Wind Sheild issues [Archive] - Honda Element Owners Club Forum

: Wind Sheild issues


tamer_hanna
12-14-2003, 09:28 AM
Dear Honda,
I believe that there are a lot of people with similar windsheild issues like myself.
I got a very small chip under the driver wiper (which is near impossible to happen) that caused my windshield to crack. It did not take long for that crack to propagate all the way to the center. Could you please validate with your OEM manufacturer if it is possible to have a windshield that is more resistant to such issues. Also the price tag on the windshiel is not that affordable especially when the insurance companies tend to increase your primium once you start declaring stuff like that.
Thanks

robri
12-20-2003, 06:13 AM
I second this request. Mine cracked spontaneously overnight, and wasn't caused by impact.

spldr
12-23-2003, 10:29 PM
Mine cracked this morning while doing zero miles per hour in my parking space at work. Wasn't there when I parked, came out and walla.

Dealer claims impact by a grain of sand sized "rock", and won't fix. I claimed unacceptable and filed with NHTSA and will also jump through the compliant circle hoops with Honda and scream until this gets resolved.

I am very dissapointed in Honda. This is NOT the Honda I have known and trusted for close to 20 years.

It is obvious from the stock line Honda has been giving (It alsmot reads like a memorized speach) that I have been reading here, that "other" message board, and at the NHTSA complaints that Honda is trying to hide something.

I am at a loss by this behavior. My past experience with Honda quality and service, new or used, has been nothing but outstanding, proffessional, pleasant and easy. This is a total turn around for them.

orangelmnt
01-12-2004, 10:20 PM
just happened again......a cracked windshield
first time the dealer was no help, maybe i waited too long and it looked like a huge rock hit it (it actually started overnight under the whiper motor)
i paid for it out of my own pocket and now it happens again
this sucks...
i will try the dealer but they don't care, unless you are paying or buying a car
too bad honda...starting to wonder if a scion is a better choice

Windchill
01-22-2004, 03:55 PM
...."that Honda is trying to hide something." I am at a loss by this behavior. My past experience with Honda quality and service, new or used, has been nothing but outstanding, proffessional, pleasant and easy. This is a total turn around for them."_______________

I think those of you with C/W/S must become much more ASSERTIVE. I've been lucky so far-no cracks. But I talked to the dealer and the parts dept. and they were totally unware of the winshield problem or the lack of grill protection. And I was surprised to find that the two dealers with whom I deal were completly unaware of the EOC website! You may have to take a hard lilne which most people find rude. But Honda remains inscrutable as there is really no bad press, boycotts, or demonstrations to contend with. In responding to a survey I stated:

"But I do have a suggestion. Inform customer of some possible items that could lead to a misunderstanding or unpleasant surprise after purchase, e.g., vulnerability of radiator and condenser coils to damage caused by rocks or debris. Honda hasn't a grill guard in stock , prompting statements like, "Why Honda has not responded to this glaring design defect completely mystifies me." But some smart people offer solutions, one of which I will soon adopt or purchase a Cloud Rider Grill. Honda wouldn't fare worse by carefully mentioning this to a buyer. To the contrary I think most would applaud their honesty. As for cracked windshields, the issue seems to be festering and could eventually seriously tarnish Honda's reputation. I would recommend scanning the Element Owners Club website as it contains lots of pertinent stuff. And the posters are not immature whiners, in fact most are complimentary of Honda, but many are surprised at their lethargy in acknowledging problems prompting comments like:

"I personally chalk it up to what seems to be hondas corporate attitude of burying its head in the sand when it comes to listening to its customer base. the dealerships know, and nod in sad agreement. why isn't honda listening and reacting? guess business must be good!" Still pretty tame
I know, but how about picketing an auto show or having a group demonstration at same? Remember the cliche-every dissatisfied customer will talk to at least eleven people about his/her problems.
End of sermon.