2007 Honda Element Problems – What I’ve Learned From Real Ownership Experience

The Honda Element is affectionately known as the “toaster on wheels.” It is a weird, wonderful, and incredibly practical machine. If you are looking at a 2007 model, you are looking at one of the best years they made.

I have spent plenty of time under the hood of Hondas. I have also spent time driving them until the odometer rolls over. I love the Element. But, like any older car, it is not perfect.

It has quirks. It has specific weak spots.

Understanding these 2007 Honda Element problems is vital. It saves you money. It saves you from getting stranded. It helps you buy a gem instead of a headache.

Here is the real scoop on what breaks, how to fix it, and why this boxy SUV is still worth the trouble.

Is the 2007 Honda Element Reliable Overall?

Short Answer: Yes, absolutely.

The 2007 model is often considered the “sweet spot” for the Element. It got a slight power bump and a better automatic transmission (5-speed) compared to earlier years.

Think of the Element like a reliable old work boot. It might look a bit scuffed, but the stitching holds tight.

It is built on the Honda CR-V platform. This means it shares parts with one of the most reliable cars ever made. I have seen these cars hit 300,000 miles with just basic oil changes.

However, “reliable” doesn’t mean “invincible.”

This car is best for:

• Dog owners (easy to clean).
• Campers (seats fold flat).
• DIY mechanics (lots of room to work).

If you want a silent, luxury ride, look elsewhere. If you want a tank, keep reading.

Most Common 2007 Honda Element Problems (From Real-World Experience)

Here are the specific issues I see pop up the most. These aren’t guesses. These are the things that actually break.

1. Rear Differential Noise (AWD Models)

If you test drive an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Element, do this: Find an empty parking lot. Turn the steering wheel all the way to one side. Drive in a tight circle.

Do you hear a groaning or grinding sound?

It sounds like two rocks rubbing together. Or maybe a dying cow.

The Cause: The rear differential fluid is old. That’s it.

My Experience: I bought an Element once that the seller thought had a broken transmission. He sold it cheap. The noise was terrible. I spent $20 on two bottles of Honda “Dual Pump Fluid II.” I changed the fluid in 15 minutes. The noise vanished instantly.

The Fix: Drain and fill the rear differential fluid. It is a very cheap fix.

2. VTEC Solenoid and Oil Pressure Sensor Leaks

The 2.4L engine (the K24) is a masterpiece. But it likes to mark its territory as it ages.

The Symptoms:

• You smell burning oil when stopped at a light.
• You see a small puddle under the passenger side of the engine.
• The “Check Engine” light pops on.

What Happens: The rubber gasket on the VTEC solenoid gets hard and brittle. It stops sealing. Oil drips onto the hot exhaust. That creates the smell.

Real Talk: Don’t ignore this. If the oil gets too low, the timing chain can stretch. That is a very expensive repair. Replacing the gasket is easy and cheap.

3. Suspension Wear and Clunking Noises

The Element is a heavy box. It catches a lot of wind. It drives like a tall wagon. This puts stress on the suspension.

Common Symptoms:

• Clunking noises over bumps.
• The steering feels “loose.”

The Culprits:

• Sway Bar End Links: These fail constantly. They are cheap to swap.
• Control Arm Bushings: The rubber cracks over time.
• Struts: By 100,000 miles, the factory struts are usually toast.

One owner told me, “I thought my wheels were falling off. It was just a $30 sway bar link.”

4. Clutch Failure (Manual Transmission Models)

The manual Element is rare and fun. But the clutch system has a weak point.

The Issue: It usually isn’t the clutch disc itself that fails first. It is often the clutch master cylinder.

Signs:

• The pedal feels squishy.
• It is hard to shift into gear.
• You see fluid leaking near the clutch pedal inside the car.

My Advice: If the pedal feels weird, check the fluid reservoir. If it’s low, you have a leak. Fix it fast before you ruin the actual clutch.

5. Air Conditioning System Failures

The Element has a lot of glass. It acts like a greenhouse. You need the AC to work.

The Problem: The AC condenser sits very low in the front bumper. It is wide open to rocks.

What Happens: A rock hits the condenser. It pokes a hole. The refrigerant leaks out. No more cold air.

The Fix: You have to replace the condenser. Many owners install a mesh grille guard to protect the new one. It is a smart $10 upgrade.

6. Door Lock Actuator Failures

This is a classic Honda annoyance.

The Symptom: You hit the key fob to lock the doors. The driver’s door locks, but the passenger door doesn’t. Or, you hear a “machine gun” buzzing sound.

The Reality: It is not a safety risk, but it is annoying. You have to lock the door manually.

DIY Potential: You can fix this yourself. But, you have to take the door panel off. It takes patience and small hands.

Problems That Show Up After 150,000 Miles

If you are looking at a high-mileage Element, watch for these.

• Engine Mounts: The rubber tears. The car will vibrate badly when you are stopped at a red light.
• Starter Motor: The starter is buried under the intake manifold. It is a pain to reach. When it dies, it dies suddenly.
• Rust (The Big One): If you live in the “Salt Belt” (North/Northeast US), check the rear trailing arm mounts. This is where the rear suspension connects to the body. If this is rusted through, the car is unsafe. Walk away.

Are These Deal-Breakers? My Honest Take

No.

Except for major structural rust, none of these are deal-breakers.

Every car has issues. The 2007 Honda Element problems are mostly “bolt-on” repairs. You don’t usually need to tear apart the engine. You just replace a sensor, a gasket, or a fluid.

Most owners love these cars despite the flaws. They are willing to fix a lock actuator to keep the utility of the car.

Verdict: If you can turn a wrench, this car is a dream. If you rely entirely on mechanics, just budget about $500 a year for little fixes.

What I Check Before Buying a Used 2007 Honda Element

Do not hand over cash until you check these three things.

1. The “Toaster” Inspection Checklist:

• Look Underneath: Check that rear suspension mount for rust. Poke it with a screwdriver. It should be solid metal, not crunchy flakes.
• The Tight Turn Test: Do the circle test in the parking lot to check the rear differential.
• The Idle Check: Sit in the car with the AC on. Does the car shake violently? If yes, it needs motor mounts.

2. Ask the Seller:

• “When were the valves last adjusted?” (Honda recommends this every 110k miles. If they don’t know, you’ll need to do it).
• “Have the Takata airbags been recalled/replaced?” (This is a free safety fix at the dealer).

Maintenance Tips to Avoid Common 2007 Honda Element Problems

Want your Element to last forever? Do this.

• Change the Oil: Do it every 5,000 miles. The K24 engine loves clean oil.
• Differential Fluid: Change it every 30,000 miles. Only use Honda Dual Pump Fluid II. Do not use generic gear oil.
• Transmission Fluid: Drain and fill every 30,000 miles. Use Honda DW-1 fluid.
• Valve Adjustment: Do this every 100k-110k miles. It keeps the engine quiet and efficient.

Pros and Cons of the 2007 Honda Element

Here is the quick breakdown to help you decide.

Pros

• Huge Interior: You can fit a bike inside without taking the wheels off.
• Reliable Engine: The engine is nearly bulletproof.
• Resale Value: These cars hold their value incredibly well.
• Fun Factor: It has a unique personality.

Cons

• Gas Mileage: It is a brick. Expect 20-24 MPG.
• Road Noise: It is loud on the highway.
• Blind Spots: The pillars are thick.
• Only 4 Seats: It is not a 5-seater.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the biggest 2007 Honda Element problems?

The most frequent issues are rear differential noise (easy fix), oil leaks from the VTEC solenoid, and worn-out suspension bushings. Rust is the biggest concern in snowy climates.

How long will a 2007 Honda Element last?

With proper maintenance, a 2007 Element can easily pass 300,000 miles. The engine and transmission are very durable. Rust is usually what kills them, not mechanical failure.

Is the 2007 Honda Element expensive to repair?

No. It shares many parts with the Honda CR-V and Civic. Parts are cheap and widely available. It is also very easy to work on, which saves on labor costs.

Should I buy a 2007 Honda Element in 2025?

Yes, if you need utility. It is becoming a modern classic. Just be sure to get a pre-purchase inspection to check for rust and neglected maintenance.

Final Thoughts – Would I Still Recommend the 2007 Honda Element?

I absolutely would.

The 2007 Honda Element is not just a car; it is a tool. It is a mobile base camp. It is a moving van.

Sure, it has wind noise. Yes, the door locks might get sticky. But there is nothing else on the road quite like it. It has character.

If you find a rust-free 2007 model, you are finding a vehicle that will serve you loyally for years. Just keep fresh fluid in that rear differential, and enjoy the ride.