Aside from Honda, where can I get a copy of the shop manual? Also, how approx. much would it cost? Thanks

Go to http://www.helminc.com.

They are the source of the official shop manual(s) for Honda. Be aware that there are multiple manuals for the E, and you will want the "2003-2004 Element Service Manual", part number 61SCV02, which is $70.

There is an earlier, 2003 manual floating around out there which is still listed on the Helm site. It requires a sepearate supplement (also listed by Helm) to cover the 5-speed, 4WD versions.

Note also that while these manuals can be found on ebay, the 2003 versions rarely go for <$50, and the 2003-2004 versions rarely go for < what helminc sells them for. :)

Mike - I'm curious if you know what the other manual (electrical?) covers? The 2003-2004 version wasn't out when I got my service manual.

-brendan

Don't have it yet! Didn't have a chance to order until we were back from the trip. It'll likely get here next week and I'll let you know.

The Helm site now lists a "2003-2004 Element Electrical Troubleshooting Manual" for $50 that isn't available yet. If the main manual doesn't have the wiring diagrams we'll have to get that separately, I guess.

:?

The funny part it: the service manual seems (to my untrained eye) to have all the wiring diagrams I could conceivably need. So why a separate volume?

-brendan

Well, it is sort of a "we'll see" when it gets here. For instance, I had the Helm shop set for my old Escape, and it, too, had the wiring diagrams. However, it was missing key information that was in other manuals that were "generic" - generic in that they covered the full Ford lineup for certain common subassemblies with complex procedures. That said, the wiring diagrams for the Escape were in fact in their own book, of the three-book set.

That doesn't appear to be the case with the "Element Electrical Diagnostic Manual" since it's apparently model-specific. It makes me really wonder what that's all about. Hopefully they didn't break the electrics out of the main service manual since that's the first thing I'm going to need.

That said, maybe it is truly a "Diagnostic Manual", an aid to mechanics for dealing with electrical woes. Possibly a "If this happens, look here and take a reading on pin X of connector Y" sort of thing. My experience with dealership and independent mechanics when it comes to car electrics is mostly bad - too many don't know their... uhh... you know... and could use all the guidance they can muster.

:roll:

The wiring diagrams in the electrical manual are slightly different from the shop manual. They have the same information, but the electric manual drawings seem a bit clearer.

The electric manual also includes the operation details of some circuits, 150 photos of where each component is located, and an index of the wiring of every connector, over 220 of them.

Even though the set cost $120, it's money well spent. I'd love to hear from anyone here that bought the CD-ROM version. I bought the books because while looking up stuff on the CD might be eaiser, dragging a computer out the the car seemed a pain.

Ah! Good info - thanks, marky! 8)

I pondered the CD issue, too, but a book boots a lot faster. :wink:

Seriously... too often hands are a bit too dirty/greasy to want to mess with (or mess up?) the computer if I'm in the middle of something and need a torque spec, for instance. I do prefer using CDs for looking up parts and exploded views, however.

Gee, it would be very interesting to see a sample diagram posted here from the CD shop manual, say the electrical diagram. Just for reviewing the quality, of course!

Where can a paper version of the Element shop manual be purchased? Is it even available in a paper format, or is it a CD only thing?

How much is the manual?

Thanks.

http://www.helminc.com

$70 + $6.95 S&H for paper; I didn't see a CD version. They ship USPS.

They list a special electrical diagnostic manual, but you don't need it - basic schematics are in the main manual.

BTW, this is the official and only source. :shock:

Thanks Mike... they show a few different manuals...

1. 2003 Element Service Manual (61SCV00) $70.00

2. 2003-2004 Element Service Manual (61SCV02) $70.00

3. 2003 Element Electrical Troubleshooting Manual (61SCV00EL) $50.00

Which manual do I need; #1 or #2 above? I will guess that #2 is the right one, since it most iikely fixed all of the errors from #1. lol

Is #3 above the electrical manual that is not truly needed?

How good is the manual? Is it fairly detailed in how the interior comes apart and how things are wired?

Thanks Mike.

#2. It'll have everything you need.

I don't know why they still list #1 at the same price. It doesn't cover the 5 sp./4WD, and there is (or was) a supplement for another $30.

#3 is the one you don't need that I mentioned.

It's pretty detailed. I especially like that all fasteners are detailed, and they give you sponge... uh... fastener counts. :wink:

The 2003-2004 manual is literally brand new - I've had it less than a week and could smell the ink when opening the box. So I haven't had a chance yet to check the electrical diagrams firsthand, but what's there is on par with the other Helms manuals I had for the Ford Escape, which was very good - it never disappointed me.

My only complaint is that for what might be a basic operation (like pulling the alternator), if there are things in between they make you go find them separately, even if only a couple of steps.

Thanks for the further info. This will be my next purchase. Will get to it tomorrow.

Thanks for the info MikeQBF. Does the 2003-2004 Element Service Manual (61SCV02) $70.00 cover the 5 Speed manual transmission or do I still need to order the supplement?

The 2003-2004 manual covers everything, Jim. You don't need the supplement.

The supplement was only to cover the 2003 5sp/4wd, a mid-year addition which wasn't covered in the original 2003 manual. The 2003-2004 manual corrected the omission.

Thanks Mike...I plan on ordering my manual today.

Does anyone have a recommendation for a good service manual for a 2005 E? How about a good scource for one?

Thanks to everyone for the good info on this site.

Here is the link for the Honda Service Manual at handa.....that's where I got mine!

Check the very bottom of the page!

Honda Service Manual (http://www.handa-accessories.com/elementmaint.html)

You can try here as well:

http://www.helminc.com/

Yep...and it's $2.00 cheaper than the sponsor company....hmm, but they do offer the Honda inflatable chair for $36.00!

Helminc (http://www.helminc.com/helm/Result.asp?Style=&Mfg=AHM&Make=AHM&Model=ELEM&Year=2004&Category=&Keyword=&Module=&mscsid=2WWLLUTW9MEV9GXSWU40D1Q0BWUU1SME)

Yep...and it's $2.00 cheaper than the sponsor company....hmm, but they do offer the Honda inflatable chair for $36.00!

Helminc (http://www.helminc.com/helm/Result.asp?Style=&Mfg=AHM&Make=AHM&Model=ELEM&Year=2004&Category=&Keyword=&Module=&mscsid=2WWLLUTW9MEV9GXSWU40D1Q0BWUU1SME)

That would be cool if they did! lol Maybe H & A would give you the $2 if you were to buy the chair and service manual from them at the same time! :grin:

Where can I find a 2007 E service manual? I would like original Honda manual.

HandA (http://www.handa-accessories.com/elementmaint.html) sells them, so does Helm (http://www.helminc.com/helm/Result.asp?Style=&Mfg=AHM&Make=AHM&Model=ELEM&Year=2007&Category=&Keyword=&Module=&selected%5Fmedia=&mscsid=JN3V30XA77GQ8MDRSVDPJCC3E5XMCBR6)

looking for an indepth service manual for my 06 ex-p awd.hoping it includes engine/transmission overhauling,etc.that kind of in depth info.must ship to canada

Try Ebay for a deal.

Check this link. (http://motors.shop.ebay.com/_Manuals-Literature__W0QQType28035aZCarsTrucks8805f50fQQMak e247a0eZHonda42abae4Q3bhondaQQ_catZ34223QQ_pcatsZ3 4210Q2c6029Q2c6028Q2c6000?_rkw=element)

Or if you wanna go full price, Helm, Inc. will ship to Canada.

Check these. (http://www.helminc.com/helm/Result.asp?Style=&Mfg=AHM&Make=AHM&Model=ELEM&Year=2006&Category=&Keyword=&Module=&selected%5Fmedia=&mscsid=A09XJVGUXMRX8KUL210FALS6DVWS9ED0)

hopefully i posted this in the right spot,but i cant find a manual for my 06 e on ebay.i could only find 2005 or 2007.which is best besides buying both?i dont have much time left on them so sooner the better.thanks

Did you try H and A? I know the 2003-06 manual is available from Helm (http://www.helminc.com/helm/Result.asp?Style=&Mfg=AHM&Make=AHM&Model=ELEM&Year=2004&Category=1&Keyword=&Module=&mscsid=XH17U7D4DV0W9JARKEFL2M57XKM1FTNA).

P.S. Please fill in your profile.

(Threads merged and moved to Maintenance and Service.)

HandA is great - but I don't think they ship to Canada.

Keep an eye on the Ebay auctions there's '06's on there fairly often - if you're in a big hurry my guess would be the Helms route.

H and A sells it for $78 where Helm sells it directly for $75 :D

Does anyone know if there is a Factory Service Manual on this site or somewhere else to download? I've searched on here and can't seem to find anything.

Thanks.

H and A (http://www.handa-accessories.com/elementmaint.html)
Helm Inc. (http://www.helminc.com/helm/Result.asp?Style=&Mfg=AHM&Make=AHM&Model=ELEM&Year=2004&Category=1&Keyword=&Module=&mscsid=XH17U7D4DV0W9JARKEFL2M57XKM1FTNA)

Nuts, I was hoping this site would have the service manual in pdf. Does anyone else know of a link or do we have to pay +$70....
Thanks
Chris

Does anyone have a used service manual for sale? I have an '03...
Thanks,
Chris

None on for a decent price right now, but keep an eye on ebay - I bought mine there a few months ago for $35.

Nuts, I was hoping this site would have the service manual in pdf. Does anyone else know of a link or do we have to pay +$70....
Thanks
Chris

Buy the tech manual Chris and you will not be sorry. The first time you use it to do a repair on your E it will pay you back. I am not aware of any links where you can download it.:D

Thanks for the info. It's funny, I have a '05 toyota tacoma and the owners site has complete pdf files to the shop manual. I did buy the 3 vol set for the Taco from ebay ($100) though as I like to have the hard copy when working in the garage.
Chris

Nuts, I was hoping this site would have the service manual in pdf. Does anyone else know of a link or do we have to pay +$70....
Thanks
Chris

I was thinking the same. They are definitely worth their weight in gold, but man I'm a cheap ass.

Buy the service manual if you are going to keep you E.

I'm looking for a Service Manual for my '05 with MT.

Any thoughts on a best source?

Helminc.com has it for $52.50, but then they tack on about $11 in s/h.

I'd prefer a paper manual for ease of use in the garage, unless someone has a CD for a good price.

Thanks!

FastEddieB@mac.com

H and A also carries them. There is no CD version, afaik.

Thanks.

H & A wants $58.80 plus $13.04 shipping.

Looks like the helminc.com price is fair.

I went ahead and ordered one - total was $63.62 w/shipping/handling and 7% GA sales tax.

Should save that and more with my first maintenance adventure (due for MT oil change, plus I want to look at the brake pad pin lubrication - pads still look good)

Thanks again.

So I saw on Ebay a Service manual on CD, like a Chilton Service manual, for 10 bucks. anyone ever bought these before? is it a good deal or a scam? looking to start doing my own service and would like a good guide, any other suggestions?
thanks,

H&A sells the real honda service manual. Price is kind of steep but it has all the info you'll ever need and you can be sure its correct. Plus when you order it you can pick up some oil filters and other goodies to kind of save on shipping.

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

The manual is at the bottom

I'd highly recommend the real one from HandA also. I love my dead tree edition! :D

If you want a copy of the "Ebay" element manual just pm me. It's not the best but has basic knowledge and some torque specs. The real deal manual from Honda is by far better but also by far more expensive so it's another case of "you get what you pay for".

thanks for the info everyone!

Keep watching ebay, once in a while a Real manual pops up for a pretty good price.

And occasionally on the Trading Post here, too. But if you need it, you need it.

I'm just trying to figure out if anyone has made a maintenance manual for the 2003 element that's like the Chilton Manuals on other vehicles?

O.K. I'm realizing I definitely the service manual to learn and perform everything beyond the 65K mile mark. Where's the best place to get it?

I think the gear box for shifting needs to be lubricated, because when I go to shift it feels a little "sticky". As in, it doesn't always connect, then it grinds or pops back into neutral.

Is this lubricated by the manual transmission fluid? I'm going to change the MTF soon, so if that's it I imagine that would definitely help. But, again I'm still new at this stuff. I did a search, and didn't see this covered (did I miss it?) I did see the MTF DIY, which as I said I'll be trying.

Before you experiment with other brands, try putting in new Honda MT fluid. I noticed an improvement in smoothness changing gears. Used to be a bitch getting into reverse sometimes (yes at a complete stop); now much better, though still not perfect. Don't forget to buy crush washers! IIRC there are two sizes, one for the drain plug and one for the fill.

Service manual:
H and A (http://www.handa-accessories.com/elementmaint.html) (toward bottom of page)
Helms (http://www.helminc.com/helm/Result.asp?Style=&Mfg=AHM&Make=AHM&Model=ELEM&Year=2004&Category=1&Keyword=&Module=&mscsid=XH17U7D4DV0W9JARKEFL2M57XKM1FTNA)

Crush washers: 14mm and 20mm, yes. I think I read those sizes in the MTF DIY threads 'round here.

I'm just trying to figure out if anyone has made a maintenance manual for the 2003 element that's like the Chilton Manuals on other vehicles?

The best place to get it is from HelmInc.com. They publish the OEM shop manuals for Honda/Acura. It's expensive (~$70), but it's 1800+ pages dedicated to your one year/model. If you plan on doing any "real" maintenece on your car, this is a worthwhile investment that you will NEVER regret.

Where can I purchase a Shop Manual not a service manual but the one mechanics use.....is there a cd of the shop manual? any Honda mechanics out there?:grin:

It can be purchased from one of our site sponsors; H&A Accessories. Click here (http://www.handa-accessories.com/elementselect/manual.html) and you can go right to purchasing it.

Shop manual = service manual. The one you can buy is exactly the same as the one Honda dealerships use. Paper only.

ramblerdan,

Thanks for the info because I didn't see it......

Looking for 2010 EX 4wd.....I guess a 2009 would work being there's no difference......Also, does this manual have EX and the SC included in the same manual calling out part number differences.

2009 should be fine. You won't find a lot of part numbers, though—special tools, mostly.

ramblerdan,

Thanks for the info because I didn't see it......

Looking for 2010 EX 4wd.....I guess a 2009 would work being there's no difference......Also, does this manual have EX and the SC included in the same manual calling out part number differences.

I keep telling you guys, don't bother with HandA. Who cares if they are site sponsors. HelmInc.com has everything:

http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?session=53B60F34AEDE4839B7F5322A2CE74 FC9&class_2=AHM&mk=Honda&yr=2010&md=Element&dt=&module=&from=result&Style=helm&Sku=61SCV08&itemtype=N

I use Alldata Repair, can access virtually any vehicle made since 1980, also have used Helm. Alldata has exactly the same info as Honda/Helm. I like it better than paper manuals, its all accessed via DVD on my computer. Alldatadiy.com allows you one vehicle for 26.95 a year or 44.95 for 5 years.

I have a 2003 and found a good deal on a 2007 service manual and electrical troubleshooting guide. Would it be too different to get a 2007 manual for my 2003? I don't think they change too terribly much.

Actually there's a significant amount of electrical and power train changes from 03 to 07, though the body is essentially the same. New ECU, different O2 sensor, intake, stereo head unit, steering area electronics, etc. I guess it depends on what you need to do.

I keep telling you guys, don't bother with HandA. Who cares if they are site sponsors. HelmInc.com has everything:

http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?session=53B60F34AEDE4839B7F5322A2CE74 FC9&class_2=AHM&mk=Honda&yr=2010&md=Element&dt=&module=&from=result&Style=helm&Sku=61SCV08&itemtype=N

I'd tell you don't bother with Helm unless you want to pay significantly more for the same words :rolleyes:

H&A was $2 more than Helm for my '03-'06 book. :eye:

H&A was $2 more than Helm for my '03-'06 book. :eye:

Helm is showing $30 more for the 2008+ and around $100 more for the 07 and earlier manuals.

...and around $100 more for the 07 and earlier manuals.

What are you smoking? Maybe your looking at the wrong thing...

03 only $52.50 (not available at HandA)
http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?session=97F0A97E93E4475A97B5C7353C8A7 537&class%5F2=AHM&mk=Honda&yr=2003&md=Element&dt=&module=&from=result&Style=helm&Sku=61SCV00&itemtype=N

03 to 05 $52.50 (not available at HandA)
http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?session=97F0A97E93E4475A97B5C7353C8A7 537&class%5F2=AHM&mk=Honda&yr=2004&md=Element&dt=&module=&from=result&Style=helm&Sku=61SCV03&itemtype=N

03 to 06 $56.50 ($58.80 at HandA)
http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?session=97F0A97E93E4475A97B5C7353C8A7 537&class%5F2=AHM&mk=Honda&yr=2006&md=Element&dt=&module=&from=result&Style=helm&Sku=61SCV04&itemtype=N

07 $56.50 ($58.80 at HandA)
http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?session=97F0A97E93E4475A97B5C7353C8A7 537&class%5F2=AHM&mk=Honda&yr=2007&md=Element&dt=&module=&from=result&Style=helm&Sku=61SCV05&itemtype=N

07 to 08 $125 ($120 at HandA)
http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?session=97F0A97E93E4475A97B5C7353C8A7 537&class%5F2=AHM&mk=Honda&yr=2008&md=Element&dt=&module=&from=result&Style=helm&Sku=61SCV06&itemtype=N

07 to 09 $125 (not sold by HandA)
http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?session=97F0A97E93E4475A97B5C7353C8A7 537&class%5F2=AHM&mk=Honda&yr=2009&md=Element&dt=&module=&from=result&Style=helm&Sku=61SCV07&itemtype=N

07 to 10 $150 (not sold by HandA)
http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?session=97F0A97E93E4475A97B5C7353C8A7 537&class%5F2=AHM&mk=Honda&yr=2010&md=Element&dt=&module=&from=result&Style=helm&Sku=61SCV08&itemtype=N

BTW: HelmInc's standard shipping on one book is $6.95. HandA is $8.70

What are you smoking? Maybe your looking at the wrong thing...

Was looking at the link you posted, but I won't say I did a lot of research into it... :roll:

I found one for the 2003 - 2008 Element from www.tradebit.com. I paid $17.99 for it and downloaded it to my PC and then burnt it to a CD. It is in a .pdf format so you need adobe acrobat reader, which is free.

I used it this weekend to replace the lower seat cover on my 03 EX and it was a breeze. I also got the trim tool set and the hog ring pliers (both straight and angled) from Harbour Freight for less than $18.00 so it was a good experience for my son to learn how to do a fairly step intensive but easy repair on "his" car.

I found one for the 2003 - 2008 Element from www.tradebit.com. I paid $17.99 for it and downloaded it to my PC and then burnt it to a CD. It is in a .pdf format so you need adobe acrobat reader, which is free.

That's tempting considering the price. However, I'm wondering how legit the seller is as the price seems to good to be true.

Not sure what you mean by "how legit the seller is". If you're refering to copyright infringement, this site has been around a long time and carry's manuals for all kinds of items, not just automotive.

If you're wondering about how safe it is to buy from them, well, all I can say is my experience was just fine.

The company is based in Germany, and their laws regarding copyright infringement are way more draconian than the US, so if they were doing things on the sly, then I'm sure the EU would be on them like they are trying to do to Bill Gates and MicroSoft.

You can pay for it from the dealer, from Helm, or where ever you like. I was just making the information available for all. :-)

Not sure what you mean by "how legit the seller is". If you're refering to copyright infringement, this site has been around a long time and carry's manuals for all kinds of items, not just automotive.

If you're wondering about how safe it is to buy from them, well, all I can say is my experience was just fine.

The company is based in Germany, and their laws regarding copyright infringement are way more draconian than the US, so if they were doing things on the sly, then I'm sure the EU would be on them like they are trying to do to Bill Gates and MicroSoft.

You can pay for it from the dealer, from Helm, or where ever you like. I was just making the information available for all. :-)

Tradebit simply rents server space for "self-publishers" and provide a mechanism for the user's to charge others for access to what they store there. They state that it is the user's responsibility to abide by all applicable copyright laws - and they do not look at or police what is uploaded unless they get complaints. So basically, unless these are being uploaded and sold by Honda, whoever is uploading the OEM service manuals is selling them as pdfs in violation of copyright.

Tradebit simply rents server space for "self-publishers" and provide a mechanism for the user's to charge others for access to what they store there. They state that it is the user's responsibility to abide by all applicable copyright laws - and they do not look at or police what is uploaded unless they get complaints. So basically, unless these are being uploaded and sold by Honda, whoever is uploading the OEM service manuals is selling them as pdfs in violation of copyright.

I figured that was the case. You might not agree with the price but purchasing a legit copy ensures that the people that put the time into making the product get paid.

mkh, the manuals would have to be sold by Honda or an authorized reseller otherwise, HandA and others would not be able to sell the manuals either.

I figured that was the case. You might not agree with the price but purchasing a legit copy ensures that the people that put the time into making the product get paid.

mkh, the manuals would have to be sold by Honda or an authorized reseller otherwise, HandA and others would not be able to sell the manuals either.

Right, I lump Authorized Resellers like H & A in with Honda, as they are really "Honda-Local", via their Dealership agreement with Honda.

And I also agree with purchasing only legit copies. I know the new price is a stretch for some, so then just buy used - keep an eye on ebay. I picked up both the Shop Manual and the Electrical Shop Manual 2nd hand as a bundle on ebay for under $40.

I figured that was the case. You might not agree with the price but purchasing a legit copy ensures that the people that put the time into making the product get paid.

Yea, I checked out tradebit and e-bay...Man I want that service manual so bad but just can't afford it right now. I think H and A $57 is def a fair price and legit. I can't bring myself to paying for snipped copies for $10 or as little as $5 for a instant download on e-bay. 5 or 10 years ago I wouldn't have given it a second thought.

I think I will go to the dollar store and by a keyboard cover :) because this site is jam packed with great information on what I need to fix or repair..

The manual will go on my 2010 x-mas wish list.