Maintain your Element · 2003–2011
How To Change Oil in a Honda Element
Your Complete Resource for Honda Element Oil Type, Quantity, Intervals, and More
Introduction
Changing your Honda Element’s oil is a straightforward task that saves money and extends engine life. This guide answers all your questions, from oil type to filter tips, tailored for 2003–2011 models.
Honda manual reference
Quick Specs
Checked against the 2003 and 2011 Honda owner’s manuals and the archived service manual. Sources and correction notes →
Tools & Materials Needed
- Socket wrench (17mm for drain plug)
- Oil filter wrench
- 4–5 quarts of 5W-20 oil (synthetic or conventional)
- Honda OEM (part #15400-PLM-A02) or high-quality oil filter
- Funnel, drain pan, jack stands/ramps, gloves
Buy Honda Element Oil Change Supplies
#1 Oil Pick
Mobil 1 Fully Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-20
- Keep your Honda Element’s engine running smoother, cleaner, and longer with Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-20. Advanced Full Synthetic Formula: Provides superior engine protection compared to conventional oils, even in harsh driving conditions. Specifically recommended by HondaElementParts for Elements. Reduces sludge buildup and deposits, keeping your Element’s engine cleaner for longer. Low-friction formula enhances efficiency, saving you money at the pump.
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OEM Honda K24 Filter
OEM Honda Element Oil Filter 15400-PLM-A02
Ensure your Honda Element’s engine stays in peak condition with the OEM Honda Element Oil Filter (15400-PLM-A02). Designed and manufactured by Honda, this genuine oil filter guarantees a perfect fit, superior filtration, and long-lasting performance for your vehicle. Whether you’re tackling a routine oil change or maintaining your Element for another 100,000 miles, this kit includes everything you need: the oil filter and drain plug crush washers.
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#1 Oil Wrench on Amazon
Workpro Adjustable Oil Filter Pliers W114083A
Tired of struggling with stubborn oil filters during your Honda Element’s DIY oil changes? The WORKPRO W114083A Adjustable Oil Filter Pliers are here to save the day! Designed for durability and ease of use, these pliers provide a rock-solid grip on oil filters of all sizes, making filter removal quick, clean, and frustration-free. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a weekend DIYer, this tool is a must-have for your garage. Fits oil filters from 2-1/4" to 3-1/8" – perfect for Honda Elements and most vehicles. Lightweight design stores easily in your toolbox or Honda Element’s cargo area.
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3D Printed for K24
Honda Element K24 Threaded Oil Funnel
Say goodbye to messy spills and awkward pours with the Honda/Acura Threaded Oil Funnel, the must-have tool for Honda and Acura owners who value clean, efficient oil changes. Designed to screw directly into your vehicle’s oil filler neck, this custom-fit funnel ensures a secure, leak-proof connection, making it easier than ever to add oil without drips or wasted time.
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Step-By-Step Oil Change Process
Prepare the Vehicle
- Warm up the engine for 5 minutes to thin the oil.
- Safely lift the Element using jack stands or ramps.
Before going underneath: Shut the engine off, set the parking brake, chock the wheels and use correctly rated lifting/support equipment on firm, level ground. Jack stands support the vehicle after lifting; they do not lift it. Never work under a vehicle held only by a jack. Hot oil and exhaust parts can burn; let them cool enough to work safely.
Drain Old Oil
- Locate the drain plug under the engine. Use a 17mm socket to remove it, draining oil into a pan.
Before refilling: Reinstall the original drain bolt with a new sealing washer and tighten to 33 lb-ft. This specification is for the original bolt, not an aftermarket drain valve.
Replace Oil Filter
- Filter Location: Accessible from beneath; use the Honda oil-filter diagram to identify it.
- Twist off the old filter (use a wrench if stuck). Lubricate the new filter’s gasket with fresh oil before installing. Tighten according to the instructions supplied with your filter.
Check the sealing surface: Remove any old gasket still stuck to the engine. Use the pliers for removal, not to guess an installation torque. Honda’s archived service procedure specifies ¾ turn after gasket contact for its referenced filter; the owner manuals direct you to the instructions supplied with the replacement filter.
Refill Oil
- Add 4.4 US quarts (4.2 L) of 5W-20 oil. Check the dipstick; aim for the “Full” mark.
Capacity includes the filter: Honda lists 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) in both the 2003 and 2011 manuals. The 4.2 US qt figure is an oil change without replacing the filter—not a later-model exception. Confirm the final level on the dipstick; do not automatically empty a five-quart jug.
Post-Change Checks
- Start the engine, check for leaks. Reset the maintenance minder (if equipped).
Final check: Replace the filler cap. After starting, the oil-pressure light should go out within five seconds; if it does not, shut the engine off and inspect your work. Check for leaks, then switch off, wait several minutes on level ground and recheck the dipstick. Reset the service reminder only after completing the indicated service.
FAQ’s
Q: What oil type does a Honda Element use?
5W-20 is recommended for all 2003–2011 models. Synthetic offers better performance, especially in extreme temperatures.
Q: How often should I change the oil?
Follow the maintenance schedule in your model-year owner’s manual, including its severe-use guidance, or the Maintenance Minder if equipped. Synthetic oil does not override Honda’s oil and filter intervals. The 2011 manual also calls for an annual oil change if no service message appears within 12 months.
Q: Oil capacity for a 2003 2.4L Element?
4.4 US quarts (4.2 L) with the filter. Honda lists the same capacity in the 2011 manual. The 4.2 US quart figure is without a filter change.
Q: Oil filter tips?
Warm the engine to ease removal. Use a filter wrench if stuck. Ensure the old gasket isn’t stuck to the engine.
Q: Disposal tips?
Store used oil in a sealed container and bring it to a recycling center or an auto shop that accepts it. Check local acceptance rules and any fees first.
Pro Tips
- Avoid Over-tightening: Original drain plug torque = 33 lb-ft. Over-tightening can strip threads.
- Check for Leaks: After the first drive, inspect the filter and drain plug.
- Use a Funnel: Prevent spills when refilling.
Why This Matters
Regular oil changes prevent engine wear. The Honda Element’s K24 engine is reliable but thrives on timely maintenance. The other Maintenance you Need to Do is to Adjust your Valves which I’ve Covered Here
Join the Community
For model-specific advice, visit the DIY Honda Element Owners Facebook Group—a treasure trove of DIY insights.
Technical Resources
Honda Element Technical Service Bulletins
Over the years Honda has released a number of TSB's to help Honda technicians repair common problems. We got our hands on them and they are all presented here to help you fix some of these common issues at home.
Honda Element Service Manual
The ultimate guide for servicing your Honda Element. This manual will show you everything you need to know about servicing your Honda Element, from oil changes to torque specs. It also provides helpful tips to maintain your Element.
Honda Element Diagnostic Code Meanings
Full list of all of the possible OBD2 code readings that can occur when that pesky check engine light illuminates. These can give you a start to help you diagnose your Element. Code Reader Link also provided if you want to own your own reader.
Honda References & Technical Updates
- 2003 Honda owner’s manual, printed pages 221–224: oil grade, filter instructions, new washer, capacity, drain-bolt torque and final checks.
- 2011 Honda owner’s manual, printed pages 191 and 193–195: oil grade, Maintenance Minder, annual fallback, capacity and oil-change procedure.
- Archived Honda service manual, sections 8-6 and 8-7: oil replacement and filter installation. Open the service-manual resource →
What was corrected in this guide?
The oil-and-filter fill is 4.4 US qt (4.2 L), replacing the 4.44 figure and the unsupported later-model exception. Original drain-bolt torque is corrected from 29 to 33 lb-ft. Filter installation follows its supplied instructions instead of a universal extra ¼ turn. The unverified “front engine side” description now points to Honda’s diagram. Oil intervals follow the applicable Honda schedule or Maintenance Minder, rather than oil type alone. Recycling acceptance and fees vary by location.
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