May well be a defective element but any attempt to repair it will be futile - they are not designed and made to be repairable - it's a safety thing which also keeps sales volumes up - manufacturers do not want them repaired they want to sell you a new one - the safety authorities don't want people electrocuting themselves.
howtomendit.com for free repair help, information and advice.
Try fixfault.com to fix steam irons.