I just purchased a 4WD EX. I noticed that, other than the window sticker (showing price etc) there is no marking whatsoever to designate a 4WD from a 2WD EX. You can not tell a 4WD from a 2WD by any different controls or markings inside the car either. And you certainly cannot tell one from the other in a test drive. As time goes on, and used Elements become available, how will someone know which is a 2WD and which is a 4WD model?

Only the 4WD models have a skylight.

eMass: Thank you very much for the quick response. This is information which is not common knowledge and might prove to be very valuable to future buyers of second hand Elements.

By the way, I was very pleased with the sales staff of Ron Bouchard's in MA. I have known some of their service people for years, but this was my first dealings with the sales staff. All worked out very nicely.

Yeah - overall I was pleased with them too - I bought a 2001 full size Mitsu Montero Limited from them new just a couple of years ago and they gave me a much higher trade-in credit than any other dealer supposedly because I bought the vehicle from them and was a returning customer.

I guess it really does pay to be loyal. :D

Who did you deal with? I had Shawn Lessig who was a very nice guy and seems to be handling most of the Element sales.

I too delt with Shawn. He worked very well with me also. I was pleased. Traded in a 1989 Mitsubishi Montero (under the old Dodge Raider name) with 160,000 miles, so I did not have too much to work with. Shawn was very responsive and good to deal with. The only part I am still waiting for is the ash tray.

One extra note: I find it hard to believe that Honda designed the fitment of the accessory plug so a push in cigarette lighter will not fit. Honda even makes a point of saying this in the owners manual. Just more BS about everyone being so politically correct. The car has 5 cup holders, which will fit beer cans, but God forbid anyone smokes.

[quote:b26c6588e4="jayharley"]I too delt with Shawn. He worked very well with me also. I was pleased. Traded in a 1989 Mitsubishi Montero (under the old Dodge Raider name) with 160,000 miles, so I did not have too much to work with. Shawn was very responsive and good to deal with. The only part I am still waiting for is the ash tray.

One extra note: I find it hard to believe that Honda designed the fitment of the accessory plug so a push in cigarette lighter will not fit. Honda even makes a point of saying this in the owners manual. Just more BS about everyone being so politically correct. The car has 5 cup holders, which will fit beer cans, but God forbid anyone smokes.[/quote:b26c6588e4]

Jay - I hear ya and if I was presented with the same smoking related issues 6 months ago (before I finally quit), I probably would not have bought the Element on principal alone. The absence of lighters and ashtrays in cars are just more examples of how it's almost becoming impossible to smoke. That's part of the reason why I quit. :D

I gotta tell you though - If someone told me that I could smoke for the rest of my life without consequence - I'd be buying a CARTON of Camel Lights right this minute.

Ok, now I'm having a nic-fit. :shock:

Take care. :lol:

I feel so foolish with my original post starting this tread. All you have to do is look under an Element and look for the driveshaft to the rear, to tell if it 4WD.

I know this sounds dumb and I have had my SOP EX AWD 5 speed now for over a month. How can you tell that it even has AWD ? All I know is what the sales sticker says it is, but physically I cannot tell the difference. Does anything underneath look different from the front wheel drive. I know the Jeep Wrangler I own has a front and rear differential. Don't see it on this one...... it's gotta be there :shock: No idiot lights come on when the AWD engages ! HOW DO YOU KNOW FOR HEAVENS SAKE ( unless it snows or I search for a mud pit. ) :roll: I don't see anything in the manual and I can't tell when I drive it.......even after the front wheels spin and supposedly the AWD kicks in. I have owned 3 four wheel drive vehicles over the last 20 years and this one has me stumped. Can anyone tell me what I should look for to be able to prove it's really exists.

LittleDogBox
Arlington, Va.

Don't feel bad, it's pretty well hidden on this one! Slide under the rear of the vehicle and you will be able to find the rear differential way up high in the rear suspension, and you'll see the halfshafts going out to the rear hubs.

You can also see the drive shaft and carrier bearing running along the midline of the vehicle if you'll look under the vehicle from either side from a point just aft of the front tires. If you open the hood, lean inward, and look aft of the exhaust manifold, you can see the power takeoff from the tranny and the first U-joint on the drive shaft. Turn to page 233 of the Element Owner's Manual, and you'll see a picture of the rear diff.

AWD EX & DX comes with rear sunroof standard. This option is currently not offered on DX & EX 2 wheel drive models.

Boy, this one's right up my top-Q's alley! Why on earth didn't Honda at least put a little diode in the dash to indicate at least the pretense of 4/AWD? No markings on the outside, no markings on the interior, and no obvious markings under the hood. Until reading this thread, I'd been resigned to taking the dealer's word for it and the uncausal, "there's a moonroof ... it's gotta be the 4/AWD!" THis weekend I'll get dirty and see for myself.

BTW, H and A accessorries offers a red 4WD emblem (also DX, LX, and EX ones), I think they want you to think it's a Honda sanctioned part. My dealer says it's not.

It isn't "a Honda sanctioned part"............for the Element. It is, however, standard issue on the Passport aka: Isuzu Rodeo.

[quote:ee682efc12=" "]BTW, H and A accessorries offers a red 4WD emblem (also DX, LX, and EX ones), I think they want you to think it's a Honda sanctioned part. My dealer says it's not.[/quote:ee682efc12]

Drive in wet weather, trust me, you'll know the difference.

I got the 4/AWD for the snow (we get lots and I drive in lots in other places) ... what's it do in plain water?

because i went to my dealer and got the "Real Time 4WD" sticker from the CR-V back window. they had them in stock, and it applied easily. I just put it in the left corner of the rear window like the CR-V .
looks nice. and wasnt expensive at all.

best,
D.

Little Dogbox - have you ever seen that movie about the space program with OJ Simpson - "Capricorn One?" The Element uses the same principle for it's all wheel drive system (it's all done in the studio with special effects).

All you have to do is look at the VIN (vehicle identification number). The models are coded into the number like so:

5J6YH18583L019779

The three numbers after "YH" have the information -

First number is drivetrain. 1 is FWD, 2 is AWD.
Second is transmission. 7 is 5-speed, 8 is automatic.
Third is trim. 2 is DX, 5 is EX and 6 is EX with side airbags.

So a "YH185" is an EX with FWD and automatic transmission. Anything with "YH2" is going to be AWD.

AAAHHH! Here is a TYPE FONT STYLE GONE CRAZY!! With Honda, The 4 in 4WD looks like an A so people think that they have an ALL WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE which is something different than a 4 Wheel drive vehicle. The Element has 4 Wheel Drive and to my knowledge that means that when engaged, still only two tires drive the vehicle, one in the front and one in the rear. With an ALL WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE, all 4 wheels drive the vehicle and add for way better traction and control, like in Subarus! If this is incorrect, please someone set me straight!! :P

I think you kind of have it backwards. In general, 4wd means that equal power is constantly sent to the front and rear differentials through a transfer case, All Wheel Drive usaually indicates power is dynamically distributed to the axle that needs traction through a viscous coupling, electronic control or clutches.

Neither system actually drives all four wheels, each differential will send power to the wheel with the least traction, this is pretty dynamic so over a short amount of time power is being sent back and forth to both wheels on the axle. Unless there is a total loss of traction, they are, for most purposes, "four wheel drive." I consider the "real time 4wd," to be an all wheel drive system

The only vehicles that have true 4wd are those which send power to front and rear locking differentials, these locking differentials will send equal power to both wheels on the axle regardless of traction. This is good for slow off road driving but bad for rain, snow, general on road conditions, as whenever you turn a corner the inside wheel would be binding up, or working to make your car spin around. An example of one of these vehicles are the 93-97 Landcruisers with front and rear differential lock option, or the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. These vehicles only allow diff. locks to engage at slow speed and are not intended for the road.

why doesnt honda then call it "Real Time AWD" (although my stickie could be read as such) ;) actually it should be marketed as such ..

just a curiosity
D.

I wondered that myself, it probably sounded better, and there is no true definition for those things, marketing probably made the decision. :)

Hey, Thanks for setting me straight on the 4WD!! You seem to know a great deal on the subject!! :oops:

[quote:65ab6a4435=" "]Boy, this one's right up my top-Q's alley! Why on earth didn't Honda at least put a little diode in the dash to indicate at least the pretense of 4/AWD? No markings on the outside, no markings on the interior, and no obvious markings under the hood. Until reading this thread, I'd been resigned to taking the dealer's word for it and the uncausal, "there's a moonroof ... it's gotta be the 4/AWD!" THis weekend I'll get dirty and see for myself.

BTW, H and A accessorries offers a red 4WD emblem (also DX, LX, and EX ones), I think they want you to think it's a Honda sanctioned part. My dealer says it's not.[/quote:65ab6a4435]

From my friend in Japan (JDM Elements) : they identify their's with sticker mounted on the outside of the rear glass just above the Element logo which is 1-1/16" x 6-7/8" and reads " REALTIME AWD" . It is a Honda part # 75722-S10-A01. I don't know how long this exterior sticker will hold up, nor do I know if Honda USA Dealers can order these, since he sent me one from Japland.

from my dealer's parts dept. it cost roughly 5.00 . ask for the "realtime 4wd sticker" that is on the back glass of the CR-V. :D had mine on since october, so far its def handled the winter cold. the rain and roadsalt with no trouble.

best of luck
D.

You can certainly feel the AWD kicking in if you're hoofing up a steep grade. I'm anxious to get a first-hand feel for how the E does with wintery road conditions. Last winter was so mild here that we never had any ice or snow to go play in, so I'm holding out hope for a smidge of nasty weather later this month or next.

And while on that topic, I think the DPS troopers should offer an impromptu winter road handling training session when bad weather first hits. Apparently going to the mall parking lot to do doughnuts after hours is no longer tolerated... so how else ya gonna work out your slippery road driving skills if you live in a region where it only happens 2 or 3 times in a year? :P

[quote:d3bcf9e584=" "]And while on that topic, I think the DPS troopers should offer an impromptu winter road handling training session when bad weather first hits. Apparently going to the mall parking lot to do doughnuts after hours is no longer tolerated... so how else ya gonna work out your slippery road driving skills if you live in a region where it only happens 2 or 3 times in a year? :P[/quote:d3bcf9e584]

Tell the truth, now. They were okay with you doing doughnuts, but when you set up the cones and started running an autocross, THEN they broke it up, right? Hee hee! :wink:

Bill

Is there anything to identify that an Element has AWD? Meaning logo or markings?

Try checking the VIN or look under it and see if there is a rear differential of any sort on it.

Look at the VIN - if the first 6 characters are "5J6YH1" You got a 2WD if the first 6 are "5J6YH2" you got a 4WD

From Element-j's website:

http://www.govst.edu/users/gallery/element-j/images/vin_decoder.gif

-CRC

...is to check for the back sunroof.


If it's got a sunroof, it's an AWD, if not, it's a FWD....

You guys rock!!!

The simple way helps for quick identification, but it is VERY helpful to identify the VIN.

OK, now WE all know how to ID a 4WD Element, after many of us...ok, me too, had that heart stopping moment of driving the car home and wondering if we got such a good deal because we just bought a 2WD instead of a 4WD since there is nothing SAYING or indicating its 4WD.....
(where's my old transfer case lever!!??? :) )

Someone got me thinking, by pointing out there are times when the rest of the world should maybe know you have 4WD in a car that is not an obvious offroader. Like if its being towed (heaven forbid) or it might be nice in my washington state locale if the troopers can tell if at a glance that you don't need chains on a bad day in the snowy mountains.

I bought one of those ink-jet printable static sticker stock for windows, made up my own custom "real time 4WD" sticker and put in inside of the back window. It is white gesso backed(after spraying it with a fixative) to protect it and make it stand out better on the dark window. Its subtle but there. And I find out that not many people even realize the Element is AVAILABLE in 4WD, having it there.

And I found out you can't stop at just one make-it-yourself window sticker on a "personality" vehicle like this. Nice thing is you can swap them out depending on mood, with the static cling material. (About $10 for 6 sheets at any computer or office supply store. jest fer fun.... 8)

I have a 2003 EX, bought in July. My question: Does it really have 4wd? Does anything visible distinguish Elements with 4wd from those without? Do all EX's have 4wd?
Mine has the detachable sun roof, supposedly offered only on 4wd vehicles. But this winter, when starting from a stop on an icy upgrade, the front wheels would spin slightly, and the rear wheels never did. And I sure can't see evidence that the rear wheels are powered.

Detachable sunroof is usually the clue that it is 4WD

You can look underneath the car for the large shaft from the front to the rear transmission, the 2WD has neither.

Note that the "RTAWD" system allows for a little bit of spin before it kicks in the rear. It's more of a "kick in the pants" system. :)

-brendan

It'll be quite obvious if you have 4WD. Just look for a pumpkin on the back axle. There will be a driveshaft coming from the transfer case near the transmission of the vehicle that goes to the back two tires.

Just because your tires slipped doesn't mean you don't have 4WD. 18 wheelers still skid on ice, because it's ice. Make sure your tires are not over-inflated either. Nine times out of 10, people complaining about skidding don't take care of their tires. ;)

I am sure this has been asked and answered But I can not find it using the search function. Driving in snow country a few times a year, we have needed chains or AWD. How do you show you have AWD, can you tell by looking at the drivetrain under the car. The CR-V has a nice decal. This is my first AWD vehicle and I can't wait to try out the AWD, no rain in San Jose is due till oct., guess I will try to get down to Pismo, and try the sand. Happy new owner of My new E--710 miles...:wink:

I ordered the decal for the CRV from my dealer...put it right under the rear wiper in the center of the back window. Looks stock and the state troopers didn't question me when I said my E was AWD, they looked at the decal and let me pass...

Jesse

BTW - Welcome!!!! :wink:

Not aware of any insignia or monograms that indicate Real Time 4WD. However, I believe, If you see an E. with rear skylight, it is a 4WD. That is the only indication I know of. Incidentally, I noticed that unlike the Accord and other HONDAs, There isn't an insignia telling the package of the car. Ie EXS, EX, LX, DX. I wonder why they didn't put such emblems on the car. Also, unlike other cars that I or my family have bought, NO Dealer sticker was applied to my car. I forgot to specify that to the dealer when I bought so I thought I was going to have one. Last time I bought a new car I said, you may put on license frames but NO STICKERS. I was surprised that my dealer didn't put one on this time. The other time when I made the specification I got a sticker anyways and had to have them remove it.

WmAS1960 (Bill)

Thank you SeattleE, I will have to order one from dealer..Wmas1960, check the back windows of the CR-V's and you will see decal on a good number of them. We have mountains checkpoints during heavy snow, and like SeattleE said, the trooper will not let you pass without chains or AWD. I am not very mechanical person, but I would guess the trooper could get on his hands and knees and check the drivetrain, or maybe not....[/i]

It is not hard to see the rear differential and drive shafts going to the rear wheels. Whether the state trooper would be willing to look is another question. If I had my digital camera along, I could take a picture of the differential without either of us kneeling in the snow. But if he needed that kind of proof, a decal that anyone could buy wouldn't be convincing either. You could also cart along some chains. Who knows, they might come in handy even if you have RT4WD and a sticker to prove it :)

paulj

I looked on hondcars.com and yep the sunroof is onthe 4wd not the 2wd.

EX adds over the LX:
ABS brakes.
Cruise Control.
Keyless Entry/Remote (optional on lx)
vanity mirror
map lights
seatback storage
power side mirrors.

interesting what they added to the '04 EX vs the '03 EX, the seatback bungees & keyless remote was not standard on the '03.

as far as badging to show what level and awd.. eh i don't need that, never really cared, but it is interesting they don't include that anymore.

Actually the DX has 2 large (16" diameter) labels on each side :) If you know what to look for this special edition is quite easy to identify.

paulj

[quote:236922b569=" "]Actually the DX has 2 large (16" diameter) labels on each side :) If you know what to look for this special edition is quite easy to identify.

paulj[/quote:236922b569]
do you have a DX can you share an image??
i still would prefer my EX over the DX, had what I wanted.. but that is interesting.. hummm

Actually the DX has 2 large (16" diameter) labels on each side If you know what to look for this special edition is quite easy to identify.

paulj


That was great! Wonder how few "get it"? Some wanna see the pics to prove it! :lol:

I got a 4WD emblem from the Passport on the back of my Element. It looks pretty good there. I will get some pics up the next time I am out with my camera. I put it level with the Element emblem on the right side.

Actually the DX has 2 large (16" diameter) labels on each side....

http://www.hondaelement.org/attachment.php?s=&postid=35628

They are color coordinated to boot :) . My avatar is an EX image modified to match.

paulj

can you give a close up of it.. i don't see anything in that image.. but nice pix of your E!

Hey Tina, hint for ya...

look lower, and there are two on each side...

Jesse

GYPSYTDA I believe they are referring to the stock steel wheels :wink: .

[quote:b362dec778=" "]GYPSYTDA I believe they are referring to the stock steel wheels :wink: .[/quote:b362dec778]ah ha, thank you.. i will crawl under the sofa and die now.. :lol:

Chinlo "You can't stop the LAKERS!!!!!"

The Pistons may not be able to stop Shaq or Kobe, but Malone needs a walker and a seeing eye dog to show him the basket,and Payton and the rest had better get in the game or It will time to get out the brooms...(':lol:')

H-and-A has some 4WD emblems that you can put on your E and they have some nice pics of it over at their site (scroll DOWN the page):

http://www.handa-accessories.com/elementext.html

If you get anything over there, be sure to tell Trevor that T Mac sent you! ;)

Thanks T Mac, I will check it out

those are nice, but they would suck on the SOP

i got a silver AWD metal applique off ebay.

[quote:80d5ce4963=" "]those are nice, but they would suck on the SOP

i got a silver AWD metal applique off ebay.[/quote:80d5ce4963]

Oh that's a good tip! I was wondering about the red blending in to the SOP - silver would take care of that problem! :) Thanks!

I have the AWD element. Is there suppose to be some sort of badgin on the body that says AWD?

No badge except for whatever you buy and stick on. H and A has a 4WD badge http://www.handaaccessories.com/viewer.html?pic=element/element4wdemb.jpg
and there is also a "Real Time AWD" badge available (from the CRV as I recall).

No badge except for whatever you buy and stick on.
I disagree the AWD does have a tell-tale "badge" that distinguishes it from a 2WD.

It is called the sunroof.

There's this.... (http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/ProductDisplay/s-10101/p-7429/c-10101)

Too bad it's so darn small though. :roll: :shock:

Sorry, that 4x4 sticker is way to WT-looking. It fits right at home on a S-10 or Ranger.. but not an element.

It fits right at home on a S-10 or Ranger..
Yep, right next to the huge NASCAR stickers.

Seriously though, I bought the OEM CRV "realtime awd" sticker from majestic honda, but it just didn't look right anywhere I held it up. The best was centered under the wiper, but I still didn't like it and peeled it off immediately. My E stays sleek for now.

i like mine

nice to have incase they decide to tow you!

if u have a sunroof then u have awd... i want that h&A awd stcker

I looked on the sales sticker stuck on the window at the dealership.
They wouldn't charge me for something that wasn't actually on the vehicle, would they? :-o

biocube,

where did you get the eagle badge? I thought those were only on E's exported outside of North America?

biocube,

where did you get the eagle badge? I thought those were only on E's exported outside of North America?

what about that silver, italicized 'AWD' badge? that one looks worthy enough to put on my E!

How about a wallet photo of the rt4wd unit and rear drive shaft?

I looked on the sales sticker stuck on the window at the dealership.
They wouldn't charge me for something that wasn't actually on the vehicle, would they? :-o

I'm sure if it's on the window sticker, you're safe. LOL! You haven't looked underneath it yet?

:roll:

If you are serious about using the AWD, add this bumper sticker
http://www.4x4books.com/images/bsrmo.jpg

Great Paulj!

(At first I thought it was advice for old married couples?!? :roll:)

Sorry, that 4x4 sticker is way to WT-looking. It fits right at home on a S-10 or Ranger.. but not an element.

Even worse is that I think it is the badge from the Passport. To me, any badge from a "Honda" that wasn't really a Honda is worse than having no badge at all :)

I have nothing wrong with Isuzu...I just don't think Honda should have ever stuck their badge on a non-Honda product. The Passport was bad, but that Acura SLX was worse. :)

the eagle mark/badge story is here:
http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9242&highlight=eagle+badge

the eagle is put on the elements that are shipped to japan, and 15 elements of the EOC in north america.


the AWD badge i got off ebay (i think it was originally for a FORD!!!) but i like the typeface and the size is perfect. i think i got it for $2+$3 shipping.

Is there another way to tell if my element is awd besides the window sticker? I cannot find mine! Thanks Barry :shock:

My first reaction to your question was "Use the search!" because we've talked about it a zillion times here... but you know what? You can't search with just "AWD"!

There are three quick ways to tell. The VIN (serial number) contains a code for AWD. It is the sixth character, after the '5J6YH'. If it is a "2" then you have AWD. If it is a "1" then you have FWD.

Second way is to look underneath. The AWD version will have axles and a small differential between the rear wheels, and a small driveshaft going to the front. The FWD version doesn't have any of that.

The third... a "D'oh!"... is the factory sunroof. Sunroof = AWD, no sunroof = 2WD. Elements are offered with those combinations only, and none have been made which conflict with that.

Thanks for the info,I had read somewhere about the sunroof but I thought they were kidding! Barry :shock:

My concern is that you purchased a car w/out asking/knowing that information when you handed over the check....

My concern is that you purchased a car w/out asking/knowing that information when you handed over the check....

X2 on that. :-o

My first post on here and you guys beat me up! Hope all element owners are not as anal as you guys! :confused:

Welcome to the EOC!

We're just curious, I suppose. Many would feel that it's a significant point to not be certain about. Please take no offense. :)

Personally, after reading your first post, I inferred that you asked for and paid for the AWD, but just wanted to know the best way to confirm that you got what you paid for. An honest question, since without explicit knowlege of the things Mike mentioned, you would otherwise have no easy way of knowing, short of crawling underneath.

:)

My first post on here and you guys beat me up! Hope all element owners are not as anal as you guys! :confused:

Not at all... we all mean it in fun, so don't take us too seriously. :)

Welcome to EOC... and Enjoy your 4WD!!

By the way, here's a pic of the '05 which has a 4WD decal (finally!).

Peace!

LEGO

I like that decal better than the accessory 4wd emblem. I'll have to bother my dealer about gettin' one.

By the way, here's a pic of the '05 which has a 4WD decal (finally!). I'll have to bother my dealer about gettin' one.I just got off the phone with my dealer. That sticker is available for purchase at the parts departments and the Honda part number is: 75722-S10-A01. The price is $12.48 + applicable state sales tax.

Do you have to present a proof of AWD to buy this sticker, or can any ricer buy one and splap it on rear window of their Civic? :)

paulj

I think anyone can buy it. The dealer won't care if you even own an element. They want the money.

I bought mine from Majestic (http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/jsp/mws/prddisplay.jsp?inputstate=5&catcgry1=CR-V&catcgry2=2003&catcgry3=5DR+LX+4WD+SRS&catcgry4=KA4AT&catcgry5=EMBLEM-CAUTION+LABEL).

But... then decided I didn't like it and took it off. :)

I just got off the phone with my dealer. That sticker is available for purchase at the parts departments and the Honda part number is: 75722-S10-A01. The price is $12.48 + applicable state sales tax.

Honda ought to give the "friggin" sticker to anyone who purchased an Element at their dealership for heavens sake. Thats a lot of $$$$$ for a sticker that should have come on the very first AWD Element to roll off the assembly line.

LittleDogBox
Arlington, Va.

I'd prefer a 4wd sticker that was a bit more tongue-in-cheek :) One that was consistent with the Element's 'go ahead an under estimate my capabilities, I don't care' kind of attitude.

paulj

yeah get one of those FX4 Stickers off of those ford Dangers ( rangers)

I just bought my "Realtime 4WD" decal today (the exact one that the 05 has)! Like 9 bucks from my dealer (plus tax), and I paid a couple of dollars to have it shipped direct to my home. Can't wait!! :)

By the way, I absolutely LOVE the look of the 05 silver w/ blue panels. The brochure doesn't do it justice... you need to see it up close. Still though, my dealer confirmed that there is no difference between the 04 and 05 except the colors and decal. I heard rumor that Honda will be changing the design of the "E" next year though.

am I in all wheel drive at all?

A backroads guidebook suggests adjusting the rear view mirrors so you can see what the rear wheels are doing. I found that my (manual DX) left mirror can be adjusted so I can see that wheel, but the right doesn't help.

am I in all wheel drive at all?

A backroads guidebook suggests adjusting the rear view mirrors so you can see what the rear wheels are doing. I found that my (manual DX) left mirror can be adjusted so I can see that wheel, but the right doesn't help.

Of course, watching your rear tires in excess can also cause one to get stuck! :P

am I in all wheel drive at all?

A backroads guidebook suggests adjusting the rear view mirrors so you can see what the rear wheels are doing. I found that my (manual DX) left mirror can be adjusted so I can see that wheel, but the right doesn't help.


Why would you drive like that? :?

If you're doing it to see the rear tire spinning, it probably ain't gonna happen in this particular type of AWD system unless your totally stuck.

If you're really curious, find another E that's 2wd and have a little contest.

The one who gets stuck first is either the two wheel drive, or the guy driving while looking at his left rear tire in the side view mirror.
:razz:

PaulJ,

I didn't think you could get a DX with AWD. Am I missing something here?

In the early days you couldn't get the manual transmission with AWD, but the EX/DX difference has always been independent of 2wd/awd. The DX/EX differences are mostly superficial - radio (but still wiring), AC, ABS, power mirrors, etc. Mine has a build date around May 2003.

paulj

Ok, I guess I had it screwed up in my head that way. I am used to earlier hondas and the EX always including a sunroof (which my wife's Passport EX didn't, but it was made by Isuzu anyway).

schiesz

I'm still mulling over either FWD or AWD. I have driven FWD all my life in NE so I am used to how they handle. My concern is that everybody says the FWD E is more unstable in inclement weather and to get the AWD. Is it the tires, the weight distribution, what?? I know that my wifes's PT Cruiser(piece of junk and now she has the Rav4) was horrible in the snow for being FWD. So now I'm curious as to why some cars are beter in the snow than others with FWD and which is better for the E. Apology in advance but which member purchaced from Majestic? The Majestic in R.I. I'm assuming and if it is what kind of price did you get and who did you talk to?

Thanks!

When talking about fwd v awd, it is worth distinguishing between starting advantages and rolling advantages.

If you try to start on a slippery surface, and the front wheels spin, the rear ones on the awd can kick in, getting you going.

It is less obvious what awd does for you when you are already rolling, say for example, if you hit a water puddle by the side of the road, or a patch of ice. I never have noticed rear traction kicking in in such a situation. Often I suspect you would have driven beyond the ice before the rt4wd unit has time to react. Even if it did react, it could do so in the wrong way or at the wrong moment, producing the kind of spin characteristic of rwd cars.

When applying the brakes, awd does not activate, so there shouldn't be any difference between the two cars.

RAV4 owners make a big deal about their full time awd (i.e. default driving all 4 wheels, not just the front 2), calling the Honda system as 'too late'. However when I drove my 97 RAV4 and Element in the same snow conditions last year (about 3" just below freezing), the Element was more stable, both on accelleration and on braking.

If you have to deal with icy hills, the awd version of the Element should be better. But in other rainy and snow weather, the 2wd should work fine, especially if you use tires appropriate to the conditions. In snowy conditions a 2wd with proper snow tires should be better than an awd with all-seasons.

Keep also in mind that in slippery conditions, you can start either car in 2nd, minimizing drive wheel spin. The Element responds best to a gettle foot on the gas. In fact if you are gentle enough with the gas, the rear wheels of awd will rarely kick in.

paulj

I realize the differences between rolling and starting advantages. I have been reading other forums where people have said that they were quite surprised at how badly the FWD E handled in bad weather. Seeing as how I grew up in N.E. with FWD vehicles all my life I couldn't quite understand why. Of course when my wife had here PT that thing sucked in bad weather. Don't know if it was the tires, weight distribution, design or what. Her Rav4 is only FWD and performs great in bad weather. While it would be nice to save some money I want to make sure that I'm making the right decision.

Maybe the problems that others have with the FWD Element in bad weather has to do with a heavy foot on the gas. It is easy enough to spin the front wheels on startup with the AWD, and possibly easier with FWD. Some claim that changing tires is the solution. I'm sure that helps, but I think modifying your driving style is more siginificant.

I don't recall specifically what problems experienced owners of FWD Elements have had. Is it primarily this startup wheel spin? hill climbing? braking? excessive understeer on curves? I wouldn't trust the comments of individuals who have only taken a FWD for a test drive.

paulj

Hey all, question just came up:
Without all ready knowing it, how can one tell the difference between an AWD or 2WD? (when not driving it)
Are there graphics? ...

AWD has the sunroof. FWD does not.

and if you cant see the sunroof from where you are look for the rear cv joints.

-tom :)

thanks for the quick replies. I have one on order and my ever cautious girlfriend asked me if I was sure the dealer was clear. I say yes, but then she asks me how will I know, thus the post. Was looking for an existing thread, didn't want to add a whole thread for a such a tidbit.
Anyhoo, thanks again.
(one week from getting my CKEX5SPDAWD...shipped from Liberty on 3/18/05!!!!) AHHHH!!

Hello folks. I jsut purchased a shoreline mist metallic '04 yesterday, and it is a beautiful car. I just sold my eurovan weekender which was a blast for camping and such with the pop top roof and all but just cost too much to maintain. Now the question is...my element was advertised as having AWD but when I looked at the options sheet I saw nothing about it and I dont have the "real time awd" sticker. I do however have a moon roof. How should I go about making sure that this vehicle is actually what I paid for?

The moon roof only comes on the all wheel drives. Honda for some reason doesn't put the realtime awd stickers on the E.

The moon roof only comes on the all wheel drives. Honda for some reason doesn't put the realtime awd stickers on the E.

That's strange... mine had one when I picked it up from the dealer. :?

Mine didn't have the "Real Time AWD" decal either. What it does have is the "Real Time 4WD" decal.:cool:

There should be a thin Realtime 4WD sticker on the bottom left edge of the back glass from the 05 model on up. 03 and 04 didn't have any 4WD markings. If the sunroof isn't enuff proof you can also peek under the vehicle (passenger side for easier viewing) and you should see the "Propellar Shaft" running front to back.
2WD models wouldn't have this.


http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/jsp/mws/catimgs/14scv0_b20.gif

Thanks guys. I did peek under the car and see the shaft. I really love the car and cant wait to get to know it better. Tonite is the big snow storm as well. I guess Ill see how it performs in those conditions soon enough!

I have a 2wd and wouldn't know, but isn't there some sort of dashlight or other indicator that shows when your awd is engaging?

I have a 2wd and wouldn't know, but isn't there some sort of dashlight or other indicator that shows when your awd is engaging?

no, there isn't any indicator light. It isn't needed.

Mine didn't have the "Real Time AWD" decal either. What it does have is the "Real Time 4WD" decal.:cool:
Pre 2005 didn't have the awd stickers. Maybe early 2005s did'nt either? I should get up off my butt and go buy one.:)

Pre 2005 didn't have the awd stickers. Maybe early 2005s did'nt either? I should get up off my butt and go buy one.:)
No year model has an AWD decal, the decal states "4WD":) Forgive me for being a smartass.

Sorry if this has been posted before (I looked beforehand I swear).
I was looking at a used DX yesterday that was advertised as 4wd, but when I asked the salesman he said it was 2wd. Frankly I'm not very savvy when it comes to these things. I have the VIN number, but I have an autocheck.com report that doesn't indicate whether the vehicle is 2wd or 4wd. There isn't any indication on the vehicle itself such as signage on the rear window or hatch that would indicate whether or not the vehicle is 2wd or realtime 4wd. I'm planning on going back tomorrow to negotiate a price and just wanted to be certain before I do what exactly it is I'm negotiating on.

Thanks for any help,
Centient

P.S. This is a Great site!

Ask the saleman how he can be sure it's 2wd. And ask him to run the vin; and if it's a Honda dealer, I'm sure a mechanic can tell very quickly. Some of the sales people are amazingly ignorant, or play dumb. My salesman couldnt start the stickshift. The clutch had to be depressed.

Often there are little things that can guide you. A domestic diesel Rabbit could be distinguished from German-made by round or rectangular headlights.

And see if you vin is in the range that includes the cracking windshield prob. common in 03s. There'r some threads here on that issue. Try the Search function.

Simple: if it has a sunroof it is AWD/4WD

If it does not, it is 2WD

From the back of the Element squat down and look underneath. If you see a large round ball of metal with two rods sticking out of it going towards each rear wheel then it is AWD.

The rear sunroof should also be a give-a-way as only AWD came with a sunroof.

Just get down, and look at the rear wheels. If it's AWD (4WD) It will have a rear differential and 2 round shafts that go from it to the center of the rear wheels.

If not It will not have the Shafts. There will be no rear Differential. That's all there is to it.

Hold on I'll go take a photo !

Ok the First one is of the AWD rear Wheel and Shaft.

The second Kinda Shows the rear Diff. Not well, but you will know if it's not there when you look at the one on the lot.

Amazing!

Thanks for all the help, and especially the pics Dom.Five. The Element does have the sunroof. Just an FYI we started out at about $13,999 (57K miles; a small Chrysler dealership) however the vehicle was incorrectly listed as having AC. I commented on this (color is black) and they dropped $1000 without blinking. So I'm going back tomorrow and will try for low to mid $11K (hopefully they're not reading this, lol) pending a mechanic inspection. I'll let you know. Wish me luck.

Many Thanks
Centient

Yes originally the DX came without AC or a Radio. Those were usually added sometimes by dealers to make the DX models a bit more appealing for those interested in the Element itself but that didn't want or want to pay for all of the EX options.

I have a DX and has A/C and no radio....ohhhh I miss my CRUISE CONTROL
:(

Rich

checking for the sunroof is the easiest way to tell if its a 4WD, but you look really cool and knowledgable if you are laying on the ground poking around under the Element, talking about lumpy things hanging down under there.

or maybe just checking for the sunroof is a better way......

Is there any sort of identification anywhere that identifies that my 2004 Element has 4WD? I have not seen any sticker or any other identification.

Is there any sort of identification anywhere that identifies that my Element has 4WD? I have not seen any sticker or any other identification.

I have a sticker on my back window that says 4WD.

The only indication is the "Real Time 4 Wheel Drive" sticker on the back. My 04 doesn't have one but if yours is newer, it should.

If you don't have one and are feeling deprived, H & A will be happy to help you out (assuming you are in the U.S.)

Welcome to the EOC. :)

Iyshsh,

Because you haven't filled out your profile, we don't know what year your Element is, but presumably it's not an '06 or '07, both of which, IIRC, have a 4WD sticker if so equipped.

For the rest of us, the badge of 4WD is the sunroof.

i have a sticker on the back window plus a sunroof :-P

the sunroof is the external marking.

the VIN is the internal marking (275/6 for 5mt, 285/6 for at)

Uh oh,

I have a new (to me) 2004 EX *with* a sunroof. Car Max sold it to me as a 2wd....

What's the deal?:confused:

Cindy & the grrlz (does this mean we can go 4 wheelin'?!?

Look under the rear of the E.

I have a new (to me) 2004 EX *with* a sunroof. Car Max sold it to me as a 2wd....

What's the deal?:confused:


Factory Honda sunroof over the rear seats ?!

Only the 4wd/AWD Elements came factory equiped w/ a sunroof.

Will

Look under the rear of the E.


What should I be looking for??

BTW, I checked my temporary title and my VIN has the 2856 the biocube mentioned.

Hmmm....

Factory Honda sunroof over the rear seats ?!
Only the 4wd/AWD Elements came factory equiped w/ a sunroof.
Will
Right! :cool:

One thing you can do as an owener is register on the Honda Owner Link. It's free and it will give you all the information on your Element or any Honda vehicle that you register on it. It's free! Did I say it's free? It's free! Put in your VIN# and a picture of your Honda will come up and al it's information and factory options and specs. Also you can enter your radio code so in case you should lose it or misplace it, you have a recovery source. They also will give you recall info, service reminders etc. It's a good source. I use it on both my Honda's and the previous Element I had before I became a two Honda household. Also this site has banner's for the Owners link that if you click on them, will beam you up to the Mothership.

dear bestdogever,

time to change your profile :D

and get one of these:

Thanks!

I had been meaning to do that. Well, it looks like I have a 4WD SSM E. Not sure if I am happy about that. Not much I can do now though.

Is there anything I should know/do because it is 4WD? I have never had one before. Do they cost more to maintain? Are there more likely to be problems? I am in FL so the improved traction in the snow is really not a big deal to me. I guess I won't have to worry about getting stuck on the beach.

Is there somewhere that I can go to read about WAD/4WD & how it works?

Sorry for so many questions, I am still a bit surprised.

Thanks!
Cindy


[QUOTE=chozn4service]One thing you can do as an owener is register on the Honda Owner Link. It's free and it will give you all the information on your Element or any Honda vehicle that you register on it. It's free! Did I say it's free? It's free! Put in your VIN# and a picture of your Honda will come up and al it's information and factory options and specs.

bestdog - I posted a thread on whether my 03's 4WD is working or not....at the end of the post I put some info on there on how the 4wd works.

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=29009

Also in the maintenance section there should be some info on maintaining it. How many miles does you E have? If it has over 60k you might want to start thinking about changing the differential fluid....make sure you get it at a honda dealer and make sure they don't charge you an arm and a leg for something that's very easy to do....other then that I don't think there's anything more you can do....just make sure no one ever tows it with the wheels down either :D

Instead of a 4WD sticker, I have been considering one of these.

CLICK! (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Honda-Element-REALTIME-TOASTER-Sticker-Decal_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ50447QQihZ004QQit emZ140066303484QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW)

:)

Factory Honda sunroof over the rear seats ?!

Only the 4wd/AWD Elements came factory equiped w/ a sunroof.

Will

As far as I know, EX comes with sunroof, either 2WD, or 4WD.
My mistake, 4WD comes with sunroof.

That was a "good one", PVR! I like to do with Elements the same as I was "taught" about LadyBugs - Hmmm...let's just flip her over and see if she's a lady or not!" :rolleyes:

And, obviously, alvin has it all backwards! (Wonder what he's really driving!?)

HELLOOOOOOO!!?

Apriliaguy's post is the gospel, and dancdtiludrop's link is the sermon. 'Nuff said.

Amen! Can I now pass the plate for tithes and offerings?:D

As far as I know, EX comes with sunroof, either 2WD, or 4WD.

Nope...sunroof is just 4WD. All trim levels.

Will

Nope...sunroof is just 4WD. All trim levels.

Will

Thats the only way I know Honda did it, at least until 05, not sure if that trend carried to 06 and 07 Es.

What should I be looking for??

BTW, I checked my temporary title and my VIN has the 2856 the biocube mentioned.

Hmmm....
For a differential....if it has one, it's AWD,,,,,if it doesn't, it's not.

the honda link site will show you a pic like this
i don't have my 2006 NICB [National Insurance Crime Bureau] book at home, but will check the VIN breakdown at work. i will give you all the specific codes for all options later.

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/3646/hondalinkhg8.jpg

Actually the only fool proof way to check is by the VIN or the drivetrain.

Especially since we dont know if it is aftermarket sunroof or not.

Ownerlink should be able to tell via VIN. However, there is a site that breaks down the decoder for the VIN...I believe it was element-j website where this could be found.

I will have time later to try and find that link.

Actually the only fool proof way to check is by the VIN or the drivetrain.

Especially since we dont know if it is aftermarket sunroof or not.

Ownerlink should be able to tell via VIN. However, there is a site that breaks down the decoder for the VIN...I believe it was element-j website where this could be found.

I will have time later to try and find that link.
www.re-vision.com/element-j

Okay,

Based on everything that has been posted here (tho' I still don't know what I would be looking for underneath the car- was that a joke?). As well as the owner link site and the element j site it looks like it is indeed a 4WD (or is it AWD?). The sunroof is the factory pop-up/out skylight over the rear cargo area. I wanted it so I could allow ventilation for my dogs when we are parked at shows & training.

As I said before, I'm not sure I'm too happy about owning a 4WD vehicle. My impression is 4WD will be more costly to maintain and not necessarily provide any benefit for me. I don't plan on driving in the snow anytime soon. I guess it will help with towing if I can ever afford the Aliner pop-up I'd like to get.

I did not buy an extended warranty from CarMax & now I may be regretting that. Seems like a lot I don't know about 4WD.

Thanks everyone for all your help! Glad I decided to click on this thread!

Cindy & the grrlz

You shouldn't have any additional problems with the 4WD model. A miner additional maintenance cost when you change the rear differential fluid.

What kind of dogs do you show?

Based on everything that has been posted here (tho' I still don't know what I would be looking for underneath the car- was that a joke?). .

As I said before, I'm not sure I'm too happy about owning a 4WD vehicle. My impression is 4WD will be more costly to maintain and not necessarily provide any benefit for me.

Not a joke. Look under the rear of the E for the diferential and drive shafts to each wheel. These are the mechanical bits that make the rear wheels turn when the front ones slip.

The AWD/4WD (not sure...everybody calls it somethin' different) might not be a big help to you, but could come in handy. If nothing else, it'll keep wheel spin to a minimum when accelerating "briskly" on wet roads....you got lotsa them in FL right. You got the sunroof out of it already. You might get a little better resale value too. However, it might have a slight affect on your gas mileage.

The only extra maintenance issue is changing the fluid in the rear diff....nothing too trickey....almost like an oil change really....that you do every 30-60k miles. There are an extra set of CV joints too, but they'll last as long as the front ones.

See the Rear Differential Fluid change thread (http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=29533)for a detailed info and some pics of what the diff looks like so when you're down on yer hands and knees lookin' under there you'll know what to look for.

Will

just check the VIN. :rolleyes:

a 2004 VIN should start with 5J6YH1 (2wd) or 5J6YH2 (4wd)

'nuff said. :-o

Also consider that the resale value of an AWD is about $1000 more then the 2WD.

And if your dealer or carmax sold it to you as a 2WD, then you got a deal because 4WD cost more than 2WD. :)
Dealer ignorance costs them money yet again... :rolleyes:

I am buying a second Element and the seller isn't sure if it is AWD or 2WD. How can I tell by the VIN#? Thanks.

Simplest way is to check if there is a rear sunroof.

rear sunroof = 4WD

Honestly that is the easiest way for a non-technical person to tell.

ummm....look under it?

if it has a drive shaft leading to a rear diffy and half shafts going to the rear wheels then its a symetrical 4wd...if not...its a 2wd

that or launch it real hard and see if the rear hooks?:razz:

I am buying a second Element and the seller isn't sure if it is AWD or 2WD. How can I tell by the VIN#? Thanks.

The VIN will start with 5J6YH1 (2wd) or 5J6YH2 (4wd). But it's easier to just look and see if there is a sunroof. :|

...the seller isn't sure...
I find that frightening; doesn't anyone else? :-o

No need to crawl around on your knees, no need to look at VINs. Do as spdrcr5 said and look for the rear sunroof.

hownow... you know it... makes you wonder if any maint. was ever done to it.

ummm....look under it?


Well said. Are there rear axles?

Or,
We can go to the snow and I can watch your front wheels spin.
Than I can yell you only have 2WD.
I'll see yeah later as you see my 4WD kickin the snow.....:)

Prior8...that's not always a good method...expically for me :-(

Check this thread.
http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=29009

SOmetimes around here in Monterey at a stop light, my front wheels will spin, make the rears grab, then both pairs chirp as I go over the white line...pretty fun stuff.
On the other hand, I'd have to say the Element 4WD system is a AWD...when you compare it to the early AWD systems from VW and Audi (Synchro/Quattro), it works in exactly the same way with a viscous coupling which sends power to the wheels that aren't slipping when it's needed. The old Synchros didn't send power to all four wheels at once either just like the Honda RT4WD

I find that frightening; doesn't anyone else? :-o

I concur.
Very Scary.
Has there been a rash of stolen E's and it's a Hot E?


jurn

ummm....look under it?

if it has a drive shaft leading to a rear diffy and half shafts going to the rear wheels then its a symetrical 4wd...if not...its a 2wd

that or launch it real hard and see if the rear hooks?:razz:


... not ...sure... if own vehicle is 2wd or 4wd??

:-o

Got a rear sunroof??

not to be mean, but if seller doesnt know what it is, and it happens to be AWD, then treat it as a 2wd for a cheaper price. hehe im evil.

We are looking for an 2003 EX element. I believe honda made an AWD and 2WD of that model. How can I make sure the an Element has AWD.

We are looking for an 2003 EX element. I believe honda made an AWD and 2WD of that model. How can I make sure the an Element has AWD.

If it has a sunroof, it's awd.

As mentioned....the factory sunroof is an obvious tip off....

you could also look up under the rear end (get yer mind outa the gutter) and check for the varoius bits that make the rear wheels turn (diferential,axles,driveshaft,etc)
http://www.hunterdonmill.com/images/eoc/diffrear.JPG


I forget how it is "coded" in the VIN#....but it can be decipered from that also.

Good luck.

Will

No need to get your knees dirty or decode VINs. Just look for a sunroof.
Sunroof = 4WD
No sunroof = 2WD

its 200 lbs heavier and gets crappy gas mileage:lol: :lol: and goes clunk when you turn:D


He keeps saying that. However. We have 2 4wd's drives. Each in getting around 22 to 24 Mpg around town. We do better on the Highway !

I think there is only about a 1 mpg. loss. If You call that crappy, then He is correct !

I don't!

Dom


Ps The only time you get a clunk, Is when the 4wd kicks in, when the front tire spins.

Dom, me thinks he hit his head ridin that mnt.bike. i get good m.p.g also:D

Dom, me thinks he hit his head ridin that mnt.bike. i get good m.p.g also:D
Ooo, you have the Cargo Khaki, our favorite...

Anyway, I think that he was saying that if you look at the majority of complaints, they come from people with AWD. People complaining of low mileage, weird noises, too little power, the rear two wheels not kicking in when they want, etc. Most likely the complainer will also have the AT instead of the MT, too.

Glad you guys are doing well on mileage. MikeQBF kills me on mileage with his AWD E.

Hello all. My first post on your EOC website. I'm searching for an Element and hope to buy one in the next week. I've been doing a lot of reading and was using the U.S. government website fueleconomy.gov to check on mileage. They allow you to compare two vehicles side by side, so I put a 2003 Element 4WD up against a 2003 2WD.

You can run the numbers yourself, but here's what it says for an auto transmission.

Fuel type: Regular

MPG City 2WD: 22
MPG City 4WD: 21

MPG Hwy 2WD: 26
MPG Hwy 4WD: 24

MPG Combined 2WD: 24
MPG Combined 4WD: 23

-------------------------------------------

Cost to drive 25 miles: 2WD -- $3.09
Cost to drive 25 miles: 4WD -- $3.23

Annual Fuel Cost: 2WD -- $1858 4WD -- $1938

(Based on a gas cost of $2.97 per gallon, 45% hwy, 55% city, 15,000 annual miles)



Keith / British Columbia, Canada

Cost to drive 25 miles: 2WD -- $3.09
Cost to drive 25 miles: 4WD -- $3.23

Annual Fuel Cost: 2WD -- $1858 4WD -- $1938

(Based on a gas cost of $2.97 per gallon, 45% hwy, 55% city, 15,000 annual miles)
That makes me sick as the gas prices up here in Big Bear are at 3.70 a gallon!!!

So, I've had my 2004 a few weeks now and something just occured to me...

All the Elements I have seen have the "AWD" text on the rear window. Mine doesn't.

The dealer was reputable, but I'm always a little bit paranoid about these things.

How can I tell that he really sold me an AWD?

Thanks!!!

So, I've had my 2004 a few weeks now and something just occured to me...

All the Elements I have seen have the "AWD" text on the rear window. Mine doesn't.

The dealer was reputable, but I'm always a little bit paranoid about these things.

How can I tell that he really sold me an AWD?

Thanks!!!

The sticker on the window didn't come from the factor till the 2005 model year. If you have a factory installed rear sunroof you have a 4wd model.

Also look at your VIN number if the model code is YH2 you have 4wd and last but nor least you can look under the rear end of your E and see the rear diff and axles.

Look under the tail(end) of the Element. If you see a halfshaft coming from the back of each rear hub attached to a silver aluminum differential housing at the centerline of the vehicle it is a boy -er umm I mean it is AWD.:)

Not so much...

I can identify a factory installed sunroof...that's a big hole in the roof that's supposed to be there.

Looking under the car and being able to identify anything but dirt and grime?

Waaaaaaay out of my league!!!!


The most sure-fire thing is the VIN, - find YH2 and your E was originally delivered with 4WD. This would not exclude that some genius would remove 4WD capability, - one of our sly members here has already admitted to such...

I'm new to this forum and don't mean to ask stupid questions but... am looking at an 04 E and I don't know how to tell if it has AWD or not. Any help or suggestions on how to find out. Thanks.

I'm new to this forum and don't mean to ask stupid questions but... am looking at an 04 E and I don't know how to tell if it has AWD or not. Any help or suggestions on how to find out. Thanks.

If it has a sunroof it was delivered as 4WD. BUT, still loook for the pumpin under the rear axle, some clown here has extracted all the 4WD guts in his E...

I'm with you on that one. Just look under the rear of the E. You will see the rear differential, and the drive shafts ( Half Shafts ) coming out of it to each wheel.

That's the safe way to tell.

Dom

There's also a code in the VIN. I'm not sure what it is, but I know its been posted here before.

Anyone?

Found it...(cut and pasted from a previous thread)

The VIN (serial number) contains a code for AWD. It is the sixth character, after the '5J6YH'. If it is a "2" then you have AWD. If it is a "1" then you have FWD.

There's also a code in the VIN. I'm not sure what it is, but I know its been posted here before.

Anyone?



YH1 is FWD
YH2 is 4WD

Thanks!!! You guys are great. Would really like to have a new one buy need to tow it behind a motorhome and can't do it with the new ones. So I'll settle and enjoy this one.

i'm trying to pick up a 03 element used and can't quite tell if the car is awd or fw. the owner has it listed as 4x4 but i don't see the awd sticker that's normally on the back of the car. I was wondering if someone here can help me visually ID if it indeed is awd?? tx

sry if noob question

The units with the rear sunroof are AWD. 2WD versions do not have this option.

Regards,

Most likey it is AWD, especially if automatic. I believe the initial manual transmission Elements were FWD.

Does it have a skylight (in back)? Then it is AWD.

You can also 'sex' it like you would a crab - look on the underside. If there is a rear drive shaft, differentials, and half shafts leading to the rear wheels, it is AWD. It's not hard to see those parts, but you do have to have some idea of what they are.

paulj

wow that was quick. i don't want to crawl under the car since i don't think i can even squeeze my fat head under it.. i'll bet on the sunroof option. so if it's in the back then it's awd??

wow that was quick. i don't want to crawl under the car since i don't think i can even squeeze my fat head under it.. i'll bet on the sunroof option. so if it's in the back then it's awd??
.

Thats correct. You can also look at the VIN for the model code. FWD is YH1 and 4WD is YH2.

you could also write down the vin number and go home hop on the computer thingamajig n go to carfax dot com type in the vin number and it should give you the basics for free... i just checked and i was wrong but you can register on honda owner link plug in the vin and it does definately tell you what the thing is there, plus you will be regitered then... rotsa ruck ratro...

much tx ppl. i'll post pics if the deal goes through

This topic has popped up on the boards quite often. All the methods of I.D. ing a 4WD E posted will work if the E is not modified.

The most sure fire way to tell if the E in question is equipped with Real Time 4WD? 1. Go to the back of the Element
2. Kneel down behind the back bumper
3. Look under the suspected 4WD Element- if it has 4WD it will have a
silver differential housing at the centerline of the vehicle between the
rear wheels. Half shafts connect the differential to the rear wheels and
a driveshaft connects the differential to the transaxle at the front. A
front wheel drive only Element will NOT have the differential or the
rear half shafts.
The vin number will tell you if the vehicle was originally equipped with the 4WD system, but some people-including a couple EOC members- remove the 4WD to gain a fraction better mileage, or to do the 6 speed MT conversion.

The stickers didn't come on the Element until the 2005 or 06 model year.

Check for the sunroof or rear diff and drive shaft.

... some people-including a couple EOC members- remove the 4WD to ... do the 6 speed MT conversion.
Nuh uh. 6th has zero to do with AWD. My 6-speed MT started as AWD, and still is.

Sorry! :-(

Nuh uh. 6th has zero to do with AWD. My 6-speed MT started as AWD, and still is.

Sorry! :-(


:lol:

L-A-W-L-Z

Hi Everyone,
I just purchased a 2003 element and I am not sure if it is 4wd or 2wd.
I crawled under it and there is a drive shaft going to the rear tires. However, there is no sticker in the back window saying "AWD". The dealer told me it was 4wd. I would appreciate any ideas you have on it. Other than that I really like this little machine. Thanks.

Bill

Hi Everyone,
I just purchased a 2003 element and I am not sure if it is 4wd or 2wd.
I crawled under it and there is a drive shaft going to the rear tires. However, there is no sticker in the back window saying "AWD". The dealer told me it was 4wd. I would appreciate any ideas you have on it. Other than that I really like this little machine. Thanks.

Bill

Does it have a sunroof? If yes, then it's 4WD:)

Moon roof located in a really silly spot= AWD.

Sticker didn't come around until 2005.:cool:

Thanks for the Quick response! Yes it has a sun roof all the way in the back. The kids love laying the seats back and looking at the stars. Thanks again...nice to know it is AWD.

Bill

Check Vin number

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1868

honda element VIN decoder. (http://www.re-vision.com/element-j/vin_decoder.html)

just another option for you.

Half shafts going to the rear wheels are a pretty good sign of AWD.

Not sure where to post this... I am looking at buying a '03 DX manual/stick - the owner told me that it is AWD, does anyone know if the manual DX came with the AWD or front wheel drive only...?? I thought it was the latter. Thanks!

it came with either. AWD and FWD were both available in the '03 DX

Not sure where to post this... I am looking at buying a '03 DX manual/stick - the owner told me that it is AWD, does anyone know if the manual DX came with the AWD or front wheel drive only...?? I thought it was the latter. Thanks!

First look if it has got a sunroof in the back. Then look under the rear and see if it has got a 'pumpkin' and shafts. If all is a 'YES' you got yourself a 4WD E.

like wen i look at elements how can i really tell it has awd and it has fxc seats?? how can i tell its a true AWD EX?? i dont want someone making it up and i believe it?? please help

look under the rear to see if there are axles and a rear diff

Curious.. a 2WD does not have axles in the rear?

Is having a sunroof in the rear a clue?

no rear axles on a 2wd just hubs you wont see the cv joint axles going to the rear diff of a 2wd

The rear moonroof is far easier to notice than sticking your head under the rear bumper.

No moonroof, no AWD.

From what I remember in 05', the non fcx rear seats looks different to the front fcx seats.

do the seats say fxc or something??

The seats in my E don't talk much. :D

No I have not seen any markings that indicate what fabric they are made of. Just take a close look. You will be able to tell if it's not the same as the front seats.

Just a side note/ We have had some members remove the 4WD from there E's. If you are getting a used one, It's not a bad Idea to take a look. Make sure there is a rear differential and the 2 half shafts going to the wheels.

Dom

lol i have no idea wat any of this stuff related to 4wd looks like

A 4wd version (prior to the '09 model) will have the rear sunroof. An EX model will have FXC fabric front and back.

2wd will not have the sunroof, and non-EX or EX-P model (DX, LX) will only have FXC on the front seats.

You can always use this VIN Decoder (http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=46933&highlight=decoder) to tell what you have if all else fails.

If the E has been modified by a past owner, well, heck fire, there's no way anyone on the site can tell you for certain. But we can tell you what should be there, or at least what was there to begin with.

I was gonna say post the VIN and we'll tell you!

lol i have no idea wat any of this stuff related to 4wd looks like

From the back of the Element. Look under the bumper. You will see a bunch of suspension pieces that are connecting the two rear wheels. If in between the wheels you see a large circular item about 8"-10" in diamter, that's the differential. this is what controls the power being transferred to the rear wheels in the AWD version of the Element. if you don't see this, then it is 2WD.

The rear sunroof is also an indicator that the Element is AWD.

As for the FCX seat material. The front seats are covered in FCX in the EX and LX only. The EX has it in the rear as well.

In order to tell what model is what, read the VIN Decoder (http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=46933) and it will show you. This will also show you which is 2WD and AWD.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe in the 07+, only the EX has FXC at all. My 07 LX is just heavy canvas. My old 03 EX had FXC so I've seen it and know the difference.

All Elements DX, LX, EX, EX-P have FXC fabric in the front seats, all the EX and EX-P versions have it in the rear seats too.

FWIW, specs for all models are located here (http://automobiles.honda.com/certified-used/model-library.aspx?ModelName=Element).

im lookin for a 03-05 awd ex.... wat are the chances the awd will be messed up??

im lookin for a 03-05 awd ex.... wat are the chances the awd will be messed up??

my guess is a fluid change, of course any used vehicle could have problem(s) - I would have a mechanic that you trust evaluate any car before purchase.

All Elements DX, LX, EX, EX-P have FXC fabric in the front seats, all the EX and EX-P versions have it in the rear seats too.

FWIW, specs for all models are located here (http://automobiles.honda.com/certified-used/model-library.aspx?ModelName=Element).

Odd. The seat fabric in my LX is very different than the old seat fabric in my 03 EX. I'm 99% sure it's just canvas, same as the rear seats. My old one was more plastic-y and a much rougher weave.

im lookin for a 03-05 awd ex.... wat are the chances the awd will be messed up??

Agreed, have a mechanic look at it. Change the rear diff fluid right away, it's cheap and no telling when it was last done. Other than that, that's about the only problem you should find in the AWD. It's pretty bullet-proof reliable if you keep up with the fluid changes.

im lookin for a 03-05 awd ex.... wat are the chances the awd will be messed up??

My best suggestion is to buy from a dealer and have them certify it so you get the 100,000 mile warranty. you'll pay a bit more but it sounds like it would ease your mind.

The chances all depend on the amount of miles on the Element. If less than 40,000 miles then make sure they change the rear diff fluid at their cost before taking delivery. then you will be just fine and know with as close to 100% certainty that it is in good shape. Nothing is a guarantee though. If the Element has more than 50,000 miles and you can't find the records where it shows the diff fluid was changed... it becomes a slightly more risky purchase. but you can drive in a parking lot in a tight circle and see if you hear any "odd noises" coming from the back of the Element. if you do, have them change the diff and make note on the invoice.

No matter the miles, have them change the fluid.

You should be alright buying a used Element. They are about as bulletproof a Honda as you can buy.

Odd. The seat fabric in my LX is very different than the old seat fabric in my 03 EX. I'm 99% sure it's just canvas, same as the rear seats. My old one was more plastic-y and a much rougher weave.

They did change the seat fabric, due to cracking issues. The fronts are still treated "fabric for extreme conditons" (FXC), just a new generation.

They did change the seat fabric, due to cracking issues. The fronts are still treated "fabric for extreme conditons" (FXC), just a new generation.

Thank ye, that's what I wanted to know :D

My wife and I each have 2006 Honda EXs. Hers has a sticker saying Realtime 4WD on the rear window. Mine has no such sticker.

1. Is this model available with or without?
2. If I need to use chains (for heavy snow driving in the mountains), which axle would I put them on?

1. Yes. If you have a moonroof, you have 4wd
2. Front for 2wd or 4wd

Thanks!!! Both of our 2006s have the moonroof!

OK, to cover the possibility that the sticker was removed from your vehicle, look under the vehicle between the rear wheels. if there is an empty spot the vehicle is FWD (front wheel drive) and if there is a pumpkin sized differential the vehicle is RT 4WD.
regardless, the chains go on the front tires. as has already been stated.

How can you tell if a 2004 element is 4x4. should there be a decal on rear window?

If it has a sunroof it is 4x4.

It it has a sunroof it has AWD. You might call it 4WD; I wouldn't call it a 4X4. If you want a decal, H and A sells them.

bend down and look under the car right where the rear axles would meet. if there's an open frame there, it's FWD. if there's a pumpkin sized solid thing there, it's 4WD, and you've just found the rear differential. that differential should have a fairly large diameter rod/shaft connecting it to the transmission.

i have no idea why this is in the "Ask the dealer" section.

Hello Everyone.

I've just joined the forum just a few minutes ago. I have been looking at this awesome vehicle for about a year now. I'm ready to purchase an 07 or 08 EX because I need the sunroof in the back for the dog. Also, I need AWD for the snow. Other than that AWD sticker on the back window, how can I tell if an E is really AWD? There is one in the local BMW dealer that they claim is AWD, but there is no AWD sticker in the back window. I don't want to be taken. Please help. Thanks a lot in advance. Charles

look for the sunroof in the back....

Thanks Chef.....are you saying all E with sunroofs are AWD? I know I need the sunroof for sure, but how can I tell it is really a AWD as I just don't trust that sticker in the back window since I'm buying a used car. Thanks, Charles

Hello Everyone.

I've just joined the forum a few minutes ago. I'm looking for an 07 or 08 EX with AWD. I need the sunroof in the back for my dog. Also, I need AWD for the snow. How can I tell an E is really an AWD other than that sticker in the back window? Since I'm buying a used car, I just can't trust that sticker. Is there any physical appearance in the engine or somewhere else that tells me it is really an AWD? Please help. Thanks a lot......Charles

Hello Everyone.

I've just joined the forum a few minutes ago. I'm looking for an 07 or 08 EX with AWD. I need the sunroof in the back for my dog. Also, I need AWD for the snow. How can I tell an E is really an AWD other than that sticker in the back window? Since I'm buying a used car, I just can't trust that sticker. Is there any physical appearance in the engine or somewhere else that tells me it is really an AWD? Please help. Thanks a lot......Charles

There are a few ways:

The main one would be to look under the E. If there is a rear differential
and the half shafts going to the wheels, its AWD.

ONLY the AWD models come with the factory sunroof in the rear.

In the VIN, you will see this YH2. YH1 is a front wheel drive E.

look under the car and see if theres a drive shaft in the middle of the car going from front to back

Thanks Chef.....are you saying all E with sunroofs are AWD? I know I need the sunroof for sure, but how can I tell it is really a AWD as I just don't trust that sticker in the back window since I'm buying a used car. Thanks, Charles
^^Yep,that's probably the fastest/easiest way to identify one.That is unless you're looking at a 2009,or 2010 model since neither of those ever came with the sunroof. Oh and the Element is actually 4wd,not awd.;-)

When i bought my 04 first thing i asked was is it 4wd. The guy wasn't sure and it had no stickers on the windows, i didn't know about the skylight deal so i just glanced underneath and found out what i needed to know.

When I was kid, nearly all cars were rearwheel drive with the obvious 'pumpkin' in the rear. I only read about the front wheel drive Saab. 4wd pickups had to be raised just to fit a differential under the engine. So it was second nature to look under the car to check whether it was 2 or 4.

I suspect that most people who ask the question of this thread don't know anything about differentials and drive shafts. 4wd is a magical function buried deep within the guts of the car, with no obvious outward manifestation.

I looked on the back window of mine and it has a sticker that says, Real Time AWD.

I looked on the back window of mine and it has a sticker that says, Real Time AWD.

Sure fire way is to look at your VIN.

YH1 = Front wheel drive
YH2 = 4-wheel drive

Hello Everyone.

I've just joined the forum a few minutes ago. I'm looking for an 07 or 08 EX with AWD. I need the sunroof in the back for my dog. Also, I need AWD for the snow. How can I tell an E is really an AWD other than that sticker in the back window? Since I'm buying a used car, I just can't trust that sticker. Is there any physical appearance in the engine or somewhere else that tells me it is really an AWD? Please help. Thanks a lot......Charles

there have already been answers, but i couldn't resist.
4WD E's can be distinguished from FWD E's the same way you distinguish a male dog from a female dog. go to the rear and look between the things that hold the rear off the ground. 4WD E's have a spherical thing that has a shaft that goes toward the front. i'm going to stop here...
or, as others have pointed out, just look for YH2 in the VIN.

Sure fire way is to look at your VIN.

YH1 = Front wheel drive
YH2 = 4-wheel drive

Already know it is 4WD.. I looked before I bought it. Also has the sunroof. But I never bothered to look to see if there is a sticker on the window, so I did and it does.:grin:8)