My 2005 Honda Element had some clear coat issues and some small rust spots on the tailgate. In this video I show how I repaired these with tools most DIYers have. I also show how I ‘blacked out’ my emblems without damaging the vehicle finish.
I’m not a paint or body repair technician, I’m a mechanic, I’m sure I could have done better, but I’m very happy with the results of my efforts, especially the blacked out emblems. No matter what, I hope you find the information useful.
In addition to the clear coat repair, I also try and realign the hatch as well as upgrade my tail lights to LEDs.
Thanks for watching!
#ETCGVideo #ETCGWatson #HondaElement
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Parts/Tools (some are affiliate links)
Honda Emblem: 75701-SCV-A01
Element Emblem: 75722-SCV-A10
Paintscratch.com:
Eastwood Chassis Black:
Duplicolor Prep Spray:
Zep Vandel Mark Remover:
Eraser Wheel:
Wizzy Wheel:
Plastic Razor Blades:
Scotchbright Pads:
2 Sided Tape:
Tail Light LEDs:
Flashing 3rd Brake Light LED:
Reverse Light LEDs:
Related Videos
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Body Shop Repairs:
Easy Rust Repair the (Hack) Way:
What Happens To Bondo Body Work After a Couple of Years:
How To Find Water Leaks in Your Vehicle:
Honda Element Playlist:
Fixing it Forward Playlist:
Type R Playlist:
Dads Truck Series:
The Fairmont Project:
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Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy®.
Likes: 1049
Views: 11281
I'm an appraiser for an insurance company. We always pay to remove emblems for panel refinishing along with handles, belt mouldings, etc.
Whenever i put my emblems back, i just measure with a pair of calipers to find the corners of the emblem from two pieces of tape with dots that i place outside the work area. So like on the lights, or the window.
Works really nice and cannot fail nor does it get in my way. If you leave the tape large enough, you can write on the tape the two top corner measurements. Generally, i just write one, and leave the calipers set on the other.
Thanks for another great video, ETCG!
ERIC u r handsome but please shave that beard!
Give yourself the choice of both looks by using PlastiDip which also means you do not have to purchase new ones.
For that orange peel, keeping your rattle can warm may have helped. Also, a minor compound and polish would probably knock that down enough that it’s not noticeable.
TRY GOO-GONE TO REMOVE ADHESIVE.
You had to paint whole back element. On camera it is spotty look
Late model cars DO NOT flash the third brake lights. It’s a dealership margin booster, like pin-striping, done to vehicles on the lot prior to sale and pushed to customers on the grounds of “safety”. The blinking light is actually more distracting to other drivers, leading to unnecessary panic stops, and is actually borderline illegal in many states.
Stick to the mechanics Eric. Bodywork isn't for everyone.