2003 is the first year that Honda offered one of the most daring automotive designs to hit the market. Like any first year offering, it has it's share of bumps and warts.

I bought the Element as a grad student at Penn State. I had two medium sized dogs, lived in the mountains, and moved from apartment toapartment frequently. The Element (or "E" as enthusiasts affectionately refer to it) suited all of those needs. Muddy dogs after a spring hike? No problem. No carpets, so I simply sponged out the flooring. Treacherous snowy mountain roads? No sweat. All wheel drive negotiates adverse conditions nimbly and confidently. Need to toss in a washer and dryer, a couch, your girlfriend's fridge? No prob. The seats can be lashed to walls of the vehicle, converting your SUV in a utility van kinda like a stripped down Chevy Astro for commericial work.

Now as a post-grad professional, the warts are stating to show. My Element needed to have the head gasket replaced after 40K miles (just after the warranty expired). Around 35K miles, the driver's side doorlock stppoed turing when the key was inserted. Honda helped pay part of the repair costs, but be ready for some significant haggling. A class-action suit has been initiated against Honda over windshield's cracking. Just a few days after receiving a letter about this phenenom, my windshield fell victim. The factory tires are terrible and wet conditions turn the Element into a maniacal runaway monster. I bought a set of Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revos and now it feels like a completely diferent vehicle. I also find myself terriefied at times trying to merge onto highways due to the sluggish 4 cylinder engine; I wish the E had more pep. One thing that any potential E buyer should note is the notorious blindspots. When the seats are hung on the sides, it's difficult to see motorists in nearby lanes. More problematic is the thick sidearm pillars along the windshield obscure on coming cars on winding roads, poles and pillars in parking lots & garages, and pedestrians crossing streets.

Overall, I like the cargo capacity and convenience of the E. It would be difficult going back to any other type of vehicle. I'm planning on buying a car in the future for a more sophisticated and luxurious ride, but I'll keep my E (esp. since it's nearly paid off)for the messy jobs and heavy lifting.
Amount Paid (US$): 20000
Condition: New
Model Year: 2003
Model and Options: EX