2008 Honda Element

2008 Honda Element

The 2008 Honda Element is a compact SUV that offers versatility and practicality. It is available with two engine options: a 2.4-liter inline-four that produces 166 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter inline-four that produces 160 horsepower and 189 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Element is well-liked for its spacious interior, rugged exterior, and good fuel economy. However, it is criticized for its lack of power and sluggish performance with the 2.4-liter engine.

Engine

2.4-Liter Inline-Four

• Excessive Oil Consumption: Consuming up to 1 quart of oil every 1,000 miles.
  • Solution: Replace piston rings. Requires engine disassembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure: Loss of power, stalling, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replace crankshaft position sensor. Requires removal of the timing belt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

2.5-Liter Inline-Four

• Water Pump Failure: Vehicle overheating, coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace water pump. Requires removal of timing belt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Timing Chain Failure: Rattling noise at startup, loss of power, catastrophic engine failure if ignored.
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and tensioners. Requires engine disassembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears: Loss of power, transmission hesitation.
  • Solution: Replace transmission clutches or torque converter. Requires transmission removal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
• Transmission Control Module Failure: Transmission malfunctions, inability to shift gears.
  • Solution: Replace transmission control module. Requires diagnostic testing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Neutral Safety Switch Failure: Vehicle unable to start, safety issues.
  • Solution: Replace neutral safety switch. Requires removal of transmission pan.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Suspension

• Strut Mounts Wear: Squealing noises over bumps, reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts. Requires removal of strut assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Rear Sway Bar Links Failure: Clicking or clunking noises, reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links. Requires removal of suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• Lower Control Arm Bushings Wear: Loose steering, vibrations, reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace lower control arm bushings. Requires removal of suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Battery light illuminates, electrical system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replace alternator. Requires removal of alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Starter Solenoid Failure: Vehicle unable to start, clicking noises.
  • Solution: Replace starter solenoid. Requires removal of starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Headlight Switch Failure: Headlights unable to turn on or off.
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch. Requires removal of steering wheel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Exterior

• Rusty Brake Lines: Corrosion leads to brake line failure, safety concerns.
  • Solution: Replace brake lines. Requires removal of wheels and suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V111000
• Paint Peeling: Paint peels off body panels, especially on roofs.
  • Solution: Repainting the affected areas. Requires removing paint and applying new primer and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Sensor Failure: Airbag warning light illuminates, airbags may not deploy in an accident.
  • Solution: Replace airbag sensor. Requires removal of dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Seat Belt Buckle Failure: Seat belt buckle unable to fasten or unfasten.
  • Solution: Replace seat belt buckle. Requires removal of seat belt assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Rear Seat Hatch Release Cable Snaps: Difficulty opening rear seat hatch.
  • Solution: Replace release cable. Requires removal of interior panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Summary

The 2008 Honda Element has several common issues that can be costly to repair. The engine and transmission issues are particularly concerning, as they have the potential to cause major breakdowns. The electrical and suspension components are also prone to various problems. Overall, the 2008 Element has a mixed reliability record with some significant issues that owners should be aware of.