If you’re looking to add ground clearance and a more aggressive stance to your Honda Element, installing a lift kit is the way to go. This guide will show you exactly how to lift a Honda Element with the HRG Offroad lift kit. The HRG kit is a popular choice for Element owners because it’s designed specifically for our vehicle and provides a solid, reliable lift without needing major modifications.
This step-by-step installation guide is meant for DIYers with some mechanical experience. Always prioritize safety, use proper jack stands, and consult a professional if you’re unsure about any step. Gathering the right tools before you start will make the process much smoother.
How to Lift a Honda Element With the Hrg Offroad Lift Kit
The HRG Offroad lift kit for the Honda Element typically consists of front strut spacers, rear lift blocks, and all necessary hardware. It’s a straightforward body lift that increases the distance between the body/frame and the axles. Let’s get your Element ready for the trail.
Tools and Parts You’ll Need
Before you begin, collect all these items. Having everything on hand will prevent frustrating mid-project trips to the store.
- HRG Offroad Lift Kit (verify all parts are in the box)
- Floor jack and at least two sturdy jack stands
- Lug wrench/breaker bar and socket set
- Torque wrench (extremely important)
- Wrenches (combination, open-end)
- Pry bar or large flathead screwdriver
- Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster or WD-40)
- Hammer
- Threadlocker (blue Loctite is recommended)
- Safety glasses and gloves
Important Safety Precautions
Never skip safety. Your vehicle is heavy and under tension during this process.
- Work on a flat, level, and solid surface like concrete.
- Always use jack stands to support the vehicle. Never rely solely on a jack.
- Engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks for the wheels remaining on the ground.
- Allow the vehicle’s exhaust system to cool completely if you’ve recently driven it.
Pre-Installation Vehicle Prep
Start by loosening the lug nuts on all four wheels while the Element is still on the ground. Then, safely lift the entire front of the vehicle and support it with jack stands under the frame. Do the same for the rear. You want all four wheels off the ground. This relieves tension from the suspension and makes disassembly easier.
Step-by-Step Front Strut Spacer Installation
The front lift is achieved by installing spacers on top of the strut assembly, under the hood. We’ll do one side at a time to maintain a reference point.
- Remove the Front Wheel: With the vehicle securely supported, remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheel.
- Locate the Strut Tower: Open the hood and find the three strut mount nuts on top of the strut tower. They are arranged in a triangle pattern.
- Support the Lower Control Arm: Place your floor jack under the lower control arm near the ball joint. Apply slight pressure to support the arm. This prevents it from dropping suddenly when the strut is disconnected.
- Disconnect the Sway Bar Link: Using your wrenches, disconnect the sway bar end link from the strut. Penetrating oil on the nut beforehand can help if it’s rusty.
- Remove Strut Mount Nuts: Inside the engine bay, remove the three nuts securing the strut to the vehicle’s body. You may need an assistant to hold the strut from below to keep it from spinning.
- Lower the Strut Assembly: Carefully lower the jack under the control arm. This will allow the strut assembly to descend and separate from the body. You can now maneuver the strut out from the wheel well.
- Install the HRG Spacer: Place the HRG spacer on top of the strut mount, aligning the three holes. The spacer fits between the strut mount and the vehicle’s body. Ensure any alignment pins or features are oriented correctly.
- Reinstall the Strut: Lift the strut assembly back into position, guiding the three studs through the spacer and up into the strut tower. You might need to adjust the control arm height with the jack to get everything to line up.
- Tighten Everything: Hand-thread the three new provided nuts (if included) or the original nuts with threadlocker onto the studs. Tighten them down evenly. Reconnect the sway bar link and torque all fasteners to the manufacturer’s specifications. Don’t forget to torque your lug nuts when you put the wheel back on.
- Repeat on the Other Side: Complete the exact same process on the opposite front wheel.
Step-by-Step Rear Lift Block Installation
The rear lift uses blocks that sit between the rear trailing arm and the body mount. It’s generally simpler than the front.
- Remove the Rear Wheel: Safely remove the rear wheel on the side you’re starting with.
- Locate the Trailing Arm Mount: You’ll see where the rear trailing arm connects to the body with a single large bolt. This is the pivot point.
- Support the Trailing Arm: Place your floor jack under the trailing arm, close to the wheel hub, to support its weight.
- Remove the Mounting Bolt: This bolt can be very tight and may have corrosion. Use penetrating oil liberally and allow it to soak. Use your breaker bar to remove the bolt. You may need to tap it out with a hammer if it’s stuck.
- Insert the Lift Block: With the bolt removed, the trailing arm will drop slightly on the jack. Position the HRG lift block into the gap between the arm and the body mount. The block’s hole must align with the holes in the arm and mount.
- Install the New Hardware: HRG provides a longer bolt for this. Apply threadlocker and insert the new bolt through the assembly. Hand-tighten the nut for now.
- Torque to Spec: Lower the jack so the vehicle’s weight is back on the suspension. This is crucial. Then, torque the new bolt to the specified value. Reinstall the wheel and torque the lug nuts.
- Repeat on the Other Side: Complete the identical installation on the opposite rear trailing arm.
Post-Installation Steps and Checks
You’re almost done! Don’t rush these final steps, as they ensure your safety and the vehicle’s proper operation.
- Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the entire vehicle back to the ground using your jack. Remove the jack stands.
- Final Torque Check: Go around and do a final check of every bolt you touched—strut tower nuts, sway bar links, trailing arm bolts, and lug nuts. Ensure they are all torqued correctly.
- Alignment is Mandatory: Lifting your vehicle changes the suspension geometry. You must take your Honda Element to a qualified alignment shop as soon as possible. Driving without an alignment will cause poor handling and rapid tire wear.
- Test Drive: Take a slow, careful test drive on quiet streets. Listen for any unusual noises like clunking or rubbing. Test the brakes and steering at low speed first.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much lift does the HRG kit provide?
The HRG Offroad lift kit for the Honda Element typically provides between 1.5 to 2 inches of lift, depending on the specific kit version. This is often the ideal ammount for maintaining good drivability while gaining clearance.
Will lifting my Element affect my gas mileage?
You may see a slight decrease in fuel economy due to increased aerodynamic drag. The effect is usually minor, often around 1-2 MPG, but it can vary based on your driving habits and if you add larger tires.
Do I need longer brake lines or other modifications?
For the lift height provided by the HRG kit, you typically do not need extended brake lines or modified CV axles. The stock components usually have enough slack to accomodate the lift. However, always inspect them during installation for stress.
Can I install bigger tires after the lift?
Yes, that’s one of the main benefits. The lift kit creates more space in the wheel wells. Most owners can comfortably fit a slightly larger all-terrain tire, such as a 235/70R16, but some minor trimming of the inner fender liner might be necessary to prevent rubbing at full turn.
Is the ride quality going to change?
The ride quality may become slightly firmer because you’re changing the suspension’s operating angle. However, since it’s a spacer lift and not a spring change, the difference is often minimal and well-tolerated by most drivers.
How long does the installation take?
For a mechanically inclined person with the right tools, the entire installation can usually be completed in a weekend afternoon, about 4-6 hours. Taking your time and double-checking your work is more important than speed.
Installing the HRG Offroad lift kit is a rewarding project that significantly enhances your Honda Element’s capability. By following this guide carefully, using the right tools, and completing a post-installation alignment, you’ll ensure a safe and effective lift. Remember to always inspect the lifted components periodically as part of your regular vehicle maintenance routine.