Honda Element Lift Problems
Installing a lift kit on a Honda Element can lead to various problems if not done properly with quality components. Poor fitting parts, loose fasteners, and the altered geometry can result in noises, vibration, reduced stability, and handling issues.
Key Takeaways
- Rattling noises from poor clearance or loose parts
- Reduced stability and rough handling from lift height
- Vibration issues that worsen with speed due to component balance
- Potential fixes include high-quality parts, tune-ups, and realignment
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Rattling noises | Loose or poorly aligned parts | Inspect connections and geometry |
| Poor handling | Altered center of gravity | Adjustment period, avoid sharp turns |
| Vibration issues | Uneven components, axle angles | Replace worn parts, new axles, realign |
Installing a lift kit on your Honda Element can provide great aesthetic and functional benefits, but also poses some unique challenges. Proper installation and component selection are key to minimizing issues, while regular inspections and alignments help optimize performance.
Below we’ll explore in detail some of the common problems that can occur with Honda Element lift kits, look at what causes them, and review effective solutions.
Rattling Noises
One of the most common complaints about lifted Honda Elements are new rattling or clunking noises coming from the suspension and steering components. This can occur when aftermarket parts don't fit precisely or have sloppy tolerances compared to the OEM equipment.
Large gaps, play in the joints and bushings, or parts rubbing together can lead to annoying sounds over bumps or while turning. Loose fasteners can also cause vibration and knocking noises as the suspension articulates.
Cause
The main causes of rattling lift kit issues are:
- Poor fitment quality of aftermarket components
- Improperly torqued or loosened bolts and nuts
- Altered suspension geometry allowing components to clash
Solutions
Some ways to help resolve rattling lift problems include:
- Inspect for any loose bolts/nuts and properly torque
- Use high quality components designed specifically for the vehicle
- Add rubber isolation bushings or strips to problem areas
- Adjust components for maximum clearance
Stability and Handling Issues
The increased ride height from installing spacers or taller components raises the center of gravity for the Honda Element. This gives it more body roll during hard cornering or lane changes. The suspension also has more leverage from lift components which can amplify bump impacts. The altered steering and camber angles further degrade handling precision and grip.
Cause
Handling and stability problems mainly stem from:
- Raised center of gravity
- Changed suspension geometry
- Longer sway bar and tie rod lengths
Solutions
To counteract handling changes:
- Upgrade sway bars or add chassis bracing
- Adjust alignment settings to minimize geometry changes
- Avoid sharp high speed turns and quick maneuvers
Vibration Issues
A common problem after installing lift components is increased vibration and harshness felt while driving. This normally gets worse with speed and can indicate wheel balance, axle, engine mount, or driveline concerns. Extended suspension links and spacers change angles that can allow for vibration and premature wear.
Cause
Vibration problems typically result from:
- Altered driveline/CV axle angles
- Imbalance with new taller tire and wheel packages
- Engine movement from changed motor mount geometry
Solutions
Recommended ways to address vibration issues include:
- Installing new factory length axles
- Adding stiffer motor mounts or brackets
- Getting wheels balanced and aligned
- Using heavy duty steering and suspension bushings
Maintenance and Upkeep
Routine inspection and maintenance becomes more critical after installing lift components. The altered geometry leads to faster wear and a higher potential for loosened fasteners. It's recommended to:
- Retorque all lift kit bolts after 500 miles
- Watch for premature bushing wear during alignments
- Inspect steering and suspension often
- Change differential fluid regularly
Catching issues early makes repairs simpler and cheaper. But avoiding sharp driving maneuvers, along with using high quality lift components properly matched to the vehicle help minimize problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes death wobble with lifted Honda Elements?
Death wobble is caused by loose or worn steering/suspension parts. Lifts install longer links that amplify any play and deteriorate faster.
Why does my seat wobble after installing a lift?
The new geometry causes more vibration passed to the body. Stiffer bushings, heavier mounts, and chassis reinforcement help reduce motion transmitted to cabin.
Will lower profile tires improve my handling?
Lower profile tires can tighten response but also transmit more impacts to the chassis. Consider alignment adjustment instead of overly stiff tires.
What lift height starts needing additional driveline mods?
Any lift over 2" for AWD Honda Elements makes it highly recommended to upgrade axles and driveshafts to prevent binding, premature wear, and vibration issues.
Do I need a reflash after installing a lift kit?
A reflash optimizes fueling, timing, gear changes and other parameters to account for the altered ratios and reduced drivetrain efficiency from lift components.
Can I install a bigger lift by stacking components?
Yes but it magnifies the issues. Get a maximum lift kit made to precisely work together instead of mismatching components for best durability and performance.
Will adjustment help my bump steer after lift install?
Helps minimize it but the altered geometry limits adjustments. Consider replacement links and knuckles made to correct geometry changes from lifted height.
Is a body lift better for my Element?
Body lifts purely provide appearance benefits without ability to run much larger tires. Performance lift kits better improve capability.
Can I install lift components myself?
It's possible but proper adjustment requires an alignment rack and scope for ideal geometry tune. Unless very experienced, professional install best for reliability.
