2006 Honda Element

The 2006 Honda Element is a unique and versatile vehicle loved for its spacious interior, easy-to-clean surfaces, and boxy, utilitarian design. It came standard with a 2.4L i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine producing 156 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic transmission were available. The Element’s practicality and cargo capacity are major selling points, but some owners dislike its unconventional styling and potential for wind noise. Some owners have found the fuel economy lacking compared to other compact SUVs.

Engine

2.4L i-VTEC 4-Cylinder

• VTC Actuator Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon cold start-up, typically lasting a few seconds. This is due to the Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator not properly locking in place.
  • Solution: Replacing the VTC actuator with an updated design.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Adjustment Needed
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, rough idle, and potential misfires. Honda engines require periodic valve adjustments to maintain proper clearances.
  • Solution: Adjusting the valve clearances to factory specifications.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, and rough running.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, or transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on which solenoid needs to be replaced and if the transmission needs to be dropped
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the rear suspension, especially over bumps. Reduced handling stability.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises from the front suspension when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window operates slowly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on, dimming headlights, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Exterior door handles can become brittle and break, especially in colder climates.
  • Solution: Replacing the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Wipers do not function or only function intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacing the windshield wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Upholstery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The original seat fabric or vinyl on the 2006 Element can wear out or tear prematurely, especially on the driver’s seat.
  • Solution: Replacing or reupholstering the seats.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sun Visor Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Sun visors no longer stay in the upright position and droop down, obstructing the driver’s view.
  • Solution: Replacing the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Honda Element is a generally reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues such as VTC actuator rattle, shift solenoid failures, and rear trailing arm bushing wear. Most of these issues are not catastrophic and can be addressed with relatively affordable repairs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to more significant mechanical problems that can affect drivability. Addressing these issues promptly can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.