Honda Element Fixes and Upgrades

[@bradmerilic6848]

I REALLY wish Honda still made these. My absolute most favorite vehicle I have ever owned by far.

[@boomerguy9935]

Every time I take my 2006 Element (bought new) to my local Honda Service Center for maintenance, the salesmen always ask me to trade it in because they said they could sell Element's all day, every day. The demand is still there. Everyone I've met who owned an Element, still has "seller's remorse". My Element is being kept in perfect shape for my daughter because I will NEVER sell it. Honda Corporation is stupid for not making this anymore. They advertised it to the "surfer dudes" while the main market is older people who actually use it as a UTILITY vehicle. I've lost count of all the the things, people and animals I've transported in it. Did I mention that I love my Element? It's not perfect but it is the Swiss Army Knife of vehicles. Oh yeah, I live in the rural area of the mountains and my AWD has never let me down.

[@RichardFiander]

Thanks Eric! I have had my 2003 Element for 8 years and your videos always helped and inspired me fix her. I really like how you show when things don't work as planned and how you manage to Get er Done. I strongly suggest people get clear keyboard overlays so staying dirty doesn't break you computer. Well I just bought a 2005 5 speed Element so I may have a few reruns to watch :D Cheers!

[@steveherzing6596]

Good stuff, as always! I got a slightly used Silver 2004 Element EX 4WD AT with 68300 miles no dents this March. A close retired family friend had bought it to carry his bass fiddle for community orchestra but, he doesn’t drive anymore. Got a screaming deal and I love it. I’m about to put the bumper cover for a washer pump and I really wanted to add fog lights when I do it. So, thanks for your excellent timing Eric. SH Katy, TX (west Houston)

[@ncsarola]

I identify with these minor fixes. I get insane when something doesn’t work in my car. OCD I guess. I just chased a broken wire for 3.5 hours for an insignificant passenger side under dash light. It bothers me! You feel better when everything works. Not everyone gets this but I know Eric does.

[@Rockardo_]

I could spend allll day trying to fix the smallest thing in my car but when its a customer car it takes everything in me to even take a look at the thing

[@hanknorton3150]

I recently replaced alternator on my element and the driver side Bolt was a tough one. In the video that I just watch from you I noticed that you took the condenser fan out. And that allows for extra room to get that the driver side bolt that holds the alternator to the engine. block.

[@mszabol69]

This video was extremely well done! I learned a lot. It's all those little details that make projects like this easier and I am impressed and thankful for the extra time and effort you put in to catch everything on video!! All the camera angle changes and shots takes a lot of planning and work, not to mention the editing. Thank you!!

[@PirateMTH_ToddH]

There nothing wrong with some "clean" fun every now and then. These simple fixes add up to giving this car a long, comfortable and enjoyable life. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@soggypeanut9161]

Hey Eric, fellow Element owner here. Mine's an '03 EX and it has the subwoofer you mentioned here in your video. Could you PLEASE do a video about properly replacing it? I've scoured KZbin and I haven't found a single good video on how to do so. Love the content here on your channel! Super informative and easy to follow! Keep up the good work!

[@Angel_KAL]

bought my second E, and had to replace hatch struts, condenser fan and fix that rattle from the rear passenger door. This video helped alot specially the rear passenger door, because I thought something was loose in the the door, never thought to look at the bottom. THANKS

[@TheLastxtear]

For the fan, if you take a rubber ban you can put pressure in between the screw and the Philip head. It will screw off even if it is stripped. Just incase anyone wants to try.

[@theodoreolson8529]

I've owned 4 Honda Elements and just bought my 5th. Yes, my 5th Element. The others I owned were years 06 and earlier. This go around I bought an 08 5spd stick. On the Honda Element Owners website forum there was a long long list of DIY projects you can do yourself. Things like converting the rear power jack to be "always on" which is handy for camping. Adding a grill screen in the lower grill to protect the radiator. Additionally there are how to guides for the standard stuff like installing fog lights (if you can even find them anymore).

[@tjwatson6883]

Eric is the "God of Elements"!!!

[@canwater270]

Excellent video with great narration and tips on how to maintain and improve an older Honda Element. Thanks!

[@TxMx214]

I don’t even own a Honda Element but attention to detail is what kept me wat hung til the end. Like Eric the car guy I too am ocd when it comes to having a vehicle as mint as possible. Great video!!

[@jss27560]

Just got my element and it will need some work to make it so it’s in good condition. I guess I have more videos to watch. Thanks

[@m012741k0m847]

In the high trim models, there's a folding center console-arm that attaches to the driver seat. Worth picking up if you find one in the junkyard or on ebay.

[@ericthecarguy]

I've seen those. Seems like it would be a nice addition. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@leamers100]

@@ericthecarguy From my limited knowledge, those arm rests were only on automatics. The reasoning seems to be that if the seat was adjusted too far forward, the manual shifter may have problems going into gear. Not that automatic Elements are rare, but just a little bit of knowledge.

[@jcrif]

I gave my son my 2005 Honda Element like 10 years ago and he recently decided he wanted to get something new and I am taking the car back. I'm kinda excited about this and want to play with some upgrades. I like the car. I still have the tent attachment I bought more than a decade ago.

[@v-gc7257]

Nice upgrades. Wow. Beautiful outcome

[@armandolopez8983]

You are an EXCELLENT teacher!

[@canuckfixit7722]

4:18 I bought Hella (2721TB Twin Blister Standard Miniature 2721 Bulbs, 12V, 1.2W, 2 Pack) bare bulbs on Amazon for under $10. Pulled out the burnt out bulbs and inserted new ones in the original Honda bulb bases. Works great if your bases are still good. 90% cheaper than buying whole bulb "cartridges" from the Honda stealership.

[@rhugh02]

I can watch this guy fix shit on the Element all day... Great VIDEO BRO. Love my Elements. Have two 07' 10' Subscribed.

[@johnboy76122]

I love doing the little things to spruce up my old Hondas

[@TheJKDGuy]

Your video keep me up at night I have a 2003 with all the same problems ❤😂

[@BuddhaPalm-j3c]

Great video. Learnt a lot about the Elements. Thanks for sharing. 🤙🏼

[@CMC61]

Eric great video, on fan replacement I found that if you take off the top support bracket above the fans it makes it much easier to take out the fans, less chance of damage. Also thanks for the tip about the 3 screws on the bottom of the doors. I need to check mine.

[@27Zangle]

I love this series. I am in the market for an Element in the coming weeks and have been looking for a decently low mileage one without breaking the bank. Some have come but they go quicker than I can jump on them, so now I am looking Elements with around 200k miles that are in great shape. I am just weary of purchasing something with such high mileage though.

[@helpeveryoneinlife]

I LOVE THE WAY HOW YOU DOING YOUR WORK.THANK YOU SIR.

[@SA-ho2nw]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video. Very useful for future repairs.

[@bikeman1x11]

Awesome design to have a speaker cover so you dont have to take the whole panel off get new head unit!

[@97I30T]

Agreed. Almost every car I've ever changed speakers on had the speaker grilles integrated into the door panels.

[@IIGrayfoxII]

You didn't consider getting LED replacement bulbs for the gauge cluster and center console? This way you can also get say a Red LED for the hazard light switch and the hot side of the A/C, a blue one for the cold side of the A/C and white for everything else, would give the interior a more modern look.

[@ericthecarguy]

Personally, I've seen nothing but problems installing LEDs in gauge clusters. They just don't have the same amp draw as the indecent counterparts, not to mention, these are specialty bulbs. Also, the bulbs don't dictate the color of those individual indicators by design. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@djporsche3922]

this was so satisfying to watch

[@markmauldin5867]

Another great video, I’ve learned some great tips to maintain my son in laws postal Element.😊👍

[@Kizzle001]

Led cluster bulbs were way cheaper and made a huge improvement in mine.

[@jaguars08221]

Great video, I painted my bezels tangerine orange to match the car.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

You weren't kidding the element is a ton like the crv my mom has a 2005 crv and it's ac nobs and everything look the same @EricTheCarGuy

[@timscheuermann2554]

looks like a exact copy of every thing i fixed on my ep3 when i first got it.

[@RenoBusdriver]

Eric by watching these Honda videos makes me want to give up my Kia Soul for a Element.

[@CRAPO2011]

Steering feel is probably way better in the Honda.

[@RenoBusdriver]

@@CRAPO2011 What I dislike about my Kia is the rear suspension. Handles like a dream otherwise.

[@spacecat7247]

Owned 2. An 06 exl awd and an 07 sc. I would try it. Loved the element.

[@jeffniznik2963]

Great video Eric!

[@MrWilliam.Stewart]

Ezza really is in his element. I'll show myself out.

[@carlclink9993]

I love my element. Now to give her some TLC.

[@dav8388]

Changing the factory subwoofer can make a big difference. I got a 19 Jeep Cherokee with the 9 speaker "alpine" system. I changed the speakers with the Mopar Kicker upgrade, and just those by themselves made a big difference, but then I swapped the OE sub with a universal Kicker 8". The bass hits so hard now that my rear view mirror vibrates on the stock head unit and amp.

[@1jackvalley580]

Excellent video Eric, thank you so much. Your Honda Element looks fantastic and I love the color. Did you buy it that color or did you have it painted, if so what color is it and what's the stock number for the color? Thanks so much🌟

[@colonelhacker3661]

Hey man, that spoiler is going to add at least 3 herse-perrrs.

[@jhuntosgarage]

Thanks for sharing! I'm oddly feeling like I want an Element. 🤔

[@LucasHanyok]

That Integra back there 👀

[@caboverkaylee1374]

Hello Erick, enjoy your videos, sir what is it when turning on the ac that the engine shakes a bit

[@teamhogmeat]

Eric is it true that Honda lifetime warranties the seat belt latch and other safety items? Thank you

[@alexojeda4779]

Hello Eric, love your work and videos. I was hoping you could help me please 🙏 I'm stuck with my 2004 Honda element, my car keeps bucking thru the gears. I have changed Oil change V-THECH housing withe all switches Oil pressure switches I had a blinking D light,it was a code 26 and that has been fixed. I was hoping those thing would fix the problem but no luck,so now I'm turning to the element Guru...Lol. I hope you can help me. Thank you and keep up the great work

[@mustangjoe8352]

👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍Thank you for making this video ,any opportunity to watch element upgrade,repair and maintenance video ,I watch enjoy.Had mine since new 2006 ,5 speed, I really like driving it,How do you like driving your manual transmission, compared to your automatic Honda Element ? Honda ace on you tube has a great video on how to reset your air bag light Works for me after I tried it 10 times

[@ericthecarguy]

I like driving the manual better. It seems to have more power than the auto and is more fun to drive.

[@jrus1]

love ALL your repair videos in detail.. its so soothing. how long does it take you to film and edit? what camera do you use?

[@davidclark7352]

I tried installing LED fog lamp bulbs into new fog lamp housing to replace one that had shorted out. The LED bulbs ended up blowing the inline fuse somehow. What's more is the new housing's method of holding the bulb in is not as good as the original housing. Seller sent me replacement ones and I just left the halogen bulbs that came with it so I didn't have to bother with it. But I really want yellow LED in them.

[@jaykua6193]

warning on removing the seats- if you remove your seats and start the car up, you will need to reset the SRS airbag light. it can be done via ODBII scanner that has that feature.

[@themindunset]

Eric... Your videos are so damn good and helpful. thank you.

[@miguelare3]

I think there was a service recall for those seatbelt buckle and if I'm not mistaken honda replaces srs components for free it's a lifetime thing the only reason I know that is because I had a cb7 accord and went to buy one at the dealership and they said it was lifetime replacement so free!

[@ericthecarguy]

Not anymore. They changed it to 15 years instead of lifetime.

[@HotRod-wv4vm]

I also need to replace the hinge that holds the driver’s door

[@timkimone]

Very good Eric !!! How about my car Transmission D light blinking , what problem for that , car still run good ?! Can you help Thank you so much!!!

[@Ashleyhowie332]

When you removed the seats, did you have to disconnect the battery? I've read online that if you don't , you'll continue to get an error code. I want to take mine out and have them redone.

[@arthurkane7819]

What fuse Amp should I use if replacing the original console lights to Red Led lights? Any tips is helpful.

[@kristigail]

Now that I think about it, my passenger SRS light is on, and according to some diagnosis, it's the retractor. Honda won't warranty it. Any ideas? TIA!

[@rodneybrown9496]

Hey E when I change my liftgate supports on my 2003 Honda element... One of the bolts on the bottom right kept turning and loose...How do I fix that?

[@fgcvhhbvjhbj]

Considering it needed quite a few parts, would it not be worth to try and get a parts car for like $500?

[@dimensionalmystic]

My AC on my 2006 works when it wants to. Any thoughts? Also, what stereo do you suggest?

[@HotRod-wv4vm]

I installed LED’s in my dash but a couple aren’t that bright. I may just go back to stock factory bulbs

[@bwest-yq3uc]

Watch they still made those. Did they have issues and they stop making them? I like those wide open doors. Remind me of my '66 Lincoln in my younger days. Those suicide doors were common then.

[@ericthecarguy]

Sadly they stopped production in 2011. Honda has a tendency to kill a model now and then. This was one of them.

[@garyangelstad5212]

Great vid. I have a 03 awd "y" package w/ sunroof in the rear. 4spd auto. What shift solenoids are the proper replacements for the mrja trans. I have the dreaded intermittent, erratic shifting. Runs and drive great other than that.

[@antoniofunnyguy]

Eric did you consider putting LEDs on the dashboard for a more modern look? Thanks

[@ericthecarguy]

No, and I don't recommend it. I've tried it on other vehicles in the past a customer request, and it never worked out. LED's don't use the same amps as indecent. The amps they use are important to conform with original design.

[@CRAPO2011]

It usually ends up looking like crap

[@NoWr2Run]

Feel's GREAT DON'T IT when the little things but not necessarily cheap things are working on your rig. Also blacked all the CHROME CRAP ON MY ( SILVERJEEP ) TO BLACK, SO MUCH BETTER.

[@maingun07]

Thanks Eric. Lots of tips here that can be used on other non-Honda jobs. My friend had a question that I don't have an answer for. Does it matter if you install nitrogen lift struts like on your rear hatch upside down?

[@ericthecarguy]

I don't think so, but if you install them the other way it might collect more dirt as the water drains around them when the hatch is closed.

[@maingun07]

@@ericthecarguy About what I figured and the only answer I had for her. I should have asked you if they still work properly, but I just now went outside and flipped the ones on the hood of my F350 and they work just fine so I put them back. Thanks anyhow for the reply.

[@davidmccleary5540]

Do you recommend a good Armor All cleaning of the dash before replacing the instrument cluster?

[@gmiller442]

Path to riches… 1. Move to near ETCG 2. Open Honda parts supply house 3. Rake in CASH!! 4. Pick out new yacht

[@teacherlynn671]

I have dash lights out in my CRV. I was wondering how you find out what bulbs are needed and did you get your bulbs through the dealer? I want to have the bulbs before I start the job. Been enjoying you for years.

[@CRAPO2011]

Honda Parts Now probabky has the diagram

[@ericthecarguy]

I get them at the dealer. You can also find Honda dealers online that will ship them to you. Be sure to get ALL the bulbs. You'll find that after replacing the ones that are out, the rest will follow suit.

[@valdezruiz2]

Where can I buy the same phone holder???

[@pedroc7727]

The miles aren't showing on my E and and not lighting eather

[@TheMichiganMetalhead]

40:36 that condenser fan looks like a really creepy face. You cannot see it.😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@DJThiccums]

😭😭 I’m putting a new engine in mine. Head gasket broke and is cheaper to get a new engine lowered miles. 2003 236000 miles.

[@seymoarsalvage]

Fyi to anyone, that OEM fan motor is ~$240!

[@ericthecarguy]

Sadly the OE parts are better than any aftermarket part I've tried.

[@seymoarsalvage]

@@ericthecarguy I own a Toyota, I understand the struggle lol

[@al-du6lb]

who else has used a turkey baster as their liquid extractor for power steering fluid?

[@PhillyDee215]

I gotta spend some quality time with my cars too😎I haven't even washed them in over a year🤦‍♂️

[@ua7pyro591]

Straight up neglect

[@PhillyDee215]

@@ua7pyro591 that's what I was thinking😬

[@ericthecarguy]

I don't wash mine either. As soon as I drive out of the lot in front of the shop they're dirty again. Lots of dust.

[@PhillyDee215]

@@ericthecarguy agreed🤦‍♂️🤣

[@denardcarlisle4283]

You could get bit by the car stereo bug.

[@ericthecarguy]

Honestly, I mostly listen to talk radio. In most of my cars, I don't use the radio at all. The Fairmont and the Truck are good examples. Thanks for the comment.

[@chinafukr69kack31]

Great video brother, I love the elements. I want a 5sp AWD with SC bumpers and a 6th gear added. Maybe a type-s head.

[@Knockaswagga]

I’m replacing everything lol

[@513Rookie]

Eric, you need to start a new channel "EricTheHondaElementGuy"...haha. I can't really say anything because I own two Elements (03 & 06) myself. Sincerely appreciate everything you've done for years, but sincerely appreciate the recent focus. Stay dirty friend.

[@KTHActual]

Love this series. Never owned one. Probably never will but it’s still enjoyable

[@FrankDaBank25]

You should consider getting one if you want a larger vehicle with a ton of room, good on gas and that's reliable as hell

[@bradentibbles]

I had the same seatbelt code pop up occasionally. I noticed it was when I adjusted the seat, and would clear when I restarted the car. I found that one of the connectors under the seat was not solid. Cleaned it out and added some dielectric grease, and no more code! Worth check before purchasing a new buckle if anyone else is having that issue.

[@delmarrathbone7092]

Honda has always replaced seat belts in all of my vehicles free of charge. As far as I know, they are guaranteed for the life of the vehicle.

[@questioner1596]

What country are you in?

[@delmarrathbone7092]

@@questioner1596 USA

[@WisconsinEric]

I just left the same comment before reading yours about seatbelts. I remember dealers fixing them for no charge, but that was 15+yrs ago. Not sure if it still holds true. Worth asking a dealer before dropping cash and spending time.

[@delmarrathbone7092]

@@WisconsinEric They replaced the drivers seatbelt in my 1995 Civic a couple of years ago. Only way they won’t replace is if the belt is torn or ripped.

[@WisconsinEric]

@@delmarrathbone7092 Nice. I remember issues with the seatbelts in the late 80's and early 90's Hondas/Acuras being fixed at no charge by the dealers. I used to drive a '92 Integra GSR with '01 spec B18c5 Type R motor. Owned a couple CRX Si's before that.

[@juliebarnard6542]

Love watching your Element videos. I have a 2004 CRV I’m trying to keep on the road and as original as possible.

[@VacFink]

These are my favorite kinds of fixes to do on my cars. Little maintenance jobs that add up to a nice clean driver.

[@CRAPO2011]

Hate the crunching sound Honda power steering fluid reservoir caps make :-)

[@ALAPINO]

I wanted an Element with the idea that I would use it with the RV. Ended up going with the CR-V instead. I don't regret the choice as the CR-V (2006) had been bullet proof aside from bushings and normal brake work. I still want an older Element for the extra open space in the rear. (That's what she said) Thanks for sharing, Eric!

[@A_guy840]

The dash light how to was extremely helpful. My fuel gauge light is out but I assumed it would be a big chore to remove the dash so I never even bothered trying. That’s VERY easy!

[@originalblackplate]

Eric, thanks for all the helpful tips! Just a reminder - American Honda has a lifetime warranty on their seatbelts so if you run into a problem again with your personal car, hit the dealer up and they just might surprise you! OMG - you're an OEM wiper blade guy too! My people! LOL

[@sobieskilinda]

You are the car doctor! I can watch you work your magic all day long. I may be getting an Element so I’m learning all I can about them.

[@Greezbhal]

I miss my Element! Great video as always. Your mini series saved me thousands.

[@frankmcmug706]

To get perfect acoustic performance, keep polarity of wiring to the speakers consistent so that the 4 speakers will be driven in same phase.

[@xenospark713]

Blessed with another Element video!

[@WisconsinEric]

The seatbelt issues may be covered under warranty as it is a safety issue. If memory serves me correct the old Hondas/Acuras from the late 80's early 90's with power seatbelts were fixed free at the dealers(memory could be wrong). Also Honda replaced millions of defective airbags at no cost to owners well after warranty was expired. Again I am not sure if seatbelts are covered, but it may be worth making a phone call to a dealer before dropping cash.

[@edwardgreenjr167]

Couple things: 1) For people looking to do their own repairs (yay, you should) - Some of these fixes may not apply the same way on the 07+ models due to the refresh. At least the seatbelts, since they are in the front seats instead of the doors. Just double check part #s to be sure. 2) They DID offer a leather wrapped shift knob, for both the auto and Manuel! 3)Looking forward to your clearcoat advice, as my wife's orange '07 has that same issue in spades. I've heard its a common issue with this vintage. 4) Now you are making me want to get those same lights. Sigh, more $$$ for the toaster.

[@johnaclark1]

Aren't Honda seat belts warrantied for life?

[@12namleht]

When you turn the belt in to get the warranty...They Kill you...so yes, warrantied for life

[@ericthecarguy]

Not anymore. They told me they were only warrantied for 15 years now.

[@johnaclark1]

@@ericthecarguy Well, that's not cool.

[@JAW88]

I just bought a 2006 Honda element and I absolutely love it! Looking forward to upgrading the speakers and getting all of those bulbs that are out in it replaced now that I know how things to you. I’ve always appreciated your channel thank you so much!

[@bernalsilva]

thanks for the video I have 203 with 270000 miles. Hoping to push it to 350000. maintain it like it was a porsche