honda 2004 element bouncy

Yes, you must have bad struts, and tires probably are in bad shape, could have broken belt in a tire. New struts, and 2 new tires will smooth-en things out.

does it have the air leveling ride (rum runners) in the back ?

what kind of bouncing ? up and down for a 100's of feet down the road or a stiff ride ? jump on the back and see what it does , new struts can't hurt as long as your tires are good , bad struts can ruin the tire , let us know what happens .

I am taking it in to local Precision tune for a diagnostic tomorrow. Tire belt issue sounds logical. original struts at 115,000 probably need replacing anyway?! Thanks guys WTF r rum runners? LOL . There is no bouncing on smooth pavement, only potholes and road abnoralities.

Sounds like the struts, bouncing threw pot holes & rum runner are air bags for air leveling suspension.

drumroll...The bushing/bracket on right rear sway bar was completely broke. Saw it with my own eyes at the shop. Must have happened after links were replaced? new tension? they replaced both bushings for 348.00, $115 each one and labor. Ride was waaaaaaaaaay better. Still bouncy/bumpy and yes struts are a future investment, they recommend, but all is good for now, knock on wood