Honda Element vs Jeep Wrangler
For 2005–2011 models, the Honda Element has 22.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 92.2 for the Jeep Wrangler. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2011), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Honda Element
22.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
76% fewer than the Jeep Wrangler
- Complaints
- 468
- Sold
- 210,614
- Recall campaigns
- 14
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Most complaints: 2007–2008. Fewest: 2011. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 116,557 mi
-
Subframe, cradle and frame corrosion
Typically around 168,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 84,287 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 111,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 100,000 mi
Jeep Wrangler
92.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
4.2× the Honda Element’s rate
- Complaints
- 6,104
- Sold
- 661,960
- Recall campaigns
- 15
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 5
Most complaints: 2006–2009. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 55,000 mi
-
Tie rods, linkage, shaft and column
Typically around 6,600 mi · repair $270–$510
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 65,437 mi
-
Tank, lines and filler
Typically around 45,000 mi
-
Shocks and struts
Typically around 17,000 mi · repair $280–$1,440
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Honda Element or the Jeep Wrangler?
For 2005–2011 models, the Honda Element has 22.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Jeep Wrangler has 92.2, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Honda Element?
The most-reported problem on the Honda Element is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 116,557 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Jeep Wrangler?
The most-reported problem on the Jeep Wrangler is body control and other modules, typically around 55,000 miles.
Which Honda Element and Jeep Wrangler years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Honda Element: 2007–2008; Jeep Wrangler: 2006–2009.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.