The 2006 Honda Element is a compact SUV that was popular for its boxy, utilitarian design and spacious interior. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its problems.
Some common issues that have been reported by 2006 Honda Element owners include transmission problems, faulty oxygen sensors, and issues with the air conditioning system.
It is important for owners to be aware of these potential problems and to have their Element regularly serviced in order to prevent or address these issues.
2006 Honda Element Problems
1. Door Lock May be Sticky and Not Work Due to Worn Door Lock Tumblers
This problem can occur when the tumblers inside the door lock mechanism become worn and no longer function properly. This can cause the door lock to become sticky or not work at all, making it difficult to lock or unlock the vehicle.
2. SRS Light Due to Faulty Wire Harness For Seat Belts
The SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light is a warning indicator that is displayed on the dashboard when there is a problem with the vehicle’s seat belts or airbags. In some 2006 Honda Element models, this light may be triggered due to a faulty wire harness that connects the seat belts to the vehicle’s electrical system.
3. Groaning Noise on Turns Due to Differential Fluid Breakdown
The differential is a mechanical component that is responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the wheels of a vehicle. In some 2006 Honda Element models, a groaning noise may be heard when turning if the differential fluid has broken down or become contaminated.
This can cause the differential to become noisy and may require replacement or repair in order to fix the problem.
4. Warped Front Brake Rotors May Cause Vibration When Braking
The brake rotors on a vehicle are responsible for providing a surface for the brake pads to clamp onto, in order to slow or stop the vehicle. If the front brake rotors on a 2006 Honda Element become warped, it can cause a vibration to be felt through the brake pedal and steering wheel when braking.
This can be caused by a variety of factors, including excessive heat, improper installation, or improper torque of the lug nuts.
5. Maladjusted rear tailgate will cause rear hatch light to come on
The rear hatch light on a 2006 Honda Element is designed to come on when the rear tailgate is opened. If the tailgate is not properly adjusted, it can cause the light to come on even when the tailgate is closed.
This can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty latch, a misaligned tailgate, or a problem with the tailgate’s electrical system.
6. Engine Leaking Oil
Oil leaks can occur in any vehicle, and the 2006 Honda Element is no exception. Oil leaks can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty gasket, a damaged oil seal, or a worn engine component. If an oil leak is not addressed, it can cause serious damage to the engine and may result in costly repairs.
It is important for owners of 2006 Honda Element models to regularly check the oil level and to have any leaks repaired as soon as possible.
7. Check Engine Light Due to Faulty A/F Sensor
The Check Engine Light (CEL) is a warning indicator that is displayed on the dashboard when there is a problem with the vehicle’s engine or emissions system.
In some 2006 Honda Element models, the CEL may be triggered by a faulty A/F (Air/Fuel) sensor. The A/F sensor is responsible for measuring the ratio of air to fuel in the engine’s combustion process.
If the sensor is not functioning properly, it can cause the engine to run inefficiently, resulting in a decrease in performance and an increase in fuel consumption.
8. PCM may misinterpret low voltage condition and cause false CEL
The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is a computer that controls the engine and transmission of a vehicle. In some 2006 Honda Element models, the PCM may misinterpret a low voltage condition as a problem with the engine or emissions system, resulting in a false CEL.
This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty battery, a faulty alternator, or a problem with the vehicle’s electrical system.
9. Manual Transmission Cars may Misinterpret Air/Fuel Sensor Readings
In some 2006 Honda Element models with manual transmissions, it has been reported that the air/fuel sensor may misinterpret the fuel-to-air ratio, resulting in reduced engine performance and an increase in fuel consumption.
This problem may be more prevalent in manual transmission vehicles due to the way that they are driven, as the driver has more control over the engine’s RPMs and load.
It is important for owners of 2006 Honda Element models with manual transmissions to have the air/fuel sensor checked and replaced if necessary in order to prevent this problem.
Possible Solutions
| Problem | Possible Solutions |
| Door lock is sticky or not working | Clean and lubricate the door lock mechanism, replace the door lock tumblers, check for any damaged or broken components |
| SRS light is on | Check for any damaged or frayed wires in the seat belt harness, repair or replace the wire harness, check for any other issues with the SRS system (such as a faulty airbag or seat belt pretensioner) |
| Groaning noise on turns | Check the differential fluid level and condition, replace the fluid if necessary, check for any damaged or worn differential components, have the differential inspected by a mechanic |
| Vibration when braking | Check the brake pads for wear, check the brake rotors for warping or damage, check the lug nuts for proper torque, have the brakes inspected by a mechanic |
| Rear hatch light stays on | Check the rear tailgate for proper alignment and adjustment, inspect the latch for any damage or wear, check the electrical system for any issues |
| Oil leak | Check for any visible signs of oil leaks, such as oil stains or puddles under the vehicle, have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic to determine the source of the leak and have it repaired |
| CEL due to faulty A/F sensor | Replace the A/F sensor, check for any other issues with the engine or emissions system |
| False CEL due to low voltage | Check the battery and alternator for any issues, have the electrical system inspected by a mechanic |
| Misinterpreted air/fuel sensor readings (manual transmission) | Have the air/fuel sensor checked and replaced if necessary, check for any other issues with the engine or fuel system |
2006 Honda Element Recalls
| Recall Number | Problem | Affected Models | Date Issued |
| 19V501000 | Newly Replaced Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments | 10 | Jul 1, 2019 |
| 19V499000 | Newly Replaced Driver’s Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments | 10 | Jul 1, 2019 |
| 19V182000 | Driver’s Frontal Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments | 14 | Mar 7, 2019 |
| 18V268000 | Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Potentially Installed Improperly During Replacement | 10 | May 1, 2018 |
| 17V029000 | Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments | 7 | Jan 13, 2017 |
| 16V344000 | Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator Ruptures On Deployment | 8 | May 24, 2016 |
| 15V320000 | Driver’s Front Air Bag Defective | 10 | May 28, 2015 |
| 06V270000 | Honda Recalls 2006-2007 Models Due to Incorrect NHTSA Contact Information in Owner’s Manual | 15 | Jul 26, 2006 |
| 11V395000 (Drive Train) | Automatic Transmission Bearing Failure | 3 | Aug 4, 2011 |
Recall 19V501000:
This recall was issued because newly replaced passenger air bag inflators may rupture during deployment, spraying metal fragments. This can result in serious injury or death to vehicle occupants.
Recall 19V499000:
This recall was issued because newly replaced driver’s air bag inflators may rupture during deployment, spraying metal fragments. This can result in serious injury or death to vehicle occupants.
Recall 19V182000:
This recall was issued because the driver’s frontal air bag inflator may rupture during deployment, spraying metal fragments. This can result in serious injury or death to vehicle occupants.
Recall 18V268000:
This recall was issued because the front passenger air bag inflator may have been installed improperly during replacement. An incorrectly installed air bag may deploy improperly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Recall 17V029000:
This recall was issued because the passenger air bag inflator may rupture during deployment, spraying metal fragments. This can result in serious injury or death to vehicle occupants.
Recall 16V344000:
This recall was issued because the passenger frontal air bag inflator may rupture on deployment, spraying metal fragments. This can result in serious injury or death to vehicle occupants.
Recall 15V320000:
This recall was issued because the driver’s front air bag may be defective. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver’s frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
Recall 06V270000:
This recall was issued because the owner’s manual for certain 2006-2007 Honda models contains incorrect National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) contact information. The language in the owner’s manual does not comply with current mandatory requirements.
Recall 11V395000:
This recall was issued because the automatic transmission bearing may fail. This could cause the engine to stall and increase the risk of a crash or injury. Broken pieces of the outer race or ball bearing from the secondary shaft may become lodged in the parking pawl, causing the vehicle to roll after the driver has placed the gear selector in the park position.
Problems and Complaints Sources
https://repairpal.com/2006-honda-element/problems
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Element/2006/
All Honda Element years we talked –
