The 2011 Honda Element was a compact crossover SUV that was produced and sold by the Honda Motor Company. Like all vehicles, the 2011 Honda Element had its share of problems and issues that were reported by owners and automotive experts.
Some of the most common problems with the 2011 Honda Element included transmission issues, problems with the drivetrain, and issues with the fuel system. In addition, there were also reports of problems with the electrical system, suspension, and steering.
While the 2011 Honda Element was generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, these issues did affect a significant number of owners and may have contributed to the model being discontinued in 2011.
2011 Honda Element Problems
Engine leaking oil is a problem that can be caused by a number of issues, including a faulty gasket or seal, a crack in the engine block, or a problem with the oil pump. When the engine is leaking oil, it can cause the oil level to become too low, which can lead to damage to the engine and potentially even engine failure.
Oil leaks can also cause drivability problems, such as a reduction in engine performance or a decrease in fuel efficiency. It is important to address engine oil leaks as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the vehicle.
Possible Solutions
| Problem | Possible Solution |
| Transmission Issues | Check and replace transmission fluid, check and replace transmission filter, check and repair or replace damaged transmission components |
| Drivetrain Issues | Check and repair or replace damaged drivetrain components, such as the driveshaft or differential |
| Fuel System Issues | Check and repair or replace damaged fuel system components, such as the fuel pump or fuel injectors |
| Electrical System Issues | Check and repair or replace damaged electrical components, such as wiring or connectors |
| Suspension Issues | Check and repair or replace damaged suspension components, such as shocks or struts |
| Steering Issues | Check and repair or replace damaged steering components, such as the steering pump or steering box |
| Engine Issues | Check and repair or replace damaged engine components, such as the spark plugs or cylinders. Perform regular maintenance, such as oil changes, to keep the engine running smoothly |
| Exhaust System Issues | Check and repair or replace damaged exhaust components, such as the muffler or exhaust pipes |
| Cooling System Issues | Check and repair or replace damaged cooling system components, such as the radiator or water pump. Check the coolant level and ensure it is at the proper level |
| Brake Issues | Check and repair or replace damaged brake components, such as the brake pads or calipers. Check the brake fluid level and ensure it is at the proper level |
| Heating and AC Issues | Check and repair or replace damaged heating and AC components, such as the blower motor or compressor. Check the refrigerant level and ensure it is at the proper level |
2011 Honda Element Recalls
| Recall Number | Problem Description | Date Announced | Models Affected |
| 19V501000 | Newly Replaced Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments | Jul 1, 2019 | 10 models |
| 19V499000 | Newly Replaced Driver’s Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments | Jul 1, 2019 | 10 models |
| 19V182000 | Driver’s Frontal Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments | Mar 7, 2019 | 14 models |
| 18V662000 | Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments | Sep 28, 2018 | 3 models |
| 18V268000 | Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Potentially Installed Improperly During Replacement | May 1, 2018 | 10 models |
| 18V041000 | Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments | Jan 16, 2018 | 3 models |
| 17V029000 | Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments | Jan 13, 2017 | 7 models |
| 16V344000 | Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator Ruptures On Deployment | May 24, 2016 | 8 models |
| 15V320000 | Driver’s Front Air Bag Defective | May 28, 2015 | 10 models |
| 12V436000 | Trailer Turn Signals May Not Function as Expected | Sep 6, 2012 | 1 model |
Recall 19V501000 and 19V499000:
These recalls were announced in July 2019 and affected 10 models each. They were issued due to a potential issue with the passenger and driver’s air bag inflators, respectively, rupturing during deployment and spraying metal fragments. This could result in serious injury or death to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 19V182000:
This recall, announced in March 2019, affected 14 models and was also related to the driver’s air bag inflator potentially rupturing during deployment and spraying metal fragments.
Recall 18V662000:
This recall, announced in September 2018, affected 3 models and was also related to the passenger air bag inflator rupturing during deployment and spraying metal fragments.
Recall 18V268000:
This recall, announced in May 2018, affected 10 models and was related to the front passenger air bag inflator potentially being installed improperly during replacement. This could cause the air bag to deploy improperly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Recall 18V041000:
This recall, announced in January 2018, affected 3 models and was also related to the passenger air bag inflator rupturing during deployment and spraying metal fragments.
Recall 17V029000:
This recall, announced in January 2017, affected 7 models and was also related to the passenger air bag inflator rupturing during deployment and spraying metal fragments.
Recall 16V344000:
This recall, announced in May 2016, affected 8 models and was also related to the passenger frontal air bag inflator rupturing on deployment.
Recall 15V320000:
This recall, announced in May 2015, affected 10 models and was related to the driver’s front air bag potentially being defective. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the air bag,
the inflator could rupture and send metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, potentially causing serious injury or death.
Recall 12V436000:
This recall, announced in September 2012, affected 1 model and was related to the trailer turn signals potentially not functioning as expected. Without proper illumination of the turn signals, the driver’s intentions may not be communicated to other drivers, potentially increasing the risk of a crash.
Problems and Complaints Sources
https://repairpal.com/2011-honda-element/problems
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Element/2011/
All Honda Element years we talked –
