Stumbled on this while my husband was trying to fix my sister’s 07 Honda Element after trying everything he could think of. We figured “why not” nothing else has worked. We took it apart and cleaned it like the other post said he did and it worked.....yeah thank you so much you saved my marriage!!
Part # 18-0604. You really save my ass on this one. such an easy fix. I thought it was something completely different, but your video showed the exact problem. It was so easy to fix, that I replaced the part in the parking lot of the parts store in about 20 minutes. For anyone else in need of this part, the part #18-0604. The parts reps at the part store were a little confused by the term "Relay". In the store computer it is a "switch". The part number will cease any confusion. Thanks again for making the video, it is a great service to the community.
Thanks for this video! My '04 Element does the "buzzing/Clicking" intermittently when starting the engine. Recently, seems like I had to turn the key "harder" (all the way to the end) to get the starter going. I thought it was a problem with the Key/Ignition problem and was dreading the thought of taking it to the Honda dealer because of the cost for parts and labor. I watched your video and decided to follow this video. Went to my local O'Reilly Auto Parts Store. Bought the part for $49.99 Replaced the Starter/Ignition Relay. YIPEE It works..no more Buzzing/clicking and the engine starts easily when I turn the key. You saved me lots of money and Time. Thanks for taking the time to record and post this video!
I ordered the part from Amazon. Arrived 2 days later. Took me an hour to an hour and a half to install it. Simple, just like the video says. Works like a charm. Saved us mucho dinero. Thank you so much for sharing this fix. Don't know how much the Honda dealership would have charged. Probably hundreds! Life is good! Thank you.
Add me to the list of people who saved a BUNCH of MONEY by following your awesome advice. I was looking down the barrel of a $250 ignition switch replacement when I found this video. $17 part online, 35 minutes, five Phillips head screws (One is a bit of a bi*** to get to) and my Element starts with no issues no matter how slowly I turn the key. THANK YOU, YOU ROCK! You saved me hundreds of dollars.
Super helpful, problem fixed! My son came back from college and then the car wouldn't start. Saw this video, ran to the Honda parts dept and fixed it in 20 mins. Total cost $65 including tax. Thanks again
PERFECT! I was about to change the starter for the 3rd time since everything I read on the forums kept saying it's a starter issue. Glad I stumbled on this. Changed the switch a it perfectly starts like how it's suppose to. THANX!
Thanks so much for this. I assumed the ignition would be a much harder fix. Thanks for make it clear in a short video without all the intro and follow me for more tips crap that some others do. Bless you.
Right on! After reading other's comments.. This sure sounds like what's happening. Way cool! Thanks for taking the time. We poor folks couldn't survive without amazing generous people doing little things that make a HUGE difference.
I had this problem for a year or so. Turning the key really quickly would usually start the car, but it would sometimes take 10+ tries. I had taken it to the dealer twice and both times they recommended basically over a thousand of dollars worth or work replacing starter, immobilizer, etc. Got mine on eBay for around $30. THANKS FOR THE VIDEO!
I know this video is a few years old, but I have to comment with a big "THANK YOU!" I was having this intermittent starting issue with my 04 Element and was perplexed because the battery tested good and I did not have the buzzing sound you indicated. I did like one of the others below mentioned, and just took it apart, cleaned the contacted, added new dielectric grease, and problem solved!!
Huge help! That second screw below the switch was a pain to get to, but, i got it with some determination. Cost me $51.51 for a new switch from Napa auto parts. Saved me $400-$600. Thanks!
how did you get that back screw off? i cant get a screwdriver or anything in there theres a bar in the way i have 08 element how did you get that back screw off?
My element had what seemed like the same problem, without the buzzing sound. I pulled out the ignition switch like you suggested, but instead of buying a new one right off, I checked it to the best of my abilities across all the copper terminals with a meter, and it appeared to be fine. I then watched another video which showed that you can just barely see a tiny section of the starter motor under the exhaust manifold (which is apparently a real pain to replace due to its location), so I took a long, thin steel bar and snaked it down right through the two middle pipes of the exhaust manifold, touched it to the starter motor, and then tapped the end of the bar with a hammer a few times. Then I got behind the steering wheel and tried to start the car. It turned a few times, but not enough to start. Since it would not turn AT ALL before, I knew I was on the right track, so I went back out and did the same tapping thing, but a tiny bit harder this time, and several more taps than before. Car started right up after that!! Looks like I may have confirmed that it was the starter motor the whole time. Thanks for the video about the switch, though!
cool. our starter will sometimes just click a couple times then turns. been doing that for a while now. waiting on that to break before i attack the starter. lol
Great video! I had the identical problem on my 2003 Honda Accord. Just paid the Honda Dealer $281.14 (parts and labor) to replace the “Ignition Switch (Electrical Portion).” Part Number HCN 35130-SAA-J51 and description of “Switch, Steering-SPO.” Turn the key all the way to start and hear clicks form the solenoid relay under the dash. The defect is grease on the “switch’s start contacts” that intermittently lets enough power through to allow the relay to operate. Seems to be similar switch on most Honda models. This solution assumes your battery is good, terminals are conducting, starter motor & solenoid are working, and ignition key & switch are working.
+Anthony Dunk Also, here's a tip: To keep your car going until you get a replacement part, you can do what I did. Take off the ignition switch unit, and unclip the black back-shell and then carefully remove the white plastic layer also using a small screw driver to prise the lugs out. You will then see the contacts. In my case these were dirty and covered in grease. I assume the grease was originally there for lubricating the movement of these contacts, but in my case it was dirty and probably causing a problem with the connection. So I carefully wiped off all the grease with a cloth and then cleaned the contacts of any remaining residue using mineral turpentine as a solvent. This made the car start reliably everytime. While it may not be a good idea to remove the grease for long term use, this should keep it going for the few weeks until the spare part arrives from overseas.
+Anthony Dunk Update: While the ignition switch contacts might have been part of the issue, after cleaning them, I was still getting the fail to start issue sometimes. But I think I have finally resolved it now. The issue was that the spade lug connector on solenoid on the actual starter motor was not making good contact. This was so loose that it could easily be pulled off. So, I cut off the existing connector and soldered a new spade connector onto the wire and seems to have fixed the issue now. The solenoid wire is the thick black and white one. It goes all the way from the ignition switch to the starter motor (In some models I believe there are also relays in the circuit, but for my Australian model there does not seem to be any - it's a direct line from the ignition swtch to the starter solenoid). Note that to access the solenoid connection, you need to remove the cowling under the engine and reach up from below. If the solenoid does not have enough current to pull in, the starter motor does not get power and will not turn over. So this is why you turn the key and there is just a slight hum, but otherwise silence. I hope this info helps someone else with this issue.
This was my exact problem I called the auto parts store and they had the part picked it up right after this video 5 minutes to put it in and works perfectly I can't thank you enough for this simple video that took a ton of stress off me
Good vid, thanks...mine makes the same zappy buzzing sound, but after replacing my switch, I still get one click, no crank, no start I will check all fuses (not just 16) and I will check the relay...my starter was replaced recently
I sure hope this is all thats wrong with mine. 😭 If i change it out and it doesn't work. Im gonna be so upset .lol. Sounds like its done helped alot of people. 😁 Thanx
My element has had intermittent starting issues for 6 months or so today it finally wouldn't start. I'm inclined to think it's still the starter cuz every once in awhile there's a glimmer of hope... But it never does fully turn over but I can faintly hear the starter trying to engage every once in awhile. I may try this fix to see if that's the culprit and if I'm getting enough power to the starter or at least getting it on a consistent basis.
yes, I had to snap mine fwd fast to get it to start at the beginning, But it finally wore out. lucky it happened in my drive way and not while I was out. lol
My 03 element was making the same sound. I changed the part but unfortunately it was not the problem. Guess i gotta change the starter. This video really helped with diagnosing a possible problem. On a side note, i did end up taking the switch apart and found that it had some buildup of carbon. I am not sure if that has anything to do with the no start problem.
Mine made no buzzing, just silence instead of the starter turning. Tried 10 times, nothing. I got out, got a long jack handle out of my other vehicle. Slid the jack handle down between the intake runners and tapped the starter 3 times. Sat back down in the Element, turned the key and bam, it started. I ordered a starter brush kit off eBay (many set part numbers work across many cars) and rebuilt it myself.
Would you recommend switching this part out before doing a starter swap? I have a new starter and only Sunday's to work on it, so I was planning on tearing into it tomorrow unless this would work then I'll order and wait and install after work one day.
I have a 2007 Honda Element SC - Having similar issues, but does not have the buzzing sound. After several attempts it turns on or if I wait a few minutes it starts up. Took it to AutoZone battery, alternator, and starter passed all testing. Do you think in your personal experience this might be my issue?
Not yet. Sometimes the stater will sound like the Bendix is sticking, I just hear a click, but a few cycles of the key get it going. It hasn't stranded me yet. KNOCK ON WOOD. Probably could use a new starter, but I'll wait until it really breaks. LOL
My 04 is starting to make that noise for sure and my lights in side are flirting ! I was going to say starter should I try this first? And do you have a link of the part I need :)
I've been a mechanic for 45 yrs. I stopped working on "newer" cars around 2000. Automobiles are becoming way too complicated and way too expensive to work on. I believe someone forgot the old adage "simplicity is the ultimate in sophistication." I'm doing restoration work on "older" vehicles. At ant rate, I watched you video (very informative), however this did not fix my problem. I ordered a new starter switch, installed it and...same problem. Engine will not turn (crank) over. My girl had a starter installed (I wasn't around) almost 2 yrs ago. I do hear a clicking sound under the hood as I'm turning the key. I hope its not the solenoid/starter. Any help is appreciated. Shal ' aam Aleichem AAPiY Mike
Sorry to hear that. Have you tried to jump the relay for the starter? Its directly under the steering wheel. if you jump that and you still just hear a click then it most likely is your starter. Maybe bad bendix?
I can't believe the starter crapped out in less than 2 yrs. I have a 1976 Chevy G-10 van that my mom and pop (RIP both) bought in '76. It has 850,000 miles on it (eng about to die) and I've only put 4 starters on it since day one. Automobiles today are nothing but fancy looking overpriced junk.
Seannale Estrada probably the starter. Can you check to see if you are getting power to the starter plug when you turn the key? If you are, then it's a bad starter. And elements are notorious for having bad starters
1:45 pause. that thing on the bottom of the steering column to the right of the white plastic cover, gets really hot when i drive. what is it and is it normal for it to get hot, almost to hot to touch
I have a 2006 Honda Element with the same problem got the part but I cannot get the shroud cover off to replace the part. I removed the three screws but the shroud will not come off. Any help would be appreciated, thanks.
I think they might snap together so you should just be able to pull them and they will un snap. It's been so long since I did that I don't remember exactly
how do you remove the back screw on the ignition switch? i cant get a screwdriver or anything up in there?the video doesnt show this how did you get to the back screw of the ignition switch? Do you have to take the whole ignition itself out or what? is there a special tool you use or something? theres no way to get anything to torque it off. My element is 2008 just fyi any help apreciated
I don't remember it being hard at all. I think it was just 2 screws that were easily accessed. Been years since I did this. Mine is a 2004 so they might have changed something. But I kind of doubt it.
I removed the starter cut off relay to test it on another car. Put it back in my car, now my Element won't start. Tested the relay and hear a click so it's working fine. Is there a "reboot" for this car?
charles910 Hummm, that is weird. any noise at all when you try to start it? Click or buzz? Might want to disconnect/reconnect the battery for a few minutes to see if that will reset it.
Beach N Wheelchairs No noise anywhere, removed the battery for a while, that did not fix it. All electrical works fine, I wonder if I may have killed the starter solenoid. I wonder if this car have a starter fuse somewhere.
Beach N Wheelchairs The dealer guy said they are very sensitive. I cannot hear a click when I used 5v, only at 9v+ do I hear a click on the copper side. Silent on the aluminum side. I think I will go buy a new relay.
charles910 I'm not 100% on the 5vdc thing. But I think I remember reading that somewhere. Yea, new relay is a cheap T/S step. Might also want to use a meter and check to see if the relay receptacle is getting power when you turn the key.
(I did replace this part only to find out this wasn't the solution. Car still won't start) To answer your ? It's mostly silent. There is a hum that sounds like it's coming from behind the glove box and a little fluttering sound (like a small fan being turned off) located near the steering wheel. But they only last for a second then stop. I think the problem might be something to do with a security system that I was told was disabled when I bought the car. But I'm not sure. Thanks for any help.
+AngelarmSpartan777 Have you checked for power at the starter relay? Its directly under the steering wheel, little panel you have to take off to see it. Make sure it's getting the voltage it needs there, (I believe it's only 5 vdc) also check to see the the relay tests good.
I figured out what it was. Even though I just changed the Starter a couple months ago, it's something to do with the Starter. :-/ I was able to get a screwdriver through the manifold and wiggle the wire going to the starter. It started up after doing that.
My Honda element just refused to start, you turn the key and you can hear the starter try to engage but it won't quite turn over, at first blush the battery appears to be good. Is the problem you are talking about? It's been many years since I worked on cars, under the hood it may as well be a star ship compared to the old jeeps I used to fix. Very puzzled...
Beach N Wheelchairs It has done this once before but it finally did turn over and start but now it doesn't. How do I make sure the battery isn't the problem? I only have one car and the honda is it so I can't go to a parts store and have it tested. I put a charger on the battery but it didn't help.
Thanks so much for sharing! Wanted to ad that this solved my problem on a 2008 Honda CRV. Also worked for this guy on a 2003 Honda Accord (three videos)...ruclips.net/video/a_ZyEl8j3hI/видео.html. You can use genuine Honda part #35130 SAAJ51 Ignition switch from dealership for $68. The clamshell steering cover is just three screws below, but for some models tricky to remove and might be harder than replacing the part itself. Just in case, disconnect your battery (negative terminal first) for safety, but make sure you have radio theft code handy.
PERFECT! I was about to change the starter for the 3rd time since everything I read on the forums kept saying it's a starter issue. Glad I stumbled on this. Changed the switch a it perfectly starts like how it's suppose to. THANX!
Stumbled on this while my husband was trying to fix my sister’s 07 Honda Element after trying everything he could think of. We figured “why not” nothing else has worked. We took it apart and cleaned it like the other post said he did and it worked.....yeah thank you so much you saved my marriage!!
Part # 18-0604. You really save my ass on this one. such an easy fix. I thought it was something completely different, but your video showed the exact problem. It was so easy to fix, that I replaced the part in the parking lot of the parts store in about 20 minutes. For anyone else in need of this part, the part #18-0604. The parts reps at the part store were a little confused by the term "Relay". In the store computer it is a "switch". The part number will cease any confusion.
Thanks again for making the video, it is a great service to the community.
Thanks man, glad it worked for you.
Thanks for this video! My '04 Element does the "buzzing/Clicking" intermittently when starting the engine. Recently, seems like I had to turn the key "harder" (all the way to the end) to get the starter going. I thought it was a problem with the Key/Ignition problem and was dreading the thought of taking it to the Honda dealer because of the cost for parts and labor. I watched your video and decided to follow this video. Went to my local O'Reilly Auto Parts Store. Bought the part for $49.99 Replaced the Starter/Ignition Relay. YIPEE It works..no more Buzzing/clicking and the engine starts easily when I turn the key. You saved me lots of money and Time. Thanks for taking the time to record and post this video!
I ordered the part from Amazon. Arrived 2 days later. Took me an hour to an hour and a half to install it. Simple, just like the video says. Works like a charm. Saved us mucho dinero. Thank you so much for sharing this fix. Don't know how much the Honda dealership would have charged. Probably hundreds! Life is good! Thank you.
Add me to the list of people who saved a BUNCH of MONEY by following your awesome advice.
I was looking down the barrel of a $250 ignition switch replacement when I found this video.
$17 part online, 35 minutes, five Phillips head screws (One is a bit of a bi*** to get to) and my Element starts with no issues no matter how slowly I turn the key.
THANK YOU, YOU ROCK! You saved me hundreds of dollars.
Awesome
Super helpful, problem fixed! My son came back from college and then the car wouldn't start. Saw this video, ran to the Honda parts dept and fixed it in 20 mins. Total cost $65 including tax. Thanks again
Hi! Where can I get that part? I’ve been finding the hole switch only
PERFECT! I was about to change the starter for the 3rd time since everything I read on the forums kept saying it's a starter issue. Glad I stumbled on this. Changed the switch a it perfectly starts like how it's suppose to. THANX!
Thanks so much for this. I assumed the ignition would be a much harder fix. Thanks for make it clear in a short video without all the intro and follow me for more tips crap that some others do. Bless you.
Right on! After reading other's comments.. This sure sounds like what's happening. Way cool! Thanks for taking the time. We poor folks couldn't survive without amazing generous people doing little things that make a HUGE difference.
You Sir are a lifesaver. Tough part was taking it apart at 5:45 am in the dark.
+Ryan Williams Glad this video helped you! :)
Thanks. You just fixed mine. I didn't buy one just took the switch apart and cleaned it up and repaired the worn contacts. Works fine. Thanks again.
newfsareus how did you clean it ?
How did u clean it????
Thanks for posting this. Saved me a trip to the mechanic.
Me and my husband worked on it tonight and it started! Thank you!
Thanks for posting this because my car is just now doing this and its a 2005!
I appreciate your easy and Clear directions. Thanks
Thanks B&B for your efforts and comments. You've got a new subscriber!
I had this problem for a year or so. Turning the key really quickly would usually start the car, but it would sometimes take 10+ tries. I had taken it to the dealer twice and both times they recommended basically over a thousand of dollars worth or work replacing starter, immobilizer, etc. Got mine on eBay for around $30. THANKS FOR THE VIDEO!
Awesome!! Glad I could help. :)
YEP! Worked for me too, though my starter relay never made noise. THANK YOU!
Thanks! I had this problem with my 2008 Element. Replaced the part last night and it works perfectly now :-)
thanks bud it cost me about 40 bucks and it fixed the problem, i appreciate it!!
+manacaism Cool man! Glad it helped you!
Thank you so much!! Holy crap i cant believe this was the fix.
This is exactly what ours needed. Thank you!
I know this video is a few years old, but I have to comment with a big "THANK YOU!"
I was having this intermittent starting issue with my 04 Element and was perplexed because the battery tested good and I did not have the buzzing sound you indicated. I did like one of the others below mentioned, and just took it apart, cleaned the contacted, added new dielectric grease, and problem solved!!
Son of a Biscuit...I hope this is my problem. My 08 was a pain to change starter. Thanks man good video
Quick and to the point. Good job.
Thank a lot Buddy, it fixed the problem ,Amazon $18.88 .Mechanic would have changed me $$$. U save the day 1:54
Huge help! That second screw below the switch was a pain to get to, but, i got it with some determination. Cost me $51.51 for a new switch from Napa auto parts. Saved me $400-$600. Thanks!
Awesome!
how did you get that back screw off? i cant get a screwdriver or anything in there theres a bar in the way i have 08 element how did you get that back screw off?
Hell yes. Thank you. I'm gonna do this ASAP.
My element had what seemed like the same problem, without the buzzing sound. I pulled out the ignition switch like you suggested, but instead of buying a new one right off, I checked it to the best of my abilities across all the copper terminals with a meter, and it appeared to be fine. I then watched another video which showed that you can just barely see a tiny section of the starter motor under the exhaust manifold (which is apparently a real pain to replace due to its location), so I took a long, thin steel bar and snaked it down right through the two middle pipes of the exhaust manifold, touched it to the starter motor, and then tapped the end of the bar with a hammer a few times. Then I got behind the steering wheel and tried to start the car. It turned a few times, but not enough to start. Since it would not turn AT ALL before, I knew I was on the right track, so I went back out and did the same tapping thing, but a tiny bit harder this time, and several more taps than before. Car started right up after that!! Looks like I may have confirmed that it was the starter motor the whole time. Thanks for the video about the switch, though!
cool. our starter will sometimes just click a couple times then turns. been doing that for a while now. waiting on that to break before i attack the starter. lol
SAVED ME HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS. Thank you so much, also quite empowering to fix the problem yourself ^_^
Great video! I had the identical problem on my 2003 Honda Accord. Just paid the Honda Dealer $281.14 (parts and labor) to replace the “Ignition Switch (Electrical Portion).” Part Number HCN 35130-SAA-J51 and description of “Switch, Steering-SPO.” Turn the key all the way to start and hear clicks form the solenoid relay under the dash. The defect is grease on the “switch’s start contacts” that intermittently lets enough power through to allow the relay to operate. Seems to be similar switch on most Honda models. This solution assumes your battery is good, terminals are conducting, starter motor & solenoid are working, and ignition key & switch are working.
These are my exact symptoms. I replaced the starter 2 months ago and the mechanic didn't believe that was the issue. Now this problem is back
Thanks this video was great -- it solved my exact problem! Respect!
Sweet!
great video .. helped a lot . I saved 200 dollar doing it based on your video
Awesome video and info!!! Thank you!
Awesome thanks for sharing. This ended up being the problem that was sometimes stopping my 2002 CR-V from starting.
cool!!!
+Anthony Dunk Also, here's a tip: To keep your car going until you get a replacement part, you can do what I did. Take off the ignition switch unit, and unclip the black back-shell and then carefully remove the white plastic layer also using a small screw driver to prise the lugs out. You will then see the contacts. In my case these were dirty and covered in grease. I assume the grease was originally there for lubricating the movement of these contacts, but in my case it was dirty and probably causing a problem with the connection. So I carefully wiped off all the grease with a cloth and then cleaned the contacts of any remaining residue using mineral turpentine as a solvent. This made the car start reliably everytime. While it may not be a good idea to remove the grease for long term use, this should keep it going for the few weeks until the spare part arrives from overseas.
+Anthony Dunk Update: While the ignition switch contacts might have been part of the issue, after cleaning them, I was still getting the fail to start issue sometimes. But I think I have finally resolved it now. The issue was that the spade lug connector on solenoid on the actual starter motor was not making good contact. This was so loose that it could easily be pulled off. So, I cut off the existing connector and soldered a new spade connector onto the wire and seems to have fixed the issue now. The solenoid wire is the thick black and white one. It goes all the way from the ignition switch to the starter motor (In some models I believe there are also relays in the circuit, but for my Australian model there does not seem to be any - it's a direct line from the ignition swtch to the starter solenoid).
Note that to access the solenoid connection, you need to remove the cowling under the engine and reach up from below. If the solenoid does not have enough current to pull in, the starter motor does not get power and will not turn over. So this is why you turn the key and there is just a slight hum, but otherwise silence.
I hope this info helps someone else with this issue.
Fixed it thus morning thank you
This was my exact problem I called the auto parts store and they had the part picked it up right after this video 5 minutes to put it in and works perfectly I can't thank you enough for this simple video that took a ton of stress off me
Worked for me as well! Thanks for the video.
:)
Im going to try this😫 my car just turned off at a gas station. Thank youu
Thanks... I was almost got ripped off. Someone quoted me $350 to fix this simple issue. :)
Thank man. This was a life saver!
Dan Kim awesome!
Much abliged, good sir.
Good vid, thanks...mine makes the same zappy buzzing sound, but after replacing my switch, I still get one click, no crank, no start
I will check all fuses (not just 16) and I will check the relay...my starter was replaced recently
Ever figure this out? Same for me 😢
I sure hope this is all thats wrong with mine. 😭 If i change it out and it doesn't work. Im gonna be so upset .lol. Sounds like its done helped alot of people. 😁 Thanx
Thank you
My element has had intermittent starting issues for 6 months or so today it finally wouldn't start. I'm inclined to think it's still the starter cuz every once in awhile there's a glimmer of hope... But it never does fully turn over but I can faintly hear the starter trying to engage every once in awhile. I may try this fix to see if that's the culprit and if I'm getting enough power to the starter or at least getting it on a consistent basis.
Thank you !!!
I’ll try this next time
yes, I had to snap mine fwd fast to get it to start at the beginning, But it finally wore out. lucky it happened in my drive way and not while I was out. lol
My 03 element was making the same sound. I changed the part but unfortunately it was not the problem. Guess i gotta change the starter. This video really helped with diagnosing a possible problem.
On a side note, i did end up taking the switch apart and found that it had some buildup of carbon. I am not sure if that has anything to do with the no start problem.
Same for me 😢 what was it afterall??
@@WheelLoveTV Yeah it was the starter :( good luck
Thank you for this! I think mine is just starting to have this issue so I’m going to replace it to get ahead of it! Thank you!! John
Mine made no buzzing, just silence instead of the starter turning. Tried 10 times, nothing. I got out, got a long jack handle out of my other vehicle. Slid the jack handle down between the intake runners and tapped the starter 3 times. Sat back down in the Element, turned the key and bam, it started. I ordered a starter brush kit off eBay (many set part numbers work across many cars) and rebuilt it myself.
Would you recommend switching this part out before doing a starter swap? I have a new starter and only Sunday's to work on it, so I was planning on tearing into it tomorrow unless this would work then I'll order and wait and install after work one day.
Man, not sure. I know the starter is a bear to get out. guess it couldn't hurt to try. does your starter click or make any noise?
Thanks for this video. I thought it was the key. How long do you have when it happens until it stops completely?
Mine worked for over a year
Same issue, changed that stupid thing and now works well. Will sell the element and get a Nissan or Toyota. No more HOnda!
marius anghel - Really? hu. must of just got a vary rare bad one. Mine's been road hard before I bought it cheep, and till this relay, been amazing.
I have a 2007 element and I'm not finding the Phillips screws that attach the lower trim cover, are they Phillips or torq?
I believe they were philips. And the screws that held the electrical component were torx
I wonder if all those WD40 baths into the sticky lock cylinder eventually drowned the switch? It is downstream.
I have a 2007 Honda Element SC - Having similar issues, but does not have the buzzing sound. After several attempts it turns on or if I wait a few minutes it starts up. Took it to AutoZone battery, alternator, and starter passed all testing. Do you think in your personal experience this might be my issue?
+Pete H Worth a shot for sure! You've already done A LOT of work.
Are you having same problem? The buzzing sound?
Can you please tell me how to repair Ignition Switch? Key wouldn't go in or out.
Sometimes mine would do that. I would just wiggle the key and shake the steering wheel. And Spray some lubricant in the key way.
Hey there, so after 6 or 8 months, did you ever have to replace the starter? Or has replacing the ignition switch been a permanent fix?
Not yet. Sometimes the stater will sound like the Bendix is sticking, I just hear a click, but a few cycles of the key get it going. It hasn't stranded me yet. KNOCK ON WOOD. Probably could use a new starter, but I'll wait until it really breaks. LOL
My 04 is starting to make that noise for sure and my lights in side are flirting ! I was going to say starter should I try this first? And do you have a link of the part I need :)
Somewhere in these comments a person has a link to it.
What is this, what did you buy?
I've been a mechanic for 45 yrs. I stopped working on "newer" cars around 2000. Automobiles are becoming way too complicated and way too expensive to work on. I believe someone forgot the old adage "simplicity is the ultimate in sophistication."
I'm doing restoration work on "older" vehicles.
At ant rate, I watched you video (very informative), however this did not fix my problem.
I ordered a new starter switch, installed it and...same problem. Engine will not turn (crank) over. My girl had a starter installed (I wasn't around) almost 2 yrs ago. I do hear a clicking sound under the hood as I'm turning the key. I hope its not the solenoid/starter.
Any help is appreciated.
Shal ' aam Aleichem
AAPiY
Mike
Sorry to hear that. Have you tried to jump the relay for the starter? Its directly under the steering wheel. if you jump that and you still just hear a click then it most likely is your starter. Maybe bad bendix?
I can't believe the starter crapped out in less than 2 yrs.
I have a 1976 Chevy G-10 van that my mom and pop (RIP both) bought in '76. It has 850,000 miles on it (eng about to die) and I've only put 4 starters on it since day one.
Automobiles today are nothing but fancy looking overpriced junk.
I am having this issue and we actually replaced that part today and still nothing. Any other suggestions?
Seannale Estrada probably the starter. Can you check to see if you are getting power to the starter plug when you turn the key? If you are, then it's a bad starter. And elements are notorious for having bad starters
1:45 pause. that thing on the bottom of the steering column to the right of the white plastic cover, gets really hot when i drive. what is it and is it normal for it to get hot, almost to hot to touch
Sorry, I don't know about that.
I have a 2006 Honda Element with the same problem got the part but I cannot get the shroud cover off to replace the part. I removed the three screws but the shroud will not come off. Any help would be appreciated, thanks.
I think they might snap together so you should just be able to pull them and they will un snap. It's been so long since I did that I don't remember exactly
Thanks I'll give it a try.
how do you remove the back screw on the ignition switch? i cant get a screwdriver or anything up in there?the video doesnt show this how did you get to the back screw of the ignition switch? Do you have to take the whole ignition itself out or what? is there a special tool you use or something? theres no way to get anything to torque it off. My element is 2008 just fyi any help apreciated
I don't remember it being hard at all. I think it was just 2 screws that were easily accessed. Been years since I did this. Mine is a 2004 so they might have changed something. But I kind of doubt it.
yeah that back screw i cant seem to get to theres a bar there in the way i cant get a screwdriver in there or anything i have tryed lol
Duralast part #LS1182 is exactly like the OEM Honda part and is available at Autozone for $47
Adrian Frost really! hay thanks.
Unfortunately I'm dealing with this issue right now I did the exact same thing in mind still doesn't start
Could be a bad starter then. Honda elements are notorious for that
It was...I changed the starter relay first and then the starter she's back to normal now, thank you
Hi! I can get the part in Autozone
Yes
I removed the starter cut off relay to test it on another car. Put it back in my car, now my Element won't start. Tested the relay and hear a click so it's working fine. Is there a "reboot" for this car?
charles910 Hummm, that is weird. any noise at all when you try to start it? Click or buzz? Might want to disconnect/reconnect the battery for a few minutes to see if that will reset it.
Beach N Wheelchairs No noise anywhere, removed the battery for a while, that did not fix it. All electrical works fine, I wonder if I may have killed the starter solenoid. I wonder if this car have a starter fuse somewhere.
charles910 What voltage did you use to test relay? they run on 5vdc, if you used 12vdc, you probably fried it.
Beach N Wheelchairs The dealer guy said they are very sensitive. I cannot hear a click when I used 5v, only at 9v+ do I hear a click on the copper side. Silent on the aluminum side. I think I will go buy a new relay.
charles910 I'm not 100% on the 5vdc thing. But I think I remember reading that somewhere. Yea, new relay is a cheap T/S step. Might also want to use a meter and check to see if the relay receptacle is getting power when you turn the key.
mine makes no noise at all.
PART # 35130-SAA-J51
what year this Honda Element?
04
Mine is doing the same thing, only without the buzzing sound under the dash. Not sure what to do. :-/
+AngelarmSpartan777 Do you hear the starter making a "click" sound? or is it just totally silent?
(I did replace this part only to find out this wasn't the solution. Car still won't start) To answer your ? It's mostly silent. There is a hum that sounds like it's coming from behind the glove box and a little fluttering sound (like a small fan being turned off) located near the steering wheel. But they only last for a second then stop. I think the problem might be something to do with a security system that I was told was disabled when I bought the car. But I'm not sure.
Thanks for any help.
+AngelarmSpartan777 Have you checked for power at the starter relay? Its directly under the steering wheel, little panel you have to take off to see it. Make sure it's getting the voltage it needs there, (I believe it's only 5 vdc) also check to see the the relay tests good.
I figured out what it was. Even though I just changed the Starter a couple months ago, it's something to do with the Starter. :-/ I was able to get a screwdriver through the manifold and wiggle the wire going to the starter. It started up after doing that.
Well just got the part didn't work for me mines was making the same sounds that winning crack but no luck so I may need a brand new starter u dink???
Elements starters are notorious for breaking.
My Honda element just refused to start, you turn the key and you can hear the starter try to engage but it won't quite turn over, at first blush the battery appears to be good. Is the problem you are talking about? It's been many years since I worked on cars, under the hood it may as well be a star ship compared to the old jeeps I used to fix. Very puzzled...
Do you hear a click under the engine when you try to start it?
The starter tries to turn over but it can't quite make it.
if the starter turns the engine, then you battery must have a bad cell.
Beach N Wheelchairs It has done this once before but it finally did turn over and start but now it doesn't. How do I make sure the battery isn't the problem? I only have one car and the honda is it so I can't go to a parts store and have it tested. I put a charger on the battery but it didn't help.
Beach N Wheelchairs It will maybe turn it over once and then dies, bad battery?
So i replaced this now my car won't turn on at all. The key won't turn and it all worked before. Only problem was that buzzing noise.
That makes no sense. Did you get it fixed?
Help me please I cant find this
It's in the video description
This part is on eBay for $19.99
Thanks so much for sharing! Wanted to ad that this solved my problem on a 2008 Honda CRV. Also worked for this guy on a 2003 Honda Accord (three videos)...ruclips.net/video/a_ZyEl8j3hI/видео.html. You can use genuine Honda part #35130 SAAJ51 Ignition switch from dealership for $68. The clamshell steering cover is just three screws below, but for some models tricky to remove and might be harder than replacing the part itself. Just in case, disconnect your battery (negative terminal first) for safety, but make sure you have radio theft code handy.
J Walsh Good info!! :)
hai
Dammit, that housing! WHY NO ADVICE IN THE VID
Why haven't you SPECIFICALLY NAMED THE PART ? Is it the " power relay " or the quote," the power portion of the entire switching relay " ? unquote .
+Mike Berube Take the time to READ the comments, it's been clarified............
PERFECT! I was about to change the starter for the 3rd time since everything I read on the forums kept saying it's a starter issue. Glad I stumbled on this. Changed the switch a it perfectly starts like how it's suppose to. THANX!
Awesome!!!
Same with me, you saved me 3 days and a lot of $ 🙏🏽