Honda Element 2003 - 256,000 miles

Hey everyone!

My trusty Element has been chugging along since I bought it brand new in 2003 — it’s been a real trooper! But a couple of months ago, I drove through a deep puddle, and two days later… no start. The engine cranks but just won’t fire up. My mechanic spent a few days digging into it and is convinced the ECU/computer got wet and shorted out.

So here’s where I’m at: Do I give my old buddy a graceful retirement, or should I spring for an aftermarket computer and keep the adventure going? The engine itself is in good shape, it’s still rocking the original catalytic converter, and while the transmission slips sometimes, swapping out the pressure switch every couple of years has kept it rolling. The paint’s seen better days, but hey — that’s just character, right?

Would love to hear your thoughts! Worth saving, or time to say goodbye?

Honda Element 2003 EX