Just wanted to let everyone know to steer clear of one of the local southern CA dealers... Family Honda in Rancho Santa Margarita. I am a new owner of a '04 SOP EX 4WD and I have been to dealer 8 times in 2 months for non performance related issues (a scratch noted at time of delivery on steering wheel trim and had some accessories installed). This dealer's service mechanics must be UNTRAINED monkeys, cause everytime I go in they screw up something else. What's even more amazing to me is that after trying to discuss this with the service manager and general manager I have never heard back from either of them. Forget all the nice amenities they have at the dealer (batting cage, basketball courts, puttings greens etc.) cause they have POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE and a TERRIBLE SERVICE DEPARTMENT. Just a warning folks.

hey rossman, nice model selection!

too bad about the RSM dealer. have you taken it elsewhere for better service?

anyone have a suggestion for service in OC?

Not yet... was hoping somebody here could suggest a better dealer to bring the car to when its ready for its first service. The RSM dealer has finally taken care of all the issues THEY created and although its located where I live, I will never go back.

i haven't needed any service (knock plastic!) yet, but maybe some of the other OC people can help.

the only thing i've heard is that norm reeves (HB and cypress) are service nightmares, but its second=hand.

Ya... no need for real service yet..."knock on composite panels" hehehe I'm hoping somebody else here might post a good dealer to go to. Santa Ana Honda and Irvine Honda are the next closest to me so hoping they are good choices. Love the car though and there's no manufacturer related issues to report and that's all I care about nowadays! Thanks for your input...

i haven't used them except for delivery tasks but the service dept at Honda World in OC seems like a good place. their manager cut me some deals at delivery.

Power Honda located in Costa Mesa. 8)

denru,

could you expand a bit? what service did they do? what did they charge? other comments?

that would be very convenient for me if they are good.

thanks

I recommend Buena Park Honda. At time of delivery, gave me coupon book so that at half the oil changes I need, I get for free. And at the end of the book, they'll give me a good discount on my next purchase from them. They do take some time but they'll get the job done right.

I purchased my Element from Power Honda on Harbor Blvd. in Costa Mesa sixteen months ago and I couldn't be happier with the buying experience, deal and after the sale service that this dealer has provided. Folowing delivery I returned to the service department for fog light installation and minor warranty issue (rocking seat) as well as basic service. They made it relatively easy and painless. 8)

dude for sure hit up Power Honda in Costa Mesa. theyre good and nice as hell. we got a 03 element there and they were way cool, cut somewhat of a deal but their service department is great. if they finish work early theyll call ya and yeah they wash ur car every time...even with an oil change (do most places do this? i have a 350z and my dealer doesnt do jack **** for me as far as detailing goes...even when i had to spend a grip on tranny problems etc) we traded in our 03 for an 04 at Norm Reeves...i dunno, that place was slow with everything concerning the sale and the sales people...they werent so great. any news on their service? im still taking mine to POWER HONDA!!!

ya costa mesa and also family honda is good too. nissan guys suck ass. maybe they are willing to host an element gathering

thousand oaks honda is a good pick

Santa Ana Honda.... Santa Ana, California. The absolute worst buying experience, ever!!!! Lying, games, switcheroos, let me talk to my manager... all of the stereotypical shifty car dealership tactics wrapped up into one little nightmarish package. We will absolutely never EVER buy from them again... would rather have a root canal.