When Did They Stop Making The Honda Element

So, you're here because your beloved Honda Element is showing its age, or maybe you're just curious about its production history. Either way, let's address the big question: When did they stop making the Honda Element, and why does it matter to you as an owner? Honda ceased production of the Element in 2011. This discontinuation affects you because it means parts availability might become an issue, repair costs could increase, and understanding its unique characteristics is key to keeping it running smoothly for years to come.

Symptoms That Indicate Your Element Needs Attention

The Honda Element, while generally reliable, isn't immune to wear and tear. Here are some common symptoms Element owners might experience that are often related to the vehicle's age and the fact that parts are becoming more scarce:

Rough Idle or Stalling: The engine might feel shaky at a stop, or the vehicle could stall unexpectedly.
Check Engine Light: This can indicate a multitude of problems, from a simple loose gas cap to a more serious issue with the engine or emissions system.
Decreased Fuel Economy: You're filling up more often than you used to, even with your usual driving habits.
Transmission Problems: Slipping gears, harsh shifting, or failure to shift at all. This is particularly concerning given the age of the vehicle.
Suspension Issues: Clunking noises, excessive bouncing, or uneven tire wear. The Element's suspension components are wearing down after years of use.
Rust: Especially around the rear wheel wells and rocker panels. This is a common problem in older vehicles, particularly in areas with road salt.
Electrical Problems: Issues with power windows, locks, or the audio system. Wiring can degrade over time.
Catalytic Converter Failure: Reduced performance and a persistent check engine light (often code P0420).
Leaking Fluids: Oil, coolant, power steering fluid, or transmission fluid leaks. These can be serious and should be addressed promptly.

Root Cause: Age, Wear, and Parts Availability

The primary root cause of most problems with older Honda Elements boils down to age and wear. Components simply wear out over time, especially those made of rubber or plastic. Hoses crack, seals dry out, and moving parts experience friction. The fact that the Element is no longer in production exacerbates these issues. While Honda is generally good about supplying parts for older models, some specific components may become harder to find or more expensive.

Specifically, the K24 engine, shared with other Honda models, is generally robust, but issues like VTEC solenoid problems, oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, and timing chain stretch can occur with age and mileage. The automatic transmission, while reliable in its time, is susceptible to wear and tear, especially if maintenance was neglected. The early 2003-2006 models were particularly prone to transmission issues. The Real Time 4WD system, if equipped, can experience issues with the rear differential due to wear and tear on the clutches and fluid breakdown.

Rust is another significant concern, particularly in areas where road salt is used. The Element's boxy design and certain design choices (like the plastic body panels) can trap moisture and accelerate corrosion.

What Happens If Ignored?

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious and costly repairs down the line. A small oil leak can turn into a major engine problem. A worn suspension component can compromise handling and safety. Neglecting rust can lead to structural damage and even make the vehicle unsafe to drive. Delaying transmission repairs can lead to complete transmission failure, which is a very expensive fix. Furthermore, ignoring a check engine light can mask a problem that could cause significant engine damage.

Recommended Fixes

The appropriate fix depends on the specific problem, but here are some general recommendations:

Regular Maintenance: Stick to the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. This includes oil changes, fluid flushes, and filter replacements.
Address Leaks Promptly: Repair any oil, coolant, or other fluid leaks as soon as they are discovered.
Inspect and Replace Worn Suspension Components: Have your suspension inspected regularly and replace worn shocks, struts, ball joints, and bushings as needed.
Rust Prevention: Wash your Element regularly, especially during the winter months in areas with road salt. Consider applying rust inhibitors to vulnerable areas.
Transmission Service: Change the transmission fluid according to the recommended interval. If you're experiencing transmission problems, have a qualified mechanic diagnose the issue.
Check Engine Light Diagnosis: Don't ignore the check engine light. Have it diagnosed by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Use OEM or Quality Aftermarket Parts: When replacing parts, opt for genuine Honda (OEM) parts or reputable aftermarket brands. While aftermarket parts can be cheaper, quality can vary significantly, and using inferior parts can lead to premature failure.
Consult a Trusted Mechanic: Find a mechanic who is familiar with Honda vehicles and has experience working on older models. They can properly diagnose problems and recommend the best course of action.

Cost Estimates and Shop Advice

Cost estimates for repairs can vary widely depending on the specific problem, the parts required, and the labor rates in your area. Here are some rough estimates for common repairs:

Oil Change: $50-$100
Transmission Fluid Change: $100-$250
Suspension Component Replacement (e.g., shocks, struts): $200-$500 per corner
Catalytic Converter Replacement: $500-$1500 (depending on the brand and availability)
Transmission Repair/Rebuild: $2000-$4000
Engine Repair/Rebuild: $3000-$6000

Shop Advice:

Get Multiple Estimates: Before committing to any major repairs, get estimates from several different shops.
Ask About Warranties: Inquire about warranties on parts and labor.
Read Online Reviews: Check online reviews to see what other customers have to say about the shop.
Communicate Clearly: Clearly explain the symptoms you're experiencing to the mechanic.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask the mechanic questions about the diagnosis and repair process.

Credibility and Common Issues

Several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) were issued for the Honda Element over its production run. While not recalls, these TSBs provide valuable information about common problems and recommended fixes. For example, there were TSBs related to transmission issues on early models and specific engine noises. Researching TSBs related to your specific year and model of Element can provide valuable insights.

Data from online forums and owner communities indicate that transmission issues and rust are the two most common problems that Element owners face as their vehicles age. Many owners report experiencing transmission problems around 150,000-200,000 miles, while rust is a persistent issue, especially in northern states.

Furthermore, the unique rear differential used in the Real Time 4WD system requires a specific fluid (Honda Dual Pump Fluid II). Using the wrong fluid can damage the differential. Many owners have found that performing this service regularly (every 30,000-60,000 miles) can prevent costly repairs.

The Honda Element is a unique and versatile vehicle, but like any car, it requires proper maintenance and care to keep it running smoothly. By understanding its common issues and addressing them promptly, you can keep your Element on the road for many years to come.