So, Herman has been a terrific little car over the last year. 
The complete opposite experience from my nightmares with Boris the Landrover.
These Honda Elements are great little mini-SUV's that are economical, cheap to run, roomy inside and generally just good fun!
He's driven from South Carolina to Texas (twice), raced up and down the interstate between Charleston SC and Roanoke VA every two weeks for the last six months. In february we loaded up with stuff and drove to California. Never missed a beat. Started every time. Cruised at highway speeds merrily. Never been washed during my 14k miles of ownership. Only problems have been: one new tire (from nail on the road) and one headlamp bulb replacement. Bloody good job Honda!
Then I come out from work and the exhaust (or muffler as my American chums call it) seems to have died a terminal death.
So, its time for a little service at Pep Boys in San Clemente - Oil change, drive belt, alternator belt, filters, brake pads for $200. Huzzah!