What are the most common problems with the 2011 Honda Element?

The 2011 Honda Element is rated as average for reliability, with significant safety recall activity impacting its overall assessment.

How many recalls does the 2011 Honda Element have?

The 2011 Honda Element currently has 12 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2011 Honda Element a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The 2011 Honda Element is rated as average for reliability, with significant safety recall activity impacting its overall assessment. A primary concern is the extensive recall history related to Takata airbag inflators. Confirming completion of these critical safety campaigns is paramount. Despite numerous recalls, consumer complaints are notably absent, suggesting issues are often addressed through official campaigns. The Element's practical, boxy design offers exceptional cargo versatility and passenger space. All-wheel drive provides added confidence in varied weather conditions. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2011 Honda Element?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2011 Honda Element.

2011 Honda Element Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 6, 2026Ryan Davis9 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 2011 Honda Element is rated as average for reliability, with significant safety recall activity impacting its overall assessment.
A primary concern is the extensive recall history related to Takata airbag inflators. Confirming completion of these critical safety campaigns is paramount.
Despite numerous recalls, consumer complaints are notably absent, suggesting issues are often addressed through official campaigns.
The Element's practical, boxy design offers exceptional cargo versatility and passenger space.

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Overview

2011 Honda Element

The 2011 Honda Element stands out for its unique, boxy utility and flexible interior packaging. It offers a practical, car-like driving experience with the added capability of all-wheel drive. While its design prioritizes function over form, it delivers a versatile platform for hauling gear or passengers. However, potential buyers should be aware of its average reliability rating, largely influenced by extensive safety recall activity. The 20-mpg combined fuel economy is respectable for its class, but potential repair costs associated with its recall history warrant careful consideration.

Critical Failure Risk

Due to propellant degradation, Takata airbag inflators can rupture during deployment, potentially sending shrapnel into the cabin. This is a critical safety defect.

Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls12

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a highly practical and versatile vehicle for cargo or utility.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing top-tier reliability and minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Honda Element Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Manual 5-spd
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 20

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Most Common Issues

1. Takata Airbag Inflator Rupture

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Accelerator Pedal Binding

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

12 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2011 Honda Element reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Honda Element is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 12. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2011 Honda Element for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Honda Element?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Honda Element is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Honda Element?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (Takata) (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).

What engine is in the 2011 Honda Element?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2011 Honda Element use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda Element, transmission is Manual 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Honda Element?

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Honda Element?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2011 Honda Element?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda Element, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Honda Element use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda Element, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 5-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Honda Element?

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 3/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Honda Element?

This model year has 12 official safety campaigns listed.