Used 2005 Honda Element Consumer Reviews
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Almost perfect.
Jon P, 11/18/2016
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
55 of 56 people found this review helpful
Purchased used 7 years ago, our 2005 Element has proven to be one of the best vehicle purchases I’ve ever made. Rivaling my 2003 Subaru Forester (the most consistent vehicle I’ve ever owned) in terms of drivability and reliability, and surpassing all other vehicle in terms of versatility. Pros: Amazing storage capacity and versatility. Outside of a cargo van, I can’t think of another vehicle that allows this much cargo space. I’ve spent night sleeping in it. I’ve moved beds, countless pieces of furniture, gardening supplies/equipment, etc… I’ve been completely, and utterly spoiled by the Element’s ability to transport things. It will be very hard to replicate when it comes time to buy another vehicle. Solid winter performance. The AWD system is reliable in getting through snow and ice. I have noticed it sometimes hiccups on wet roads, though that could be tire issues. Driving height is also a boon. You’re seated just a bit above sedan level and are afforded great view of the road, and the ‘widescreen’ windshield does a great job of exploiting all that visible space. Handling is responsive, and the turning radius is really good. You can tell this SUV was built off of a sedan chasis. The stock sound system is really superb. So-so: MPG is about what you’d expect. Nothing to write home about, but not exceptionally low. Doesn’t have a lot of get up and go. Not quite sluggish, but you’re not going to win any races with the Element. You’ve got to plan your traffic merges accordingly. Visibility is kinda subpar outside of the front seat. Lots of columns and little blind spots to be aware of. Only a 4 passenger vehicle. I knew that in advance, but an option for a 5th person would have been great. Cons: Brakes! Oh man, have we gone through brakes. About every 18,000 miles we’re investing in new pads. We’ve had to replace the rotors a few times as well. We’ve used the dealership as well as recommended mechanics. Doesn’t matter. The Element chews through brakes like no other car I’ve owned before. Suicide doors. Getting backseat passengers in and out, especially in parking lots and garages, is painful. I understand that they may assist with the loading/unloading of the vehicle, but for as often as you would actually need suicide doors to accomplish this it’s totally not worth it. Getting things in and out through the back isn’t much more difficult. All in all, I’d recommend an Element to anyone who wants a unique looking vehicle with an incredible amount of cargo space and utility.
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Best all around car I've owned. 24 mpg
Dave Mathews, 10/04/2016
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
26 of 26 people found this review helpful
After totaling my 2004 2WD (not my fault), I now have a 2005 AWD. I had my 04 for 6 years and it was still worth what I paid for it used! I was lucky to find a replacement because they are getting scarce and people are holding on to them. My new one is all-wheel-drive, which it turns out is awesome! AND, it gets consistently 24 mpg, which is better than my last one. Spacious, comfortable, utilitarian vehicle. When researching to buy my new one (11 yrs. old) I found many with over 200,000 miles and even a couple with over 300,000. I intend to drive this car for a very long time.
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I LOVE my Element!
Leslie, 07/21/2015
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
32 of 33 people found this review helpful
The Element is a great car all the way around. I have the EX AWD version, and it handles great in the snow. It has never left me stranded, period. My car has over 200k miles, and you can't even tell at all. The engine runs like a million bucks and doesn't leak or burn any oil at all. It gets really good gas mileage for an AWD SUV (I average 20 city, 25 highway). I think it is a very sharp-looking SUV. I will say that it does seem to be prone to dings. This is a great SUV for you if you have animals that are going to be riding in your car, since it doesn't have any carpet. I love that feature! The seats are also water and stain resistant. I think the seats are comfortable despite this feature. I have taken my Element on road trips and it has been very comfortable. This is a great SUV and I definitely recommend it.
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In my element with the Element
ray, 11/25/2006
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
18 of 18 people found this review helpful
Recently retired and traded in a small pickup for an Element. Great vehicle! The plastic cladding on the exterior has protected me from a lot of rock hits. I have had it in a snow storm at Tahoe, camping at the coastal redwoods, hauling dogs and/or people and road tripping so this is a very adaptable auto. Added a trailer hitch for external bikes and a roof rack for a kayak. I will be keeping this Honda until Honda comes out with a diesel or hybrid 4 cylinder.
Good car for the value
laura_e_som, 08/02/2012
2005 Honda Element LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
17 of 18 people found this review helpful
My husband and I purchased this car new and it has been a blessed experience thus far. It handles well, cleans up well and is holding it's value well. With 96,000 miles on it, we are grateful to God, that it has had no real problems, it has needed one set of breaks and a set of tires, with another one due here pretty soon. My husband drives this car almost everyday back and forth to work and it has been very reliable. AWD does seem to help it to handle well enough in the snow, and it's car we plan on keeping until it finally says no more.
Not For Everyone, But Perfect for Me
Reid, 07/23/2006
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
This vehicle isn't a perfect fit for everyone, but you should consider it if you need lots of cargo room in a small package, you need a car that's easy to clean, you aren't a speed demon (acceleration is only fair and RPMs run pretty high even at 65 mph), you have to deal with snowy roads on a regular basis, you want a vehicle with a plethora of interior storage compartments, and you're poor (or cheap) enough that you'd rather sleep in your car than in a hotel room.
quirky looks, versatile vehicle
Maria, 08/23/2006
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Very fun to drive. Still a head turner. More interior room than my Nissan minivan, but shorter and easier to park. No mechanical problems to date. My 1st Honda, very impressed. Very solid, super leg and head room, only seats 4 though. I can haul just about anything and the interior floor matting is wonderful - I never want carpet again. Great for dog, crates and plants. No problem with the tall stance, the wind does not buffet it on the highway. The 5 speed manual transmission is a joy. Great sound, like the power outlets. Love the location of the shifter. Fun, fun, fun!!!
I call my 2005 red Element "Flame"
Adrian in Dallas, 07/22/2010
2005 Honda Element LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
The only color I wanted when I saw it in the Honda Element palette selection was what they call "Rallye Red." It's a beautiful, clear, bright red that's a knockout. The drab orange and the even more drab olive color that you see all over are not for me. (This review is sounding like a "Click & Clack" radio show where the first question they ask those with car problems is "What color is it?") IN ANY EVENT: This car is the best thing I've ever owned. I was born in Detroit and just turned 65, so that's saying something! It's solid as the brick it looks like, actually FUN to drive, has great head room and is E-Z to get in to and out of. I ordered it with every bell & whistle Honda offered.
Rocks!!!!!
DownUnder, 04/26/2009
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I have had this vehicle for 5 years and it has been the best vehicle I have ever owned. 125,000+ miles and the only think I ever have to do is oil changes, tire rotation, and 1 set of new tires and brakes. VERY, VERY reliable and goes great in snow.
I love my Element!
Sami, 04/14/2010
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchased an Element after seeing how the rear seats function. The best part for us was the fact they could be removed. I purchased this vehicle entirely for my dogs, because we're constantly on the road with them for dog-related activities. The person who reviewed the Element poorly, who also purchased it for their dogs, obviously didn't tie anything down. I put a big dog bed right behind the front seats, can stow up to 6 folding kennels against one side of the vehicle (there are tons of places to use bungee straps in this SUV!), an ice chest, folding chairs, luggage, etc. More than enough room for 2 adults and 3 big dogs. You just have to use your head when it comes to maximizing space!
Pros and Cons
hondaelementex, 09/11/2012
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
Nice car, great for a tall person and carrying groceries and other stuff including smaller bicycles. MPG is about 20.
Most versatile car I've owned
Mark, 06/22/2019
updated 06/27/2022
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought my 2005 Element in 2007 with 11k mi. As of 6/2022 I have 200k miles on it and hope to drive it to 300K, or find another Element because I love it so much! Potential negatives first: not as quiet, soft-riding or luxurious as other passenger-oriented/"people-mover" SUV's like the Honda CRV. Has a noticeable amount of wind noise compared to more car-oriented SUV's. The boxy shape doesn't lend itself to good mpg; usually 20-22mpg for me with a 26mi commute on & off highway. If you frequently travel with 3-4 people you may dislike the reverse-hinge style rear doors for letting rear passengers in and out, especially in tight spaces. Positives: perhaps one of the most versatile and reliable cars ever made. For powertrain, the 2.4l engine uses a long-lasting metal timing chain vs a rubber timing belt, which if not replaced at regular intervals can cause costly and catastrophic engine damage, and definitely something to research if buying a used car with 90k miles or more. In it's life I've only had to replace the CV joints at 131k, and the starter at 165k. Everything else has been normal oil, filter, tire and brake maintenance. I find this to be the ultimate utilitarian vehicle for anyone who loves to camp, haul oversized items or carry pets in an easy-maintenance interior. It's short enough to parallel-park in any tight spot in the city, big enough to squeeze a motorcycle inside(!). no joke, I've bought and individually transported home 3 different motorcycles in this thing. The longest being an old BMW R100 road bike, and the tallest being a Suzuki DR650 dual-sport dirt bike lowered down with ratchet-straps. For cyclists you can fit two bikes upright with both wheels installed and still have room for 1 rear passenger if needed, or cram 6 bikes in there with both seats removed and still have all of your valuables protected from weather and prying eyes. The space can also hold any array of furniture. The interior layout is great for endless passenger and cargo opportunities. For passengers, the car has great head and leg-room for 6"+ passengers front & rear. The 2 rear seats can be folded up flat against the interior walls, or individually taken out if there's need to carry 3 people and oversized cargo. With both seats out I have camped inside the car, with just enough room for a 6' & 5'6" couple and a 75lb dog to lay down on the rear floor on a camping trip. You can also lay both the front and rear seats down flat to have an oddly comfortable bed. The rear has both a hatch and a tailgate, so you can have just the hatch open to haul long items like lumber if needed. Also has a great-sounding stereo. If you want a car that is easy-driving, stone reliable, but also handle any kind of road-trip or cargo needs it's hard to think of another alternative. All that versatility gives you a ride quality that is half Honda Accord and half delivery van, but I've found it to be irreplaceable.
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A Toaster That Won't Die
Mike, 06/24/2019
2005 Honda Element LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
We bought our 2005 Honda Element AWD in 2009 from CarMax. Wife didn't like the looks of it at first, but as soon as she sat in the driver's seat - before even driving it - she said "It's coming home with us today." We bought it with about 70k miles on the odometer. As of today it has over 215k miles. It's my wife's daily commuter. In fact, we are currently looking for another one so she can have a newer one and keep this one as our spare car. We use it for every trip we take, all the grocery shopping, and I've even hunted with it on a few occasions (in clay/mud farm fields in NC). We live in WV, so we see our fair share of ice and snow, and twisty roads are just a way of life here. It's roomy - there are tons of little storage pockets, removable, flippable, side-clippable rear seats that also recline fully. It's hauled hay, a refrigerator, a couch, all our son's belongings to college and 2 apartment moves and this thing has been ultra reliable through it all. All we've put into it are gas/oil changes/routine maintenance, 3 sets of tires, 1 set of brakes (just this year), one starter (also this year) and some alternator switch or solenoid that went bad (it was less than $90 installed). It's still on the original spark plugs and fires right up! The only downside to it is the driver's seat is starting to come apart at the seams. That's it. Even the gas mileage is fair (19 city, 22 overall, 24 highway) given it's shape, weight, and our road conditions. If you can find one that hasn't rusted out (I hear that's an issue, but not a speck on ours ANYWHERE), buy it. You'll find yourself falling in love with it.
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The Element is just OK
rubio1010, 06/16/2009
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
13 of 16 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for my dogs. I bought it for all of my activities. It's just OK. Driving is fine, not fun, just fine. Take every turn slowly as stuff slides back and forth over the entire plastic interior easily. This is not a "Dog Car." The rocking back and forth and sliding makes them car sick. Cleaning is not nearly as easy as it sounds. "Hosing it out" is not an option. Comfort? On short drives, less than 100 miles, it's ok. Anything longer and the plastic seats get stiff and sticky. I've had two windshields replaced from highway pebbles. That's annoying. The two reverse doors are awkward for passengers in the rear, and getting in and out of the back seats is very awkward.
I love my box!
Jeff, 08/18/2006
2005 Honda Element LX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Although some of my friends think its ugly, I think it is awesome. The design is love it or hate it, but the utility of this vehicle has no comparison. We take it surfing, to Home Depot, to the clubs, to the grocery store, and even on some road trips.
I love my Element
hppywife, 08/15/2008
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
My husband bought me my Element for our anniversary. I love it. I drove a Cavalier and I am more then happy with the trade. My kids have so much room and it is a fun family vehicle. It doesn't have the get up and go like I am use to but it has a lot more room and a lot more reliable. My kids love their sun roof. I just love this ride.
Overpriced
Joseph Noriega, 06/22/2005
2005 Honda Element LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
My car was overpriced for what it is!It rides comfortable for the two front passangers but for those who ride in the back, it rides rough. Pick up speed is slow.The outside look of the car draws attention. I put my car through many tests and here are the results per each senario.For moving and shopping with my truck was nice,the car was useful with the spacious back space. When used for long distance rides the car rated fair for me. My passangers was missing comfort especially now that we have a new baby in the family my car is not baby friendly. Overall my car rates fair but its definitely not a car for everyone. Take a test drive before you decide on this model, I know I should of.
Disappointed But Satisfied
JOSEPHPLAVIAK, 02/17/2005
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
The Element has fallen short in a few areas. The "AWD" is far from AWD. When I bought the Element, it was called REALTIME 4 WHEEL DRIVE. In essence FWD assisted by the rear wheels when the computer senses slippage. Granted, I have never been stuck. My next disappointment is the "A" post. The "A" posts cause serious blind spots when making 90 degree turns. Next, I go on to the tires. The 215/70/R16 is a unique tire size, which makes it expensive and hard to find in anything other than an all season radial. Lastly, the front end construction. DONT get in a fender bender, it'll be expensive. There is literally no bumper to stop the radiator from being damaged in a minor collision.
Mediocre vehicle
Joe, 02/22/2017
updated 08/23/2018
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 10 people found this review helpful
Owned over 8 years. Mechanically very reliable. Poor mileage hwy miles: 19+ The “maximum” cargo, occupancy and fuel weight is a maximum of 675 pounds. That means 3 skinny adults and small amount of luggage and you're already at or above maximum safe driving weight limit. Bought used, new Was over priced at $22,000+ Would of been perfect with a small V6
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Love it, but it fails for reliability
JZZDNCR, 07/07/2009
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
I have a 2005 well maintained and cared for Honda Element. It's my favorite all time car...that is until now. It's a manual transmission just over 50,000 mi and it's popping out of gears. I'm being told that I need a new transmission! Can this be? I bought this car new because after being a long time Volkswagon owner I decided I wanted a RELIABLE car. It's out of warranty, I'm out of work, and a new transmission will put me under. Reliability=Bad
You can pull a boat with one of these.
Carl Redding, 07/13/2015
updated 01/17/2018
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
Have owned since new, 10 years. Last year I put a trailer hitch on and started pulling my 17' fiberglass fishing skiff with it. Boat, motor and trailer weigh 1600 lbs and it tows and stops well. Easy to launch and retrieve boat. Update: Had to replace a/C compressor. What a pain to remove and replace. Poor engineering on Honda's part. Had drivers side airbag replaced two years ago for a recall. I asked "why not replace the passenger side too? You know it was manufactured the same way using the same propellant?". Honda said no. Now I get a recall notice in the main saying " Passenger side is defective " Duh! Plus no parts in stock to repair! Don't put passengers in the passenger seat they say! Honda cheaped out on this. If they get sued, it is their own fault. I doubt I will purchase a Honda again. They are not the company they used to be.
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Love me some Element
gamoore, 05/29/2007
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
One of the least expensive 4WD vehicles on the market. It has more rear seat passenger room than my Suburban. You can even recline in the backseats. Just fold the backseats up and you have tons of room. It's fun and comfortable to drive, great in snow, and it's a Honda. The resale values I've seen are really good. I own a Ford Explorer, and GMC Suburban also, but I prefer to drive the element. The next vehicle I purchase will be another Honda Element. For the money and qualty get the Element.
Love my E
Zach, 04/19/2010
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought my Element from an old man with 17,000 on the odometer. Love the styling, the interior, everything about it. My only complaints are the performance ( no worries, e fans, you can find superchargers just for the element. How does 230 hp sound?) and the blind spots. If you're a careful driver, the blind spots won't be a problem.
Element!
cherubrocky, 08/10/2006
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
So I've had my element a year now, and have been pleasently pleased with this vehicle. I've put nearly 30k miles on it in one year driving cross country. I am completely content with it! Easy to clean, works well taking it up to hood to snowboard!
What was I thinking?
Debbie, 07/29/2005
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
With its one-of-a-kind look, I thought I wanted this vehicle. I have had this car for about 5 months now and this is really not the car for me. I find it to be very impractical. Have had to litterally back out of my parking spot to open the back doors to load groceries and children. Steering wheel blocks the view of the speedometer and I have found it does not handle well around corners. Putting the back seats up blocks visibility. Although,cargo room is great. I Have driven across the state several times with a load full of baseball gear and luggage and could still see out of all the windows. Also nice to drag your big dog around in. Good car for active singles, not families.
my element
Jodie Welk, 06/18/2005
2005 Honda Element LX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I LOVE this little SUV. My last car was a BMW325is purchased new also, so I like fast zippy good cars. The element didn't let me down...not as fast...but equally fun to drive. I wish they had a little better beefier interior seating or leather seating, but I was in the in the furniture industry, so I am overly picky about that area. The fabric and materials used on the seating are excellent for repelling most stains or liquids. The stereo is WONDERFUL and the ipod connection is PLUS! The XM radio is a nice feature too. Because there is no carpet, a only rubber matting feature which I love, I think that the element is probably a little noisier than usual on the highway. So turn up the tunes!
Worth every penny!
jason, 02/02/2006
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
After doing a lot of research, reading review after review, I decided to purchase my EX AWD. The Element is everything I expected and more! Road noise isnt bad as people make it out to be, and it has plenty of power to get up and go! Handling is exellent for everyday driving. I have owned it for a week now and I have zero complaints. The Element is very spacious, my 6'4 friend fit very confortable in the back seat. The stereo is way above average and sounds crystal clear. Try finding a 2005 EX AWD leftover at a dealership,you might get a great deal like I did, paying $19,000 with only 32 miles on it... yes just 32.
Best Vehicle We've Had
hillbilly, 03/15/2009
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We live at the end of a dead end road and our Element spends a LOT of time off road and on bad roads. Downsides are that the seats are a bit uncomfortable on long trips, the visibility is sometimes difficult with the side pillar, the gas mileage could be better. Also, the moon roof is way too difficult to replace after removing. Wish the rack spacing on the roof was longer. The wipe down seats and interior are wonderful for a canoe paddler that also hauls his dogs around. Have had it for going on 4 years and no problems except for drivers seat problems. Our Element has never been stuck except after a 6" ice storm. Routinely cross creeks et al on the farm and it rarely kicks into 4WD.
Lovin' my Element
gary , 11/17/2005
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is the most practical vehicle I've ever owned. It's a hoot to drive and it's as rugged as it is dependable. Sometimes aerodynamics are overated. This little "box" gets 25+ MPG and keeps up with most vehicles on the Interstate. However, it could use a couple more inches of ground clearance.
Great car
David, 09/10/2016
2005 Honda Element LX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought it new in 2005 just totaled in front end 100900 miles. I would probably be dead with many other cars and I have really enjoyed this car
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Perfect for what it is designed to do
Larry, 12/13/2005
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The vehicle is just about perfectly suited for our needs (2 adults, 2 teenagers, one large dog); both long and short drives. It cruises easily at 80/90. The vehicle corners well and is surprisingly quick. Some other reviewers wanted a larger engine none is needed if you get the manual transmission and rev the engine a little while shifting Honda has low rev shift points the auto transmission. The EX comes with a better suspension than the model below it. I have had several vans, various sedans, and several sports cars, so I have a reasonable idea of different vehicles no one wants to use our much more expensive conversion van anymore, other than for camping trips.
It's a Gimmick
Bryan, 02/08/2005
2005 Honda Element LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
For an SUV the Element is incredibly under powered and the AWD is no help at all with out ABS,which is not available on the LX model. The suicide doors are just a hassle especially if you are in a car pool. The person in the front seat needs to take off his/her seat belt and open the door just to let someone in the back.
15 mpg! Be warned
crackrock, 11/19/2010
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 10 people found this review helpful
My v6 Suzuki grand vitara true 4x4 is getting 17.5 and my 4wd element is getting 14.5. Measured both with a kiwi-mpg obd2 tool, so it's accurate. The element really awful to me. Gotta get this off my chest. Low clearance - I already came within a 1/2" of basically ruining my car, the drive shaft guard got all bent up, luckily barely missing the actual drive shaft, this was driving to the grocery store in about 8 inches of snow/ice not true 4x4 - combined with the lack of clearance the 'real time 4wd' is a joke compared to true 4h/4l, the element has to stay up on the road, whereas the gv makes it the whole scary way down to the beach and tears through the sand, downhill in snow? Ha ha
An offroad interlude
rob, 11/29/2007
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought my E as a conscession to my then partner. I was pleasantly surprised at what it could do off the beaten path. I am also disappointed in what it lacks in power, towing ability and traction ""out of the box"".
not built to last
a de la ossa, 03/26/2008
2005 Honda Element LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
After only 15,000 miles the authorized Honda service dealer has had me replace the battery and tires-- 15,000 miles. In addition, the exterior body is extremely prone to dings, as the metal is very thin. Dent Doctor franchisees love this car. This car has soured me on Honda.
Honda Element
William Rohrey, 07/19/2005
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 8 people found this review helpful
So far it has been very good ,as much or more than I expected. I like this for its room & easy 0y entry from both sides & rear. The bad part is having to open the front doors to be able to open the other doors.I think Honda builds a good product in all their cars. Bill
Element
John, 02/12/2005
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very good suv, fun to drive and has the honda reliablity. Very good interior space and easy to drive. I am very happy with my purchase, sold a ford expedition and like the honda better.
Great Car - Few Problems
Leah, 09/30/2005
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Love the car, but miss a front seat sun roof. Only other problem is the lack of protecton for the radiator. Had to go out and purchase Gutter Guard to attach in front to protect radiator from rocks and such. Also, daytime running lights should have been standard. If gas mileage were as advertised, I would recommend the Element to everyone; however, the mileage sticker borders on fraudulent.
Perfect for DINKS
foredaughs, 09/08/2005
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car, albeit a design for the under 28 crowd, is also perfect for 40+ year old DINKS (dbl income, no kids.) It is one of the most comfortable cars you can drive; we drive it long distance, 1100 miles non stop on a bimonthly basis. With the 3 dogs in the back! They are Eskies. And there is still enough room for the non-driver to catch some easy zzzz's. Vehicle is fun and ultimately practical. We plan to buy another when we hit 160,000 miles.
Want Another
Mike, 04/01/2010
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I will buy another element this year. The thing that I like most is the headroom and the ease of regress and egress. I have a fused neck so I cannot bend it and with the Element I don't have to bend my neck to get in or out. The car is a little noisy from the lack of carpet but you get used to it. Many nooks and crannies that coins get wedged in but not that much of a problem. All around a great car. Replaced a passenger window motor, a battery and was serviced regularly. Still have it 50k miles.
MPG Misrepresented
ronimac, 09/04/2005
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am very disappointed in the gas mileage. I drive an equal mix of city/ highway miles and I average approx 200 miles per tankful. I fell that Honda has misrepresented the stated MPG listed on the vehicle. I have over 25 years of driving experience and I know that the poor gas mileage is not due to my driving habits. According to Consumer Report Oct. 05, one writer stated that he gets 14 MPG with his Element. I've driven Hondas since '92 and have seen the quality decline. I regret not purchasing a Rav4.
Love my Element
Pat Dunham, 08/02/2005
2005 Honda Element LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Driving the Element is the most fun I have ever had driving a vehicle. The gas mileage is great; about 22mpg city and 26mpg highway. The sound system is great and caring for the interior is a breeze! Love my Element!!
E is Excellent Everyday SUV
RAMZOHIO, 12/10/2005
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
After 6000 miles in 5 months. I love it, but it is not sporty enough or fun to drive with the automatic transmission. The Element is an excellent work vehicle if you need cargo room and ease of use and loading/unloading for delivery. The Element is great if you have small children, or dogs, or get messy, because it is easy to clean...I recommend it, but not for everyone. I carried a 7-foot sofa without removing the rear seats, just folded them up. WOW! Hey, it is a HONDA!!!!
Details are not as good as other Honda
Daniel, 09/06/2005
2005 Honda Element LX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Found the car to be fun to drive but the ride is choppy. The finish is not as good as other Honda models, i.e. rough plastic edge under the steering wheel bothers my fingers, The plastic panels are also seem to be made of weak / thin materials.
I love my "Ugly Truckling"
Gary, 05/05/2005
2005 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Though utilitarian in concept, it offers all the comfort imaginable. The interior is huge and easily maintained. It's extremely economical. And it holds it own on the freeway. Only deficit is the low clearance. It's been years since I had so much FUN with a vehicle.
BEST CAR EVER
DESERT TRAVLER, 03/19/2005
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am a baby boomer with on the go lifestyle; this car does it all, comfort very functional ez-driver great inside space. Good light use for off road. Gets the looks from others, makes a statement--last month used it like a truck hauling stone tools bricks sand. Ran like a champ even with load. Have also camped in it. Works well for a night or 2 enough room for all the gear and you can sleep in (but cramped) I have had cars that were twice the costs and they weren't as good when comparing overall use. This car is a winner, and probably a classic in it's own right, no disappointment here--
Drive one first
bille, 02/28/2006
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I enjoy this trucklet. I had to replace the driver armrest with a larger one offered by Honda. I am a big guy and love the room. The big point for me was that I was able to get a manual tranmission. The AWD is the best. Room behind the back seats for the dog. Love XM radio. And super easy to clean and keep clean. I put a new chrome grill on it and that helped the ugly of the snout. All this and a place to sit when we tail gate. " a real tail gate" Check out this special SUV.
Salesman's Dream
beerman19841, 11/09/2005
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
As a sales rep for a map company, I use my Element to haul my product to service my route. I love the amount of cargo space and headroom (I'm 6'5") and it is just plain fun to drive. I have plenty of power and the gas mileage (22- 25 mpg) is a major plus.
In My Element
Daisy, 11/07/2005
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Element is so much fun to drive that for the first time ever I don't care if I'm driving the ugliest car on the road. I rather enjoy the looks! Also, the car feels solid. When you close the rear doors, it sounds like a heavy, well-made vehicle, not a hunk of metal just put together cheaply. I'm looking forward to the AWD in the snow this winter.
Gen Y Extremo
Biker Box, 05/14/2005
2005 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car proves that Honda knows what to do. Nothing the US produces can even match this car. I am a mountain biker so I am often dirty or wet. This thing gets me where I want to be and back. I have shown so many people the inside that it is becoming boring, but they love it. Most everyone had mocked me before. It is affectionately known as "the box."