-99S STOCK ON 2004 HONDA ELEMENT -4WD-EX-4AT. FLAT TIRE ON INTERSTATE,TRAVELED LESS THAN 1/4 MILE AFTER TIRE DEFLATED. CHANGED TIRE WENT DIRECTLY TO RESIDENCE ABOUT 2.5 MILES. I INFLATED THE TIRE ONCE I REACHED MY RESIDENCE TO OBSERVE ANY AIR FLOW COMING FROM A FOREIGN OBJECT THAT I MAY HAVE ENCOUNTERED ON THE INTERSTATE. NOTHING NOTICEABLE IN TREAD AREA. I TURNED THE TIRE OVER TO LOOK AT THE BACK SIDE OF THE TIRE AND NOTICED 6 RIPPLES(BUBBLES) ON THE TIRE. TIRE DESTROYED. I ACTUALLY CALLED 14 DIFFERENT TIRE STORES AND EVERY STORE INFORMED ME THAT THIS TIRE WAS NOT A STOCK ITEM AND ASKED ME "WHY WOULD I PUT THESE TIRES ON MY VEHICLE?" I SAID I DIDN'T,THIS WAS A STOCK TIRE WHEN I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE IN MARCH,2005. ANYWAYS, TO MAKE A LONG STORY SHORT( NO ONE) HAD THIS TIRES. NOT EVEN THE CAR DEALER CRISWELL HONDA." EVERYONE," "EVERYONE WILL HAVE TO SPECIAL ORDER THEM." SO MAY I ADD IF YOU BUY ONE OF THESE VEHICLES MAKE SURE ANY TIRE IS AVAILABLE -AFTER MARKET- SO YOU DO NOT GET STUCK IN THIS DILEMMA. *JB

Aug 26, 2005

VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE

3 complaints

WHILE ON THE INTERSTATE COMING FROM MYRTLE BEACH THE WINDSCREEN WAS CRACKED ON THE ELEMENT I PURCHASED ABOUT 3 WEEKS BEFORE THE TRIP. I DID NOT SEE A ROCK HIT , I ASSUMED THAT IS WHAT HAPPENED UNTIL I STARTED READING THE FORUM ON THE ELEMENT OWNERS CLUB ABOUT SIMILAR SITUATIONS THAT HAS HAPPENED TO OTHER ELEMENT OWNERS. THE FIX WAS $330 OUT OF POCKET TO REPLACE THE WINDSCREEN. *TR

Jul 15, 2008

2004 HONDA ELEMENT. CRACKED WINDSHIELD X3 FIXES.....CRACKED AGAIN BY NO FAULT OF ROCKS. *JB

Mar 29, 2006

2004 HONDA ELEMENT : 2ND WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT IN 6 MONTHS . THE CRACKS ALWAYS START IN THE BLACK AREA FROM BELOW THE WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES. *JB HONDA DENIES ANY KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THE DESIGN OF THE WINDSHIELD FRAME . HONDA REPLACED FIRST WINSHIELD APPROX. 6 MONTHS AGO . THE 2ND REPLACEMENT HONDA REFUSED TO COVER/WARRANTY. I HAVE A SIGNED STATEMENT FROM THE WINDOW TECHNICHIAN THAT CAME OUT AND REPLACED MY 2ND WINDSHIELD STATING; THE CRACK IN MY WINSHIELD WAS CAUSED BY STRESS AND THAT THE BOTTOM CORNERS OF THE PINCHWELD ON BOTH SIDES ARE BROKE AWAY FROM THE WELDS AND ARE LOOSE . MY INSURANCE POLICY COVERED THE 2ND REPLACEMENT HOWEVER, I FEEL HONDA SHOULD HAVE. AFTER RESEARCHING MY VEHICLE TODAY ON LINE, I HAVE LEARNED THAT THERE IS A PENDING CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT AGAINST AMERICAN HONDA AND AN ALARMING NUMBER SITES WITH HONDA ELEMENT OWNERS OR LEASERS SHARING MY SAME CONCERNS . I WANT HONDA IN WRITTING, ASSURE ME THAT THIS DEFECT IN DESIGN OR, THE WAY THEY WILL ATTEMPT TO FIX IT WILL NOT CAUSE INJURY TO ME OR MY PASSENGERS OR LOSS OF LIFE TO MYSELF OR MY PASSENGERS IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT . I WOULD ALSO LIKE THEM TO WARANTY THE WINDSHIELD FOR THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE .

Mar 11, 2006

SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE

2 complaints

my control arm mount and frame of my element is rusted out, it is an ongoing problem with the honda element as i am seeing a lot of people online with similar issues. if this fails, it could put people at risk, i also see other elements on the road with a camber'd out back tire on the driver side. i believe these wheels would fall into the car causing an accident. there are no warning lights that pop on, this is hard to get a look at until you get under the vehicle. they have done recalls on this exact problem in canada already, we need it here as well in the usa. the crv has also had the same issues and was given a recall in usa. i am very concerned with the amount of these cars on the road that many do not know the danger they are in.

Jul 01, 2025

The rear left trailing arm mounting point is completely corroded through, making the car unsafe to drive. If it were to fall off during driving the chances of it creating an accident are high. There are many other Elements with this specific spot rusting through.

May 23, 2024

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

2 complaints

While driving in the freeway; the low beam lights went out and would no longer work. For visibility purposes, I was forced to use high beam lights to make it home while impairing the driving ability of others. The low beams and high beams run on the same light bulb. While using the high beams, the bulbs work as intended. The light bulbs and relays were promptly replaced and the issue is not fixed. It is often caused the a malfunctioning multiswitch that controls lighting and blinkers. The issue is well known within Honda elements and a previous recall have been issued for other Honda models including the Honda civic. Oftentimes the wiring goes back due to the switch malfunctioning. This is extremely unsafe toward everyone on the road as we lack visibility and by using high beams, we unwantingly blind other drivers which could result in injury by other drivers, passengers, and even pedestrians.

Jun 02, 2021

OWNER WAS DRIVING FOR ROUGHLY 30 MINUTES WHEN SHE STOPPED FOR GAS AND AFTER RESTARTING CAR NEITHER ONE OF HER HEADLIGHTS WERE WORKING. HER HIGH BEAMS CONTINUED TO WORK AND HAD TO BE USED. OWNER WAS TOLD BY MECHANIC THAT THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH HAD OVER HEATED AND BURNED THE WIRING WITHIN THE SWITCH. HONDA HAS ALREADY ISSUED RECALLS FOR CIVICS AND ACCORDS FOR THIS VERY PROBLEM BUT NOT FOR HONDA ELEMENTS. REPAIR COST $200.00

Jul 12, 2018

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

BRAKES KEEP GRINDING AND SQUEALING. HAVE REPAIRED BRAKES AND MECHANISM ASSOCIATED WITH IT A TOTAL FOR FOUR TIMES. REAR PASSENGER BRAKE KEEPS GOING OUT. GRINDING AWAY PART OF THE ROTAR AND BRAKE KEEPS STICKING TO DISC.

Mar 01, 2020

BRAKE PEDAL WAS SOFT, COULD BE PUSHED TO THE FLOOR DESPITE BLEEDING OF THE BRAKE LINES. REPLACING THE MASTER BRAKE CYLINDER DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEM WHETHER DRIVING OR STATIONARY. BLEEDING THE ABS MODULATOR WOULD TEMPORARILY IMPROVE BRAKING, BUT TURNING THE IGNITION ON AND OFF 6 TIMES WOULD INTRODUCE AIR INTO THE ABS MODULATOR. REPLACING THE ABS MODULATOR SEEMED TO FIX THE PROBLEM.

Feb 27, 2016

ENGINE

2 complaints

ENGINE STALLS AT 3000RPM

Aug 12, 2019

TOOK A WELL MAINTAINED 1994 ELEMENT WE HAD OWNED SINCE NEW TO THE HONDA DEALER FOR MAINTENANCE AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE BLOCK WAS CRACKED AND HAD BEEN SEEPING COOLANT FOR A LONG TIME. THIS CRACKED BLOCK WAS UNDOUBTEDLY A HAZARDOUS MANUFACTURING DEFECT REQUIRING EXPENSIVE REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT. *TR

Sep 25, 2014

AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS

2 complaints

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE AIR BAG SENSOR INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED, WHICH WAS A SAFETY CONCERN. IN ADDITION, WHILE DRIVING, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT AND PROPERLY SECURE THE DRIVER WHILE MAKING SUDDEN STOPS. THE FAILURES WERE NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND LOCAL DEALER (HONDA CARS OF CORONA, 1080 POMONA RD, CORONA, CA). WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 293,800.

Sep 17, 2018

2004 HONDA ELEMENT AIRBAG LIGHT WILL NOT GO OFF STAYS ON CONSTANTLY HONDA REFUSES TO FIX WITHOUT COSTING ME MORE MONEY THIS SHOULD BE COVERED IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE FREE OF CHARGE. -----SHAME ON YOU HONDA !!.-----

Apr 04, 2018

AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS

2 complaints

MY 2004 ELEMENT LIGHT CAME ON WHILE DRIVING ONE DAY. I HAD IT SERVICED BY A MECHANIC WITH SET BELT REPLACEMENT. DID NOT HELP WITH THE LIGHT CAME BACK ON. HAD IT LOOKED AT BY SOMEONE ELSE WHO TOLD ME IT WAS THE AIRBAG SENSORS. I REALLY DON"T WANT TO KEEP SPENDING MONEY BUT IT FAILED INSPECTION BECAUSE OF THIS ALONG WITH MY DRIVER SIDE SEAT THAT IS ROCKING. DRIVING AND COMING TO A STOP WITH ANY TYPE OF FORCE CAUSES THE SEAT TO JUMP FORWARD. EVEN IF I AM SITTING AND IF I MOVE AROUND MY SEAT WILL MOVE. IS THERE ANY TYPE OF PERMANENT FIXES FOR THESE PROBLEMS. OUR DAUGHTER LOVES HER ELEMENT BUT, THESE ARE MAJOR ISSUES FOR OUR FAMILY AS THEY ARE AND CAN HAVE SERIOUS PROBLEMS NOW AND IN THE FUTURE

Aug 10, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO A PRECEDING VEHICLE. THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN THE CONTACT AND CAUSED THE CONTACT TO BE INJURED. A PASSENGER WAS ALSO REPORTED INJURED. IN ADDITION, THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND WAS NOT INSPECTED TO FOR THE SEAT BELT AND AIR BAG FAILURES. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 108,000. UPDATED 03/05/12*LJ THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED THE SEAT WENT FROM AN UPRIGHT POSITION TO A RECLINING POSITION. UPDATED 03/07/12

Jan 03, 2012

Crash: 1

Injuries: 2

EQUIPMENT

2 complaints

ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT VEHICLE SCISSOR-STYLE JACK HAD TO BE ALMOST FULLY EXTENDED TO HAVE ENOUGH CLEARANCE FOR FRONT LEFT TIRE TO BE REMOVED. DESPITE REAR WHEEL CHOCKED AND JACK IN PROPER POSITION ACCORDING TO OWNER'S MANUAL, JACK GAVE WAY, ALLOWING VEHICLE TO FALL RESULTING IN CRUSH INJURY TO VEHICLE OWNER LOWER EXTREMITY. JACK LIFT SEEMS TO BE INADEQUATE FOR GROUND CLEARANCE OF VEHICLE. *TR

Apr 09, 2014

Injuries: 1

THERE IS A DEFECT IN BOTH THE WORKMANSHIP (DESIGN) AND MATERIAL (PRONE TO MALFUNCTION IN NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS) OF THE HONDA ELEMENTS AIR CONDITIONER CONDENSER. THE CONDENSER IS LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE RADIATOR, DIRECTLY BEHIND THE CARS FRONT GRILLE. THE CONDENSER IS APPARENTLY EXTREMELY DELICATE AND PRONE TO DAMAGE FROM ROAD DEBRIS. THIS VITAL PART OF THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM IS DIRECTLY EXPOSED TO ROAD DEBRIS. NO PROTECTION IS PROVIDED FOR THIS CRITICAL COMPONENT. THIS IS A DEFECT IN WORKMANSHIP AND DESIGN. THE AIR CONDITIONER CONDENSER IS MADE OF MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTED IN A MANNER THAT MAKES IT PRONE TO FAILURE WHEN DRIVING ON HIGHWAYS.*AK

Apr 09, 2004

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2 complaints

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED WHEN DEPRESSING THE BRAKES FROM ANY SPEED, THE BRAKES WOULD ABNORMALLY SQUEAK. THE DEALER REPLACED THE FRONT BRAKES. THE FAILURE RECURRED WITHIN NINE MONTHS. THE DEALER THEN REPLACED THE REAR DRIVER SIDE BRAKES. THE FAILURE RECURRED WITHIN ONE YEAR AND A HALF. THE CONTACT THEN HAD THE VEHICLE INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO REPLACED THE FRONT BRAKES, ROTORS AND CALIPERS. THE FAILURE RECURRED WITHIN EIGHT MONTHS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 38,000. UPDATED 11/03/10. *LJ UPDATED 11/04/10*JB

Aug 02, 2010

2004 HONDA ELEMENT. REAR BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS WEARING AWAY REPEATEDLY. PADS REPLACED/ROTORS RESURFACED TWICE BETWEEN 48,000 AND 65,000. AT 65,000, PADS 95% WORN AWAY AGAIN AND ROTORS DAMAGED. REAR PADS AND ROTORS REPLACED FOR THE THIRD TIME IN 15K MILES. DEALER CONFIRMS THAT PADS WERE PROPERLY INSTALLED, CLAIMS TO NOT KNOW WHY THIS IS HAPPENING. WEB SEARCHES ON WWW.ELEMENTOWNERSCLUB.COM FINDS MANY INSTANCES OF THE SAME PROBLEM, WITH MANY OWNERS COMPLAINING OF THE ROTORS RUSTING PREMATURELY AND OFTEN, THE CALIPERS STICKING, AND HONDA REFUSING TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM. IN SOME CASES, PROBLEMS BEGIN UNDER THE 10K MARK, AND UPWARDS FROM THERE. *TR

Jun 14, 2010

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2 complaints

MY HONDA ELEMENT EXPERIENCED A SUDDEN ACCELERATOR PROBLEM. WHEN I WAS TRYING TO PASS ANOTHER CAR, I STEPPED ON TO THE ACCELERATOR & SUDDENLY IT WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN AND WOULD NOT RELEASE. I HAVE A MANUAL CONTROL SO I PUSHED THE CLUTCH DOWN AND AFTER 1/4 MILE THE PEDAL RELEASED. I HAVE NO FLOOR MATS, BUT IT GAVE THE FEELING OF THE MAT TRAPPING THE PEDAL DOWN. *TR

Mar 12, 2010

CRUISE CONTROL STOPPED WORKING. *AK

Dec 07, 2004

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

2004 HONDA ELEMENT WINDSHIELD CRACKED AT STRESS POINT LOCATED ON DRIVER'S SIDE WHERE INSPECTION STICKERS USUALLY APPEAR. NO PITTING, NO IMPACT POINT FROM FLYING DEBRIS. THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THE HONDA ELEMENT. HAD DRIVEN THE CAR AN HOUR EARLIER AND NO CRACK. *TR

Jan 19, 2008

MAJOR (DEADLY) FLAW IN 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE DESIGN FLAW THAT WAS DISCOVERED WHILE SITTING INSIDE THE VEHICLE ON THE DAY OF PURCHASING MAY RESULT IN THE ENTRAPMENT OF OCCUPANTS. *JB

Oct 12, 2004

STEERING,SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

Just like the same era's Honda CR-V (the Honda Element's sibling car with many of the same components), the undercarriage rust on my vehicle is excessive: as described in the same era Honda CR-V's NHTSA Recall (23V-228). Large sections of my car’s rear frame are completely missing, and as shown in the photographs even the rear bumper fell off because of all of the rust. Just like with the CR-V, a recall for the rear frame corrosion first occurred in Canada and then in the US: see NHTSA Recall 23V-228’s chronology. The Honda Element's Canadian recall is as follows: "Transport Canada Recall - 2021024 – HONDA". As of today, there is no NHTSA recall for rear frame corrosion for Honda Elements. I am submitting this complaint for this car now, and also contemporaneously am submitting complaints under different VINs for my other Elements with rust problems: every Honda Element that I have ever owned, even one that had spent its entire 14 year life as a New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas car has had rust problems. In other words, no matter what environment these Elements (which were made for the model years 2003-2011) are in, they corrode right away (within any factory warranties), and eventually become dangerous.

Jun 13, 2025

WHEELS

1 complaint

I'm am told the component that failed is the "lower control arm." The vehicle is available for inspection. At the onset of this problem was a loss of control of my steering. At first I felt a play in the steering wheel when I made a small adjustment in my turn and felt the car move more than what it would normally do. I thought it was the waves in the road due to frost heaves. Then within about 3/4s of a mile the left "lower control arm" separated from where it was being held and fell to the ground. I heard a dragging noise in the back left area of my vehicle and was fortunate to be in front of a parking lot and was able to immediately pull in out of traffic. The car was towed to our auto repair shop where I was told it was unfixable. I also called the Honda dealership and explained the issue, and was confirmed that the car is unfixable, and was told that presently the part causing this issue is being recalled in Canada, but not yet in the USA. I wanted you to know that this happened here in the USA as well. I did not receive any warnings that there was an issue until it happened.

May 07, 2024

SUSPENSION,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

The fuel filler neck has rusted through. If pumping gas into the vehicle, gasoline runs onto the ground by the rear tire. The rear trailing arm of the suspension has significant rust. I am concerned this suspension part could fail and become unattached to the vehicle frame/body. The Canadian transportation board has ordered a recall to repairs these issues. from Transport Canada: Toronto, Ontario — Honda is recalling all 2003-2011 Element SUVs, warning of rusting rear frames that could result in the complete separation of the rear trailing arm.

Aug 17, 2023

STEERING,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

While driving down a city street, heard a very loud crack/bang, and lost control of the vehicle. Fortunately I was going slow, 20-30mph and was able to safely stop. Upon exiting the vehicle, the rear driver side wheel was hanging at a weird angle. Looking under the car, the entire trailing arm and wheel assembly has broken off of the frame. If I was going faster, or had been on the highway, this would have caused an accident/rollover and injury for sure. Looking online for more information, I see that this is a known issue, and Honda has already issued a recall, but only for Canada. Vehicle was towed to and inspected by a AAA certified auto shop; they have written it off as a total loss, and suggest to sell the vehicle for parts. I contacted Honda, and they have told me to take it to a dealership for additional inspection by them.

Jun 02, 2023

SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

My air conditioner went out and I was going to put car in reverse to see if the fans were working. When I put the key in I didn't start the car because my key wouldn't go forward or backwards it was just stuck and the steering column locked up. When I first purchased the vehicle in October 2022 I had to have to front end suspension joints replaced the bar in the middle was cracked. It sounded and felt like the motor was going to fall out. I need to replace the back suspension due to very loud noises when driving like something is going to fall apart.

May 22, 2023

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2004 Honda Element. The contact stated that after the vehicle was shifted into park(P), the vehicle would roll forward or roll backward. Additionally, the key would remain stuck in the ignition, causing the contact to have to maneuver the key to release the key from the ignition switch. The failure occurred intermittently; however, the key was still stuck in the ignition. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer who confirmed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 167,000.

Nov 03, 2022

CHILD SEAT

1 complaint

The contact owns a Kids Embrace Buzz Lightyear 2-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat. Neither the model number nor the manufactured date was available. The contact stated that after cleaning her car, the contact attempted to install the car seat and discovered that the buckle latch was jammed open and could not latch securely. The car seat was not replaced. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure.

Oct 29, 2021

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

SRS LIGHT ON. HONDA DEALER WANTS $$ TO DIAGNOSE, BUT THIS SHOULD BE A SAFETY ISSUE.

Nov 01, 2019

AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY GOING 65 MPH AND SWITCHING LANES WHEN MY SEAT AIRBAG DEPLOYED. MY SEAT IS RIPPED. IT HIT ME IN THE ARM. NO ACCIDENT OR COLLISION HAPPENED.

Jan 22, 2019

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

1 complaint

THE CAR SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING AND CAME TO AN INSTANT STOP. THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPENED THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN COMPLETELY WHILE PULLING INTO A BUSINESS. THANKFULLY THERE WAS NO ONE BEHIND ME. IT HAS BEEN MAYBE A YEAR FROM THE FIRST INCIDENT AND NOW THE CAR WILL FLASH OFF AND ON WITHIN A NANO SECOND WHILE DRIVING AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS AND ALSO WHILE COMING TO A STOP AND TURNING CORNERS. THE HEADLIGHTS ALSO DIM AT DIFFERENT TIMES WHILE DRIVING. THIS IS VERY SCARY AND WILL EVENTUALLY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. I WILL BE MAKING AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE LOCAL DEALER ASAP. I AM HOPING THAT BY GETTING THE IGNITION RECALL COMPLETED THIS WILL FIX THE ISSUE. *JS

Dec 02, 2014

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

LOW BEAMS STOPPED WORKING SIMULTANEOUSLY. HEADLIGHT BULBS WERE PROMPTLY REPLACED BUT THE BULBS WERE FINE. THE DEFECT WAS IN THE VEHICLE ITSELF. LOW BEAMS DO NOT WORK, WHILE THE HIGH BEAMS AND RUNNING LIGHTS CONTINUE TO OPERATE NORMALLY. HONDA HAD A RECALL FOR THIS, JUST NOT FOR THE ELEMENT: HTTP://WWW-ODI.NHTSA.DOT.GOV/CARS/PROBLEMS/DEFECT/RESULTS.CFM?ACTION_NUMBER=EA11012&SEARCHTYPE=QUICKSEARCH&SUMMARY=TRUE MY LOCAL HONDA DEALERSHIP WANTS $350 TO FIX THIS DEFECT. *TR

Oct 13, 2014

SEAT BELTS,SEATS

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER WAS IN A HEAD ON COLLISION AND DRIVER'S SEAT MOVED FORWARD AND THE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RESTRAIN THE DRIVER. THE DRIVER MOVED FORWARD HITTING THE STEERING WHEEL AND DASH BOARD. THE DRIVER SUFFERED INJURIES TO THE CHEST, THE KNEE, AND MINOR BRUISING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 132,000.

May 13, 2014

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUN ROOF BECAME FRACTURED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A COLLISION SPECIALIST FOR REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 75,000.

Apr 02, 2014

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

MY WIFE WAS COMING TO A STOP AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT. THE ENGINE SUDDENLY STARTED ACCELERATING AND SHE PRESSED THE BRAKES TO TRY TO STOP IT. SHE EVENTUALLY PUT IT IN PARK TO STOP THE CAR, BUT THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO GO TO MAXIMUM RPM. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE HONDA DEALER WHERE IT WAS STILL EXHIBITING THE PROBLEM. *TR

Jun 13, 2012

STEERING,SUSPENSION

1 complaint

I TOOK MY HONDA ELEMENT TO THE DEALER COMPLAINING OF A VIBRATION IN THE RIGHT FRONT OF THE CAR. I WAS TOLD THAT MY COMPLIANCE BUSHINGS NEEDED REPLACED BUT AXLES WERE FINE. I PICKED UP MY CAR ONLY TO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. UPON FURTHER EXAMINATION, THE MECHANIC CAME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THE RIGHT AXLE WAS BAD. I HAD THAT REPLACED STILL HAVE A VIBRATION. I HAVE NOW BEEN TOLD TO REPLACE THE LEFT AXLE. I CAME UPON AN INTERESTING THREAD ON A FORUM STATING THAT HONDA HELD EDUCATION MEETINGS ABOUT THE FRAME CAUSING THE AXLES TO WEAR INCORRECTLY. INNER JOINT BEARINGS ROLLING OUT OF JOINT, ABNORMAL WEAR. NOT OUTSIDE OF THE SURFACE OF THE BEARINGS BUT ACTUAL INSIDE BEARINGS OCTAGONED. MY VEHICLE HAS ONLY 68, 000 MILES ON IT AND I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY A HONDA SERVICE MANAGER THAT IT IS EXTREMELY RARE FOR ONE AXLE TO GO BAD AND UNHEARD OF FOR 2 TO GO BAD. I AM WONDERING IF ANYTHING CAN BE DONE IF HONDA IS COVERING UP A FAULTY AXLE PROBLEM AND POSSIBLY FAULTY DESIGN OF THE VEHICLE BEING THAT THE FRAME IS TOO HEAVY FOR THE COMPONENTS. I HAVE ALSO BEEN TOLD THAT MY REAR STRUTS AS WELL AS REAR COMPLIANCE BUSHINGS WILL NEED TO BE REPLACED AS WELL BUT ARE NOT BAD ENOUGH YET. I ALSO HAVE A DRIVER'S SEAT THAT ROCKS BACK AND FORTH AND HONDA CLAIMS TO KNOW NOTHING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM AS WELL. THIS IS ALSO MY 4TH SET OF TIRES ON THIS CAR. IT LITERALLY EATS THE TIRES UNTIL THEY ARE BALD. I AM NOT THE ONLY PERSON WITH THESE PROBLEMS AS THEY ARE ON FORUMS ON THE INTERNET. CAN ANYTHING BE DONE ABOUT THIS? *TR

Mar 19, 2011

SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS

1 complaint

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE CONTACT HAD TO SWERVE TO AVOID HITTING A DEER AND THE LEFT REAR STRUTS SNAPPED CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO ROLL OVER 250 FEET. THE FRONTAL AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY BUT THE SIDE AIR BAGS DID. THE CONTACT SUFFERED INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND FILED A COMPLAINT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 103,476.

Jan 04, 2011

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

LOWERED PASSENGER SIDE ELEC WINDOW 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. WINDOW WENT DOWN, WILL NOT COME BACK UP. *TR

Nov 23, 2010

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

DEFECT: MECHANICAL DOOR LOCK ON 2004 HONDA ELEMENT FAILURE. THE HONDA DEALERSHIP HAS TOLD ME THIS IS A CHRONIC PROBLEM OF ONE OR MORE OF THE TUMBLERS NOT MOVING. I HAVE FOUND OVER 300+SPECIFIC EMAILS ON AUTOMOBILE PROBLEMS REGARDING THIS SPECIFIC PROBLEM (ELEMENT AND CRV) AND THE CORPORATION HAS NOT ADDRESSED THIS AS A MECHANICAL DEFECT THAT THEY SHOULD REPLACE. BEING UNABLE TO UNLOCK THE DOOR COULD POSE A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY PROBLEM SHOULD RAPID ACCESS BE NEEDED. THIS IS AN ACKNOWLEDGED AND DOCUMENTED PROBLEM. THE CORPORATE OFFICE DIRECTED ME TO THIS WEBSITE TO LODGE MY CONCERNS STATING THAT NHTSA DIRECTIVES WERE THE ONLY WAY THEY WOULD RESPOND TO THIS PROBLEM. *TR

Sep 14, 2010

SUSPENSION,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS,EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

2004 HONDA ELEMENT: (I HAVE 2 AND BOTH HAVE THE FOLLOWING EXACT PROBLEMS)1. AIRBAGS WARNING LIGHTS INDICATING PROBLEMS 2. DRIVERS SEAT IS LOOSE AND ROCKS 3. PASSENGER SEAT CAUSES EXTREME DISCOMFORT TO HIP AND BACK ON LONG TIPS (THIS IS OCCURS WITH ALL PASSENGERS, YOUNG AND OLDER) 3. UNDER CARRIAGE BRUSHES FAILURE 4. A/C AIR COMPRESSOR FAILURE 5. STRAPS IN BACK SEATS PULLED OUT AND SEAT CANNOT BE RECLINED 6. ENGINE DECELERATES WITHOUT WARNING. POWER CUTBACK DURING PASSING MAKES THIS VERY DANGEROUS. 7. DRIVERS SEATBELT BUCKLE IS DIFFICULT TO SECURE (ONLY 1 CAR WITH THIS PROBLEM) 8. LOUD CLANKING NOISE WHEN CARS ARE BEING TURNED. *TR

Aug 12, 2010

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

SUDDEN DEPRESSION OF ACCELERATOR, WITH A RAPID RPM TO 7000. SECOND OCCURRENCE, MULTIPLE EPISODIC OCCURRENCE, DEFEATING THE POSSIBILITY OF DRIVER ERROR. RAPID SHIFT TO NEUTRAL SETTING HELPED TO REDUCE THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION. IT MAY BE A SYSTEMIC PROBLEM AKIN TO TOYOTA. THE ACCELERATOR PROBLEM MAY AN ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING PROBLEM. THE CAR IN QUESTION IS A HONDA ELEMENT 2004. THE CAR SHOULD BE INSPECTED AND EXAMINED IN ORDER TO ISOLATE AND DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT THIS IS INDEED A SYSTEMIC PRODUCT DEFECT. THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN REPORTED TO HONDA. THEIR BRUSQUE AND CURSORY ANSWER DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM REPORTED EARLIER. I HAVE LOST CONFIDENCE IN THIS AUTOMOBILE'S SAFETY. AS A CUSTOMER OF SEVERAL HONDA CARS SINCE 1980, THESE PROBLEMS SHOULD BE ANALYZED AND SOLVED SO NEXT GENERATIONS OF HONDA OWNER DOES NOT EXPERIENCE SUCH A DISTRESSING AND HAZARDOUS CONDITION. *TR

Jun 18, 2010

STEERING

1 complaint

WHILE DRIVING DOWN EXPRESSWAY, STEERING WHEEL TILT LOCK CAME LOOSE ALLOWING STEERING WHEEL TO MOVE UP & DOWN. AFTER STOPPING & RAISING TILT LEVER TO UPWARD POSITION (LOCK), I CONTINUED ON AND IT DID IT AGAIN (LEVER FALLING DOWN). NOW LEVER WILL NOT REMAIN IN "UP" OR "LOCKED" POSITION. VERY UN-NERVING WHEN BRAKING OR TURNING. AWAITING RETURN CALL FROM OUT OF TOWN HONDA DEALER. LOCAL HONDA DEALER SAID THEY WANTED $90.00 UP FRONT AS A "DIAGNOSTIC FEE" BEFORE THEY WOULD EVEN LOOK AT IT........

Mar 23, 2010

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

1 complaint

I HAVE A 2004 HONDA ELEMENT. I NOTICED FOR THE PAST TWO YEARS EVERY TIME THAT I FILL THE TANK COMPLETELY, I SMELL STRONG GASOLINE FUMES UNTIL I USE ABOUT 4 OR 5 GALLONS. I FAILED A CHATTANOOGA, TN EMISSIONS CHECK. THEY SAID THAT I HAVE A LEAK IN THE FUEL TANK. I NOTICED THE WEB THAT OTHERS HAVE REPORTED LEAKS AT THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK NEAR THE FILLER CAP FOR THE SAME MODEL YEAR. CAN YOU ISSUE A SAFETY RECALL? THE VEHICLE IS GARAGE KEPT. THE UNDERSIDE OF THE VEHICLE IS RELATIVELY CLEAN, AND CORROSION DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE A FACTOR THAT CAUSED THE LEAK NEAR THE FILLER CAP. *TR

Nov 28, 2008

AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT

1 complaint

ON FEBRUARY 2, 2008, MY HUSBAND AND I WERE DRIVING FROM MILWAUKEE WI TO MADISON WI WHICH IS ABOUT 80 MILES. THERE WAS NO SNOW ON THE ROAD THAT MORNING, ROADS WERE CLEAR. ALL OF A SUDDEN WE HEARD WHAT SOUNDED LIKE A GUN SHOT GO OFF. WE HAD NO IDEA WHAT IT WAS AND MOVED OUT OF TRAFFIC TO THE SHOULDER TO PULL OVER. WE THEN NOTICED THAT THE SIDE AIRBAG THAT IS LOCATED IN THE DRIVERS SEAT DEPLOYED. NOTHING HIT US, WE HIT NOTHING. CALLED SCHLOSSMANS HONDA CITY THAT MONDAY THEY SAID THEY HAVE NEVER HEARD OF THIS HAPPENING. I MADE AN APPOINTMENT TO BRING THE CAR . THE FIRST THING THEY SAID WAS THAT I MUST HAVE HIT SOMETHING. THEN MADE ANOTHER APPOINTMENT FOR THEM TO LOOK AT IT AND RUN SOME TESTS ON IT. AGAIN NOTHING. THE SENSOR TRIGGERED THE AIRBAG BUT THERE IS NO DAMAGE ANYWHERE ON MY CAR. THIS REPAIR IS GOING TO COST OVER $1200 HONDA REFUSES TO COVER THIS. I HAVE ABOUT 30,000 MILES ON MY 2004 ELEMENT, MY WARRANTY IS EXPIRED. I CONTACTED PRIVATE AUTO INSURANCE, I HAVE A $500 DEDUCTIBLE . I HAVE CONTACTED HONDA CORPORATION IN CALIFORNIA AND STARTED A CLAIM BECAUSE I FEEL NOT ONLY SHOULD THEY COVER THIS REPAIR BUT SHOULD CHECK OUT THE OTHER SENSORS AND AIRBAGS IN MY CAR. WHAT IF I GET THIS ONE FIXED AND IT HAPPENS AGAIN? WE COULD HAVE GOTTEN INTO A SERIOUS ACCIDENT OR WORSE. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS ON THE INTERNET, SEEMS THERE ARE SEVERAL PEOPLE THAT HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH HONDA'S AIRBAGS. THEY EITHER DEPLOY WHEN THEY AREN'T SUPPOSE TO OR DON'T DEPLOY IN SERIOUS ACCIDENTS. I BELIEVE THIS IS HONDA'S RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK ALL AIRBAGS IN CERTAIN MODELS. CURRENTLY MY CAR IS NOT FIXED, I AM STILL WORKING WITH HONDA CITY PETE LOBERG, MGR. WHO IS DOING ALL HE CAN TO ASSIST ME. I TRULY BELIEVE THIS IS SOMETHING THAT REQUIRES YOUR ASSISTANCE TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF PEOPLE IN THEIR CARS WITH THESE AIRBAGS. *TR

Feb 21, 2008

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

AIR BAGS AND CRUISE CONTROL STOPPED WORKING. AIR BAGS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND BROUGHT TO DEALER. CABLE REEL ASSEMBLY IN STEERING COLUMN WAS BAD. DEALER SAID I HAD TO PAY FOR NEW ASSEMBLY AND LABOR. *TR

Feb 08, 2008

VISIBILITY,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

CRACKED WINDSHIELD ON THE PASSENGER SIDE, BROKEN DRIVER'S SIDE VISOR AND A HORN THAT HAS ONE BROKEN PITCH, LEAVING THE PITCH VERY LOW, ALMOST NOT NOTICEABLE. IT HAS BEEN THAT WAY FOR A YEAR, BUT DID NOT FIND THIS SITE UNTIL NOW. TOO EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR. *JB

Sep 24, 2007

STRUCTURE,SEATS

1 complaint

HONDA ELEMENT - DRIVER SEAT STARTED ROCKING 7 MONTHS OLD. UNSAFE. CLEARLY SOME IS LOOSE AND THERE ARE THE COMPLAINT IS OUT THERE AND REAL. THIS IS TRULY UNSAFE AND SHOULD BE EMBRACED ASAP. *JB

Mar 04, 2006

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,TIRES

1 complaint

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A SCREECHING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR BRAKES WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL AT SPEEDS OF 2 MPH AND ABOVE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN FOR AN INSPECTION DUE TO THE NOISE. THE INSPECTOR DETERMINED THE BRAKE PADS WERE WORN AND THE ROTORS WERE SCORED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE REAR BRAKE PAD AND ROTORS WERE REPLACED. HOWEVER, THE DEALER STATED THE TIRES WERE WORN AROUND THE TREAD ALTHOUGH, NO INCIDENTS OR PROBLEMS WERE REPORTED ABOUT THE TIRES PREVIOUSLY. THE MANUFACTURER DETERMINED, THIS WAS NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR ON THE VEHICLE AND THE TIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AS A PART OF REGULAR MAINTENANCE. THE REAR ABS ROTOR WAS BADLY WORN. THE CONSUMER REPLACED THE TIRE BECAUSE IT WAS LOOSING AIR DUE TO A SCREW. UPDATED 03/09/06

Feb 21, 2006

SUSPENSION,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

I HAVE HAD MY HONDA ELEMENT INTO MY DEALER FOR THE SAME CREAKING ISSUE IN THE REAR OF MY VEHICLE OVER 6 TIMES. EVERYTIME IT'S NOT FIXED AND THEY MANAGE TO MESS UP SOMETHING ELSE. LATEST IS I HAVE NO REAR HATCH LIGHT AND THE GRAB HANDLE FALLS OFF. *JB

Sep 19, 2005

STEERING,TIRES

1 complaint

WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE'S STEERING LOCKED. THE VEHICLE'S TIRE VALVE WAS FAULTY AND RESULTED IN A FLAT TIRE. *NM WHEN THE STEERING LOCKED FOR THE SECOND TIME, THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN. THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER TO THE SHOULDER AND THE VEHICLE RESTARTED WITHOUT INCIDENT. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO FIND ANY MALFUNCTION. *JB

Sep 14, 2004

VISIBILITY,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

RATTLES COMING FROM THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE WINDSHIELD/DASHBOARD WHEN HITTING SMALL POT HOLES. CREAKING NOISES COMING THE RIGHT REAR SIDE OF THE VEHICLE AT ANY SPEED. SLIGHT RATTLES COMING FROM THE LEFT PASSENGER DOOR BEHIND THE DRIVER SEAT. SEATBELTS DO NOT RETRACT COMPLETELY. THEY'RE OFTEN GET CAUGHT BETWEEN DOORS CAUSING PAIN AND BODY DAMAGES. *AK

Mar 02, 2004

2004 HONDA Element Problems & Complaints

Complaints by Component

Frequently Asked Questions

How many problems does the 2004 HONDA Element have?

What are the most common problems with 2004 HONDA Element?

Where does this 2004 HONDA Element problem data come from?

Other Years - HONDA Element

Other HONDA Models

Similar Brands