1995 Prelude Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.

Contents

Owner's Identification Form Introduction ...... i A Few Words About Safety...... ii Driver and Passenger Safety ...... 3 Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls...... 29 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features ...... 71 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving...... 97 What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving ...... 107 The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance...... 127 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care...... 181 Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected...... 189 This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information...... 211 ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)...... 225 A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...... 231 How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...... I Gas Station Information A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

Main Menu ▲ ▼ Introduction

Congratulations ! Your selection of a 1995 Honda Prelude was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.

To enhance the enjoyment of your new car, take time to study this manual. In it, you will learn about your car's many conveniences and useful features. Following the service interval and maintenance recommendations will help keep your driving trouble-free while preserving your investment.

Keep this owner's manual in your car so you can refer to it at any time. Please make sure the manual stays with the car if you sell it. The next owner will find it just as helpful.

Several warranties protect your Honda. We suggest you read the warranty booklets carefully to fully understand the coverages and the responsibilities of ownership.

When your car needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's service staff is specially-trained in the service and maintenance of the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns. Main Menu ▲ ▼ Safety Messages

Your safety and the safety of others is very important. We have provided You will also see another important many important safety messages in this manual and on the vehicle. Please symbol: read these messages carefully. NOTICE A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol and Your Honda or other property can be one of three words, DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. damaged if you don't follow instruc- These mean: tions.

You WILL be KILLED or The purpose of these messages is to SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't help prevent damage to your car, follow instructions. other property, or the environment.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions.

Each safety message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen and what you can do to avoid or reduce injury. Main Menu ▲ ▼ Driver and Passenger Safety

This section gives you important Your Occupant Protection System.. 4 Storing Cargo Safely...... 17 information about occupant protec- The Seat Belt System Driving with Pets...... 17 tion. It shows how to use seat belts and How It Works...... 5 Child Safety...... 18 properly. It explains the Supple- Why Wear Seat Belts...... 5 Where Should Children Sit?...... 18 mental Restraint System. And it Important Safety Reminders...... 5 Important Safety Reminders...... 19 gives useful information about how Seat Belt System Components..... 6 General Guidelines to protect an infants or a child in Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 6 for Restraining Children your car. Wearing Seat Belts Properly...... 6 Under 18 kg (40 Ibs)...... 19 Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7 Restraining Advice for Pregnant Women...... 8 an Infant Who Weighs Seat Belt Maintenance...... 8 Less Than 9 kg (20 Ibs)...... 19 Supplemental Restraint System...... 9 Restraining What Happens In a Crash...... 10 a Child Who Weighs Between Important Facts About 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs)..... 20 Airbags...... 11 Restraining a Child Who Weighs How the Driver's Airbag Over 18 kg (40 Ibs)...... 21 Works...... 12 Using a Seat Belt How the Passenger's Airbag Locking Clip...... 21 Works...... 13 Using Child Restraints How the SRS Indicator Light with Tethers...... 22 Works...... 14 Storing a Child Seat...... 23 System Service...... 14 Alcohol and Drugs...... 24 System Service Precautions...... 15 Carbon Monoxide Hazard...... 25 Additional Safety Information...... 16 Reporting Safety Defects Seat-back Position...... 16 (U.S. Cars)...... 26 Door Locks...... 16 Safety Labels...... 27

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Your Occupant Protection System

Your Honda is equipped with seat Two indicator lights are also part of To get the maximum protection from belts and other features that work your safety system. One reminds you your occupant protection system, together to protect you and your to make sure you and your passen- check the following before you drive passengers during a crash. gers wear seat belts. The other away: alerts you to a possible problem with Seat belts are the most important your supplemental restraint system Everyone in the car is wearing a part of your occupant protection (see page 14). seat belt properly (see page 6). system. When worn properly, seat Infants and small children are belts can reduce the chance of The seats, head restraints, and door properly secured in child safety serious injury or death in a crash. locks also play a role in occupant seats (see page 18). safety. For example, reclining the Both doors are closed and locked For added protection during a severe seat-back can decrease the effec- (see page 16). frontal collision, your Prelude has a tiveness of your seat belt. Head Seat-backs are upright (see page Supplemental Restraint System restraints can help protect your neck 16). (SRS) with a driver's airbag and a and head, especially during rear-end There are no loose items that front passenger's airbag. impacts. Door locks help keep your could be thrown around and hurt doors from being accidentally someone during a crash or sudden opened during a crash. stop (see page 17).

By following these guidelines, you can reduce injuries to yourself and your passengers in many crash situations. Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Why Wear Seat Belts Two people should never use the Wearing seat belts, and wearing same seat belt. If they do, they could them properly, is fundamental to Not wearing a seat belt be very seriously injured in a crash. your safety and the safety of your increases the chance of being passengers. killed or seriously hurt in a Do not place the shoulder portion of crash. a lap/shoulder belt under your arm During a crash or emergency stop, or behind your back. This could seat belts can help keep you from Be sure you and your increase the chance of serious being thrown against the inside of passengers always wear seat injuries in a crash. the car, against other occupants, or belts and wear them properly. out of the car. Do not put shoulder belt pads or other accessories on seat belts. They Of course, seat belts cannot com- Important Safety Reminders can reduce the effectiveness of the pletely protect you in every crash. Seat belts are designed for adults belts and increase the chance of But, in most cases, seat belts reduce and larger children. All infants and injury. your chance of serious injury. They small children must be properly can even save your life. That is why restrained in child safety seats (see many states and all Canadian pro- page 18). vinces require you to wear seat belts. A pregnant woman needs to wear a seat belt to protect herself and her unborn child (see page 8).

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt Wearing Seat Belts Properly Your Honda has lap/shoulder seat You can increase the effectiveness of belts in all four seating positions. SHOULDER UPPER SEAT your seat belts if you take a little PORTION BELT ANCHOR time to read the following pages and Your seat belt system also includes a make sure you know how to wear light on the instrument panel to LATCH seat belts properly. remind you to fasten your seat belt, PLATE and to make sure your passengers fasten theirs. This light comes on when you turn on the ignition if you Not wearing a seat belt properly have not fastened your seat belt. A increases the chance of serious beeper also sounds for several injury or death in a crash. LAP seconds (see page 33). BUCKLE PORTION Be sure you and your The following pages cover more This style of seat belt has a single passengers always wear seat about the seat belt components and belt that goes over your shoulder, belts and wear them properly. how they work. across your chest, and across your hips. Each lap/shoulder belt has an emergency locking retractor. In normal driving, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat while it keeps some tension on the belt. During a collision or sudden stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt

Before putting on the seat belt, move latch is securely locked. 4. Pull up on the shoulder part of the the driver's seat as far back as is belt to remove any slack. Make practical while still allowing you to 2. Check that the belt is not twisted. sure the belt goes over your maintain full control of the vehicle. collarbone and across your chest. Make sure the seat-back is upright 3. Position the lap portion of the belt (see page 54). The front seat as low as possible across your hips, passenger should move the seat as not across your stomach. This lets far back as possible. your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash. 1. Pull the latch plate across your body and insert it into the buckle. Tug on the belt to make sure the CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Advice for Pregnant Women drive and how you should position a lap/shoulder seat belt.

Seat Belt Maintenance For safety, you should check the condition of your seat belts regularly.

Pull out each belt fully and look for frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check that the latches work smoothly and the lap/shoulder belts retract easily. Any belt not in good condition or not working properly should be replaced.

To unlatch the seat belt, push the Protecting the mother is the best If a seat belt is worn during a crash, red PRESS button on the buckle. way to protect her unborn child. have your dealer replace the belt and Guide the belt across your body to Therefore, a pregnant woman should inspect the anchors for damage. the door pillar. If the belt doesn't wear a properly-positioned seat belt retract easily, pull it out and check whenever she drives or rides in a car. For information on how to clean your for twists or kinks. seat belts, see page 185. When using the seat belt, remember to keep the lap portion as low as possible (see page 7).

Each time you have a check-up, ask your doctor if it's okay for you to

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Supplemental Restraint System

Your car is equipped with a INDICATOR PASSENGER'S Supplemental Restraint System AIRBAG (SRS) to help protect the head and Not wearing a seat belt chest of the driver and front seat increases the chance of serious passenger during a severe frontal injury or death in a crash, even collision. if you have an airbag.

This system does not replace your seat Be sure you and your belts. It supplements, or adds to, the passengers always wear seat protection offered by seat belts and belts and wear them properly. other occupant protection features. DRIVER'S AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT/SENSORS The main components in your SRS are:

One airbag in the steering wheel for the driver and another in the dashboard for the passenger.

Sensors that can detect a severe frontal collision.

CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Supplemental Restraint System

A sophisticated electronic system What Happens In a Crash After the crash, you may see what that continually monitors the If you ever have a severe frontal looks like smoke. This is actually control unit (including the collision, the sensors will detect powder from the airbag's surface. sensors), airbag activators, and all rapid deceleration and signal the People with respiratory problems related wiring when the ignition is control unit to instantly inflate the may experience some temporary ON (II). airbags. discomfort from the chemicals used by the airbag's activators. An indicator light on the During a crash, your seat belts will instrument panel to alert you to a help to restrain your lower body and possible problem with the system. torso. The airbags will provide a cushion to absorb crash energy and Emergency backup power in case help keep the head and chest of the your car's electrical system is driver and front passenger from disconnected in a crash. striking the interior of the car.

After inflating, the airbags will immediately deflate. The entire process, from detection to deflation, takes a fraction of a second. This process occurs so quickly that you may not hear the loud noise created by the airbag inflators, or realize what has happened.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Supplemental Restraint System

Important Facts About Airbags Just from viewing the vehicle Airbags inflate only when needed; in Frontal collision range damage after a crash, it is very a severe frontal collision. A severe difficult to accurately determine if collision would be similar to a crash the airbags should or should not into a parked car at 25 mph (40 have inflated. In some cases where km/h). Airbags will not inflate in a the airbag did not inflate, extensive moderate frontal collision, or during visible damage indicated that the car a rear impact, side impact, or rollover absorbed much of the crash energy, — even if the impact is severe. and the airbags were not needed. In other cases, a severe jolt, such as an impact to the undercarriage, may not cause extensive body damage but cause the airbags to inflate. Airbags inflate and deflate only once. They cannot protect you during any additional impacts that can occur during a crash sequence.

Injuries, including fatal injuries, can occur in a severe collision, even if seat belts are worn properly and the airbags inflate. No safety system can provide complete protection in a severe crash.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Supplemental Restraint System

How the Driver's Airbag Works To do its job, the airbag inflates with considerable force. So, while it can reduce serious injuries and even save your life, the airbag might cause some facial abrasions or other injuries. To reduce the possibility of injury, you should always sit back as far from the steering wheel as is practical while still maintaining full vehicle control.

If you ever have a severe frontal After the bag completely inflates, it collision, your airbag will instantly immediately starts deflating so it inflate to help protect your head and won't interfere with your visibility, chest. ability to steer, or ability to operate other controls. The total time for inflation and deflation takes a fraction of a second. You may not even be aware that the airbag has been fully inflated.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Supplemental Restraint System

The driver's airbag is stored in the How the Passenger's Airbag This airbag is quite large and inflates center of the steering wheel. For Works with considerable force. It can your safety, do not attach any items seriously hurt a front seat passenger to the steering wheel. They could who is not in the proper position and interfere with the proper operation wearing the seat belt properly. Front of the airbag. Or, if the airbag seat passengers should move the inflates, they could be propelled seat as far back as practical and sit inside the car and hurt someone. well back in the seat.

We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough If you ever have a severe frontal force to cause very serious injury to collision, the passenger's airbag will the infant. inflate at the same time as the driver's airbag. If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained. CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Supplemental Restraint System

The passenger's airbag is stored S R S How the SRS Indicator System Service near the top of the dashboard, under Light Works Your supplemental restraint system a lid marked SRS. Do not place any The purpose of the SRS light on your is virtually maintenance-free. There objects on top of this lid. If the airbag instrument panel is to alert you of a are no parts you can safely service. inflates, those objects can be potential problem with your supple- You must have the system serviced propelled inside the car and possibly mental restraint system. by an authorized Honda dealer: hurt someone. Have the system checked if: If your airbags ever inflate, the airbags and control unit must be The light does not come on when replaced. Do not try to remove or you turn the ignition ON (II). discard the airbags by yourself. This must be done by a Honda The light stays on after the engine dealer. starts. If the SRS indicator light alerts The light comes on or flashes you of a problem. Have the while you are driving. supplemental restraint system checked as soon as possible. Otherwise, your airbags might not inflate when you need them.

When the car is ten years old. Have the dealer inspect the system. The production date is on the driver's doorjamb for your convenience.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Supplemental Restraint System

System Service Precautions Scrapping an entire car that has Do not modify your steering wheel uninflated airbags can be dangerous. or any other part of the supplemental Get assistance from a Honda dealer restraint system. Modifications could if your car must be scrapped. make the system ineffective. If you sell your car, please be sure to Do not tamper with the system's tell the new owner that the car has a components or wiring. This could supplemental restraint system. Alert cause the airbags to inflate inadver- them to the information and precau- tently, possibly injuring someone tions in this part of the owner's very seriously. manual.

Tell anyone who works on your car that you have a supplemental restraint system. Failure to follow the procedures and precautions in the official Honda service manual could result in personal injury or damage to the system.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Additional Safety Information

The seat belts and airbags are obvi- Seat-back Position Door Locks ously important parts of your occu- The seat-backs should be in an It is not safe to leave your car doors pant protection system. upright position for you and your unlocked. A passenger, especially a passengers to get the most protec- child, could open a door and acci- In addition, you should know that tion from the seat belts. dentally fall out. Also, there is a sitting upright, locking the doors, greater chance of being thrown out and stowing things properly can also If you recline a seat-back, you reduce of the car during a crash when the increase your safety and possibly the protective capability of your seat doors are not locked. even save your life. belt. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk that you will slide under the belt in a severe crash and be very seriously injured.

For information on how to adjust the seat-back, see page 54.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Additional Safety Information

Storing Cargo Safely Driving with Pets A small dog, cat, or other small Before you drive, make sure you Loose pets can be a hazard while you animal will be safest in a pet carrier first securely store or tie down any are driving. An unrestrained pet can with rigid sides. Choose a style that items that could be thrown around interfere with your ability to drive allows you to secure it to the car's the car and hurt someone, or the car. In a crash or sudden stop, seat by routing a seat belt through interfere with your ability to operate loose pets or cages can be thrown the carrier's handle. the controls. around inside the car and hurt you or your passengers. It is also for their For further information, contact your Do not put any items on top of the safety that pets should be properly veterinarian or local animal protec- rear shelf. They can block your view restrained in your car. tion society. and they could be thrown about the car in a crash. The recommended way to restrain a medium-sized or larger dog is with a Be sure to keep compartment doors special traveling harness. This har- closed when the car is moving. If a ness can be secured to the rear seat front passenger hits the door of an with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are open glove box, for example, he available at pet stores. could injure his knees.

For information on loading cargo, see page 106.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Child Safety

We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front An infant or child who is not passenger's seat. If the airbag properly restrained can be killed inflates, it can hit the infant seat with or seriously injured in a crash. great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough Be sure any child too small for force to cause very serious injury to seat belts is properly secured in the infant. a child restraint. If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat Where Should Children Sit? should be moved as far back as According to accident statistics, possible. If the passenger's bag Children depend on adults to protect children of all sizes and ages are inflates, it could seriously hurt a them. To help make sure we do, safer when they are properly toddler who is not in the proper every state and Canadian province restrained in the rear seat rather position or properly restrained. has laws requiring infants and young than the front seat. children to be properly restrained We also recommend that any child whenever they ride in a car. We recommend that, whenever who is too large to use an infant or possible, you secure your child's toddler seat ride in the rear seat. The infant or toddler seat in the rear seat child should then wear the lap/ with the lap/shoulder belt. You must shoulder belt properly for protection. use a locking clip with a lap/shoulder belt.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Child Safety

Important Safety Reminders General Guidelines for To properly route a seat belt through Never hold a baby or child on your Restraining Children Under 18 a child seat, follow the seat maker's lap when riding in a car. If you are kg (40 Ibs) instructions. You must use a locking wearing your seat belt, the violent Use an approved child seat. The seat clip with a lap/shoulder belt (see forces created during a crash will must meet Federal Motor Vehicle page 21). tear the child from your arms. The Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS-213) or child could be seriously hurt or killed. Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Secure the child in the child seat. Make Standards. Look for the manufac- sure the infant or child is firmly If you are holding a child and not turer's statement of compliance on secured to the child seat. Use the wearing a seat belt in a crash, you the box and seat. straps provided, and carefully follow could crush the child against the car's the manufacturer's instructions. interior. Use a seat of the right size. Make sure the seat fits your child. Check the Restraining an Infant Who Never put your seat belt over seat manufacturer's instructions and Weighs Less Than 9 kg yourself and a child. During a crash, labels for height and weight limits. (20 Ibs) the belt could press deep into the An infant up to about 9 kg (20 Ibs) child, causing serious internal Secure the child seat to the car. All must be restrained in an infant seat injuries. approved child seats are designed to or a convertible seat designed for a be secured to the car seat by the lap baby. Because infants must ride in a Two children should never use the belt portion of a lap/shoulder belt. A reclining position, be sure the infant same seat belt. If they do, they could child whose seat is not properly seat always faces the REAR of the be very seriously injured in a crash. secured to the car can be car as shown. endangered in a crash. For their safety, do not leave children alone in your car without adult supervision. CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Child Safety

We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs) Toddler seats are designed for We recommend that, whenever children who weigh between 9 and If you are using a toddler seat in the possible, you put the infant seat in 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs). front passenger's seat, move the the rear seat and secure it to the car The preferred place to put a toddler passenger's seat as far back as with a lap/shoulder belt. You must seat is in the rear seat. Use the car's possible before installing the child use a locking clip with a lap/shoulder lap/shoulder belt to secure the seat seat. If the passenger's bag inflates, belt (see page 21). to the car. You must use a locking it could seriously hurt a toddler who clip with the car's lap/shoulder belt is not in the proper position or (see page 21). properly restrained.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Child Safety

Restraining a Child Who Weighs Put the seat belt on your child and Using a Seat Belt Locking Clip Over 18 kg (40 Ibs) check its fit. The shoulder belt Always use a seat belt locking clip should fit over the collarbone and when you secure a child seat to your across the chest. The lap belt should car with a lap/shoulder belt. This sit low on your child's hips, not helps prevent the seat from shifting across the stomach. position or overturn ing.

If the shoulder belt crosses the neck, A locking clip is usually included you should use a booster seat. with the child seat. If you need a clip, contact the seat's manufacturer or a Several styles of booster seats are store that sells child restraints. available. We recommend a design that allows the child to use the car's lap/shoulder belt.

We recommend that, whenever Whichever style you select, follow possible, a child who has outgrown a the booster seat manufacturer's toddler seat ride in the rear seat and instructions. use a lap/shoulder belt.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Child Safety

To install a locking clip, do the Using Child Restraints with following: Tethers

1. Place the child restraint in the 150 mm (5.9 in) desired position. Route the lap/ shoulder belt through the restraint according to the seat manufac- turer's instructions.

2. Insert the latch plate into the buckle. Pull on the shoulder part of the belt to make sure there is no slack in the lap portion. 4. Install the locking clip as shown. 230 mm (9.1 in) 3. Tightly grasp the belt near the Position the clip as close as latch plate. Pinch both parts of the possible to the latch plate. Your Honda has two attachment belt together so they won't slip points for tether-style child seats. through the latch plate. Unbuckle 5. Insert the latch plate into the Use the dimensions in the above the seat belt. buckle. Push and pull on the child illustration to locate the attachment seat to verify that it is held firmly point you want to use. Cut a 12.7 mm in place. If it is not, repeat these (1/2 inch) diameter hole in the rear steps until the restraint is secure. shelf.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Child Safety

Then install the tether hardware that Canadian Cars Storing a Child Seat came with the child seat. When you are not using an infant Tighten the bolt to: seat or other child restraint, either . 22 N m (2.2 kg-m, 16 Ib-ft) TOOTHED WASHER remove it or make sure it is properly secured so it cannot be thrown If you are not sure how to install the around the car during a crash. bracket, have it installed by your Honda dealer.

If you need an anchor plate and mounting hardware, you can obtain them by writing to:

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Consumer Affairs The anchor plate and mounting 1919 Torrance Blvd. hardware for a top tether are Torrance, CA 90501-2746 supplied with the car. When installing, make sure the toothed washer is on the bottom of the bolt.

The supplied anchor plate is designed only for mounting a child restraint. Do not use it for any other purpose.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Alcohol and Drugs

Driving a car requires your full at- The safest thing you can do is never If you have no choice but to drive, tention and alertness. Traffic condi- drink and drive. This can be done if stop drinking and give yourself lots tions change rapidly. You must be you plan ahead. If you know you are of time to sober up. Time is the only able to react just as rapidly. Alcohol going to be drinking, make plans to thing that can make you sober. or drugs directly affect your alert- ride with a friend who will not be Things like coffee or a cold shower ness and ability to react. Even pre- drinking. don't speed up the process. scription and non-prescription medi- cines can have this effect. What if you find that you've been If you see friends trying to get drinking and cannot get a ride from a behind the wheel after drinking, stop There are laws that deal with friend? Find alternative transpor- them. Drive them yourself or drunken driving. These laws define tation. Call a taxi. Take a bus. Many arrange other transportation. If you how much alcohol it takes in your communities have transportation think you are interfering, remember system to be legally "drunk." How- services devoted to shuttling people that your interference will keep them ever, your judgment and reaction who have been drinking. from sharing the road with you. time get worse with every drink— even the first one.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Your car's exhaust contains carbon High levels of carbon monoxide can If you must sit in your parked car, monoxide gas. You should have no collect rapidly in enclosed areas, even in an unconfined area, with the problem with carbon monoxide such as a garage. Do not run the engine running, adjust the heating entering the car in normal driving if engine with the garage door closed. and cooling system as follows: you maintain your car properly. Even with the door open, run the Have the exhaust system inspected engine only long enough to move the 1. Select the Fresh Air mode. for leaks whenever: car out of the garage. 2. Select the mode. 3. Turn the fan on high speed. The car is raised for an oil change. With the trunk lid open, air flow can 4. Set the temperature control to a You notice a change in the sound pull exhaust gas into your car's comfortable setting. of the exhaust. interior and create a hazardous The car was in an accident that condition. If you must drive with the may have damaged the underside. trunk lid open, open all the windows and set the heating and cooling system as follows.

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and can even kill you.

Avoid any enclosed areas or activities that expose you to carbon monoxide.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Cars)

If you believe that your vehicle has a If NHTSA receives similar com- To contact NHTSA, you may either defect which could cause a crash or plaints, it may open an investigation, call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free could cause injury or death, you and if it finds that a safety defect at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in should immediately inform the exists in a group of vehicles, it may Washington D.C. area) or write to: National Highway Traffic Safety order a recall and remedy campaign. NHTSA, U.S. Department of Administration (NHTSA) in addition However, NHTSA cannot become Transportation, Washington, to notifying American Honda Motor involved in individual problems D.C. 20590. You can also obtain Co., Inc. between you, your dealer, or other information about motor American Honda Motor Co., Inc. vehicle safety from the Hotline.

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Safety Labels

These labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully and don't remove them.

If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer RADIATOR CAP for a replacement.

BATTERY

Driver and Passenger Safety Main Menu ▲ ▼ Instruments and Controls

This section gives information about Control Locations...... 30 Trunk...... 52 the controls and displays that Indicator Lights...... 31 Seat Adjustments...... 53 contribute to the daily operation of Gauges...... 38 Rear Seat Access...... 54 your Honda. All the essential Speedometer...... 38 Additional Driver's Seat controls are within easy reach. Tachometer...... 38 Adjustments...... 55 Odometer...... 39 Seat Heaters...... 56 Trip Meter...... 39 Folding Rear Seat...... 57 Fuel Gauge...... 40 Hazard Warning...... 58 Temperature Gauge...... 40 Rear Window Defogger...... 58 Controls Near the Steering Power Windows...... 59 Wheel...... 41 Sunroof...... 60 Headlights...... 42 Mirrors...... 61 Daytime Running Lights...... 42 Adjusting the Power Mirrors..... 62 Instrument Panel Brightness..... 43 Parking Brake...... 63 Turn Signals...... 43 Glove Box...... 64 Windshield Wipers...... 44 Digital Clock...... 64 Windshield Washers...... 44 Vanity Mirror...... 65 Steering Wheel Adjustment...... 45 Cigarette Lighter...... 65 Steering Wheel Controls...... 46 Ashtrays...... 66 Cruise Control...... 46 Beverage Holder...... 67 Horn...... 49 Console Compartment...... 68 Keys and Locks...... 49 Interior Lights...... 68 Keys...... 49 Ignition Switch Light...... 69 Ignition Switch...... 50 Door Locks...... 51 Power Door Locks...... 51

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Control Locations

DOOR LOCK POWER WINDOW DIGITAL CLOCK HEATING/ SWITCH SWITCH (P.64) COOLING (P.51) (P.59) CONTROL (P.72)

AUDIO SYSTEM (P.79)

FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE (P. 100)

TRUNK RELEASE HOOD RELEASE MIRROR HANDLE HANDLE CONTROLS (P.52) (P.101) (P.62)

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Indicator Lights

The instrument panel has many (S) indicators to give you important SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT HIGH BEAM INDICATOR information about your car. SYSTEM INDICATOR

Lamp Check Many of the indicator lights come on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II), allowing you to see that they are working. The instrument panel should look like the illustration. If an indicator does not light during this test, it cannot alert you if that system develops a problem. Have the dealer check your car for burned-out bulbs (Except S) or other problems. SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT HIGH BEAM INDICATOR FOUR WHEEL STEERING SYSTEM INDICATOR SYSTEM (4WS) INDICATOR

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Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Indicator Lights

* The U.S. instrument panel is CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ shown. Differences for the Canadian CHECK ENGINE LIGHT* model are noted in the text.

LOW FUEL INDICATOR BRAKE LAMP INDICATOR

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*

PARKING BRAKE TRUNK-OPEN INDICATOR AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR* SEAT BELT DOOR-OPEN INDICATOR REMINDER LIGHT

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Indicator Lights

Seat Belt Reminder Light Charging System US Canada Parking Brake Indicator and Brake This indicator lights when you turn This light indicates the battery is not BRAKE System the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder being charged. It should come on Indicator to you and your passengers to when the ignition is ON (II), and go This light has two functions: protect yourselves by fastening the out after the engine starts. If this seat belts. A beeper also sounds if light comes on while driving, the 1. It lights as a reminder that you you have not fastened your seat belt. battery is not being charged. Turn to have set the parking brake. page 202 for information about what Driving with the parking brake set If you do not fasten your seat belt, to do. can damage the brakes and tires, the beeper will stop after a few and cause the Anti-lock brake seconds but the light stays on until Low Oil Pressure system to turn off (see page 118). you do. Both the light and the beeper Indicator stay off if you fasten your seat belt This indicator lights when the oil 2. It can indicate the brake fluid level before turning on the ignition. pressure in the engine drops low is low if it remains lit after you enough to cause damage. It should release the parking brake or light when the ignition is ON (II) and comes on while driving. This is go out after the engine starts. If this normally due to worn brake pads. light comes on when the engine is Have your dealer check the running, there is a possibility of braking system for worn pads or serious engine damage. Safely pull to fluid leaks. the side of the road and shut off the engine as soon as you can. Turn to page 201 for instructions and precautions on checking the engine.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Indicator Lights

Supplemental Restraint US Canada Anti-lock Brake US

SRS System Indicator A B S System (ABS) Malfunction Indicator The SRS light normally comes on for Indicator Lamp a few seconds when you turn the Only on cars equipped with ABS (see Canada ignition ON (II). If it doesn't, or it page 118) Check Engine Light stays on after the engine starts, This light normally comes on when something is wrong with the you turn the ignition ON (II) and This light comes on for a few Supplemental Restraint System. It goes off after the engine starts. If it seconds when you turn the ignition may also flash on and off to indicate comes on at any other time, there is switch ON (II). If it comes on at any a problem. a problem in the ABS. If this happens, other time, it indicates one of the stop the car in a safe place and turn engine's emission control systems If you see any of these indications, off the engine. Reset the system by may have a problem. Turn to page the airbag may not work when restarting the engine. 203 for information about what to do. needed in an accident. Take the car Watch the ABS light. If it does not to your dealer promptly for diagnosis go off, or comes back on again while and service. driving, take the car to your dealer to have it checked. With the light on, your car still has normal braking ability but no anti-lock.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Indicator Lights

Brake Lamp Four Wheel Steering Turn Signal and

BRAKE LAMP Indicator 4 W S System (4WS) Indicator Hazard Warning This light normally comes on for a Only on cars equipped with electronic Indicators few seconds when you turn the four wheel steering The left or right turn signal light ignition switch ON (II). If this light This light normally comes on when blinks when you signal a lane change comes on at any other time, it you turn the ignition ON (II) and or turn. If the light does not blink or indicates a brake light does not work. goes off after the engine starts. If it blinks rapidly, it usually means one comes on at any other time, there is of the turn signal bulbs is burned out A burned out brake light is a hazard a problem in the 4WS. If this (see page 172). Replace the bulb as when drivers behind you cannot tell happens, stop the car in a safe place soon as possible, since other drivers you are braking. Have your brake and turn off the engine. Reset the cannot see that you are signalling. lights repaired right away. system by restarting the engine. Watch the 4WS light. If it does not When you turn on the Hazard go off, or comes back on again while Warning switch, both turn signal driving, take the car to your dealer to lights blink. All turn signals on the have the system checked. outside of the car should flash.

The 4WS system is disabled with this light on. The rear wheels are locked straight ahead, and your car steers like a conventional car without 4WS.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Indicator Lights

High Beam Indicator Trunk-open Indicator D R L "Daytime Running Lights" Indicator This light comes on with the high This light comes on if the trunk lid is Canadian models only beam headlights. See page 42 for not closed tightly. This indicator lights when you turn information on the headlight the ignition to ON (II) with the controls. Door-open Indicator headlight switch off and the parking brake set. It should go off if you turn Low Fuel Indicator This light comes on if either door is on the headlights or release the not closed tightly. parking brake. If it comes on at any This light comes on as a reminder other time, it means there is a that you must refuel soon. problem with the DRL. There may also be a problem with the high CRUISE Cruise Control Indicator beam headlights. CONTROL This lights when you set the cruise control. See page 46 for information on operating the cruise control.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Indicator Lights

Shift Lever Position Indicator The "D4" indicator comes on for a (Automatic Transmission only) few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid acceler- ation and have the transmission LEADED checked by an authorized Honda LY dealer as soon as possible.

This indicator shows which shift position the shift lever is in.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Gauges

(S) Speedometer ODOMETER TRIP METER TRIP METER U.S. Models RESET BUTTON This shows your speed in miles per hour (mph). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in kilometers per hour (km/h).

Canadian Models This shows your speed in kilometers per hour (km/h). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in miles per hour (mph). TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER Tachometer (Except S) RESET/CHANGE KNOB The tachometer shows the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). To protect the engine from damage, never drive with the tachometer needle in the red zone.

TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER ODOMETER/TRIP METER

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Gauges

Odometer Trip Meter CHANGE/RESET KNOB The odometer shows the total dis- This meter shows the number of tance your car has been driven. It miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada) measures miles in U.S. models and driven since you last reset it. kilometers in Canadian models. It is illegal under federal law (in the (S model) U.S.) and provincial regulations (in To reset it, push the trip meter reset Canada) to disconnect, reset, or alter button. the odometer with the intent to change the number of miles or (Except S model) kilometers indicated. Your meter can show traveling distances of two separate trips. Each TRIP METER DISPLAY (Except S model) time you turn the Change/Reset The odometer and the trip meter use knob counterclockwise, the display To reset the trip meter, select the the same display. To change the changes from the odometer to reading you want to reset, TRIP 1 or display from the odometer to the trip TRIP 1, TRIP 2 then back to the TRIP 2 by turning the Change/Reset meter or vice versa, turn the odometer. Turning the knob knob. Then push the knob until the Change/Reset knob as explained in clockwise changes the display in the number resets to 0.0. the next column. reverse order.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Gauges

Temperature Gauge FUEL GAUGE TEMPERATURE The temperature gauge is fully GAUGE electronic. It uses a series of illuminated indicator bars to show the engine coolant's temperature range. Under normal driving conditions, you will see the bars illuminate to the display's midpoint. In more severe driving conditions, such as very hot weather or climbing a long hill, the engine may get hot enough to illuminate the white indicators on the right side of the gauge. If the red indicator above the Fuel Gauge H comes on, pull safely to the side of This shows how much fuel you have. As a test, all the indicator bars in the the road. Turn to page 199 for The fuel gauge is fully electronic, fuel gauge light for several seconds instructions and precautions on lighting the indicator bars to show when you turn the ignition to ON (II). checking the engine's cooling the current fuel level. It is most system. accurate when you are driving or parked on level ground. The As a test, all the indicator bars in the indicated fuel level may vary when temperature gauge illuminate when you are driving on curved or hilly you turn the ignition ON (II). roads.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Controls Near the Steering Wheel

The two levers on the steering INSTRUMENT PANEL WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS SUNROOF column contain controls for driving BRIGHTNESS features you use most often. The left lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams. The right lever controls the windshield wipers.

The controls on the dashboard to the left of the steering column are for the sunroof, cruise control and instrument panel brightness.

The lever on the underside of the steering column allows you to tilt the steering wheel.

CRUISE CONTROL

HEADLIGHTS/ TILT ADJUSTMENT TURN SIGNALS HAZARD WARNING

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Headlights If you leave the lights on with the To flash the high beams, pull back ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) and hold the turn signal lever. or LOCK (0), you will hear a Release the lever and the high reminder chime when you open the beams will go off. driver's door. The high beams will stay on for as long as you hold the lever, no matter what position the headlight switch is in.

Daytime Running Lights (Canadian Models) With the headlight switch off, the high beam headlights come on with The rotating switch on the left lever reduced brightness when you turn controls the lights. Turning this the ignition switch to ON (II) and switch to the first position turns release the parking brake. They on the parking lights, taillights, remain on until you turn the ignition instrument panel lights, side-marker To change between low beams and off, even if you set the parking brake. lights, and rear license plate lights. high beams, pull back on the turn Turning the switch to the second signal lever until you hear a click, The headlights revert to normal position turns on the headlights. then let go. The blue high beam operation when you turn them on indicator will light (see page 36). with the switch.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instrument Panel Brightness the dial up as far as it will go to To signal a lane change, push lightly return the fuel and temperature on the turn signal lever in the proper gauges to their daytime brightness. direction and hold it. The lever will return to the center position as soon Turn Signals as you release it.

The dial on the dashboard to the left of the instrument panel controls the brightness of the instrument panel TURN SIGNAL LEVER lights. Turn the dial to adjust the brightness. Signal a turn or lane change with this lever. Push down on the lever to To reduce glare at night, the fuel and signal a left turn, and up to signal a temperature gauges dim when you right turn. If you push it up or down turn on the parking lights or all the way, the turn signal continues headlights. You then adjust their to blink even when you release the brightness when you adjust the lever. It shuts off automatically as instrument panel brightness. Turn you complete the turn.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Windshield Wipers Windshield Washers

The right lever controls the wind- To operate the wipers in mist mode, To clean the windshield, pull back on shield wipers and washers. The push the control lever down. The the wiper control lever. The washers rotary switch at the end of the lever wipers run at high speed until you spray until you release the lever. has three positions: release the lever. This gives you a INT — intermittent quick way to clear the windshield. The wipers run at low speed while LO — low speed you're pulling the lever, then HI — high speed complete one more sweep of the windshield after you release it. In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. In low speed and high speed, the wipers run continu- ously.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Steering Wheel Adjustment 3. Move the steering wheel up or You can adjust the steering wheel down to the desired position. height to suit your preference. Do Position the wheel so you can see this before you begin driving. all the instrument panel gauges and warning lights. Push the lever up to lock the steering wheel in that position. Adjusting the steering wheel position while driving may 4. Make sure you have securely cause you to lose control of the locked the steering wheel in place car and be seriously injured in a by trying to move it up and down. crash.

Adjust the steering wheel only 1. Adjust the seat so you are a when the car is stopped. comfortable distance from the pedals.

2. The lever to tilt the steering wheel is under the steering column to the left. Push this lever all the way down.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Steering Wheel Controls

Cruise Control NOTICE Using the Cruise Control Cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) The cruise control, as it operates, without keeping your foot on the moves the accelerator pedal. You can accelerator pedal. It is for cruising on damage your car's accelerator straight, open highways. It is not mechanism by resting your foot under recommended for conditions such as the pedal and blocking the movement. city driving, winding roads, slippery roads, heavy rain, or bad weather. You should have full control of the car under those conditions.

Improper use of the cruise 1. Push in the Cruise Control Master control can lead to a crash. Switch to the left of the steering column. The indicator in the Use the cruise control only switch will light. when traveling on open highways in good weather. 2. Accelerate to the desired cruising speed above 25 mph (40 km/h).

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Steering Wheel Controls

Changing the Set Speed You can decrease the set cruising You can increase the set cruising speed in either of two ways: speed in either of two ways: Press and hold the SET/decel Press and hold the accel/ button. The car will decelerate. RESUME button. The car will Release the button when you accelerate slowly. When you reach reach the desired speed. the desired cruising speed, release the button. Tap the brake or clutch pedal lightly with your foot. The accel/ Push on the accelerator pedal. Ac- CRUISE CONTROL light on the RESUME celerate to the desired cruising instrument panel will go out. When the car slows to the desired SET/decel speed and press the SET/decel button. speed, press the SET/decel button. 3. Press and hold the SET/decel The car will then maintain the button on the steering wheel until desired speed. the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel comes on. This shows the system is now activated.

The set speed may vary slightly, particularly on hills.

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Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Steering Wheel Controls

Even with the cruise control turned When you tap the brake or clutch button. on, you can still use the accelerator pedal, or press the SET and RE- pedal to speed up for passing. After SUME buttons at the same time, the Pressing the Cruise Control Master completing the pass, take your foot CRUISE CONTROL light on the Switch turns the system completely off the accelerator pedal. The car instrument panel will go out and the off and erases the previous cruising will return to the set cruising speed. car will begin to slow down. You can speed from memory. To use the use the accelerator pedal in the system again, refer to Using the Resting your foot on the brake or normal way. Cruise Control. clutch pedal will cause the cruise control to cancel. If you use the brake or clutch pedal to cancel cruise control, the system Cancelling the Cruise Control retains the previously-set cruising Any of these actions cause the cruise speed. To return to that speed, ac- control to cancel. celerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h) and press the accel/RESUME button Tap the brake or clutch pedal. until the CRUISE CONTROL light comes on. The car will accelerate to Press the SET/decel and accel/ the same cruising speed as before. RESUME buttons at the same time. If you cancel cruise control by pressing the SET and RESUME Press the Cruise Control Master buttons at the same time, the Switch. previously-set cruising speed is erased. To use the cruise control, accelerate to the desired cruising speed and press the SET/decel

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Steering Wheel Controls, Keys and Locks

Horn Keys The valet key only works the ignition and the door locks. You can keep the HORN BUTTONS VALET KEY MASTER KEY trunk, trunk release handle and rear seat trunk access locked when you leave your car and valet key at a parking facility. (See Trunk, page 52.)

You should have received a key number plate with your set of keys. You will need this key number if you ever have to replace a lost key. Store this plate in a safe place. When replacing keys, use only Honda-approved key blanks. Press either of the buttons on the Your car comes with two kinds of steering wheel spokes to sound the keys: a master key and a valet key. horn. The master key fits all locks on your car: Ignition Doors Trunk Trunk release handle Rear seat trunk access

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Keys and Locks

Ignition Switch LOCK (0) — You can insert or ACCESSORY (I) — In this position, remove the key only in this position. you can operate the audio system When you turn the key from LOCK and cigarette lighter. to ACCESSORY, you may have to turn the steering wheel to release ON (II) — This is the normal key the anti-theft lock. To switch from position when driving. All features ACCESSORY to LOCK, you must and accessories on the car are usable. push the key in slightly as you turn it. Several of the lights on the instru- If your car has an automatic trans- ment panel come on as a test when mission, it must also be in Park. The you turn the ignition switch from anti-theft lock will lock the steering ACCESSORY to ON (see page 31 ). column when you remove the key. START (III) — Use this position only to start the engine. The switch The ignition switch is on the right returns to ON when you let go of the side of the steering column. It has Removing the key from the key. four positions: LOCK (0), ACCES- ignition switch while driving SORY (I), ON (II), and START (III). locks the steering. This can You will hear a reminder beeper if cause you to lose control. you open the driver's door with the key in the LOCK or ACCESSORY Remove the key from the position. Remove the key to turn it ignition switch only when off. parked.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Keys and Locks

Door Locks The doors can also be locked and Power Door Locks unlocked from the outside with the key.

Each door has a lock tab next to the Available on U.S. Si, and VTEC models, inside door handle. Push the tab in to and Canadian SR, SR 4WS and SR-V lock the door and pull it out to unlock. models Each door has a master door lock To lock the passenger's door when switch. Either switch locks and getting out of the car, push the lock unlocks both doors. Push the switch tab in and close the door. To lock the down to lock and up to unlock. driver's door, pull the door handle and push the lock tab in. Release the handle then close the door.

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Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Keys and Locks

Both doors lock when you push in Trunk the lock tab on the driver's door, or lock the driver's door from the MASTER KEY outside with the key. Only the driver's door unlocks when you use the key or lock tab. To unlock the passenger's door, use the master door lock switch or pull out the lock tab on passenger's door.

Lockout Prevention If you forget and leave the key in the TRUNK RELEASE ignition switch. Lockout Prevention HANDLE will not allow you to lock the driver's door. With either door open and the You can open the trunk in two ways: To close the trunk, press down on key in the ignition, the master door the trunk lid. lock switches are disabled. If you try Pull the trunk release handle to to lock the driver's door by pushing the left of the driver's seat. See page 106 for cargo loading and in the lock tab, the tabs on both weight limit information. Keep the doors immediately pop out. Use the master key to open the trunk lid closed at all times while trunk lock. The valet key does not driving to avoid damaging the lid and work in this lock. getting exhaust gas in the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 25.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Keys and Locks, Seat Adjustments

Seat Adjustments Adjust the seat before you start driving.

MASTER KEY To adjust the seat forward and To protect items in the trunk when backward, pull up on the lever under you need to give the key to someone the seat cushion's front edge. Move else, lock the trunk release handle the seat to the desired position and with the master key and give the release the lever. Try to move the other person the valet key. seat to make sure it is locked in position.

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Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Seat Adjustments

Rear Seat Access

Reclining the seat-back can decrease the protection you get from your seat belt in a crash.

You can slide under the seat belt and be seriously injured.

Adjust the seat-back to an upright position and sit well back in the seat.

To change the angle of the seat-back, pull up on the lever on the outside of To tilt the front seat-back forward, the seat bottom. Move the seat-back pull up on the release lever. This to the desired position and release lever is on the side of each seat-back. the lever. Let the seat-back latch in You can also tilt the seat-back the new position. forward by pulling up the seat-back angle adjustment lever.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Seat Adjustments

Additional Driver's Seat Lumbar Support Fine Adjustment of Seat-back Angle Adjustments The driver's seat in the Si and VTEC models in the U.S., and the SR, SR 4WS and SR-V models in Canada has additional features. They are: lumbar support adjustment, fine adjustment of seat-back angle, and seat-back angle memory.

Vary the lumbar support by moving Adjust the seat-back angle to the the lever on the right side of the desired position with the adjustment seat-back. lever on the outside of the seat bottom. Then use the fine adjustment lever at the base of the seat-back to change the angle a small amount to suit your preference. Move the lever forward and backward.

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Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Seat Adjustments, Seat Heaters

Seat-back Angle Memory Seat Heaters Do not use the seat heaters when the engine is off or when idling for a INDICATORS long period of time. They can drain the battery, making your car hard to start.

After you have adjusted the seat- Available only on SR 4WS and SR-V back angle, press the MEMORY models in Canada button. This retains the setting so Both front seats are equipped with the seat-back will return to that seat heaters. The ignition must be position after you tilt it forward for ON (II) to use them. Push the heater rear seat access. If you do not press switch to turn the power on or off. the MEMORY button, the seat-back The pilot lamp lights and remains on will return to about the midpoint of while the heaters are on. its adjustment range. You will then have to readjust the angle to your preference.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Folding Rear Seat

MASTER KEY RELEASE LOOP Make sure all items in the trunk, or items extending through the opening into the back seat, are tied down. Loose items can fly forward and cause injury if you have to brake hard. See Loading Cargo on page 106. Pull Never drive with the seat-back folded down and the trunk lid open. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 25.

The back of the right rear seat folds To release the seat-back from inside down, giving you direct access to the the trunk, pull the release loop under trunk. The seat-back can be released the rear shelf. from inside the car or inside the trunk. To lock the seat-back upright, push it firmly against the rear shelf. Make To fold down the seat-back from sure it is latched in place by pulling inside the car, insert the master key on the top of the seat. in the lock on the rear shelf. Turn the key clockwise, pull down the top of the seat-back, then release the key.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Hazard Warning, Rear Window Defogger

Hazard Warning 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.

Push the red button on the center The rear window defogger will clear console to turn on the hazard warn- fog, frost, and thin ice from the ing lights (four-way flashers). This window. Push the defogger button to causes all four outside turn signals turn it on and off. The light in the and both indicators in the instrument button lights to show the defogger is panel to flash. Use the lights to give on. If you do not turn it off, the a warning to other road users that defogger will shut itself off after your vehicle is causing a hazard. about 25 minutes. It also shuts off when you turn off the ignition. You have to turn it on again when you restart the car.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Power Windows

Your car's windows are electrically- The master control panel also con- powered. Turn the ignition switch to tains these extra features: ON (II) to raise or lower any window. AUTO — To open the driver's Each door has a switch that controls window fully, push the window its window. To open the window, switch firmly down and release it. push the switch down and hold it. The window automatically goes all Release the switch when you want the way down. To stop the window the window to stop. Close the from going all the way down, push window by pushing the switch up the window switch up briefly. and holding it. MAIN DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH SWITCH To open the driver's window only partially, push the window switch The driver's door has a master down lightly and hold it. The window power window control panel. To will stop as soon as you release the open the passenger's window, push switch. down on the switch and hold it down until the window reaches the desired The AUTO function only works to position. To close the window, push lower the driver's window. To raise up on the window switch. Release the window, you must push the the switch when the window gets to window switch up and hold it until the position you want. the window reaches the desired position.

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Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Power Windows, Sunroof

The MAIN switch controls power to The power window system has a key- Sunroof the passenger's window. With this off delay function. The windows will switch off, the passenger's window still operate for up to ten minutes cannot be raised or lowered. The after you turn off the ignition. MAIN switch does not affect the Opening either front door cancels driver's window. Keep the MAIN the delay function. You must turn switch off when you have children in the ignition ON (II) again before you the car so they do not injure can raise or lower the windows. themselves by operating the windows unintentionally.

Closing a power window on a child's hands or fingers can cause serious injury. Use the switch on the dashboard to Make sure your children are open and close the sunroof. The away from the windows before ignition must be ON (II). Push and closing them. hold the switch to open the sunroof. Release the switch when the sunroof reaches the desired position. To close the sunroof, press and hold the switch.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Sunroof, Mirrors

The sunroof has a key-off delay. You Mirrors can still open and close the sunroof for up to ten minutes after you turn Closing the sunroof on off the ignition. The key-off delay someone's hands or fingers can cancels as soon as you open either cause serious injury. front door. You must then turn the ignition ON (II) for the sunroof to Make sure passengers are operate. clear of the sunroof before closing it.

NOTICE TAB

If you try to open the sunroof in below- freezing temperatures, or when it is Keep the inside and outside mirrors covered with snow or ice, you can clean and adjusted for best visibility. damage the sunroof panel or motor. Be sure to adjust the mirrors before you start driving.

The inside mirror has day and night positions. The night position reduces glare from headlights behind you. Flip the tab on the bottom edge of the mirror to select the day or night position.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Mirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH

Adjust the outside mirrors with the 3. Push the appropriate edge of the The outside mirror on the passenger's adjustment switch on the center adjustment switch to move the side has curved glass. Objects look console: mirror right, left, up or down. farther away than they are. Use this mirror to get a "wide view". Don't 1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). 4. When you finish, move the use it to judge the distance of things selector switch to the center (off) behind you. 2. Move the selector switch to L position. This turns off the (driver's side) or R (passenger's adjustment switch so you can't side). move a mirror out of position by accidentally bumping it.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Mirrors, Parking Brake

Parking Brake NOTICE

PARKING BRAKE LEVER Driving the car with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles.

Available on all Canadian models To apply the parking brake, pull the The outside mirrors are heated to lever up fully. To release it, pull up remove fog and frost. Press the slightly, push the button, and lower mirror defroster button to turn on the lever. The parking brake light on the heaters when the ignition is ON the instrument panel should go out (II). The light in the button comes on when the parking brake is fully as a reminder. Press the button released (see page 33). If you try to again to turn the heaters off. drive the car without releasing the parking brake, the ABS cannot work properly.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Glove Box, Digital Clock

Glove Box Digital Clock

Open An open glove box can cause KNOB KNOB serious injury to your passenger in a crash, even if the passenger is wearing the seat belt.

Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

GLOVE BOX Open the glove box by turning the The digital clock displays the time knob clockwise. To close, push the with the ignition switch ON (II). lid up and turn the knob counter- To set the clock: clockwise to lock. 1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) to display the time.

2. Turn the knob toward H (counter- clockwise) and hold it until the hour advances to the desired time.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Digital Clock, Vanity Mirror, Cigarette Lighter

3. Turn the knob toward M Vanity Mirror Cigarette Lighter (clockwise) and hold it until the numbers advance to the desired time.

You can use the same knob to quickly set the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed time is before the half hour, pressing the knob sets the clock back to the previous hour. If the displayed time is after the half hour, pressing the knob sets the clock forward to the beginning of the CIGARETTE LIGHTER next hour. To use the vanity mirror, pull down The ignition switch must be in For example: either sun visor and swing down the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for the 1:06 would RESET backward to cover. cigarette lighter to work. To heat up 1:00. the lighter, push it in. It will pop out 1:52 would RESET forward to 2:00. when it is ready for use. Do not hold the lighter in while it is heating up, you could cause it to overheat.

Instruments and Controls ▼ Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ Ashtrays

Ashtray NOTICE ASHTRAY Use the ashtray only for cigarettes, cigars and other smoking materials. To prevent a possible fire and damage to your car, don't put paper or other things that can burn in the ashtray.

ASHTRAY

Open the front ashtray by swinging The rear ashtray is at the rear end of the lid down. To remove it for the center console. Open the ashtray emptying, open the lid then pull the by swinging the upper edge of the lid ashtray straight outward. down. To remove the ashtray for emptying, open it then lift up and out.

Instruments and Controls ▼ Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ Beverage Holder

LID Be careful when you are using the beverage holder. Spilled liquids can damage the upholstery, carpeting, and electrical components in the interior. If the liquid is very hot, it can scald you or your passengers.

To open the beverage holder, push Use the beverage holder only when on the lid. the car is parked. If you place cups in the holder while driving, the liquid may spill when you go over bumps or around corners.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Console Compartment, Interior Lights

Console Compartment Ceiling Lights

LEVER DOOR ACTIVATED DOOR ACTIVATED

OFF ON

OFF ON

CONSOLE COMPARTMENT To open the console compartment, On S and Si models in the U.S., and S On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR press the lever and lift the lid. and SR models in Canada 4WS and SR-V models in Canada The ceiling light has a three-position The ceiling light contains a main switch. In the OFF position, the light light as well as two spotlights. does not come on. In the center position, the ceiling light comes on when you open either door. In the ON position, the ceiling light stays on continuously.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Interior Lights

The ceiling light has a three-position Ignition Switch Light switch. In the OFF position, the light does not come on. In the center position, the main light comes on when you open either door. In the ON position, the main light stays on continuously.

Turn on the spotlight by pushing the Available on Si and VTEC models in the button next to each light. Push the U.S., and on SR, SR 4WS and SR-V button again to turn it off. You can models in Canada use the spotlights at all times. This light comes on whenever you open the driver's door. This light stays on for a few seconds after you close the door.

Instruments and Controls Main Menu ▲ ▼ Comfort and Convenience Features

The heating and air conditioning* Heating and Cooling...... 72 Audio System...... 79 system in your car provides a com- What Each Control Does...... 74 AM/FM/Cassette Stereo fortable driving environment in all How to Use the System...... 75 Audio System...... 79 weather conditions. Controlling Air Flow Operating the Radio...... 81 Direction...... 75 Presetting...... 83 The audio sound system is very Ventilation...... 75 Adjusting the Sound...... 85 versatile. To get the most from this To Cool with A/C...... 76 Radio Frequencies...... 86 system, take the time to learn what To Heat...... 77 Operating the Cassette Player... 87 the controls do. To Heat and Dehumidify Cassette Search Functions...... 89 with Air Conditioning...... 77 Caring for Cassettes...... 89 Some models have an anti-theft To Defog and Defrost...... 78 Operating the CD Changer or audio system that requires a code To Turn Everything Off...... 78 Player...... 90 number to enable it. CD Error Indications...... 93 Caring for the Cassette Player...... 94 * Air conditioning is optional on the Theft Protection...... 95 Canadian S model.

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Heating and Cooling

This system has full heating, venti- CENTER VENT CORNER VENT lation, and air conditioning capabi- lities. You can adjust the system controls to mix these in various combinations. The air flows into the interior at three possible levels, which you can select.

(Canadian S model only) If you purchased your car without air conditioning, it can be installed at any time. A Genuine Honda air conditioning system is available from your dealer. It meets Honda's high The direction of air flow from the The heating and cooling system quality standards and is designed to vents in the center of the dashboard draws air through the exterior vents fit your car. Please contact your and the corner vents in each door is at the bottom of the windshield. dealer for more information. adjustable. Move the tab in the Keep these vents clear of leaves and center of each vent up-and-down and other debris. side-to-side.

The center, corner and side defroster vents can be opened and closed with the dials next to them.

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Heating and Cooling

SIDE DEFROSTER VENT

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Heating and Cooling

What Each Control Does MODE BUTTONS REAR WINDOW Fan Control Lever DEFROSTER BUTTON Sliding this lever to the right RECIRCULATION increases the fan speed, which BUTTON increases air flow.

Temperature Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the temperature of air flowing from the system.

Mode Buttons These buttons control the direction TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL AIR CONDITIONING of air flow. The indicator light shows CONTROL LEVER LEVER SWITCH which button is controlling air flow.

Air Conditioning (A/C) Switch Recirculation Button between recirculated and fresh air. This switch turns the air condi- This button controls the source of air tioning ON and OFF. The indicator going into the system. When the Rear Window Defroster Button in the switch lights when the A/C is indicator in this button is lit, the This button turns the rear window ON. system is recirculating the interior defroster on and off (see page 58). air (Recirculation mode). When the indicator is off, fresh air is brought in from outside the car (Fresh Air mode). Push the button to change

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Heating and Cooling

How to Use the System The engine must be running for the Ventilation This section covers the best way to heater and air conditioning to pro- Your car has a flow-through use the system for ventilation, vide hot and cold air. The heater ventilation system. Air enters the car cooling, dehumidifying, defrosting uses engine coolant to warm the air. through vents in front of the and heating. In most cases, the mode If the engine is cold, it will be several windshield. It circulates through the and air source selections are only minutes before you feel warm air interior then exits through vents recommendations. You may prefer circulating. near the rear window. This system different settings. provides fresh air even when the car The air conditioning system does not is standing still. To bring in outside Use Recirculation mode to heat or depend on engine temperature. It air, select the Fresh Air mode. Set cool the interior more quickly, or to can produce cold air almost immedi- the fan at a comfortable speed. keep out smoke and dust. Leaving ately. the system in the recirculation mode with the A/C off can cause the Controlling Air Flow Direction windows to fog up. Switch to Fresh Air flows into the interior at three Air mode as soon as the interior levels: Toward the floor reaches a comfortable temperature through the dash vents and or the outside smoky, dusty toward the windshield and side condition clears. windows You select the air flow level or combination of levels with the five mode buttons.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Heating and Cooling

To Cool with A/C To operate the air conditioning system, press the air conditioning MODE BUTTONS AIR CONDITIONING switch. Set the fan to the desired SWITCH speed. You can also use the mode button to direct air out of the dash and heater vents.

To cool the interior down rapidly after the car has been sitting in the sun:

1. Start the engine. 2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL switch. CONTROL LEVER LEVER 3. Set the fan to maximum speed. 4. Open the windows partially. Select the Recirculation mode and The air conditioning places an extra While cooling the interior with the load on the engine. Watch the engine air conditioning on, keep the side coolant temperature gauge (see page defroster vents closed to prevent the When the interior reaches a com- 40) when using the A/C in heavy side windows from being fogged. fortable temperature, close the traffic or driving up long hills. If the windows and set the system for temperature indication climbs near cooling as described above. the H, turn off the air conditioning until the gauge reads normally.

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Heating and Cooling

To Heat To warm the interior: MODE BUTTONS AIR CONDITIONING 1. Start the engine. SWITCH 2. Select the Fresh Air mode and

3. Switch the fan to the desired speed. 4. Adjust the warmth of the air with the temperature control lever.

To Heat and Dehumidify with Air Conditioning Air conditioning removes moisture TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL from the air as it operates. When CONTROL LEVER LEVER used in combination with the heater, it makes the interior warm and dry. 1. Switch the fan on. This setting is suitable for all driving 2. Turn on the air conditioning. conditions whenever the outside 3. Select the Fresh Air mode and temperature is above 32°F (0°C). press any desired mode button. 4. Adjust the temperature control lever so the mixture of heated and cooled air feels comfortable.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Heating and Cooling

To Defog and Defrost To rapidly remove exterior frost or To Turn Everything Off To remove fog from the inside of the ice from the windshield (on very cold To shut off the system temporarily, windows: days), first select the Recirculation slide the fan speed and temperature mode. Once the windshield is clear, control levers all the way to the left. 1. Switch the fan on. select the Fresh Air mode to avoid 2. Turn on the air conditioning. fogging the windows. You should shut the system com- 3. Select the Fresh Air mode and pletely off only for the first few These settings direct all the air flow minutes of driving in cold weather, 4. Adjust the temperature control to the defroster vents at the base of until the engine coolant warms up lever so the air flow from the the windshield and the side windows. enough to operate the heater. Keep defroster vents feels warm. The air flow will get warmer and the fan on at all other times so stale 5. Turn on the rear window defogger clear the windows faster as the air does not build up in the interior. to help clear the rear window. engine warms up. You can close the corner vents with the dial beside To remove exterior frost or ice from each vent. This will send more warm the windshield and side windows air to the windshield defroster vents. after the car has been sitting out in For safety, make sure you have a cold weather: clear view through all the windows before driving away. 1. Start the engine. 2. Select the Fresh Air mode and

3. Switch the fan and temperature controls to maximum.

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio (S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT System Your Honda audio system is easy to use, and will give clear AM/FM reception. The preset buttons allow you to select six stations on AM and twelve stations on FM.

TUNE/SEEK FF/REW/TMS AM/FM PRESET SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS

(Except S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT

TUNE/SEEK FF/REW/TMS AM/FM PRESET SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

The cassette system uses (S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT Dolby B® * noise reduction to give excellent sound reproduction. The system also senses when a metal or chromium-dioxide (CrO2) tape is being played and adjusts accordingly.

Except S model The Anti-theft feature disables the system if it is disconnected from the TUNE/SEEK car's battery. To get the system FF/REW/TMS AM/FM PRESET working again, you must enter a SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS code number. (Except S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT * Dolby noise reduction manufac- tured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. "DOLBY" and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

TUNE/SEEK FF/REW/TMS AM/FM PRESET SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

Operating the Radio (S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB STEREO INDICATOR The ignition switch must be in AC- CESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on by turning the ON/OFF/VOL knob clockwise. The radio comes on and displays the frequency of the station it was last tuned to. The antenna extends automatically. The system turns off and the anten- na retracts when you turn the igni- AM/FM BUTTON tion switch to LOCK (0).

Adjust the volume by turning the (Except S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB STEREO INDICATOR ON/OFF/VOL knob.

Select the band you want to listen to by pressing the AM or FM1/FM2 button. You will see the selected band and the frequency in the display.

ST will be displayed next to the fre- quency if the station is broadcasting in FM stereo. The AM stereo feature AM/FM BUTTON is not available. CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

You can use any of three methods to (S) find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset buttons.

The TUNE function lets you find a desired frequency. Push the TUNE/ SEEK switch up to change to a higher frequency, and down to change to a lower frequency. To change the frequency up or down TUNE/SEEK PRESET a single increment, push and release SWITCH BUTTONS the TUNE/SEEK switch. (Except S) The SEEK function searches the band for stations with a strong signal. Depending on which way you push the TUNE/SEEK switch, the system searches up or down from the current frequency. Push the switch until you hear a beep, then release it. The system searches until it finds a station with a strong signal, then stops. If you do not want to listen to that station, push TUNE/SEEK TUNE/SEEK PRESET again. SWITCH BUTTONS

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

Presetting (S) The preset buttons allow you to store radio frequencies for later selection. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two on the FM band. To store a frequency:

1. Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each Preset TUNE/SEEK AM/FM PRESET button. SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function (Except S) AUTO SELECT LIGHT to tune the radio to a desired station.

3. Pick the Preset button you want for that station. Press the button and hold it until you hear a beep.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total of six stations on AM and twelve on FM. TUNE/SEEK AM/FM PRESET AUTO SELECT SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS BUTTON CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

Once that station's frequency is Except S model AUTO SELECT does not erase the stored, simply press and release the The AUTO SELECT function allows stations you have manually preset. proper preset button to tune to it. If you to find stations easily when you When you return to your normal you want to change any preset are in an unfamiliar area. Press the reception area, turn off AUTO button's selection, store another fre- AUTO SELECT button. The system SELECT by pressing the button quency as described. The frequen- automatically scans both bands to again. The light goes out and the cies you preset will be lost if your find six strong stations on AM and Preset buttons can then select the car's battery goes dead or is discon- twelve on FM, and stores their stations you originally set. nected. frequencies in the Preset buttons. You can then use the Preset buttons You cannot manually store radio in the normal manner to select those station frequencies in the Preset stations. "A SELECT" stays buttons when AUTO SELECT is ON. displayed next to the frequency as a If you do not like the stations found reminder. by AUTO SELECT, you can still use the TUNE or SEEK function to find If you are in a remote area, AUTO other stations. SELECT may not find enough stations to fill all the available presets. If this is the case, you will see a "0" displayed when you press any Preset button that does not have a station stored.

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

Adjusting the Sound Use the Balance and Fader controls to adjust the sound "direction". The Balance control moves it left-to-right. The Fader control moves it front-to- back.

To use either control, push on the knob to get it to pop out. Adjust the front-to-back sound to your liking with the outside ring. FADER BALANCE BASS TREBLE CONTROL CONTROL CONTROL CONTROL Adjust side-to-side sound balance with the knob. Push the knob back in The illumination for the radio con- Use the Bass and Treble controls to when you are done. trols comes on with the instrument adjust the tone quality to your liking. panel lights, even if the radio is off. Push on the knob to get the controls You can use the Balance control to to pop out. Adjust the bass level with turn off the radio panel illumination the outer ring and the treble level even with the radio on. Push the with the knob. When finished, push control knob so it pops out, then pull the knobs back in so there is less it out slightly further. Check this chance of accidentally changing your control if the control panel lights do settings. not come on with the instrument panel lights.

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

Radio Frequencies (S) Your Honda's radio can tune in all frequencies in both the AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequen- cies:

AM band: 530 kilohertz to 1,710 kilohertz FM band: 87.7 megahertz to 107.9 megahertz AM/FM BUTTON Radio stations on the AM band are assigned frequencies at least 10 (Except S) kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550). Those on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0.2 megahertz apart (87.9,88.1, 88.3).

Stations must use these exact frequencies. It is fairly common for stations to round-off the frequency in their advertising, so your radio will show a frequency of 100.9 even though the announcer may call the AM/FM BUTTON station "FM101."

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

Operating the Cassette Player (S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE TAPE DIRECTION Turn the system ON. Insert the SLOT INDICATOR cassette into the slot with the tape opening to the right. Push the cassette in most of the way. The drive will pull it in the rest of the way and begin to play.

The or will light to show you which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates the side you EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY inserted facing upward is now BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON playing. To play the other side of the tape, press the PROG button. (Except S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE TAPE DIRECTION SLOT INDICATOR The system also has an Auto-reverse feature. It will automatically reverse direction when it reaches the end of the cassette.

EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

Dolby® noise reduction turns on (S) when you insert a cassette. If the tape was not recorded with Dolby "B" noise reduction, turn it off by pressing the button.

To remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button. The system automatically ejects the cassette whenever you turn off the system or the ignition switch. FF/REW/TMS EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY REPEAT SWITCH BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON

(Except S)

FF/REW/TMS EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY REPEAT SWITCH BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

Cassette Search Functions passage, it goes back to play. The The REPEAT and TMS functions Once a cassette is playing, you can system will continue repeating this use silent periods on the tape to find use the FF, REW, TMS, or REPEAT passage until you turn off REPEAT the end of a selection. These function to look for desired songs or by pressing the button again. features may not work satisfactorily passages. on tapes that have almost no gap The TMS function lets you skip to between songs, a high noise level To rewind the tape, push the FF/ the beginning of a song or other between songs, or silent periods in REW/TMS switch down then passage. The tape skips forward or the middle of songs. release it. You will see REW in the backward, depending on which display. To fast forward the tape, direction you push the FF/REW/ Caring for Cassettes push the switch up then release it. TMS switch. Damaged cassettes can jam inside You will see FF displayed. To stop the drive or cause other problems. rewind or fast forward, press the Activate TMS by pushing the FF/ See page 94 for information on PLAY button. If the system reaches REW/TMS switch and holding it cassette care and protection. the end of the cassette while in fast until you hear a beep. If you push the forward or rewind, it automatically switch down, you will see REW stops that function, reverses blinking in the display as the tape direction, and begins to play. rewinds. If you push the switch up, you will see FF blinking in the Press the REPEAT button to replay display as the tape fast forwards. the current passage. You will see When the system senses a silent RPT displayed. When the system period on the tape, it goes back to reaches the end of the song or PLAY mode. passage that is being played, it automatically goes into rewind. When it senses the beginning of that

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

Operating the CD Changer or To operate the CD changer, the You can use the TUNE/SEEK Player ignition key must be in ACCESSORY switch while a disc is playing to (Optional) (I) or ON (II). If you are listening to select passages and change tracks. A Compact Disc changer is available a cassette tape, eject it before To move rapidly forward within a for your car. It holds up to six discs, playing a CD. track, push up and hold the TUNE/ providing several hours of continu- SEEK switch. Push down and hold ous programming. You operate the Press the CD button until "CD" the switch to move rapidly backward CD changer with the same controls appears on the display. Once in the within a track. You will hear a beep a used for the radio and cassette CD mode, the system will start to half second after you push the player. play the first track of the first disc in switch up or down. Keep pushing the the magazine. switch until you think the track has Load the desired CD's in the advanced or returned to the desired magazine and load the magazine in When that disc ends, the next disc in position. The disc will start playing the changer according to the the magazine is loaded and played. when you release the switch. instructions that came with the unit. After disc 6 has completed, the If you push the TUNE/SEEK switch Your dealer has Genuine Honda system will return to disc 1. To make up and release it before you hear a accessory in-dash CD players your own disc selection, push one of beep, the system will skip forward to available that are operated by the the six preset buttons. Your selection the beginning of the next track on radio controls. If you have one of will appear in the display and start that CD. these units, use the directions in this playing. It will skip backward to the begin- section (except for multi-disc ning of the current track if you push selection) to operate it. the switch down and release it.

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

(S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB RPT INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK CD BUTTON REPEAT BUTTON SWITCH

(Except S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB A. SELECT RPT INDICATOR INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK CD BUTTON A. SELECT/ REPEAT BUTTON SWITCH CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

If you push the REPEAT button on Except S model If you change modes to radio or the S model or the A. SELECT/ You can get the CD player to tape while a CD is playing, then REPEAT button on the other models, randomly select tracks by pressing change back to CD mode, the the system will continuously play the A. SELECT/REPEAT until you see same disc and track will play. track you are listening to. You will A. SELECT in the display. see RPT in the display. With this active, the system selects If you turn off the system while a Push the switch again to turn off and plays the tracks randomly, CD is playing, either with the ON- REPEAT mode. rather than sequentially, on each OFF/VOL knob or by turning off disc. When the system has played all the ignition, the system will begin the tracks on that disc, it loads the at the same disc and track when next disc and starts to play randomly. you turn it back on. The system continues to select and play tracks randomly on each of the If you try to select an empty slot in six discs until you press the the magazine, the system will A. SELECT/REPEAT button again. select and play the first track of the next disc in the magazine. To turn on random play mode while the system is in the REPEAT mode, To return to the radio function, press turn off REPEAT mode first by the AM/FM button. pressing the A. SELECT/REPEAT button. Then, press the button again as explained above.

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Audio System

CD Error Indications If you see an error indication on the display, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error indication, take the car to your Honda dealer.

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Caring for the Cassette Player

CLEAN INDICATOR regularly cleaning the tape drive at Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes. least every 30 hours, reset the Cassettes longer than 100 minutes indicator by pressing the Preset 6 use thinner tape that may break or button while the system is in the jam the drive. tape operation mode. Hold the button until you hear a beep and the Look at a cassette before you insert CLEAN indicator goes out. it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning one of the hubs with a pencil If you do not clean the cassette drive or your finger. regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the deposits If the label is peeling off, do not put with a normal cleaning kit. it in the player. It may cause the cassette to jam in the drive mecha- The cassette drive picks up dirt and The cassette player automatically nism when you try to eject it. oxides whenever you play a tape. ejects cassettes that do not play This builds up over time and causes normally. If it ejects a cassette Do not leave cassettes sitting where the sound quality to degrade. To before it begins to play, it is probably they are exposed to high heat or prevent this, you should clean the defective and should not be inserted humidity, such as on top of the cassette drive after every 30 hours of again. You may have a cassette dashboard or in the player. If a use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit suddenly stop playing, reverse cassette is exposed to extreme heat available for this purpose. directions once or twice and then or cold, let it reach a moderate eject. This is normally an indication temperature before putting it in the After 30 hours of tape use, you will the tape is wound unevenly. It should player. see CLEAN flashing for 5 seconds in play normally after being manually the display when you insert a tape rewound. into the tape slot. If you are already

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Theft Protection

Except S model If your car's battery is disconnected You will have to store your favorite Your car's audio system will disable or goes dead, the audio system will stations in the Preset buttons after itself if it is disconnected from disable itself. If this happens, you the system begins working. Your electrical power for any reason. To will see "Code" in the frequency original settings were lost when make it work again, the user must display the next time you turn on the power was disconnected. enter a specific five-digit code in the system. Use the Preset buttons to Preset buttons. Because there are enter the five-digit code. If it is hundreds of number combinations entered correctly, the radio will start possible from five digits, making the playing. system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible. If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over or try to You should have received a card that correct your mistake. Complete the lists your audio system's code five-digit sequence, then enter the number and serial number. It is best correct code. You have three tries to to store this card in a safe place at enter the correct code. If you are home, or to keep it in your wallet or unsuccessful in three attempts, you purse. In addition, you should write must then leave the system on for the audio system's serial number in one hour before trying again. this Owner's Manual. If you should happen to lose the card, you must obtain the code number from your Honda dealer. To do this, you will need the system's serial number.

Comfort and Convenience Features Main Menu ▲ ▼ Before Driving

Before you begin driving your Honda, Break-in Period...... 98 you should know what gasoline to Gasoline...... 98 use, and how to check the levels of Oxygenated Fuels...... 98 important fluids. You also need to Driving in Foreign Countries..... 99 know how to properly stow luggage Service Station Procedures...... 100 or packages. This section will help Filling the Fuel Tank...... 100 you. If you plan to add any accesso- Opening the Hood...... 101 ries to your car, please read the Fuel Economy...... 104 information in this section first. Vehicle Condition...... 104 Driving Habits...... 104 Accessories...... 105 Loading Cargo...... 106

Before Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Break-in Period, Gasoline

Break-in Period Gasoline (All other models) Help assure your car's future Your Honda is designed to operate Use a premium unleaded gasoline reliability and performance by paying most effectively on unleaded with a pump octane number of 91 or extra attention to how you drive gasoline. higher. during the first 1,000 km (600 miles). If you are unable to find premium During this period: We recommend gasolines containing unleaded, you may substitute an detergent additives that help prevent unleaded regular gasoline. The Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid fuel system and engine deposits. engine will compensate for the lower acceleration. octane, but you may notice a slight Using gasoline containing lead will decrease in power as a result. If you need to add oil, use the damage your car's emission controls. engine oil recommended in this This contributes to air pollution and Oxygenated Fuels owner's manual. can void certain parts of your Some conventional gasolines are warranty. being blended with alcohol or an Avoid hard braking. New brakes ether compound. These gasolines need to be broken-in by moderate (S model) are collectively referred to as use for the first 300 km (200 Use an unleaded gasoline with a oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air miles). pump octane number of 86 or higher. standards, some areas of the United Use of a lower octane gasoline can States and Canada use oxygenated You should follow these same re- cause a persistent, heavy metallic fuels to help reduce emissions. commendations with an overhauled rapping noise in the engine that can or exchanged engine, or when the lead to mechanical damage. If you use an oxygenated fuel, be brakes are relined. sure it is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirement.

Before Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Gasoline

Before using an oxygenated fuel, try METHANOL (methyl or wood Driving in Foreign Countries to confirm the fuel's contents. Some alcohol) Using any type of leaded gasoline in states/provinces require this You may use gasoline containing up your Honda will affect performance information to be posted on the to 5% methanol by volume as long as and damage its emission controls. pump. it also contains cosolvents and Unleaded gasoline may not be corrosion inhibitors to protect the available in other countries. If you The following are the EPA-approved fuel system. Gasoline containing are planning to take your car outside percentages of oxygenates: more than 5% methanol by volume the U.S. or Canada, write to Honda at may cause starting and/or perform- the address shown for information ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) ance problems. It may also damage about any modifications your car You may use gasoline containing up metal, rubber and plastic parts of may need. Be sure to include the to 10% ethanol by volume. Gasoline your fuel system. year and model of your car. containing ethanol may be marketed under the name "Gasohol." If you notice any undesirable U.S. Owners: operating symptoms, try another American Honda Motor Co., Inc. MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl service station or switch to another Consumer Affairs Ether) brand of gasoline. 1919 Torrance Blvd. You may use gasoline containing up Torrance, CA 90501-2746 to 15% MTBE by volume. Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use of Canadian Owners: an oxygenated fuel containing more Honda Canada Inc. than the percentages of oxygenates 715 Milner Ave. given above are not covered under Scarborough, Ontario M1B 2K8 warranty.

Before Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Service Station Procedures

Filling the Fuel Tank 3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as Pull Gasoline is highly flammable pressure inside the tank escapes. and explosive. You can be Place the fuel fill cap on the inside burned or seriously injured of the door as shown. when handling fuel. 4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel Stop the engine and keep pump automatically clicks off. Do heat, sparks, and flame away. not try to "top off" the tank, leave Handle fuel only outdoors. some room for the fuel to expand Wipe up spills immediately. with temperature changes.

5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on, tighten it until it clicks more than 1. The fuel fill is on the driver's side twice. of the car. Park with that side closest to the service station 6. Push the fuel fill door until it pumps. latches.

2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling on the handle to the left of the driver's seat.

FUEL FILL CAP

Before Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Service Station Procedures

Opening the Hood

LATCH

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE CLIP SUPPORT ROD 1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set 2. Standing in front of the car, put 3. Pull the support rod out of its clip the parking brake. Pull the hood your fingers under the front edge and insert the end into the hole on release handle, located under the of the hood to the right of center. the left side of the hood. left lower corner of the dashboard. Slide your hand to the left until The hood will pop up slightly. you feel the hood latch handle. To close the hood, lift it up slightly to Push this handle to the left until it remove the support rod from the releases the hood. Lift the hood. hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot above the fender, then let it drop.

CONTINUED

Before Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Service Station Procedures

Oil Check

DIPSTICK Check the engine oil level every time 2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean 3. Insert it all the way back in its tube. you fill the car with fuel. Wait at least cloth or paper towel. two minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1. Remove the dipstick (orange handle).

Before Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Service Station Procedures

Engine Coolant Check Refer to Periodic Checks on page 136 for information on checking other items in your Honda.

MAX MIN

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK RESERVE TANK 4. Remove it again and check the Look at the coolant level in the level. It should be between the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is upper and lower marks. between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding If it is near or below the lower mark, Engine Coolant on page 144 for see page 138 for information on the information on adding the proper proper oil and how to add it. coolant.

Before Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Fuel Economy

The condition of your car and your Driving Habits A cold engine uses more fuel than a driving habits are the two most You can improve fuel economy by warm engine. It is not necessary to important things that affect the fuel driving moderately. Rapid acceler- "warm-up" a cold engine by letting it mileage you get. ation, abrupt cornering, and hard idle for a long time. You can drive braking use more fuel. away in about a minute, no matter Vehicle Condition how cold it is outside. The engine Always maintain your car according Always drive in the highest gear that will warm up faster, and you get to the maintenance schedule. This allows the engine to run and acceler- better fuel economy. To cut down on will keep it in top operating condition. ate smoothly. the number of "cold starts," try to combine several short trips into one. An important part of that mainte- Depending on traffic conditions, try nance is the Periodic Checks (see to maintain a constant speed. Every The air conditioning puts an extra page 136). For example an under- time you slow down and speed up, load on the engine which makes it inflated tire causes more "rolling your car uses extra fuel. Use the use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to resistance," which uses fuel. It also cruise control, when appropriate, to cut down on air conditioning use. wears out faster, so check the tire increase fuel economy. Use the flow-through ventilation pressure at least monthly. In winter, when the outside air temperature is the build-up of snow on your car's moderate. underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

Before Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Accessories

Your Honda dealer has many acces- Some non-Honda accessories you Electronic communications equip- sories available to personalize your can buy in the "aftermarket" are ment, such as cellular telephones car. Some of these are audio systems, designed for universal applications. and two-way radios are regulated by alloy wheels, air conditioning, and Although they may fit your Honda, the FCC (DOC in Canada) and color-coordinated carpet floor mats. they may not be within factory should not interfere with your car's All Genuine Honda Accessories have specifications. For example, after- systems. Improper installation, or been approved by our engineers for market wheels may not meet Honda's using electrical equipment not in- installation and use on your car, and specifications for width and offset. tended for mobile use may interfere are covered by warranty. They could cause suspension with your car's operation. If you want problems which would not be to install a cellular telephone, other covered by your warranty. Im- mobile communications equipment properly-designed accessories can or even add-on stereo amplifiers, adversely affect your car's handling please discuss it first with your and stability. Honda dealer.

Your car has several computer- In many cases, improper installation controlled systems, including the is the real cause of problems with SRS system, the engine's fuel aftermarket accessories. Have these injection, and the Anti-lock brake accessories installed by qualified system. Strong electronic inter- technicians who are familiar with ference can affect their operation. your Honda. If possible, have your Honda dealer inspect the final installation.

Before Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Loading Cargo

The maximum load you can carry in To figure out how much cargo you Where you store this cargo, and how your Honda is 325 kg (700 Ibs). It can carry: well you secure it, are just as includes the total weight of all important as how much it weighs. passengers and their belongings, any Figure the total "occupant weight" Make sure you load cargo so it will accessories, and the tongue weight you will be transporting. To do this, not shift while driving. When storing of a trailer. This 325 kg (700 Ibs) multiply the number of people items in the trunk, place them as far figure is shown as the Vehicle (driver and all passengers) by 70 forward as possible. You could store Capacity Weight on the tire infor- kg (150 Ibs). additional items on the floor behind mation label attached to the driver's Subtract this number from the the front seats. Make sure they doorjamb. Vehicle Capacity Weight (325 kg/ cannot roll under the front seat and 700 Ibs). interfere with the pedals. If you are towing a trailer, subtract the tongue weight. See Towing a If you must carry large objects that Trailer on page 122. prevent you from closing the trunk lid, be aware that exhaust gas can This final number is the total weight enter the interior. See Carbon of cargo you can load in or on the car. Monoxide Hazard on page 25. With four occupants (driver and three passengers), the maximum Never place items on the shelf recommended weight for cargo is 45 behind the back seat. Those items kg (100 Ibs). can fly forward and injure you or your passengers if you brake hard or are involved in a collision.

Before Driving Main Menu ▲ ▼ Driving

This section gives you tips on Preparing to Drive...... 108 starting the engine under various Starting the Engine...... 109 conditions, and how to operate the 5-speed Manual manual and automatic transmissions. Transmission...... 109 It also includes important infor- Automatic mation on your car's braking system Transmission...... 109 and facts you need if you are plan- Starting in Cold Weather ning to tow a trailer. at High Altitude...... 110 5-speed Manual Transmission..... 111 Recommended Shift Points...... 111 Maximum Speeds...... 112 Automatic Transmission...... 113 Shift Lever Positions...... 113 Maximum Speeds...... 115 Shift Lock Release...... 116 The Braking System...... 117 Brake Wear Indicators...... 117 Brake System Design...... 117 Anti-lock Brakes...... 118 Four Wheel Steering...... 119 Driving in Bad Weather...... 120 Towing a Trailer...... 122

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checks 5. Check the adjustment of the seat 10. Turn the ignition ON (II). Check and adjustments every day before (see page 53). the indicator lights in the instru- you drive your car. ment panel. 6. Check the adjustment of the 1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, inside and outside mirrors (see 11. Start the engine (see page 109). and outside lights are clean and page 61). unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, 12. Check the gauges and indicator or ice. 7. Check the adjustment of the lights in the instrument panel (see steering wheel (see page 45). page 31). 2. Check that the hood and trunk are fully closed. 8. Make sure the doors are securely closed and locked. 3. Visually check the tires. If a tire looks low, use a gauge to check its 9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that pressure. your passengers have fastened their seat belts (see page 7). 4. Check that any items you may be carrying with you inside are stored properly or fastened down securely.

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Starting the Engine

5-speed Manual Transmission 5. If the engine does not start within Automatic Transmission 1. Apply the parking brake. 15 seconds, or starts but stalls 1. Apply the parking brake. right away, repeat step 4 with the 2. In cold weather, turn off all accelerator pedal pressed half-way 2. In cold weather, turn off all electrical accessories to reduce down. If the engine starts, release electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery. pressure on the accelerator pedal the drain on the battery. so the engine does not race. 3. Push the clutch pedal down all the 3. Make sure the shift lever is in way. START (III) does not 6. If the engine still does not start, Park. Press on the brake pedal. function unless the clutch pedal is press the accelerator pedal all the depressed. way down and hold it there while 4. Without touching the accelerator starting in order to clear flooding. pedal, turn the ignition key to the 4. Without touching the accelerator As before, keep the ignition key in START (III) position. If the engine pedal, turn the ignition key to the the START (III) position for no does not start right away, do not START (III) position. If the engine more than 15 seconds. Return to hold the key in START (III) for does not start right away, do not step 5 if the engine does not start. more than 15 seconds at a time. hold the key in START (III) for If it starts, lift your foot off the Pause for at least 10 seconds more than 15 seconds at a time. accelerator pedal so the engine before trying again. Pause for at least 10 seconds does not race. before trying again.

CONTINUED

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Starting the Engine

5. If the engine does not start within Starting in Cold Weather at High 3. If the engine fails to start in step 2, 15 seconds, or starts but stalls Altitude (Above 2,400 meters/ push the accelerator pedal to the right away, repeat step 4 with the 8,000 feet) floor and hold it there while you accelerator pedal pressed half-way An engine is harder to start in cold try to start the engine for no more down. If the engine starts, release weather. The thinner air found at than 15 seconds. If the engine pressure on the accelerator pedal high altitude above 2,400 meters does not start, return to step 2. so the engine does not race. (8,000 feet) adds to the problem. Use the following procedure: 6. If the engine still does not start, press the accelerator pedal all the 1. Turn off all electrical accessories way down and hold it there while to reduce the drain on the battery. starting in order to clear flooding. As before, keep the ignition key in 2. Push the accelerator pedal half- the START (III) position for no way to the floor and hold it there more than 15 seconds. Return to while starting the engine. Do not step 5 if the engine does not start. hold the ignition key in START If it starts, lift your foot off the (III) for more than 15 seconds. accelerator pedal so the engine When the engine starts, release does not race. the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up and smooths out.

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ 5-speed Manual Transmission

Come to a full stop before you shift into reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into Rapid slowing or speeding-up reverse with the car moving. can cause loss of control on slippery surfaces. If you crash, You can get extra braking from the you can be injured. engine when slowing down by shifting to a lower gear. This extra Use extra care when driving on braking can help you maintain a safe slippery surfaces. speed and prevent your brakes from overheating while going down a Recommended Shift Points steep hill. Before downshifting, Drive in the highest gear that lets make sure engine speed will not go the engine run and accelerate The manual transmission is syn- into the tachometer's red zone in the smoothly. This will give you the best chronized in all forward gears for lower gear. Refer to the Maximum fuel economy and effective emis- smooth operation. It has a lockout so Speeds chart. sions control. The following shift you cannot shift directly from Fifth points are recommended: to Reverse. When shifting up or down, make sure you push the clutch pedal down all the way, shift to the next gear, and let the pedal up gradually. When you are not shifting, do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal. This can cause your clutch to wear out faster. CONTINUED

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ 5-speed Manual Transmission

Maximum Speeds (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) The speeds in this table are the maximums for the given gears. If you exceed these speeds, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer's red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine's computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone. (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) (US: S, Canada: S)

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Automatic Transmission

Your Honda's transmission has four Shift Lever Positions forward speeds, and is electronically controlled for smoother shifting. It also has a "lock-up" torque converter for better fuel economy. You may feel what seems like another shift when the converter locks. LEADED LY

SHIFT LEVER

This display is on the instrument The shift lever has seven positions. panel. It shows you the position of It must be in Park or Neutral to start the shift lever. It also indicates a the engine. When you are stopped in possible problem in the transmission D4, D3, 2, 1, N or R, press firmly on if the "D4" indicator light flashes. the brake pedal and keep your foot off the accelerator pedal.

CONTINUED

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Automatic Transmission

Reverse (R) — To shift to Reverse from Park, see the explanation under Park. To shift to Reverse from Neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift. Press the release button before shifting into Reverse from Neutral.

Neutral (N) — Use Neutral if you need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to Park posi- tion if you need to leave the car for any reason. Press on the brake pedal If you have done all of the above and when you are moving the shift lever Park (P) — This position mechani- still cannot move the lever out of from Neutral to another gear. cally locks the transmission. Use Park, see Shift Lock Release on page Park whenever you are turning off or 116. Drive (D4) — Use this position for starting the engine. To shift out of your normal driving. The transmis- Park, you must press on the brake You must also press the release sion automatically selects a suitable pedal and have your foot off the button to shift into Park. To avoid gear for your speed and acceleration. accelerator pedal. Press the release transmission damage, come to a You may notice the transmission button on the side of the shift lever complete stop before shifting into shifting up at higher speeds when to move it. Park. The shift lever must be in Park the engine is cold. This helps the before you can remove the key from engine warm up faster. the ignition switch.

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Automatic Transmission

Drive (D3) — This position is similar gear when starting out on a slippery Maximum Speeds to D4, except only the first three surface or in deep snow. It will help The speeds in this table are the gears are selected. Use D3 to provide reduce wheelspin. maximums for the given position. If engine braking when going down a you exceed these speeds, the engine steep hill. D3 can also keep the Whenever you move the shift lever speed will enter into the tachometer's transmission from cycling between to a lower gear, the transmission red zone. If this occurs, you will feel third and fourth gears in stop-and-go downshifts only if the engine's the engine cut in and out. This is driving. redline will not be exceeded in the caused by a limiter in the engine's lower gear. computer controls. The engine will For faster acceleration when in D3 or run normally when you reduce the D4, you can get the transmission to First (1) — To shift from Second to RPM below the red zone. automatically downshift by pushing First, press the release button on the the accelerator pedal to the floor. side of the shift lever. With the lever (US: S, Canada: S) The transmission will shift down one in this position, the transmission or two gears, depending on your locks in First gear. By upshifting and speed. downshifting through 1, 2, D3 and D4, you can operate this transmission Second (2) — To shift to Second, much like a manual transmission press the release button on the side without a clutch pedal. of the shift lever. This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop. Second gives you more power when climbing, and increased engine braking when going down steep hills. Use second CONTINUED

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Automatic Transmission

(US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) Shift Lock Release This allows you to move the shift lever out of Park if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal and pressing the release button does not work. RELEASE BUTTON 1. Set the Parking brake.

2. Remove the key from the ignition switch. SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT 3. Insert the key in the Shift Lock Release slot next to the shift lever. 5. Remove the key from the Shift Lock Release slot. Depress the 4. Push down on the key while you brake pedal and restart the engine. press the release button and move the shift lever out of Park to If you need to use the Shift Lock Neutral. Release, it could mean your car is developing a problem. Have the car checked by your Honda dealer.

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ The Braking System

Your Honda is equipped with disc Check your brakes after driving Brake System Design brakes at all four wheels. The through deep water. Apply the The hydraulic system that operates braking system is power-assisted to brakes moderately to see if they feel the brakes has two separate circuits. reduce the effort needed on the normal. If not, apply them gently and Each circuit works diagonally across brake pedal. frequently until they do. Since a the car (the left-front brake is longer distance is needed to stop connected with the right-rear brake, Put your foot on the brake pedal only with wet brakes, be extra cautious etc.). If one circuit should develop a when you intend to brake. Resting and alert in your driving. problem, you will still have braking your foot on the pedal keeps the at two wheels. brakes applied lightly, causing them Brake Wear Indicators to build up heat. Heat build-up can All four brakes have audible brake reduce how well your brakes work. It wear indicators. also keeps your brake lights on all When the brake pads need replacing, the time, confusing drivers behind you will hear a distinctive metallic you. "screeching" sound when you apply Front the brakes. If you do not have the Constant application of the brakes brake pads replaced, they will begin when going down a long hill builds screeching all the time. up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the Your brakes may sometimes squeal brakes by downshifting to a lower or squeak when you apply them gear and taking your foot off the lightly. Do not confuse this with the accelerator pedal. brake wear indicators. They make a very audible "screeching".

CONTINUED

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ The Braking System

If this happens, you will immediately Anti-lock Brakes The ABS is always "On". It requires notice that the brake pedal goes All models except the S model have no special effort or driving technique. down much farther and you need to an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as You will feel a pulsation in the brake press on it much harder. A much standard equipment. pedal when the ABS activates. longer distance will be needed to stop the car. ABS helps you maintain steering Activation varies with the amount of control. It does this by helping you to traction your tires have. On dry Slow the car by downshifting to a prevent the wheels from locking up pavement, you will need to press on lower gear and removing your foot and skidding. the brake pedal very hard before you from the accelerator pedal. Pull to feel the pedal pulsation that means the side of the road as soon as it is the ABS has activated. However, you safe. Because of the longer stopping may feel the ABS activate immedi- distance needed, brake system ately if you are trying to stop on failure is very hazardous. It is best to snow or ice. Under all conditions, the have your car towed, but if you must ABS is helping to prevent the wheels drive the car in this condition, be from locking so you can retain extremely cautious. Have your car steering control. You should con- repaired as soon as possible. tinue to press on the brake pedal with the same force.

You may feel a slight movement of the brake pedal just after you start the engine. This is the ABS working.

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ The Braking System, Four Wheel Steering

ABS INDICATOR* A car with ABS may require a longer Four Wheel Steering distance to stop on loose or uneven The Canadian SR 4WS model surfaces than an equivalent car with- features an electronically controlled out Anti-lock. The ABS cannot make system that steers the rear wheels as up for road conditions or bad judg- you steer the front wheels. ment. It is still your responsibility to It uses the car's speed, angle of the drive at reasonable speeds for front wheels, and the rate that you weather and traffic conditions, and turn the steering wheel to steer the to leave a margin of safety. rear wheels in the appropriate direction and angle. For a technical description of the * U.S. indicator shown ABS hardware, refer to page 216. The ABS is self-checking. If anything goes wrong, the ABS indicator on the instrument panel comes on (see page 34). This means the Anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system, providing normal stopping ability. You should have the dealer inspect your car as soon as possible.

CONTINUED

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Four Wheel Steering, Driving in Bad Weather

At very slow speeds, the rear wheels The rear wheels return to the Driving in Bad Weather steer in the opposite direction to the straight ahead position when you front wheels. This helps in turn off the engine. They also return maneuvers such as parallel parking to straight ahead if you sit still for and U-turns. more than two minutes with the engine running. They return to At higher speeds, the rear wheels steering mode as soon as you move first steer in the same direction as the steering wheel or start to drive the front wheels. This aids with away. changing lanes. As you turn the steering wheel more, the rear wheels The 4WS system is self-checking. If return to straight ahead and then it detects a problem anywhere in the steer in the opposite direction to the system, it turns on the 4WS indicator front wheels. This gives improved on the instrument panel (see page handling when going around curves 35) and points the rear wheels Rain, fog, and snow conditions re- at highway speeds. straight ahead. Your car will then quire a different driving technique drive like a conventional car without because of reduced traction and 4WS. visibility. Keep your car well- maintained and exercise greater caution when you need to drive in bad weather. The cruise control should not be used in these condi- tions.

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Driving in Bad Weather

Driving Technique — Always drive Visibility — Being able to see Traction — Check your tires slower than you would in dry clearly in all directions and being frequently for wear and proper weather. It takes your car longer to visible to other drivers are important pressure. Both are important in react, even in conditions that may in all weather conditions. This is preventing "hydroplaning" (loss of seem just barely damp. Apply more difficult in bad weather. To be traction on a wet surface). In the smooth, even pressure to all the seen more clearly during daylight winter, mount snow tires on all four controls. Abrupt steering wheel hours, turn on your headlights. wheels for the best handling. movements or sudden, hard appli- cation of the brakes can cause loss of Inspect your windshield wipers and Watch road conditions carefully, control in wet weather. Be extra washers frequently. Keep the wind- they can change from moment to cautious for the first few miles of shield washer reservoir full of the moment. Wet leaves can be as slip- driving while you adjust to the proper fluid. Have the windshield pery as ice. "Clear" roads can have change in driving conditions. This is wiper blades replaced if they start to patches of ice. Driving conditions especially true in snow. A person can streak the windshield or leave parts can be very hazardous when the forget some snow-driving techniques unwiped. Use the defrosters and air outside temperature is near freezing. during the summer months. Practice conditioning to keep the windows The road surface can become is needed to relearn those skills. from fogging up on the inside (see covered with areas of water puddles page 78). mixed with areas of ice, so your Exercise extra caution when driving traction can change without warning. in rain after a long dry spell. After months of dry weather, the first Be careful when downshifting. If rains bring oil to the surface of the traction is low, you can lock up the roadway, making it slippery. drive wheels for a moment and cause a skid.

CONTINUED

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer

Towing a Trailer The total weight of the trailer and Your Honda is designed primarily to everything loaded in it must not carry passengers and their cargo. exceed 450 kg (1,000 Ibs). You can use it to tow a trailer if you carefully observe some general rules. The "tongue load" should never exceed 50 kg (110 Ibs). This is the amount of weight the trailer puts on the hitch when it is fully-loaded. As a rule of thumb, the tongue load should be 10% of the total trailer package. For example, if the trailer and its load weigh 225 kg (500 Ibs), the tongue load should be 22.5 kg (50 Ibs). Adjust Be very cautious when passing, or the trailer's cargo to change the being passed by other vehicles. The tongue load. Start by putting spray from large vehicles reduces approximately 60% of the cargo your visibility, and the wind buffeting toward the front and 40% toward can cause you to lose control. the rear. Never load the trailer so the back is heavier than the front. This takes weight off your car's rear axle and reduces traction.

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Towing a Trailer

The combined weight of the car, Trailer Hitches all passengers and their luggage, Your Honda dealer, or the Honda and tongue load must not exceed Improperly loading your car and Customer Relations Zone Office, can the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. trailer can seriously affect its give you advice on the proper hitch The GVWR is printed on the steering and braking for your car. Never use a hitch that Certification label attached to the performance, causing a crash mounts only to the rear bumper. The driver's doorjamb (see page 212). in which you can be seriously bumper is not designed to handle injured. that type of load. The hitch should The combined weight of the car, bolt to the underbody of the car and all passengers and their luggage, Check the loading of your car distribute the load over a wide area. and tongue load also must not and trailer carefully before Always have a trailer hitch installed exceed the Gross Axle Weight starting to drive. by a qualified technician. Rating. The GAWR is also shown on the Certification label. It tells NOTICE you the maximum load for the The best way to confirm that your front and rear axles. It is possible total towing package is within these A trailer hitch that is not adequate for that your towing package does not specifications is to get it weighed. the size of the trailer, or a hitch that is exceed the GVWR but does Load the car and trailer as you improperly installed, can cause damage exceed the GAWR. Improper normally would while towing, and to the underside of your car. trailer loading, and/or too much take them to a public scale. Have luggage in the trunk can overload them check the total weight and the the rear axle. Redistribute the load weight at each axle, then compare and check the axle weights again. them to the specifications.

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Towing a Trailer

Mirrors Connecting the Trailer Before Starting Out Many states and provinces have laws Most trailers that have a gross As you are preparing to tow your requiring special outside mirrors weight of 450 kg (1,000 Ibs) do not trailer, do the following: when you are towing a trailer. Check have their own braking system. If the laws in your area. You may want you are thinking of getting a trailer Measure the trailer's tongue load. to install mirrors, even if they are not that does have brakes, make sure You can do this with a bathroom required. Hook up the trailer and see they are electrically-operated. There scale. how much it obscures your ability to are no provisions in your car to tap Verify that the hitch and safety see behind you with the standard into its hydraulic braking system. chain are securely fastened. mirrors. If you cannot see directly Any attempt to attach the trailer's Check the condition and air behind you, or have a large blind brakes to your car's hydraulic pressure of all tires on the trailer spot next to the trailer or the car, system, no matter how successful it and your car. Low tire pressure you should install mirrors intended may seem, will lower braking can seriously affect the handling. for towing. effectiveness and create a potential Also check the spare tire. hazard. With everything loaded and the trailer connected, check that the Always use a safety chain when rear of the car is not sagging. If so, towing a trailer. Connect the safety redistribute the load in the car. chain securely at both ends. Make Check that all lights on the car are sure the chain crosses under the working properly. tongue so it will catch the trailer if it becomes unhitched. Leave enough slack in the chain so it can't bind in a sharp turn. Do not let it drag on the ground.

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Towing a Trailer

Towing Safety The car/trailer combination is more This extra load is magnified when Your car will not stop as quickly with affected by crosswinds and buffeting. you are driving in hilly terrain. a trailer in tow. Leave extra distance When being passed by a large Watch the temperature gauge between your car and other vehicles. vehicle, keep a constant speed and closely when climbing hills. If it gets Avoid braking or turning suddenly. steer straight ahead. If there is too near the hot area, turn off the air This could cause the trailer to much wind buffeting, slow down to conditioning (if it is on). If this does jackknife or possibly turn over. get out of the other vehicle's air not reduce the heat, it may be turbulence. necessary to pull to the side of the Keep in mind that your total vehicle road and wait for the engine to cool. is now much longer. Leave more Towing a trailer puts an extra load If the automatic transmission shifts room when making turns. The trailer on your car. You should have your frequently between 3rd and 4th tracks a smaller arc than the car and car serviced according to the gears, put it in D3. This will help can hit or run over something that "Maintenance schedule under severe prevent the transmission from the car misses. When passing driving conditions" on page 133. overheating. Help keep the brakes another vehicle, make sure the from overheating by shifting to a trailer is clear before changing lanes. lower gear when going downhill. If you have to stop while going uphill, do not hold the car in place by pressing on the accelerator. This can cause the automatic transmission to overheat. Use the parking brake or footbrake.

CONTINUED

Driving Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Towing a Trailer

When parking your car and trailer, especially on a hill, be sure to follow all the normal precautions. Turn your front wheels into the curb, set the parking brake firmly, and put the transmission in 1st or Reverse (manual) or Park (automatic). In addition, place wheel chocks at each of the trailer's tires.

Backing up with a trailer is difficult and takes practice. Drive slowly, make small movements with the steering wheel, and have someone stand outside to guide you. Grip the steering wheel on the bottom (rather than the usual position near the top). Move your hand to the left to get the trailer to move to the left, and right to move the trailer right.

Driving Main Menu ▲ ▼ Maintenance

This section explains why it is Maintenance Safety...... 128 Clutch System...... 153 important to keep your car well Important Safety Precautions.. 129 Power Steering...... 153 maintained and to follow basic Maintenance Schedule...... 130 Air Cleaner...... 154 maintenance safety precautions. Maintenance Record...... 134 Fuel Filter...... 155 Periodic Checks...... 136 Spark Plugs...... 155 This section also includes Fluid Locations...... 137 Replacement...... 155 Maintenance Schedules for normal Engine Oil...... 138 Specification...... 157 driving and severe driving conditions, Checking Engine Oil...... 138 Battery...... 157 a Maintenance Record, and Adding...... 138 Windshield Wipers...... 160 instructions for simple maintenance Recommended Oil...... 139 Air Conditioning...... 162 tasks you may want to take care of Additives...... 140 Drive Belts...... 163 yourself. Oil and Filter Changes...... 141 Tires...... 163 Cooling System...... 144 Inflation...... 164 If you have the skills and tools Checking the Engine Coolant Inspection...... 165 required to perform more complex Level...... 144 Maintenance...... 165 maintenance tasks on your Honda, Adding Engine Coolant...... 144 Tire Rotation...... 166 you may want to purchase the Replacing Engine Coolant...... 146 Replacing Tires and Wheels.... 166 Service Manual. See page 231 for Windshield Washers...... 148 Wheels and Tires...... 167 information on how to obtain a copy, Transmission Oil...... 149 Winter Driving...... 167 or see your Honda dealer. Automatic Snow Tires...... 168 Transmission...... 149 Tire Chains...... 168 5-speed Manual Lights...... 169 Transmission...... 150 Replacing Bulbs...... 169 Brake and Clutch Fluid...... 151 Storing Your Car...... 179 Brake System...... 151 Anti-lock Brake System...... 152

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Maintenance Safety

Regularly maintaining your car is the This section includes instructions for Some of the most important safety best way to protect your investment. simple maintenance tasks, such as precautions are given in the next Proper maintenance is essential to checking and adding oil. Any service page. However, we cannot warn you your safety and the safety of your items not detailed in this section of every conceivable hazard that can passengers. It will also reward you should be performed by a Honda arise in performing maintenance. with more economical, trouble-free technician or other qualified Only you can decide whether or not driving and help reduce air pollution. mechanic. you should perform a given task.

Improperly maintaining this car Failure to properly follow or failing to correct a problem maintenance instructions and before driving can cause a precautions can cause you to crash in which you can be be seriously hurt or killed. seriously hurt or killed. Always follow the procedures Always follow the inspection and precautions in this owner's and maintenance manual. recommendations and schedules in this owner's manual.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Maintenance Safety

Important Safety Precautions Read the instructions before you Before you begin any maintenance, begin, and make sure you have the make sure your car is parked on tools and skills required. level ground and that the parking brake is on. Also, be sure the engine To reduce the possibility of fire or is off. This will help to eliminate explosion, be careful when working several potential hazards: around gasoline or batteries. Use a nonflammable solvent, not gasoline, Carbon monoxide poisoning to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, from engine exhaust. Be sure sparks, and flames away from the there is adequate ventilation battery and all fuel-related parts. whenever you operate the engine. You should wear eye protection and Burns from hot parts. Let the protective clothing when working engine and exhaust system cool near the battery or when using before touching any parts. compressed air.

Injury from moving parts. Do not run the engine unless instructed to do so.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Maintenance Schedule

The Maintenance Schedule specifies The services and time or distance Which Schedule to Follow: how often you should have your car intervals shown in the maintenance Service your car according to the serviced and what things need schedule assume you will use your time and mileage periods on one of attention. It is essential that you have car as normal transportation. You the Maintenance Schedules on pages your car serviced as scheduled to should: 132 and 133. Select the schedule for retain its high level of safety, "Severe Conditions" if most of your dependability, and emission control Avoid exceeding your car's load driving is done under one or more of performance. limit. This puts excess stress on the conditions listed on that page. the engine, brakes, and many Otherwise, follow the schedule for other parts of your car. The load "Normal Conditions." limit is shown on the label on the driver's door jamb.

Operate your car on reasonable roads within the legal speed limit.

Drive your car regularly over a distance of several kilometers (miles).

Always use unleaded gasoline with the proper octane (see page 98).

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Maintenance Schedule

Your authorized Honda dealer We recommend the use of Genuine According to state and federal knows your car best and can provide Honda parts and fluids whenever you regulations, failure to perform competent, efficient service. have maintenance done. These are maintenance on the items marked However, service at a dealer is not manufactured to the same high- with an asterisk (*) will not void your mandatory to keep your warranties quality standards as the original emissions warranties. However, in effect. Maintenance may be done components, so you can be confident Honda recommends that all by any qualified service facility or of their perfomance and durability. maintenance services be performed person who is skilled in this type of at the recommended time or mileage automotive service. Keep all the U.S. Cars: period to ensure long-term reliability. receipts as proof of completion, and Maintenance, replacement or have the person who does the work repair of emission control devices fill out the Maintenance Record. and systems may be done by any Check your warranty booklet for automotive repair establishment more information. or individual using parts that are "certified" to EPA standards.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Maintenance Schedule (Normal Conditions)

Follow the Normal Maintenance Schedule if the severe driving conditions specified in the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule on the next page do not apply.

For Canadian Owners: This Maintenance Schedule outlines the minimum required maintenance that you should perform to ensure the trouble- free operation of your vehicle. Due to regional and climatic differences, some additional servicing may be required. Please consult your warranty handbook for a more detailed description.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Maintenance Schedule (Severe Conditions)

Follow the Severe Maintenance Schedule if you drive your vehicle MAINLY under one or more of the following conditions:

Driving less than 8 km (5 miles) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 16 km (10 miles) per trip. Driving in extremely hot [over 90°F (32°C)] conditions. Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving. Trailer towing, driving with a car-top carrier, or driving in mountainous conditions. Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads.

NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY drive under a "severe" condition, you should follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule on the previous page.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Required Maintenance Record

Have your servicing dealer record all Required Maintenance below. Keep receipts for all work done on your car.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Non-Scheduled Maintenance Record

Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non-scheduled maintenance on this page (see page 133).

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Periodic Checks

You should check the following Engine oil level — Check every Tires — Check the tire pressure items at the specified intervals. If time you fill the fuel tank. See monthly. Examine the tread for you are unsure of how to perform page 102. wear and foreign objects. See page any check, turn to the page given. 164. Engine coolant level — Check the radiator reserve tank every time Battery — Check its condition and you fill the fuel tank. See page 103. the terminals for corrosion monthly. See page 157. Windshield washer fluid — Check the level in the reservoir monthly. Air conditioning — Check its If weather conditions cause you to operation weekly. See page 162. use the washers frequently, check the reservoir each time you stop Lights — Check the operation of for fuel. See page 148. the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, Automatic transmission — Check turn signals, brake lights, and the fluid level monthly. See page license plate lights monthly. See 149. page 169.

Brakes, clutch and power steering — Check the fluid level monthly. See page 151.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Fluid Locations

BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap)

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE RESERVOIR (5-M/T only) (Gray cap) CLUTCH FLUID (Gray cap)

ENGINE OIL COOLANT FILL CAP RESERVOIR

POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop) WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop)

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Engine Oil

Checking Engine Oil Adding

DIPSTICK ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

Check the engine oil a couple of 3. Pull it out again and look at the oil To add oil, unscrew and remove the minutes after shutting off the engine. level at the end of the dipstick. If it engine oil fill cap on top of the valve This will allow the oil to drain down is between the upper and lower cover. Pour in the oil, and replace the to the bottom of the engine. Make marks, the level is correct. Add oil engine oil fill cap. Tighten it securely. sure the car is parked on level if the level is at or below the lower Wait a few minutes and recheck the ground. mark. oil level. Do not fill above the upper mark; you could damage the engine. 1. Pull out the dipstick (orange loop) and wipe it with a cloth or paper towel.

2. Insert it all the way back in its tube.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Engine Oil

Recommended Oil The API Service label also tells you The oil container may also display Oil is a major contributor to your the service classification of the oil. the API Certification mark shown engine's performance and longevity. Always use an oil that says "API below. Make sure it says "For Always use a premium-grade deter- Service SG or SH." This service Gasoline Engines." gent oil. rating may also include other designations, such as CD. These You can determine an oil's SAE additional classifications are not a viscosity and Service Classification problem, as long as the label also from the API Service label on the oil carries the SG or SH classification. container. An oil that is only classified SF is not recommended. A fuel-efficient oil is recommended for your Honda. This is shown on the API Service label by the words "Energy Conserving II." This oil is formulated to help your engine use API CERTIFICATION MARK less fuel.

API SERVICE LABEL

* * : SG or SH CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Engine Oil

The SAE numbers tell you the oil's (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) Additives viscosity or weight. Select the oil for Your Honda does not need any oil your car according to this chart. additives. Purchasing additives for the engine or transmission will not (Except US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) increase your car's performance or longevity. It only increases the cost of operating your car.

Ambient Temperature

An oil with a viscosity of 10W-30 is Ambient Temperature preferred for improved fuel economy and year-round protection in your Honda. You may use a 5W-30 oil if An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 is the climate in your area is within the preferred for improved fuel economy temperature range shown on the and year-round protection in your chart. Honda. You may use a 10W-30 oil if the temperature in your area never goes below20°F(—7°C).

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Engine Oil

Oil and Filter Changes Changing the oil and filter requires Always change the oil and filter special tools and access from according to the time and distance underneath the car. The car should recommendations in the mainte- be raised on a service station-type nance schedule. The oil and filter hydraulic lift for this service. Unless collect contaminants that can dam- you have the knowledge and proper age your engine if they are not equipment, you should have this removed regularly. maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.

1. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, OIL DRAIN BOLT WASHER then shut it off. 2. Open the hood and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Engine Oil

OIL FILTER 4. Install a new oil filter according to 7. Replace the engine oil fill cap. instructions that come with it. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator light should go out within 5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt, five seconds. If it does not, turn off then reinstall the drain bolt. the engine and reinspect your Tighten it to: work. 40 N.m (4.0 kg-m , 29 Ib-ft) 8. Let the engine run for several 6. Refill the engine with the recom- minutes and check the drain bolt mended oil. and oil filter for leaks. Engine oil change capacity (including filter): (US: S, Canada: S) 3. Remove the oil filter and let the 3.8 l (4.0 US qt, 3.3 Imp qt) remaining oil drain. A special (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) wrench (available from your 4.3 l (4.5 US qt, 3.8 Imp qt) Honda dealer) is required to (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) remove the filter. 4.8 l (5.1 US qt, 4.2 Imp qt)

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Engine Oil

9. Turn off the engine, let it sit for The oil and filter should be changed several minutes, then check the oil every 6 months or 12,000 km (7,500 level. If necessary, add oil to bring miles), whichever comes first. Under the level to the upper mark on the severe driving conditions, they dipstick. should be changed every 3 months or 6,000 km (3,750 miles). See page NOTICE 133 for a description of severe driving conditions. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Cooling System

Checking the Engine Coolant Always use Genuine Honda Anti- Adding Engine Coolant Level freeze/Coolant. The cooling system If the reserve tank is completely contains many aluminum compo- empty, you should also check the nents which can corrode if an coolant level in the radiator. improper antifreeze is used. Some antifreeze, even though labeled as safe for aluminum parts, may not MAX provide adequate protection. Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can MIN cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and RESERVE TANK radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap. Check the level of the engine coolant by looking at the radiator reserve tank next to the battery. If the level is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. This coolant should always be a mixture of 50% antifreeze and 50% water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Cooling System

RADIATOR CAP 3. Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

4. The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low.

5. Put the radiator cap back on. Tighten it fully.

RESERVE TANK

1. Make sure the engine and 6. Pour coolant into the reserve tank. radiator are cool. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back 2. Turn the radiator cap counter- on the reserve tank. clockwise, without pressing down on it, until it stops. This relieves any pressure remaining in the cooling system.

CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Cooling System

Do not add any rust inhibitors or DRAIN other additives to your car's cooling PLUG system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine compo- DRAIN BOLT nents.

Replacing Engine Coolant The cooling system should be completely drained and refilled with new coolant according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. Only use recommended antifreeze. 1. Slide the heater temperature 3. Loosen the drain plug on the Draining the coolant requires access control lever to maximum heat. bottom of the radiator. The to the underside of the car. Unless Open the hood. Make sure the coolant will drain through the you have the tools and knowledge, engine and radiator are cool to the splash guard. Remove the drain you should have this maintenance touch. bolt from the engine block. done by a skilled mechanic. 2. Remove the radiator cap.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Cooling System

RESERVE TANK FILLER NECK With automatic transmission: (US: S, Canada: S) 3.4 l (0.90 US gal, 0.75 Imp gal) (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) 3.7 l (0.98 US gal, 0.81 Imp gal)

7. Pour coolant into the radiator up to the base of the filler neck.

RESERVE HOLDER TANK CAP Fill up to here 4. Remove the reserve tank from its 6. Mix the recommended antifreeze holder by pulling it straight up. with an equal amount of purified Drain the coolant, then put the or distilled water in a clean tank back in its holder. container. The cooling system capacity is: 5. When the coolant stops draining, tighten the drain plug in the With manual transmission: bottom of the radiator. Apply non- (US: S, Canada: S) hardening sealant to the drain bolt 3.5 l (0.92 US gal, 0.77 Imp gal) threads and reinstall the bolt in (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) the engine block. Tighten it 3.8 l (1.00 US gal, 0.84 Imp gal) securely. (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) 4.0 l (1.06 US gal, 0.88 Imp gal) CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Cooling System, Windshield Washers

Windshield Washers BLEEDER BOLT

FLOAT

RESERVE TANK 8. Loosen the bleeder bolt on top of 10.Turn off the engine. Check the the engine. Tighten it again when level in the radiator, add coolant if Check the level in the windshield coolant comes out in a steady needed. Install the radiator cap, washer reservoir at least monthly stream with no bubbles. tighten it fully. during normal usage. In bad weather, when you use the washers often, 9. Refill the radiator to the base of 11.Fill the reserve tank to the MAX check the level every time you stop the filler neck. Put the cap on the mark. Install the reserve tank cap. for fuel. radiator, only tighten it to the first stop. Start the engine and let it run until it warms up (the radiator cooling fan comes on at least twice).

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Windshield Washers, Transmission Oil

The windshield washer reservoir is NOTICE Transmission Oil located behind the left headlight. Automatic Transmission Check the reservoir's fluid level by Do not use engine antifreeze or a removing the cap and looking at the vinegar/water solution in the DIPSTICK float. It should be up to the top of the windshield washer reservoir. neck. If the float is at the bottom of the neck, the reservoir is nearly Antifreeze can damage your car's paint, empty. while a vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump. Fill the reservoir with a good-quality windshield washer fluid. This Use only commercially-available increases the cleaning capability and windshield washer fluid. prevents freezing in cold weather.

Check the fluid level with the engine at normal operating temperature.

1. Park the car on level ground. Shut off the engine.

2. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission and wipe it with a clean cloth.

CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Transmission Oil

5. If the level is below the lower 5-speed Manual Transmission mark, add fluid into the tube to bring it to the upper mark. Use Correct FILLER BOLT Honda Premium Formula Auto- level matic Transmission Fluid or an equivalent DEXRON® II Auto- matic Transmission Fluid (ATF) only.

6. Insert the dipstick all the way back in the transmission.

The transmission should be drained UPPER MARK and refilled with new fluid every 24 LOWER MARK months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), Check the oil level a couple of mi- 3. Insert the dipstick all the way into whichever comes first. Shorten this nutes after shutting off the engine. the transmission. to every 12 months or 24,000 km Make sure the car is on level ground. (15,000 miles) under severe driving Remove the transmission filler bolt. 4. Remove the dipstick and check conditions (see page 133). The oil level should be up to the the fluid level. It should be edge of the bolt hole. Feel inside the between the upper and lower bolt hole with your finger. If you do marks. not feel any oil, slowly add oil until it starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt and tighten it securely.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Transmission Oil, Brake and Clutch Fluid

Only use an API Service SF or SG Brake and Clutch Fluid Brake System grade motor oil with a viscosity of Check the fluid level in the reser- SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. voirs monthly. There are up to three reservoirs, depending on model. The transmission should be drained They are: and refilled with new oil every 24 months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), Brake fluid reservoir (all models) MAX whichever comes first. Shorten the Clutch fluid reservoir MIN service interval to every 12 months (Manual transmission only) or 24,000 km (15,000 miles) under ABS reservoir severe driving conditions (see page (Except S model) 133). The brake fluid in the brake and Anti-lock brake systems should be replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km The fluid should be between the (30,000 miles), whichever comes MIN and MAX marks on the side of first. the reservoir. If the level is at or below the MIN mark, it is an indication that your brake system needs attention. Have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Brake and Clutch Fluid

If you add brake fluid to bring it up Anti-lock Brake System If the fluid level is half an inch or to the MAX mark, use Genuine more above the MAX mark, it may Honda Brake Fluid or an equivalent indicate a problem in the ABS. Have from a sealed container that is your dealer inspect the system as marked DOT3 or DOT4 only. Brake soon as possible. fluid marked DOT5 is not compatible with your car's braking system. MAX If you add brake fluid to bring it up to the MAX mark, use the same MIN DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid from a sealed container specified for the brake system.

Check the fluid level in this reservoir after driving the car for at least a few minutes. It should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If it is at or below the MIN mark, it may indicate a problem in the braking system. Have the dealer inspect your car.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Brake and Clutch Fluid, Power Steering

Clutch System Power Steering NOTICE Using automatic transmission fluid or another brand of power steering fluid will damage the system. Use only GENUINE HONDA Power Steering Fluid-V.

A low power steering fluid level can MAX UPPER LEVEL indicate a leak in the system. Check MIN the fluid level frequently and have LOWER the system inspected as soon as LEVEL possible.

The fluid should be between the You should check the fluid level in MIN and MAX marks on the side of the power steering reservoir the reservoir. If it is not, add brake monthly. Check the level when the fluid to bring it up to that level. Use engine is cold. Look at the side of the same DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid the reservoir. The fluid should be from a sealed container specified for between the UPPER LEVEL and the brake system. LOWER LEVEL. If it is below the LOWER LEVEL, add power steering Low fluid level can indicate a leak in fluid to the UPPER LEVEL. the clutch system. Have this system inspected as soon as possible.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Air Cleaner

The air cleaner element should be CLAMPS replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), whichever comes first. Under severe driving condi- tions, it should also be cleaned every 12 months or 24,000 km (15,000 miles), whichever comes first.

Cleaning (Severe Conditions) Clean the air cleaner element by blowing compressed air through it in the opposite direction to normal air AIR CLEANER ELEMENT flow. If you do not have access to compressed air (such as a gas The air cleaner element is inside the 3. Place the new air cleaner element station), ask your Honda dealer to do box on the passenger's side of the in the air cleaner housing. this service. engine compartment. To replace it: 4. Reinstall the air cleaner housing Follow the replacement procedure cover, snap the four hold-down for removal and reinstallation. 1. Unsnap the four hold-down clamps clamps back into place. and remove the air cleaner housing cover.

2. Remove the old air cleaner element. Clean the inside of the air cleaner housing with a damp rag.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Fuel Filter, Spark Plugs

Fuel Filter Spark Plugs Replacement The fuel filter should be replaced (Except US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) every 4 years or 96,000 km (60,000 The original spark plugs in your car SPARK PLUG CAP miles), whichever comes first. need to be replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), whichever Have a qualified technician change comes first. the fuel filter. Since the fuel system is under pressure, gasoline can spray (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) out and create a hazard if all fuel line The original spark plugs in your car connections are not handled are a special platinum-tipped design correctly. for longer life. They only need to be replaced every 6 years or 96,000 km The filter may require replacement (60,000 miles), whichever comes sooner if you happen to buy one or first. more tankfuls of contaminated 1. US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V: gasoline. Have the filter tested or Remove the four nuts, then replaced if you suspect it has been remove the spark plug cover. clogged by contaminants. 2. Clean up any dirt and oil around the spark plug caps. 3. Remove the spark plug cap by pulling it straight out. 4. Remove the spark plug, using a 16 mm (5/8 inch) spark plug socket.

CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Spark Plugs

NOTICE

Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A spark plug that is too loose can overheat and damage the engine. Overtightening can cause damage to the threads in the cylinder head.

7. Install the spark plug cap.

8. Repeat this procedure for the other three spark plugs. (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) Reinstall the plug wire cover and 5. Put the new spark plug into the 6. Torque the spark plug. (If you do tighten the four nuts. socket, then thread it into the hole. not have a torque wrench, tighten Screw it in by hand so you do not the spark plug 2/3 turn after it crossthread it. contacts the cylinder head.) Tightening torque: 18 N.m (1.8 kg-m, 13 Ib-ft)

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Spark Plugs, Battery

Specifications: (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) Battery Normal driving conditions Check the condition of your car's (US: S, Canada: S) NGK: PZFR6F-11 battery monthly. You should check Normal driving conditions Nippondenso: PKJ20CR-L11 for proper electrolyte level and NGK: ZFR5F-11 Hot climates, or continuous high corrosion on the terminals. Nippondenso: KJ16CR-L11 speed driving Hot climates, or continuous high NGK: PFR7G-11 speed driving Nippondenso: PK22PR-L11 NGK: ZFR6F-11 Spark Plug Gap: The battery contains sulfuric Nippondenso: KJ20CR-L11 1.1 mm (0.04 in) acid (electrolyte) which is highly Spark Plug Gap: corrosive and poisonous. 1.1 mm (0.04 in) Getting electrolyte in your eyes (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) or on your skin can cause Normal driving conditions serious burns. NGK: ZFR6F-11 Nippondenso: KJ20CR-L11 Wear protective clothing and Hot climates, or continuous high eye protection when working speed driving near the battery. NGK: ZFR7F-11 Nippondenso: KJ22CR-L11 Spark Plug Gap: 1.1 mm (0.04 in)

CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Battery

Emergency Procedures

Eyes — Flush with water from a cup or other container for at least fifteen minutes. (Water under pressure can damage the eye.) Immediately call a physician or 911.

Skin — Remove contaminated clothing. Flush the skin with large quantities of water. Call a physician immediately. TEST INDICATOR WINDOW Swallowing — Drink water or milk. Check the battery condition by Check the battery terminals for Call your local Poison Control Center looking at the test indicator window corrosion (a white or yellowish or a physician immediately. on the battery: powder). To remove it, cover the Blue — Good condition terminals with a solution of baking Red — Add distilled water soda and water. It will bubble up and White — Charging necessary turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent future corrosion.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Battery

If the terminals are severely cor- Except S model roded, clean them with baking soda If your car's battery is disconnected and water. Then use a wrench to The battery gives off explosive or goes dead, the audio system will loosen and remove the cables from hydrogen gas during normal disable itself. The next time you turn the terminals. Always disconnect the operation. on the radio you will see "Code" in negative ( — ) cable first and recon- the frequency display. Use the nect it last. Clean the battery termi- A spark or flame can cause the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit nals with a terminal cleaning tool or battery to explode with enough code (see page 95). wire brush. Reconnect and tighten force to kill or seriously hurt you. the cables, then coat the terminals NOTICE with grease. Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled Charging the battery with the cables When reconnecting the positive (+) mechanic do the battery connected can seriously damage your terminal on manual transmission maintenance. car's electronic controls. Detach the models, make sure to place the cable battery cables before connecting the securely in the clamp in the plate. battery to a charger.

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damage to the car's electri- cal system.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Windshield Wipers

Check the condition of the wind- WIPER ARMS shield wiper blades at least every six months. Look for signs of cracking in the rubber, or areas that are getting hard. Replace the blades if you find these signs, or they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.

LOCK TAB

To replace: 2. Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper arm by pushing in 1. Raise the wiper arm off the the lock tab. Hold it in while you windshield. push the blade assembly toward the base of the arm.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Windshield Wipers

5. Slide the new wiper blade into the BLADE BLADE holder until the tabs lock.

6. Slide the new blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place.

7. Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield.

REINFORCEMENT

3. Remove the blade from its holder 4. Examine the new wiper blades. If by grasping the tabbed end of the they have no plastic or metal rein- blade. Pull firmly until the tabs forcement along the back edge, come out of the holder. remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Air Conditioning

Optional for Canadian S model Periodically check the engine's If the air conditioning does not get as Your car's air conditioning is a sealed radiator and air conditioning cold as before, have your dealer system. Any major maintenance, condenser for leaves, insects, and check the system. Recharge the such as recharging, should be done dirt stuck to the front surface. These system with Refrigerant HFC-134a by a qualified technician. There are a block the air flow and reduce cooling (R-134a). (See Specifications on page couple of things you can do to make efficiency. Use a light spray from a 215.) sure the air conditioning works hose or a soft brush to remove them. efficiently. NOTICE NOTICE AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER Whenever you have the air conditioning The condenser and radiator fins bend system serviced, make sure the service easily. Only use a low-pressure spray facility uses a refrigerant recycling or soft-bristle brush to clean them. system. This system captures the refrigerant for reuse. Releasing Run the air conditioning at least once refrigerant into the atmosphere can a week during the cold weather damage the environment. months. Run it for at least ten minutes while you are driving at a steady speed with the engine at normal operating temperature. This circulates the lubricating oil con- tained in the refrigerant.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Drive Belts, Tires

Drive Belts The belts should have the following Tires "play" or deflection. To safely operate your car, your tires POWER STEERING BELT Alternator belt: must be the proper type and size, in (With air conditioning) good condition with adequate tread, 10.0 — 12.0 mm (0.39 — 0.47 in) and correctly inflated. The following (Without air conditioning) pages give more detailed information 10.5 — 12.5 mm (0.41 — 0.49 in) on how and when to check air Power steering belt: pressure, how to inspect your tires 13.5 — 16.5 mm (0.53 — 0.65 in) for damage, and what to do when your tires need to be replaced. If you see signs of wear or looseness, have your dealer adjust or replace ALTERNATOR the belts. BELT Using tires that are excessively Check the condition of the two drive worn or improperly inflated can belts. Examine the edges of each cause a crash in which you can belt for cracks or fraying. be seriously hurt or killed. Check the tension of each belt by pushing on it with your thumb Follow all instructions in this midway between the pulleys. owner's manual regarding tire inflation and maintenance.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Tires

Inflation before checking the tire pressure, Keeping the tires properly inflated the tires can still be considered provides the best combination of "cold" if you drive less than 1.6 km handling, tread life and riding (1 mile). comfort. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling If you check the pressure when the and fuel economy, and are more tires are hot (the car has been driven likely to fail from being overheated. several miles), you will see readings Overinflated tires can make your car 28 to 41 kPa (0.3 to 0.4 kg/cm2, 4 to ride more harshly, are more prone to 6 psi) higher than the cold reading. damage from road hazards, and wear This is normal. Do not let air out to unevenly. match the specified cold pressure. The tire will be underinflated. The compact spare tire pressure is: We recommend that you visually 415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm2 , 60 psi) check your tires every day and use a Recommended Tire Pressures for gauge to measure the air pressure at Normal Driving The pressures are also given on the least once a month. If you think a tire The following chart shows the tire information label on the driver's might be low, check it immediately. recommended cold tire pressures for doorjamb. Remember to check the spare tire at most normal driving conditions and the same time you check all the speeds. Tire pressures for high other tires. speed driving are shown on page 219. Check the pressure in the tires when they are cold. This means the car has been parked for at least three hours. If you have to drive the car

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Tires

You should get your own tire You should look for: Your car's tires have wear indicators pressure gauge and use it whenever molded into the tread. When the you check your tire pressures. This Bumps or bulges in the tread or tread wears down to that point, you will make it easier for you to tell if a side of the tire. Replace the tire if will see a 12.7 mm (1/2 inch) wide pressure loss is due to a tire problem you find either of these conditions. band running across the tread. This and not due to a variation between shows there is less than 1.6 mm gauges. Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side (1/16 inch) of tread left on the tire. of the tire. Replace the tire if you A tire that is this worn gives very Tubeless tires have some ability to can see fabric or tread. little traction on wet roads. You self-seal if they are punctured. should replace the tire if you can see However, because leakage is often Excessive tread wear. the tread wear indicator in three or very slow, you should look closely more places around the tire. for punctures if a tire starts losing INDICATOR LOCATION pressure. MARKS Maintenance In addition to proper inflation, Inspection correct wheel alignment helps to Every time you check inflation, you decrease tire wear. If you find a tire should also examine the tires for is worn unevenly, have your dealer damage, foreign objects, and wear. check the wheel alignment.

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Tires

The tires were properly balanced by Tire Rotation You may find tires designated as the factory. They may need to be "Directional Tires" on the market. rebalanced at some time before they Front Front Those tires are designed to turn are worn out. Have your dealer only in one direction. This check the tires if you feel a consis- direction is indicated on the tent vibration while driving. A tire sidewall of the tire by the turning should always be rebalanced if it is direction indicator. removed from the wheel for repair. Replacing Tires and Wheels Make sure the installer balances the The tires that came with your car wheels when you have new tires were selected to match the perform- installed. This increases riding (For Non- (For Directional ance capabilities of the car while comfort and tire life. Your car's directional Tires Tires and Wheels) providing the best combination of and Wheels) original tires were dynamic or "spin" handling, ride comfort, and long life. balanced at the factory. For best To help increase tire life and You should replace them with radial results, have the installer perform a distribute wear more evenly, you tires of the same size, load range, dynamic balance. should have the tires rotated every speed rating, and maximum cold tire 12,000 km (7,500 miles). Move the pressure rating (as shown on the NOTICE tires to the positions shown in the tire's sidewall). Mixing radial and chart each time they are rotated. bias-ply tires on your car can reduce (Except S) its braking ability, traction, and Improper wheel weights can damage steering accuracy. your car's aluminum wheels. Use only genuine Honda wheel weights for balancing.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Tires

If you ever need to replace a wheel, Winter Driving make sure the wheel's specifications Tires that are marked "M + S" or Installing improper tires on your match those of the original wheel "All Season" on the sidewall have an car can affect handling and that came on your car. Replacement all-weather tread design. They stability. This can cause a crash wheels are available at your Honda should be suitable for most winter in which you can be seriously dealer. driving conditions. Tires without hurt or killed. these markings are designed for Wheels and Tires optimum traction in dry conditions. Always use the size and type of Wheel: They may not provide adequate tires recommended in this (S) performance in winter driving. owner's manual. 14 x 5 1/2 JJ For the best performance in snowy (Except S) or icy conditions, you should install It is best to replace all four tires at 15 x 6 1/2 JJ snow tires or tire chains. They may the same time. If that is not possible Tire: be required by local laws under or necessary, then replace the two (S) certain conditions. front tires or the two rear tires as a 185/70R14 87H pair. Replacing just one tire can (Except S) seriously affect your car's handling. 205/55R15 87V

The ABS works by comparing the See Tire Information on page 218 for speed of the wheels. When replacing additional information about tire and tires, use the same size originally wheel size designations. See page supplied with the car. Tire size and 219 for information about DOT Tire construction can affect wheel speed Quality Grading. and may cause the system to work in- consistently. CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Tires

Snow Tires Tire Chains NOTICE If you mount snow tires on your Mount snow chains on your car Honda, make sure they are radial when warranted by driving condi- Chains of the wrong size or that are tires of the same size and load range tions or required by local laws. Make improperly installed can damage your as the original tires. Mount snow sure the chains are the correct size car's brake lines, suspension, body, and tires on all four wheels to balance for your tires. Install them only on wheels. Stop driving if you hear the your car's handling in all weather the front tires. If metal chains are chains hitting any part of the car. conditions. Keep in mind the traction used, they must be SAE class "S". provided by snow tires on dry roads Cable type traction devices can also may not be as high as your car's be used. original equipment tires. You should drive cautiously even when the roads When installing chains, follow the are clear. Check with the tire dealer manufacturer's instructions and for maximum speed recommenda- mount them as tightly as you can. tions. Drive slowly with chains installed. If you hear the chains contacting the body or chassis, stop and tighten them. If they still make contact, slow down until it stops. Remove the chains as soon as you begin driving on cleared roads.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Lights

Check the operation of your car's Replacing a Headlight Bulb exterior lights at least once a month. Your car has two bulbs on each side, A burned out bulb can create an four in total. Make sure you are unsafe condition by reducing your replacing the bulb that is burned out. car's visibility and the ability to Your car uses halogen headlight signal your intentions to other bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle drivers. it by its plastic case and protect the Check the following: glass from contact with your skin or Headlights (low and high beam) hard objects. If you touch the glass, Parking lights clean it with denatured alcohol and a Taillights clean cloth. Brake lights High-mount brake light NOTICE Turn signals 1. Open the hood. Back-up lights Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot If you need to change the high Hazard light function when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch beam headlight bulb on the License plate light on the glass can cause the bulb to passenger's side, remove the Side marker lights overheat and shatter. radiator reserve tank by pulling it Daytime running lights straight up. (Canadian cars) 2. To disconnect the bulb from the If you find any bulbs are burned out, electrical harness, push on the end replace them as soon as possible. of the lock tab to release the Refer to the chart on page 215 to connector then push the connec- determine what type of replacement tor straight down. bulb is needed. CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Lights

3. Turn the lock ring counterclock- Replacing a Parking Light Bulb wise (about one-quarter turn) to unlock the headlight bulb. SCREW 4. Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its recess. 5. Install the new bulb with the electrical connector pointing down. Make sure all three tabs on the bulb are seated in their slots in the headlight. 6. Turn the lock ring clockwise to lock the bulb in place. Do not force the ring. Check the seating of the bulb's tabs if the ring will not return to its original position. 1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 2. Move the parking light assembly 7. Reinstall the harness connector on remove the screw from the top of forward until it slides out of the the bulb connector. Make sure it the fender. body. locks in place. Turn on the headlights to test the 3. Turn the socket one-quarter turn new bulb. counterclockwise to remove it 8. (Passenger's side) from the lens. Reinstall the radiator reserve tank.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Lights

4. Pull the bulb straight out of its Replacing a Front Side Marker socket. Light Bulb Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms. BULB

5. Insert the socket back into the lens. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

6. Turn on the parking lights to make sure the new bulb works.

7. To reinstall the light assembly in FRONT SIDE SCREW MARKER the fender, line up the fingers on ASSEMBLY BULB HOLDER the light assembly with the holes in the fender. Push the light 1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 3. Remove the bulb holder from the assembly straight back. loosen the side marker assembly's side marker assembly by turning it mounting screw. one-quarter turn counterclockwise. 8. Install the mounting screw and tighten it securely. 2. Remove the side marker assembly 4. Pull the bulb straight out of its from the bumper. socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Lights

5. Push the bulb holder into the side Replacing a Front Turn Signal marker assembly and turn it clock- Light Bulb wise until it locks. TURN SIGNAL ASSEMBLY 6. Test the side marker to make sure the new bulb is working.

7. Put the side marker assembly into the bumper. Make sure the tab on the side marker assembly fits into the bumper slot. Tighten the mounting screw. BULB SCREW BULB HOLDER 1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 3. Remove the bulb holder from the loosen the turn signal assembly's turn signal assembly by turning it mounting screw. counterclockwise.

2. Remove the turn signal assembly 4. Remove the burned out bulb from from the bumper. the socket by pushing it in and turning counterclockwise until it unlocks. Install the new bulb.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Lights

5. Push the bulb holder into the turn Replacing a High-mount Brake signal assembly and turn it Light Bulb clockwise until it locks. (US: S, Si, Canada: S, SR)

6. Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

7. Put the turn signal assembly into the bumper. Make sure the tab on the turn signal assembly fits into the bumper slot. Tighten the mounting screw.

COVER 1. Remove the cover by pulling it 4. Test the lights to make sure the down and sliding it forward. new bulb is working.

2. Determine which bulb is burned 5. Reinstall the cover by sliding it out. into position and pushing it up.

3. Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs 4. Install the new bulb in the socket. Test it to make sure it works. COVER 5. Reinstall the bulb holder assembly. Install the two screws and tighten them securely.

1. Open the trunk and the taillight 3. Try the tail/stoplights, rear turn assembly cover. signals and back-up lights to verify which bulb needs replacing. 2. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to Remove that bulb from the socket remove the two screws from the by pushing it in slightly and bulb holder. Remove the holder turning it counterclockwise. from the taillight assembly.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Lights

Replacing a Rear Side Marker 5. Insert the socket in the assembly. Light Bulb Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

6. Reinstall the side marker assem- bly in the fender. Tighten the mounting screw securely.

SCREW

1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 3. Remove the socket from the light loosen the side marker assembly assembly by turning it counter- mounting screw. clockwise.

2. Remove the assembly from the 4. Remove the bulb from the socket fender by pulling out the back by pulling it straight out. edge and sliding the assembly Install the new bulb. Turn on the backwards. headlights to test the bulb.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Lights

Replacing a Rear License Bulb 4. Turn on the parking lights and Replacing a Ceiling Light Bulb check that the new bulb is 1. Remove the lens by carefully working. prying on the edge of the lens in the middle with a fingernail file or 5. Reinstall the cover and the lens. a small flat-tip screwdriver. Do not Put the license light assembly in pry on the edge of the housing place. Reinstall the two screws and around the lens. tighten them securely. 2. Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs.

3. Push the new bulb into the metal tabs. Snap the lens back in place.

1. Remove the two screws and remove the license light assembly.

2. Remove the lens from the rubber seal and the metal cover.

3. Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb in until it bottoms in the socket.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Lights

On S and Si models in the U.S., and S On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR Replacing a Spotlight Bulb and SR models in Canada 4WS and SR-V models in Canada On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR 4WS and SR-V models in Canada The spotlight bulbs are in the ceiling light housing.

1. Remove the ceiling light lens as shown previously.

CONTINUED

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Lights

Replacing a Trunk Light Bulb

SPOTLIGHT BULB 2. Remove the two screws and 4. Pull the bulb straight out of the remove the ceiling light assembly. holder. Push the new bulb straight 1. Remove the lens by carefully into the holder until it bottoms. prying on the edge of the lens with 3. Turn over the ceiling light a fingernail file or a small flat-tip assembly. Remove the two screws 5. Test the lights to make sure the screwdriver. Do not pry on the from the spotlight bulb holder. new bulb is working. edge of the housing around the lens. 6. Reinstall the bulb holder and ceiling light assembly in the 2. Remove the bulb by pulling it reverse order of removal. Snap the straight out of its metal tabs. ceiling light lens back in place. 3. Push the new bulb into the metal tabs. Snap the lens back in place.

Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Storing Your Car

If you need to park your car for an Block the rear wheels. Cover the car with a "breathable" extended period (more than 1 car cover, one made from a porous month), there are several things you If the car is to be stored for a material such as cotton. should do to prepare it for storage. longer period, it should be Nonporous materials, such as Proper preparation helps prevent supported on jackstands so the plastic sheeting, trap moisture deterioration and makes it easier to tires are off the ground. which can damage the paint. get your car back on the road. It is best to store your car indoors if at all Leave one window open slightly (if If possible, run the engine for a possible. the car is being stored indoors). while periodically (preferably once a month). Fill the fuel tank. Disconnect the battery. If you store your car for 12 months Change the engine oil and filter Support the front wiper blade or longer, have your Honda dealer (see page 141). arms with a folded towel or rag so perform the inspections called for in they do not touch the windshield. the 24 months/48,000 km (30,000 Wash and dry the exterior miles) maintenance schedule completely. Apply a silicone spray lubricant to (Normal Conditions) as soon as you all door and trunk seals. Also, take it out of storage (see page 132). Clean the interior. Make sure the apply wax to the painted surfaces The replacements called for in the carpeting, floor mats, etc. are that mate with the door and trunk maintenance schedule are not completely dry. seals. needed unless the car has actually reached that time or mileage. Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in Reverse (manual) or Park (automatic).

Maintenance Main Menu ▲ ▼ Appearance Care

Regular cleaning and polishing of your Honda helps to keep it "new" looking. This section gives you hints on how to clean and preserve your car's appearance: the paint, bright- work, wheels and interior. Also included are several things you can do to help prevent corrosion.

Exterior Care...... 182 Washing...... 182 Power Antenna Cleaning...... 182 Waxing...... 183 Aluminum Wheels...... 183 Paint Touch-up...... 184 Interior Care...... 185 Carpeting...... 185 Fabric...... 185 Vinyl...... 185 Leather...... 185 Seat Belts...... 185 Windows...... 186 Air Fresheners...... 186 Corrosion Protection...... 186 Body Repairs...... 187

Appearance Care Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Exterior Care

Washing Wash the car, using the water and Power Antenna Cleaning Frequent washing helps preserve detergent solution and a soft- Twice a year, clean the antenna mast your car's beauty. Dirt and grit can bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth. with a dry cloth and mild detergent. scratch the paint, while tree sap and Start at the top and work your way Scrub the antenna in upward strokes bird droppings can permanently ruin down. Rinse frequently. to avoid bending it. Rinse with water. the finish. Check the body for road tar, tree Make sure the antenna works Wash your car in a shady area, not in sap, etc. Remove these stains with smoothly by turning the stereo off direct sunlight. If the car is parked in tar remover or turpentine. Rinse it and on several times with the the sun, move it into the shade and off immediately so it does not ignition switch ON (II). The antenna let the exterior cool down before you harm the finish. Remember to re- does not need lubricating. start. wax these areas, even if the rest of the car does not need waxing. If you use a "drive-through" car wash, NOTICE make sure you turn the stereo off When you have washed and rinsed first. This retracts the antenna to Chemical solvents and strong cleaners the whole exterior, dry it with a prevent damage from the car wash can damage the paint, metal, and chamois or soft towel. Letting it brushes. plastic on your car. air-dry will cause dulling and water spots. Rinse the car thoroughly with cool water to remove loose dirt. As you dry the car, inspect it for chips and scratches that could allow Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix corrosion to start. Repair them with in a mild detergent, such as touch-up paint (see page 184). dishwashing liquid or a product made especially for car washing.

Appearance Care Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Exterior Care

Waxing Polishes — Polishes and cleaner/ Aluminum Wheels Always wash and dry the whole car waxes can restore the shine to paint Except S model before waxing it. You should wax that has oxidized and lost some of its Clean your Honda's aluminum alloy your car, including the metal trim, shine. They normally contain mild wheels as you do the rest of the whenever water sits on the surface abrasives and solvents that remove exterior. Wash them with the same in large patches. It should form into the top layer of the finish. You solution, and rinse them thoroughly. beads or droplets after waxing. should use a polish on your Honda if the finish does not have its original The wheels have a protective clear- You should use a quality liquid or shine after using a wax. coat that keeps the aluminum from paste wax. Apply it according to the corroding and tarnishing. Using instructions on the container. In Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with harsh chemicals, including some general, there are two types of removers also takes off the wax. commercial wheel cleaners, or stiff products: Remember to re-wax those areas, brushes can damage this clear-coat. even if the rest of the car does not Only use a mild detergent and soft Waxes — A wax coats the finish and need waxing. brush or sponge to clean the wheels. protects it from damage by exposure to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You should use a wax on your Honda when it is new.

Appearance Care Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Exterior Care

Paint Touch-up Examine the chip or scratch closely Your dealer has touch-up paint to before repairing it. If it does not go match your car's color. The color down to bare metal, clean it with code is printed on a sticker on the soap and water and apply the touch- driver's doorjamb. Take this code to up paint. If it does go to the metal, your dealer so you are sure to get apply a coat of primer first. After this the correct color. dries, apply the touch-up paint. Build up the paint in the damaged area to the level of the surrounding paint. Several thin coats of paint are better than one thick coat. TOUCH-UP PAINT

Inspect your car for chipped or scratched paint every time you wash it. Repair it as soon as possible to prevent corrosion. Use the touch-up paint on small chips and scratches. More extensive damage should be repaired by a professional.

Appearance Care Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Interior Care

Carpeting Vinyl Seat Belts Vacuum the carpeting frequently to Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft the carpet wear out faster. cloth dampened in a solution of mild Periodically shampoo the carpet to soap and water. Use the same keep it looking new. Use one of the solution with a soft-bristle brush on foam-type carpet cleaners on the more difficult spots. You can also use market. Follow the instructions that commercially-available spray or come with the cleaner, applying it foam-type vinyl cleaners. with a sponge or soft brush. Keep the carpeting as dry as possible by Leather not adding water to the foam. On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR-V model in Canada Fabric Vacuum dirt and dust from the METAL LOOP Vacuum dirt and dust out of the leather frequently. Pay particular If your seat belts get dirty, you can material frequently. For general attention to the pleats and seams. use a soft brush with a mixture of cleaning, use a solution of mild soap Clean the leather with a soft cloth mild soap and warm water to clean and lukewarm water, letting it air dry. dampened with clear water, then them. Do not use bleach, dye, or To clean off stubborn spots, use a buff it with a clean, dry cloth. If cleaning solvents. They can weaken commercially-available fabric cleaner. further cleaning is needed, use a the belt material. Let the belts air- Test it on a hidden area of the fabric soap specifically for leather, such as dry before you use the car. first, to make sure it does not bleach saddle soap. Apply this soap with a or stain the fabric. Follow the damp, soft cloth. Wipe down and instructions that come with the buff as described above. cleaner. CONTINUED

Appearance Care Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Interior Care, Corrosion Protection

Dirt build-up in the metal loops of NOTICE Corrosion Protection the seat belt anchors can cause the Two factors normally contribute to belts to retract slowly. Wipe the The rear window defogger wires are causing corrosion in your car: inside of the loops with a clean cloth bonded to the inside of the glass. dampened in isopropyl alcohol or a Wiping vigorously up-and-down can 1. Moisture trapped in body cavities. mixture of mild soap and warm dislodge and break the defogger wires. Dirt and road salt that collects in water. When cleaning the rear window, use hollows on the underside of the gentle pressure and wipe side-to-side. car stays damp, promoting Windows corrosion in that area. Clean the windows, inside and out, Air Fresheners with a commercially-available glass If you want to use an air freshener/ 2. Removal of paint and protective cleaner. You can also use a mixture deodorizer in the interior of your car, coatings from the exterior and of one part white vinegar to ten parts it is best to use a solid type. Some underside of the car. water. This will remove the haze that liquid air fresheners contain chemi- builds up on the inside of the cals that may cause parts of the Many corrosion-preventive measures windows. Use a soft cloth or paper interior trim and fabric to crack or are built into your Honda. You can towels to clean all glass and clear discolor. help keep your car from corroding plastic surfaces. by performing some simple periodic If you use a liquid air freshener, maintenance: make sure you fasten it securely so it does not spill as you drive. Repair chips and scratches in the paint as soon as you discover them.

Appearance Care Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Corrosion Protection, Body Repairs

Inspect and clean out the drain Body Repairs When reporting your collision to the holes in the bottom of the doors Body repairs can affect your car's insurance company, tell them you and body. resistance to corrosion. If your car want genuine Honda parts used in needs repairs after a collision, pay the repair. Although most insurers Check the floor coverings for close attention to the parts used in recognize the quality of original dampness. Carpeting and floor the repair and the quality of the parts, some may try to specify that mats may remain damp for a long work. the repairs be done with other time, especially in winter. This available parts. You should dampness can eventually cause Make sure the repair facility uses investigate this before any repairs the floor panels to corrode. genuine Honda replacement body are begun. parts. Some companies make Use a high-pressure spray to clean sheetmetal pieces that seem to Take your car to your authorized the underside of your car. This is duplicate the original Honda body Honda dealer for inspection after the especially important in areas that parts, but are actually inferior in fit, repairs are completed. He can make use road salt in winter. It is also a finish, and corrosion resistance. sure that quality materials were used, good idea in humid climates and Once installed, they do not give the and that corrosion-preventive areas subject to salt air. Cars same high-quality appearance. coatings were applied to all repaired equipped with ABS have a sensor and replaced parts. and wiring at each wheel. Be careful not to damage them.

Have the corrosion-preventive coatings on the underside of your car inspected and repaired periodically.

Appearance Care Main Menu ▲ ▼ Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more- Compact Spare Tire...... 190 common problems that motorists Changing a Flat Tire...... 191 experience with their cars. It gives If Your Engine Won't Start...... 196 you information about how to safely Nothing Happens...... 196 evaluate the problem and what to do The Starter Operates to correct it. If the problem has Normally...... 197 stranded you on the side of the road, Jump Starting...... 197 you may be able to get going again. If Your Engine Overheats...... 199 If not, you will also find instructions Low Oil Pressure...... 201 on getting your car towed. Charging System Indication...... 202 Malfunction Indicator Lamp/ Check Engine Light...... 203 Closing the Sunroof...... 204 Fuses...... 205 Checking and Replacing...... 206 Towing...... 210

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Compact Spare Tire

Your car has a compact spare tire Follow these precautions whenever INDICATOR that takes up less space. Use this you are using the compact spare tire: LOCATION spare tire as a temporary replace- MARK ment only. Get your regular tire Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) repaired or replaced and put back on under any circumstances. your car as soon as you can. This tire gives a harsher ride and Check the inflation pressure of the less traction on some road sur- compact spare tire every time you faces than the regular tire. Use check the other tires. It should be greater caution while driving on inflated to: this tire. TREAD WEAR 415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm2 , 60 psi) INDICATOR BAR Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare. The compact spare tire has a shorter tread life than a regular tire. Replace The wheel of the compact spare it when you can see the tread wear tire is designed especially to fit indicator bars. The replacement your car. Do not use your spare should be the same size and design tire on another car unless it is the tire, mounted on the same wheel. same make and model. The compact spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the compact wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Changing a Flat Tire

5. Unscrew the wing bolt and take If you have a flat tire while driving, TRUNK FLOOR JACK stop in a safe place to change it. the spare tire out of the trunk. Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder of a busy road is dangerous. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.

The car can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone SPARE TIRE TOOL KIT underneath. 2. Put the transmission in Park Follow the directions for (automatic) or Reverse (manual). changing a tire exactly, and Set the parking brake. never get under the car when it is supported only by the jack. 3. Open the trunk. Raise the trunk floor by lifting up on the back edge.

1. Park the car on firm, level ground 4. Take the tool kit out of the trunk. away from traffic. Turn on the hazard warning lights and turn the ignition to LOCK (0).

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Changing a Flat Tire

HANDLE

COVER JACK 6. The jack is behind a cover in the 7. Turn the jack's end bracket 8. Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2 right fender. Remove the cover by counterclockwise to loosen it, then turn with the wheel wrench. turning the handle clockwise, then remove the jack. pulling on the cover.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Changing a Flat Tire

JACKING WHEEL EXTENSION POINT WRENCH 9. Locate the jacking point nearest 10. Use the extension and wheel 11. Remove the wheel nuts and flat the tire you need to change. It is wrench as shown to raise the car tire. Temporarily place the flat tire pointed to by an arrow molded into until the flat tire is off the ground. on the ground with the outside the underside of the body. Place surface of the wheel facing up. the jack under the jacking point. The outside surface contacting the Turn the end bracket clockwise ground could damage the wheel until the top of the jack contacts surface. the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting on the jack notch.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Changing a Flat Tire

BRAKE HUB

12. Before mounting the spare tire, 13. Put on the spare tire. Put the 14. Lower the car to the ground and wipe any dirt off the mounting wheel nuts back on finger-tight, remove the jack. surface of the wheel and hub with then tighten them in a crisscross a cloth. pattern with the wheel wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten them fully.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Changing a Flat Tire

WING BOLT 19. Store the jack in its holder with the end bracket facing to the rear. SPACER Turn the jack's end bracket to lock CONE it in place. Replace the cover. Store the tool kit.

20. Store the wheel cover or center cap in the trunk. Make sure it does not get scratched or damaged.

15. Tighten the wheel nuts securely in 16. Remove the wheel cover or center the same crisscross pattern. Have cap. the wheel nut torque checked at Place the flat tire face down in the the nearest automotive service trunk well. facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 17. Remove the spacer cone from the 110 N.m (11 kg-m, 80 Ib-ft) wing bolt, turn it over, and put it back on the bolt.

18. Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ If Your Engine Won't Start

Diagnosing why your engine won't Nothing Happens or the Starter Turn the ignition switch to START start falls into two areas, depending Motor Operates Very Slowly (III). If the headlights do not dim, on what you hear when you turn the When you turn the ignition switch to check the condition of the fuses. If key to START (III): START (III), you do not hear the the fuses are OK, there is proba- normal noise of the engine trying to bly something wrong with the You hear nothing, or almost start. You may hear a clicking sound electrical circuit for the ignition nothing. The engine's starter or series of clicks, or nothing at all. switch or starter motor. You will motor does not operate at all, or Check these things: need a qualified technician to operates very slowly. determine the problem. (See Check the transmission interlock. Towing on page 210.) You can hear the starter motor If you have a manual transmission, operating normally, but the engine the clutch pedal must be pushed If the headlights dim noticeably or does not start up and run. all the way to the floor or the go out when you try to start the starter will not operate. With an engine, either the battery is dis- automatic transmission, it must be charged or the connections are in Park or Neutral. corroded. Check the condition of the battery and terminal connec- Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). tions (see page 158). You can Turn on the headlights and check then try jump starting the car from their brightness. If the headlights a booster battery (see page 197). are very dim or don't light at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting on page 197.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ If Your Engine Won't Start, Jump Starting

The Starter Operates Normally Jump Starting To jump start your car: In this case, the starter motor If your car's battery has run down, sounds normal when you turn the you may be able to start the engine 1. Open the hood and check the ignition switch to START (III), but by using a booster battery. Although physical condition of the battery the engine does not run. this seems like a simple procedure, (see page 157). In very cold there are several precautions you weather, check the condition of Are you using the proper starting should take. Follow the directions the electrolyte. If it seems slushy procedure? Refer to Starting the closely. or like ice, do not try jump starting Engine on page 109. until it thaws.

Do you have fuel? Turn the NOTICE ignition switch to ON (II) for a A battery can explode if you do minute and watch the fuel gauge. not follow the correct procedure, If a battery sits in extreme cold, the The low fuel level warning light seriously injuring anyone electrolyte inside can freeze. may not be working, so you were nearby. Attempting to jump start with a frozen not reminded to fill the tank. battery can cause it to rupture or Keep all sparks, open flames, explode. There may be an electrical and smoking materials away problem, such as no power to the from the battery. 2. Turn off all the electrical acces- fuel pump. Check all the fuses sories: heater, A/C, stereo system, (see page 205). lights, etc. You cannot start a Honda with an Put the transmission in Neutral or If you find nothing wrong, you will automatic transmission by pushing Park and set the parking brake. need a qualified technician to find or pulling it. the problem. See Towing on page 210. CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Jump Starting

BOOSTER BATTERY 3. Connect one jumper cable to the 4. Connect the second jumper cable 6. Start your car. If the starter motor positive ( + ) terminal on the to the negative ( — ) terminal on still operates slowly, check the booster battery. Connect the other the booster battery. Connect the jumper cable connections to make end to the positive ( + ) terminal other end to the grounding strap sure they have good metal-to- on your Honda's battery. as shown. Do not connect this metal contact. jumper cable to any other part of the engine. 7. Once your car is running, discon- nect the negative cable from your 5. If the booster battery is in another car, then from the booster battery. car, have an assistant start that car Disconnect the positive cable from and run it at a fast idle. your car, then the booster battery.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ If Your Engine Overheats

Your car's temperature gauge should Your car can overheat for several 2. If you see steam and/or spray register in the midrange under most reasons, such as lack of coolant or a coming from under the hood, turn conditions. It may register higher if mechanical problem. The only off the engine. you are driving up a long steep hill indication may be the temperature on a very hot day. If it illuminates the gauge illuminating the red marker. 3. If you do not see steam or spray, red marker at the right end of the Or you may see steam or spray leave the engine running and gauge, you should determine the coming from under the hood. In watch the temperature gauge. If reason. either case, you should take the high heat is due to overloading immediate action. (climbing a long, steep hill on a NOTICE hot day with the A/C running, for example), the engine should start Driving with the temperature gauge's to cool down almost immediately. red marker lit can cause serious Steam and spray from an If it does, wait until the tempera- damage to your engine. overheated engine can ture gauge comes down to the mid- seriously scald you. point then continue driving.

Do not open the hood if steam 4. If the temperature gauge is coming out. continues to display the red marker, turn off the engine. 1. Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in neutral or 5. Wait until you see no more signs park and set the parking brake. of steam or spray, then open the Turn off the heating and cooling hood. system and all other accessories. Turn on the hazard warning indicators. CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ If Your Engine Overheats

6. Look for any obvious coolant leaks, 10. Start the engine and set the such as a split radiator hose. temperature control lever to Everything is still extremely hot, Removing the radiator cap maximum. Add coolant to the so use caution. If you find a leak, it while the engine is hot can radiator up to the base of the filler must be repaired before you cause the coolant to spray out, neck. If you do not have the continue driving (see Towing on seriously scalding you. proper coolant mixture available, page 210). you can add plain water. Always let the engine and Remember to have the cooling 7. If you don't find an obvious leak, radiator cool down before system drained and refilled with check the coolant level in the removing the radiator cap. the proper mixture as soon as you radiator reserve tank (see page can. 143). If the level is below the MIN mark, add coolant to half-way 9. Using gloves or a large heavy 11. Put the radiator cap back on between the MIN and MAX marks. cloth, turn the radiator cap tightly. Run the engine and watch counterclockwise, without pushing the temperature gauge. If it 8. If there was no coolant in the down, to the first stop. This illuminates the red marker again, reserve tank, you may also have to releases any remaining pressure in the engine needs repair. (See add coolant to the radiator. Let the the cooling system. After the Towing on page 210.) engine cool down until the pressure releases, push down on temperature gauge registers the cap and turn it until it comes 12. If the temperature stays normal, below the midpoint, or lower, off. check the coolant level in the before checking the radiator. radiator reserve tank. If it has gone down, add coolant to the MAX mark. Put the cap back on tightly.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Low Oil Pressure

1. Safely pull off the road and shut 4. Start the engine and watch the oil off the engine. pressure light. If the light does not go out within ten seconds, turn off 2. Let the car sit for a minute. Open the engine. There is a mechanical the hood and check the oil level problem that needs to be repaired (see page 138). Although oil level before you can continue driving. and oil pressure are not directly (See Towing on page 210.) connected, an engine that is very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers. LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR 3. If necessary, add oil to bring the The low oil pressure indicator should level back to the full mark on the never come on when the engine is dipstick (see page 138). running. If this light comes on with the engine running, take immediate action.

NOTICE

Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn off the engine as soon as you can safely get the car stopped.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Charging System Indication

Immediately turn off all electrical By eliminating as much of the accessories: radio, heater, A/C, rear electrical load as possible, you can defogger, cruise control, etc. Try not drive several miles before the to use other electrically-operated battery is too discharged to keep the controls such as the power windows. engine running. Drive to a service Keep the engine running and take station or garage where you can get extra care not to stall it. Starting the technical assistance. engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

The charging system indicator should go out after the engine starts. If it comes on brightly with the engine running, the alternator is no longer charging the battery.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Malfunction Indicator Lamp/Check Engine Light

If this indicator light comes on, NOTICE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ safely pull off the road and turn off CHECK ENGINE LIGHT* the engine. Restart the engine and If you keep driving with the malfunc- watch the indicator light. If it stays tion indicator lamp/check engine light on, have your car checked by the on, you can damage your car's dealer as soon as possible. Drive emission controls and engine. Those moderately until the dealer has repairs may not be covered by your inspected the problem. Avoid full- car's warranties. throttle acceleration and driving at high speed.

* U.S. indicator shown You should also have the dealer inspect your car if the indicator light If this indicator comes on while comes on frequently, even though it driving, there is a problem with your goes off when you follow the above engine or its emission control procedure. systems. Even though you may feel no difference in your car's per- formance, it can reduce your fuel economy and cause your car to put out excessive emissions. Continued operation may cause serious engine damage.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Closing the Sunroof

If the electric motor will not close the sunroof, do the following: SOCKET

1. Check the fuse for the sunroof motor (see page 206). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating.

2. Try closing the sunroof. If the new fuse blows immediately or the sunroof motor still does not operate, you can close the sunroof ROUND PLUG manually. 4. Pry off the round plug in the 5. Insert the sunroof wrench into the 3. Get the tool kit out of the trunk. center of the headliner. socket behind this plug. Turn the wrench until the sunroof is fully closed.

6. Remove the wrench. Replace the round plug.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Fuses

All the electrical circuits in your car UNDERHOOD TAB INTERIOR have fuses to protect them from a short circuit or overload. These fuses are located in two fuse boxes.

KNOB

The underhood fuse box is located in The interior fuse box is underneath the engine compartment next to the the dashboard on the driver's side. battery. To open, push the tab as To open, turn the knob as shown. shown.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Fuses

Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your car stops working, the first thing you FUSE PULLER should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages 208 and 209, or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that component. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that is not the cause. Replace any blown fuses and check BLOWN the component's operation.

1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK 3. Check each of the large fuses in 4. Check the smaller fuses in the (0). Make sure the headlights and the underhood fuse box by looking underhood fuse box and all the all other accessories are off. through the top at the wire inside. fuses in the interior fuse box by Removing these fuses requires a pulling out each fuse with the fuse 2. Remove the cover from the fuse Phillips-head screwdriver. puller provided in the interior fuse box. box.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Fuses

If you cannot drive the car without NOTICE BLOWN fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the Replacing a fuse with one that has a same rating or a lower rating from higher rating greatly increases the one of the other circuits. Make sure chances of damaging the electrical you can do without that circuit system. If you do not have a replace- temporarily (such as the cigarette ment fuse with the proper rating for the lighter or radio). circuit, install one with a lower rating.

If you replace the blown fuse with a 6. If the replacement fuse of the spare fuse that has a lower rating, it same rating blows in a short time, might blow out again. This does not there is probably a serious indicate anything wrong. Replace the electrical problem in your car. 5. Look for a burned wire inside the fuse with one of the correct rating as Leave the blown fuse in that fuse. If it is burned out, replace it soon as you can. circuit and have your car checked with one of the spare fuses of the by a qualified technician. same rating or lower.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Fuses

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

* : On Canadian cars

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Fuses

UNDERHOOD FUSE BOX

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Towing

If your car needs to be towed, call a Sling-type Equipment — The tow NOTICE professional towing service or, if you truck uses metal cables with hooks belong to one, an organization that on the ends. These hooks go around Improper towing preparation will provides roadside assistance. Never parts of the frame or suspension and damage the transmission. Follow the tow your car behind another car with the cables lift that end of the car off above procedure exactly. If you cannot just a rope or chain. It is very the ground. Your car's suspension shift the transmission or start the dangerous. and body can be seriously damaged engine (automatic transmission), your if this method of towing is attempted. car must be transported on a flat-bed. Emergency Towing There are three popular methods of If your Honda cannot be transported It is best to tow the car no farther towing a car: by flat-bed, it should be towed with than 80 km (50 miles), and keep the front wheels off the ground. If the speed below 35 mph (55 Flat-bed Equipment — The operator due to damage, your car must be km/h). loads your car on the back of a truck. towed with the front wheels on the This is the best way of trans- ground, do the following: NOTICE porting your Honda. 5-speed Manual Transmission Trying to lift or tow your car by the Wheel Lift Equipment — The tow Release the parking brake. bumpers will cause serious damage. truck uses two pivoting arms that go Shift the transmission to Neutral. The bumpers are not designed to under the tires (front or rear) and lift Automatic Transmission support the car's weight. them off the ground. The other two Release the parking brake. wheels remain on the ground. Start the engine. Shift to D4, then to N. Turn off the engine.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu ▲ ▼ Technical Information

The diagrams in this section give Identification Numbers...... 212 Emission Controls...... 221 you the dimensions and capacities of Specifications...... 214 The Clean Air Act...... 221 your Honda, and the locations of the Anti-lock Brake System...... 216 Crankcase Emission Control identification numbers. The expla- Four Wheel Steering...... 217 System...... 221 nations of several electronic and Tire Information ...... 218 Evaporative Emission Control mechanical systems on your Honda Tire Size Designation...... 218 System...... 221 are for the more technically-oriented Wheel Size Designation...... 218 Exhaust Emission Controls...... 222 owner. Tire Speed Ratings...... 218 PGM-FI System...... 222 Tire Pressure Adjustment Ignition Timing Control For High Speed Driving...... 219 System...... 222 DOT Tire Quality Grading...... 219 Exhaust Gas Recirculation Treadwear...... 219 (EGR) System...... 222 Traction ...... 220 Three Way Catalytic Temperature ...... 220 Converter...... 222 Replacement Parts...... 222 Three Way Catalytic Converter... 223

Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Identification Numbers

Your car has several identifying numbers located in various places. VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the 17-digit number your Honda dealer uses to register your car for warranty purposes. It is also necessary for licensing and insuring your car. The easiest place to find the VIN is on a plate fastened to the top of the dashboard. You can see it by looking through the windshield on the driver's side. It is also on the Certification label attached to the driver's doorjamb, and is stamped on the engine compartment bulkhead. The VIN is also provided in bar code on the Certification label.

CERTIFICATION LABEL

Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Identification Numbers

The Engine Number is stamped into MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER the engine block.

The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission.

ENGINE NUMBER

Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Specifications

* 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine. Reserve tank capacity: page 157 0.6 (0.16 US gal , 0.13 Imp gal) * 2 : US: S, Canada: S * 1 : US: S, Canada: S * 3 : US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS * 2 : US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS * 4 : US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V * 3 : US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V * 5 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine. Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Specifications

page 208

page 209

1 : Except high-mount brake light installed in rear spoiler. * * 2 : US: VTEC, Canada: SR 4WS, SR-V

1 : S * * 2 : Except S Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Anti-lock Brake System

The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Each wheel has a wheel speed the solenoid. This builds hydraulic is standard equipment on all models sensor assembly. As the wheel pressure on the modulator valve. except the S model. rotates, the sensor sends electrical The pressure increases in the pulses to the ABS control unit. The hydraulic line to the wheel. The ABS works by measuring how pulse frequency varies with the fast the wheels are turning during wheel speed. For the system to react quickly, the braking and comparing their speed. modulator/solenoid unit must have If any wheel is rotating much slower The electrical output of the ABS brake fluid under high pressure. than the others (on the verge of control unit is connected to the This is supplied by an accumulator locking up and skidding), the system modulator/solenoid unit. During that is pressurized by an electric reduces hydraulic pressure to that braking, the ABS control unit pump. A pressure-sensing switch on wheel's brake caliper. When that monitors the pulse frequencies from the accumulator controls this pump. wheel's speed matches the other the four wheels. When the control wheels, the system applies normal unit detects a wheel locking up, it The control unit also contains error hydraulic pressure. This can take energizes the appropriate solenoid in detection circuitry. It monitors the place several times per second at the modulator/solenoid unit. There operation of the wheel sensors, each wheel. You feel the ABS are three solenoids: one for each solenoids, pump, and electronics. If working as rapid pulsations in the front wheel, and one for the rear the control unit detects any faults, it brake pedal. wheels. The energized solenoid shuts off power to the pump motor reduces hydraulic pressure to one and solenoids. The light on the side of a modulator valve. This, in instrument panel comes on. The turn, reduces hydraulic pressure in brakes then work like a conventional the brake line going to the affected system without anti-lock capabilities. wheel. When that wheel speeds up because of the reduced braking effort, the control unit de-energizes

Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Four Wheel Steering

The SR 4WS model in Canada is The 4WS electronic control unit increases. This improves response in equipped with an electronic Four drives an electric motor built into the lane-changing maneuvers. Wheel Steering system. rear steering box. Sensors for rear wheel angle and speed provide As the driver continues to turn the As inputs, the 4WS system uses a feedback. The electronic control unit steering wheel, the rear wheels are vehicle speed sensor and a sensor to uses this feedback to compare the steered back to the straight-ahead measure how far the front wheels actual rear wheel angle to the position and then to countersteer are turned. desired angle. mode. As with same steer, the angle of countersteer varies with vehicle The electronic control unit for the When the driver turns the front speed; increasing and then 4WS system uses these inputs to wheels with the car traveling less decreasing as the speed rises. This determine which direction to steer than 18 mph (30 km/h), the rear gives improved handling in low, the rear wheels, and at what angle. wheels are countersteered. The medium, and high speed curves. Depending on vehicle speed and the angle of countersteer increases as angle of the front wheels, the rear the angle of the front wheels in- The 4WS system's electronic control wheels will be "countersteered" creases, to a maximum countersteer unit monitors the sensors whenever (steered in the opposite direction of angle of six degrees. This improves the ignition is ON. If it detects a the front wheels) or "same-steered" response when parallel parking or problem anywhere in the system, it (steered in the same direction as the making sharp turns. lights the 4WS indicator on the front wheels). instrument panel and turns the Above 18 mph (30 km/h), the rear system off. With the system off, the wheels are same-steered as the rear wheels remain pointed straight driver begins to turn the steering ahead. Your car will then drive like a wheel. The rear wheel angle for any conventional car without 4WS. given steering wheel angle is not fixed; it increases as vehicle speed

Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Tire Information

Tire Size Designation H — Speed Rating Symbol. See the Tire Speed Ratings A tire's sidewall is marked with a tire speed rating chart in this section for The chart below shows many of the size designation. You will need this additional information. different speed ratings currently information when selecting being used for passenger car tires. replacement tires for your car. The Wheel Size Designation The speed rating symbol is part of following explains what the letters Wheels are also marked with the tire size designation on the and numbers in the tire size important information that you need sidewall of the tire. This symbol designation mean. if you ever have to replace one. The corresponds to that tire's designed following explains what the letters maximum safe operating speed. (Example tire size designation) and numbers in the wheel size 185/70R14 87H designation mean.

185 — Tire width in millimeters. (Example wheel size designation) 14 x 5-1/2 JJ 70 — Aspect ratio. The tire's section height as a percentage of its width. 14 — Rim diameter in inches.

R — Tire construction code (Radial). 5-1/2 — Rim width in inches.

14 — Rim diameter in inches. JJ — Rim contour designation.

87 — Load Index, a numerical code associated with the maximum load the tire can carry.

Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Tire Information

Tire Pressure Adjustment For Be sure to readjust the pressure for Treadwear High Speed Driving normal driving speeds. You should The treadwear grade is a compara- Honda strongly recommends that wait until the tires are cold before tive rating based on the wear rate of you not drive faster than posted adjusting the tire pressure (see page the tire when tested under controlled speed limits and conditions allow. If 164). conditions on a specified government you decide it is safe to drive at high test course. For example, a tire speeds, be sure to adjust the cold tire DOT Tire Quality Grading graded 150 would wear one and one pressures as shown below. If you do (U.S. Cars) half (1-1/2) times as well on the not adjust the tire pressure, The tires on your car meet all U.S. government course as a tire graded excessive heat can build up and Federal Safety Requirements. All 100. The relative performance of cause sudden tire failure. tires are also graded for treadwear, tires depends upon the actual condi- traction, and temperature perform- tions of their use, however, and may (S) ance according to Department of depart significantly from the norm Transportation (DOT) standards. due to variations in driving habits, The following explains these service practices and differences in gradings. road characteristics and climate.

(Except S)

CONTINUED

Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Tire Information

Traction Temperature Warning: The temperature grade for The traction grades, from highest to The temperature grades are A (the this tire is established for a tire that lowest, are A, B, and C, and they highest), B, and C, representing the is properly inflated and not over- represent the tire's ability to stop on tire's resistance to the generation of loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla- wet pavement as measured under heat and its ability to dissipate heat tion, or excessive loading either controlled conditions on specified when tested under controlled separately or in combination, can government test surfaces of asphalt conditions on a specified indoor cause heat build-up and possible tire and concrete. A tire marked C may laboratory test wheel. Sustained high failure. have poor traction performance. temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce Warning: The traction grade as- tire life, and excessive temperature signed to this tire is based on brak- can lead to sudden tire failure. The ing (straight ahead) traction tests grade C corresponds to a level of and does not include cornering performance which all passenger car (turning) traction. tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Emission Controls

The burning of gasoline in your car's The Clean Air Act Crankcase Emission Control engine produces several byproducts. The United States Clean Air Act* System Some of these are carbon monoxide sets standards for automobile Your car has a Positive Crankcase (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and emissions. It also requires that Ventilation System. This keeps hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline automobile manufacturers explain to gasses that build up in the engine's evaporating from the tank also owners how their emission controls crankcase from going into the produces hydrocarbons. Controlling work and what to do to maintain atmosphere. The Positive Crankcase the production of NOx, CO, and HC them. This section summarizes how Ventilation valve routes them from is important to the environment. the emission controls work. the crankcase back to the intake Under certain conditions of sunlight Scheduled maintenance is on page manifold. They are then drawn into and climate, NOx and HC react to 132. the engine and burned. form photochemical "smog." Carbon monoxide does not contribute to * In Canada, Honda vehicles comply Evaporative Emission Control smog creation, but it is a poisonous with the Canadian Motor Vehicle System gas. Safety Standards (CMVSS) for As gasoline evaporates in the fuel Emissions valid at the time they are tank, an evaporative emission control manufactured. canister filled with charcoal adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this canister while the engine is off. After the engine is started and warmed up, the vapor is drawn into the engine and burned during driving.

Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Emission Controls

Exhaust Emission Controls Ignition Tuning Control System Replacement Parts The exhaust emission controls This system constantly adjusts the The emission control systems are include four systems: PGM-FI, ignition timing, reducing the amount designed and certified to work to- Ignition Timing Control, Exhaust of HC, CO and NOx produced. gether in reducing emissions to Gas Recirculation and Three Way levels that comply with the Clean Air Catalytic Converter. These four Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Act. To make sure the emissions systems work together to control the System remain low, you should use only new engine's combustion and minimize The Exhaust Gas Recirculation genuine Honda replacement parts or the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that (EGR) system takes some of the their equivalent for repairs. Using comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust exhaust gas and routes it back into lower quality parts may increase the emission control systems are the intake manifold. Adding exhaust emissions from your car. separate from the crankcase and gas to the air/fuel mixture reduces evaporative emission control the amount of NOx produced when The emissions control systems are systems. the fuel is burned. covered by warranties separate from the rest of your car. Read your PGM-FI System Three Way Catalytic Converter warranty manual for more informa- The PGM-FI System uses sequential The three way catalytic converter is tion. multiport fuel injection. in the exhaust system. Through It has three subsystems: Air Intake, chemical reactions, it converts HC, Engine Control, and Fuel Control. CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaust The Engine Control Module (ECM) to carbon dioxide (CO2), dinitrogen uses various sensors to determine (N2), and water vapor. how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all operating conditions.

Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Three Way Catalytic Converter

The three way catalytic converter Keep the engine tuned-up. contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical Have your car diagnosed and reactions to convert the exhaust repaired if it is misfiring, back- gasses without affecting the metals. firing, stalling, or otherwise not The catalytic converter is referred to running properly. as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Honda part or its equivalent.

The three way catalytic converter THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take A defective three way catalytic place. It can set on fire any com- converter contributes to air pollution, bustible materials that come near it. and can impair your engine's per- Park your car away from high grass, formance. Follow these guidelines to dry leaves, or other flammables. protect your car's three way catalytic converter.

Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective.

Technical Information Main Menu ▲ ▼ Warranty and Customer Relations

Warranty Coverages...... 226 Customer Relations Information...... 227 U.S. Zone Office Map...... 228 Canada Zone Office Map...... 229 Authorized Manuals...... 231

Warranty and Customer Relations Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Warranty Coverages

U.S. Cars Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat Replacement Battery Limited Your new Honda is covered by these belt that fails to function properly is Warranty — provides prorated warranties: covered for the useful life of the car. coverage for a replacement battery purchased from a Honda dealer. New Car Limited Warranty — covers Rust Perforation Limited Warranty your new car, except for the battery, — all exterior body panels are Replacement Muffler Lifetime emissions control systems and covered for rust-through from the Limited Warranty — provides accessories, against defects in inside for the specified time period coverage for as long as the pur- materials and workmanship. with no mileage limit. chaser of the muffler owns the car.

Emissions Control Systems Defects Accessory Limited Warranty — Restrictions and exclusions apply to Warranty and Emissions Genuine Honda Accessories are all these warranties. Please read the Performance Warranty — these two covered under this warranty. Time 1995 Honda Warranties booklet that warranties cover your car's and mileage limits depend on the came with your car for precise emissions control systems. Time, type of accessory and other factors. information on warranty coverages. mileage, and coverage are condi- Please read your warranty manual Your Honda's original tires are tional. Please read the warranty for details. covered by their manufacturer. Tire manual for exact information. warranty information is in a separate Replacement Parts Limited booklet. Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty — covers all Genuine Warranty — this warranty gives up Honda replacement parts against Canada Cars to 100% credit toward a replacement defects in materials and workman- Please refer to the 1995 Warranty battery. ship. and Maintenance Guide that came with your car.

Warranty and Customer Relations Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Customer Relations Information

Honda dealership personnel are If you are dissatisfied with the When you call or write, please give trained professionals. They should decision made by the dealership's us this information: be able to answer all your questions. management, contact your Honda If you encounter a problem that your Customer Relations Zone Office. Vehicle Identification Number dealership does not solve to your Refer to the U.S. and Canadian Zone (see page 212) satisfaction, please discuss it with Office maps on the following pages. Name and address of the dealer the dealership's management. The who services your car Service Manager or General Date of purchase Manager can help. Almost all Mileage on your car problems are solved in this way. Your name, address, and tele- phone number A detailed description of the problem Name of the dealer who sold the car to you

Warranty and Customer Relations Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ U.S. Zone Office Map

Western Zone Mid-Atlantic Zone P.O. Box 2260 902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200 700 Van Ness Avenue Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878 Torrance, California (301) 990-2020 90509-2260 (310) 781-4565 Southeastern Zone 1500 Morrison Parkway Northwestern Zone Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 P.O. Box 20186 (770) 442-2045 12439 N.E. Airport Way Portland, Oregon 97230 North Central Zone (503) 256-0943 601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9 (also includes Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004 Alaska and Hawaii) (847) 870-5600

South Central Zone New England Zone 4529 Royal Lane 555 Old County Road living, Texas 75063 Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096 (972) 929-5481 (860)623-3310 Central Zone See Zone 5 for: NYC Metro area 101 South Stanfield Road and Fairfield County, CT area Troy, Ohio 45373 (937) 332-6250 West Central Zone 1600 South Abilene Street. Suite D Northeastern Zone Aurora, Colorado 80012 P.O. Box 337 (303) 696-3935 Eastgate Industrial Park 115 Gaither Drive Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I. Moorestown, New Jersey 08057 Bella International (609) 235-5533 P.O. Box 190816 Includes: NYC Metro area and San Juan, PR 00919-0816 Fairfield County, CT area (787) 250-4318 The above addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot reach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information.

Customer Relations Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Canada Zone Office Map

Western Zone Quebec Zone Honda Canada Inc. Honda Canada Inc. 13240 Worster Court 1750 rue Eiffel Richmond, B.C. Boucherville, Quebec V6V 2B8 J4B 7W1 (604) 278-7121 (514) 655-6161

Central Zone Atlantic Zone Honda Canada Inc. Honda Canada Inc. 126 Milner Avenue 800 Windmill Road Scarborough, Ontario Dartmouth, N.S. MIS 3R2 B3B 1L1 (416) 299-3400 (902) 468-4416

Customer Relations Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Authorized Manuals

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners (U.S. only) should contact thier authorized Honda dealer. The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be obtained from Helm Incorporated, either by filling out the attached form or, for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone number on the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below, contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit, Michigan 48207 or call 1-800-782-4356. By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.

61SS003

61SS003EL

61SS030

31SS0630 Main Menu Table of Contents ▲ ▼ Authorized Manuals

Service Manual: This manual covers maintenance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components. It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simple enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under- stand.

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual: This manual complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your car.

Body Repair Manual: This manual describes the procedures involved in the replacement of damaged body parts.

These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14 days of delivery On returns a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

P. O. BOX 07280 DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207 1-800-782-4356 Main Menu ▲ ▼ Index

Airbag (SRS)...... 9 Shift Lock Release...... 116 Air Cleaner...... 154 Accessories Air Conditioning...... 74 Installation...... 105 Maintenance...... 162 ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Usage...... 72 Battery Position)...... 50 Air Outlets (Vents)...... 72 Charging System Light...... 33 Adding Air Pressure, Tires...... 164 Jump Starting...... 197 Automatic Transmission Alcohol and Drugs...... 24 Maintenance...... 157 Fluid...... 149 Alcohol in Gasoline...... 98 Specifications...... 215 Brake Fluid...... 151 Antenna, Cleaning...... 178 Before Driving...... 97 Clutch Fluid...... 153 Antifreeze...... 140 Belts, Seat...... 5 Engine Coolant...... 144 Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Body Repair...... 187 Engine Oil...... 138 Description...... 216 Brakes Manual Transmission Fluid..... 150 Indicator Light...... 34, 119 Anti-lock System (ABS)...... 118 Power Steering Fluid...... 153 Operation...... 118 Break-in, New Linings...... 98 Windshield Washer Fluid...... 148 Anti-theft Steering Column Fluid...... 151 Additional Safety Information...... 16 Lock...... 50 Light, Burned-out...... 174 Door Locks...... 16 Appearance Care...... 181 Parking...... 63 Driving with Pets...... 17 Ashtray...... 66 System Indicator...... 33 Seat-back Position...... 16 Audio System...... 79 Wear Indicators...... 117 Storing Cargo Safely...... 17 Automatic Speed Control...... 46 Brakes, ABS Additives, Engine Oil...... 140 Automatic Transmission...... 113 Description...... 216 Adjustments Capacity, Fluid...... 215 Operation...... 118 Mirrors...... 61 Checking Fluid Level...... 149 System Indicator...... 34, 119 Seats...... 53 Shifting...... 113 Steering Wheel...... 45 Shift Lever Positions...... 113 CONTINUED Main Menu ▲ ▼ Index

Braking System...... 117 Operation...... 87 Cleaner, Air...... 154 Break-in, New Car...... 98 CAUTION, Explanation of...... ii Cleaning Brightness Control, Certification Label...... 212 Aluminum Wheels...... 183 Instruments...... 43 Chains...... 168 Antenna...... 182 Brights, Headlights...... 42 Change Oil Carpeting...... 185 Bulb Replacement How to...... 141 Exterior...... 182 Back-up Lights...... 174 When to...... 132 Fabric...... 185 Brake Lights...... 174 Changing a Flat Tire...... 191 Interior...... 185 Front Parking Lights...... 170 Changing Engine Coolant...... 146 Leather...... 185 Front Side Marker Lights...... 171 Charging System Indicator.... 33, 202 Seat Belts...... 185 Headlights...... 169 Check Engine Light...... 34, 203 Vinyl...... 185 High-mount Brake Light...... 173 Checking Washing...... 182 License Plate Lights...... 176 Automatic Transmission Waxing...... 183 Rear Side Marker Lights...... 175 Fluid...... 149 Windows...... 186 Specifications...... 215 Battery Condition...... 157 CLEAN Light...... 94 Turn Signal Lights...... 172 Brake Fluid...... 151 Clock, Setting the...... 64 Bulbs, Halogen...... 169 Clutch Fluid...... 153 Clutch Fluid...... 153 Drive Belts...... 163 CO in the Exhaust...... 221 Engine Coolant...... 144 Cold Weather, Starting in...... 110 Engine Oil...... 138 Compact Spare...... 190 Cables, Jump Starting With...... 198 Fuses...... 205 Consumer Information...... 227 Capacities Chart...... 214 Manual Transmission Fluid..... 150 Controls, Instruments and...... 29 Carbon Monoxide Hazard...... 25 Power Steering Fluid...... 153 Coolant Cargo, Loading...... 106 Checklist, Before Driving...... 108 Adding...... 144 Cassette Player Child Safety...... 18 Checking...... 144 Care...... 94 Cigarette Lighter...... 65 Proper Solution...... 144 Main Menu ▲ ▼ Index

Temperature Gauge...... 40 Disposal of Used Oil...... 143 Emergency Brake...... 63 Corrosion Protection...... 186 Doors Emergency Flashers...... 58 Crankcase Emission Control Locking and Unlocking...... 51 Emission Controls...... 221 System...... 221 Power Door Locks...... 51 Engine Cruise Control Operation...... 46 DOT Tire Quality Grading...... 219 Belts...... 163 Customer Relations Office...... 227 Downshifting, 5-speed Manual Check Light...... 34, 203 Transmission...... 111 Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 40 Drive Belts...... 163 Malfunction Indicator Driving...... 107 Lamp...... 34, 203 DANGER, Explanation of...... ii Economy...... 104 Oil Pressure Indicator...... 33, 201 Dashboard...... 30 In Bad Weather...... 120 Oil, What Kind to Use...... 139 Daytime Running Lights...... 42 In Foreign Countries...... 99 Overheating...... 199 Dead Battery, What to Do...... 197 Specifications...... 214 Defects, Reporting Safety...... 26 Ethanol in Gasoline ...... 99 Defogger, Rear Window...... 58 Evaporative Emission Controls.... 221 Defrosting the Windows...... 78 Economy, Fuel...... 104 Exhaust Fumes...... 25 DEXRON® II Automatic Emergencies on the Road...... 189 Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat Transmission Fluid...... 150 Battery, Jump Starting...... 197 Belts by...... 8 Dimensions...... 214 Changing a Flat Tire...... 191 Exterior, Cleaning the...... 182 Dimming the Headlights...... 42 Charging System Indicator...... 202 Dipstick Check Engine Light...... 203 Automatic Transmission...... 149 Checking the Fuses...... 206 Engine Oil...... 138 Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 201 Fabric, Cleaning...... 185 Directional Signals...... 43 Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 203 Fan, Interior...... 74 Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 210 Manually Closing Sunroof...... 204 Disc Brake Wear Indicators...... 117 Overheated Engine...... 199 CONTINUED Main Menu ▲ ▼ Index

Fan, Radiator...... 27 Four Wheel Steering (4WS) Gauges Features, Comfort and Description...... 217 Engine Coolant Temperature .... 40 Convenience...... 71 Indicator Light...... 35 Fuel...... 40 Filling the Fuel Tank...... 100 Operation...... 119 Gearshift Lever Positions Filters Front End, Towing by Automatic Transmission...... 113 Fuel...... 155 Emergency Wrecker...... 210 5-speed Manual Oil...... 141 Fuel...... 98 Transmission...... 111 First Gear, Shifting...... 111 Fill Door and Cap...... 100 Glass Cleaning...... 186 5-speed Manual Transmission, Filter...... 155 Glove Box...... 64 Checking Fluid Level...... 150 Gauge...... 38 Shifting the...... 111 Octane Requirement...... 98 Flashers, Hazard Warning...... 58 Oxygenated...... 98 Flat Tire, Changing a...... 191 Tank, Filling the...... 100 Halogen Headlight Bulbs...... 169 Fluids Fuses, Checking the...... 205 Hazard Warning Flashers...... 58 Automatic Transmission...... 149 Headlights Brake...... 151 Daytime Running Lights...... 42 Clutch...... 153 High Beam Indicator...... 36 Manual Transmission...... 150 Gas Mileage, Improving...... 104 High Beams, Turning on...... 42 Power Steering...... 153 Gasohol...... 98 Low Beams, Turning on...... 42 Windshield Washer...... 148 Gasoline...... 98 Reminder Chime...... 42 FM Stereo Radio Filter...... 155 Replacing Halogen Bulbs...... 169 Reception...... 81 Gauge...... 40 Turning on...... 42 Folding Rear Seat...... 57 Octane Requirement...... 98 Heating and Cooling...... 72 Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 99 Tank, Filling the...... 100 High Altitude, Starting at...... 110 Four-way Flashers...... 58 Gas Station Procedures...... 100 High-Low Beam Switch...... 42 Hood, Opening the...... 101 Main Menu ▲ ▼ Index

Horn...... 49 Fuel Fill Door...... 100 Hot Coolant, Warning about...... 144 Glove Box...... 64 Hydraulic Clutch...... 153 Jacking up the Car...... 193 Power Door...... 51 Hydroplaning...... 121 Jack, Tire...... 191 Trunk...... 52 Jump Starting...... 197 Low Coolant Level...... 144 Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 111 Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 33, 201 Identification Number, Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 214 Vehicle...... 212 Keys...... 49 Luggage...... 106 If Your Car Has to be Towed...... 210 Ignition Keys...... 49 Switch...... 50 Label, Certification...... 212 Maintenance...... 127 Timing Control System...... 222 Lane Change, Signaling...... 43 Periodic Items...... 136 Indicator Lights, Instrument Lap/Shoulder Belts...... 6 Record...... 134 - 135 Panel...... 31 Leaking of Exhaust into Car...... 25 Schedule...... 130 - 133 Infant Restraint...... 19 Lighter, Cigarette...... 65 Manual Transmission...... 111 Inflation, Proper Tire ...... 164 Lights Manual Transmission Fluid...... 150 Inside Mirror...... 61 Bulb Replacement...... 169 Maximum Shift Speeds...... 112, 115 Inspection, Tire...... 165 Indicator...... 31 Meters, Gauges...... 38 Instrument Panel...... 30 Parking...... 42 Methanol in Gasoline...... 98 Instrument Panel Brightness...... 43 Turn Signal...... 43 Mirrors, Adjusting...... 61 Interior Cleaning...... 185 Loading Cargo...... 106 Interior Lights...... 68 LOCK (Ignition Key Position)...... 50 Introduction...... i Locks Anti-theft Steering Column...... 50 CONTINUED Main Menu ▲ ▼ Index

Overheating, Engine...... 199 Rear View Mirror...... 61 Rear Window Defogger...... 58 Neutral Gear Position...... 114 Reclining the Seat Backs...... 54 New Vehicle Break-in ...... 98 Recommended Shift Speeds ...... 111 Normal Shift Speeds...... 111 Panel Brightness Control...... 43 Reminder Lights...... 31 NOTICE, Explanation of...... ii Park Gear Position...... 114 Replacement Information Numbers, Identification...... 212 Parking Brake...... 63 Air Cleaner...... 154 Parking Lights...... 42 Coolant...... 146 Parking Over Things that Burn... 223 Engine Oil and Filter...... 141 PGM-FI System...... 222 Fuel Filter...... 155 Occupant Protection System...... 4 Polishing and Waxing...... 183 Fuses...... 205 Octane Requirement, Gasoline...... 98 Power Light Bulbs...... 169 Odometer...... 38 Door Locks...... 51 Schedule...... 130 Odometer, Trip...... 38 Mirrors...... 62 Spark Plugs...... 155 Oil Steering...... 153 Tires...... 166 Change, How to...... 141 Windows...... 59 Wiper Blades...... 160 Change, When to...... 132 Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts...... 8 Replacing Seat Belts After a Checking Engine...... 138 Proper Seat Belt Usage...... 6 Crash...... 8 Pressure Indicator...... 33 Reserve Tank, Coolant...... 144 Selecting Proper Viscosity Restraint, Child...... 18 Chart...... 140 Reverse Gear Position...... 114 ON (Ignition Key Position)...... 50 Radiator Overheating...... 199 Rotation, Tire...... 166 Opening the Hood...... 101 Radio/Cassette Sound System...... 79 Opening the Trunk...... 52 Rear End Towing...... 210 Operation in Foreign Countries..... 99 Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 174 Outside Mirrors...... 62 Rear Seat, Folding...... 57 Safety Belts...... 5 Main Menu ▲ ▼ Index

Safety Defects, Reporting...... 26 Shift Lever Position Storing Your Car...... 179 Safety Labels, Location of...... 27 Indicator...... 37, 113 Sunroof...... 60 Safety Messages...... ii Side Marker Lights, Bulb Closing Manually...... 204 Seat Belts...... 5 Replacement in...... 171 Operation...... 60 Advice for Pregnant Women...... 8 Signaling Turns...... 43 Supplemental Restraint System Child Seat Anchor Plate...... 23 Snow Tires...... 168 Service Precautions...... 15 Cleaning...... 185 Solvent-type Cleaners...... 182 Servicing...... 14 Frayed or Torn...... 8 Sound System...... 79 SRS Indicator...... 14, 34 Maintenance...... 8 Spare Tire System Components...... 9 Reminder Light and Beeper...... 33 Inflating...... 190 Replacement...... 8 Specifications...... 215 System Components...... 6 Spark Plugs, Replacing...... 155 Tether Attachment Points...... 22 Specifications Charts...... 214 Tachometer...... 38 Use During Pregnancy...... 8 Speed Control...... 46 Taillights, Changing Bulbs in...... 174 Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7 Speedometer...... 38 Taking Care of the Seats, Adjusting the...... 53 SRS Indicator...... 14, 34 Unexpected...... 189 Serial Number...... 212 START (Ignition Key Position)..... 50 Tape Player...... 87 Service Intervals...... 132 Starting the Engine...... 109 Technical Descriptions Service Manual...... 231 In Cold Weather at High Anti-lock Brake System...... 216 Service Station Procedures...... 100 Altitude...... 110 Emission Control Systems...... 221 Setting the Clock...... 64 With a Dead Battery...... 197 Four Wheel Steering...... 217 Shifting Steam Coming from Engine...... 199 Three Way Catalytic The Automatic Steering Wheel Converter...... 223 Transmission...... 113 Adjustment...... 45 Tire Information...... 218 The 5-speed Manual Anti-theft Column Lock...... 50 Transmission...... 111 Stereo Sound System...... 79 CONTINUED Main Menu ▲ ▼ Index

Temperature Gauge...... 40 Fluid Selection...... 150 Vehicle Identification Number..... 212 Tether Attachment Points...... 22 Identification Number...... 212 Vehicle Storage...... 179 Time, Setting the...... 64 Shifting the Automatic...... 113 Ventilation...... 75 Tire Chains...... 168 Shifting the Manual...... 111 VIN...... 212 Tire, How to Change a Flat...... 191 Treadwear...... 219 Vinyl Cleaning...... 185 Tires...... 163 Trip Meter...... 39 Viscosity, Oil...... 140 Air Pressure...... 164 Trunk...... 52 Checking Wear...... 165 Opening the...... 52 Compact Spare...... 190 Open Monitor Light...... 36 DOT Tire Quality Grading...... 219 Turn Signals...... 43 Warning Beepers Inflation...... 164 Key in Ignition...... 50 Inspection...... 165 Seat Belts...... 33 Replacing...... 166 WARNING, Explanation of...... ii Rotating...... 166 Underside, Cleaning...... 187 Warning Labels, Location of...... 27 Snow...... 168 Unexpected, Taking Care Warranty Coverages...... 226 Specifications...... 215 of the...... 189 Washer, Windshield Tools, Tire Changing...... 191 Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 219 Checking the Fluid Level...... 148 Torn Seat Belts...... 8 Unleaded Gasoline...... 98 Operation...... 44 Towing Upholstery Cleaning...... 185 Washing...... 182 A Trailer...... 122 Used Oil, How to Dispose of...... 143 Waxing and Polishing...... 183 Emergency Wrecker...... 210 Wheels Transmission Adjusting the Steering...... 45 Checking Fluid Level, Alignment and Balance...... 166 Automatic...... 149 Vanity Mirror...... 65 Compact Spare...... 190 Checking Fluid Level, Vehicle Capacity Load...... 106 Wrench...... 192 Manual...... 150 Vehicle Dimensions...... 214 Main Menu ▲ ▼ Index

Windows Cleaning...... 186 Operating the Power...... 59 Rear, Defogger...... 58 Windshield Cleaning...... 44 Defroster...... 78 Wipers, Windshield Changing Blades...... 160 Operation...... 44 Worn Tires...... 165 Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 210 Main Menu ▲ ▼ Gas Station Information

Gasoline: Recommended Engine Oil: Tire Pressure (measured cold): (S) (Except US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) (S) UNLEADED gasoline API SG or SH grade 205 kPa (2.1 kg/cm2, 30 psi) Pump octane of 86 or higher "Energy Conserving II" oil (Except S) (Except S) SAE 5W-30 viscosity 220 kPa (2.2 kg/cm2, 32 psi) Premium UNLEADED (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) Pump octane of 91 or higher API SG or SH grade Spare Tire Pressure: Fuel Tank Capacity. "Energy Conserving II" oil 415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm2, 60 psi) 60 l (15.9 US gal, 13.2 Imp gal) SAE 10W-30 viscosity Tire Size (Front and Rear): 5-speed Manual Transmission Oil: Engine Oil Capacity: (S) SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity including filter 185/70R1487H API SF or SG grade recom- (US: S, Canada: S) (Except S) mended 3.8 l (4.0 USqt,3.3 Imp qt) 205/55R15 87V (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) Capacity: 4.3 l (4.5 USqt,3.8 Imp qt) Spare Tire: 1.9 l (2.0 US qt,1.7 Imp qt) (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) (S) 4.8 l (5.1 US qt,4.2 Imp qt) T115/70D14 Automatic Transmission Fluid: without filter (Except S) Honda Premium Formula Auto- (US: S, Canada: S) T135/80D15 matic Transmission Fluid or an 3.5 l (3.7 US qt,3.1 Imp qt) equivalent DEXRON® II type Auto- (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) Other Tire Information: matic Transmission Fluid (ATF) 4.0 l (4.2 US qt,3.5 Imp qt) See label on the driver's door- (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) jamb. Capacity: 4.5 (4.8 US qt,4.0 Imp qt) 2.4 l (2.5 US qt,2.1 Imp qt)