Honda Element intermittent front end noise at freeway speeds after tire rotation on Honda Element

Submitted by brendflong · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Honda Element owners report experiencing intermittent front end noise at freeway speeds after a tire rotation, which may be attributed to several factors. These owners often find that uneven wear patterns on the tires can lead to loud noises, particularly if the wear is not symmetrical. Additionally, cupping of the tires, which can be identified by a tire technician, may indicate underlying issues such as bad ball joints or damaged suspension components. Front end vibrations felt in the seat and steering wheel are also reported, often linked to problems with various front suspension components like strut assemblies and tie rod ends. Some owners suspect that the noise could stem from the bearing perch on the front strut assembly rather than the strut itself, potentially affecting vehicle handling. Furthermore, checking the CV joints for wear is recommended, as issues with bad CV joints or cracked boots may cause noise under load. If the noise intensifies while the vehicle is in motion, it may indicate a problem with the rear differential, prompting some owners to consider servicing it. Therefore, a thorough inspection of the tires, front suspension components, CV joints, and rear differential is advisable to accurately diagnose the source of the noise.

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Honda Element vehicles with this problem

1 model year affected
Average mileage: 143,000 miles
(143,000 - 143,000)

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