Is the Honda Element a 4 or 6 cylinder?
The Honda Element uses a four-cylinder engine in every year it was sold; there was no factory V6 option.
Engine configuration and options
Generational overview
The Element’s powertrain remained within one family across its production run. Here are the core details that defined its engine setup.
- Engine: 2.4-liter inline-4 i-VTEC (K-series).
- Number of cylinders: Four.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive was standard; all-wheel drive (Real-Time AWD) was available on select trims and years.
- Transmissions: Manual and automatic options were offered depending on year and trim.
These characteristics reflect Honda’s emphasis on practicality and interior versatility over high horsepower in the Element.
Why the question matters
Whether a car has four or six cylinders can influence performance, fuel efficiency, and buyer expectations. For the Element, the four-cylinder configuration was chosen to balance urban usability with light off-road capability and a straightforward maintenance profile.
Context within Honda's lineup
In Honda’s broader lineup, some models offer V6 options or later turbocharged variants. The Element, however, remained a four-cylinder model throughout its production run, and there were no factory V6 Element variants. After its 2011 discontinuation, some enthusiasts pursued aftermarket engine swaps, but those are non-factory configurations.
Production timeline
The Honda Element was produced from 2003 through 2011, with two generations and multiple trims (LX, EX, and SC in various markets). The 2.4L four-cylinder engine powered all of them, reflecting the model’s focus on space, practicality, and efficiency.
Summary
The Honda Element is a four-cylinder vehicle. It never offered a factory six-cylinder engine; its powertrain was built around a 2.4-liter inline-4 i-VTEC across all years of its production (2003–2011). This choice aligned with the model’s utilitarian, versatile niche in Honda’s lineup.
What is the bad year for the Honda Element?
The 2003 Honda Element is often considered a bad year due to numerous complaints about ignition issues, engine problems, and door locks, according to CarBuzz, CarParts.com, and Reddit users. Other model years with more frequent owner-reported problems include 2004, 2005, and 2006, with issues such as exhaust system problems, suspension wear, and faulty door locks, notes Consumer Reports and CarParts.com. While some common issues like oil leaks and differential problems can affect many models from 2003-2011, it's important to check for specific problems in any used model year.
Worst years to avoid
- 2003: This model year had the most owner complaints, particularly concerning malfunctioning door locks and ignition keys that wouldn't insert properly.
- 2004: Some owners reported problems with the battery, steering wheel vibration, and prematurely worn rear wheel bearings.
- 2005: Common issues include problems with the exhaust system, such as the muffler and catalytic converter, and problems with doors and locks.
- 2006: Reported issues include suspension components like ball joints, and problems with rear calipers freezing.
What to look for in any used Honda Element
- Oil leaks: Some models from 2003-2011 have leaked engine oil due to faulty oil pressure sensors.
- Engine problems: Be aware of potential engine misfires and warning lights, especially in earlier years.
- Differential and transmission issues: Listen for groaning noises when turning, which could indicate a problem with the rear differential.
- Suspension and steering: Check for worn suspension components like shocks, struts, and ball joints, which can require expensive replacement.
- Door locks: Malfunctioning door locks are a common complaint, particularly in earlier models.
General advice for buying a used Element
- Perform a thorough inspection: Check for all the common issues listed above before purchasing.
- Check the vehicle history: Review the service history to ensure regular maintenance has been performed, especially for the transmission fluid and valve adjustments.
- Prioritize later models: Later model years (2007 and up) have some key improvements, including more engine power and a five-speed automatic transmission, making them potentially more desirable.
- Don't let "bad years" deter you: With proper maintenance and inspection, many Elements from the "bad years" can still be reliable vehicles.
Why did they discontinue the Honda Element?
Honda discontinued the Element after the 2011 model year because of declining sales, which were impacted by competition from the Honda CR-V, shifting consumer preferences for more fuel-efficient and traditionally styled SUVs, and the Element's niche appeal. The vehicle's boxy design and less aerodynamic shape contributed to a lower overall fleet fuel economy average, and strategic shifts in Honda's lineup made it less viable to continue production.
- Declining sales: Sales dropped significantly from an initial high of over $67,000 in its first year to under $12,000 in 2011, making it less profitable for Honda.
- Competition from the CR-V: The more conventionally styled and popular Honda CR-V was seen as a better alternative by many customers, and even shared the same assembly line, taking resources away from the Element's production.
- Shifting market preferences: Consumer tastes evolved towards sleeker, more aerodynamic designs, and a greater emphasis on fuel efficiency. The Element's boxy shape and lower fuel economy became a disadvantage in this new market.
- Niche appeal: Despite its popularity with a dedicated cult following, the Element was considered a niche vehicle. Honda ultimately found that the cost of production and its limited mainstream appeal were not sustainable in the long term, especially as the company shifted focus to models with broader market potential.
What cylinder is a Honda Element?
2.4L 4-CYLINDER
2.4L 4-CYLINDER DOHC i-VTEC ENGINE.
How much is a 2005 Honda Element worth today?
The value of a used 2005 Honda Element ranges from $1,013 to $4,938, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
