I couldn't be more dissapointed with the handling characteristics of my new Element. I have owned three CRVs, and everyone has been wonderful. I bought the Element on the Honda reputation. Now I warn anyone who's contemplating to purchase to make another choice. It handles admirably on smooth pavement. On a rough highway, it reads every seam, bump or irregularity on the road. I experience tire noise and vibration on coarse surfaces, tire nibble up an down grades, and shimmying when going around slight bends on the hiway.When you get this thing on a stretch of highway that is wavy, it literally bounces along. This isn't just a fluke, either, because I have driven another new Element to make sure that mine was not just in need of repair or adjustment. They all ride this way, at least the 4WDs. My dealer said that it was just the handling characteristics of the car, although they did notice and admit that all of these were present when they drove my car. Seems the regional rep had never driven one before, nor had the service manager. I know that your temptation, since you want one of these things so bad, will be to convince yourself that I am overly critical or my expectations are too high. Believe me, I have driven Hondas and Toyotas for most of my 30-plus driving career, and never have I ever given handling a second thought - they were always superb. Now, when I drive my new Element, I can feel all of life and nature coming right through my steering wheel. It is aggravating and distracting, to say the least.

I can only call the Element's handling extremely unacceptable. No engineer with adequate R&D time would have ever let this thing out the door. I am so disappointed that I am going to seek to trade it - at considerable loss to myself I am sure. I just can't see driving something every day that reminds me of how I have been taken. Honda should never let this thing out the gate knowing the handling characterisitcs it has. I am sure that many people have not spoken of it because they either don't want to admit that they've been taken, or ignorantly think that a $20 thousand auto is supposed to handle this way.

My advice to you - buy a CRV, or look at the new Kia Sorrento. or a Matrix. Stay away from the element until generation 2 comes along.

Actually, most every review that I have read (see review page) has given the element's handling 2 thumbs up. I'm sure that your estimation of the E's handling is backed by a much more extensive experience than the reviewers of, say, edmunds or car & driver and the like, or even of the R&D engineers that you Rip so easily. If you want to be completely isolated from the road, then this car isn't for you. Go get a Cadillac.

Actually, I think your ignorance has spoken quite loudly when you suggest that car buyers should jump into the black pit of doom and purchase a Kia.

I just don't want you to jump into the black pit of buying a car that doesn't own up to its own handling claims. Maybe you didn't read me right when I said I have owned numerous cars of this class, and have never had the occasion to question their handling - until now. Do you honestly think that I bought this car to be disappointed? I don't want a Cadillac or other boat. I want a Honda that feels like a Honda should, that is, free from vibration, shimmy, nibble, and shake. Don't be afraid of another's opinion - I know my cars, and I am telling you Honda has a problem with this one.. i have seen it before - the initial reviews are always largely positive (New Beetle) until the experience factor builds.....

jgrisanti,

I am sorry to hear that you are not happy with your Element. I know having driven both my E and my paralegal's CRV that to me, the E is just an all aorund better car. I love the way it is solid in a turn compared to the CRV. I love the way it seems to take turns better at high speed.

All I can assume is that the Element you bought may have some problems, as I agree with the reviews the Element is a real fun ride, and the handling is great.

While I won't talk about you personally, I know many people who have bought a Kia everyone could not wait to trade it in, or sell it.

I will say this, if you are not happy with your Element, drop me a private message, off the board, I would love to buy another, and if you are looking to trade it in, perhaps we can talk. I don't mind getting a used one. :D

It seems that people on this forum have a penchant for doubting anyone who might have a negative view of the Element. Read carefully - I said that even the dealer and his regional rep, when they finally drove the car, admitted that the handling characterisitcs as I have described were present. I drove another at their offer and the same handling characteristics were present. I have driven CRVs for about 150,000 miles and never felt the road through the steering and suspension. As for the preliminary reviews of this or any other new model - they usualy receive only quick and tertiary reviews at first. I detaected numerous cues in the many articles I read that indicated to me the reviewiers often did not know the car well.

jgrisanti,

Well, we do read. I read your message, depending on where you are, if you are going to get rid of you Element, and there is nothing wrong with it, I am interested in buying it. You said you are going to be taking a loss, that is great. I don't mind getting a used Element.

I don't even worry about about the color. Let me know where you are, and what you might want for it. :D

When you drive your Element, do you feel every road surface affect thru your steering wheel? I do, and I have never driven a new car that did this, and I have driven many. Does your Element go glop glop glop over every road seam? My three CRVs didn't. Don't misunderstand me, I like this car in many ways. I bought it, but I just can't accept its front end sensations.

jgrisanti,

I don't have a problem with the handling. I don't feel every bump or seam or anything like that. My other car is a Mercedes, and I don't feel anything in that either.

If you want to get rid of it, please let me know.

Well then, you don't want mine, nor do you want the other new one I drove. Frankly, your opinion is hard to accept. Explain to me, what exactly is a 'moderator' on this forum. How are you a moderator? Whom do you represent, and how does one become a moderator. I would like to hear the opinions of others, besides the other gentleman who just took possession of his Element one day ago.

Check your tire pressure

Did that..............to specs.

[quote:dc30a70ee2="jgrisanti"]Well then, you don't want mine, nor do you want the other new one I drove. Frankly, your opinion is hard to accept. Explain to me, what exactly is a 'moderator' on this forum. How are you a moderator? Whom do you represent, and how does one become a moderator. I would like to hear the opinions of others, besides the other gentleman who just took possession of his Element one day ago.[/quote:dc30a70ee2]

Wow. I've never been called a gentleman before. Must not be talking about me. (yes, even I, the lowly "gentleman" from Nebraska, can catch the sarcasm in your words)

Actually, I've had the car for about a week now w/no problems.

Your opinion is legit, but your whine makes my ears hurt. Get rid of the car if you don't like it. Buy a Kia instead.

Please don't take this the wrong way, but did you test drive the element before you bought it? Or did you think that because it is built on the platform of the CRV you were getting the same car? I have had my element for 3 week and have not had a problem with the handling. Then agian, I'm coming from a dodge 4x4. we also have a CRV and they do drive different. The CRV handles a lot like a car, which suits my girl friend, and the element drives a little like a truck. The marketing of the element should have tip you off that it was not a lux ride.

I bought the element for one reason. It was the only thing on the market that could replace most of the utility of my truck and be environmentally friendly. This is a utility vehical. It is made to haul you and your gear to the cabin or trail. Agian, I don't mean to be insulting, but if ride and handling is so important to you, why are you in this market?

We drove out of town for the first time yesterday. We were on a bumpy road for a bit and it did handle a bit rougher (barely) than our Accord over the nasty bumps but knowing that the E is a different type of vehicle than the Accord I expected this but, nothing that was felt throught the steering or any front-end sensations.

On our out-of-town excursion, we were truely amazed at how smooth and quite the ride was in my new E and the seats were very comfortable. We were probably on the road a good 2 hours. Still in the break-in period still under 250 miles. I am not disappointed in the least with the Element and this is my 3rd Honda.

But, everyone has different roads they travel on and I would say that if you are unhappy with your ride now, you should look for another vehicle or you will always be unhappy with it. Nothing worse than having a vehicle that does not fit your needs or satisfaction, because we all seem to spend alot of time in our vehicles and deserve what we expect and pay for.

jgrisanti,

To start a moderator is a volunteer who helps keep track of the posts on the board, removing spam as needed, as well as double posts, and the like.

We are not paid, nor do we work for Honda or any dealership. I am a moderator as I answered T-Mac's request for volunteers to help keep an eye on the board. I am not told what to say, or what not to say. I represent myself and myself alone. I am an Attorney by day, and a super nice guy at night. :D

You have by now seen the posts of several other people, all of whom have Elements. Not one person agrees with you. I woud be happy to take that one off your hands. Even the other new one you claim to have driven.

For you to say my opinion is hard to accept, that is your feeling. However are the opinions of others on this board or anyone who disagrees with you also hard to accept?

Now, questions for you. Do you test drive a vehicle before you pay money for it? (as boneheadz mentioned)

You mentioned that you owned 3 CRV's before. You must not keep cars too long. Why did you want to change to the Element if you were so happy with your CRV.

You seem to be more interested in bad mouthing the E than in getting rid or it. I stand by my offer. If you want to get rid of it, drop me a message, we can talk numbers. My wife and I love our Element, long trips, short trips, fun to drive. It would not hurt for us to buy another, and if I can pick it up from someone who does not want theirs, so much the better for me. You already mentioned you were thinking you were going to take a loss. Great, I am interested. You want to sell it, we can talk, if not, take a walk. Money talks, and BS walks kiddo.

If you just want to bad mouth the Element, so be it, but if you really want to get rid of what you say is a vehicle you hate, let me know.

If you have been to this site for alwhile, you know that I too have had an issue with my Element.
But let me say that I am so happy that I bought this MUV (mini utility vehicle) :D I can't explain it, but everyday I enjoy getting into this car.
I can't wait for this summer!

I am glad to have promoted some good healthy discourse on the handling characteristics of the Element. All of your responses are interesting. Some of them are even polite; others, a little too sensitive.

I test drove the Element before I bought it, yes. Something as subtle as handling often doesn't become noticeable all at once. Once I got a chance to drive this thing under various road conditions for an extended period, its characteristics began to show. I'm sorry to those of you who can't bear to witness criticism of HONDA or ELEMENT. I never said I hated the car - I do like it, but I have VERY strong feelings that Honda could and should have built a much better handling car in the Element. I have much to compare it to and much driving experience to back up my opinion. The purpose of my writing to this section of the forum is not only to eleicit your expereinces, but to reflect on potential buyers whta my reaction to the vehicle has been thus far, just as you have done. Thanks to those of you who offer civil comments. Ouch to those of you whose egos can't move over.

jgrisanti,

So am I to then understand that even though you said you wanted to get rid of your Element, you don't want to now?

I don't think anyone has a problem with you stating your opinion, your feelings, or your thoughts on the Element, or Honda.

You said you have had 3 CRVs. That says quite a bit for your love of Honda as a company.

The Element is not the vehicle for everyone. Some people love it, some hate it. There is no question of that.

If you post in a forum such as this, you should know that people will add their 2 cents worth. Some for the positive and others for the negative.

I fully expect and appreciate others' opinions. I also adherrer to civility The idea to sell my car to you was your idea.

[quote:119d838fd2="jgrisanti"] I am so disappointed that I am going to seek to trade it - at considerable loss to myself I am sure. I just can't see driving something every day that reminds me of how I have been taken. [/quote:119d838fd2]

I don't disagree that selling your Element to me, was my idea. I am only responding to your post quoted above. If you want to trade it in, as you have said you wanted to do, I am interested in buying it. I am sure I would be able to pay you more than your dealer would offer in trade.

I ask one more time. If you are truthful in your posts, please let me know. I would be happy to take the Element off your hands. No financing, I pay cash, certified check, money order, etc., what ever suits you.

Civility. Yes, it is something that each of us should abide by. :D I agree 100%.

jgrisanti - Just to confirm what RML has said since I'm the site administator and founder of Element Owners Club:

RML, myself and one other on here are "Moderators" meaning we basically monitor the boards. If we only had 50 members, I could do it alone. But, this site has over 300 members now and we have only been up for a month and a half. If you look around the boards, there are some negative discussions about the Element. We don't edit them or delete them, so we are certainly open to negative chat on here.

With that being said, let me also tell you this (as I also told another poster on the board recently). We are glad you are a member and posting your concern about the ride because we all benefit from hearing from other member's experiences. But, this is an owner/fan/enthusiast site. You shouldn't be surprised to come on this site/board and be overwhelmed by happy, enthusiastic owners.

If RML hasn't made it clear enough in any of his dozen or so posts, he will buy your Element. He's talked about buying a second Element long before you posted, so I know he's serious. And he's an attorney so he can afford it! :lol:

I hope, if you truly dislike your Element and want to get rid of it, that you do or perhaps your dealer will take it back from you. You should be happy after spending that much money. We have some very knowledgeable and helpful members. As others read your posts, maybe they'll have some suggestions for you that may help you out.

Good luck.

The Element was purposely designed with a stiffer suspension than the CRV. This reduces body roll and makes the vehicle more stable when cornering or performing sudden manouvers. The stiffer suspension also transmits more of the road to the driver and can be harsher on rough pavement. Its a tradeoff.

Some people prefer to feel connected to the road and some dont. I personally prefer a car that gives me feedback and allows me to feel what is going on. When I've driven vehicles that seem to float over the road without touching, it was extremely unsettling.

[quote:e5e4b161ac="jgrisanti"]I couldn't be more dissapointed with the handling characteristics of my new Element. .[/quote:e5e4b161ac]

I also noted the relatively rough ride of the element. In one review I read, the reduced suspension travel in the rear was talked about, in order to make the cargo area square.

I just got back from a test drive of both an Accord and an Element. The Accord has a MUCH smoother ride... anyone who says otherwise is not really paying attention, in my opinion.

That said, where are you located? Are you intrested in selling your Element? I'm in northern California... bay area... and I may be interested in buying yours. mark@particlesalad.com

I won't criticize you for not liking the ride, as it clearly is NOT as smooth as other Hondas. However, it doesn't bother me.

If you having problems with your vehicle as you describe, there is an arbitation process prescribed in contract law that may be followed. Our opinions on the "E' may vary, however, if you are having a problem such as you describe, our opinions here will not help you.

I hope you can resolve your issues with the "E'. Good luck.

Iskie

Thank you, you are right, you are a group of happy Element owners. I am not surprised or dissapointed to find a group of satisfied enthusiasts. I am confident that what I have described to be the handling aspects of this car do objectively exist, as validated by the Honda regional rep and the dealer service manager who road with me and drove the car. Both of these gentlemen noted what I have described to you. Neither had driven an Element before and I was frankly surprised by that. My car does not handle differently from the other that I had occassion to drive, so I know these things are not peculiar to my auto. Element drivers' reactions to these handling characterisitcs are entirely subjective; they may suit some, be objectionable to others. I am not uncomfortable with the opinions of the other drivers that differ from mine. I am curious about your attention toward one whose views do not match the majority of your subscribers.

You see, before I bought my Element, I visited your site numerous times. It seems to be one of the few places where a shopper can view the experiences of other buyers. Diversity of opinion is so important. Please keep that in mind as you encounter divergent views. I do hope that future writers to your site provide their observations about handling.

To isketerol, mfassett and tcristy:
Thank you for your fair remarks. I don't think I would get far with arbitration. Mine is a subjective reaction to the handling of the car. I don't think anyhting is the matter with the car, other than its ride is, in my opinion, inferior. I have owned CRVs, Toyota trucks, a few SUVs, as well as coupes and sedans. Nothing has given me the ride that this one has. I am well aware of the 'trade-off' issue of suspension vs. ride. I contend that in this instance Honda went to far, and could have given ALL OF US a much smoother ride along with handling. The car is jumpy and quirky on all but the smoothest pavement.

I warn anyone who's contemplating to purchase to make another choice.

Again, we're glad you are sharing your experience with us. But, as quoted above, you are not posting your experience alone. You are warning people not to buy the Element and even going so far as to recommend other manufacturers.

Please tell me this....if you had a regional rep and a service manager both confirm that the ride was poor quality, did they not offer some suggestion or solution? Did they just say "Yep, it's bad. You're right."?? Every time I've taken a ride with anyone at that level I have either gotten an apology and a solution or told "that's normal". What were you told?

isketerol,

Well, the arbitration process differs from state to state, and in Canada.

Each car has a used and new car lemon law. :D I used to work for the guy in NY who wrote the used car lemon law. As jfrisanti said, their problem is subjective. I doubt that any law or arbitration would help.

Hey jgrisanti,

I beleive what you say and had experienced a similar thing on two early model test drives. It was the first thing I looked for when I took delivery.

Mine did not have this problem.

I think the problem is with the tires not being balanced or not being round.... or maybe with undercoating accidentally sprayed on one side of a drive shaft or boot.

Something that spins is not balanced. and maybe it is close to a natural reasonance... but if things are balanced it does go away.

Ed

To TMAC:
I'm sorry. in sharing my opinions am I not allowed to suggest to others that they might consider another choice? After all, you have person after person writing to your forum asking for other people's advice on whether or not they should make a purchase. Maybe you should suggest to them that they not ask that question, lest they receive skewed advice. As for the response of the Honda guys, I got both answers. They did not know, they thought it might be normal but had nothing to compare it to, and asked that we watch it. I do intend to bring it in again for a closer look....

To Ed:
Sir, you are the first person who has shed light on the possibility that what I am saying just might be true. Your observations about tire roundness and balance have merit. You wouldn't expect it on a new car, but it can happen. What I fingd more intersting is the possibility that undercoating might contribute to the problem. Thank you.

Now isn't this more fun than talking about who just took delivery of new floor mats for their Element?

Oh yeah, stirring up drama is always fun, isn't it?! :?

Now that everyone's clear and happy....lets all breathe for a second and imagine birds chirping and sun shining. Oh, yes, and move on! :wink: :D

jgrisanti,

So.......I take it you are not getting rid of your E so fast?

If you do still want to trade it in, please let me know.

With the delivery problems, and the amount of people looking to buy them, I would say that whatever area you are in, you should have no problem finding someone to take it off your hands. :D

There is absolutely no problem in my area getting an Element. I waited twenty-four hours...the lot had about twelve. I wanted a different color and they got it the next day.

jgrisanti,

That is fantastic, many people are waiting and waiting. Where are you located? I am sure some people would love to be able to get their Elements ASAP.

You still have not answered my question since the start of this topic. If you are looking to get rid of your Element. You mentioned you were going to trade it in, please post if you want to, and I am sure we can find you a buyer, quick. :D

Thank you for your kind offer of assistance, but I will manage on my own. But you are right in one thing, it is becoming increasingly apparent to me just how easy it would be to sell this car.

jgrisanti-

You are welcome to post what you want. Good luck getting rid of your Element.

Thank you.

I think that some of the same things that jgrisanti does not like about the Element are the things that I enjoy about it. I traded a Miata on the Element and one of my big worries was that I was going to be driving a big sloppy boat with no road feel and lousy cornering. I wasn't totally convinced after test-driving a 4wd auto but now that I have a 5-speed 2wd, I get a major kick out of banging the gears, pushing it in the corners - *and* the feedback I get from the road. It drives the way it looks, you know? And, like its looks, its drive might not be for everyone.

You are right, the car does have crisp steering and flat cornering, attributable to the wider stance, large tires, suspension and stiffness. The car can be a blast to drive. You just shouldn't feel all of that in the form of vibration up through the steering column. It just isn't necessary. And it contributes to driver fatigue and distraction, let alone discomfort. Miata doesn't do it, and neither does CRV, Outback, Suburban, Explorer... Only Element.

Why do you get so much pleasure from bitching about your "crappy Element" to other Element owners?

You been here four hour! You go now!

Sincerely,
The Element Sunshine Nazi

Red Armageddon,

Please, behave. jgrisanti has a right to feel about his E the way he feels.

Yes, many of us are passionate about our E's. To drive it is to love it.

:D

jgrisanti can post his dislikes, just as you or anyone else can post about their likes.

If anyone wants to post truthful feelings about the E, this is the place for it. :wink:

All that is asked is that you be truthful, and polite

To be honest AND polite is like being a politican AND a man. Usually doesn't happen.

I have a kind of morbid facination with the guy that becomes a member (just today) and starts ripping into the Element's handling, while plugging Kia (of all companies) and Toyota. I wonder, "is he here because he just doesn't have anyone else who will listen to his opinions?" Or, "hmmmm...seems like someone has hidden motives."

I am no more passionate about the E than I am about peanutbutter. I just smell a rat, so to speak.

The Sunshine Nazi thing was pure sarcasm, BTW. I am no trike-rider.

Thank you.

I get no pleasure out of pointing out my dislikes of the car. I bought this car because I fell in love with it just like you. I ended up disappointed because of my experience. At least one of you, Ed, suggested that he had a similar experience, and offererd some helpful sugestions. Don't let someone else's problem detract from your own enjoyment. Enjoy your Element.

Ad don't be afraid of views that differ from your own.

Oh, and there are no conspiracies, just strange coincidences.

As long as you (and anyone else out there) can post in a polite manner, and without it being spam, or a personal attack, I can deal with it. :wink:

[quote:1b79b6303d="Red Armageddon"]To be honest AND polite is like being a politican AND a man. Usually doesn't happen.[/quote:1b79b6303d]

It's too bad too... because it's not really that hard to be honest and polite.

I finally took my E for a much longer ride after just over 400 miles (all local) and did a 140 mile loop. Quite amazed at the quietness compared to the CR-V. Sorry to hear you do not like your ride. Perhaps you should go back to a CR-V, ok?

Ger

I would like to say that I appreciate views that are not always popular.
One owner could have a problem others don't etc. I would like to hear all opinions and make my decision. Having said that, I applaud those that run the website and moderate it. They could have deleted your post - poof. It's their perogative. To their credit, they didn't and sincerely argued their differences.

Differences of opinion are normal and it's actually part of the learning process - spurs discussion and thought.

:wink:

Back the handling problem: My dad has a 2003 Maxima SE that on rough road will jar the teeth right out of your head. Some consumers are after the more 'tightly sprung' ride. I currently own a Z24 which makes riding in a buckboard wagon seem like you're on a soft cloud. When I test drove the E, I did notice that it read every bump...But I appreciated that. One thing I do not like in a car is the disconnected feeling from the road. I, for one, want to feel the road and do not mistake a 'connected' feeling with a poor ride or handling. I guess it comes down to personal preference...And may variables, such as tires and local road conditions makes a big difference. I have not driven an E with Goodyears yet (I won't until my E arrives at the dealership). The one I drove had a dealer tire upgrade and was riding on beefier Tiger Paws, giving an even rougher (and noisier) ride.

I have only had my Element for about a week and have drove almost
400 miles. I had a Nissan Frontier and to me, the drive feel is about
the same with both vehicles. My wife has a CRV which I think is a better
ride but it is a little touchy to me as far as steering since I am used to
a truck type ride.

I just wanted to give my two cents worth to all. I purchased a new CRV for my wife in January and I got myself the Element. They both drive and perform great for me. I actually think that the Element is quieter when driving it. I drive the element to work daily and now have over 1,000 miles on it. I do not feel anything in the steering. Mine is not bumpy over roads or I just don't notice or think about it. It turns on a dime, is fun to drive and so far I just haven't found anything to really complain about for a new vehicle just out. That little motor just purrs and there is plenty of power for me. I've read about things that others have found wrong and go out and look at mine for the same things. The only thing I have found is that the drivers seat is getting some wrinkles in the right corner alittle, but it really doesn't bother me though. Just wanted to say that overall I am happy and hope that this vehicle will last for many years.

I drive my Element on multiple surfaces, from the worst of back mud pits and caleche to smooth interstate on my daily 100 mile round trip to work. I must say my Element (5 spd) handles the washboard roads exteremly well. It is a much better ride than our Tacoma and is better than our Dodge Ram Van handled. I think my Civic was smoother, but now I can get past the flooded creeks! On some city streets, I have detected a whine, but that is with the tires. I don't like the stock tires and will change them when Momma needs new shoes anyway.
I test drove 2 different E's on rough roads specifically to determine the ride, as I have a very bad back and my husband has just had a total knee replacement - so a smooth ride is critical and while it is not a Lexus, it is quite smooth and comfortable. It does ride better than the RAV 4, Explorer, and the Jeep Liberty IMHO. Though not as good as my sons' new Dodge Dakota. (he only works 5 minutes from work and is not worried about mpg.) All in all - the Element is a keeper on the bad roads of life's journeys.

Used to drive a 2000 CRV and recently purchased E. I made a trip to Canada over the President's Day weekend from NJ. Ride not much different from my CRV, was bit more smooth on smooth highway. Does drive a little less smooth than CRV on dumpy roads, but hardly noticeable. Handled expectionally better in snow than CRV, drove it all the way back in the snow storm, never felt like I was about to loose control even when the wheels started slipping. ABS is great in snow.

When I sit in the passenger side my knees hit the golve compartment, have to move the seat back and I'm only 5 4. Minor inconvience since there's tons of leg room in back seat, can slide all the way back without troubling the rear passenger.

Can't wait for some aftermarket stuff to come out so I can play around. I don't think anybody can find the perfect car for them, just like you can't find the perfect woman for you (for me anyway).

Just my 2 cents.

I traded in my Mazda B2300 for the Element.... the handling differences are night and day! The Element doesn't handle quite as well as my wife's Accord, but I think it's pretty darn close. And with all that the Element has to offer in regards to handling/driving/etc., I prefer to drive the E over the Accord every day (which is why I get to drive the new car and my wife doesn't ;)

I can't believe anyone who would recommend buying a Kia would know anything about cars at all! You must be out of your ever loving mind! :twisted: [/quote]

Well, we have had a lot more people chime in about their feelings about the handling of the E.

For those who say it does not handle like a particular type of car, of course not, it is an SUV. It does come close, but it is a truck, but a special kind of truck.

[quote:bf69316155="jgrisanti"]I can only call the Element's handling extremely unacceptable. No engineer with adequate R&D time would have ever let this thing out the door. I am so disappointed that I am going to seek to trade it - at considerable loss to myself I am sure. [/quote:bf69316155]

Well your are the first I ever heard with this opinion. I can say I owned a 93 Civic, 2002 Accord and Toyota Tacoma and the E handles very well. Car & Driver and several other car mags also agree. I can fling around a turn just as smooth as I can in the Accord and the Highway driving is more smooth and quiet then all except the accord. I can't imagine how you could test drive it then buy it with this point of view. Well I hope you find another car more your style.

[quote:d3e494ac44="RML"](snip)it is a truck, but a special kind of truck.[/quote:d3e494ac44]

No, it isn't. It's a big car, IMO. It's more car-line than truck-like to me.

It's closer to a functional minivan than an SUV... but hey, what do I know?

Mfassett,

Hey, whatever you call it, however you view it. The Element is great. :D

We have had our Element for a month now and I am very happy with it overall. The one thing I have noticed on handling it hard acceleration on an on-ramp while having to turn the fron end got a little squirlly. Other than that I have really enjoyed the ride.


Michael

I am a new element owner and am very happy with the great easy going design and features, Adding accessories has been quite simple.

The number one concern I have is the front windsheld. I have had my element now for 3 weeks and about a week ago the windsheld cracked.
( I was told by the dealership it was a fracture, covered by honda)
Then this week a rock kick up and put a crack in the windsheld.
(I have the plastic bug guard in place) Too many instances lately small rocks have been hitting the window and am concern that due to the rather boxy design this may be a regular occurance?!? :?: Has anyone else had the same happen to them? :?: I would really like to know. :?:

Rmerc8

I have had my E for a bit over a month and have not had any problems with the windshield. I have the bug shield as well, doubt it helps much with the bigger stones.

Are you doing a lot of highway driving? Local driving? What is kicking up the stones? Are you right behind big trucks? There has to be some reason why it keeps happening.

It may be in part that windshield is close to the front end, but it would happen a lot to certain vans as well. Humm, I don't know. Anyone have any ideas?

I do a bit of both highway as well as city however, i would have thought that the bug shield would send any small stones flying over the windshield :?:
I really like this vehicle and hope I don't have to spend my time and money over time having windshield replaced :roll: Maybe someone can develop a rock shield which will help any stones be tossed over the windshield :roll: Well, I can always hope :shock:

i think you are a toyota saleman......my element is wonderful : :D

let me dive in with my 2 cents. this car has excellent handling , im serious ,it handles better then my 1988 vw scirocco i used to own. and that was a good handling car in its day. the only noise i hear are those not so good tires humming down the street. other than that it rides nice.

I only read the first pages of posts and am just adding from those...pardon me if the following sentiments were already added:

I love my Element. Previous to drinving this I was driving a 2001 Jeep Cheerokee Sport...V6, 4 wd, the whole shebang. Comparatively: The E rides much smoother. I am aware of this rolling feeling that some people get, but it is a lot smoother then my jeep. The wind noise is much less noticeable in the E then in my Jeep, also. Compared to my jeep, driving an E is like riding in a luxury car. It's smooth and responsive. The only handling problems I have ever noticed is if I accelerate around a corner from a stop, the back end swings a bit...but other then that, I happily passed my jeep on to my wife...who loves it more then me.

I live on a gravel road and so far so good! No rocks hittin me yet! :)

Stone chips is one of the hazards of driving. No matter what car I drive, I seem to get chips on my windshields. I had a couple of small pebbles bounce off of my E's windshield, but luckly no chips/cracks. Depending on the angle of the approaching stone/rock, the hood guard may not be able to block it. My advice is be careful who you follow and how closely you follow them. But sometimes it is inveitable.....

The handling of the E is one of its characteristics that is somewhat hard to explain to other people. But I feel that the E's handling is beautiful, unique and extremely enjoyable. I have ten+ yrs driving a Honda CivicSi which has the most jarring drive Ive ever experienced (but very helpful in the twistys). My wife was driving a Caprice Classic which is a floating couch on wheels. It offered no feel of the road and is not what i consider a good ride. Ive driven other SUVs for short periods of time (cherokee, explorer, escape). The elemets combination of smooth ride and road response is a highly engineered experience that I think is due in part to the quality of Honda's designers and engineers. Ive never driven a more enjoyable or better handling vehicle in my life. I hope others enjoy their E's as well.

I had posted my feelings on the stiffness of the ride and some bumpiness under Shoppin and test driving. ( Check it out ) .
I want to see if the brand of tires on some of the Elements are different. I had experienced this with another model and noticed all the difference in ride and handling. Could it be that Honda may not consistently put the same brand of tires on every single Element or the same shocks for that matter?
I found it to be true in the Nissan X-Terra. Even with the vehicle I have owned in the past tires make all the difference.

LittleDogBox
Arlington,Va.

I want to buy Your E. Please contact ME :wink:

I have GOODYEAR's on mine. But they're not that knobby~!

:?: I believe you should buck up some real cash and get a mdx if you want isolation! I bought my loaded 4x4 Ex for 19k and it is the best deal on the market, Smooth, refined, and decent handleing.....remember it really is a mini van! I have always had Audis which are about as smooth and refined as a car comes! You cant even begin to complain about the E's performance for 20k... go by Korean Crap You deserve it because you sound pretty cheap!

I came from a history of 4X4s and this drives much, much better. It does not drive better than my wife's Benz but then I payed over 20k less so I didn't expect it to. I expected it to drive like a jeep but it drives better so I'm happy. I also drive a Harley. I feel the wind a lot more and it's a lot noiser but then I figured that. In other words, I expect a vehicle to drive in the way it was designed to with the ride going up with the price. This car has surpassed my expectations based on function and price.

I have but 730 miles on my 2wd DX..did a 400 mile trip with it recently. I had to pick-up 2 air conditioners and a disassembled computer desk.
The weight was about 400 pounds and it rode better with the weight than it would've empty.
Somehow I expect more MPG. I wonder about the OD setting on my automatic transmission. I should think the OD setting is best got best mielage, but is it okay to keep it there for city driving?

mogulmousevt,

You should leave the overdrive setting on at all times. You get the best mileage. The only time you should take it off, is if you are going to not want the gears to shift up. For example if you are going down a steep hill.

This is not a CRV. It will be different. This is a back to basics vehicle. Stop expecting the world from this car. It is not perfect. It does take care of business for me. I guess I am easy to please.

:D

I've had my Element for 8 days and the thing has been flawless to date. I've taken turns at high speed that were impossible for me in anything but a sedan. Great traction in rain. Just the right amount of road feel for a vehicle of this type. Yes, you feel stuff. If you want no road feel, this is definitely NOT the vehicle to buy. I personally want to feel as connected to the road as possible and that vague mushy feeling was not what I wanted.

Fine radio. Comfortable seats. Good driving position. Amazing rear leg room. More than anticiapted rear storage space. Mileage with some serious commuter traffic has been at 22. No reason to expect less than 25 on the open road. Quieter inside than any of a number of much more expensive cars, SUV's and minivans I've had. And quite peppy even with automatic and awd. I wouldn't hesitate to buy it again.

I do wish there was a way to open at least one rear door independent of the front door. And what's this nonsense about me needing to hold the handle up to lock the front door without a key. What a pain :) I'm going to have to get a remote door opener just for that unless I'm missing something. But these are nitpicking details. The Element is a 3 run homer at worst with the makings of a grand slam long term.

[quote:1010f5846a="paulrubin"]And what's this nonsense about me needing to hold the handle up to lock the front door without a key. What a pain :) I'm going to have to get a remote door opener just for that unless I'm missing something.[/quote:1010f5846a]

Locking all the doors as you exit is an easy one handed operation. I think I use the thumb on my left hand after pulling on the door relaese with fingers on the left hand. Been doing this for 20 years so it is kind of unconcious... Did I miss the joke?

Ed

What do people expect to get out the element? If you lived in a 2 story 5 bedroom house on 12 acres and then moved to a cool loft in downtown new york you wouldn't be like "wow this place is sooo much better than our spacious and luxurious house we used to own". Test drive the element. If you don't like the handling or the way it rides (or anything else for that matter) don't buy it. Make an accurate, informed, and well-considered decision. I love my E. I love the way it rides. I like to be able to sense the road, to me this equals safety. I've driven many, many cars and nothing is worse than not be able to tell if your car is going in abnormal directions or becoming detached from the road til it is too late. If you want a soft ride that makes you feel like your floating along consider a camry or a highlander. For those of us with E's, we love it because it is different. Because we are getting bored of the same old cars. And because of the high quality and engineering Honda has put into it. To each his own, I think the loft is more unique and fun.

[quote:ce144427e1="MGT1"]What do people expect to get out the element? If you lived in a 2 story 5 bedroom house on 12 acres and then moved to a cool loft in downtown new york you wouldn't be like "wow this place is sooo much better than our spacious and luxurious house we used to own". Test drive the element. If you don't like the handling or the way it rides (or anything else for that matter) don't buy it. Make an accurate, informed, and well-considered decision. I love my E. I love the way it rides. I like to be able to sense the road, to me this equals safety. I've driven many, many cars and nothing is worse than not be able to tell if your car is going in abnormal directions or becoming detached from the road til it is too late. If you want a soft ride that makes you feel like your floating along consider a camry or a highlander. For those of us with E's, we love it because it is different. Because we are getting bored of the same old cars. And because of the high quality and engineering Honda has put into it. To each his own, I think the loft is more unique and fun.[/quote:ce144427e1]

:lol: Love your analogy :wink:

LittleDogBox
Arlington,Va.

[quote:ce1b149f30="Ed"][quote:ce1b149f30="paulrubin"]And what's this nonsense about me needing to hold the handle up to lock the front door without a key. What a pain :) I'm going to have to get a remote door opener just for that unless I'm missing something.[/quote:ce1b149f30]

Locking all the doors as you exit is an easy one handed operation. I think I use the thumb on my left hand after pulling on the door relaese with fingers on the left hand. Been doing this for 20 years so it is kind of unconcious... Did I miss the joke?

Ed[/quote:ce1b149f30]
I had a similar thought re: rear doors. maybe they could have been sliders.Could have made loading and exiting easier. but the suicide thing is great marketing. Or maybe the absence of a "B" pillar compelled them to this design. I like it but a pain when loading stuff int eh back seat from a shopping cart when parked next to another vehicle.

3 weeks,12 276 km,traveling west-east Canada,2 people,2 dogs,one Element.Should i say one elementhome?!?No complaints.

3 weeks,12 276 km,traveling west-east Canada,2 people,2 dogs,one Element.Should i say one elementhome?!?No complaints.

Glad to hear your Element is treating you very well, however the post before yours was submitted in March of 2003. For some reason I think the original poster is enjoying his Kia by now......

Anyway, congrats on your new E.

This thread amused me as well, even though it's as old as it is...the one thing, and I didn't read too much of the thread, is that the review video on Motorweek that you can find here in this forum from 2003, is that they obviously stated the Element's ride was stiffer and bumpier than that of its CR-V counterpart...it's also based of the Civic platform respectively, and rides about the same as my current 2004 Civic EX Coupe, which I love. You're right though, perhaps he's enjoying his Kia or Matrix now, and maybe he actually test drove one before hand when buying his Kia or Matrix to make sure it's what he really wanted before "wasting his money" on an Element :roll: This just proves that you should do your homework before buying, and if you realize you made the wrong decision, you shouldn't come on to a forum bashing the hell out of a car to a bunch of people that love it, and tell them the decision they made was poor and that they should run for the hills, even if it means they'll lose money on an immediate trade in :|

I'm picking mine up within a couple of weeks, and I've test driven all the models (LX, EX, A/T, M/T, 2WD, AWD), and I love every one of them...maybe this guys booty was too sensitive for all the seams and bumps in the road :lol:

Dave.

Actually, I think your ignorance has spoken quite loudly when you suggest that car buyers should jump into the black pit of doom and purchase a Kia.


What are you talking about? Kia's are great... When they break down after 20,000K , you can just leave them at the side of the road and go and buy another one! :razz:

I have 2 cents to put in, I was a little disappointed that the Element was not more plush inside and had a little more bumpy ride than my last vehicle.....however..... these are the characteristics of the vehicle I chose....if I would have wanted something else than I should have bought something else? Get my drift.........those little differences have become dear to me....the starkness of the interior now means, utility, easy to keep clean but Honda strong and endurable! I love my little red girl.............it is different, I am different......my mother used to say, why do you turn left when everyone else turns right????? That was a long time ago and I'm still that way...I don't want what everyone else has.............boring!!!!!!!
Anyone not happy with an E.........go get a beige Cavalier. Leave the E's tho those who deserve one!!

The guy that started this thread needs to buy a Buick.

I'll throw in my 2-cents...

The E is definately not meant for someone wanting a "cushy" or "luxury" type of ride. Just look at the demographic its marketed to -- young(er) people on the go, doing athletic stuff (biking, skiing, snowboarding, etc.) -- that's not a demographic that typically gives a crap about a comfy ride. They want to throw all their equipment in there and go.

I think the E is in the middle ground -- I have never felt vibrations in my steering column (though mine only has 1,300 miles on it so far). I have never felt any road vibrations or anything that I felt were distracting. I also am not bothered by road noise (though admittedly maybe it's because I have the XM up too loud, LOL). You DO feel the road to a certain extent (which I like), and the cornering is great, but definately on the stiffer-side. I dont find these to be defects though, just a matter of preference.

I live in Erie, PA (right on the lake) -- we get TONS of snow, and have a nasty freeze/thaw cycle that makes our roads very bad. We also have our fair share of dirt and tar & chip roads -- I go anywhere and do anything in my E in those conditions and haven't once been dissatisfied with its handling.

My first car was a 1999 Buick Regal LS. It had a beautiful, quiet, smooth ride and lots of nice features (auto-dimming mirrors, climate control, etc). Quite honestly, it spoiled me rotton for any other car I'd ever own. BUT I don't really like vehicles like that because you feel like you're "floating" down the road too much for my taste. I want to FEEL the tires grip, etc. And I love the E because of that. However, I've never found it annoying or distracting.

My other vehicle is a '98 Dodge Neon which is modified, including solid motor mounts and the bobble strut replaced with a solid mount. If you want to learn what vibrations in the steering column and road noise are, DRIVE THAT. (Haha.) The 99 Ford Taurus I had also had a LOT more vibration than the E. And the E is definately a FAR cry better compared to the shakes and rattles in my boyfriend's Jeep Wrangler or his mom's Cherokee.

Ultimately, I think that potential Element buyers should be aware that they're not buying a luxurious vehicle, but at the same time, they shouldn't be scared off by the first commenter's post. I went to my Honda dealership fully expecting to buy a CRV (I hadn't even considdered an Element because I always thought they were "ugly") -- After I test drove the CRV I was talking to the salesman and I mentioned I had a BIG hairy dog, and he suggested maybe I'd like the carpet-free interior of an Element -- I was skeptical, but after I drove it -- I was in love. So to each their own I guess....

And a PS to the Kia Sportage suggestion --
My boyfriend worked for a couple years at a dealership that sold Kia's -- every time they sold one, they literally laughed after the person walked out the door. It was a huge joke among the salesmen, mechanics, and management -- those vehicles are lousy POS's and they were well aware of it (and unfortunately still sold them to unsupecting customers). The mechanics also cringed whenever a Kia-owner called ... they knew it was going to be a lot of complaining and problems...

I only read the first few posts myself. But what I found funny was that for a person who professed to "know his cars" he didn't even understand that he was complaining about the wrong thing. I mean consensus seems to be that the Element actually handles pretty darn well for such a tall box with a short wheel base. Even if it doesn't provide cushy ride quality...

ron

I only read the first few posts myself. But what I found funny was that for a person who professed to "know his cars" he didn't even understand that he was complaining about the wrong thing. I mean consensus seems to be that the Element actually handles pretty darn well for such a tall box with a short wheel base. Even if it doesn't provide cushy ride quality...

ron

I agree with R11. The individual that started this thread doesn't really know his cars nor the purpose a particular vehicle is built for. Evaluate anything within the correct context! The CRV is not an E and vice versa even though they're both Hondas. Besides, if his claim of over 30 plus years of driving Hondas and Toyotas is true, then he missed the differences between these two brands of auto. For years, Honda, at least for the accords, shifted a little less smooth (AT) compared to the camrys. Honda calls it a "sportier" ride. I've driven a civic and two accords, all EX models, since 1990 and have racked up approximately 600,000 miles total thus far, driving all California and the Nevada with a few south of the border trips thrown in. Just my two cents worth. Again, jgrisanti, evaluate but within the correct context to be as objective as possible.

To me there is no comparison between the Element and the CRV. Drive and feel is basically the same but the E is much more functional. Love every aspect of it. Opinions are like a$$holes......everyone has one and most of them stink. Get rid of your E and get yourself a Toyota......hhhhmmm bad choice......hhhhmmmm.....Love the E so i am bias.

Boy this person really fired you all up!

From his first post I could tell he never owned the 'E'. He would have had to feel like a complete fool for test driving a car that he does not like and then buy it to boot.
Not sure who posted first to buy it from him...but that person knew right off
the bat that this guy had other reasons for posting here. If I was as dissatisfied as this guy I would have taken the attorney suggestion to sell in a heart beat!....problem was he never had one to sell!

I've owned Hondas since 1977...first one was a Civic CVCC 5 sp hatchback,,
best car I ever owned. My wife gave up a 2003 Odyssey for her 2005 KC
'E'. We are in our mid 50's and if you ask her how she likes her 'E' she will tell
you she loves it....more than the Ody at that!

also....Mac, thanks for letting the guy post.

BTW...Both my kids (Both married) own CRV's....the E does handle better :)

Lew

i havent noticed these characteristics, but as my other car is a 350z, my element feels like a cadillac in comparison. Ill have to pay closer attention next time i ride it and see, the only problem ive had in my E is driving it in any type of windy conditions over about 55mph, that thing is all over the road. I got to ride it for the first time in a bad snowstorm last year and was hugely pleased with its awd capabilities.

. . . I've owned Hondas since 1977...first one was a Civic CVCC 5 sp hatchback, best car I ever owned.

Lew

Right on Lew! I loved my CVCC 5-sp hatchback. Mine was white, what's yours? Just curious. :grin:

Right on Lew! I loved my CVCC 5-sp hatchback. Mine was white, what's yours? Just curious. :grin:

I can't believe someone else here owned one!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mine was yellow, with black and white checked seats, wood grain steering
wheel and wood shifting knob. I paid around 3k for that car and today if they
would make one I would buy it in a heart beat....What a car......
off the subject a little...ok a lot.....went to buy a new lawnmower today...
my heart was set on a new honda ...but ,....I use to buy toro before Honda
started making them....well, I came across a toro self-propelled..6.5 horse
personal pace model with electric start for $270.....the price seemed really
great so I bought it....got it home and was talking to the wife about it and
caught myself trying to justifiy not purchasing the Honda....It was $90 more
without the electric start (which I don't need)....I just have this funny feeling
I will be going back to get the Honda.....If this toro makes so much as a
chirp ...it's outta here :lol:

Ok back the forum......The E reminds me of the CVCC,,,,,I know your thinking
I'm crazy...but it does....the CVCC was soooo unique back in the 70's...
.......We averaged about 47 mpg with that car. That is the only car I have
ever missed in my life besides a Jeep Wrangler :shock: ...I have to admit
the Wrangler was a ball of fun.....yep, it broke down alot (ALOT)...but it
was the most fun of all the vehicles.......choice between the two?
I'd take the E first the CVCC second and the Wrangler 3rd.
Dang, why did I buy the Toro. :?

Toro = Good Lawn Mower! :)

I like my 24+ year old Lawn Boy mower...starts on the first pull every time.

i disagree with those that say the element handles better than the crv.

we have both in our family and the crv is a five speed while the E is auto.

by far i think the crv handles better than the E.....which subsequently bumps up it's fun to drive factor.

for example, the crv can handle a turn better than an E.

now.....with that said, i like the E better overall.

it's roomier up front and i like the styling better.

but the crv has better driving dynamics and a more comfortable and functional rear seat.

but the E has the room and style.

pick upon which preference you desire.

I really think the E drives better and handles the turns better,,,,that teeensy
little bit of width on the E makes the difference :)
The CRV is smoother but not by much and your right about the styling etc,,,
I'll retire with this car.....to each his/her own. :)