Nice write up! Have you hit your head yet on the comically-low tailgate? If yes, you can upgrade the hydraulic struts to slightly longer ones and get about 2-3” more height. $25 and <5mins install time.
Maxpow 4325 SG201014 Compatible With Volkswagen Beetle 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 to 2010 Without Spoiler Trunk Lift Supports Struts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UYM8ZDS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Utd9Db79G41E7
"Legal Disclaimer
sold for off road or exhibition use only"
Yeah, don't use these unless you want to get a ticket or blind someone.
I bought this one for mine, it drapes over the hatch easily and you can tuck it in behind the tailgate.
https://www.amazon.com/Coghlans-Single-Rectangular-Mosquito-White/dp/B000KKB2OS?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_1
I use a couple of these nets and magnets. You might want to grab a portable fan also
Coghlan's Mosquito Netting https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B000KBLD0K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_TW28H47F2Z6PBA7VE1P1
When I got my ‘03 E used off of Craigslist, the drivers side door didn’t lock. I bought this door lock and found a YouTube video and replaced the lock myself. It was pretty easy! I just have two keys now, one for the drivers door and one for everything else.
I reset the code and it came back pretty quickly. I also noticed poorer than usual gas mileage (mid teens). For about $50 total you can order a 1 1/16 combo wrench and the knock sensor both from Amazon and DIY in an hour or two. Jack up the front end and go in from underneath. It's a tight spot, but if you can get your hand up in there you'll be fine. It's been 6-7 months since I replaced it and haven't had any issues.
To get into some more detail, this specifically is the Pioneer MVH-1400NEX. Got it from Crutchfield, so it came with the aftermarket Element plastic bezel/harness. I don’t mind that it’s a little recessed. The install itself was relatively straightforward, but the real pain was the backup cam (and that blasted green and black reverse sensor wire). I flush-mounted an AUX/USB duo from Amazon into the drivers side subwoofer housing, lending more towards the unobtrusive install. The head unit itself doesn’t have an internet connection, but connects immediately via Bluetooth for iPod/Pandora/Spotify, or you can plug in your phone for Android or Apple CarPlay. It also has the option of a SiriusXM input (free on Crutchfield with a rebate). It’s a very intuitive system and easy to use, so I am very happy so far with its performance. Steering wheel controls are intact with the use of a Maestro adapter. Sound quality is great and it ads a touch of tech to my favorite toaster 💙
AUX/USB Flush Mount: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072KGMJ5N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CS6cFbGEMY8XS
Long post 3mm and 5mm LEDs.... The kind with stuff wires.
This is the 5mm... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079Q4NMXY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_D6O3FbVSZ9A4Q?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I just realized they don't light up the turn dial indicator very well so I may keep looking around. For the 5mm I also had to cut the post they connect to down to the double holes to make them fit
Genuine Honda 08P33-SCV-100 Seat Cover https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001EEC45A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_M70T7C0H3GSQZBSXGZT0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Bought 2 so they match. Have had them for 2 years being daily driven and they still look new.
This has held up really well for me… Leather Repair Patch Kits for Car Seats Couches and Elbow 2 Pieces Self-Adhesive Patch for Leather, 8× 11inch Leather Sofa Repair Kits(Gray) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T7GJ75Z/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_PM4R2G3NT2C3XS110YS4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is what I used and have no problems with my sub. Metra 70-7863 Amplifier Retention Wire Harness for 2003-2011 Honda Element, 707863 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004YTNRRQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_VQKQGF8HM7SJX7B57Q33?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 also bought an Atoto A6 pro head unit.
Another option is to outfit your Element with side steps/ running boards like these
​
Makes it a little more difficult to get under, obviously not a perfect solution but ease of access is one of the primary reasons you see so many of these stolen from elements
Nice, manual transmission too!
If you're going to be in and out of the back a lot, I'd recommend getting some new struts for the liftgate to get it a couple inches higher so you don't have to worry about smashing your head.
This is what I bought but I'd double-check with your strut design to make sure they'll fit. They fit on my 2008 but I don't know if the strut design changed over the years or not.
I got the Pumpkin Android 9.0 unit - $269 on Amazon. No issues. Paired it with a rearview camera from the same company and installed it myself. Works great with my Samsung Galaxy S9, too. I also put an OBD hotspot in so I didn't have to hotspot my phone. Kids love watching YouTube or Netflix or NickJr. I need to get some rear screens for them as the unit has video out.
I have some crocs brand loafer-type shoes that don’t look like crocs, but are very comfortable and practical. Does that count?
They aren’t don’t sell them anymore (more element parallels!), but they are like this except tan/brown:
I used some elastic cord that I got at a fabric shop, something kinda like this (I got some that was a little thinner than stock, just so it's easier to stretch and put things into)
You can also pick up some cord locks so that you can adjust the tension on the cord. As long as you use these I think paracord would work ok because you could just cinch it down onto whatever you're carrying
I laced mine up from the top to the bottom and then put both ends through a cord lock at the bottom
They Auto Ventshade brand on Amazon.
Deflector: Auto Ventshade 24747 Bugflector II Dark Smoke Hood Shield for 2003-2008 Honda Element https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006HLH04/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_XWSpFedpkA42O
Rain Guards: Auto Ventshade 94725 Original Ventvisor Side Window Deflector Dark Smoke, 4-Piece Set for 2003-2011 Honda Element https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006HLRQS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_ZS8dnDdNJI2vi
Sorry to hear this, I just went through this myself. It's incredibly frustrating. I was lucky to have comprehensive coverage on mine, so insurance replaced the stolen cat. The repair shop said they'd seen 4 Elements with stolen cats in my area in the last month or two, so I'm keeping the coverage in place.
Anything you can do to make it harder to get under there is a good idea. Or to make it take more louder and more time consuming to cut it out. In addition to potential bolt cage or cat protector, maybe consider what I did. I mounted a motion sensing motorcycle alarm underneath the car. It can be armed/disarmed via a fob and sensitivity can be set very high.
My hope is that if someone crawls under there to cut it, they won't be able to stand the 113 decibels in their ears for long enough to cut it. Or it will notify my neighbors and scare them off. The more difficult you can make it for them to remove it while mounted, the longer it'll be making noise.
Please don't straight pipe it, we gotta breathe this air, man.
I just did this mod and your video was super helpful. But I actually used these lifts from amazon which are from the same manufacturer as the OEM lifts and are like a way better upgrade than the originals. Thanks again.
The light kit I bought. I wanted to see which colors worked and which didn’t, since the E has a weird color filter built in to the dash panel. I found that red and pink don’t show through as well (they are probably best suited for someone who does a lot of night driving) but that blue and white show through well, and light blue and green really pop out. Looks super good. // Decided against green only because my other car is a Ford Ranger, and i’ve seen enough green dash for a lifetime.
About $200 on amazon
KYB Japan brand, similar quality, less than $100
It was definitely a rad time, and the water is a bit lower than normal so if your planing to tube it’s perfect right now. This is what I picked up on amazon Explorer 2 SUV tent . Looks like this one is out of stock right now but there is another THATS like $140 and fits an element also.
The thing sets up in minutes!
Couple tips:
-If you’re going to remove both back seats to sleep, a full size blow up mattress works perfectly (my wife and I slept great)
-get a battery powered fan, one that can flip to the ceiling handles, makes a HUGE difference overnight
303 Aircraft (plastic) protectant doesn't leave rain spots or streaks in light rain. fantastic stuff even though it is water based and certainly won't last as long as others... I especially like it as a "matte" tire shine. Terrific alternative to Armor All (oily/waxy mess) as overspray cleans up with dry towels or even a damp rag.
UGREEN Aux to Bluetooth 5.0... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081GGB53R?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share this one is great, just need to plug into a cig lighter adapter and it turns on with the car and connects automatically. Sound it great with it also
It was the vtec solenoid. I just replaced the whole thing. If you used non oem, i hear those have problems and really you should just get the oem one. i used this link, cheapest and fastest i could find
If your CV joint boot is torn, replace the whole CV axle assembly. There is one CV axle assembly (two CV joints) for each wheel and it is specific to each wheel. Whether you have anti-lock brakes matters because the tone ring for the ABS may be on the CV joint; however, I think it was on the wheel bearing on mine. Unless you have a parts washer, they are cheap enough now that it is cheaper than having a mechanic clean all the dirt out of the old CV joint and re-lubricating. Plus they have had years of wear plus accelerated wear due to dirt.
Rock Auto sells the CV axles as does amazon.
I replaced both rear CV axles with this set: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B08L3DTVMF
I have the yakima loadwarrior rack with streamline bars that has the 30 inch bar, the 2 smaller lights are mounted to the bull bar. Lots of zip ties and squeezing wires between trim. Pretty easy to setup.
Nilight - ZH002 20Inch 126W Spot... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XPHPMQ4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Here's the link Thanks OP for posting this. I too, have been putting off this repair. you have motivated me. haha
I installed a Sony XA V-AX5000 and initially used the Metra Kit as that was the one recommended by Crutchfield. I ended up replacing it, because it set the front surface of the display too far back. In case the Metra kit doesn't work well for you too, I replaced it with this kit, Xscorpion HON-K8610DD (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ITN4JS4).
looks great! if you want a suggestion for an easy spray on ceramic wax, i use this one from Griots. it'll hold onto that freshly detailed luster you have.
Easy to tell, if you look below your shifter and see a little storage cubby, you don't have one. If you see a speaker grill, you have one.
If you don't have one, a kit like this should do it: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B23V9183/
Then you can sit down, crimp all of the connections together with the Atoto wiring harness and then swapping it in is much easier!
May I suggest a wireless CarPlay instead? This will allows you to keep the built-in unit with amazing sound unit with CarPlay and Android auto. Installation will take you less than 5 minutes.
they make them for the element, on amazon they work fairly well.
Just something cheap that I got from amazon. They are fickle about which “way” the bulbs are installed I think. Had to test & flip a few times to get them all working correctly.
Nanpoku T5 LED Bulbs 74 73 37... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08BF59BQV?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
These are the ones I used, the warm white versions, I imagine all the bulbs of this style are basically the same. I actually wish they were a little less bright, but they still work just fine. The dimmer still works as normal it just doesn't get quite as fun as it does with incandescents. Keep in mind that LED bulbs are polarized, so make sure turn on the lights and check to see which ones need to be rotated before you reinstall the cluster and dash pieces
Congrats on the upgrade, I added a kicker that dropped in PERFECTLY, it’s dual voice coil and works seamlessly with the cars built in amp. Kicker 43CWRT672 CompRT 6.75 Inch... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BLVEZUC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Spare door locks :-)
Window vent shades. Aparently one size does not fit all elements, which is how I scored a free set. Handy. Make a good stocking stuffer. Stick on, not much of a project.
There was a most useful Honda element accessories thread a while back. https://www.reddit.com/r/HondaElement/comments/weim6f/the_best_aftermarket_accessory_youve_purchased/ But fig lights sound good if fog is an issue. Scroll through the pictures on this one until you come to the one which says "complete kit" and notice what is included. https://smile.amazon.com/CPW-Element-Driving-Lights-Switch/dp/B082P9K1PF/ Try not to gag over their misuse of the word "fitment"
Backup camera but it doesn't make sense to have a dedicated screen. Some people have upgraded the radio to an Atoto A6 PF. There have been a couple recent threads on that. Also covers GPS and dashcam. $200.
The previous owner had used something - I think maybe a Metra - that was fairly flimsy and broke easily.
The best one in my opinion to use is the Scosche double-din kit. Fairly sturdy and easy to assemble and have had no issues with it.
This is the one I purchased. It will tell you it doesn't fit your model year but it did the same for my 2008 and it does fit fine. I don't think that interior panel changed in the 2011s so I would guess it will for yours, but just look.
I think I may get the actual glass on mine tinted for the heat.
I haven't purchased yet, but I was thinking about getting one of these magnetic shades that goes on the outside on the roof, just for stationary camping/car sleeping since it would fly off while driving: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Ant-Breathable-Protection-Breastfeeding/dp/B08Y61BNT5/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3L2AL5KKYC2JR
I primarily use it with wireless CarPlay and have no complaints. It's an amazing deal in this price range IMO. All of the cheaper ones from larger brands seem to have dimmer screens or no wireless CarPlay.
Not sure if your Element has a subwoofer, but I also ended up have to buy this in order to get the subwoofer output loud enough for my liking: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003LWV77Y
My opinion... there are a lot of good 17" options from Hondas or Acuras if you like the OEM look.
I really like these Acura TL ones: https://www.amazon.com/Brand-Replacement-Wheel-Acura-71733/dp/B00CDACYSQ
Car-part.com is also a good place to search for wheels. At least to see what Honda/Acura offered if nothing else.
Peal and stick and it works. Used it in the typical spots and has not delaminated or peeled up in 3 years.
https://www.amazon.com/MastaPlasta-Self-Adhesive-Patch-Leather-Repair/dp/B01H64JKDK/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=58JL2AQCJUL8&keywords=mastaplasta+leather+repair+patch&qid=1665329515&qu=eyJxc2MiOiI1LjI1IiwicXNhIjoiNC41NSIsInFzcCI6IjQuMzAifQ%3D%...
Thanks everybody. If I cant get to the shop but want to fix it in my driveway without a welder or a coathanger - then it looks like this might do the trick? https://www.amazon.com/2-1-Universal-Clamp-Exhaust-Hanger/dp/B086MJ2Z65
No. Just for the front seats. This is the one for the rear seats. I only have them on my front seats.
Yeah, the wire looks aftermarket.
For the smoke, consider an industrisl ozone generator not just some product that has a wimpy ionizer Mildly injurious to plastics and seriously injurious to lungs in high concentration. But in low residual concentrations after the cat is aired out, it is equivalent to the ozone in fresh air. Run the heat and the ACon recirculate so it gets into the ducts and the heating/cooling systems. It will probably take 30-120minutes and it doesn't need to be all at once time. You must not be in the car while it is running or until it has been aired out. If it is allegedly safe to be in the car while the machine is running it isn't going to get the job done. Close the machine in the car with the windows shut. You can use the timer or control power with extension cord or hold your breath while you operate the controls. Then air your car out with the doors open.
Cost is about $70. This is an example.
https://smile.amazon.com/Enerzen-Commercial-Industrial-Deodorizer-Sterilizer/dp/B00JAP7388/
Before using the ozone treatment, clean everything accessable with 70% isopropyl alcohol and paper towels and gloves to remove the tar and let dry before using ozone or operating anything electrical. Flammable. You might also use an upholstery cleaner and vacuum. Remove as much filth as you can.
That wire is leftover from a status light from an aftermarket alarm system. It would blink blue or red when the vehicle is armed. Usually, a small hole is drilled into the dash, and the light pops through it. That tiny button with the gray and black wire on the kick panel is part of that system as well. It's used to program the alarm system and to switch to valet mode. Since it's cut, I'd guess the aftermarket alarm is no longer present. Here is what the light looks like. https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Replacement-Directed-Electronics-Systems/dp/B002PXFZA0/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=B002PXFZA0&psc=1
I've been very happy with these ASLAM blades from Amazon. Just $20 for the pair, including replacement inserts that I still haven't had to replace after two years.
Looking at the Amazon link that I got them from I can confirm that they work for up to 2007.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003BXO8K6/
In the comments it looks like someone confirms they work on 2011
We have a 2003 and got this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0172IZ3HM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1. We are the original owners and am not sure why we only got this, like, a year ago.
Thanks! The cargo net was just from Amazon. There were a bunch of different ones so I just picked a random one and it’s decent quality.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09C5NG2BH?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
This isn’t my exact one, but it’s close. Same shape, same features. It wedges perfectly between the trim. Unfortunately I don’t have a photo or my element any more (make sure you adjust your valves)
we're actually looking for this . He's been left wanting with Haynes on other vehicles
This is what I bought.
FAERSI Door Lock Actuator Motor... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GK7JGP6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I can't speak for longevity, but it's been in about a year of daily use and no issues
I second this recommendation, and the same thing the one I got also isn't made...I found this one as a replacement to post: https://www.amazon.com/AONKEY-Dashboard-Universal-Smartphones-Compatible/dp/B07HX5YSP7
​
Was yours FITFORT brand by chance too :)
​
Anyway these are great, no adhesive, stays put, and can charge while your in there, great for directions.
This is one I have sticks in the space below the radio. Two years in New Mexico summers and still great. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0859VRH6C?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_ud_dp_H7SZ4QSSTQDEJ3BVQZ8Y 2-Pack Magnetic Phone Holder for Car, JOYROOM [2022 Upgraded 6 Stronger N52 Magnets] Dashboard Phone Holder, Extreme Magnetism Adjustable Phone Mount for iPhone 13 12 11 Pro X XR, Samsung Galaxy etc
This is the best one I have found: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HKMSMFL/
Clips into the vent & hasn't come loose over ~2 years, and has survived summer temps in AZ.
We went on a road trip recently and I cannot sing the praises of this device enough:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GCI7BCI?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details. Put it on the dash right over the radio.
I use a device like this:
[the one that I bought is no longer available but this is similar]
It holds me just fine. I'm 6' 2" 250 lbs though, so I can reach to put stuff up there pretty easily. It's mainly to pop up and pull something over to the edge where I can reach it (and maybe a little because it looks like a piece of armor from Mad Max). All in all a pretty unnecessary purchase considering I could have just used one of these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08R86H9CR?psc=1&ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details
I got this phone holder about a year ago and have been happy with it.
I have it mounted above the passenger a/c vent. It partially blocks it but I'm usually driving by myself so it's not a huge deal and I could adjust it if I needed to.
Did you get this one? wondering if it matters to spend the extra $12 for the "genuine Honda" one.
I searched for that top number and this came up....https://www.amazon.com/Honda-Keyless-Entry-Remote-OUCG8D-344H/dp/B07XZH2TZC/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?adgrpid=54743276343&gclid=CjwKCAjw7vuUBhBUEiwAEdu2pJDgAxqmsBvWlkFk3_a3-nqyTr-Pgd5vP2kP_sprdsNRieZbwsUvbhoClucQAvD_BwE&hvadid=583812634951&h...
Im a security guy with a lot of low voltage experience. I could totally create an alarm that activates on a blade cutting vibration. Activates 30 watt siren, and relays flapping to fire off a couple Trip wire Perimeter alarms that are really loud. https://www.amazon.com/ASR-Tactical-Signaling-Anti-Intruder-Perimeter/dp/B07Z5H5J9F?th=1 Could also activate a mace / dye spray with just a bit more engineering. Seriously thinking about this.
Ordered those. Except for that Condenser fan, that one seems to work for the 03 but according to Dorman won't work on the 08+
Dorman 621-386 appears to be the right AC Condenser fan for the 08
Guess I will plug them in and test before doing the whole install. Thanks
I just picked these up off Amazon a couple days ago. The clips can be removed with things you probably have laying around, but some get brittle and old and break off anyway. This helps. 9 bucks for a bunch of clips and a metal tool for them.
Cable and rod all comes together. The OEM part is not only expensive, but costly to install AND not very durable. As an alternative I bought this : https://www.amazon.ca/r%C3%A9paration-poign%C3%A9e-1996-2005-Element-2003-2011/dp/B07CYV2Y33/ref=mp_s_a_1_21?crid=3NDCAP44B1G1C&keywords=honda+element&qid=1653359850&sprefix=honda+element%2Caps%2C95&sr=8-21
It could also be that the lights is not compatible with the old flasher module. For example if you use LED lights you're going to have to change the flasher module because the computer will think the new lights are burnt out since LED bulbs consumes less power than halogen bulbs.
Sure thing. Plenry of data on that over at the elementownersclub.com. the danger is the exhust valve lashes tighten over time, as opposed to the intakes which loosen over time.
When the exhaust valves get too tight, you burn the cylinder. And there goes the engine by and large without expensive teardown or engine swap.
Also, if doing your own service, i always tell new owners to get the full service manual. Same year as my Orang-E so here: 2003 2004 2005 Honda Element Shop Service Repair Manual CD Engine Electrical OEM
3/4 Birch. 2 31x24 hinged and 7x24 hinged. 6 galvanized steel flanges, 6 12" nipples, 6 caps.
Topper - Zermätte Roll Up Travel Mattress | Portable Foldable 3” Gel Infused Memory Foam Sleeping Pad, Camping Floor Mat & Bed Topper w/ Waterproof Cover, Carry Bag, Ear Plugs, Mask | Kids, Cot, Single or Twin https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08DKN8KWG/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_MFWQ0VW5Z6G22VD1N3M2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
3/4 Birch. 2 31x24 hinged and 7x24 hinged. 6 galvanized steel flanges, 6 12" nipples, 6 caps.
Topper - Zermätte Roll Up Travel Mattress | Portable Foldable 3” Gel Infused Memory Foam Sleeping Pad, Camping Floor Mat & Bed Topper w/ Waterproof Cover, Carry Bag, Ear Plugs, Mask | Kids, Cot, Single or Twin https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08DKN8KWG/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_MFWQ0VW5Z6G22VD1N3M2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Clay bars are literally bars of a specially formulate clay-like substance that when rubbed on the car's paint surface will grab all of the tiny impurities that have lodged on the surface of the paint film. This is a typical kit.
Do the headlight/tail lights on the Element flash when you press the fob button?
If the lights on the car flash, the car is getting a signal from the fob and the drivers side door actuator is not working.
Mine started out like yours, would lock but not unlock. Now it won't lock or unlock, but the lights on the car flash every time.
I have been putting off fixing it for a while. I bought supposedly Genuine Honda door actuator from Amazon for $60. https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BFDHZCM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
There are cheaper ones on Amazon for $12, but several reviews said the failed pretty quickly.
I watched a few YouTube videos on how to change out the actuator. I'm guessing it a two hour job. For the amount of time and effort involved, I took a chance on the more expensive Honda part hoping I won't have to do it twice.
lol deal! You want the stock woofer? I did grab that cover. Amazon has a woofer that fits KICKER CompRT 6.75"(165mm) Subwoofer, DVC, 2-ohm, RoHS Compliant https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08NFJRMHP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_VR00H2XH0HWJVRFHE4XG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
2 Pack Bottle Openers, Metal Seat Belt Buckle Clip Multipurpose Fit on your Keychain https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073S5ZBY4/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_KR5TJS7WK4C7NTRFFAX7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 for your seatbelt
Yep! I used these. Be sure to also grab a trim removal kit so you don’t break anything.
I use this rack. I had to lower it a bit so the hatch would clear, but it’s not difficult to do.
It locks into the hitch, and can tilt down so you can open the tailgate as well.
Allen Sports Deluxe Locking Quick... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0792V7HB5?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
It just sits on top. I did use a short 3/8th (about 8") wooden dowel tucked into the front vertically to eliminate the wobble. It goes in the space between the cupholder and charge ports on the passenger side.
It's a cheap fix that gives you storage, better cupholder placement, and charging access.
this is also a good trash can that clips on to the rear cubby, that leaves access to the cubby and doesn't interfere with the rear door.
https://www.amazon.com/Zone-Tech-Portable-Hanging-Garbage/dp/B071LM5P8W
CERAKOTE Ceramic Headlight... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084RQKLV8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Used this a couple months ago, super simple, great results.
$17 total
I have some photos if you want to see the results
I have an '03, and tried the 3M restorer kit. I wasn't really happy with the results, and ended up buying replacements on Amazon. They were $75 each last year, now have risen to $90 a side. But the quality seemed at OEM level, and look, well, new. Something to consider if you can't get your originals looking nice and clear.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DNK6FFM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Man, if you already can replace the starter (and all these other things), the valve adjustment should be easy. Get a pair of angle feeler gauges and (optionally) special valve tool, and take your time with each valve/cylinder.
Would also recommend replacing the valve gasket set while you have the head cover off. Make sure to use a precise torque wrench & proper sequence when tightening the head cover back on! I managed to strip 3 of the 6 thread posts that the head cover nuts screw onto.
The next maintenance item "anticipated" on the list is probably the starter. After reading/watching a bunch of videos, it seems like my best "plan of attack" to get at the starter would be the following:
Is this what you followed/would recommend? Thanks.
It's true, thread lockers like Loctite should never be used on anything conductive as they'll form an insulating barrier. However, there is a conductive epoxy that would probably work. Epoxy is not thread locker though... it will be very permanent.
This is the one I use. It’s pretty comfy.
Molblly 3 inch Tri Folding Twin Memory Foam Mattress, Folding Bed Mattress Topper Pad Camping Mattress Play Mattress Portable Guest Bed for Stayover-38X75X3'' https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08SR4D599/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_VZ3Q2W120BFKV7TP97KG?psc=1
It’s just this one from Amazon.
Be warned: it is - get this - not waterproof! It is known to immediately start rusting. Knowing this, I applied silicone to every joint and nook where water could get in. Then I sprayed Plastidip on the entire thing, extra heavy on those joints and nooks. After a few months - including Seattle’s winter - there is one spot that’s got surface rust. I’ll have to clean that off and reapply the silicone and Plastidip.
I have one of these:
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01C3HAHCS/
It connects with WiFi, not Bluetooth. Works with my iphone. I use the OBD Fusion app.
It's a little tedious but simple. The plastic on the connectors are degrading and you're likely going to break it. Order a replacement proactively.
Michigan Motorsports VTEC Oil Pressure Switch Connector and VTEC Solenoid Plug Pigtail Kit - Fits Honda Civic Prelude https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JD93D98/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_9P51A1QRHQ1CFTFR1E8M?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I’m not crazy about stuff that is dependent on a phone and an app to be useful, seems like something that will be borked by an update / etc.
Unless you have high end needs, I see no reason to get anything real fancy. I think this is what I have, all I need is something to read codes, i have a real mechanic for extensive diagnostics…. though I’m pretty sure I paid more like $20-25 for it… https://www.amazon.com/ANCEL-AD310-Enhanced-Universal-Diagnostic/dp/B01G5EA74I/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=1VFJ7994DSBWC&keywords=obd2+scanner+ancel&qid=1645412612&sprefix=obd2+scanner+ancel%2Caps%2C104&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&smid...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09BDV9X93/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I just ordered these, should be here today to try out. Mine is not pressing as high as it should anymore (2004), and figured 25usd is a low cost of entry on new ones.
Do yourself a favor and install something like this. If you replace the cable, it will just happen again because of the poor design.
Skunk2 Racing 657-05-0030 Magnetic Drain Plug Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000W3TFTW/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_BZ1AKWH8MEEYVM43RTF6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
That is the set i got. Only installed the oil plug since the element transmission plug is already magnetic.
2-3k miles traveled with the seafoamed oil.
Where? Currently installed in the back bottom of your oil pan, ready to drain out the oil once removed.
You will also want fresh crush washers for oil and whatever fluids you change. If you have AWD on yours, you'll prob want to change the read diff fluids too. Just grab those from your local honda dealer so you don't get scammed on cheap knockoffs on amazon. Come in packs of 10 at like .20 a washer.
Here is a link to some other LED headlight bulb replacements. I picked these up as they came recommended form the Honda Element Owners Club. I have yet to have anyone "flash" for brights. Easy 10 minute installation, and no problems at all with brights, flash to pass, or other issues that sometimes happen with the installation of LED bulbs.
I put these in the rear of my 2007 this summer. The rears are the same for all years, I believe. These are KYB, so they are the same as the stock/OEM to the best of my knowledge.
$67 each. KYB 344611 Excel-G Gas Strut https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000C44CP8/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_B7TAZDD8CAF6NRAG03VS
Amazon. They have both for $60. Here is a link
https://www.amazon.com/Walker-82894-Converter-DF-CARB-CalCat-OBDII-PC/dp/B01FUEKM3K
The price has gone up by nearly $100 in the past month on Amazon. It is fully CARB compliant (CO and CA). If you do not live in those states, you only need one of the less expensive ones to process hydrocarbons for your Element's engine computer.
https://www.amazon.com/Catalytic-Converter-2003-2011-Direct-Fit-Compliant/dp/B07QVWR1GB
OP can confirm, but I think these might be the seat covers. I bought a couple sets for my two Elements, but waiting for warmer weather before I put them on.
Gogoku 4-Pack Molle Pouch... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097BKX4DH?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
That’s the ones I got at first and they work great. I tried a 3 pack of slightly bigger ones and even a water bottle holder but the length was too much :/