How Many Catalytic Converters Does a Honda Element Have?

The Honda Element has two catalytic converters: a primary (upstream) converter integrated into the exhaust manifold and a secondary (downstream) converter mounted under the floor along the exhaust pipe. This configuration applies to all North American model years (2003–2011), across both front‑wheel drive and Real Time 4WD trims, under Federal and California emissions packages.

Model Years and Configurations Covered

Honda produced the Element from 2003 through 2011 with a 2.4-liter inline-four (K-series) engine. In the U.S. and Canada, all trims and drivetrains share the same two-catalyst layout. California-emissions versions use the same two-converter arrangement, though the primary converter’s substrate and part number differ to meet stricter standards. In practice, owners, technicians, and parts catalogs for the Element list a “front” (or manifold) catalytic converter and a “rear” (or underfloor) catalytic converter.

Where the Catalytic Converters Are Located and What They Do

The Element uses a “close-coupled” primary catalyst to light off quickly and a secondary, underbody catalyst for additional emissions cleanup. Oxygen sensors bracket the primary converter to monitor and control fuel mixture and catalyst efficiency; the secondary converter typically does not have its own dedicated sensor on this engine family, which sometimes leads to confusion during diagnostics.

The following points describe their locations and roles:

• Primary (upstream) catalytic converter: Integrated with or bolted directly to the exhaust manifold at the front of the engine, high up in the engine bay. It heats rapidly after startup for effective control of cold-start emissions.
• Secondary (downstream/underfloor) catalytic converter: Positioned under the vehicle along the exhaust pipe between the engine and the muffler, providing additional conversion of remaining pollutants under load and at cruising speeds.

Together, the two converters ensure the Element meets emissions standards across operating conditions, from cold starts to highway driving.

Why Owners Sometimes Hear Different Answers

Variations in terminology and aftermarket modifications can cause mixed messages about the Element’s catalytic converter count. Understanding the common sources of confusion helps clarify the issue.

• Sensor count vs. converter count: The Element typically has two oxygen sensors monitoring the primary converter; this does not mean there is only one converter.
• Naming conventions: “Front” vs. “rear” can be mistaken as engine bank references; on this inline-four, both refer to position along the exhaust path, not separate banks.
• Aftermarket parts: Some replacement exhaust manifolds or header-and-cat assemblies alter appearances, and custom exhaust work can remove or consolidate components (not road-legal in many jurisdictions).
• Diagnostic codes: Common codes like P0420 reference catalyst efficiency on “Bank 1,” which can be misconstrued as indicating only one converter exists.

In stock form, however, the Element’s exhaust system includes two catalytic converters regardless of emissions package or drivetrain.

How to Verify on Your Vehicle

If you want to confirm your Element’s setup, you can check documentation and perform a quick visual inspection. The steps below help you verify without ambiguity.

• Emissions label: Look under the hood for the Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) label; it will specify the emissions family and catalyst system design.
• Parts diagrams: Consult Honda OEM parts catalogs for your VIN; you’ll see both a front/manifold converter and a rear/underfloor converter listed.
• Visual inspection: From above, locate the manifold-integrated converter at the front of the engine; from beneath (with proper safety supports), trace the exhaust pipe to find the underfloor converter ahead of the resonator/muffler.
• Service records: Dealer or reputable independent shop invoices typically list “front cat/manifold cat” and “rear/underfloor cat” separately.

These checks confirm the two-converter layout on stock vehicles and help identify any non-factory modifications.

Notes on Replacement, Legalities, and Theft Risk

The Element is a known target for catalytic converter theft because the underfloor unit is accessible and contains valuable metals. If replacement is needed, ensure parts meet local laws (CARB-compliant converters are required in California and a few other states). It’s common to replace only the affected unit unless contamination or damage suggests both have been compromised. Typical symptoms of catalyst issues include a check-engine light (often P0420), reduced power, or rotten-egg odors.

Summary

All North American Honda Elements (2003–2011), whether FWD or 4WD and regardless of Federal or California emissions, have two catalytic converters: a primary unit in or at the exhaust manifold and a secondary unit under the vehicle along the exhaust pipe. Exceptions generally arise only from aftermarket modifications; stock vehicles retain both.

How much is a catalytic converter on a Honda element?

between $2,041 and $2,740
The average cost for a Honda Element Catalytic Converter Replacement is between $2,041 and $2,740.

Can you drive a Honda Element without a catalytic converter?

If the vehicle will run well enough to get you from point A to point B, then yes, it’s safe to drive. But catalytic converters don’t always fail the same way. If the converter has failed or is missing, safety won’t be a factor. But you’ll want to replace the converter as soon as you discover the failure or theft.

Do Honda elements have catalytic converters?

MagnaFlow offers industry leading Honda Element Catalytic Converter replacements that will keep your Element running efficient and meet your local emissions compliance.

What are two symptoms of a failed catalytic converter?

If you’re noticing sluggish engine performance, reduced acceleration, a smell of rotten eggs or sulfur from the exhaust, dark exhaust smoke, or extreme heat coming from under the vehicle, these are symptoms of a clogged Catalytic Converter, and it should be repaired soon.