Honda Element. Manual - part 712

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If the rotation of the wheel gradually feels heavy while rotating, there is a problem in the 2WD 
system. Check the differential fluid. If the fluid is normal, replace the torque control differential 
(TCD) case kit. 

Fig. 16: Holding Tire And Turn Tire Counterclockwise 
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC. 

Decelerating in reverse gear (4WD mode) 

1. Block the front wheels (A), raise the left rear wheel, and support it with a safety stand (B) as shown. 

Fig. 17: Identifying Rear Wheels And Safety Stand 
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC. 

2. Hold the tire, and turn it clockwise continuously for more than one rotation. 



If the rotation of the wheel gradually feels heavy while rotating, the 4WD system when 
decelerating in reverse is normal.  



If the rotation of the wheel does not gradually feel heavy while rotating, there is a problem in the 
4WD system. Check the differential fluid. If the fluid is normal, replace the torque control 
differential (TCD) case kit. 

 

2007 Honda Element EX 

2007-08 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Differential - Element

  

Fig. 18: Holding Tire And Turning Counterclockwise 
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC. 

SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING INDEX 

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART 

Symptom

Diagnostic Procedure

Also check for

Will not go into 
4WD mode



Fluid level too low. Add 
recommended fluid.  



Incorrect fluid type. Drain 
and fill the differential with 
the recommended fluid.  

Most problems in the unit are to be diagnosed by 
identifying noises from the gears or bearings. Be 
careful during diagnosis not to confuse 
differential noises with those from other 
drivetrain components.

Will not return to 
2WD mode

Incorrect fluid type. Drain and fill 
the differential with the 
recommended fluid.

Gear or bearing 
noises



Fluid level too low. Add 
recommended fluid.  



Incorrect or worn out fluid. 
Drain and fill the differential 
with the recommended fluid. 



Damaged or chipped gears. 
Replace the differential 
carrier assembly.  

Rear differential 
overheats



Fluid level too low. Add 
recommended fluid.  



Incorrect fluid type. Drain 
and fill the differential with 
the recommended fluid.  



Fluid level too high. Lower 
to proper level.  



Clogged breather line. Clean 
or replace.  

 

2007 Honda Element EX 

2007-08 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Differential - Element

  

REAR DIFFERENTIAL FLUID INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT 

1. Raise the vehicle on the lift.  

2. Remove the filler plug (A) and washer (B), then check the condition of the fluid, and make sure the fluid 

is at the proper level (C). 

Fig. 19: Identifying Fluid Is At Proper Level 
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC. 

3. The fluid level must be up to the fill hole. If it is below the hole, add the recommended fluid until it runs 

out, then reinstall the filler plug with a new washer.  

4. If the fluid is dirty, remove the drain plug (A), and drain the fluid. 

Rear differential 
leaks fluid



Worn or damaged oil seal. 
Replace.  



Damaged sealing washer. 
Replace.  



Loose mounting bolts or 
inadequate sealing. Recheck 
torque or apply sealant.  

Rear differential 
screeches, whines, 
moans, or squeaks



Fluid level too low. Add 
recommended fluid.  



Incorrect or worn out fluid. 
Drain and fill the differential 
with the recommended fluid. 



Incorrect tire rolling 
circumference. Adjust tire 
pressure or replace tires.  



Damaged pump. Replace 
torque control differential 
(TCD) case kit.  

 

2007 Honda Element EX 

2007-08 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Differential - Element

  

Fig. 20: Identifying Drain Plug With Torque Specification 
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC. 

5. Clean the drain plug, then reinstall it with a new washer, and refill the differential with the recommended 

fluid to the proper level. 

Fluid Capacity:  

1.0 L (1.1 US qt) at fluid change  

1.2 L (1.3 US qt) at overhaul  

Recommended fluid: Honda Dual Pump Fluid II (P/N 08200-9007)  

6. Reinstall the filler plug (B) with a new washer.  

REAR DIFFERENTIAL REMOVAL 

1. Drain the differential fluid. Reinstall the drain plug with a new washer (see REAR DIFFERENTIAL 

FLUID INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT ).  

2. Remove the tail pipe (A). 

NOTE:

If you disassemble the differential, check the fluid level again after the 
4WD system check is finished. Add fluid if necessary.

 

2007 Honda Element EX 

2007-08 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Differential - Element