Used 2003 Honda Element Consumer Reviews
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Nice Little Green Machine
DG, 08/13/2007
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Versatility and reliable powertrain are biggest attributes of this EX model AWD vehicle. Removing the rear seats turns it into a cargo van. No carpeting a plus, cleans up easily with vacuum and a wet sponge. Won't win races, but it wasn't designed for that purpose. A few defects, but were covered under warranty. 21 mpg mixed highway and city miles not great, but no surprise due to curb weight, AWD, and lack of aerodynamics. Tight turning radius is impressive. Stress on front "A" pillars may have resulted in windshield cracking. Hard to believe this vehicle is shorter bumper- to-bumper than the Civic in the same model year.
Excellent alternative to an all-out-SUV
Lawrance, 02/12/2007
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've had my E for about 2.5 years now and haven't had any problems worth taking to the dealer for. The drivers seat needs new bushings to keep it from shifting, and every 10 minutes or so, the headlights go dim for a second before returning to normal. Both of these items are inherent to the 2003 model. The cabin does have some wind noise, and the suspension is rather jarring. Otherwise, this vehicle has been 100% reliable. It has a very tight turning circle, and is very fun to drive. The lack of carpeting makes for easy cleaning and the seat configurations make it one of the most versatile vehicles on the road. I usually get 21 MPG on average. Wish Honda made an upscale version.
2003 Honda Element for sale near you
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2003 Turbo Toaster
KGRoberts, 12/27/2007
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I traded in a Toyo 4Runner for this Element. There's a lot of room on the inside, especially in the back seat. Seats sit up high. Room for 4 people only. Zippy with the 5Manual trans. Plastic panels are utilitarian, easy care, no door dings. This engineer takes notes on every tank of fuel, 26MPG average. Honda replaced my A/C system 6k miles out of warranty (no charge to me). Happy Honda owner.
One of the best cars (trucks?) ever!
Ullanta, 07/06/2010
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Honda has a talent for making unique niche vehicles. The CRX, the del Sol, and now the Element have provided great combination of ability, quirkiness, and practicality that could not be matched. Even though there are many imitators today, none match the utility, configurability, comfort, and handling of the Element. I can roll (with a ramp!) a 5-foot long, 3-foot tall, almost four-foot wide cart right into the back of the Element. Or carry three passengers in style and comfort. Or sleep in the back comfortably. More headroom and legroom (in front AND back) than anything else I've been in. All kinds of nifty little storage areas. Handles much more nimbly and stably than seems possible.
Reliable as the sun
Erik, 02/10/2018
updated 02/13/2023
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
Update Feb 2023: Starter failed at 179,000mi. First failure. Remanufactured starters are still available direct from Honda. Update: 169,000mi on her, everything is still fine. Original: Only complaints are the 4-speed auto being unable to really use the powerband as effectively as the 5AT or 5MT, and the drivers seat eventually makes my back sore after a few hours. Otherwise, everything is great. 155,000+ in it with absolutely no failures. Only needs routine maintenance, which is easy to do, with exception of oil dripping on the AWD components when changing the filter (but there’s a part available to help this). Starts the first time, every time. Goes through snow and dirt as easily as pavement. Ours has been to Burning Man five times, no issues with heavy dust exposure. Rear seats come out, and anyone 6’1” or under can sleep in the back, no problem. Rear sunroof is removable, and can be popped for great airflow. Dog loves the waterproof rear seats, and is easy to load up, since it’s easy to step into. It does 95% of anything you need it to do, and you can trust the Element to get it done.
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