The Honda Element is a compact crossover SUV that was produced by Honda from 2003 to 2011. While the Element was generally well-received by drivers and reviewers, there were some issues and problems that were reported by owners of the 2009 model.
Some of the most common complaints about the 2009 Honda Element included issues with the transmission, engine, and electrical system.
There were also reports of problems with the suspension, brakes, and steering. Despite these issues, the 2009 Honda Element was still a reliable and capable vehicle that offered a spacious and practical interior and good fuel economy.
2009 Honda Element Problems
1. Groaning Noise on Turns Due to Differential Fluid Breakdown
Some 2009 Honda Element owners reported a groaning or grinding noise when turning the vehicle. This issue was often caused by the differential fluid breaking down, which can lead to damage to the differential and potentially other components as well.
It is important to have the differential fluid checked regularly and replaced when necessary to avoid this issue.
2. Warped Front Brake Rotors May Cause Vibration When Braking
Some owners of the 2009 Honda Element reported experiencing vibration or pulsation when braking, which was often caused by warped front brake rotors. Warped rotors can occur as a result of excessive heat buildup or improper installation, and they can lead to reduced braking performance and increased brake wear.
It is important to have the brake rotors checked and replaced if necessary to maintain the vehicle’s braking performance.
3. Maladjusted Rear Tailgate Will Cause Rear Hatch Light to Come On
Some 2009 Honda Element owners reported that the rear hatch light would come on even when the tailgate was closed, indicating a problem with the tailgate’s adjustment.
This issue was often caused by the tailgate being misaligned or not properly seated, which can cause the light to come on as a warning. It is important to have the tailgate checked and properly adjusted to prevent this issue.
4. Engine Leaking Oil
Some 2009 Honda Element owners reported that their vehicle was leaking oil, which can be caused by a variety of issues such as a damaged oil seal or gasket, a worn engine component, or a problem with the oil drain plug.
It is important to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as necessary to fix the leak and prevent further damage to the engine.
Possible Solutions
| 2009 Honda Element Problems | Possible Solutions |
| Groaning noise on turns due to differential fluid breakdown | Replace differential fluid and have the differential checked for damage |
| Warped front brake rotors causing vibration when braking | Replace front brake rotors and check for any other issues with the braking system |
| Maladjusted rear tailgate causing rear hatch light to come on | Have the rear tailgate checked and properly adjusted |
| Engine leaking oil | Identify and repair the source of the oil leak, such as a damaged oil seal or gasket, or a problem with the oil drain plug |
| Other issues | Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent or address other problems that may arise with the 2009 Honda Element. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and to address any issues as soon as they are noticed to help keep the vehicle running smoothly and reliably. |
2009 Honda Element Recalls
| 2009 Honda Element Problems Recalls | Description |
| Recall 19V501000 | Newly Replaced Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments |
| Recall 19V499000 | Newly Replaced Driver’s Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments |
| Recall 19V182000 | Driver’s Frontal Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments |
| Recall 18V041000 | Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments |
| Recall 17V029000 | Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments |
| Recall 16V344000 | Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator Ruptures On Deployment |
| Recall 15V320000 | Driver’s Front Air Bag Defective |
| Recall 12V436000 | Trailer Turn Signals May Not Function as Expected |
Recall 19V501000:
There is a problem with the newly replaced passenger air bag inflator, which may rupture during deployment and spray metal fragments. This poses a serious injury or death risk to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 19V499000:
There is a problem with the newly replaced driver’s air bag inflator, which may rupture during deployment and spray metal fragments. This poses a serious injury or death risk to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 19V182000:
There is a problem with the driver’s frontal air bag inflator, which may rupture during deployment and spray metal fragments. This poses a serious injury or death risk to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 18V041000:
There is a problem with the passenger air bag inflator, which may rupture during deployment and spray metal fragments. This poses a serious injury or death risk to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 17V029000:
There is a problem with the passenger air bag inflator, which may rupture during deployment and spray metal fragments. This poses a serious injury or death risk to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 16V344000:
There is a problem with the passenger frontal air bag inflator, which may rupture on deployment. This poses a serious injury or death risk to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 15V320000:
There is a problem with the driver’s front air bag, which may be defective. In the event of a crash, the inflator could rupture and send metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
Recall 12V436000:
There is a problem with the trailer turn signals, which may not function as expected. This can be dangerous as the driver’s intent may not be communicated to other drivers, potentially increasing the risk of a crash.
Problems and Complaints Sources
https://repairpal.com/2009-honda-element/problems
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Element/2009/
All Honda Element years we talked –
