2011 Honda Element

The 2011 Honda Element is a compact SUV that was offered with one engine and transmission option: a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 166 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque. The Element was praised for its versatility, spacious interior, and rugged exterior, but criticized for its poor fuel economy and lack of refinement.

Engine

• 2.4-liter Inline-4 Engine

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some Element owners have reported excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Symptoms may include low oil level warnings, blue smoke from the exhaust, and engine seizing.
    • Solution: The issue can be resolved by replacing the piston rings and valve stem seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the intake manifold gasket can cause vacuum leaks, leading to rough idling, reduced engine power, and increased emissions.
    • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold gasket is necessary to fix the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears can lead to delayed shifting, loss of power, and poor fuel economy.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the transmission is required to fix the problem.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged front suspension bushings can cause excessive vibration, noise, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the bushings is necessary to fix the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Alternator failure leads to insufficient charging of the battery, resulting in electrical system issues, dimming headlights, and potential engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator is necessary to fix the problem.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Side Mirror Adjustment Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the side mirror adjustment motor prevents the driver from adjusting the mirrors, leading to reduced visibility.
  • Solution: Replacing the side mirror adjustment motor is necessary to fix the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Panel Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard panel, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight, can cause visual damage.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the dashboard panel is required to fix the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2011 Honda Element has some notable issues, they are generally less severe and less expensive to repair compared to other vehicles. The most common issues include excessive oil consumption, intake manifold gasket failure, and transmission slipping. The Element’s overall reliability is considered to be average, and many owners are satisfied with the vehicle’s durability and versatility.