“Tl* the contact owns a 2003 honda element. The contact started the ignition and the windshield wipers failed to function when they were engaged. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated the windshield wiper motor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 17, 2012 at 140,000 miles
“2003 honda element windshield cracked at bottom of passenger side while sitting in my driveway so I had it replaced. A couple months later cracked same location and eventually split all the way across the windshield blocking view. Called mfg and was told due to being over 60,000 miles I will have to pay for repairs. What does the mileage have to do with the windshield.”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 17, 2010 at 63,000 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the visibilityRecall (red: the visibility)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2003 Element peaked in 2004, with 121 filed that year. No recall on file covers the visibility, the subject of 53% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 1 so far.
12 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module19V499000
Filed Jun 27, 20193,947 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2003-2006 MDX, 2001-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot and 2006 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are Q5A and Y58.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module19V501000
Filed Jun 27, 20191,657,752 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2012 RL, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are E5D and X5C.
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module19V182000
Filed Mar 6, 20191,101,534 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.
Risk. An explosion of an inflator within the driver frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver, front seat passenger or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began April 10, 2019. Honda owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is O41. Acura owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is U40.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V268000
Filed Apr 26, 20181,335 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2012 Honda Accord and Pilot, 2010 Accord Crosstour, 2001-2011 Civic, 2002-2011 CR-V, 2003-2004, 2006-2008 and 2011 Element, 2007 and 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2012 Insight, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2012 Ridgeline vehicles. The front passenger air bag may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.
Risk. An incorrectly installed air bag may deploy improperly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall began June 22, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are K1P, and M1O.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module16V344000
Filed May 23, 20161,790,894 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2011 Acura RL, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2006-2011 Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or that have ever been registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2008 Acura RL, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2003-2008 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2006-2008 Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or that have ever been registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling model year 2002-2004 Odyssey and model year 2003-2004 Acura MDX, Honda Element, and Honda Pilot vehicles originally sold, or registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began June 27, 2016. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KA0, KA1, KA2, and KA3.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module15V370000
Filed Jun 15, 20153,498,481 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic vehicles manufactured March 21, 2000, to January 20, 2005, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX vehicles manufactured June 14, 2000, to August 19, 2004, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid vehicles manufactured February 24, 2002, to January 18, 2005, 2003-2007 Honda Accord vehicles manufactured February 21, 2002, to August 28, 2007, 2002-2004 Honda CR-V vehicles, 2002-2003 Honda Odyssey vehicles manufactured June 19, 2001, to July 12, 2003, 2003 Acura MDX vehicles manufactured September 19, 2002, to June 19, 2003, 2003 Honda Element vehicles manufactured June 25, 2002, to July 31, 2003, and 2003 Honda Pilot vehicles manufactured November 26, 2001, to August 21, 2003. The affected vehicles have a passenger side frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture upon its deployment.
Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the passenger seat occupant or other occupants possibly causing serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on July 1, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are JU4, JU5, JU6, and JU7. Note: Vehicles that have already received a replacement passenger air bag inflator as part of the recall remedy for an earlier campaign such as 14V353 or 14V700 (Honda recall numbers S95, JH6, JH7, JH8, JH9, JJ0, JJ1, JJ2, JJ6, JM5 and JM6) are not included in this recall. However, this recall does supersede 13V132 and 14V349. Note: On December 18, 2015 Honda informed NHTSA of an expansion of this recall to include certain model year 2004 Honda CR-V vehicles in addition to additional model year 2003 CR-V vehicles.
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module15V320000
Filed May 28, 20156,281,043 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2001-2007 Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2006 Ridgeline, 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2003-2006 Acura MDX, and 2002-2003 Acura 3.2TL vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion and other factors, including manufacturing variability that, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
Risk. 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.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on July 1, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Owners may contact Acura customer service at 1-800-382-2238, select option 4. Note: Vehicles that have had their driver frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy prior to September 12, 2014 need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Vehicles that, on or after September 12, 2014, received a remedy for a prior driver frontal air bag inflator recall already received an inflator of a different design, and therefore are not included in this recall and do not require additional servicing. Note: This recall fully supersedes recalls 08V-593, 09V-259, 10V-041, 11V-260, 14V-351 and 15V-153. Honda's numbers for this recall are JQ9, JR0, JR1, JR2, JR3, JR4, JR5, JR6, JR7, and JR8.
Defect. American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic, 2003-2004 Civic CNG and Element, 2002-2005 CR-V, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2005 Accord, Pilot, Civic Hybrid, and Acura MDX, 2005 Acura RL and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Saipan, Guam, and American Samoa are addressed by this recall. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
Filed Jun 20, 2014133,207 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. American Honda Motor Company, Inc.'s (Honda) is conducting a limited regional recall for certain model year 2003-2005 Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot and Acura MDX, model year 2003-2004 Odyssey and Element, and model year 2005 Acura RL, and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in California, and equipped with Takata-brand air bag inflators. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflators in all affected vehicles, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during August 2014. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
Filed Aug 5, 2010551,498 vehiclesHonda (american Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003 HONDA ACCORD, CIVIC TWO AND FOUR DOOR, AND MODEL YEAR 2003-2004 HONDA ELEMENT VEHICLES. THE INTERLOCK LEVER OF THE IGNITION SWITCH MAY UNEXPECTEDLY DEFORM, WHICH CAN ALLOW THE INTERLOCK FUNCTION OF A VEHICLE WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION TO BE DEFEATED.
Risk. REMOVAL OF THE IGNITION KEY WHEN THE GEAR SELECTOR OF A VEHICLE WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION HAS NOT BEEN SHIFTED TO THE PARK POSITION CAN ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO ROLL AWAY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE ORIGINAL INTERLOCK PIN AND LEVER WITHIN THE IGNITION SWITCH, AND REPLACE THEM WITH NEW, DESIGNED COMPONENTS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.
Defect. DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
All 12 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 4 name the 2003 Element.
Desiccated Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA21002Open
Opened Sep 17, 2021airbags
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at …
Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA15001Open
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field …
Air Bag Inflator RupturePreliminary evaluation PE14016Closed
Opened Jun 11, 2014Closed Mar 2, 2015Led to recall 13V172000airbags
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field …
Opened Jan 5, 2009Closed Oct 14, 2010Led to recall 10V364000electrical system
On August 4, 2010, American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA regarding a ignition interlock defect in approximately 384,220 model year (MY) 2003 Honda Accord and Civic and MY 2003 and 2004 Honda Element vehicles with automatic transmissions (Recall 10V-364).In a September 22, 2010 supplemental DIR, Honda expanded the scope of the recall population based on manufacturing and complaint data.The total population for the complete recall is approximately 551,498 vehicles.The information listed in this closing report refers only to the subject vehicles, …
Technical service bulletins
172 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2003 Element. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
airbags 65engine 21equipment 19transmission 17electrical system 14body and frame 7visibility 6door locks and latches 5
A18-051Warranty extensionJun 30, 2026airbags
Service Bulletin - Warranty Extension: Customer Support Program For Front Passenger's Airbag Inflator.
A20-009Warranty extensionMar 10, 2020airbags
Service Bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement driver's airbag inflator only.
A20-014Warranty extensionMar 10, 2020airbags
Service Bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement front passenger's airbag inflator only.
A18-051Warranty extensionJun 1, 2018airbags
Service bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement front passengers airbag inflator only.
06-084Warranty extensionFeb 5, 2008visibility
HONDA SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. WARRANTY EXTENSION: 2003-04 ELEMENT WINDSHIELD. CSC WAS RECEIVED. *NJ
New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Structure › Body
Filed Oct 28, 2026WI
Component/System: Unibody frame rails and structural rocker panels have suffered severe internal interlamellar delamination, heavy corrosion, and complete metal-through structural failure. The vehicle and components are available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: Severe rust-through compromises the unibody structural integrity, creating a critical risk of frame collapse, compromised crash energy management, and loss of vehicle control during normal driving or an accident, endangering occupants and others on the road. Confirmation: Structural corrosion and metal failure have been confirmed through direct physical inspection of the undercarriage. Previous Inspections: None by manufacturer, police, or insurance. Symptoms/Warnings: No dashboard warning lamps. Physical symptoms included surface blistering, flaking, and subsequent structural metal tearing as internal rust expanded over time.
Structure
Filed Nov 10, 2025115,000 milesNY
The contact owns a 2003 Honda Element. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. Upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact discovered that the rear trailing arm was severely corroded. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the rear trailing arm had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 115,000.
Suspension
Filed Nov 4, 2025DC
Please see attachment:
Suspension
Filed Oct 5, 2025MN
The trailing arm connection that connects to the subframe has completely rusted make the car unsafe to drive. Parts will break and driver will lose control of the car. These same parts were recalled in Canada many years ago.
Suspension
Filed Aug 19, 2025MI
Rear driver side trailing arm separating from body non repairable. Needs professional inspection. Northern state purchased Michigan driven in salt conditioned roadways. Canadian recall for same issue. Recall Details Transport Canada Recall Number2021-024 Recall Date2021-01-26 Last Updated2023-07-07 Notification TypeSafety TC SystemStructure Issued byHONDA Manufacturer Recall NumberHO65 Units Affected The number of vehicles or components affected by the recall.12,641 CategorySUV Recall Description Issue: On certain vehicles, the rear frame could rust. In extreme cases, this could result in a rear trailing arm separating from the vehicle. This recall applies to vehicles originally sold or currently registered in areas of heavy road salt usage (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador). Safety Risk: A rear trailing arm that separates could cause a loss of control and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Honda will notify owners by mail. Owners will be instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer for an inspection of the rear trailing arm front mount bolts. If the vehicle passes the inspection, the dealer will apply corrosion protection and install support braces. Honda will offer to repurchase vehicles that do not pass the inspection. In the event the repurchase is declined by an owner, a secondary inspection and body shop repair method may be possible. MakeModelModel Year(s) Affected HONDAELEMENT2003 2004 2005 2
Electrical System
Filed Jul 17, 2025FL
I was driving and my odometer light and dash lights went dim on me. I changed the bulbs it didn't make a difference. I had to replace the instrument cluster. Other complaint is drivers seat keeps loosening from the floor
Structure › Body
Filed Jul 14, 2025PA
Rust corrosion
SuspensionCrash
Filed Jan 3, 2025CT
In 2023 while driving my 2003 Honda Element the control arm ripped out of the frame I had it fixed to the tune of $1800. Fast forward to this week when servicing my Element I found a major rust spot on the other trailing arm bracket. After more research there is a recall in Canada to fix this but not in US. how can this be? It is a major flaw and concern that at high speeds the arm can rip out. Honda has a fix, but it is not offered in the US. please help!
Suspension
Filed Sep 14, 2024WI
Vehicle has extreme corrosion of the frame near the rear trailing arm which is nearing catastrophic failure. Trailing arm is in danger of separating from the frame. This is similar to NTSB Campaign # 23V-22800 for the CR-V which shares suspension parts with the Element on these model years. If the trailing arm separates at highway speeds it could be fatal. This is a pre-emptive report of failure/loss, as I just attempted to jack up my vehicle on the drivers' side in the rear and had a great deal of the rusted frame detach near the point of the trailing arm attachment. I fear that it won't be long before the rest of the frame rusts through and if this occurs, that it may occur at highway speed and cause injury or death.
Air Bags
Filed Jul 1, 2024200,000 milesWA
The contact owns a 2003 Honda Element. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V370000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the recall repair was completed. The contact stated that the vehicle was at the dealer for a week for the recall repair. The contact stated that while the vehicle was still at the dealer, the vehicle was started, and the air bag warning light illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that a diagnostic test was needed to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Structure
Filed Mar 11, 2024180,000 milesMO
The contact owns a 2003 Honda Element. The contact stated that while the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the trailing arm fractured. In addition, the rear of the vehicle dropped to the ground and the driver's rear side of the vehicle was dragging on the ground. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
Suspension
Filed Feb 11, 2024IN
The drivers side mount for the rear trailing arm has rusted to the point it may be unsafe to drive according to my mechanic. I looked online and saw that Honda has issued a recall campaign in Canada but not the US. I do know from my local dealer that Honda did have them bring in several customer cars for inspection and several of those also had the same problem. These cars that have been affected certainly are not safe to drive in my opinion.
Air Bags1 injured
Filed Feb 1, 2024OR
While driving on a rough road the driver's seat airbag deployed injuring my arm (big bruise and tennis-ball size laceration). I plan to take the vehicle into the dealership to find out why this happened.
Suspension
Filed Dec 4, 2023200,000 milesMN
The contact owns a 2003 Honda Element. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at approximately 25 MPH, the rear driver’s side tire detached from the vehicle. Despite the failure, the contact's daughter managed to drive the vehicle to the residence. Upon inspection, the contact discovered that the rear trailing arm had detached from the vehicle. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000. The VIN was not available.
Suspension
Filed Nov 4, 2023MA
Inspection of the underbody revealed complete rusting away of the frame mount point for the passenger side lower control arm. The mounting has not failed yet, but the metal surrounding the bolt point is no longer providing any structure. I would not ordinarily have thought inform the NHTSA of this failure, but Internet searching has turned up many other owners of Elements experiencing this same failure and Honda has issued a recall in Canada for Elements for this problem. CR-Vs in the US that use the same chassis have had a recall for the same problem. Why has the recall not been extended to US Elements that are exposed to road salt? I have not yet contacted Honda regarding this issue.
Structure › Body
Filed Oct 29, 2023MN
Same as the recalls for Honda ELEMENT of Canada and American Honda CRV of America In Honda’s words: SUMMARY: American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) is recalling certain 2007-2011 model year CR-V vehicles. In salt-belt states where de-icing agents are used to maintain the roadway, the de-icing agents, along with mud and water, could enter the rear frame through drainage/positioning holes when the vehicle is driven through flooded areas or puddles at high speeds. Over time, the accumulated de-icing agents/mud/water mixture could cause corrosion to the frame's internal structure. If this occurs, the rear trailing arm can fall off. SAFETY RISK: The corrosion to the frame's internal structure can cause the rear trailing arm to fall off, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 23, 2023MN
The rear frame brace of my Honda element is rusted. Same exact situation as the recalls on 2007-2011 Honda CRV
Suspension
Filed Oct 19, 2023MA
I was driving and felt something broke from the driver rear. I had a mechanic look at it and it was the trailing arm. inspector said it not safe to drive. I see there is a recall in Canada but not in America. This is a safety matter. how can we fix this since it the frame?
Structure
Filed Oct 11, 2023140,000 milesCT
The contact owns a 2003 Honda Element. The contact stated that upon inspecting the vehicle, the independent mechanic informed him that the trailing arm mount was corroded, and that the subframe needed to be replaced. The mechanic advised the contact that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Power Train
Filed May 5, 2023179,000 milesGA
The contact owns a 2003 Honda Element. The contact stated that after parking and turning off the vehicle, the vehicle would roll forward or backward. The contact stated that he restarted the vehicle and shifted into park(P), and the vehicle responded as needed. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving and unintendedly striking the gear shifter, the vehicle shifted out of gear. The contact stated that he would manually shift back into the intended gear. The check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the ignition switch had failed to turn and was repaired by a locksmith; however, the failure recurred. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired free of charge because it was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V364000 (Electrical System). The contact stated that the vehicle was undrivable. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 179,000. The VIN was unavailable.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Apr 20, 2023FL
Seems Honda is hiding specific vin needing recal replacement of airbag fue to fact it's deployed. Attempt to cover up recall regarding this specific vin possibly aware that damage is done and if airbag deployed, vin check results "no current recalls" for vehicle. 2003 Honda Element had first recall replacement done. At that time Honda had person come to house to notify. This time, second recall, too late. It deployed and air bag is on recall list. Please provide honest facts. Correct me please if I misunderstood.
Suspension
Filed Oct 28, 2022NJ
My 2003 has severe rust around undercarriage mainly in the rear. The rear frame is corroded causing my drivers side trailing arm to come loose while driving on the highway. I almost lost control as the rear started to fishtail. Luckily I had no vehicles next to me which would have caused a major accident. I've done research and they do have the recall in Canada but not here in the USA. Honda should immediately have that recall before someone gets seriously hurt or even worse!
SuspensionCrash
Filed Oct 18, 2022NY
The car was being driven at a low speed across a school parking lot when there was a loud bang, the car dropped in the back and stopped movong. The rear trailing arm came apart from the body causing it to be inoperable. If I the car wasn't in a school zone and traveling at a high rate of speed this could have been a very serious accident. If there was a vehicle behind they would have rear ended the honda. If this happens on going down a hill it would have rolled over. If this happened on a busy highway it would have caused a multi car accident. Honda is aware of this issue in Canada but has done nothing to address it here in the United States. The vehicle is available for inspection for now. I can't have a vehicle sitting in my driveway that's inoperable due to city codes. The safety of the driver, passengers, pedestrians walking and other vehicles on the road are in danger. This is a very top heavy vehicle that could easily flip and roll over causing seriously injury even death. I had the vehicle towed from where it broke, the tow truck driver is a mechanic who looked at it. He said what broke. I had another mechanic stop and look because he is a welder and said it can't be repaired at this point. There were no warning lights or signs of this happening. Unless you live in Canada where they sent owners a recall in the mail as long as they live in areas that have high salt usage on their roads.......not sure why that just pertains to Canada because, Michigan, New York, Vermont
Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 3, 2022FL
This car was recalled in the past for a faulty ignition switch. I had the recall done, then paid for one from the dealer a second time as it happened again, and now I am having the issue a third.time. I believe the replacements are also faulty.
Suspension
Filed Feb 28, 2022FL
Rear trailing arm mounts rusted out and the arms dropped out from under the car I had almost 3 thousand dollars worth of repair done to it this summer And I really don’t feel the car is safe It has 92k on it and it hasn’t been driven on the road in years since this happened I finally found someone who would even attempt to fix it Why are the cars being replaced and repaired in Canada but not here??
Suspension
Filed Aug 9, 2021FL
I turned onto Davie Blvd from SE 32nd heading West. I heard a “pop” & suddenly car was out of control-feeling like sliding. I pulled off to side street as I thought flat tire due to “pop” noise. All tires seemed fine so tried to drive again slowly but still felt no control/sliding effect. I slowly drove on side road watching back driver tire when I noticed it was facing outward as I steered straight. I learned from tow driver the sway bar/support snapped off from frame. I had car towed to where I was staying & researched on internet and was shocked to see many other Honda elements with same exact issue - and recall but now I see no recall (only in Canada where his Honda was repaired at no cost to him just in April of 2021 for 2003 Honda Element. I am upset as this was suppose to be my long term car after I had invested over $1700.00 just in past months to assure long future use. Engine works perfectly.
Air Bags
Filed Aug 5, 2021WI
Airbag lights keeps turning on and off and has now stayed on permanently. This is a safety issue if airbags fail to deploy.
Steering
Filed Jul 22, 2021NY
The rear trailing arm of the car came off while driving. The part of the frame where the suspension connects rusted through. I looked up related cases and it seams that there is a recall only in Canada and not in the US. This is dangerous and almost sent me off the road with no warning. Everything else on the car works wonderfully and the car rand and drove great until this happened.
Structure › Body
Filed Apr 28, 2021168,000 milesCO
I'M CONCERNED WITH THE AMOUNT OF RUST UNDER THE VEHICLE. MY ELEMENT IS FROM PENNSYLVANIA AND THEY DO USE SALT ON THE STREETS IN THE WINTER. TOOK CAR TO MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD THE CAR WAS VERY RUSTED UNDERNEATH. CHANGING PARTS UNDER THE CAR IS A DIFFICULT TASK DUE TO THE REST. MECHANIC SAID IT WAS CAUSE CAR WAS DRIVEN IN PENNSYLVANIA THE CAUSE IS TO HOW THE ROADS ARE SALTED. I DID READ THIS IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM IN CANADA AND OTHER PLACES AND VERY DANGEROUS BUT IN AMERICA NOT AS MUCH. I'M WONDERING HOW I GET THIS LOOKED AT BY HONDA AND THE PROBLEM BE FIXED LIKE OTHER ELEMENTS ARE BEING FIXED OR TO SEE IF IT PASSES TO HAVE THE UNFORCED BRACKET PUT ON.
Suspension
Filed Apr 16, 2021240,000 milesCO
REAR TRAILING ARMS CAUSING UNSAFE DRIVING REAR END UNSAFE OVER BUMPS
Suspension
Filed Mar 19, 2021210,000 milesIL
THE SUBFRAME IS RUSTED NEAR THE REAR CONTROL ARM, THERE IS A DANGER OF THE CONTROL ARM SEPARATING WHICH CAN RESULT IN A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY WHEN I DISCOVERED THIS AS I WAS ATTEMPTING TO JACK THE CAR UP TO CHANGE A TIRE.
Structure › Body1 injured
Filed Mar 18, 2021204,862 milesWA
THE DOOR LOCK CYLINDERS FOR THE DRIVER/PASSENGER/TAILGATE WILL NOT ACCEPT A KEY TO UNLOCK THE DOORS. THE LOCKS ARE IMMOVABLE FROM THE OUTSIDE AND INSIDE, REQUIRING A LOCKSMITH TO OPEN THE DOORS OR COMPLETE REMOVAL OF THE DOORS TO SAFELY ENTER AND EXIT THE VEHICLE. THE KEY, WHEN INSERTED INTO THE LOCK IN ATTEMPT TO ENTER THE VEHICLE, OFTEN WILL NOT RELEASE FROM THE SEIZED LOCK CYLINDER RESULTING IN THE KEY FIRMLY LODGED IN THE LOCK OF THE DOOR, RENDERING IT IMPOSSIBLE THEN TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. THE ABOVE MENTIONED CYLINDER LOCKS ARE SAFETY HAZARDS FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS: CHILDREN AND ADULTS ENTERING AND EXITING THE VEHICLE MAY BE PRONE TO INJURY FROM ONCOMING TRAFFIC DUE TO DOOR CYLINDER LOCKS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY AND CAUSING THE DOOR TO JAM REQUIRING FORCEFUL PRESSURE TO BE APPLIED FROM THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE IN ORDER FOR THE DOOR TO OPEN. INFANTS AND ELDERLY INDIVIDUALS INCAPABLE OF THE MOTOR SKILLS NECESSARY TO OPEN DOORS AND LOCKS MAY BE LOCKED INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE WITH UNCONTROLLABLE IN CABIN TEMPERATURES RESULTING IN EXCESSIVE HEAT/COLD FOR AN EXTENDED AMOUNT OF TIME THAT COULD RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH. QUICK AND SAFE ENTRY AND EXIT TO AND FROM THE VEHICLE IS IMPOSSIBLE, RESULTING IN AN INCREASE OF THE PROBABLE INSTANCES OF THEFT OR DAMAGE TO PERSONS/PROPERTY ATTEMPTING TO ENTER/EXIT THE VEHICLE IN LESS THAN PERFECTLY SAFE CONDITIONS. THE FEE INVOLVED WITH SERVICING THE REPLACEMENT OF THIS DOOR LOCK CYLINDER IS EXORBITANT. A QUOTE FROM THE DEALER
Air Bags
Filed Aug 20, 2020CA
2003 HONDA ELEMENT. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG AND IGNITION SWITCH SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS IMPROPERLY REPAIRED DURING THE RECALL REPAIR PROCESS. *JS THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT, DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE.*JS *JS
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed May 30, 2019110,000 milesMA
GOING ALONG HIGHWAY I90 AT 65MPH AND I DECIDED TO ENGAGE THE CRUISE CONTROL SETTING ON MY 2003 HONDA ELEMENT . WHEN TRAFFIC BECAME TOO CONGESTED I DECIDED TO SHUT OFF THE CRUISE CONTROL , ONLY TO FIND OUT THAT NOW I COULDN'T ACCELERATE. IT SEEMS THIS ISSUE HAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH A FAULTY THROTTLE CABLE . EITHER WAY THIS NEEDS TO BE FIXED IMMEDIATELY .
Electrical System › Ignition
Filed May 10, 2019WA
2003 HONDA ELEMENT. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO HONDA SAFETY RECALL CONCERNING IGNITION INTERLOCK SYSTEM FAILURE. *AS THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED THE RECALL. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE COST OF REPAIRS.*JS
Electrical System2 injured
Filed Jan 31, 2019MT
DRIVERS SIDE DOOR KEY CEASED TO WORK AS STATED NUMEROUS TIMES BY OTHERS. ONLY WAY TO GET IN AND LOCK THE DOOR IS FROM PASSENGER SIDE...PLACING DRIVER IN UNSAFE AND VUNERABLE POSITION. ALSO WHEN DRIVING SLOWLY APPROX 10 MPH CAR HAS FREQUENTLY IRRACTICALLY ACCELERATED OF ITS OWN ACCORD. HAVE TO STAND ON THE BRAKES TO GET CAR TO STOP. WITH THE CAR AT A STOP, AND IN DRIVE IT WILL SELF ACCELERATE...VERY DANGEROUS!!! AS OTHERS HAVE NOTED THERE IS A SERIOUS ELECTRICAL SHORT?? AS DASH LIGHTS ARE DULL THEN AND HAVE TO HIT DASH TO GET THEM TO LIGHT UP. HEADLIGHTS ARE CONSTANTLY SURGING FROM LIMITED LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO NORMAL.
Power TrainCrash
Filed Dec 17, 2018158,425 milesMO
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA ELEMENT. UPON PLACING THE GEAR SELECTOR IN PARK AND BRIEFLY EXITING THE VEHICLE, THE GEAR INDEPENDENTLY SHIFTED FROM PARK AND ROLLED INTO REVERSE. THE CONTACT WAS ALMOST RUN OVER. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A TREE. NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT WAS SHAKEN BY THE EXPERIENCE AND RECEIVED MEDICAL TREATMENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE DRIVEN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INDICATED THAT THEY WOULD ESCALATE THE MATTER. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 158,425.
Electrical System
Filed Jul 26, 201881,178 milesVA
DEFECTIVE DASH GAUGE CONTROLS KEEP THE CAR FROM STARTING. IT'S A KNOWN DEFECT AND HONDA KNOWS IT ALSO
Air Bags
Filed May 19, 2018MD
TAKATA RECALL: I SOLD THIS VEHICLE (2003 HONDA ELEMENT) IN EARLY 2011. WHEN THE AIRBAGS WERE RECALLED, I BEGAN RECEIVING NOTICES FORM HONDA ABOUT THE RECALL. I HAVE RETURNED THE MAILINGS AND ALSO CALLED THE 800 NUMBER (AT LEAST 4 TIMES IN TOTAL), EACH TIME LETTING THEM KNOW THAT I NO LONGER OWN THE VEHICLE. I CONTINUE TO RECEIVE RECALL NOTICES, DESPITE NOTIFYING THEM THAT I AM NOT THE OWNER. THIS WOULD POINT TO THE FACT THAT THE ACTUAL OWNER OF THE CAR IS NOT RECEIVING NOTICES. IF HONDA IS NOT ACCURATELY UPDATING THEIR DATABASE, OWNERS AT RISK FROM THIS RECALL MAY BE OBLIVIOUS TO IT.
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 29, 2018123,000 milesPA
THE LOCK ON THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR DOES NOT WORK WITH THE KEY. THIS IS A 2003 AND A REMOTE LOCKING DEVICE WAS NOT OFFERED BY THE MANUFACTURER ACCORDING TO THE LOCAL DEALER. THIS PROBLEM THAT HAS BEEN GETTING PROGRESSIVELY WORSE SINCE WE OWN THIS VEHICLE DATING BACK TO 10/2015. THE ABILITY TO RELIABLY LOCK AND UNLOCK YOUR VEHICLE IS A FUNDAMENTAL COMPONENT TO AUTOMOTIVE SAFETY
Air BagsCrashFire1 injured
Filed Jan 18, 201870,000 milesIL
I HAD A MINOR ACCIDENT AND THE AIRBAG'S POWDER, WHITE SUBSTANCE BURNED MY SKIN.
Seat Belts
Filed Oct 11, 2017MD
THE SEATBELT FOR THE DRIVER IT DOES NOT RETRACT PROPERLY AND STILL LOOSE AFTER IT BUCKLE UP ALSO THE SEATBELT LIGHT IS ON ALL THE TIME EVEN AFTER THE ENGINE IS RUNNING. THAT IS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY OR IN MOTION. I READ IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL THAT THE SEATBELT HAS A WARRANTY FOR THE LIFE OF THIS VEHICLE.
Electrical System
Filed May 11, 2017150,000 milesCO
IGNITION WILL ALLOW KEY TO BE REMOVED WHILE CAR IS IN MOTION. WAS TAKEN IN FOR RECALL ON 11/13/15 AND PROBLEM STILL PERSISTED AND NOW IGNITION SWITCH IS INOPERABLE. CONTACTED DEALER AND THEY SAID PROBLEM WAS FIXED AND NOT WILLING TO LOOK OVER IT AGAIN. WAS INSTRUCTED TO CONTACT COOPERATE NUMBER AND THEY JUST TRIED TO TALK CIRCLES AROUND ME ABOUT IT. JUST OVER A YEAR LATER AND RECALL IS WORSE.
Air Bags
Filed Apr 1, 2017DC
TAKATA RECALL SINCE RECEIVING THE FIRST RECALL NOTICE IN JUNE IF 2016, I'VE CALLED THE HONDA DEALERSHIP WHERE I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE(OURISMAN HONDA, BETHESDA MD.) - AND WHERE I HAVE IT REGULARLY SERVICED - 3 TIMES. THEY PROMISE TO CALL ME WHEN THEY CAN REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE PART, BUT HAVE YET TO CALL ME WITH A SERVICE APPOINTMENT. I'VE WAITED TEN MONTHS SINCE RECEIVING THENREVALL NOTICE, AND JUST TODAY RECEIVED A SECOND RECALL NOTICE FOR THE SAME ISSUE.
Air Bags
Filed Mar 27, 2017VA
TAKATA RECALL, RECEIVED NOTICE OF THIS RECALL IN JULY, 7 2016, MECHANICSVILLE HONDA CONTACTED AND PART WAS ORDERED 7/7/16. NEVER RECEIVED NOTICE TO RETURN TO DEALERSHIP TO REPLACED DEFECTIVE PART UNDER RECALL. RECEIVED SECOND RECALL NOTICE 3/27/17
Structure › Body
Filed Dec 11, 2016TN
I HAVE REPLACED EVERYTHING POSSIBLE THAT WOULD CONTROL THE HEADLIGHTS. AS I DRIVE OR AFTER THE CAR HEATS UP WHILE PARKED, WHETHER ON DIM OR BRIGHT THE LIGHTS DIM AND BRIGHTEN THEMSELVES CAUSING IT HARD TO SEE SOMETIMES. I MYSELF AND OTHER PEOPLE THAT HAVE TALKED ABOUT THIS ONLINE ARE HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE KEY FOB. IT STOPPED WORKING AND THEN IT STARTS WORKING AGAIN BUT THE DRIVER DOOR LOCK WONT WORK AFTER THAT. *TR
Air Bags
Filed Nov 10, 2016NY
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Electrical System
Filed Oct 2, 2016202,005 milesCA
DRIVER SIDE DOOR LOCK NO LONGER WORKING WHEN ALARM IS ACTIVATED. KEY GETS STUCK SOMETIMES IN THE LOCK. I THEN HAVE TO GO AROUND TO PASSENGER SIDE TO GET IN TO OPEN DRIVER SIDE DOOR FROM THE INSIDE.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 22, 2016KY
I RECEIVED NOTICE IN LATE JUNE 2016 REGARDING THE RECALL, AND CALLED AT THE BEGINNING OF JULY, SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT FOR JULY 13, 2016. I RECEIVED A CALL ON THE DAY OF THE APPOINTMENT FROM THE DEALER SAYING THEY DID NOT HAVE THE PARTS TO FIX THE RECALL. I WAS TOLD THEY WOULD CALL ME BACK WHEN PARTS WERE AVAILABLE. I CALLED IN AUGUST AND AGAIN ON SEPTEMBER 22, 2016 AND I RECEIVED THE SAME RESPONSE. ON THE RECALL IT SUGGESTS FOR NO ONE TO RIDE IN THE PASSENGER'S SEAT UNTIL THE AIR BAG IS REPLACED. I FEEL THAT WE ARE APPROACHING 90 DAYS WITH NO RESOLUTION IS A BIT TOO LONG.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 13, 2016NY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA ELEMENT. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART FOR THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED ANY FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Complaints 1-50 of 424, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the Element years to avoid: owners filed 424 complaints, 3.6 times as many as a typical Element year. The most common complaint is about the visibility (53%).
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Honda Element?
The visibility: 223 of the 424 complaints (53%) are about it. The typical report comes at 9,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2003 Honda Element have?
12 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jun 27, 2019. The largest, 15V320000, covered 6,281,043 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2003 Honda Element problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 24,000 miles. For the visibility the midpoint is 9,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2003 Honda Element?
Yes, 4 times. The latest, EA21002 ("Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture"), was opened Sep 17, 2021 and is still open. 2 investigations are open.
Are there service bulletins for the 2003 Honda Element?
The manufacturer filed 172 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the airbags (65), the engine (21) and the transmission (17). They include a warranty extension, A18-051, filed Jun 30, 2026. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Jun 27, 2019. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.