Used 2003 Honda Element SUV Consumer Reviews
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Utili-toaster
jlawton, 10/19/2010
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
58 of 58 people found this review helpful
At its heart, the Element is exactly what a small SUV should be- practical, reliable, and easy to drive. What sets the car apart is simply how over-the-top utilitarian it really is. The interior is nearly indestructible. The rubberized floors are easy to clean, the seats are waterproof, and the folding rear seats open up a cavernous cargo area that will easily accommodate mountain bikes with the wheels still attached. For a giant rolling box, it handles surprisingly well- though not a sports car, the car feels stable and relatively nimble on mountain roads. An excellent buy for dog owners, college students, or anybody with an active lifestyle.
This car feels like home now
chasitye, 07/13/2014
2003 Honda Element DX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
63 of 65 people found this review helpful
When i first saw this car I thought it was the ugliest thing I had ever seen. Upon further driving and testing, it was PERFECT! The roominess has spoiled me. I can't even tell you how many times I've hauled things inside the car with the seats up and peoples jaws drop because they "had no idea". Countless times I have used the suicide doors to get the kids out and people come up to my car to check it out. It's a 2003!!! Don't act like you've never seen one. With two kids under 10 the rubber floors have been a Godsend! I can't tell you how many ice creams and food disasters have been avoided. Not to mention that after beach trips I just take my leaf blower and blow ALL the sand out of the car
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Hard worker
Raye , 07/07/2010
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
38 of 39 people found this review helpful
My 2003 has 200100 miles on it. Still has the same rotors on the front, shock and struts, muffler system, and surprisingly the same spark plugs that have been checked frequently if they need replacement. Yeah, i have the frozen door lock syndrome and the drivers seat is ripped and uncomfortable, and noisy ride, but this little baby has been good to me. I will be replacing struts and brake pads etc. soon to be on the safe side. Best reliable vehicle I've ever owned.
This car is a survivor!!
moondaisy_us, 09/25/2009
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
38 of 39 people found this review helpful
My husband recently totaled our Element. He swerved to miss a deer at 60MPH, spun out on the road berm, and the car rolled down the highway, landed on its wheels, then smashed into the ditch/hillside. The only part of the car that was not mutilated was the back hatch door. The car was smashed beyond recognition. My husband was uninjured except for a goose-egg on his forehead since the drivers airbag did not go off. This vehicle held together so well that even if it held 4 people, all would most likely have been unharmed, except from flying glass. ALL this and the engine would still run. I would totally buy another Element, and plan to as soon as possible! This car is amazing!
In my Element
In my Element, 08/15/2010
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
36 of 37 people found this review helpful
I purchased the Element new in 2003. It was easily the ugliest vehicle I had ever seen, but after one test drive (on a dare) I bought it. Best car I've ever owned.
An SUV without the guilt!
happy joe, 07/08/2003
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
It drives more like a car than a truck but like a really FUN car. Its small outside belies it's roomy inside. Even though i've always driven a large car i still felt cramped. Well no more! And when we double up everyone chooses my little element because they love the back seats. And with a simple twitch of the nose my 4 passenger vehicle turns into a 2 passenger truck ... perfect for my wife's unplanned bargains or my little handyman jobs. And, being in the snow belt, we're looking forward to a winter without fear now that we're armed with AWD and ABS :-)
Wish I still had it!
hnewton, 03/07/2010
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
I put probably 32,000 miles on my Honda in two years. I never had any problems with it. It did make a weird noise when I turned really sharp, it was not a big deal. I bought the car with about 95,000 mile on it and it did that when I bought it. The dealership said it was because of the AWD. I drove a different one a year later and it did not do that. Besides oil changes, I only spent 350.00 on it the entire time I owned it. That was for breaks and its 100,000 mile maintenance. I thought it would need a new belt, but it has a timing chain that last 300,000 miles! We really used this car for what it can be used for. Camping, hauling, animals, etc. The seats are very durable! Seats four.
great car
atorreon, 04/01/2011
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV w/Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
great utility car! this thing can do it all without any worries. not the geatest looking car but can fill any need. the element is honestly the best snow handling car i've ever driven
Only for the Lonely/Adventurist Person
kingkorvo, 05/08/2012
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
37 of 43 people found this review helpful
When I purchased my Honda Element, I was enchanted with the uniqueness of the ride: it was a truck, SUV, and small car mixed altogether and it can get you where you want to go. It's a great ride for someone who doesn't have kids and likes the great versalitity of a crossover vechile. To Pros: 1) It's a Honda; its gonna retain value 2) Weather conditions/ off road- handles great 3) Plenty interior space; could live out of it 4) Crosscountry trips made easy The Cons: 1) It's only a 4 seater 2) Arm rest only for driver seat 3) A/C control of cabin is hard because of size 4) Anything on the floor rolls up to the front because of stadium seating 5) Gas mileage runs 19/22 One mancar!
Never loved a car before in my life!
sarahkate, 03/02/2012
2003 Honda Element DX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
Cars were always simply a way to get places for me, until I bought my Element! I have 154000 miles on it. I have done basic maintenance; brakes, struts and only just did my exhaust. I do have the original clutch, tho! It does not look 9 years old, either. I only have 1 complaint and that is that Honda has stopped making it!!! I was looking forward to a second Element when I need to replace this one. I am hoping that by that time Honda will have reissued it. I love my Element so much that I convinced both my sisters to get one!
NOTHING BUT GOOD THINGS!!!
Element Lover, 12/19/2002
2003 Honda Element DX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
I have been looking at the Elements for a few days now and I have liked every part of it so far. The only problem I can really argue over is that the outside is alittle ugly at first, but it grew on me in less than five minutes. The price is very reasonable and not needing a tuneup before 110,000miles is a plus.
Element Radiators
dandy4650, 05/12/2003
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Beware - there is no protection for the radiator! Mine's already been bashed by road hazards!
It's elementary, my dear Watson
deedee, 07/30/2008
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
This is the first car I have owned for more than 5 years. I think it's a keeper. I live in Mexico and it's the perfect vehicle for the terrain. And like all good Mexicans, you can get at least 6 adults in it - not comfortably - but none the least useful to the culture! Whenever I have it maintenanced here in Mexico, everyone at the dealership has to get inside and check it out and so do the customers - it's definitely a head turner. I had a front end accident and the Element barely had a dent while the other Nissan pickup looked like a Mack truck had hit it. Even in Mexico, Honda dealerships provide excellent service! I have a 4wd/EX Sunset Orange.
400 K miles
L, 07/03/2020
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
My 03 Element is my first brand new vehicle I've ever bought. I love everything about this vehicle. At 400k its still going strong with its original motor and transmission. I've waited for years for Honda come out with the Element again after they stop making them in 2011. I gave up waiting so I bought a used 2017 Ridgeline. I love my Honda's. Also still got my first Honda which is a Manuel 1990 Honda Accord. It's at 400k+ miles with its original motor and transmission. Keep them Maintained they go forever. From the Honda girl.
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Honda Element Love
Honda No. 5, 07/02/2010
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Have always loved Honda cars. The element is a great vehicle for me whether it's getting to work on a snowy day, hauling home landscaping supplies or baby furniture, it's got the space and it's so easy to clean up. Which I also appreciate when my son make a mess in the back seat.
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.
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.
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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Strong Element
Barton, 07/24/2006
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I cannot say enough good things about Honda in general. With that said, they Element is a beast of a truck/car/suv, too much storage, extremely roomy interior, especially for tall people. I'm 6'5" and have tons of headroom and legspace! Runs flawlessy!
Drives like a truck!
JPT, 12/24/2017
2003 Honda Element DX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Poor visibility and big blind spots but very reliable and dependable!
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Honda Element is a great "Shutterbug!"
William E. Flinchum, 05/20/2018
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV w/Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
This is the most functional vehicle I've ever owned! I'm an amateur photographer and it will easily accommodate all my gear and take me anyplace I need to go to get the shot as long as I don't need over 6.8 inches ground clearance and that's the only con. It handles great! I sure do wish they hadn't quit making these cars or whatever you call them, SUV would probably be the better term. Fantastic vehicle.
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I love my Element
Broncopam, 02/14/2009
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought "Ellie" brand new and haven't regretted it one day, in fact the closer I get to pay off the more excited I am to see how many miles and years I can keep her on the road, we're only at 116,000 so far. I see us well into 250,000+. It is the most all around usable vehicle I have ever owned. It is transportation, out of the weather hauling, car camping,and a quick nap at lunchtime. She handles the snow and ice, the mountains and loves being loaded with camping gear. I see no reason to ever have any other vehicle.
ELEMENTARY
vincesport, 02/03/2004
2003 Honda Element DX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My 2003 Honda Element is the "Y" package model. I get about 22 miles to the Canadian(Imperial)gallon in the city. I am also disappointed that there is only one intermittent speed selection for the windshied wiper. The windshield washer is weak and aims too low to be effective while driving at speeds in excess of 30 mph. The ride is a bit rocky. The driver's arm rest is located much too low and is rendered pretty useless. The internal heaters and blowers are excellently impressive, provide plenty of heat at a very relatively quick response after starting in sub-zero weather of -30degrees. The Air conditioning is also very good (in the summer).
Best car purchase I've ever made!
Jcazzle, 02/01/2010
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I got my element used in 2009 and it still drove off the lot like a new car. It's been noting less an absolute pleasure owning this vehicle. I moved and it would have been a nightmare if it weren't for my element. It carries more than I could imagine. It's so spacious and really handles the road well. It also handles mountains well! My element handled a mountain camping trip like it was it's job. I can't say enough about this car! I thought it was kind of ugly at first but after owning it for a few months, I love it so much it seems like the most beautiful looking car ever.
Wish they still made 'em
Nick in Vegas, 12/10/2020
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this Element new in October 2002.It has 93k miles on it. It runs and drives like new. MAINTENANCE: Had to replace the A/C condenser, front and rear shocks, radiator fan and that's about it. PROS: I love how it drives. I like the high seating, the 34' turning circle and the overall feel of the driving experience. The cabin is very spacious. It has massive head room and cargo space. The back seat has tons of leg room. I have utilized the flip-up rear seats to haul a water heater with the back hatch closed. CONS: Visibility is not the best. It has a massive "A" pillar that can obscure pedestrians in a crosswalk and it requires moving your head a lot to see around the vehicle when backing out. It is under-powered in the mountains or even very hilly terrain. The vinyl floor is very slippery when wet, especially when getting into the back seat. The front door must be opened in order to open the rear passenger door. This can be very inconvenient at times but if you have children, it could be a plus. FINAL THOUGHTS: Every Element owner that I have talked to has said that it has been a great vehicle for them, and if they could buy another one, they would. Me too!
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My Honda Rocks
Kayakin' Dan, 07/16/2003
2003 Honda Element DX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
It's very refreshing to finally find a well built vehicle with virtually no factory installed options. I chose this car primarily because of the ability to option it myself and the versatility factor. This car suits my lifestyle to a "T".
Beware the RUST!!!
bryansail, 05/17/2006
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought a super clean low mileage Element in Detroit in late 2005. The vehicle has only 14K miles and still well under the 3yr/36K Honda warranty. The car had surface rust on fixtures and bracket, esp in the engine area. Honda refuses to take resp. and fix this obvious design flaw. So don't buy a Honda anywhere where there is road salt because you may well be sorry! I've been slowly fixing the rust at my expense and time.
Do your research b4 buying it!
caveman, 11/10/2005
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought a used 2wd Ex with 31k on it. After 7 months I put in 17k. Here are my experiences with this car. WHAT'S HOT: Versatile (can carry large object like a truck when rear seats remove or flip up), great interior design, roomy, Honda reliability, high seats. WHAT'S NOT: Wind/road noise (way noiser than typical car), cheap plastic interior, too many rattles (trust me - it will be very annoying), hold your steering wheel tight in a windy way on a freeway, it's ugly, seats are uncomfortable because it's pretty flat, windshield prone to crack, rocking driver seat, tires wore quickly, over rated stereo (speakers are terrible), payload on 675 lbs, seats only for 4.
The BOX
CBray, 03/27/2018
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Gas mileage is not great on this car, everything else was super.
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Beware of Blind Spot
Fran, 08/11/2005
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 9 people found this review helpful
I loved my Element until I was driving in the LA Convention Center Parking Lot, and hit a post. I had never done anything like this before. After going through weeks of repair, and self recrimination, I thought that because I'm not tall, the blind spot was worse. Then my husband (tall) almost missed a pedestrian in turning left. Beware of the blind spot as you turn left. I am in the process of replacing this car.
safety defect
big defect, 02/26/2005
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 11 people found this review helpful
Be forwarned the element has a safty defect. The front windshield breaks due to a design fault in the front pillers. Honda needs to recall these and fix this problem. Several web sites are now dedicated to this. Just search element windshield cracks or failures. this car deserves a zero rating until this is corrected. Our element has had 2 failures in less than 6 months. This appears to now be the norm with this car. Edmunds should tell it like it is and not allow cars with defects to be listed on thier site unless the problem is fixed. Honda won't own up to it and it is now time to trade this defect in.
My experiences over five years
JoeB, 07/28/2009
2003 Honda Element DX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have a 2003 AWD Element, bought new in '03. In my rural real estate practice, I go absolutely everywhere, and in all kind of conditions. (The Pittsburgh end of Pennsylvania is very hilly!). I have taken it through farmer fields in knee-to-waist-high grass and weeds in showing land. I also have five years experience in all kinds of winter weather, often driving on ice and up to ten inches or so of snow. (The experiences I could tell you!). I usually use an aggressive tread all- weather tire in the winter, or sometimes a mud & snow. I don't particularly overload my Element with heavy "stuff" in the rear, although I do keep lots of real estate stuff back there (for fixing "for sale" signs).
230k
DJ from buffalo, 03/13/2020
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV w/Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought this thing with 200k on it and it's now at 230k no issues. Incredibly built vehicle. My dog also like it lol
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Honda Element
resumepro, 07/06/2006
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love it. As a middle aged boater /fisherman/family man(2 kids) it gives me everything I need. My 16 year old is chomping at the bit to get it when she graduates high school. At the price I paid, it is unbeatable for value.
'03 Element
JH, 05/25/2009
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Pretty much solid mechanically, although recently had a $900+ starter replacement. However, a squeaking suspension (even after new shocks), loose sun visors that won't stay tightened, a frozen passenger lock that Honda won't replace since it didn't begin to seize until over 60,000 miles (unlike the driver side, which was fixed for free), & map light lenses that keep falling out, are some 1st yr fit & finish issues with my 2003 Element.
Great Vehicle
Yodel boy, 11/26/2003
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The Honda Element is the most practical vehicle I have ever owned, plus it is a gas to drive. I have a band and all of the sound equipment fits in this vehicle. For person that is used to driving Chevy pick ups it sure is nice to get more than 13 miles to the gallon, I average 23 to 25 on the higway and this is 4 wheel drive. Great traction in the rain, and I will find out real soon about in the snow. :) Engine has enough power to get you through town and on the highway, if towing I would suggest a six cyl.
A "do-it-all" four seater.
pfeffer, 09/09/2003
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my first Honda. The reputation for build quality is evident from the start. If you can live with a four passenger vehicle, this is probably the best bang for the buck out there. Highly practical and easy to use, converting to a mini-truck in seconds. I like it and would get another in an instant.
Most fun car I have ever owned.
Erika L. Miller, 10/18/2003
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV w/Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We were picking up our New Honda Odyssey Van when I noticed the Element on the same showfloor it was all opened up and I fell in love with it right off. It is such a fun car, practical and comfortable, inside and out. We bought it in Ames, Iowa at the Honda of Ames Dealership were we have bought all of our cars for many years, we like the reliability of Honda cars and the great design features and love the person that sell's them to us. I think perhabst the Element was designed with young people in mind, and it works, I feel years younger when I drive it, and I'm a 63 year old grandmother.
Practicality Rules--DO NOT IMPROVE
MrH, 06/06/2009
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love the design, the economical materials, the cool looks, the quick handling, the adequate power, the acceptable fuel mileage, the adequate acceleration, and the big windows . This is one heck of a vehicle--there is nothing else like it. It is (relatively) cheap, the design is way cool, the practicality is unmatched by anything short of a pickup, and it will haul four passengers.
I feel good in my Element
RobSeb, 01/20/2003
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I just heard from co-workers about the versatility of the interior, I was sold before I saw the vehicle. I've been looking for a car that would combine the fun driving of my '93 Miata with the cargo space of my '90 Trooper,... I think I've found it, now I can sell the other two. I carry musical instruments on the weekend and a black lab, I love the way the rear doors open when I carry 2 guitars and a bag. The leg room in the back is much much larger than average, the 2 guitars fit on the floor in front of the rear seats. I love it.
Loved it except for windshield issue
Jan, 08/14/2009
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Super for hauling 2 mountain bikes without disassembling any bike parts - both fit fine standing up in the back with seats out or seats hanging up on the side. Loved being able to sleep in it on road trips with all seats left in/just reclined (just put mesh fabric over windows with magnets to hold fabric in place.) Super dependable in the rain and snow. Excellent turning radius. Doors became problematic when I had two toddlers and had to park next to other cars at the grocery store and get them in and out. I had to replace 4 or 5 windshields because rocks caused cracks (I think it must be a design flaw.) Honda did cover the first one when we could not find a rock pock at the crack start.
Honda Betrayal
Disappointed George, 09/20/2003
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 9 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Element in January 2003. Honda claimed that it would meet my most important criterion--safety. Safety was important because my 16 year old daughter would be driving it. No safety tests were available but I trusted Honda. That trust was misplaced. The Element did poorly in the side-impact tests. There is no excuse for any new SUV to not excel on side-impact tests. There is no excuse for a car company to tout the sefety of its pillarless design and then do poorly on the side-impact tests. There is no excuse for a father to purchase a car for his daughter before he knows for sure it is a safe car.
Love my green machine
Jet Carey, 03/24/2005
2003 Honda Element DX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This car is great. So far, 24,000 miles and only routine maintenance. Tires have held up great. We have horrendous winters here and the car handles great in the snow. As avid cyclists, we love to just throw our bikes and all our gear in the back. We got the side steps and they look great.
Takes the Fun out of Functional
green_ghost, 04/02/2009
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I love my E for all the features and practicality. It's easy to maintain, easy to clean, and easy to own all around. It runs great with 70,000 miles, and maintenance has been minimal. I really love the waterproof seats and rubber floors. I get sand, mud and water in the car all the time from all the outdoor sports that I do. It's super easy to clean the car and not worry about the mess. I also love the versatility of seating, and cargo space. It's so easy to throw anything I want in the car. The E is Uber functional, just not very fun to drive. It's not fast, not sporty, doesn't handle well at high speed or in corners, but it gets me where I need to go and is reasonably comfortable.
Better than a MiniVan
JKrajovan, 11/28/2003
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
My wife wanted a minivan because she kept hitting her head or the baby's head while getting into a Civic sedan. She saw how convenient the sliding doors are on them. I didn't want a minivan, so I showed her the Element. Perfect! It's easy to get in and out of with a baby. It's child proof! It's roomy! It looks great in black! It's also very stable and picks it nose up in the twisties, instead of diving its' nose. Great trucklet!
Love this car
goldschmid, 01/02/2007
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
There is no better car if you, like I, need to haul furniture or just more than you intended to buy at Costco. I have had the car for four years and almost 60,000 miles, and there have been no major repairs needed. As a result, this Element has cost far less to own and maintain than I ever expected. Although some people dislike the way the back doors open, it is a real advantage when you are trying to reach items or move bulky furniture in or out. On occasion, I have removed the back seats and used the element as a small van when moving our adult children to college or a new apartment. There is almost as much room as a small UHaul. In short, I am very satisfied with this car.
Worst car ever
Luis Lopez, 04/30/2018
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 16 people found this review helpful
I was so happy when I first bought my 03 element but after 2 weeks with the car, everything changed. From problems with the trothle, seats breaking apart, cluster malfunctions, brake issues, suspension problems. Engine failure. Seems this honda was a big mistake. Bought it with almost 100k, after investing more than 2k fixing problems, this car is the worst car i've had in 19 years driving. It keeps falling apart even using original parts. Never buying a Honda EVER AGAIN.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great New Honda
bobthebuilder, 01/07/2003
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This new SUV from honda is very fun and its a wonderful for driving any where