Great story! What made this a cinch to sell for $6k was that you had a rust-free southern car to start with. Also, you should put a dollar value on YOUR time then revisit the budget. Now, do it again with a typical northern car and see how it goes. 🤣😆
Holy shit, I'm going to get those rear mount struts. Also, I had the P2647 VTEC issue. Went through a few solenoids (new and old) not working to clear that issue. What I did, and recommend doing, is prefilling the solenoid with the new oil (like what you do with your oil filter) to the top tapping to remove most air bubbles. When installing, quickly push on the head while also installing the 3 bolts. After that, had no issues.
maybe one of the best vids I have seen on what needs to be done to an Element when you get one .. I really like the way you show things, Great work .. well worth the watch for anyone thinking of buying one ...
You did a great job! but Adjust your mirrors out properly and the only blindzone you should have will be right next you. No stick-ons required. Also, the battery upgrade is very overhyped by the forums. It is the same battery used in all 2.4L Hondas...I used a quality 51R battery and it lasted me 6 years, starting through midwestern winters. If your battery won't crank in the winter, consider if you have not driven in a while you may need a tender during cold weather...getting a 'bigger' battery fixed the problem because it can drain for longer without issue. It does not mean the OEM battery is undersized. Again great job. And good note about the ball joint needing splines.
Fun to watch, I highly recommend trying cerakote trim wipes/cubes for the exterior trim. I used it on my Ridgeline and it's +1 year and still looks amazing.
Great Video. In depth on common issues with a fantastic commentary & explanations. Really liked your work around with the sockets to get the CV axle apart. The battery upgrade with tweaks made to the tray are a huge plus for that E or any similar vehicle. WATKINS GLEN !! AWESOME!! Your sister missed out on a vehicle that many ppl would camp overnight for. Makes me wanna do more maintenance to get ours as good as yours. 10/10. Nice job.
Thank you! Just bought my second Element after a 10 year hiatus and got a 2005 EX FWD in cargo Khaki. Stoked on the color even though it is not AWD. It is stuck in Limp mode after the small dealer replaced the VTEC solenoid with an aftermarket one. I should have got grabbed the original he removed. Going to get an OEM part this week and cross my fingers. Already cleaned all of the screens part of my the oil circulation system.
Went through a few solenoids (new and old) not working to clear that issue. What I did, and recommend doing, is prefilling the solenoid with the new oil (like what you do with your oil filter) to the top tapping to remove most air bubbles. When installing, quickly push on the head while also installing the 3 bolts. After that, had no issues. Also, clean or replace the front VTC filter along with the solenoid, consider that before replacing the aftermarket one. Also to check GND continuity from the Engine GND to the solenoid connector GND (yellow wire).
Lovely , utilitarian vehicle. Must, MUST check for MOLD in the floor. The marketing idiots spread the idea of garden hose spraying to quick clean. Actually, it was a recipe for mold and electronics failure. The underframe needs to be checked for rust if car lived in salt roads regions.
Alex, someboy is selling me an Element for $2,000, with these problems: It needs: - catalytic converter (test pipe in place) - Intake Air Control Valve cleaned - AC servicing (no idea what's not working) - A-B trans solenoid (fluid/filter replacement too?) It has: - 175k miles - 4-speed auto trans - AWD - front grill guard - seat covers - Thule roof rack with RockyMounts -- running boards - receiver hitch - VW rear hatch lifts - clear Michigan title - Also a new 3 year battery, new cabin and engine filters, and an OEM storage console armrest If I knew what you know, I'd get it.
I love it, thank you for making this video! YOU ARE AWESOME!!! If possible, a list of items you've tested, and places you've gone to will be highly appreciated.
Great, great video my HE friend. Very clear instructions. My sister gave me her 2009 Element. I performed most task you did in this video except ball joints and rear control arms. A video in how you pressed ball joint out and in would be helpful
Another great video! Where did you learn to work on cars? Did you just watch videos like this or did you go to mechanic school? I'm impressed. I've owned two Elements (one of which is my current daily driver). I'm not afraid to do engine work (valve adjustments, sensors, pumps, things like that) but the thought of doing the type of suspension work in this video without a lift has always been pretty intimidating to me. You have my respect!
I use to work at a car dealer through college and my employee labor charge was only $35/hour, so up until then I didn’t do anything myself, but would always watch the mechanics. Once I graduated I stopped working there and had to start working on my own cars at home. TH-cam definitely helped lol
I feel as though I'm getting ripped off for the Element that I'm about to purchase and no fault other than to my own for accepting this price but I also hear these Elements usually list higher than what Kelly lists the value. $7,000 for a 08 EX 152,000. A lot of replacement parts were part of my decision for purchasing. Brand new set of Hankook all-terrain tires rated for snow. New tie rods all around,new set rotors/brakes all around, 4 new motor mounts, new door checks, fresh oil change & alignment. The previous owner spent $1,400 on just the parts alone. The paint is in very good condition, surprisingly the molded bumper and other portions of the car that are not metal are still in good unfaded condition & I'll keep those parts looking new by using Cerakote trim protectant. I did notice a dealer trying to sell a two-wheel drive Honda Element for $33,😂😂😂
Alex this is awesome! I love my Element 2005 about 128K miles. I want to restore some things, how can I get in contact with you to ask specific questions? Thaks so much for the videos!
I replaced the entire ignition to my 2007 Element and I didn't realize that the new keys were chipped. So the engine turns over but won't run!!! What do I do now?
You didn't have to sand the rims, all you had to do was use purple power, it would have cleaned those rims sparkling clean. I detail vehicles and I've had some truly bad rims, purple power would have eaten away all that rust EASILY. You also could have used plasstic restorer for the trim. Mine looked like that and it made it black afterwards.
I love my 2006 Honda element A man made a left-hand turn, hit me right in the front broke the plastic bumper and grill, and he pushed in and broke my radiator and my condenser I fear my insurance company is just gonna say it’s totaled because it has no value Anyone who can help me with this Honda elements are worth more than they show on paper. Just try and buy one. I will check back for responses thank you everyone in the Honda Element community This is fantastic video. I can’t wait to fix my arms in the back and hold that tailgate up. I love my Honda element.
Sorry I hadn’t seen this sooner. I have just recently just recently gotten the element bug. I had a similar problem with a ford ranger. I was satisfied with what the insurance paid me until I tried to replace the truck. How did you make out? I think that if I wind up getting an element, I’ll see if I can get a cash policy. Somebody told me that they doit for classic cars. What ended up happening?
I'm looking for a 08-11 element. Looks ideal to carry my bikes in the cab. What are the major problems I should look out for when shopping for an element? Thank you.
Alex, love your channel. I have a 2004 ex fwd galipogos green. Love it just wish it was awd for where I live in Canada. Question, it doesnt have fog lights, if I were to purchase them, is the connections already under the front panel or would I have to ad them? Ive watched your channel and have done most of the work myself. So grateful for your information!😊
He skipped a step, because upon replacing those ball joints, he had to get the front end alignment for sure, or the car will be going left to right. Once you take those tie rods and ball joint loose, you have to get a front end alignment, it's no way around it, so he flat out skipped that step in the video. He also could have saved himself some money by merely going to a part store and getting that solenoid, because I did the exact same thing, I bought an after market and ended up getting a brand new one at the parts store with a warranty. The time and gas he spend going to the junk yard, he could have gone to the part store. He also could have ordered those ball joints and got them much cheaper online. I have an Element so I know. Looks like he has rust issues underneath as well.
I love your vids, I have an issue with my 2003 DX Element; how to get my Elements hood open when the cable seems to be disconnected. Any ideas to get it open....Any help is appreciated. I'm in the rust belt. Element has 179,000 miles....Tks
I was fine with what Alex did until he got to the plastic panels and he mentioned "Toaster Grease" and I shuddered. He mentioned CeraKote Trim Treatment, so he knows that CeraKote is THE go-to BEST STUFF for clear lenses and plastic parts! Did he mention that if you use the GREASE that your plastic will never accept the ceramic treatment? Well NO! Why does this GREASE exist? Because CeraKote costs about $17 and the GREASE is $1.50?? There's always some joker out there that puts together a trash product cheaply. Don't use the Toaster Grease EVER!! Go to your local Walmart and buy some CeraKote for your Element! Headlights, Body Panels and every plastic part needs the new ceramic chemistry. Guaranteed for 200+ washes! Would you polish your boat with BUTTER? Literally the same as putting grease on your Element's plastics! NEVER USE GREASE ON YOUR PLASTICS!! Don't be a fool Alex! Tell people not to spoil their plastic parts with grease please!!
do you have preexisting connections with the junk yard? or is there a place you're able to see what they get in? just bought a 2008 element and I'd like to get more savy about replacing and upgrading parts myself.
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@@truckercai3571 looking back I probably should have asked a little more for it. But when you look closely it was full of hail damage and scratches so it was probably a fair price
Alex, your enthusiasm for restorative upgrades is commendable. I sure wish you were located in l.a.
Same!!
I think what you are doing for the Element community is great! Restoring and putting these vehicles back on the road or in society is epic, salute!
I just bought a 2003 220k miles one owner. I’m thinking of using my mechanical knowledge to start a series of me fixing pretty much everything on it
@@shanedottie I have a 2003 with 225k!
@@joseph9531 nice how’s the trans holding up
@@shanedottie As crisp as the day I got it in 2020
@@joseph9531 nice, if you plan on keeping it long than change the fluid it’s super easy, basically as easy as changing the oil
ill tell you right now. the buyer bought the best well maintained element in the world. props to the seller
Thanks!
I've been thinking about getting a honda element and this video was helpful. Thanks.
I own 2 elements and absolutely love both! Good luck 👍
Great story! What made this a cinch to sell for $6k was that you had a rust-free southern car to start with. Also, you should put a dollar value on YOUR time then revisit the budget. Now, do it again with a typical northern car and see how it goes. 🤣😆
Holy shit, I'm going to get those rear mount struts. Also, I had the P2647 VTEC issue. Went through a few solenoids (new and old) not working to clear that issue. What I did, and recommend doing, is prefilling the solenoid with the new oil (like what you do with your oil filter) to the top tapping to remove most air bubbles. When installing, quickly push on the head while also installing the 3 bolts. After that, had no issues.
maybe one of the best vids I have seen on what needs to be done to an Element when you get one .. I really like the way you show things, Great work .. well worth the watch for anyone thinking of buying one ...
You're a good brother. Nice job.
You did a great job!
but
Adjust your mirrors out properly and the only blindzone you should have will be right next you. No stick-ons required. Also, the battery upgrade is very overhyped by the forums. It is the same battery used in all 2.4L Hondas...I used a quality 51R battery and it lasted me 6 years, starting through midwestern winters. If your battery won't crank in the winter, consider if you have not driven in a while you may need a tender during cold weather...getting a 'bigger' battery fixed the problem because it can drain for longer without issue. It does not mean the OEM battery is undersized.
Again great job. And good note about the ball joint needing splines.
Fun to watch, I highly recommend trying cerakote trim wipes/cubes for the exterior trim. I used it on my Ridgeline and it's +1 year and still looks amazing.
Watching this made me miss my E. Sold it 7 years ago to get an MDX and I wish I still had it.
Great Video. In depth on common issues with a fantastic commentary & explanations. Really liked your work around with the sockets to get the CV axle apart. The battery upgrade with tweaks made to the tray are a huge plus for that E or any similar vehicle. WATKINS GLEN !! AWESOME!! Your sister missed out on a vehicle that many ppl would camp overnight for. Makes me wanna do more maintenance to get ours as good as yours. 10/10. Nice job.
Thank you for the video. I just got a 2003 and this will help a lot.
Great video! I'm in the process of restoring my Element
Me too I'm redoing everything f r om bumper to bumper even every nut and bolt replacement
The helping hands that helped others to reach a million miles distances. 🤙🏼
Tackling all those assignments amazing I was intimidated the whole time you got balls
Thank you! Just bought my second Element after a 10 year hiatus and got a 2005 EX FWD in cargo Khaki. Stoked on the color even though it is not AWD. It is stuck in Limp mode after the small dealer replaced the VTEC solenoid with an aftermarket one. I should have got grabbed the original he removed. Going to get an OEM part this week and cross my fingers. Already cleaned all of the screens part of my the oil circulation system.
Went through a few solenoids (new and old) not working to clear that issue. What I did, and recommend doing, is prefilling the solenoid with the new oil (like what you do with your oil filter) to the top tapping to remove most air bubbles. When installing, quickly push on the head while also installing the 3 bolts. After that, had no issues.
Also, clean or replace the front VTC filter along with the solenoid, consider that before replacing the aftermarket one. Also to check GND continuity from the Engine GND to the solenoid connector GND (yellow wire).
Awesome stuff Alex, great job!
Lovely , utilitarian vehicle. Must, MUST check for MOLD in the floor. The marketing idiots spread the idea of garden hose spraying to quick clean. Actually, it was a recipe for mold and electronics failure. The underframe needs to be checked for rust if car lived in salt roads regions.
Great video, excellent how you walked us through the repairs =)
I love this video! I also bought an element to restore and make into a camper. You're video is so helpful!
Alex, someboy is selling me an Element for $2,000, with these problems:
It needs:
- catalytic converter (test pipe in place)
- Intake Air Control Valve cleaned
- AC servicing (no idea what's not working)
- A-B trans solenoid (fluid/filter replacement too?)
It has:
- 175k miles - 4-speed auto trans - AWD - front grill guard - seat covers - Thule roof rack with RockyMounts -- running boards - receiver hitch - VW rear hatch lifts - clear Michigan title -
Also a new 3 year battery, new cabin and engine filters, and an OEM storage console armrest
If I knew what you know, I'd get it.
Sorry, what is Toaster Grease?
I love it, thank you for making this video! YOU ARE AWESOME!!!
If possible, a list of items you've tested, and places you've gone to will be highly appreciated.
Great, great video my HE friend. Very clear instructions. My sister gave me her 2009 Element. I performed most task you did in this video except ball joints and rear control arms.
A video in how you pressed ball joint out and in would be helpful
Another great video! Where did you learn to work on cars? Did you just watch videos like this or did you go to mechanic school? I'm impressed. I've owned two Elements (one of which is my current daily driver). I'm not afraid to do engine work (valve adjustments, sensors, pumps, things like that) but the thought of doing the type of suspension work in this video without a lift has always been pretty intimidating to me. You have my respect!
I use to work at a car dealer through college and my employee labor charge was only $35/hour, so up until then I didn’t do anything myself, but would always watch the mechanics. Once I graduated I stopped working there and had to start working on my own cars at home. TH-cam definitely helped lol
You did an awesome job!
I feel as though I'm getting ripped off for the Element that I'm about to purchase and no fault other than to my own for accepting this price but I also hear these Elements usually list higher than what Kelly lists the value. $7,000 for a 08 EX 152,000.
A lot of replacement parts were part of my decision for purchasing.
Brand new set of Hankook all-terrain tires rated for snow.
New tie rods all around,new set rotors/brakes all around, 4 new motor mounts, new door checks, fresh oil change & alignment. The previous owner spent $1,400 on just the parts alone. The paint is in very good condition, surprisingly the molded bumper and other portions of the car that are not metal are still in good unfaded condition & I'll keep those parts looking new by using Cerakote trim protectant. I did notice a dealer trying to sell a two-wheel drive Honda Element for $33,😂😂😂
Great tutorial, thanks
dang, I wish I could have bought this from you. please let me known if you ever do this again!!
The VTEC screen was broken and dirty. You should replace it.
Thank you. Great video and very educational. Thanks for saving these Elements.
Fantastic video! Lots of things for me to check out on my 04' !!
You are awesome dude.!!!!..many thanks for this video.
this is what i needed.. i just found a low mile one and restoring it...
Great video. Some very useful info in here.
This was a great video! Very detailed and you didn’t leave out important steps.
I truly admire you.
That was a very detailed fix on that element. 👍🏽👏🏽 U want to fix mine? I could really use your help. 😊
No more words but just wow.. great
Man said, "Binghamton", he gained a follow.
Alex this is awesome! I love my Element 2005 about 128K miles. I want to restore some things, how can I get in contact with you to ask specific questions? Thaks so much for the videos!
Thanks great knowledge
I replaced the entire ignition to my 2007 Element and I didn't realize that the new keys were chipped. So the engine turns over but won't run!!!
What do I do now?
Thank you so much.... great video content
dang really enjoyed the video. learned a lot from this your video.
You didn't have to sand the rims, all you had to do was use purple power, it would have cleaned those rims sparkling clean. I detail vehicles and I've had some truly bad rims, purple power would have eaten away all that rust EASILY. You also could have used plasstic restorer for the trim. Mine looked like that and it made it black afterwards.
I love my 2006 Honda element
A man made a left-hand turn, hit me right in the front broke the plastic bumper and grill, and he pushed in and broke my radiator and my condenser
I fear my insurance company is just gonna say it’s totaled because it has no value
Anyone who can help me with this Honda elements are worth more than they show on paper. Just try and buy one.
I will check back for responses thank you everyone in the Honda Element community
This is fantastic video. I can’t wait to fix my arms in the back and hold that tailgate up. I love my Honda element.
Sorry I hadn’t seen this sooner. I have just recently just recently gotten the element bug. I had a similar problem with a ford ranger. I was satisfied with what the insurance paid me until I tried to replace the truck. How did you make out?
I think that if I wind up getting an element, I’ll see if I can get a cash policy. Somebody told me that they doit for classic cars. What ended up happening?
Nice video! Can I ask where you got those cool aluminum looking gauge bezel rings??? Thanks Mike
They are a super rare accessory you could’ve got years ago at the dealer. This car came with them, but I moved to my other element im keeping forever
Nice video and break down 🙌
I'm looking for a 08-11 element. Looks ideal to carry my bikes in the cab. What are the major problems I should look out for when shopping for an element? Thank you.
good car, good price, great fix
Alex, love your channel. I have a 2004 ex fwd galipogos green. Love it just wish it was awd for where I live in Canada. Question, it doesnt have fog lights, if I were to purchase them, is the connections already under the front panel or would I have to ad them? Ive watched your channel and have done most of the work myself. So grateful for your information!😊
I have a video on my channel installing fog lights on an element. It’s kind of a pain
Great job!
Great video!
Alex are you a mechanic by trade or just a gearhead? Great video and,will be,watching more.
Hi Alex great video !!!!!
The 555 ball joints r the best. 👍🏽
Can you please put a link for the fog lights? 👍
Great video, Alex. Do you know if those tailgate struts would also fit a 2006 EX?
Yes they fit all years
Are you saying "toaster grease"? I am thinking of buying one of these and I would like to restore the trim.
Nice work man
I would like to buy an element like this if you ever get another one and restore it like this
I am in Southern California
Garys!!! Im from vestal/endicott.. nice!
great video 5***** thanks! alex
Good stuff …thanks
Crazy to think a 140k mile Element is about $10-12k now in my area these days
He skipped a step, because upon replacing those ball joints, he had to get the front end alignment for sure, or the car will be going left to right. Once you take those tie rods and ball joint loose, you have to get a front end alignment, it's no way around it, so he flat out skipped that step in the video. He also could have saved himself some money by merely going to a part store and getting that solenoid, because I did the exact same thing, I bought an after market and ended up getting a brand new one at the parts store with a warranty. The time and gas he spend going to the junk yard, he could have gone to the part store. He also could have ordered those ball joints and got them much cheaper online. I have an Element so I know. Looks like he has rust issues underneath as well.
How many miles were on it when you sold it?
I love your vids, I have an issue with my 2003 DX Element; how to get my Elements hood open when the cable seems to be disconnected. Any ideas to get it open....Any help is appreciated. I'm in the rust belt. Element has 179,000 miles....Tks
Luckily I’ve never had to deal with that *knock on wood*
Did you say how many miles were on the Element? Thanks & Great work.
It had like 121k or something like that
I.
Saw one forty on the gauge when he was working on the interior❤❤❤❤
just put the magnet into a rubber glove in the finger and wedge it in their it will pick it up. Just saying.
I would like to buy my first E from you as well I think.
Not sure if it’s ever a possibility
I have one that is ready for sale. Message me on facebook (Alex Kolipinski) or Instagram (hondroelement)
I was fine with what Alex did until he got to the plastic panels and he mentioned "Toaster Grease" and I shuddered. He mentioned CeraKote Trim Treatment, so he knows that CeraKote is THE go-to BEST STUFF for clear lenses and plastic parts! Did he mention that if you use the GREASE that your plastic will never accept the ceramic treatment? Well NO! Why does this GREASE exist? Because CeraKote costs about $17 and the GREASE is $1.50?? There's always some joker out there that puts together a trash product cheaply. Don't use the Toaster Grease EVER!! Go to your local Walmart and buy some CeraKote for your Element! Headlights, Body Panels and every plastic part needs the new ceramic chemistry. Guaranteed for 200+ washes! Would you polish your boat with BUTTER? Literally the same as putting grease on your Element's plastics! NEVER USE GREASE ON YOUR PLASTICS!! Don't be a fool Alex! Tell people not to spoil their plastic parts with grease please!!
do you have preexisting connections with the junk yard? or is there a place you're able to see what they get in? just bought a 2008 element and I'd like to get more savy about replacing and upgrading parts myself.
Most of the yards update their inventory daily and have a picture of the car on the website.
😭😭😭 i ❤ elements
Link for the foglights nice
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I just bought a 2004 element in great shape. Seems like it should shift one more gear. At 60 mph it revs about 2.5 grand . Does this seem right?
Yes that’s correct
Wow pretty good
Will you fix up another Element?
Yes I already bought one😂
Nice!! Hope you post videos.@@AlexKolipinski
We are shopping for an Element to tow behind a diesel pusher RV, is this safe and doable? any advice? thx!!
I think people have done it
Man if you ever wanna flip another element let me know. I would buy from you hahaha
It seems like you got minimum wage for your work but you do have a great video too.
Alex is there a way to contact you? Im from japan and would like to make contact.
Wow🎉
hey alex how can i HIRE you to help me with mine
A 2005 honda like yours the plastic trim needs restored
Did you sale that Element?
How many hours would you estimate you spent on this?
Honestly I’m not sure. Too many lol
Your neighbors pickle is bigger than yours? Nice!
Yes just a little thicker
How many miles was on it?
145,000
@@AlexKolipinski I wish I could get a element with 145000 for 6k
Awesome job Alex… you made this car looks like new. I wish I knew of you when I was looking for my Element. Great video. Thanks for sharing!
@@truckercai3571 looking back I probably should have asked a little more for it. But when you look closely it was full of hail damage and scratches so it was probably a fair price
nah i think for that price the buyer will always cherish that element plus you made a fantastic video@@AlexKolipinski
I want one now 😂
Those parts are cheap where you are!
I just picked one up for $1000, I'm gonna do the bare minimum and sell it for $3500.
Big fan.
You should list affiliate links for the Amazon items and make a few buck$
I totally agree.This guy does a awesome job❤❤❤
These cars were junk when new.
Great job!