2005 Honda Element used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Airbag warning light15 owner complaints, usually around 100,000 miles

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

• Airbags did not deploy in a crash6 owner complaints, usually around 80,000 miles

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

• Windshield cracks6 owner complaints, usually around 27,500 miles

  Test the wipers, washers, defrosters and every window. Look for chips or cracks in the windshield.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Air bagsRecall number 19V499000, Jun 27, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V501000, Jun 27, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V182000, Mar 6, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 17V029000, Jan 10, 2017
• Air bagsRecall number 16V344000, May 23, 2016
• Air bagsRecall number 15V320000, May 28, 2015
• Power trainRecall number 11V395000, Aug 4, 2011

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Customer Support Program For Front Passenger's Airbag Inflator.Jun 30, 2026
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMar 10, 2020
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMar 10, 2020
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsJun 7, 2018
• Advertisement in hawaiian newspapers to remind owners of the takata recall and to schedule an appointment...Aug 21, 2016
• AMERICAN HONDA CONSOLIDATED THE PREVIOUS AIRBAG INFLATOR CAMPAIGNS INTO THIS CURRENT BULLETIN BASED ON...Dec 19, 2015

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.