I like my E and for what it is - and what I paid - its definely ok

- Road noise is attrocious - pls spend $15 on sound proffing interior
- The instrument panel is hard to read during the day - either needs white back ground on gauges or new layout - unsafe trying to read the gauges in traffic

- The rear seats should not heed to have the head rests removed whne they are pulled up to the side

- needs more little and medium sized storage areas - under seats and in the interior in general

[quote:9d791cdc2d=" "]- The rear seats should not heed to have the head rests removed whne they are pulled up to the side[/quote:9d791cdc2d]

Actually, the rear seats do not have to have the head rests removed, just pushed all the way down. The seatbacks do, however, need to be pushed "beyond flat" before folding them up against the side. If you don't do this, then the headrests will get sorta crushed by the back door.

I concur with each of the items (at least to some degree).

-brendan

Somebody posted a while ago a type of tool box that fit exactly under the rear seats for storage. They sell them at Home Depot. Black with yellow removable interior sections. That might help you with your storage. If you can't find the thread, I can go out and look at mine in my E to see the brand.
Steve

Honda, PLEASE redesign the freakin' change box so that you don't have to be a contortionist to use it!

Change box, handy but requires my 14 month olds hands to get anything out of it.
I still just don't understand what the deal is with the gauges; I just don't have a problem with them. On the other hand I don't know what you folks are doing looking at them all the time. I rarely need to check them. Perhaps I just fall into the exact demographic this cluster was engineered for.
Road noise is pretty awful, but for something who's closest cousins in versatility are the cargo van and the jeep, road isn't all that bad. It could defiantly stand for any little amount of sound proofing. I mean what's the cost of that cheap crap auto maker’s use that looks like my collection of pocket/dryer lint, like $1/par vehicle.
I'm not sure where they would go, but some kinda extra storage would be great, but I bet Honda would say we gave you that giant storage pocket called the rear of the car. You know 5 feet by 3 feet.

The J

The change box was designed with a "Certificate of Deposit" style bank account in mind: The money goes in and stays there, but just like a CD, there is an early withdrawal penalty...in this case, cramped fingers. :(

One thing.

Windshield.

Figure it out HONDA, and I'll buy another "E"!

Regarding that coin bin on the left side of the driver's dash - I don't have much problem accessing it - but then I'm one of those special people who can use their left hand with some dexterity. However, without toll roads or bridges in the area, I don't have much need for coins in the car - so I just keep a small measuring tape there, maybe also a small pocket knife. So it is no big deal.

I don't have much problem with the gauges. The 60mph marking is obscurred if I set the seat height too high, but I can still see the needle.

Regarding noise, you should drive a 1st generation RAV4 before complaining about the Element. RAV4 owners are experts on adding Dynamat, Brownbread and other sound absorbing materials. If you poke around under various interior panels you will see that Honda does use sound insulating material. There are various patches of that white fluff. Under the spare tire there are some patches of sound absorbing material. Could they have used more? Sure. I don't know how much would be needed to make a significant difference, though.

paulj

[quote:4e640d26b6=" "]The change box was designed with a "Certificate of Deposit" style bank account in mind: The money goes in and stays there, but just like a CD, there is an early withdrawal penalty...in this case, cramped fingers. :([/quote:4e640d26b6]

I agree about the coin box. It is frustrating because you can’t really see what is inside as you fish for coins. A group of slots that would hold toonies, loonies, quarters and dimes would serve much better as it would make it easier to quickly grab exact change.
In fact, if they took the coin box out and didn’t replace it, I wouldn’t miss it.
I would like to see removable slots for the centre console. These would be like the slots that come with the driver’s armrest accessory. I would love to see a slot that could be used to separate the back part of the centre console that you could easily store loose change without having the coins constantly going into the cup holders.

First: Windshield. Second: Front end protection. All the rest are just details.... Having a car bust up--that's an entirely different situation.

I know the Element was designed with young males as the target buyer but some of us ladies would like a mirror to check things out! Also handy for contact lense problems!

I would like to see Honda make a better Tire choice based on they way people are useing the Element. Since it's been out for a couple years now I think something other than the Wranglers would be a significant improvement for most owners. The same is true of my Prelude.

Would you care to nominate an alternate tire (and size, if different)? Remember some people have moved up in size 2-4% and more of an all terrain tire. Others have dropped down a bit, favoring a performance tire. Or is there a better tire that stays in the middle ground?

paulj

As posted above, WINDSHIELD, WINDSHIELD, WINDSHIELD.

As we get deeper into fall, I also realize how much I would appreciate heated mirrors--at least as an option.

Hi paulj

I was thinking as far as size goes if it were Honda makeing the change, size related changes (speedometer, gearing etc.) wouldn't be a problem. I'm a bit new to a vehicle with "Light Truck" tires but I have experience with some of the high performance tires available today and find them unbelievable. I wouldn't suggest a high performance for the E but in light of the limited GVWR it seems a more passenger car oriented tire, lower aspect ratio, more stick might be appropriate.

The Bridgestone RE92's that came on my Prelude were also a poor choice. A switch to RE750's made a new car out of it.

I drive on pavement, so a 70-series tire will never be my first choice regardless of vehicle. Over a decade ago 60-series tires (regardless of wheel diameter) were considered the norm for "decent" or upscale cars. Nowadays it's very possible to design an OEM suspension that still rides well on 50-series tires.

Nevertheless I don't disagree with Honda's choice of going with a 70-series tire for the Element based on it's intended audience --- whether or not that audience is who's buying.

Thank goodness there's a burgeoning aftermarket, but it should still be to Honda's advantage to offer something else besides another wheel that's the same size as standard.

Take for example VW, who offers a range of 16" and 17" rims for cars that sometimes only come with 15s or 16s.

I agree. It seems the biggest disadvantage to a 70 series is the lack of availibility in anything but light truck oriented tires. I remember being really happy when I found some 70 series radials (as opposed to "Wide Ovals") for my '68 Z28. I guess that tells you I'm not quite in the Target Market group!

I'm not sure what GVWR has to do with the choice of light truck v performance tire. There are SUVs that are lighter than the Element. The RAV4 is almost 1000 lb lighter, yet uses the same stock tire size, with lower recommended pressures.

Toyota does address the tire size issue by offering, as a sport option, 235/60/16 tires, about 2.5% smaller.

On the other hand those of us who treat the Element as a camping and recreational vehicle might prefer a suspension modification that lets the larger 235/70/16 be the stock size. In fact at one point in the design process that size was apparently the target. However a quick glance at my table of tire sizes and their availability does not show a good alternative to that tire in a lower profile (e.g. 245/60/17 has very limited selection).

Tire selection remains a compromise between conflicting visions of what the Element should be.

paulj

I would think light truck tires need to be capable of carrying more weight as you might do in a truck. As a result tire construction would need to reflect that. On the other hand a passenger vehicle with a limited GVWR be it a RAV4 or Element doesn't need that ability. I don't expect to do much off road so a light truck tire would seem to have little to offer.

On the other hand, we just started to get some rain around here so I've been able to play around with the AWD a little for the first time. Seems to work quite well. Kind of fun asking it to kick in while turning. Might not be as much fun with stickier tires!

A glance at tire specs (at Tirerack or a manufacture's site) shows that weight rating of a tire varies mostly with size, not tread style. For sizes that fit the Element this is around 1800 lb per tire at maximum pressure. In the past there were more differences, including differing numbers of plys, but now tire construction is more standardized. On a few tire models and sizes have seen listings for both a standard and heavy duty version, but that is more likely in sizes that fit full size pickups.

paulj

It wold be interesting to see someone do a test with different sizes and type of tires on the E.

[quote:170190b332=" "]It wold be interesting to see someone do a test with different sizes and type of tires on the E.[/quote:170190b332]

There is a thread that attempts to collect experiences with different tires:

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=9618

Someone also posted part of the results of a Consumer Reports comparison of 20 SUV tires in a size a bit large than the Element's stock. Retailers like Tirerack also collect consumer opinions and rank tires based on these reports. However pulling objective information for these reports is difficult.

paulj

I'm a new--four weeks--owner, and I love my Element. My normal commute is about 75 miles each day. Honda, if you are reading this, consider fuel tankage to allow 400+ miles/tank.

I say put a real CAR battery in the E instead of that little motorcycle or go-cart battery that comes with it!

Any chance possible fellow Honda people..............please figure out a way to make the top hatch lock down while the bottom of the hatch is down. This will definitely come in handy for hauling long materials.

what kinds of long loads do you haul, and for what distances and speeds? How do you secure them?

I don't know if I should be suggesting this or not, but if you can find a ring or hook about the size of the striker on the lower tailgate, you can hook that onto the lock mechanism at the bottom of the upper tailgate. You could then secure this with rope or bungee to some point forward in the cabin. I wouldn't use this for anything longer than carrying a small boat from campsite to beach and back.

paulj

BIG thing with me the first time I used the cruise control - please, please, PLEASE make the cruise controls backlit so we can see them in the dark!! It's like an accident waiting to happen trying to figure out the doohickey buttons @ 70mph on the highway in the dark!! Changing that would be HUGE.

Also - I (and the dog!!!) would really like back back windows that roll down rather than just vent.

As others have mentioned - a front sun(MOON)roof would be bitchin!

Other nice features - the compass/temp rearview mirror.

intermittant (sp?) wipers with more "intermittants" it's nice to make it faster or slower as needed - the loaner Civic I'm driving has this, as did the old Aerostar I got used to having that feature on ;)

sideview defrosts!


Hmmm...seems there was something else - but I'll have to wait til it gets out of the shop and I can drive it again to remember, probably.

* A redesigned center console with closed storage, or at least an option for one.

* The same floor, but one that grips better.

* Optional front floor mats that are contoured to match all the nooks and crannies, without being required to purchase the rear mat as well.

* Everone seems to be doing the HD type screens for the lower grill, so a redesign here would be nice.

* A power door lock on the passenger side.

* Get rid of the "styling" slats in the door storage compartments, as this invites items to fall out between the slats.

Let's see...

Haven't had a windshield issue... I believe that 03 (and maybe some early 04) owners had problems, but I think they've adequately addressed the issue.

I agree with the larger gas tank. It's hard to complain about MPG, being such a heavy, brick shaped vehicle, but I'd like to go farther between refills (which ultimately saves gas, if you think about it).

I don't know how they'd handle this, but I the total passenger/cargo weight "restriction" is just absurd. I know people routinely "overload" their Es without any problems, but that weight limit is just ridiculous.

Haven't had an issue with the "change" storage - never needed it, never used it. Nor have I had an issue with the dash - I can see all the gauges at a glance without any problems, day or night. The only exception is when I'm leaving work and I'm in the parking garage and I put my sunglasses on before leaving the garage, but then that's my fault.

Things do slide around too much... it's a shame we have to add all this aftermarket stuff to keep stuff from sliding around, even in gentle turns. The first week I had the E I picked up my 27" television from the repair shop. The E was brand new - it was the first full day I owned it, and didn't have anything to hold or tie down cargo. That TV slid all over the place, I'm surprised I got it home in one piece and didn't destroy the interior. That sucker weighs enough that on carpet or most other surfaces, it wouldn't have budged, and I only live a couple of miles from the repair place, and wasn't driving fast.

Somehow adding a full size spare would be great.

An addition of a 12v outlet in the center on the floor (just below the subwoofer on EXs) would be great - that's where it is on the Odyssey, and that's the best place for when we strap in our TV and stuff for long journeys.

Overall, after 3 months, I'm still really really happy with it... if I could change just one thing, it'd be the size of the gas tank.

The change box was designed with a "Certificate of Deposit" style bank account in mind: The money goes in and stays there, but just like a CD, there is an early withdrawal penalty...in this case, cramped fingers. :(

I thought the withdrawl penalty was the coins that fell into the floor.

A front moonroof as others stated. I feature that would be awesome is if the rear window could be a powered window so it could go up and down.

which 'rear window'? There are 6 behind the driver.

Don't know if anyone mentioned this yet, but how about painted panels the same color as the rest of the vehicle. Hence why i bought the true black on black :twisted: :twisted:

I don't know...one of the aspects I like about the E is it's distinctive two tone colour.

My beef: I would have liked to see Honda throw in a sixth gear for highway driving. I understand it's a box. I know it's heavy. I wouldn't trade my E for too many other vehicles, because it's so damn cool, but why did they govern the tranny so that when travelling at 100km (60mph) plus you're well into 3000 - 4000rpms. No wonder the fuel mileage is poor. To reiterate...Honda if you're listening....a sixth gear to drop the rpms into the 2500 range at highway speeds would be ideal.

Thanks,

Mike

I like my E and for what it is - and what I paid - its definely ok

- Road noise is attrocious - pls spend $15 on sound proffing interior


Honda did install a fix for this. there are 2 knobs just under the center vents. if you push, then turn the one on the left clockwise, the road noise softens significantly. :-D

which 'rear window'? There are 6 behind the driver.

i met the rear window with the tailgate.. It probably couldn't be done but we are talking about Honda.

So you are interested in the tailgate design in which the glass retracts into the lower panel, and then the lower panel either swings to the side or folds down? That is certainly do able. Many station wagons had that. I believe the LR Freelander does something like that (with swing to side).

I prefer the Element's pickup style tailgate. It is much better for camping than anything else I can think of. When open, the lower panel extends the floor by 18", while the upper one provides a good amount of protection from rain. Add a bit of fabric, and you have a rainproof, but ventilated camping area.

paulj

I'd love to have the tailgate window be powered (the kind that would retract into the lower tail section). also the rear clam-door windows to be powered (lowering, not popout). front moonroof would be nice, how about a limited/locking rear diff? how about an offroad package, meatier tires, skidplates, etc.

how about a Ridgeland?

OK - I'm happy with my E. The cost/benefit ratio on most of the shortcomings has been weighed, and I think Honda made smart choices for the most part.

That said - here is my wish list for improvements:

1. Road noise. I don't care what anyone says, this thing is louder than it needs to be.
2. Battery and alternator. Ridiculously inadequate.
3. The roof racks are too close together. My Thule evolution 1600 flexes more than it should when it is loaded up.


I can't really think of anything else, and I just spent 2 weeks in my E on a road trip. No complaints!

Dear Honda Motor Corp:

Please build real 4wd pu trucks, full sizes and compacts. Ridgeline is a nice car-like half/mini-truck, good job.

Please offer more horsepower on the CBR1000RR

Now, on to the improving the fantastic Element:

first of all, great job on the Element, darn good, a 'home run' id' say. Thank you.

please offer, perhaps as an "OX" version, as in "Off-road Cross country" :
- 4wd Low gearing option
- with taller 31" to 33" tires
- 10"+ ground clearence at the differential
- rear axle locking differential (selectable) often called "lockers"
- limited slip differential standard (like a S2000, a Corvette, or a Wrangler)
- skid plate armors

- turbo diesel option

a bigger engine option is always welcomed, but is not necessary, as 4wd Lo gearing, can handle most off road challenges. Toyota pu's 2.7L v4 or a Wragnler I6 160hp (now 170hp) has been adequate, with 4wd Lo gearing option.

Who should Honda buy the 'real' 4wd gear from - things like the low range, locking differentials, etc? As far as I know, they have none of that stuff in their stable. With no experience in this field, they need to either spend a lot of money in developing and perfecting it, or buy stuff off-the-shelf.

Should the Element remain a trans axle front wheel drive vehicle, with rear wheel take off, or should it be turned into a RWD, with optional front wheel drive via the transfer case?

How about suspension? Stick with the independent, or switch to solid axles?

Why should Honda make traditional trucks and 4wd vehicles when Toyota already has a full lineup? What could Honda better?

paulj

while i like to imagine the E as an off-road vehicle, i pretty much agree with paulj. that's toyota's market.

and frankly, since it is my only car, i'm glad that it is happily in the middle of the car-jeep spectrum. i can drive it to work, to the snow, and down logging roads.

if it were really off-road capable, it wouldn't be so good for road trips

1. service departments
2. secret warranties
3. mole
:evil: :twisted: :evil:

while i like to imagine the E as an off-road vehicle, i pretty much agree with paulj. that's toyota's market.

and frankly, since it is my only car, i'm glad that it is happily in the middle of the car-jeep spectrum. i can drive it to work, to the snow, and down logging roads.

if it were really off-road capable, it wouldn't be so good for road trips

I agree. The E get along well in any situation one would come across in 98% of Real World Driving in . As for the off road use, the gearing is just a TAD too high in first. If it were say...15-25% lower it would be very adequate for back/dirt/logging roads/towing. I know this desire is far fetched, but it would be GREAT if it were mated as part of a 6 speed manual transmission with the same 4WD setup.

That is one of the two reasons I would sell my E (to acquire a 6 speed). The second reason I would sell it would be to upgrade to a Turbodiesel engine model with a manual transmission. I get jittery just thinking about it....I'd be willing to pay a good premium for that option (Honda Spies please note that down..).

I'd be interested in a description of some of the backroad spots where you have found the Element to be geared too high.

I have driven down some steep gravel roads where I've had to pump the brakes continually because 1st gear doesn't provide enough engine braking. I believe the manual transmission would provide somewhat better braking than my automatic.

In some rough spots it would be nice to get adequate torque at a lower speed. On a temporary basis, the automatics torque converter gives me higher torque at a crawl, but for a longer run I'm getting best torque at 10 mph or more.

But is lowering 1st a bit enough, or do those conditions require a transfer case with a 50% reduction?

paulj

I'd be interested in a description of some of the backroad spots where you have found the Element to be geared too high.

I've been down many country/back roads and through the woods on ORV and ATV trails (see my pics of off roading in that area if curious). When there are many washouts or steeper sections that are off camber, you have to ride the clutch instead of leaving it in gear (maybe automatic has lower stall rpm?).


I have driven down some steep gravel roads where I've had to pump the brakes continually because 1st gear doesn't provide enough engine braking. I believe the manual transmission would provide somewhat better braking than my automatic.

Its not much better on the MT side of the fence as is. I pop the clutch and use the brakes. Sticking to my point, a 15-25% (preferable) rate in 1st gear would provide much more engine braking, especially with the MT.

In some rough spots it would be nice to get adequate torque at a lower speed. On a temporary basis, the automatics torque converter gives me higher torque at a crawl, but for a longer run I'm getting best torque at 10 mph or more.

But is lowering 1st a bit enough, or do those conditions require a transfer case with a 50% reduction?.

I really think it would be enough as it approached the 20% mark. 4WD usage requires more finesse than brute power or torque for the stuff we would see with out Es. Thats why I advocate a realistic reduction in gearing that would offer potential benefits without drastic drawbacks. When towing 1200 lbs with my 5 speed, there is definatley a need for an increment more of torque/gearing to make it more comfortable/satisfactory.

I know its not a towing vehicle, but for occasional towing it would be very nice. Also remember that I said the lower 1st gear could be part of a 6 speed solution that offered a lower 1st gear ratio while at the same time offer a higher final drive ratio to keep the RPMs lower at 75mph.

It's been so long since I drove a manual, that I forgot about the problem with stalling if you go too slow. Plus the last manual I owned was a Trooper II with low range; even with that I mainly used low range for pulling a boat up steep ramps. But I was living in Chicago at the time, and only spent a couple of vacations out west.

I don't know what it would take to stall my automatic. I've been able to crawl slowly over water bars and other rough spots where I was concerned with ground clearance. However I haven't tried a real steep hill climb; one that would be steep enough to test the power limits, but not so rough that I'd be worrried about clearance.

paulj