2007 Honda Element Problems
Shopping for a used 2007 Honda Element? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Based on 112 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Airbag Malfunctions the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2007 Honda Element has 112 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Airbag Malfunctions.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
Free preview · Full report from $12.95.
2007 Honda Element Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 4 2007 Honda Element trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 4 trims analysed.
2007 Honda Element Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not Rated20.4% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
20.4% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2007 Honda Element has 112 owner complaints, 6 crash-related complaints, and 12 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Airbag Malfunctions. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Honda
- Model
- Element
- Model year
- 2007
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 112
- Crash-related complaints
- 6
- Safety recall campaigns
- 12
- Top reported component
- Airbag Malfunctions
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 21
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 19 / 24
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 3/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2007 Honda Element problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Airbag Malfunctions
Electrical Faults
Brake System
Complaint patterns center on Airbag Malfunctions, Electrical Faults, Brake System. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2007 Honda Element?
The 2007 Honda Element shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2007 Honda Element
Inspection Focus
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, especially for airbag systems.
- Request service records for reported components: airbag, electrical, and brake systems.
- Have a mechanic inspect the airbag system, electrical wiring, and brake components before purchase.
- Check for any outstanding safety recalls related to the 12 recalls noted.
Before You Close the Deal
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, especially for airbag systems.
- Request service records for reported components: airbag, electrical, and brake systems.
- Have a mechanic inspect the airbag system, electrical wiring, and brake components before purchase.
- Check for any outstanding safety recalls related to the 12 recalls noted.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2007 Honda Element, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on 112 NHTSA complaints for the 2007 Honda Element, issues appear concentrated in airbag malfunctions, electrical faults, and brake system problems. With 12 recalls and 6 crash-related complaints, buyers may want to investigate these areas closely.
- Airbag Malfunctions account for the highest number of complaints at 27.
- Electrical Faults are the second most reported issue with 22 complaints.
- Brake System problems total 20 complaints, indicating a recurring theme.
- Airbag Malfunctions
- Electrical Faults
- Brake System
Full breakdown
All 2007 Honda Element complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2007 Honda Element. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airbag Malfunctions | 27 | 4 | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 22 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 20 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 14 | 2 | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 11 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 7 | 2 | — | — | |
| Visibility | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 6 | 1 | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 4 | 1 | — | — | |
| Air | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Trailer Hitches | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Electric | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2007 Honda Element. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
Rear Trailing Arm Rusted Out, Car Can not be repaired per two citified mechanics.
The contact owns a 2007 Honda Element. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V436000 (Electrical System, Trailer Hitches) and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list. The contact was advised by the local dealer that the vehicle was not e…
While driving up my driveway on the way home the left swing arm seperated from the unibody allowing the left rear wheel to move aft jamming the left rear tire into the rear inside fender effectively locking that wheel at about a 20 degree angle.
The rest frame has rusted from the inside out, frame actually broke when going in for repairs. Was raised on lift for basic brake repair and the frame separated on the rear driver side. Same exact issue that was recalled in crvs of same year.
Left rear trailing arm completely broke off while I was on the highway. Very unsafe. This Element needs to be recalled, like the CRV. It was recalled in Canada. This is absolutely dangerous and I could have died.
Brought vehicle (2007 Honda Element) to have new brakes and tires put on vehicle. Discovered rusted through rear frame. Declined to finish work of vehicle upgrades due to being unsafe to further drive vehicle. Mechanic said he didn't feel comfortable working on vehicle in the con…
The contact owns a 2007 Honda Element. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH, the rear end of the vehicle became unstable and the rear driver's side wheel failed rendering the vehicle undrivable. The vehicle was towed to a friend's home and later examined by …
I was driving with my family to the local fair a few miles from home. When the steering got loose around a sharp bend at 35-40 mph. I was able to keep control and slow to where I could safely look at issues. Thankfully I was going slow. The mount for the rear trailing arm pulled …
We are trying to sell our 2007 Honda Element and have found there is extensive rust under the car, likely due to the NY road salt. We have older cars in the family / area without this problem. We found out Canada has issued a recall over this matter. I have lost confidence tha…
Rusted detached rear trailing arm. This is the same part involved in the Honda CR-V recall. This recall should be extended to the Honda Element which is on the same platform.
The left rear trailing arm mount is very rusty as is the inner rocker. This is a problem with both the CRV and Element ,it's a safety issue because the mount can detach and cause a accident. This vehicle has had a yearly inspection in my state and has passed I am concerned it wo…
REAR SUSPENSION FAILURE DUE TO EXCESSIVE CHASSIS COROSION. FORTUNATELY FAILURE OCCURRED AT LOW SPEED. TOTAL LOSS OF CONTROL WOULD RESULT AT HIGH SPEED. INDEPENDENT BODY SHOPS CONFIRM THIS DEFECT IS NOT REAIRABLE. PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE IS A RECALL FOR HONDA ELEMENTS IN CANADA FO…
Rear suspension failure due to excessive corrosion. Fortunately failure occurred at low speed. Total loss of control would have happened at high speed. Independent body shops confirm this damage is not repairable. Please note that there is a recall for Honda Elements in Canada fo…
The frame of the vehicle has rusted out at the bolt where the rear trailing arm connects to the frame. The rust has caused the vehicle to fail Maine State Inspection. This vehicle defect has led to a recall in Canada: “On certain vehicles, the rear frame could rust. In extreme ca…
While driving, without notice at all, the drivers side rear suspension ,wheel, and all the holds it together became dislocated/disassembled from the car while going about 40mph. Upon further investigation, I found the whole frame mount for the rear suspension had completely rotte…
The contact owns a 2007 Honda Element. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the contact drove over a pothole and noticed that the driver’s side control arm on the rear axle fractured and detached from the vehicle, causing the rear driver’s side tire to stick out from undernea…
ODOMETER ROLLED BACK IN RE-SALE; RESULT OF RETURN DUE TO NATURAL DISASTER. (2000MILES)
HO 11851603 LAST KNOWN MILES FROM HO (AIRBAG RECALL SERVICE)
DURING NORMAL DRIVING, NO HARD BRAKING INVOLVED, THE PASSENGER SEATBELT CONSISTENTLY LOCKS UP - CAUSING MY PASSENGERS TO BE LOCKED IN PLACE. IT LOCKS IF A PASSENGER LEANS FORWARD TO REMOVE SOMETHING FROM THE DASH CUBBIES (WHICH ARE JUST OUTSIDE OF ARMS REACH BUT WELL WITHIN NORM…
VSA LIGHT COMES ON AND TURNS OFF INTERMITTENTLY..AND AT TIMES IT HAPPENS ON THE HIGHWAY WHICH CAUSES THE CAR TO JERK AND NOT RUN RIGHT WHEN GOING ABOVE 2500RPM..THEN THE LIGHT WILL GO AWAY BUT THE CEL INDICATOR WILL STAY ON ...AT MY WITS END AND DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2007 Honda Element.
Safety recalls
2007 Honda Element recalls
12 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2007 Honda Element. 12 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2007 Honda Element buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2007 Honda Element reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 112 owner complaints, 6 crash-related complaints, and 12 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2007 Honda Element shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2007 Honda Element?▾
#1: Airbag Malfunctions (27 complaints). #2: Electrical Faults (22 complaints). #3: Brake System (20 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2007 Honda Element?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2007 Honda Element?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2007 Honda Element, NHTSA complaints include 6 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 112 total complaints. 6 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2007 Honda Element have any recalls?▾
Yes. 12 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2007 Honda Element. A major recall area is AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE. 12 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2007 Honda Element?▾
The 2007 Honda Element shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Airbag Malfunctions during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Honda Element reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2007 Honda Element based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.