How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 2008 Honda Element take?
For the 2008 Honda Element, the automatic transmission holds about 7 quarts of ATF in total; manual transmissions take about 2 to 3 quarts. The exact capacity depends on transmission type and whether you’re draining the pan or performing a full flush.
Understanding the transmission options
The Element was offered with two transmissions: a 5-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. All-wheel drive models use the same automatic transmission capacity as front-wheel drive models, but fluid needs may vary slightly with driving conditions and maintenance history.
Automatic transmission capacity
When talking about the automatic transmission, here are typical capacity figures and what you’ll replace in routine service:
- Total system capacity: about 7 quarts (roughly 6.5–7.5 quarts)
- Pan drain-and-fill capacity: about 3.5–4 quarts
- Full system flush capacity (machine flush): around 9–10 quarts
- Fluid type: Honda ATF DW-1 or equivalent
Note: Actual numbers can vary slightly by vehicle condition and exact transmission variant. Always check the service manual or consult a Honda technician for your specific VIN.
Manual transmission capacity
The 5-speed manual transmission holds a smaller amount of fluid, common for manual Hondas of this era:
- Total system capacity: about 2.2–2.6 quarts
- Drain-and-fill capacity: about 2.0–2.4 quarts
- Fluid type: Honda MTF or equivalent
As with automatics, verify using your owner’s manual or a trusted source for exact quantities based on the model and whether you’re performing a simple fill or a complete service.
Practical tips for maintenance
To ensure you’re using the right fluid and getting accurate measurements, consider these tips:
- Use the fluid type recommended in the owner’s manual (often Honda DW-1 for automatics).
- Always check the transmission fluid level with the engine warmed up and running, following the specific procedure for the Element.
- If you’re unsure about your transmission type (FWD vs AWD) and its exact capacity, consult the VIN-specific service bulletin or a Honda dealer.
Regular checks and careful maintenance can extend transmission life and help prevent costly repairs down the road.
Summary
The 2008 Honda Element’s transmission fluid capacity depends on the transmission type. Automatic transmissions hold about 7 quarts total, with a typical drain-and-fill replacing 3–4 quarts, and a full flush using around 9–10 quarts. Manual transmissions hold roughly 2.2–2.6 quarts. Always double-check using your vehicle’s manual or a trusted dealer for exact figures for your VIN and configuration.
