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To remind you of the passenger's front airbag hazards, and that children must be properly restrained in a back seat, your vehicle has warning labels on the dashboard (U.S. models) and on the front visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels.
U.S.Models
SUN VISORS
DASHBOARD
CanadianModels
SUN VISORS
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2009 Element If a child requires physical attention or frequent visual contact, we strongly recommend that another adult ride with the child in the back seat. The back seat is far safer for a child than the front.
Protecting Children － General Guidelines
If a Child Requires Close Attention Many parents say they prefer to put an infant or a small child in the front passenger seat so they can watch the child, or because the child requires attention. Placing a child in the front seat exposes the child to hazards in a frontal collision, and paying close attention to a child distracts the driver from the important tasks of driving, placing both of you at risk.
If You Must Drive with Several Children Your vehicle has two back seats where children can be properly restrained. If you ever have to carry a group of children, and a child must ride in front: ● Place the largest child in the front
seat, provided the child is large enough to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly (see page 49).
● Move the vehicle seat as far to the
rear as possible (see page 83).
● Have the child sit upright and well
back in the seat (see page 15).
● Make sure the seat belt is properly positioned and secured (see page 14).
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2009 Element Protecting Children － General Guidelines
Additional Safety Precautions ● Neverholdaninfantorchildon yourlap.If you are not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could be thrown forward and crush the child against the dashboard or a seat-back. If you are wearing a seat belt, the child can be torn from your arms and be seriously hurt or killed.
● Neverputaseatbeltoveryourself
andachild.During a crash, the belt could press deep into the child and cause serious or fatal injuries.
● Neverlettwochildrenusethe sameseatbelt.If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash.
● Makesureanyunusedseatbelt thatachildcanreachisbuckled, thelockableretractorisactivated, andthebeltisfullyretractedand locked.If a child wraps a loose seat belt around their neck, they can be seriously or fatally injured. (See page 46 for how to activate and deactivate the lockable retractor.)
● Donotleavechildrenaloneina vehicle.Leaving children without adult supervision is illegal in most states, Canadian provinces/ territories, and can be very hazardous. For example, infants and small children left in a vehicle on a hot day can die from heatstroke. A child left alone with the key in the ignition switch can accidentally set the vehicle in motion, possibly injuring themselves or others.
● Lockalldoors,thetailgateandthe
hatchwhenyourvehicleisnotin use.Children who play in vehicles can accidentally get trapped inside. Teach your children not to play in or around vehicles.
● Keepvehiclekeysandremote transmittersoutofthereachof children.Even very young children learn how to unlock vehicle doors, turn on the ignition, and open the tailgate or hatch, which can lead to accidental injury or death.
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2009 Element Protecting Infants and Small Children
Protecting Infants
Two types of seats may be used: a seat designed exclusively for infants, or a convertible seat used in the rear- facing, reclining mode. Donotputarear-facingchildseatin aforward-facingposition.If placed facing forward, an infant could be very seriously injured during a frontal collision.
ChildSeatType An infant must be properly restrained in a rear-facing, reclining child seat until the child reaches the seat maker's weight or height limit for the seat, and the child is at least one year old. Only a rear-facing child seat provides proper support for a baby's head, neck, and back.
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Rear-facingChildSeatPlacement A rear-facing child seat can be placed in any seating position in the back seat, but not in the front. Neverputa rear-facingchildseatinthefrontseat. If the passenger's front airbag inflates, it can hit the back of the child seat with enough force to kill or seriously injure an infant. When properly installed, a rear- facing child seat may prevent the driver or a front passenger from moving their seat as far back as recommended, or from locking their seat-back in the desired position. It could also interfere with proper operation of the passenger's advanced front airbag system.
2009 Element Protecting Infants and Small Children
In any of these situations, we strongly recommend that you install the child seat directly behind the front passenger's seat, move the seat as far forward as needed, and leave it unoccupied. Or, you may wish to get a smaller rear-facing child seat.
Placing a rear-facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury or death during a collision.
Always place a rear-facing child seat in the back seat, not the front.
Protecting Small Children
ChildSeatType A child who is at least 1 year old, and who fits within the child seat maker's weight and height limits, should be restrained in a forward-facing, upright child seat. Of the different seats available, we recommend those that have a five- point harness system as shown.
We also recommend that a small child use the child seat until the child reaches the weight or height limit for the seat. ChildSeatPlacement We strongly recommend placing a forward-facing child seat in a back seat, not the front. Placingaforward-facingchildseatin thefrontseatofavehicleequipped withapassenger'sairbagcanbe hazardous.If the vehicle seat is too far forward, or the child's head is thrown forward during a collision, an inflating airbag can strike the child with enough force to cause very serious or fatal injuries.
CONTINUED 41
2009 Element Protecting Infants and Small Children, Selecting a Child Seat
In seating positions and vehicles not equipped with LATCH, a LATCH- compatible child seat can be installed using a seat belt. Whatever type of seat you choose, to provide proper protection, a child seat should meet three requirements: 1. ThechildseatshouldmeetU.S.or
CanadianMotorVehicleSafety Standard213.Look for FMVSS 213 or CMVSS 213 on the box. 2. Thechildseatshouldbeofthe
propertypeandsizetofitthechild. Rear-facing for infants, forward- facing for small children.
Selecting a Child Seat When buying a child seat, you need to choose either a conventional child seat, or one designed for use with the lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH) system. Conventional child seats must be secured to a vehicle with a seat belt, whereas LATCH-compatible seats are secured by attaching the seat to hardware built into the rear seats. Since LATCH-compatible child seats are easier to install and reduce the possibility of improper installation, we recommend selecting this style.
Even with advanced front airbags that automatically turn the passenger's front airbag off (see page 32), a back seat is the safest place for a small child. If it is necessary to put a forward- facing child seat in the front, move the vehicle seat as far to the rear as possible, and be sure the child seat is firmly secured to the vehicle and the child is properly strapped in the seat.
Placing a forward-facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury or death if the front airbag inflates.
If you must place a forward- facing child seat in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible, and properly restrain the child.
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2009 Element 3. Thechildseatshouldfitthevehicle
seatingposition(orpositions) whereitwillbeused.
Before purchasing a conventional child seat, or using a previously purchased one, we recommend that you test the seat in the specific vehicle seating position or positions where the seat will be used.
Selecting a Child Seat, Installing a Child Seat
Installing a Child Seat After selecting a proper child seat and a good place to install the seat, there are three main steps in installing the seat: 1. Properlysecurethechildseatto
thevehicle.All child seats must be secured to the vehicle with the lap part of a lap/shoulder belt or with the LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children) system. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the vehicle can be endangered in a crash.
2. Makesurethechildseatisfirmly
secured.After installing a child seat, push and pull the seat forward and from side-to-side to verify that it is secure.
A child seat secured with a seat belt should be installed as firmly as possible. However, it does not need to be ‘‘rock solid.’’ Some side-to-side movement can be expected and should not reduce the child seat's effectiveness. If the child seat is not secure, try installing it in a different seating position, or use a different style of child seat that can be firmly secured. 3. Securethechildinthechildseat.
Make sure the child is properly strapped in the child seat according to the child seat maker's instructions. A child who is not properly secured in a child seat can be seriously injured in a crash.
The following pages provide guidelines on how to properly install a child seat. A forward-facing child seat is used in all examples, but the instructions are the same for rear- facing child seats.
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2009 Element Installing a Child Seat
Installing a Child Seat with LATCH
MARKS
LOWER ANCHORS
Your vehicle is equipped with LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children) at the rear seats. The lower anchors are located between the seat-back and seat bottom, and are to be used only with a child seat designed for use with LATCH. The location of each lower anchor is indicated by a small button above the anchor point.
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ANCHOR COVER
Rigid-type
To install a LATCH-compatible child seat: 1. Remove both anchor covers by
pulling forward.
2. Make sure there are no objects
near the anchors that could prevent a secure connection between the child seat and the anchors.
3. Place the child seat on the vehicle
seat, then attach the seat to the lower anchors according to the child seat maker's instructions. Some LATCH-compatible seats have a rigid-type connector as shown above.
2009 Element Installing a Child Seat
TETHER ANCHOR
Flexible-type
Other LATCH-compatible seats have a flexible-type connector as shown above. 4. Whatever type you have, follow the child seat maker's instructions for adjusting or tightening the fit.
5. Remove the head restraint (see
page 85). Make sure the removed head restraints are secured in the cargo area, and reinstalled when the child seat is removed.
6. Route the tether strap over the top of the seat-back, making sure the strap is not twisted.
ANCHOR COVER
7. Slide the anchor cover open.
CONTINUED 45
2009 Element Installing a Child Seat with a Lap/ Shoulder Belt When not using the LATCH system, all child seats must be secured to the vehicle with the lap part of a lap/ shoulder belt. In addition, the lap/shoulder belts in all seating positions except the driver's have a lockable retractor that must be activated to secure a child seat.
1. With the child seat in the desired
seating position, route the belt through the child seat according to the seat maker's instructions, then insert the latch plate into the buckle.
Installing a Child Seat
TETHER ANCHOR
TETHER STRAP HOOK 8. Attach the tether strap hook to the
tether anchor, then tighten the strap as instructed by the child seat maker. If the tether strap is too long and cannot be tightened firmly, find a route where the strap can be tightened securely.
9. Push and pull the child seat
forward and from side-to-side to verify that it is secure.
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2009 Element Installing a Child Seat
2. To activate the lockable retractor, slowly pull the shoulder part of the belt all the way out until it stops, then let the belt feed back into the retractor.
3. After the belt has retracted, tug on it. If the belt is locked, you will not be able to pull it out. If you can pull the belt out, it is not locked, and you will need to repeat these steps.
4. After confirming that the belt is locked, grab the shoulder part of the belt near the buckle, and pull up to remove any slack from the lap part of the belt. Remember, if the lap part of the belt is not tight, the child seat will not be secure. To remove slack, it may help to put weight on the child seat, or push on the back of the seat while pulling up on the belt.
5. Push and pull the child seat
forward and from side-to-side to verify that it is secure enough to stay upright during normal driving maneuvers. If the child seat is not secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to retract fully, then repeat these steps.
To deactivate the lockable retractor and remove a child seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let the belt fully retract.
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2009 Element Installing a Child Seat
Installing a Child Seat with a Tether
TETHER ANCHORAGE POINTS
A child seat with a tether can be installed in either back seat, using one of the anchor points shown above. Since a tether can provide additional security to the lap/shoulder belt installation, we recommend using a tether whenever one is required or available.
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TETHER ANCHOR
TETHER STRAP HOOK
ANCHOR COVER
1. After securing the child seat in the
desired position (see page 46), remove the head restraint (see page 85), then route the tether strap over the top of the seat-back.
2. Slide the anchor cover open as
shown.
TETHER ANCHOR
3. Attach the tether strap hook to the
anchor, making sure the strap is not twisted.
4. Tighten the strap according to the
seat maker's instructions. Make sure the removed head restraint is secured in the cargo area. Reinstall the head restraint in place when you remove the child seat.
2009 Element Checking Seat Belt Fit
When a child reaches the recommended weight or height limit for a forward-facing child seat, the child should sit in a back seat on a booster seat and wear a lap/shoulder belt. The following pages give instructions on how to check proper seat belt fit, what kind of booster seat to use if one is needed, and important precautions for a child who must sit in front.
Allowing a child age 12 or under to sit in front can result in injury or death if the passenger's front airbag inflates.
If a child must ride in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible, use a booster seat if needed, have the child sit up properly and wear the seat belt properly.
To determine if a lap/shoulder belt properly fits a child, have the child put on the seat belt, then ask yourself: 1. Does the child sit all the way back
against the seat?
2. Do the child's knees bend
comfortably over the edge of the seat?
Protecting Larger Children
3. Does the shoulder belt cross
between the child's neck and arm? 4. Is the lap part of the belt as low as
possible, touching the child's thighs?
5. Will the child be able to stay
seated like this for the whole trip?
If you answer yes to all these questions, the child is ready to wear the lap/shoulder belt correctly. If you answer no to any question, the child needs to ride on a booster seat.
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2009 Element Protecting Larger Children
Using a Booster Seat
A child who has outgrown a forward- facing child seat should ride in a back seat and use a booster seat until the lap/shoulder belt fits them properly without the booster. Some states, Canadian provinces and territories also require children to use a booster seat until they reach a given age or weight (e.g., 6 years or 60 lbs). Be sure to check current laws in the states, provinces or territories where you intend to drive.
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Booster seats can be high-back or low-back. Whichever style you select, make sure the booster meets federal safety standards and that you follow the booster seat maker's instructions. If a child who uses a booster seat must ride in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible and be sure the child is wearing the seat belt properly. A child may continue using a booster seat until the tops of their ears are even with the top of the vehicle's or booster's seat-back. A child of this height should be tall enough to use the lap/shoulder belt without a booster seat.
When Can a Larger Child Sit in Front The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that all children aged 12 and under be properly restrained in a back seat. If the passenger's front airbag inflates in a moderate to severe frontal collision, the airbag can cause serious injuries to a child who is unrestrained, improperly restrained, sitting too close to the airbag, or out of position. A side airbag also poses risks. If any part of a larger child's body is in the path of a deploying side airbag, the child could receive possibly serious injuries.
2009 Element Of course, children vary widely. And while age may be one indicator of when a child can safely ride in front, there are other important factors you should consider. Maturity To safely ride in front, a child must be able to follow the rules, including sitting properly, and wearing the seat belt properly throughout a ride. PhysicalSize Physically, a child must be large enough for the lap/shoulder belt to properly fit (see pages 14 and 49). If the seat belt does not fit properly, with or without the child sitting on a booster seat, the child should not sit in front.
If you decide that a child can safely ride up front, be sure to: ● Carefully read the owner's manual, and make sure you understand all seat belt instructions and all safety information.
● Move the vehicle seat to the rear-
most position.
● Have the child sit up straight, back
against the seat, and feet on or near the floor.
● Check that the child's seat belt is properly and securely positioned. ● Supervise the child. Even mature
children sometimes need to be reminded to fasten the seat belts or sit properly.
Protecting Larger Children
Additional Safety Precautions ● Donotletachildwearaseatbelt acrosstheneck.This could result in serious neck injuries during a crash.
● Donotletachildputtheshoulder partofaseatbeltbehindtheback orunderthearm.This could cause very serious injuries during a crash. It also increases the chance that the child will slide under the belt in a crash and be injured.
● Twochildrenshouldneverusethe
sameseatbelt.If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash.
● Donotputanyaccessoriesona
seatbelt.Devices intended to improve a child's comfort or reposition the shoulder part of a seat belt can make the belt less effective and increase the chance of serious injury in a crash.
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2009 Element Carbon Monoxide Hazard
Your vehicle's exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas. Carbon monoxide should not enter the vehicle in normal driving if you maintain your vehicle properly and follow the information on this page. Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever: ● The vehicle is raised for an oil
change.
● You notice a change in the sound
of the exhaust.
● The vehicle was in an accident that may have damaged the underside.
Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and even kill you.
Avoid any enclosed areas or activities that expose you to carbon monoxide.
High levels of carbon monoxide can collect rapidly in enclosed areas, such as a garage. Do not run the engine with the garage door closed. Even with the door open, run the engine only long enough to move the vehicle out of the garage.
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With the tailgate or hatch open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your vehicle's interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the tailgate or hatch open, open all the windows and set the heating and cooling system as shown below. If you must sit in your parked vehicle with the engine running, even in an unconfined area, adjust the heating and cooling system as follows: 1. Select the fresh air mode. 2. Select the 3. Turn the fan on high speed. 4. Set the temperature control to a
mode.
comfortable setting.
2009 Element These labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury or death. Read these labels carefully. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read (except for the U.S. dashboard label which may be removed by the owner), contact your dealer for a replacement.
DASHBOARD U.S.modelsonly
SUN VISOR U.S.models
Safety Labels
Canadianmodels
U.S.modelsonly
CONTINUED 53
2009 Element Safety Labels
HOOD U.S.models
Canadianmodels
54
DOORJAMBS
U.S.models
Canadianmodels
RADIATOR CAP
2009 Element This section gives information about the controls and displays that contribute to the daily operation of your vehicle. All the essential controls are within easy reach.
Control Locations.......................... 56
Instrument Panel .......................... 57
Instrument Panel Indicators.......... 58
Gauges.......................................... 64
Information Display .................. 65
Odometer.................................. 65
Trip Meter ................................ 66
Fuel Gauge ............................... 66
Check Fuel Cap Message ......... 66
Temperature Gauge.................. 67
Maintenance Minder ................ 67
Outside TemperatureIndicator ............................... 68
Controls Near the Steering
Wheel ....................................... 69
Windshield Wipers and
Washers.................................... 70
Turn Signals and Headlights......... 71
Instrument Panel Brightness ........ 72
Hazard Warning Button ................ 73
Rear Window Defogger................. 74
Steering Wheel Adjustment .......... 74
Keys and Locks............................. 75
Immobilizer System ...................... 76
Remote Transmitter ...................... 77
Ignition Switch.............................. 79
Door Locks ................................... 80
Power Door Locks .................... 80
Rear Doors................................ 81
Hatch ........................................ 81
Tailgate..................................... 82
Seats ............................................. 83
Seat Adjustments ...................... 83
Driver's Seat HeightAdjustment ........................... 84
Front Seat Armrests.................. 85
Head Restraints......................... 85Instruments and Controls
Reclining the Front Seats .......... 87
Folding the Rear Seats .............. 88
Removing the Rear Seats .......... 90
Power Windows ............................ 92
Mirrors ......................................... 93
Adjusting the Power Mirrors..... 93
Rear Windows............................... 94
Parking Brake............................... 94
Interior Lights............................... 95
Light Control Switch ................. 95
Individual Map Lights ............... 95
Courtesy Light .......................... 96
Ceiling Light ............................. 96
Cargo Area Light....................... 96
Ignition Switch Light................. 96
Interior Convenience Items........... 97
Cooler Box................................ 98
Beverage Holders ..................... 99
Accessory Power Sockets ....... 100
Glove Box ............................... 100
Sun Visor ................................ 100
Vanity Mirror.......................... 101
Overhead Console .................. 10155
2009 Element Control Locations
INSTRUMENT PANEL (P. 57) GAUGES (P. 64)
POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH (P. 80)
MIRROR CONTROLS (P. 93)
POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P. 92)
VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST (VSA) OFF SWITCH (P. 231)
HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P. 200)
A/T model with navigation system is shown.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (P. 219) MANUAL TRANSMISSION (P. 217)
ꭧ: If equipped
56
AUDIO SYSTEM (P. 109)
HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS (P. 104)
USB ADAPTER CABLEꭧ (P. 164, 177)
PARKING BRAKE (P. 94)
2009 Element Instrument Panel
DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS INDICATOR (P. 60)
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (P. 58, 296)
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR (P. 61)
CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR (P. 58, 295)
VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST (VSA) INDICATOR (P. 62)
VSA OFF INDICATOR (P. 62)
LOW TIRE PRESSURE INDICATOR (P. 62) ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) INDICATOR (P. 59)
CRUISE MAIN INDICATOR (P. 60)
CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR (P. 60)
PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR (P. 58, 297)
LIGHTS ON INDICATOR (P. 61)
SEAT BELT REMINDER INDICATOR (P. 58)
MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR (P. 59)
DRL
LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR (P. 58, 295)
SIDE AIRBAG OFF INDICATOR (P. 59)
LOW FUEL INDICATOR (P. 61)
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR (P. 59)
TPMS INDICATOR (P. 63)
DOOR AND TAILGATE OPEN INDICATOR (P. 61)
IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR (P. 60)
ꭧ: The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian models are noted in the text.
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2009 Element Instrument Panel Indicators
The instrument panel has many indicators that give you important information about your vehicle.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
For more information, see page 296.
Low Oil Pressure Indicator
The engine can be severely damaged if this indicator flashes or stays on when the engine is running. For more information, see page 295.
Charging System Indicator
If this indicator comes on when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged. For more information, see page 295.
U.S.
Canada Parking Brake
and Brake System Indicator (Red)
This indicator has two functions: 1. It comes on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. It is a reminder to check the parking brake. A beeper sounds if you drive with the parking brake not fully released. Driving with the parking brake not fully released can damage the brakes and tires.
2. If it remains on after you have fully
released the parking brake while the engine is running, or if it comes on while driving, there could be a problem with the brake system. For more information, see page 297.
Seat Belt Reminder Indicator
This indicator comes on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. It reminds you and your passengers to fasten your seat belts. A beeper also sounds if you have not fastened your seat belt. If you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position before fastening your seat belt, the beeper sounds and the indicator flashes. If you do not fasten your seat belt before the beeper stops, the indicator stops flashing but remains on. If your front passenger does not fasten their seat belt, the indicator comes on about 6 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position.
58
2009 Element If either of you do not fasten your seat belt while driving, the beeper will sound and the indicator will flash again at regular intervals. For more information, see page 18.
Supplemental Restraint System Indicator
This indicator comes on briefly when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If it comes on at any other time, it indicates a potential problem with your front airbags. This indicator will also alert you to a potential problem with your side airbags, passenger's side airbag cutoff system, side curtain airbags, automatic seat belt tensioners, driver's seat position sensor, or the front passenger's weight sensors. For more information, see page 31.
U.S.
Canada
Side Airbag Off Indicator
This indicator comes on briefly when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If it comes on at any other time, it indicates that the passenger's side airbag has automatically shut off. For more information, see page 32.
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Indicator
This indicator normally comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and when the ignition switch is turned to the START (III) position. If it comes on at any other time, there is a problem with the ABS. If this happens, have your vehicle checked at a dealer. With this indicator on, your vehicle still has normal braking ability but no anti-lock function. For more information, see page 226.
Instrument Panel Indicators
Maintenance Minder Indicator
This indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. It reminds you that it is time to take your vehicle in for scheduled maintenance. The maintenance main items and sub items will be displayed in the information display. See page 243 for more information on the maintenance minder. This indicator goes off when your dealer resets it after completing the required maintenance service.
CONTINUED 59
2009 Element Instrument Panel Indicators
Immobilizer System Indicator
This indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. It will then go off if you have inserted a properly coded ignition key. If it is not a properly coded key, the indicator will blink, and the engine will not start (see page 76). This indicator also blinks several times when you turn the ignition switch from the ON (II) position to the ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0) position.
Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Indicators
The left or right turn signal indicator blinks when you signal a lane change or turn. If the indicators do not blink or they blink rapidly, it usually means one of the turn signal bulbs is burned out (see page 263). Replace the bulb as soon as possible, since other drivers cannot see that you are signaling. When you press the hazard warning button, both turn signal indicators and all turn signals on the outside of the vehicle flash.
Daytime Running Lights Indicator
If this indicator comes on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position and the parking brake is released, it means there is a problem with a circuit. Have your vehicle checked by your dealer.
Cruise Control Indicator
This indicator comes on when you set the cruise control. See page 193
for information on operating the cruise control.Cruise Main Indicator
This indicator comes on when you turn on the cruise control system by pressing the CRUISE button on the steering wheel (see page 193).
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2009 Element Lights On Indicator
Washer Level Indicator
or
This indicator reminds you that the exterior lights are on. It comes on when the light switch is in either the
position. If you turn the ignition switch to the ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0) position without turning off the light switch, this indicator will stay on. A reminder chime will also sound when you open the driver's door.
High Beam Indicator
This indicator comes on with the high beam headlights. For more information, see page 71.
Canadianmodelsonly This indicator comes on when the washer fluid level is low. Add washer fluid when you see this indicator come on (see page 255). Low Fuel Indicator
LOW FUEL INDICATOR
This indicator comes on as a reminder that you must refuel soon.
Instrument Panel Indicators
When the indicator comes on, there is about 2.8 U.S. gal (10.5 L) of fuel remaining in the tank before the needle reaches E. There is a small reserve of fuel remaining in the tank when the needle does reach E. Door and Tailgate Open Indicator
The appropriate indicator comes on in this display if the hatch, the tailgate, or any door is not closed tightly.
CONTINUED 61
2009 Element Instrument Panel Indicators
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System Indicator
This indicator normally comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position and when the ignition switch is turned to the START (III) position. It flashes when VSA is active (see page 230). If it comes on and stays on at any other time, or it does not come on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, there is a problem with the VSA system. Take your vehicle to a dealer to have it checked. Without VSA, your vehicle still has normal driving ability, but will not have VSA traction and stability enhancement. See page 230
for more information on the VSA system.62
VSA OFF Indicator
It comes on as a reminder that you have turned off the vehicle stability assist (VSA) system. This indicator normally comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position and when the ignition switch is turned to the START (III) position. See page 230 for more information on the VSA system.
Low Tire Pressure Indicator
This indicator normally comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If it comes on while driving, it indicates that one or more of your vehicle's tires are significantly low on pressure.
If this happens, pull to the side of the road when it is safe, check which tire has lost the pressure, and determine the cause. If it is because of a flat tire, replace the flat tire with the compact spare (see page 282), and have the flat tire repaired as soon as possible. If two or more tires are underinflated, call a professional towing service (see page 303). For more information, see page 227.
2009 Element Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Indicator This indicator normally comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If this indicator comes on and stays on at any other time, or if it does not come on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, there is a problem with the TPMS; the system that monitors tire pressure. With this indicator on, the low tire pressure indicator will not come on when a tire loses pressure. Take the vehicle to your dealer to have the system checked.
Instrument Panel Indicators
63
2009 Element Gauges
U.S. model is shown.
ꭧ: If equipped.
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SPEEDOMETER
TACHOMETER
FUEL GAUGE
DRL
INFORMATION DISPLAY
ODOMETER/TRIP METER/ CHECK FUEL CAP MESSAGE
OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE INDICATORꭧ
TEMPERATURE GAUGE
SELECT/RESET KNOB
2009 Element ODOMETER
TRIP METER A
ENGINE OIL LIFE
TRIP METER B
OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE INDICATOR
U.S. model with outside temperature indicator is shown.
Information Display The information display shows the odometer, trip meter, engine oil life, outside temperature (if equipped), and maintenance item code(s).
To switch the display, press and release the select/reset knob repeatedly. When you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, your last selection is displayed.
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Odometer The odometer shows the total distance your vehicle has been driven. It measures miles in U.S. models and kilometers in Canadian models. It is illegal under U.S. federal law and Canadian provincial and territorial regulations to disconnect, reset, or alter the odometer with the intent to change the number of miles or kilometers indicated.
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2009 Element Gauges
Trip Meter This shows the number of miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada) driven since you last reset it. There are two trip meters: Trip A and Trip B. Switch between these displays by pressing the select/reset knob repeatedly. Each trip meter works independently, so you can keep track of two different distances. When you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, the last selection is displayed. To reset a trip meter, display it, and then press and hold the select/reset knob until the number resets to ‘‘0.0’’.
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Fuel Gauge This shows how much fuel you have. It may show slightly more or less than the actual amount. The needle returns to the bottom after you turn off the ignition.
Avoid driving with an extremely low fuel level. Running out of fuel could cause the engine to misfire, damaging the catalytic converter.
Check Fuel Cap Message Your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system will detect a loose or missing fuel fill cap as an evaporative system leak. The first time a leak is detected a ‘‘CHECK FUEL CAP’’ message appears on the information display. Turn the engine off, and confirm the fuel fill cap is installed. If it is, loosen it, then retighten it until it clicks at least once. The message should go off after several days of normal driving once you tighten or replace the fuel fill cap. To scroll to another display, press the select/reset knob. The ‘‘CHECK FUEL CAP’’ message will appear each time you restart the engine until the system turns the message off.
2009 Element Gauges
If the system still detects a leak in your vehicle's evaporative emissions system, the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) comes on. If the fuel fill cap was not already tightened, turn the engine off, and check or retighten the fuel fill cap until it clicks at least once. The MIL should go off after several days of normal driving once the cap is tightened or replaced. If the MIL does not go off, have your vehicle inspected by a dealer. For more information, see page 296.
Temperature Gauge This shows the temperature of the engine's coolant. During normal operation, the pointer should rise to about the middle of the gauge. In severe driving conditions, the pointer may rise to the upper zone. If it reaches the red (hot) mark, pull safely to the side of the road. Turn to page 293 for instructions and precautions on checking the engine's cooling system.
Maintenance Minder The information display in the instrument panel shows you the engine oil life and maintenance service items when the ignition switch is in the ON (II) position. This information helps to keep you aware of the periodic maintenance your vehicle needs for continued trouble- free driving. Refer to page 243 for more information.
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2009 Element In certain weather conditions, temperature readings near freezing (32°F, 0°C) could mean that ice is forming on the road surface. If the outside temperature is incorrectly displayed, you can adjust it up to ꭗ5°F in U.S. models (ꭗ3°C in Canadian models) warmer or cooler. NOTE: The temperature must be stabilized before doing this procedure.
To adjust the outside temperature indicator, make sure the odometer is shown in the display, then press and hold the select/reset knob for 10
seconds. The following sequence will appear for 1 second each: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, －5, －4, －3, －2, －1, 0 (U.S.) or 0, 1, 2, 3, －3, －2, －1, 0 (Canada). When the temperature reaches the desired value, release the select/ reset knob. You should see the new outside temperature displayed.Gauges
Outside Temperature Indicator OnEXandSCmodels This indicator displays the outside temperature in Fahrenheit (U.S. models) or Celsius (Canadian models). The temperature sensor is in the front bumper. The temperature reading can be affected by heat reflection from the road surface, engine heat, and the exhaust from surrounding traffic. This can cause an incorrect temperature reading when your vehicle speed is under 19
mph (30 km/h). When you start your trip, the sensor is not fully acclimatized, therefore it may take several minutes until the proper temperature is displayed.68
2009 Element Controls Near the Steering Wheel
HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS (P. 71)
WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS (P. 70)
NAVIGATION SYSTEM VOICE CONTROL BUTTONSꭧ3
REMOTE AUDIO CONTROLSꭧ2
(P. 191)VSA OFF SWITCH (P. 231)
HORNꭧ1
MANUAL TRANSMISSION (P.217) AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (P.219)
ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET (P.100)
REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON (P. 74)
STEERING WHEEL ADJUSTMENT (P. 74)
HAZARD WARNING BUTTON (P. 73)
A/T model with navigation system is shown.
CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS (P. 193)
ꭧ1: To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel. ꭧ2: If equipped ꭧ3: Only on vehicles equipped with navigation system. Refer to the navigation system manual.
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2009 Element Windshield Wipers and Washers
Windshield Wiper
(cid:19)
(cid:20) (cid:21)
(cid:22)
(cid:23)
(cid:24)
ADJUSTMENT RING
1. MIST 2. OFF 3. INT － Intermittent 3. LO － Low speed 5. HI － High speed 6. Windshield washers
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Push the right lever up or down to select a position. MIST － The wipers run at high speed until you release the lever. OFF － The wipers are not activated. INT － The length of the wipe interval is varied automatically according to vehicle's speed. Vary the delay by turning the adjustment ring. If you turn it to the shortest delay ( wipers change to low speed operation when the vehicle speed exceeds 12 mph (20 km/h). LO － The wipers run at low speed. HI － The wipers run at high speed. Windshield Washer － Pull the wiper control lever toward you, and hold it. The washers spray until you release the lever. The wipers run at low speed, then complete one more sweep after you release the lever.
position), the
Rear Window Wiper and Washer
(cid:20)
(cid:19)
(cid:21)
(cid:22)
1. Rotate the switch clockwise to turn
the rear window wiper ON.
2. Hold past ON to turn the window wiper on and the window washer on.
3. OFF 4. Rotate the switch
counterclockwise and hold to spray the window washer and operate the wiper.
2009 Element Turn Signal － Push down on the lever to signal a left turn and up to signal a right turn. To signal a lane change, push lightly on the lever, and hold it. The lever will return to center when you release it or complete a turn.
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(cid:22)
(cid:21)
(cid:20)
(cid:24)
(cid:19)
(cid:19)
1. Turn signal 2. Off 3. Parking and instrument panel lights 4. Headlights on 5. High beams 6. Flash high beams
Turn Signals and Headlights
’’ position turns on the
Headlights － Turning the switch to the ‘‘ parking lights, taillights, instrument panel lights, side-marker lights, and rear license plate lights. Turning the switch to the ‘‘ ’’ position turns on the headlights. When the light switch is in the ‘‘ on indicator comes on as a reminder. This indicator stays on if you leave the light switch on and turn the ignition switch to the ACCESSORY (I) or the LOCK (0) position. If you leave the lights on with the key removed from the ignition switch, you will hear a reminder chime when you open the driver's door.
’’ position, the lights
’’ or ‘‘
CONTINUED 71
2009 Element Turn Signals and Headlights, Instrument Panel Brightness
High Beams － Push the lever back until you hear a click to turn on the high beams. The blue high beam indicator will come on (see page 61). Pull the lever back again to low beams. To flash the high beams, pull the lever back lightly, then release it. The high beams will stay on as long as you hold the lever back.
Daytime Running Lights With the headlight switch off, the daytime running lights come on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position and release the parking brake. They remain on until you turn the ignition switch off, even if you set the parking brake. When the headlights are on, the daytime running lights are off.
Instrument Panel Brightness
The select/reset knob on the instrument panel controls the brightness of the instrument panel lights. Turn the knob to adjust the brightness. Separate adjustments can be made when the headlights are on and off.
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2009 Element BRIGHTNESS LEVEL
U.S. model is shown.
The level of brightness is shown on the information display while you adjust it. It goes out about 5 seconds after you finish adjusting. To reduce glare at night, the instrument panel illumination dims when you turn the light switch to
or
. Turning the select/reset
knob to the right until you hear a beep will cancel the reduced brightness.
Instrument Panel Brightness, Hazard Warning Button
The instrument panel will illuminate with reduced brightness when you unlock and open the driver's door. The brightness will increase slightly when you insert the key in the ignition switch, then go to normal brightness when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If you do not insert the key in the ignition switch after opening the driver's door, the illumination turns off about 30 seconds after you close the door. If you insert the key but do not turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, the illumination turns off in about 10 seconds.
Hazard Warning Button
Push the button next to the shift lever to turn on the hazard warning lights (four-way flashers). This causes all four outside turn signals and both turn indicators in the instrument panel to flash. Use the hazard warning lights if you need to park in a dangerous area near heavy traffic, or if your vehicle is disabled.
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2009 Element Rear Window Defogger, Steering Wheel Adjustment
Rear Window Defogger
Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive. The defogger wires on the inside of the rear window can be accidentally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side-to-side.
The rear window defogger will clear fog, frost, and thin ice from the window. Push the defogger button to turn it on and off. The indicator in the button comes on to show the defogger is on. If you do not turn it off, the defogger will shut itself off after about 15 minutes. It also shuts off when you turn off the ignition switch. You have to turn the defogger on again when you restart the vehicle.
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Steering Wheel Adjustment Make any steering wheel adjustment before you start driving.
Adjusting the steering wheel position while driving may cause you to lose control of the vehicle and be seriously injured in a crash.
Adjust the steering wheel only when the vehicle is stopped.
2009 Element Steering Wheel Adjustment, Keys and Locks
3. Push the lever up to lock the
steering wheel in that position. 4. Make sure you have securely
locked the steering wheel in place by trying to move it up and down.
Keys and Locks
KEY NUMBER TAG
MASTER KEYS (BLACK)
VALET KEY (LIGHT GRAY)
The master key fits all the locks on your vehicle. The valet key works only in the ignition and the door locks. You can keep the glove box and hatch locked when you leave your vehicle and the valet key at a parking facility.
