Honda Element Fixes and Upgrades

[@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.

[@gregoryf9299]

The Reddit and FB groups are pretty active and helpful! "Welcome back", lol

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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

[@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.

[@jerimow8400]

July 18, 2023. Thanks for doing this. Great video! I have a 2007 SC and it’s nice to see somebody taking such good care of their SWEET E! Sure do wish you were nearby!!

[@77gmcnut]

We have an 07 SC as well. Great car. It looks pretty cool 😎

[@VacFink]

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

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@neurocosm]

This is the best overall fix-it Honda Element video out there.

[@jasonelizanigel9381]

Felt great watching this today. No hype, straight to the point as always. It seriously never gets old watching your videos on a Friday. Thank you

[@ericthecarguy]

Thank you!

[@rosshussey1723]

I have an Element SC 2008 and plan to keep it for many more years. Thanks for this video which makes many of the repairs doable and saves high labor costs that dealers charge.

[@rickbartley9255]

Thanks for posting the condenser fan replacement. Sure enough, my fan wasn't working either and what a difference replacing it has made for me. Thanks Eric!

[@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!!

[@juliebarnard6542]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@dratmanh1]

Eric your my hero. I have a 2003 EX from birth. My dad bought it and I took it over in 14. I have 135k on it. I’ve done a lot of work on it but I must admit Honda has done all the hard stuff. Just for your viewers knowledge if you have a Costco membership you go to their auto program and put in you need a repair they give you a coupon for 15% off at the major Honda dealer in their area. At least that puts repairs in the local shop price with Honda OEM work. It’s worth it if you can’t do some of these major repairs. Also if you haven’t tried them Scorpion Tires have the best ride I’ve ever had on my baby. Gets rid of that torque slide you get in wet weather. Handles like a race car now. Love you Brother!!!

[@rorymcclellan3740]

Thank you so much for all the great content you've made for servicing this car the right way. Your resources spent making these videos will not be let to waste by me!

[@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)

[@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!

[@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!

[@Greezbhal]

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

[@accordinglyryan]

It's truly the little things that add up to a well sorted car. Really been enjoying this Element series.

[@taylorgunkel4745]

Very encouraging to see over 300k, instead of buying a brand new car I’ve decided to just pay cash and get my Element running smooth and sound. I’ve seen these cars with over 400k any going. Great Video

[@jaymzx0]

There's nothing like fixing those minor problems that built up over the years to make the car feel brand new. This inspired me to order new lift struts for my Scion xA hatchback. Looking forward to that 'new strut feel'.

[@garza7676]

The most underrated car ever . Just bought one .

[@shanechostetler9997]

It’s interesting that the element that I’m buying has those loose doors too, I was thinking that something was either out of alignment or loose! 😊your spot on! Thank you.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@klc317]

Very satisfying to do all that stuff DIY and improve and freshen up an older car.

[@nak4651]

By the looks of that old seat belt and the junk underneath the driver seat....the prior owner obviously rode that thing hard and put it away wet many times!!

[@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!

[@spasticmuse4262]

I recently had to address a power steering issue issue with my mom's '05 Mazda Tribute[2.3L I4]; there was a leak THROUGH the pressure sensor switch! For draining/replacing the fluid, I just used the standard "brake bleeder hand vacuum" w/catch can. Worked a treat, also no drips.

[@BruceRichardsonMusic]

Hey @EricTheCarGuy...The door latches you tightened are only one-half of the adjustment for the door. Check the loops that the door attaches to at the bottom. They actually have some adjustment range, so you can get the doors fine-tuned to close with almost no motion. I noticed some wind/road noise, and sure enough, the loop on my driver's side door was a little loose, so the door overall was at its loosest possible position. When I got both sides adjusted, the doors now have a very tight seal, and there's no ping-pong motion at all when the doors shut. But where you'll really notice the difference is in how much quieter the car drives...you'll hear a big difference.

[@canwater270]

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

[@MeetJackBlack]

Struggling to choose between one of these or a Ridgeline. Though, I must admit, the ease in which you were able to do all of this work has really put some points in the Elements favour. I love tinkering with my cars and modifying, to make them uniquely my own. Just sold my trusty FJ cruiser, and I miss working on it already. Thanks for another great video!

[@Arokud]

The Ridgeline, FJ, and Element are all rugged, practical vehicles but the element lacks severely in towing capacity (only rated for 1500lbs from Honda) so if that's a concern I'd pass, but the Element offers so much practicality on a platform that's easy to work on. I came to my Element from a v6 4runner and while Toyota is pretty good at making things easy to work on, the Element is absurdly easy, there's almost always SO much room to work on anything in and on these.

[@anothernic]

Don't even own an Element, but you're a wealth of knowledge. Great video.

[@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.

[@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!!

[@350TPI]

I am supposed to be buying a really clean AWD 09 EX this weekend and i have been watching your videos. I have been shocked by how expensive the parts are for what was a rather cheap "economy" SUV. I am really enjoying the videos , thanks.

[@maxmoughal5183]

What i like to do with the power steering fluid flush is get the front of the car off the ground, suck out the fluid from the reservoir, disconnect the return line and place it into a clear bottle, plug off the return hole, fill the reservoir and then just keep turning the steering from lock to lock (no need to run the car). Keep topping up as the fluid gets low until the fluid going coming out and into the bottle turns clear, then just reconnect the return line and fill the reservoir back up. This way you can never run the pump dry or even put any load on it, plus you only use just the exact amount of fluid you need to fully flush the system perfectly, worked great on my Prelude :)

[@xiong421]

Installing turbos and engine swaps are cool but a simple video like this felt satisfying. Nothing wrong with maintaining OEM stuff.

[@meanpicker]

Great video! Much appreciated. I’m nursing a 2005 Orange element along with your help! 218k and still going...got new parts sitting here ready to go on.

[@effenfish661]

i've cleaned the condensers on my oldest vehicles and it definitely helps. thanks Eric!

[@tjwatson6883]

Eric is the "God of Elements"!!!

[@natemayorga]

DUDE...The loose latches!! I'm checking this on my 07 tomorrow...thanks for the video!

[@douglaslippertindy]

This was a great video. Very applicable to us shade tree mechanics. Given the work you did on your element, I would image a very high level of satisfaction with your work, given the things you fixed. Really enjoyed this one. And, the fact that you save stuff you might need in the future makes you my hero, as well.

[@brianbetts2866]

Picked up a awd 2004. 364500 on the odometer. All Alaska driven. Clunking, raddles and squeeks. Runs well.

[@billcunningham8485]

Eric - This is the top reason I love this channel. You just saved me a ton of money over bringing my car into the dealer to fix. I have a 2003 Honda Element EX that I have owned since new (now has 200K on the clock - LOVE my Element). For the past decade I too have had the back door shimmy on the passenger side rear door. It drove me nuts. Well today I am on my way to fixing that issue based on the information you shared at 10:00 into this video. The door with the shimmy... I had two screws missing and the third one was loose on the passenger side. The driver side the screws were there but all were loose. I ordered two screws from an online Honda Acura parts place as my local dealer didn't have them in stock and could only find one locally - would take two weeks to get the screws and they were $2.15 each - I ordered online for $.55 each as I needed a clip or two online so it worked out with the shipping cost. Here is the part number for those needing to replace lost screws: 93600- 06020-0A 93600-06020-0A . Thank you Eric. I enjoy the content you produce. The screws will be put in with blue thread locker.

[@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.

[@kristigail]

Straight, and to the point! Love this video, and I'm passing it on to my nephew who has an '05. Mine's an '07. Thanks Eric!❤

[@DaCoder]

Eric, I know you are probably only interested in replacing the blown speakers (and doing a slight upgrade while you are there) but: sealing the back of the speakers to the door, and the front of the speakers to the plastic grill will help with mid-bass a lot. Usually i use adhesive backed foam (really cheap online). Also, those Honda adapters aren't water tight (iirc) so if you notice a side dropping out during / after rain, you might put some hot glue on the back side of the connectors to seal them. I put them in my 2015 Accord and had that exact problem.

[@TheCapitalVice]

Thanks Eric, I think the Honda videos are knocking it out of the park. I've been watching a long time and even bought the V6 timing belt video you did a long time ago. I love the channel and even though I didn't really really like the Ford videos, I am glad it made you happy to own such a cool sleeper car at the end.

[@rhugh02]

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

[@agostinodibella9939]

Great video Eric! I like how all these small repairs add up to improving the car and make it more enjoyable to drive.

[@HugoGonzalez-t5c]

It definitely does ❤

[@ljweede9328]

Thanks for all the advise. I wondered why my doors were so shaky. Now I know where to look. And I need new speakers too.

[@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.

[@johnboy76122]

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

[@brianaustin1328]

The Honda Element is a cool car. Yours is an unusual color for an Element making this one even cooler. Thanks for keeping this one alive!

[@christophers5510]

im thinkin bout buying an Element as my daily driver. seems like a great vehicle for daily use.

[@xenospark713]

Blessed with another Element video!

[@thelieinbelieve6594]

Love this channel. It's awesome you've had the E so long. I've owned 3 over the last 15 years. My favorite vehicle. I'll continue to buy them til I can't, lol.

[@josephreisinger33]

I still have the leather rap shift knob from my 89 Accord LXI. Took it off before I towed it to the scrap yard. Cool , I can do it video. Tanks E man.

[@stuartstuart866]

We are original owners of a similar 2009 CR-V with just shy of 190,000 miles and except for the cruddy air conditioner, it has been amazingly reliable.

[@v-gc7257]

Nice upgrades. Wow. Beautiful outcome

[@deeparks3112]

Yes, very helpful. I learned several things about my 04 Element that will come in handy. Thank you!

[@morganbush2332]

Hey ETCG, CRutchfield says you have to cut and modify the door trim panel, and the factory speaker cover, on the rear door. Did you have to do that?

[@ddvss]

Thanks for the video. I've never heard someone say "I Believe" so many times.

[@darrylmcleman6456]

It wont be a pilot hole !!! you are working on an Element!!! You knew some nut would have to say it!!! CHEERS from Westcoast Canada!

[@rickystapp439]

So glad to see the element love going strong in 2021! I've fixed so many things on my 07 SC over the years from your videos. I lost track of how much crap I've had to do but you've always had great videos to follow. Funny enough tomorrow my new window regulator and motor come in cause those went out today lmao!

[@rickystapp439]

Update a week later and my 07 SC is totaled :[ RIP

[@coffee5704]

kinda cool seeing the exact same year and color of my own car

[@737tech]

Thanks for the tips. My Element has 215,000 miles. Been a great car. Only issue has been the brakes. The starter lasted 200,000 miles. Been great. Although I am wondering if I should replace items to be proactive.

[@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

[@MediumHalf]

Love that paint color on Elements

[@ericthecarguy]

Me too!

[@Adrian.Hasenfratz]

Man, I really want an element.

[@SA-ho2nw]

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

[@llew-AZ]

These cars are a beast. Loved mine for the 5 years I had it. Until I rolled it @ 75 mph 2-3/4 times off the I17 northbound out of Phoenix at Bloody Basin. Walked away from that if that tells you anything as well. Honda well built. Only thing is in big wind storms your like a sailing boat with sails at full mast.

[@gregschoeman1747]

Well that gave me a ton of useful info. My 2004 Element has that side door movement issue so I will be checking the bottom bolts. Mine also has the rear ‘spoiler’ lip which I have not seen on any other Elements. Thanks for another useful video Eric!

[@sharifsircar]

I just love how much fun you are having with that

[@314computernerd]

Eric. If you ever have another Honda with a seat belt buckle code or a fraying seat belt. Take it to the dealer, Honda usually covers seat belts and buckles under a lifetime warranty.

[@ericthecarguy]

Not anymore. Honda changed it to 15 years.

[@cosborne06]

Great video Eric 👍 looking forward to the paint touchup video to come

[@SheryarKhanJAPAN]

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

[@ronwatson4902]

I really like the little details. Thanks

[@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.

[@KT_One]

19:58 wow there’s actually some sound insulation in that thing! You’d never guess it driving one ha ha.

[@MudGoose]

Just ordered the Anzo headlights, via your link. Thanks for all the How-Tos

[@dratmanh1]

The kicker comprt 63/4 sub drops right in the sub box.sounds great too.

[@markmauldin5867]

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

[@rich1953]

The stereo speakers, they are the most important repair! Not joking, have to have my music.

[@elguaguero23]

Love your videos Eric , one learn a great deal just watching the Pros ,thank you

[@caboverkaylee1374]

Hi I just bought a 2003 element and these videos are very interesting and motivating. 👍🏼

[@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.

[@kathrynleaser5093]

Wow...!! Great video. Love these cars. Really cool that your into them as well , we will all benefit from this!! As always love your content it's so good and easy to follow.

[@jaguars08221]

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

[@armandolopez8983]

You are an EXCELLENT teacher!

[@TheJKDGuy]

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