How Long Do Honda Elements Last?

The Honda Element is a luxurious compact SUV.

Although it’s been discarded for the past ten years, it’s not surprising that the Honda Element is just as resourceful as any other car that the automaker has invented.

A car reviewing and rating company gave the Honda Element excellent remarks about its quality and reliability. However, the main question is, how long do Honda Elements last?

The most straightforward answer to that is anywhere between 250,000 miles to 300,000 miles, which equals 15 years the least and 20 years the most.

And, of course, a car lasting for such a long time will require just about the right type of care and maintenance.

Driving roughly can affect the longevity of the vehicle; hence driving sensibly can add to the lifespan of the car.

If you looking to invest in Honda Element, then keep on reading below because I’m about to discuss every known detail that you will need to know about the car.

What Is The Average Life Expectancy Of A Honda Element?

This SUV is dependable on its use and the quality and durability of the parts used.

As mentioned above, the estimated lifespan of the Honda Element is 300,000 miles the most.

Some Honda Element owners have even reported that the car has a mileage of 500,000 miles and runs as smoothly as ever.

To provide the car with a long-lasting lifespan, it’s always better to check the quality of the hardware that has been used in both the exterior and interior.

Does Honda Element Last Longer Than Other Similar Vehicles?

If you are wondering how Honda Element is going to work against its competitors then for your ease, I am going to compare Honda Element with three different similar models.

Let’s find out the comparison below and see how Honda Element works in terms of reliability, lifespan, lasting and so on.

1. Honda Element Vs. Honda Fit

The first comparison I have is the Honda Element versus the Honda Fit. Right of the bat, both are by Honda. The Honda Fit, however, is a B-segment 5-door compact car.

It’s been around since 2001 but let’s discuss if it’s better than the Honda Element:

• The Honda Fit has a mileage of 33 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway, whereas the Honda element has an MPG of 21-25. The Honda Fit has more profit here; hence this category is won by it.
• The Honda Fit has 24 complaints reported which is not bad at all.
• The Honda Element has no hardware complaints, but the exterior design has faced criticism. 8-9 people have judged the car’s interior and exterior design.
• Reliability is another key factor. The Honda Fit is 80 out of 100 on dependability and reliability.
• Whereas the Honda Element is given 81 out of 100 on both the factors, the two are equal in this category.
• Lifespan is a very important and frequently discussed element about the car before purchasing.
• The Honda Fit has a life span of 13 to 20 years, which is 200,000-miles to 300,000 miles which, as we know, is an excellent factor.
• The Honda Element also has a life span of 15-20 years that’s roughly 250,000 to 300,000 miles, and the most that it’s been reported is 500,000 miles. This is a win for the Honda Element, for sure.

Of course, the Honda Fit is an excellent, well-equipped SUV, but if you think about a long-lasting warranty for your car, the Honda Element is the choice.

Related: How Many Miles Will A Honda Fit Last?

2. Honda Element Vs. Kia Soul

Next, I have the Honda Element vs. the Kia Soul, both are super reliable SUVs, but the important question here is which one is better and which one is worth buying over the other.

• The Kia Soul has a fuel economy of 28 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway.
• Whereas the Honda Element has a fuel economy of 20 MPG In the city and 25 MPG on the highway, this is a clear point for the Kia Soul.
• Both the vehicles have a 2.4L Inline-4 Gas engine, an equal factor that balances out the car’s reliability.
• We already know the Honda Element doesn’t have many in terms of complaints. However, the Kia Soul has been given 252 technical issues, so the Honda Element wins this category.
• The lifespan of the Kia Soul is 200,000-miles and will last up to 10-13 years, and the Honda Element, as we know, has an average lifespan of 300,000 miles with 15-20 years life span longevity. Hence the Honda Element wins this round too.

As Honda Element is the advent winner here, the Kia Soul is still an amazing car that offers great and resourceful features.

But if you compare the two in terms of purchasing, the Honda Element wins.

3. Honda Element Vs. Subaru Outback

The last comparison I have is the Honda element vs. Subaru Outback.

Both the vehicles have a lot of modern and compact structures but let’s discuss which one is worth buying over the other:

• The Subaru Outback has a mileage of 26 MPG in the city and 33 on the highway, but some complaints about the efficiency of the speed, dropping 23 MPG in the city and around 30 MPG on the highway, which is still pretty good.
• The Honda Element, as we know, has 20 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. This is a win for the Subaru Outback. Even if it lacks efficiency, it is still higher than the Honda Element.
• The Subaru Outback has a lifespan of 250,000 miles to 300,000 miles, equal to 16-20 years. The Honda Element also has the same lifespan, giving both vehicles an equal rank.
• The Subaru Outback has 963 complaints which is a huge setback, whereas the Honda Element has only 8-9, so evidently, this is a win for the Honda Element.
• The Subaru Outback has a reliability rate of 3.5 out of 5 stars which is a good overall rate.
• The Honda Element has a reliability rate of 81 out of 100 which if you round out with the 5-star ratio, both the vehicle have almost the same reliability rate hence a win for both the SUVs.

Judging by the factors mentioned above, both the cars have pros and cons.

Going for either one would be a good option, but the Honda Element does win by a few points hence recommended.

Related: How Long Does A Subaru Outback Last?

Life Expectancy Of Honda Element Car Parts

If you’re looking to gain detailed information about the lifespan of the Honda Element car parts and, just in general, an overall analysis of the longevity of the SUV, then read below as I have discussed every hardware part in detail.

Average Lifespan Of Honda Element Brake Pads

Brakes play a vital role in any vehicle’s life expectancy, hence making sure you use them with care to increase their lifespan.

The average lifespan of the Honda Element brake pads is 25,000 miles, the least, and 60,000 miles, the most. Of course, depending on the usage, the lifespan could increase or decrease.

Average Lifespan Of Honda Element Battery

The Honda Element can last four years on its original battery before you need to replace or change it, which is 75,000 miles for an average battery.

This is pretty good. If you change the batteries even when they’re not in use, you can even increase the Honda Element battery’s lifespan to 6 years.

Average Lifespan Of Honda Element Tires

The Honda element tires can run up to 60,000 miles at the most and 30,000 miles at the minimum wage before needing change or replacement.

Keeping the wheel alignment and imbalance can increase the lifespan of the tires and course driving sensibly and smoothly.

Average Lifespan Of Honda Element Transmission

Usually, the 2007-2008 model version of the Honda Element has a 10hp to 166hp increase and 5-speed automatic transmission, completely replacing the 4-speed automatic transmission.

It lasts a good amount of time before you need to replace or tweak the transmission system.

Average Lifespan Of Honda Element Spark Plug

The spark plugs for the Honda Element are a factory-made collection meant to last for a specific amount of time.

The spark plugs for the Honda Element can last up to 100,000 miles; whereas the standard copper spark plugs have a lifespan of 20,000 miles comparison between the two is very evident.

If you’re looking to replace or change your spark plugs, go for the platinum ones, as they last the longest.

Average Lifespan Of Honda Element Key Fob

The key fob is an expensive component of the Honda Element as its replacement does not come cheap.

Although it’s a bit expensive, it’s a very reliable and modern outtake on a regular key.

Some complaints about the key fob battery not lasting a very long time, but you have nothing to worry about if you are not a frequent user.

An electrical car key is a very convenient factor you can add to your Honda Element, but if you’re not into the modern take on the key, other options are available.

What Is Good Mileage For A Used Honda Element?

Buying a second-hand or used Honda Element is definitely not a bad choice.

The Honda Element is a great SUV packed with amazing compact features and a luxurious interior and exterior.

The average mileage you should look for is 12,000 on a used Honda Element, which means if you’re looking at a used car that has, for example, 5-6 years on it, then it should have around 60,000 miles when you purchase it.

The lower the mileage, the better it is.

How To Increase How Long Your Honda Element Last

If you’re trying to find average measures to increase your Honda Elements lifespan, read the bullets below to know the main precautions you should focus on to increase your SUVs longevity.

• Changing the oil after every 4,000 miles.
• Driving sensibly and on smooth roads.
• Maintenance of the engine.
• If you’re using a used Honda Element, make sure the hardware used is of good quality.
• If an issue occurs, solve it immediately.
• Replace a part instead of repairing it to eliminate the factor of disturbance again.

These are the main things you can do to keep your Honda Element at a good pace for a long period. With this, getting car maintenance every couple of months is also recommended.

Problems That Limit The Life Of Your Honda Element

Knowing the cons of your vehicle beforehand is a serious matter when buying it, especially for the Honda Element, as it’s a compact SUV.

You need to know of the rising problems beforehand to fix them right away due to pre-awareness.

Such as:

• Engine leaks because of faulty oil pressure sensors.
• Defective car door locks.
• Defective rear tailgate.
• Issues with paint, commonly in used vehicles.
• Faulty seat belts.
• Vibration when you press the brake.

These are a few problems that limit the life of your Honda Element, but these are solvable problems that can easily be overcome with the right maintenance.

What To Look For When Buying A Honda Element

When purchasing a vehicle, it’s smart to know what to look for and what pros you need in a car to function according to your liking.

This is only possible if you already know beforehand exactly what you need in a car.

Here is what you need to look for in a Honda Element:

• Mileage.
• Warranty.
• Customer review.
• Take it for a test drive.
• Interior and exterior hardware.
• Engine and its functioning.
• Model of the car.
• Fuel tank capacity.

The Honda Element easily fits all these categories.

Its mileage and MPG on the highway and in the city is also a very important factor, along with the car’s acceleration rate.

The working of the brakes and is it smooth enough for your preference.

Lastly, you need to look for comfortable seats, and adjustable seats are a must. Some people have complained about the seats not being adjustable in used SUVs.

Related: Best And Worst Years For Honda Element

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is The Honda Element A Reliable Car?

Yes, the Honda Element is a very reliable car. It has a 4.0 rating out of 5.0 for its reliability. Many reviews show its durability and resourcefulness.

If you are second-guessing buying the Honda Element taking it for a test drive will ensure you of its reliability.

Q2. Does Honda Element Have A Lot Of Problems?

As mentioned above, the Honda Element does have a few problems that arise with time, not that these issues can’t be solved but are a bit dangerous to deal with, especially while driving, such as:

• Jammed door locks can cause havoc in a serious situation.
• Brake failure on the road can cause accidents.
• Faulty seat belt locks can cause harmful and life-threatening results.
• A faulty engine can cause oil leakage and can even result in a huge fire.

These are a few very dangerous problems that cannot be overlooked, but with the right maintenance of the vehicle, these can be managed easily.

Q3. Is It A Good Idea To Buy A Used Honda Element?

If you’re looking for a compact luxury SUV with good mileage on-road and a good quality engine and hardware parts, then yes, it’s a splendid idea to buy a Honda Element.

The car barely has any cons. The best part is the cons!

If there are cons that occur during your time using the car, they are 100% resolvable; hence you don’t need a solid reason not to buy this amazing SUV.

Q4. Does Honda Element Rust Easily?

Mainly the galvanized bolt heads rust the quickest for the Honda Element, and the customers have complained directly to the company about this issue.

The Honda vehicles have been known to rust, especially the engine sub-frame, the door frames, and rear quarters. It’s either you replace the rusty parts or live with them.

This definitely adds to one of the most hectic problems of the Honda Element. You can prevent this from happening way too fast by not parking in extremely moist weather.

But this is an evident thing prone to happen no matter what. If you are willing to spend a little extra, getting them changed is the way to go.

Q5. Is Honda Element Expensive To Maintain?

The average cost for the maintenance of the Honda Element is between $100 to $1800, which for a car that you use daily isn’t a lot. So no, the Honda Elements are that expensive to maintain.

You are paying $400-$500 yearly for your SUV’s maintenance which is pretty cheap for a frequently used vehicle, whereas the average maintenance rate for any vehicle is $600 the most.

Conclusion

There we have a complete and mindful guide to the Honda Element why you should buy it and why you should, and every little detail about the car’s hardware is mentioned above.

I have even answered the most frequently popping question “How Long Do Honda Elements Last?”, and everything you need to know about the car’s longevity.

If you’re looking to purchase a used car, the above-mentioned article also has a whole description of what to look for in a used car.

I would highly recommend you give the Honda Element a chance if you’re looking for a good quality SUV with compact and luxury features.

The car offers a lot for its price, and the low maintenance rate will add to your friendly budget.

Tahir Azam

I am Tahir Azam, and I have been writing amazing articles for TaxiHack for as long as I can remember. I know everything that is to know when it comes to automobiles and is always on top of industry news and developments. While I am not an expert by any means, I pride myself on knowing the ins and outs of many different problems and, of course, their solutions. The articles on our website are some of the best and well-researched content that you will find, and I spend countless hours making sure this remains to be true. This is why I ask you to take your time out and read some of my articles, especially if you find a topic that resonates with you or is something you are looking into. This way, you will find the perfect mix of information and tips on your desired topic. Learn more about Tahir.