My check engine light is on. Is it safe to drive?

Basic rule that holds true with any vehicle, if the check engine light is on steady, and the vehicle is running ok with good oil pressure and not overheating, then it should be safe to drive until you can have the vehicle checked by your shop. If however the check engine light is flashing, and or you detect a performance problem, then it’s not recommended to drive the vehicle any distance.

My battery light is on in the dash. Is it safe to drive?

Normally when the battery light is on, that indicates a possible issue with the alternator. If indeed the alternator isn’t recharging the battery, you run the risk of being stranded if driven as the battery voltage will become depleted.

When should I have maintenance items like spark plugs, driveline fluids, timing belt, filters, etc?

By far the easiest way to keep up with all the maintenance items on your vehicle is to stay close to the Manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Remember all vehicles may not have the same service intervals for a certain item. So It’s always best to check the owner's manual for your specific vehicle.

We are driving on a long trip soon, but my car isn’t due for any maintenance yet. Should I have the vehicle looked over before leaving?

Absolutely 100% you should have the vehicle checked over before driving on any long trips. Things like spare tire pressure, quick visual inspection of tires for nails/cuts and pressures. Visual inspection under the hood to assure no leaks and all fluid levels are good. These things take maybe 15 minutes and are totally worth the piece of mind while traveling long distances.

There is a warning light on in my dash. What should I do? It seems to be running ok.

Every warning light on the instrument panel has a purpose. Warning lights are there to alert us that a computer/module has detected an abnormality in one of the systems on your vehicle. If you’re not sure what the light indicates, there is a section in your owner's manual that will give detailed information related to the light in question.

I have noticed a fluid leak under my car when parking ?

Any fluid leak should be inspected by your shop to verify the source. Trying to identify fluid on your driveway or parking lot can be a bit tricky. Coolant while water based, can have an oily feel on your fingers and may lead you to think it’s engine oil. Engine oil and transmission fluid are similar, but transmission fluid if not too spent, will have a red look unless it’s a CVT transmission. Engine oil could be darker looking, or clear if you just had the oil changed recently. Brake fluid is usually clear, but oily feeling much like engine oil. Checking the under hood fluid levels many times can lead you in the right direction.

How often should I change my engine oil?

I don’t think any 2 vehicle manufacturers are the same. At Creech Import Repair, we recommend every 5,000 miles to change the oil and filter. Many mfg’s recommend longer intervals, but if they extend past 5k we highly recommend checking the engine oil level every 1,000 miles. By nature of design, any internal combustion engine is going to use or consume some amount of oil. Also detergent in oil is designed to suspend by-products of combustion, which is what eventually turns the engine oil dark. At some point the detergent content will become loaded and can’t store anymore. This is the point when the engine can start to gum up inside with deposits and can be harmful to your engine and shorten its life.

Honda Element Repair - Creech Import Repair

Reliable Maintenance for One of Honda’s Most Practical Designs

The Honda Element has always stood out—not because it was flashy or fast, but because it was wildly functional. Its rugged body, flexible interior, and youthful character made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, pet owners, and drivers who needed something a little different. Whether you're using it to haul gear, take road trips, or handle your daily commute, the Element thrives when properly cared for.

At Creech Import Repair in Raleigh, we’ve been working on Elements since they first hit the market. From the 2003 debut all the way through the final 2011 production models, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to keep yours running like it should.

Honda Element: Year-by-Year Breakdown

The Element may have been discontinued in 2011, but its popularity hasn’t faded. Let’s take a quick look at what changed over the years.

2003–2006: The Original Launch

Engine: 2.4L i-VTEC (K24A4)
Highlights: Washable flooring, clamshell rear doors, Real-Time 4WD
Quirks: Basic interior but incredibly durable

2007–2008: Mid-Cycle Improvements

Engine Upgrade: K24A8 for better fuel economy
Changes: Refreshed grille and headlight design
New Trim: SC (Street Custom) model introduced with a sportier suspension and interior

2009–2011: Final Years

Tweaks: Better sound insulation, revised trim options
Special Package: Optional “Dog-Friendly” package
End of an Era: Element retired in 2011

Known Honda Element Problems by Model Year

🔧 Common Issues (2003–2006)

Windshield Cracking: Some drivers report that windshields develop cracks too easily due to chassis flex.
➤ Fix: Reinforce frame bushings or replace with reinforced glass.
Sunroof Leaks: EX models, especially from wetter regions, often experience water intrusion.
➤ Fix: Clean and reseal drains, replace aging weatherstripping.
Paint Fading (especially Red/Black): These paint finishes are known to oxidize.
➤ Fix: A quality repaint or ceramic coating goes a long way.
Door Lock Malfunctions: Power locks may buzz or fail altogether.
➤ Fix: Replace with updated actuators and lubricate internal mechanisms.

🔧 Issues in 2007–2008

TPMS Alerts: The tire pressure light tends to stay on even when pressures are fine
➤ Fix: Recalibrate or replace malfunctioning sensors
Brake Pad Wear: Because of the Element’s weight, pads tend to wear out sooner than expected.
➤ Fix: High-performance ceramic pads and new rotors can help.

🔧 2009–2011 Problems

Rear Differential Fluid (AWD Models): Skipping this service causes binding or vibration during sharp turns.
➤ Fix: Flush and replace fluid every 30,000 miles.
Sagging Headliner: Interior headliners in warm climates tend to droop.
➤ Fix: Remove and reglue or replace the fabric.
Starter Motor Issues: Electrical load increases caused premature starter failures.
➤ Fix: Install a new starter and check ignition switch wear.
SC Trim Window Failures: The unique trim puts extra strain on the window regulators.
➤ Fix: Regulator replacement with improved guides and lube.

Common Problems Across All Years

AC Compressor Failures: Often at high mileage
Excessive Oil Use: Some engines burn oil between changes
Rear Hatch Latch Trouble: Difficult to open or rattles
Rust in Rear Wheel Wells: Especially in northern climates

What We Do at Creech Import Repair

🔧

Engine Work

Oil leak inspection
Valve cover gasket replacement
Water pump & thermostat replacement
Engine mount replacement
Timing chain services

❄

HVAC & Cooling

AC diagnostics and compressor replacement
Radiator and heater core work
Blower motor repairs

❄️

Suspension & Brakes

Struts, shocks, and springs
Brake pad and rotor upgrades
Power steering service
Control arm bushing replacement

🔌

Electrical & Interior

Power window & lock troubleshooting
TPMS sensor testing
Interior light diagnostics
Sunroof leak detection

Honda Element Maintenance Chart

Service	Frequency
Oil Change	Every 5,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush	Every 2 years
Rear Differential Fluid	Every 30,000 miles
Spark Plugs	Every 100,000 miles
Coolant Replacement	Every 60,000 miles
Valve Clearance Inspection	Every 110,000 miles
Cabin Air Filter	15,000–20,000 miles

Why Honda Element Owners Come to Creech

You can’t fake experience. We’ve worked on Elements since they were new, and we’ve kept them on the road long after other shops stopped understanding them. Whether it’s your daily driver or your off-road weekend machine, we give it the attention it deserves.

What Sets Us Apart

Technicians familiar with K24 engines
Access to factory tools and software
Honest recommendations, no sales pressure
OEM and upgraded part options
Friendly, family-owned service

What Our Customers Say

Jeremy R., Raleigh

My ‘06 Element had electrical gremlins no one could fix. Creech found the issue in a day.

Amanda T., Wake Forest

“I love my SC trim. These guys are the only ones who actually knew how it was different.

Book Your Honda Element Service in Raleigh

If you’re noticing leaks, strange noises, or just want a trusted team to stay ahead of maintenance, Creech Import Repair is here for you. We’ll help your Honda Element stay as practical and reliable as the day you got it.

📍 Creech Import Repair – Raleigh, NC
📞 Call: 919-872-1999
🌐 Schedule Online: Contact us

Contact us today

For an estimate with the most trusted auto repair shop in Wake County, Creech Import Repair!

Shop Location

1818 St. Albans Dr #106
Raleigh, NC 27609

Monday - Friday

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Call us 919-872-1999

Our Commitment to You

At Creech Import Repair, our philosophy is simple: Treat customers with kindness, respect, and honesty, and success will follow. Contact us for any and all of your automotive repair needs.

Please Note

Online bookings are not considered confirmed appointments until verified by a member of our Service Team.
We take your privacy very seriously. Learn more about how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

Schedule An Appointment

Honda Element Repair Services in Raleigh, NC