Honda Element Paint Info
The Color Breakdown
Honda really threw out the rulebook with the Element, giving us a massive library of 30 colors that range from "safe suburban" to "tropical vacation." While they offered the classics like Nighthawk Black Pearl and Alabaster Silver Metallic, they truly found their groove with the wilder stuff. They really went for it with shades like the vibrant Kiwi Green Metallic, the citrusy Sunset Orange Pearl, and the fan-favorite Root Beer Metallic. Whether your toaster-on-wheels is a bright Citrus Fire Metallic or a sophisticated Galapagos Green, it's clear Honda wanted this car to stand out in a parking lot full of gray sedans.
What to Watch For
The Element's paint is a bit like a well-loved pair of jeans-it looks great, but it shows its age in specific spots. You might notice the clear coat on the hood or roof starting to look a bit thirsty or even developing tiny "crow's feet" cracks from sitting in the sun. Also, keep an eye on the area around the door handles and the tailgate; these are high-traffic zones where chips love to hide. To find your specific color match, open the driver's door and look for a sticker on the jamb. Your code will usually start with letters like NH, YR, or G (for example, NH-731P)-that's the secret password to getting the right bottle for your driveway fix.
Driveway Repair Tip
Since so many Element colors are "Pearls" or "Metallics," you aren't just applying paint; you're applying a tiny suspension of sparkles. Before you touch that chip, shake your touch-up pen or bottle for at least 60 seconds longer than you think you need to-this wakes up those metallic flakes so they don't all settle at the bottom. When you apply it, think "less is more." Use the tip of the applicator to place a tiny drop inside the chip and let it level out on its own. It's much better to do two thin, patient layers than one big, gloopy mountain of paint that takes forever to dry.