A Honda Element Owner's Guide to Front Suspension Strut Mounts (2003-2011)
Hearing clunks, pops, or feeling weird steering? Your Element's front strut mounts might be the cause.
- A clunking noise in an Element could be sway bar links, not just strut mounts; check the simpler part first.
- Replacing strut mounts requires a wheel alignment afterward to prevent uneven tire wear and handling issues.
- For best results, replace strut mounts in pairs and at the same time as the struts to save on labor costs.
- DIY replacement is not recommended for beginners as it requires a dangerous spring compression tool.
Is Your Element Making a Clunking Noise?
One of the most common signs of a failing strut mount is noise. You might hear a clunking, knocking, or popping sound, especially when driving over bumps, rough roads, or making slow turns into a parking spot. This sound happens when the rubber in the mount wears out, allowing metal parts to hit each other. However, on the Honda Element, a very similar clunking noise can also be caused by worn or loose sway bar end links, which is a frequent issue. Before blaming the strut mounts, it's a good idea to check the sway bar links, 🎬 Watch: How to check if sway bar links are causing clunks. as they are often a simpler and cheaper fix.
Symptoms of a Bad Strut Mount
Besides noise, there are other signs your Element's strut mounts may need replacement:
- Excessive Vibrations: If the mount's rubber insulator is worn, it can no longer absorb road shocks effectively, leading to more vibrations felt through the steering wheel and chassis.
- Steering Problems: A worn strut mount bearing can make steering feel stiff, jerky, or like it's binding. You might also hear a grinding or creaking noise when turning the wheel at low speeds. This is because the bearing is no longer allowing the strut to rotate smoothly.
- Poor Handling: The vehicle may feel less stable, exhibit more body roll in turns, or pull to one side. This instability occurs because the worn mount allows the strut to shift, affecting the suspension geometry.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A severely failed mount can alter the wheel alignment, causing tires to wear unevenly.
- Visible Damage: You may be able to see that the rubber on the mount is cracked, torn, or separated. In some cases, the center of the mount may look off-center within its tower in the engine bay.
Known Issues & Recalls
There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Honda for the front strut mounts on the 2003-2011 Element. While numerous recalls exist for this vehicle, most concern Takata airbags. A recall for a rear trailing arm weld was issued for a small number of 2008 models, but this is unrelated to the front strut mounts.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut Mount
When replacing strut mounts on an older vehicle like the Element, aftermarket parts offer a great balance of quality and value. For this part, you'll find two main tiers of brands.
Premium Aftermarket: KYB
KYB is a well-regarded Japanese manufacturer that made the original struts for many Hondas. Their aftermarket parts are known to meet or exceed original equipment (OE) quality. Forum members and mechanics often recommend KYB for a reliable, long-lasting repair that restores original performance. If your budget allows, KYB is a top choice for ensuring a quiet, smooth ride and proper steering function.
Standard / Value Aftermarket: Mevotech
Mevotech offers parts that are designed to meet OE specifications and provide dependable performance. They are often a more budget-friendly option. While some forum users have reported issues with longevity on other vehicles, Mevotech parts are engineered for durability and can be a solid choice for a daily driver, especially if you are replacing the entire strut assembly and looking to manage costs.
A Note on Complete Strut Assemblies
Many owners choose to replace the entire strut assembly (which includes the strut, spring, and mount) at once. This is called a "quick strut" or "loaded strut." While this saves a lot of labor, some Element owners have reported that the mounts included in cheaper, unbranded complete strut kits can fail very quickly—sometimes in less than a year. If you opt for a complete assembly, choosing one from a reputable brand is highly recommended.
Honda Element Strut Mount Cost
The cost can vary depending on whether you replace just the mount or the entire strut assembly. The prices below are estimates for one side.
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Strut Mount | $60 - $105 |
| New Aftermarket Strut Mount Kit (KYB, Mevotech) | $8.82 - $72.85 |
| Shop Labor (Mount Only) | $150 - $250 per side |
| Shop Labor (Complete Strut Assembly) | $168 - $287 per side |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace struts and mounts at the same time?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The labor required to access the strut mount is nearly the same as replacing the entire strut. Since your Element's struts and mounts have aged together, replacing them at the same time saves you from paying for the same labor twice and ensures all components are fresh.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing strut mounts?
Yes. Replacing the strut mounts will affect your vehicle's suspension geometry. A four-wheel alignment is necessary to ensure proper handling, prevent uneven tire wear, and make sure the vehicle drives straight.
Can I replace just one strut mount?
It is best practice to replace suspension components like struts and mounts in pairs (both front or both rear). This ensures that the handling and ride height are even side-to-side, providing balanced and predictable performance.
What is the difference between a strut mount and a strut bearing?
The strut mount is the entire component that bolts to the car's body. The strut bearing is a specific part within the front strut mounts that allows the strut to pivot when you turn the steering wheel. Often, the bearing is the part that fails and causes steering noises or stiffness. Most strut mount kits include a new bearing.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 51920-SCV-A01
The front strut mount kit for the Honda Element consists of the mount, bearing, and hardware. There are different part numbers for the left and right sides. Additionally, owners report a design difference in the front right spring between 2003-2006 and 2007-2011 models, so ensure you purchase the correct mount for your specific year.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Honda Element:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Element Making a Clunking Noise?
- Symptoms of a Bad Strut Mount
- Known Issues & Recalls
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut Mount
- Premium Aftermarket: KYB
- Standard / Value Aftermarket: Mevotech
- A Note on Complete Strut Assemblies
- Honda Element Strut Mount Cost
- Frequently Asked Questions
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