2008 Honda Element Service & Repair Manual

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🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Honda Model: Element Year: 2008 Generation Generation Code: First Generation (YH1/YH2) Generation Years: 2003-2011 Codes Chassis Code: YH2 (AWD models) Chassis Code FWD: YH1 (FWD models) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Honda Element is a versatile compact crossover SUV known for its unique, boxy design and practical, configurable interior space. It targeted a niche market seeking utility and flexibility. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Primary competitors included vehicles like the Scion xB, Toyota Matrix, and to some extent, other compact SUVs and versatile hatchbacks. Key Features Element Features: Unique 'Doghouse' styling, suicide rear doors for easier access, durable urethane flooring, highly configurable seating (SCS - 'Super()` system), and spacious, open interior. Manual Value Proposition Diy Focus: Designed for DIY enthusiasts and independent repair shops seeking accurate, comprehensive factory data, saving costs compared to dealership service. Manual Advantage Digital Vs Print: Offers superior accessibility, searchability, and up-to-date information compared to older, static printed manuals. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 2008 Honda Element (all trims and drivetrain configurations) Engine Coverage: 2.4L i-VTEC (K24A4) Transmission Coverage: 5-Speed Automatic, 5-Speed Manual Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Official Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Online Software (Web-based) Access Duration: 1 Year Subscription 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system. Engine Performance: Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting. Transmission Auto: Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic system, electronic controls, service and repair. Transmission Manual: Manual transmission assembly, clutch system, gear selection mechanism, service and repair. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) and Real Time Four-Wheel Drive (RT-4WD) systems, driveshafts, constant velocity joints (CVTs), differentials, propeller shaft (AWD). Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, stabilizer bars, bushings, alignment specifications. Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications. Brakes: Front and rear disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement, bleeding procedures. Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting system, horn. Body Exterior: Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, windows, sunroof (if equipped), locks, hinges, exterior trim. Body Interior: Seating, dashboard, interior trim panels, instrument cluster, climate control system, audio system, airbags. Climate Control: Air conditioning (A/C) system, heater, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnosis and repair. Safety Systems: Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, safety restraint system diagnostics. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, power steering fluid change, transmission fluid service. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit diagnosis, mechanical component diagnosis. Repair: Component removal and installation, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair. Diagnostics: OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) information, sensor testing, actuator testing, using diagnostic scan tools. Calibration: Steering angle sensor calibration, throttle body relearn procedures. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive factory-level repair and maintenance information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Diagnostic Tools: Information on using specialized Honda diagnostic tools (e.g., HDS - Honda Diagnostic System) and general OBD-II scanners. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Web-based platform accessible via browser; no direct file download specified, implying cloud access. Print Quality Digital Quality: High-resolution, factory-derived data ensuring clarity and accuracy of diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Product) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Product) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: K24A4 Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC i-VTEC Displacement: 2354 cc (2.4 Liters) Performance Horsepower 2008: 166 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque 2008: 161 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) Fuel Type Recommendation: Unleaded Regular Gasoline, 87 Octane Engine Management ECU Type: Honda ECU (Engine Control Unit) with integrated Immobilizer 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Automatic Optional Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual Features Automatic Features: Sequential SportShift (allowing manual gear selection) Manual Features: Single-plate dry clutch Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Honda ATF-DW1 (or equivalent) Manual Transmission Fluid: Honda MTF (Manual Transmission Fluid) or API GL-4, 70W/75W Gear Oil 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 169.4 inches (4303 mm) Width: 70.5 inches (1791 mm) Height: 68.1 inches (1730 mm) Wheelbase: 104.4 inches (2652 mm) Weights Curb Weight FWD Auto: 3,439 lbs (1560 kg) Curb Weight AWD Auto: 3,547 lbs (1609 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: 4,717 lbs (2140 kg) for AWD models Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats: 39.6 cu ft (1.12 m³) Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded: 67.6 cu ft (1.91 m³) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating: 5 Stars (Driver and Passenger) NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test Rating: 5 Stars (Front and Rear Passengers) IIHS...

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Sku: 203266

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Description

🏷️ Basic Information

Identification

Make:

Honda

Model:

Element

Year:

Generation

Generation Code:

First Generation (YH1/YH2)

Generation Years:

2003-2011

Codes

Chassis Code:

YH2 (AWD models)

Chassis Code FWD:

YH1 (FWD models)

👋 Introduction

Market Position

Positioning:

The Honda Element is a versatile compact crossover SUV known for its unique, boxy design and practical, configurable interior space. It targeted a niche market seeking utility and flexibility.

Competitive Analysis

Competitors:

Primary competitors included vehicles like the Scion xB, Toyota Matrix, and to some extent, other compact SUVs and versatile hatchbacks.

Key Features

Element Features:

Unique 'Doghouse' styling, suicide rear doors for easier access, durable urethane flooring, highly configurable seating (SCS - 'Super()` system), and spacious, open interior.

Manual Value Proposition

Diy Focus:

Designed for DIY enthusiasts and independent repair shops seeking accurate, comprehensive factory data, saving costs compared to dealership service.

Manual Advantage

Digital Vs Print:

Offers superior accessibility, searchability, and up-to-date information compared to older, static printed manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas

Primary Coverage:

2008 Honda Element (all trims and drivetrain configurations)

Engine Coverage:

2.4L i-VTEC (K24A4)

Transmission Coverage:

5-Speed Automatic, 5-Speed Manual

Page Count

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language

Language:

English

Format

Format:

Online Software (Web-based)

Access Duration:

1 Year Subscription

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Transmission Auto:

Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic system, electronic controls, service and repair.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission assembly, clutch system, gear selection mechanism, service and repair.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and Real Time Four-Wheel Drive (RT-4WD) systems, driveshafts, constant velocity joints (CVTs), differentials, propeller shaft (AWD).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, stabilizer bars, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting system, horn.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, windows, sunroof (if equipped), locks, hinges, exterior trim.

Body Interior:

Seating, dashboard, interior trim panels, instrument cluster, climate control system, audio system, airbags.

Climate Control:

Air conditioning (A/C) system, heater, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnosis and repair.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, safety restraint system diagnostics.

Procedures Included

Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, power steering fluid change, transmission fluid service.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit diagnosis, mechanical component diagnosis.

Repair:

Component removal and installation, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) information, sensor testing, actuator testing, using diagnostic scan tools.

Calibration:

Steering angle sensor calibration, throttle body relearn procedures.

Technical Depth

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level repair and maintenance information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using specialized Honda diagnostic tools (e.g., HDS - Honda Diagnostic System) and general OBD-II scanners.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format

Digital Format:

Web-based platform accessible via browser; no direct file download specified, implying cloud access.

Print Quality

Digital Quality:

High-resolution, factory-derived data ensuring clarity and accuracy of diagrams and text.

Binding Type

Binding:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper Type

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine

Engine Code:

K24A4

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC i-VTEC

Displacement:

2354 cc (2.4 Liters)

Performance

Horsepower 2008:

166 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque 2008:

161 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel System

Fuel Delivery:

Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)

Fuel Type Recommendation:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline, 87 Octane

Engine Management

ECU Type:

Honda ECU (Engine Control Unit) with integrated Immobilizer

🔧 Transmission

Standard

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic

Optional

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Features

Automatic Features:

Sequential SportShift (allowing manual gear selection)

Manual Features:

Single-plate dry clutch

Fluid Specifications

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Honda ATF-DW1 (or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Honda MTF (Manual Transmission Fluid) or API GL-4, 70W/75W Gear Oil

📐 Dimensions

Exterior

Length:

169.4 inches (4303 mm)

Width:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

68.1 inches (1730 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.4 inches (2652 mm)

Weights

Curb Weight FWD Auto:

3,439 lbs (1560 kg)

Curb Weight AWD Auto:

3,547 lbs (1609 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

4,717 lbs (2140 kg) for AWD models

Cargo

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

39.6 cu ft (1.12 m³)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

67.6 cu ft (1.91 m³)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

5 Stars (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test Rating:

5 Stars (Front and Rear Passengers)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Front Crash Test Rating:

IIHS Side Impact Crash Test Rating:

Active Features

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control (standard on AWD, optional/part of VSA package on FWD).

Passive Features

Passive Safety:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear), active head restraints, three-point seat belts with pretensioners, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4 speakers. Optional premium audio with subwoofer and amplifier, and available factory navigation system on EX-L models.

Navigation:

Optional factory-integrated GPS navigation system available on EX-L trims.

Driver Assistance

Driver Assistance Features:

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist.

Connectivity

Connectivity Features:

Auxiliary audio input jack (on some trims), optional steering wheel audio controls.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Refer to Maintenance Minder system for specific recommendations.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (guided by Maintenance Minder).

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months (depending on driving conditions).

Spark Plugs:

Iridium-tipped spark plugs: Replace at 105,000 miles (168,000 km).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (guided by Maintenance Minder). Recommended service interval around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for severe conditions.

Brake Fluid:

Replace every 3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Coolant:

First change at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years. Subsequent changes every 5 years or 105,000 miles (168,000 km).

Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20, API Certified

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.4 US qt (4.2 L) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Honda Genuine All-Season Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 5.1 US qt (4.8 L)

Known Issues

Common Issues:

AC condenser leaks, premature wear on rear trailing arm bushings, starter motor issues, occasional transmission solenoid issues, rattling from exhaust heat shields, cracking of the dashboard material in hot climates.

Maintenance Minder:

The vehicle's Maintenance Minder system (MM) uses driving data to determine when to perform service. The manual provides detailed explanations for interpreting MM codes and performing the related service.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage

Honda Heritage:

Honda is renowned for its engineering prowess, reliability, fuel efficiency, and innovative vehicle designs, consistently producing well-regarded automobiles and motorcycles.

Model Evolution

Element Introduction:

The Honda Element was introduced for the 2003 model year, based on the Model X concept vehicle, and was designed with a focus on utility, flexibility, and a youthful target demographic.

Element 2008 Updates:

For 2008, minor updates included revised exterior styling (grille, headlights, taillights), new wheel designs, and interior enhancements, including the introduction of the EX-L Navi trim.

Production

Production Location:

East Liberty, Ohio, USA

Production Years:

2003-2011

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

The Honda Element received IIHS Top Safety Pick awards in multiple years, including for the 2008 model year, underscoring its strong safety performance.