I want to tow a tent trailer with a Honda Element. My tent trailer has a gross weight of 1950 pounds. The towing capacity for the vehicle is 1500 pounds. I am 75 years old and "baby" my trucks, and the transmission has a 30,000 mile or three year warranty. Should I chance it and buy the Honda Element or am I being dumb (as usual)? Thanks for a constructive reply, John
I would say if you are going to "chance" it you best install a transmission cooler. I am no towing expert so I can't say if an excess gross weight of 450 lbs over towing capacity is normal or not. Without expert advice I would be more inclined to source a vehicle with a larger capacity. The Element has a small load capacity of somewehere around 500 to 700 lbs so you better travel light. Best of Luck Mike
I think the question you need to ask is "what is the tongue weight?" I had an 1984 Toyota Tercel 4wd wagon (5 spd) and towed one of those pop-up campers all over the east coast of the US. A whopping engine of about 90 hp. The car did have a "tow package" installed. I would think that with a tow package (transmission cooler, larger radiator, etc.) the Element would have no problems towing such a trailer. I am far from an expert so I would suggest asking your local hitch shop for confirmation. -keith
"Keith J" wrote ... Don't forget braking ability. Does the trailer have brakes? I learned when a deer jumped in front of me. Your experience and luck may vary... -rick-