1993 Del Sol 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...... 25 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features ...... 61 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving...... 69 What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving ...... 79 The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance...... 93 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care...... 137 Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected...... 145 This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information...... 165 ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)...... 175 A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...... 181 How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...... I Gas Station Information Information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

Introduction

Congratulations ! Your selection of a 1993 Honda Civic del Sol 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 other booklets in the glove box explain the warranties that protect your Honda. We suggest you read them carefully so you 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. Best wishes and happy motoring. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Honda Canada Inc. 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. symbol: Please 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 one of three words, DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. be damaged if you don't follow These mean: instructions.

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

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. Driver and Passenger Safety

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

Driver and Passenger Safety Your Occupant Protection System

Your Honda is equipped with seat The seats, head restraints, and door To get the maximum protection belts and other features that work locks also play a role in occupant from your occupant protection together to protect you and your safety. For example, reclining the system, check the following before passenger during a crash. seat-back can decrease the effec- you drive away: tiveness of your seat belt. Head Seat belts are the most important restraints can help protect your Everyone in the car is wearing a part of your occupant protection neck and head, especially during seat belt properly (see page 6). system. When worn properly, seat rear-end impacts. Door locks help Any infant or small child is belts can reduce the chance of keep your doors from being acciden- properly secured in a child safety serious injury or death in a crash. tally opened during a crash. seat. Both doors are closed and locked For added protection during a (see page 13). severe frontal collision, your del Sol Seat-backs are upright (see page has a Supplemental Restraint 13). System (SRS) with a driver's airbag. There are no loose items that could be thrown around and hurt Two indicator lights are also part someone during a crash or of your safety system. One reminds sudden stop (see page 14). you to make sure you and your passenger wear your seat belts. By following these guidelines, you The other alerts you to a possible can reduce injuries to yourself and problem with your supplemental your passenger in many crash restraint system (see page 11). situations. Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes.

Driver and Passenger Safety 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 them properly, is fundamental to Not wearing a seat belt in- could be very seriously injured in a your safety and the safety of your creases the chance of being crash. passenger. killed or seriously hurt in a crash. Do not place shoulder portion of a During a crash or emergency stop, lap/shoulder belt under your arm seat belts can help keep you from Be sure you and your passen- or behind your back. This could being thrown against the inside of ger always wear seat belts and increase the chance of serious the car, against your passenger, or wear them properly. injuries in a crash. out of the car. Do not put shoulder belt pads or Of course, seat belts cannot Important Safety Reminders other accessories on seat belts. completely protect you in every Seat belts are designed for adults They can reduce the effectiveness crash. But, in most cases, seat belts and larger children. All infants and of the belts and increase the chance reduce your chance of serious small children must be properly of injury. injury. They can even save your restrained in child safety seats life. That is why many states and (see page 15). all Canadian provinces 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 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 belts for the driver and the passen- LATCH of your seat belts if you take a little ger. PLATE time to read the following pages and make sure you know how to Your seat belt system also includes wear seat belts properly. a light on the instrument panel to remind you to fasten your seat belt, and to make sure your passenger WARNING fastens his. This light comes on Not wearing a seat belt pro- when you turn on the ignition if BUCKLE perly increases the chance of you have not fastened your seat serious injury or death in a belt. A beeper also sounds for crash. several seconds (see page 28). This style of seat belt has a single Be sure you and your passen- The following pages cover more belt that goes over your shoulder, ger always wear seat belts and about the seat belt components and across your chest, and across your wear them properly. how they work. 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 The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt

Before putting on a seat belt, be 2. Check that the belt is not twisted. 4. Pull up on the shoulder part of sure your seat is adjusted forward the belt to remove any slack. or backward to a good driving or 3. Position the lap portion of the Make sure the belt goes over riding position and the back of your belt as low as possible across your collarbone and across your seat is upright (see page46). your hips, not across your chest. stomach. This lets your strong 1. Pull the latch plate across your pelvic bones take the force of a body and insert it into the buckle. crash. Tug on the belt to make sure the latch is securely locked.

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Driver and Passenger Safety The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Advice for Pregnant Women Each time you have a check-up, ask your doctor if it's okay for you to 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 regu- larly. 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. To unlatch the seat belt, push the Protecting the mother is the best Any belt not in good condition or red PRESS button on the buckle. way to protect her unborn child. networking properly should be Guide the belt across your body to Therefore, a pregnant woman replaced. the door pillar. If the belt doesn't should wear a properly-positioned retract easily, pull it out and check seat belt whenever she drives or If a seat belt is worn during a crash, for twists or kinks. rides in a car. have your dealer replace the belt and inspect the anchors for damage. When using the seat belt, remem- ber to keep the lap portion as low as For information on how to clean possible (see page 7). your seat belts, see page 141.

Driver and Passenger Safety Supplemental Restraint System

Frontal collision range INDICATOR AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT Not wearing a seat belt in- creases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even if you have an airbag. Be sure you and your passen- ger always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

SENSORS Your Civic del Sol is equipped with The main components in your SRS a Supplemental Restraint System are: (SRS) to help protect your head and An airbag in the steering wheel. chest during a severe frontal A diagnostic system that, when collision. This system does not the ignition is ON (II), continu- replace your seat belt. It supplements, ally monitors the sensors, control or adds to, the protection offered by unit, airbag activator and all your seat belt. related wiring. An indicator light to warn you of a possible problem with the system.

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Driver and Passenger Safety Supplemental Restraint System

Emergency power backup in case How the Airbag Works To do its job, the airbag inflates your car's electrical system is with considerable force. So, while disconnected in a crash. it can reduce serious injuries and even save your life, the airbag Important Safety Reminder might cause some facial or other Even with an airbag, you need to abrasions. wear a seat belt. The reasons are: Airbags only inflate in severe frontal collisions. They offer no protection in rear impacts, side impacts, rollovers, or moderate frontal collisions.

An airbag inflates and deflates If you ever have a severe frontal very quickly. It cannot protect collision, your airbag will instantly you during any additional inflate to help protect your head impacts that can occur during a and chest. crash. When the airbag inflates, you may A seat belt helps keep you in the hear a fairly loud noise and you proper position when an airbag might see smoke and powder. This inflates. An airbag opens with is normal; it is caused by the considerable force and can hurt inflation of the airbag. you if you are not in the proper position.

Driver and Passenger Safety Supplemental Restraint System

The airbag is stored in the center SRS How the SRS of the steering wheel. For your Indicator Light Works safety, do not attach any items to The purpose of the SRS light on the steering wheel. They could your instrument panel is to alert interfere with the proper operation you of a potential problem with of the airbag. Or, if the airbag your supplemental restraint system. inflates, they could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone. Have the system checked if:

The light does not come on when you turn the ignition ON (II). The light stays on after the engine starts. After the bag completely inflates, it immediately starts deflating so it The light comes on or flashes won't interfere with your visibility, while you are driving. ability to steer, or ability to operate other controls.

Driver and Passenger Safety Supplemental Restraint System

System Service System Service Precautions Scrapping an entire car that has an Your supplemental restraint Do not modify your steering wheel uninflated airbag can be dangerous. system is virtually maintenance- or any other part of the supple- Get assistance from a Honda dealer free. There are no parts you can mental restraint system. Modifica- if your car must be scrapped. safely service. tions could make the system inef- You must have the system serviced fective. If you sell your car, please be sure by an authorized Honda dealer: to tell the new owner that the car Do not tamper with the system's has a supplemental restraint sys- If your airbag ever inflates. The components or wiring. This could tem. Alert them to the information airbag must be replaced. Do not cause the airbag to inflate inadver- and precautions in this part of the try to remove or discard the tently, possibly injuring someone owner's manual. airbag by yourself. This must be very seriously. done by a Honda dealer. Tell anyone who works on your car If the SRS indicator light alerts that you have a supplemental you of a problem. Have the restraint system. Failure to follow supplemental restraint system the procedures and precautions in checked as soon as possible. the official Honda service manual Otherwise, your airbag might not could result in personal injury or inflate when you need it. damage to the system.

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

Driver and Passenger Safety Additional Safety Information

The seat belts and airbag 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 passenger to get the most protec- child, could open a door and In addition, you should know that tion from the seat belts. accidentally fall out. Also, there is a sitting upright, locking the doors, greater chance of being thrown out and stowing things properly can If you recline a seat-back, you of the car during a crash when the also increase your safety and reduce the protective capability of doors are not locked. possibly even save your life. your seat 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 46.

Driver and Passenger Safety 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 animal will be safest in a pet carrier first securely store or tie down any you are driving. An unrestrained with rigid sides. Choose a style that items that could be thrown around pet can interfere with your ability allows you to secure it to the car's the car and hurt someone, or to drive the car. In a crash or seat by routing a seat belt through interfere with your ability to sudden stop, loose pets or cages can the carrier's handle. operate the controls. be thrown around inside the car and hurt you. It is also for then- For further information, contact Be sure to keep compartment doors safety that pets should be properly your veterinarian or local animal closed when the car is moving. If a restrained in your car. protection society. passenger hits the door of an open glove box, for example, he could The recommended way to restrain injure his knees. a medium-sized or larger dog is with a special traveling harness. This harness can be secured to the seat with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are available at pet stores.

Driver and Passenger Safety Child Safety

Where Should Children Sit? We recommend that, you secure An infant or child who is not your child's infant or toddler seat in properly restrained can be the passenger's seat with the car's killed or seriously injured in a lap/shoulder belt and a locking clip crash. (see page 18).

Be sure any child too small for We also recommend that a child seat belts is properly secured who has outgrown a toddler seat be in a child restraint. protected by properly wearing the lap/shoulder belt (see page 18).

Children depend on adults to protect them. To help make sure we do, every state and Canadian province has laws requiring infants and young children to be properly restrained whenever they ride in a car.

Driver and Passenger Safety Child Safety

Important Safety Reminders General Guidelines for To properly route a seat belt Never hold a baby or child on your Restraining Children Under through a child seat, follow the seat lap when riding in a car. If you are 18 kg (40 lbs) maker's instructions. You must use wearing your seat belt, the violent Use an approved child seat. The seat a locking clip with a lap/shoulder forces created during a crash will must meet Federal Motor Vehicle belt (see page 18). tear the child from your arms. The Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS-213) child could be seriously hurt or or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Secure the child in the child seat. killed. Standards. Look for the manufac- Make sure the infant or child is turer's statement of compliance on firmly secured to the child seat. If you are holding a child and not the box and seat. Use the straps provided, and wearing a seat belt in a crash, you carefully follow the manufacturer's could crush the child against the Use a seat of the right size. Make instructions. car's interior. sure the seat fits your child. Check the seat manufacturer's instruc- Never put your seat belt over tions and labels for height and yourself and a child. During a crash, weight limits. the belt could press deep into the child, causing serious internal Secure the child seat to the car. All injuries. approved child seats are designed to be secured to the car seat by the Two children should never use the lap belt portion of a lap/shoulder same seat belt. If they do, they belt. A child whose seat is not could be very seriously injured in a properly secured to the car can be crash. endangered in a crash.

Driver and Passenger Safety Child Safety

Restraining an Infant Who We recommend that you put the Restraining a Child Who Weighs Less Than 9 kg infant seat in the passenger's seat Weighs Between 9 and 18 kg (20 lbs) and secure it to the car with the (20 and 40 lbs) lap/shoulder belt. You must use a locking clip with the car's lap/shoulder belt (see page 18).

An infant up to about 9 kg (20 lbs) Toddler seats are designed for must be restrained in an infant seat children who weigh between 9 and or a convertible seat designed for a 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs). baby. Because infants must ride in The toddler seat should be secured a reclining position, be sure the to the passenger's seat with the lap/ infant seat always faces the REAR shoulder belt. You must use a of the car as shown. locking clip with the lap/shoulder belt (see page 18).

Driver and Passenger Safety Child Safety

Restraining a Child Who Put the seat belt on your child and Using a Seat Belt Locking Weighs Over 18 kg (40 Ibs) check its fit. The shoulder belt Clip should fit over the collarbone and Always use a seat belt locking clip across the chest. The lap belt when you secure a child seat to should sit low on your child's hips, your car with a lap/shoulder belt. not across the stomach. This helps prevent the seat from shifting position or overturning. If the shoulder belt crosses the neck, you should use a booster seat. A locking clip is usually included with the child seat. If you need a Several styles of booster seats are clip, contact the seat's manufac- available. We recommend a design turer or a store that sells child that allows the child to use the car's restraints. lap/shoulder belt. We recommend that a child who Whichever style you select, follow has outgrown a toddler seat be the booster seat manufacturer's protected by properly wearing the instructions. lap/shoulder belt.

Driver and Passenger Safety Child Safety

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

1. Place the child restraint in the desired position. Route the lap/ shoulder belt through the restraint according to the seat manufacturer'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. 3. Tightly grasp the belt near the Position the clip as close as latch plate. Pinch both parts of possible to the latch plate. Your Honda is equipped with an the belt together so they won't attachment point for a child slip through the latch plate. Un- 5. Insert the latch plate into the restraint system that uses a top buckle the seat belt. buckle. Push and pull on the tether. The tether attachment child seat to verify that it is held point is located on the panel behind firmly in place. If it is not, repeat the passenger's seat-back. these steps until the restraint is secure. 1. Adjust the passenger's seat fully forward to make room behind the seat-back. CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety Child Safety

2. Remove the plug with a small Storing a Child Seat flat-tipped screw driver or Canadian Cars When you are not using an infant fingernail file. seat or other child restraint, either remove it or make sure it is 3. Install the tether hardware that TOOTHED WASHER properly secured so it cannot be came with the child seat. thrown around the car during a Tighten to: crash. 22 N.m (2.2 kg-m,16 Ib-ft)

Make sure to route the tether through the space between the head restraint and seat. If you are not sure how to install the bracket, have it installed by your Honda dealer. The anchor plate and mounting hardware for a top tether are If you need an anchor plate and supplied with the car. When mounting hardware, you can obtain installing, make sure the toothed them by writing to: washer is on the bottom of the bolt. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. The supplied anchor plate is Consumer Affairs designed only for mounting a child 1919 Torrance Blvd. restraint. Do not use it for any Torrance, CA 90501-2746 other purpose.

Driver and Passenger Safety Alcohol and Drugs

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

Driver and Passenger Safety 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 problem with carbon monoxide such as a garage. Do not run the the engine running, adjust the entering the car in normal driving engine with the garage door closed. heating and cooling system as if you maintain your car properly. Even with the door open, run the follows: Have the exhaust system inspected engine only long enough to move for leaks whenever: the car out of the garage. 1. Select the Fresh Air mode. The car is raised for an oil 2. Select the mode. change. With the trunk lid open, air flow 3. Turn the fan on high speed. You notice a change in the sound can pull exhaust gas into your car's 4. Set the temperature control to a of the exhaust. interior and create a hazardous comfortable setting. The car was in an accident that condition. If you must drive with may have damaged the under- the trunk lid open, open all the side. windows and set the heating and cooling system as shown in the next column.

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause uncon- sciousness and can even kill you.

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

Driver and Passenger Safety Reporting Safety Defects (US Cars)

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

Driver and Passenger Safety 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 for a replacement. RADIATOR CAP

BATTERY

Driver and Passenger Safety Instruments and Controls

This section gives information Control Locations...... 26 Keys and Locks...... 43 about the controls and displays that Indicator Lights...... 27 Keys...... 43 contribute to the daily operation of Gauges...... 32 Ignition Switch...... 43 your Honda. All the essential Speedometer...... 32 Door Locks...... 44 controls are within easy reach. Tachometer...... 32 Trunk...... 45 Odometer...... 32 Rear Locking Compartment.... 46 Trip Meter...... 32 Seat Adjustments...... 46 Fuel Gauge...... 33 Power Windows...... 47 Temperature Gauge...... 33 Removable Roof Panel...... 49 Controls Near the Steering Removing and Storing...... 50 Wheel...... 34 Installing...... 51 Headlights...... 35 Roof Holder...... 53 Daytime Running Lights...... 35 Roof Unlatched Indicator...... 53 Instrument Panel Brightness... 36 Mirrors...... 54 Turn Signals...... 36 Parking Brake...... 55 Windshield Wipers...... 37 Glove Box...... 56 Windshield Washers...... 37 Digital Clock...... 56 Auxiliary Lights...... 38 Console Compartment...... 57 Hazard Warning...... 38 Cup Holder...... 57 Rear Window Defogger...... 38 Sun Visor...... 58 Steering Wheel Adjustment..... 39 Cigarette Lighter...... 58 Steering Wheel Controls...... 40 Ashtrays...... 58 Cruise Control...... 40 Interior Light...... 59 Horn...... 42

Instruments and Controls Control Locations

DIGITAL CLOCK HEATING/ (P.56) COOLING CONTROL (P.62)

MIRROR CONTROLS (P.54)

POWER WINDOW SWITCH (P.47)

FUEL FILL HOOD RELEASE DOOR RELEASE HANDLE (P.72) (P.73)

Instruments and Controls Indicator Lights

The instrument panel has many PARKING BRAKE AND indicators to give you important BRAKE SYSTEM LIGHT* information about your car. ROOF AND TRUNK MONITOR HIGH BEAM INDICATOR Lamp Check SUPPLEMENTAL SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT Many of the indicator lights come RESTRAINT SYSTEM CRUISE CONTROL on when you turn the ignition INDICATOR switch ON (II), allowing you to see INDICATOR that they are working. The instru- ment panel should look like the illustration. If an indicator does not light during this test, it cannot alert you if that system develops a prob- lem. Have the dealer check your car for burned-out bulbs or other problems.

* The U.S. instrument panel is CHARGING SYSTEM LIGHT shown. Differences for the Canadi- an model are noted in the text. LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ CHECK ENGINE LIGHT*

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Instruments and Controls Indicator Lights

Seat Belt Reminder Charging System US Canada Parking Brake Light Light and Brake This indicator lights when you turn This light indicates the battery is BRAKE System Light the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder not being charged. It should come This light has two functions: to you and your passenger to on when the ignition is ON (II), and protect yourselves by fastening the go out after the engine starts. If 1. It lights as a reminder that you seat belts. A beeper also sounds if this light comes on while driving, have set the parking brake. you have not fastened your seat the battery is not being charged. Driving with the parking brake belt. Turn to page 159 for information set can damage the brakes and about what to do. tires. If you do not fasten your seat belt, the beeper will stop after a few Low Oil Pressure 2. It can indicate the brake fluid seconds but the light stays on until Light level is low if it remains lit after you do. Both the light and the This indicator lights when the oil you release the parking brake or beeper stay off if you fasten your pressure in the engine drops low comes on while driving. This is seat belt before turning on the enough to cause damage. It should normally due to worn brake pads. ignition. light when the ignition is ON (II) Have your dealer check the and go put after the engine starts. braking system for worn pads or If this light comes on when the fluid leaks. engine is running, there is a possi- bility of serious engine damage. Safely pull to the side of the road and shut off the engine as soon as you can. Turn to page 158 for in- structions and precautions on checking the engine.

Instruments and Controls Indicator Lights

Supplemental US Roof and Trunk Monitor S R S Restraint System Malfunction Indicator Indicator Lamp ROOF UNLATCHED TRUNK OPEN INDICATOR INDICATOR The SRS light normally comes on Canada for a few seconds when you turn the ignition ON (II). If it doesn't, or it stays on after the engine starts, This light comes on for a few something is wrong with the seconds when you turn the ignition Supplemental Restraint System. It switch ON (II). If it comes on at any may also flash on and off to indi- other time, it indicates one of the cate a problem. engine's emission control systems may have a problem. Turn to page REAR WINDOW If you see any of these indications, 160 for information about what to INDICATOR the airbag may not work when do. needed in an accident. Take the car The roof and trunk monitor to your dealer promptly for diag- includes three indicators, the Roof nosis and service. Unlatched Indicator, the Trunk Open Indicator and the Rear Window Indicator.

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Instruments and Controls Indicator Lights

Roof Unlatched Indicator: This Turn Signal and High Beam Indicator indicator lights when you turn the Hazard Warning ignition ON (II) if the roof panel is Indicators This light comes on with the high not fastened securely. Check both The left or right turn signal light beam headlights. See page 35 for release levers to make sure they blinks when you signal a lane information on the headlight are locked. See page 52. change or turn. If the light does not controls. blink or blinks rapidly, it usually Trunk Open Indicator: This means one of the turn signal bulbs On Canadian models, this indicator indicator lights when you turn the is burned out (see page 131). comes on with reduced brightness ignition ON (II) if the trunk is not Replace the bulb as soon as possible, when the Daytime Running Lights closed completely. See page 45. since other drivers cannot see that (DRL) are on (see page 35). you are signalling. Rear Window Indicator: This CRUISE Cruise Control indicator lights with the ignition When you turn on the Hazard CONTROL Indicator ON (II) when the rear window is Warning switch, both turn signal Only on cars equipped with Cruise opened. lights blink. All turn signals on the Control System outside of the car should flash. This lights when you set the cruise control. See page 40 for informa- tion on operating the cruise control.

Instruments and Controls Indicator Lights

Shift Lever Position Indicator (Automatic Transmission only)

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

Instruments and Controls Gauges

TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER ODOMETER Odometer The odometer shows the total dis- tance your car has been driven. It measures miles in U.S. models and kilometers in Canadian models. It is illegal under federal law (in the U.S.) and provincial regulations (in Canada) to alter the odometer with the intent to change the number of miles or kilometers indicated.

Trip Meter TRIP METER TRIP METER This meter shows the number of RESET BUTTON miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada) Speedometer Tachometer driven since you last reset it. To U.S. Models The tachometer shows the engine reset it, push the trip meter reset This shows your speed in miles per speed in revolutions per minute button. hour. The smaller inner numbers (rpm). To protect the engine from are the speed in kilometers per damage, never drive with the hour. tachometer needle in the red zone. Canadian Models This shows your speed in kilo- meters per hour (km/h). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in miles per hour (mph).

Instruments and Controls Gauges

FUEL GAUGE Temperature Gauge This shows the temperature of the engine's coolant. During normal operation, the pointer should rise from the bottom white mark to about the middle of the gauge. In severe driving conditions, such as very hot weather or a long period of uphill driving, the pointer may rise to the upper white mark. If it reaches the red (Hot) mark, pull safely to the side of the road. Turn to page 156 for instructions and TEMPERATURE GAUGE precautions on checking the Fuel Gauge engine's cooling system. This shows how much fuel you The gauge stays at the same fuel have. It is most accurate when the level reading after you turn off the car is on level ground. It may show ignition. When you add fuel, the slightly more or less than the actual gauge slowly changes to the new amount when you are driving on reading after you turn the ignition curvy or hilly roads. back ON (II).

Instruments and Controls Controls Near the Steering Wheel

The two levers on the steering AUXILIARY CRUISE REAR WINDOW HAZARD column contain controls for driving LIGHT CONTROL DEFOGGER WARNING features you use most often. The LIGHTS left lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams. The right lever controls the windshield wipers.

The rear window defogger and hazard warning light switches are on the right edge of the dash above the instrument panel. On the US Si model There is cruise control switch on the left edge.

The instrument panel brightness control is on the instrument panel between the tachometer and the safety indicator.

The lever on the underside of the steering column allows you to tilt the steering wheel. HEADLIGHTS/ TILT ADJUSTMENT WINDSHIELD TURN SIGNALS WIPERS/WASHERS

Instruments and Controls Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Headlights To flash the high beams, pull back and hold the turn signal lever. Release the lever and the high beams will go off.

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 To change between low beams and reduced brightness when you turn lever controls the lights. Turning high beams, pull back on the turn the ignition switch to ON (II) and this switch to the first position signal lever until you hear a click, release the parking brake. They turns on the parking lights, tail then let go. The blue high beam remain on until you turn the lights, instrument panel lights, indicator will light (see page 30). ignition off, even if you set the side-marker lights, and rear license parking brake. plate lights. Turning the switch to the second position turns on The headlights revert to normal the headlights. operation when you turn them on with the switch.

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Instruments and Controls Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instrument Panel Brightness Turn Signals To signal a lane change, push lightly on the turn signal lever in the proper direction and hold it. The lever will return to the center position as soon as you release it.

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS KNOB TURN SIGNAL LEVER The knob on the instrument panel Signal a turn or lane change with controls the brightness of the this lever. Push down on the lever instrument panel lights. Turn the to signal a left turn, and up to knob to adjust the brightness. signal a right turn. If you push it up or down all the way, the turn signal continues to blink even when you release the lever. It shuts off auto- matically as you complete the turn.

Instruments and Controls 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 shield wipers and washers. The push the control lever down. The on the wiper control lever. The rotary switch at the end of the wipers run at high speed until you washers spray until you release the lever has three positions: release the lever. This gives you a lever. INT — intermittent quick way to clear the windshield. LO — low speed On Canadian models HI — high speed The wipers run at low speed while In intermittent, the wipers operate you're pulling the lever, then every few seconds. In low speed complete one more sweep of the and high speed, the wipers run windshield after you release it. continuously.

Instruments and Controls Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Auxiliary Lights Hazard Warning Rear Window Defogger

Push the switch to operate the Push the red button on the dash The rear window defogger will auxiliary lights. The auxiliary above the instrument panel to turn clear fog, frost, and thin ice from lights will light only when the on the hazard warning lights (four- the window. Push the defogger headlights are on at low beam. The way flashers). This causes all four button to turn it on and off. The indicator will come on when the outside turn signals and both light in the button lights to show auxiliary lights are on. indicators in the instrument panel the defogger is on. If you do not to flash. Use the hazard warning turn it off, the defogger will shut lights if you need to park in a itself off after about 25 minutes. It dangerous area near heavy traffic, also shuts off when you turn off the or if your car is disabled. ignition. You have to turn it on again when you restart the car.

Instruments and Controls Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Make sure the rear window is clear Steering Wheel Adjustment and you have good visibility before You can adjust the steering wheel starting to drive. height to suit your preference. Do this before you begin driving. The defogger wires on the inside of the rear window can be acciden- tally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side to side. Adjusting the steering wheel position while driving may cause you to lose control of the car and be seriously injured in a crash.

Adjust the steering wheel only 3. Move the steering wheel up or when the car is stopped. down to the desired position. Position the wheel so you can see all the instrument panel gauges 1. Adjust the seat so you are a and warning lights. Push the comfortable distance from the lever up to lock the steering pedals. wheel in that position.

2. The lever to tilt the steering 4. Make sure you have securely wheel is under the steering locked the steering wheel in column to the left. Push this place by trying to move it up and lever all the way down. down.

Instruments and Controls Steering Wheel Controls

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

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

Instruments and Controls Steering Wheel Controls

Changing the Set Speed Tap the brake or clutch pedal You can increase the set cruising lightly with your foot. The speed in either of two ways: CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out. Press and hold the RESUME/ When the car slows to the accel button. The car will desired speed, press the SET/ accelerate slowly. When you decel button. The car will then reach the desired cruising speed, maintain the desired speed. release the button. Even with the cruise control turned RESUME/ Push on the accelerator pedal. Ac- on, you can still use the accelerator accel celerate to the desired cruising pedal to speed up for passing. After speed and press the SET/decel completing the pass, take your foot SET/decel button. off the accelerator pedal. The car 3. Press and hold the SET/decel will return to the set cruising speed. button on the steering wheel You can decrease the set cruising Resting your foot on the brake or until the CRUISE CONTROL speed in either of two ways: clutch pedal will cause the cruise light on the instrument panel control to cancel. comes on. This shows the system Press and hold the SET/decel is now activated. button. The car will decelerate. Release the button when you The set speed may vary slightly, reach the desired speed. particularly on hills.

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Instruments and Controls Steering Wheel Controls

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

Instruments and Controls Keys and Locks

Keys The keys have a code number Ignition Switch stamped on one side. You will need this number if you have to get a lost key replaced. Record this number and keep it in a safe place.

Your car comes with two identical The ignition switch is on the right keys. side of the steering column. It has They fit all the locks on your car: four positions: LOCK (0), ACCES- Ignition SORY (I), ON(II), and START (III). Doors Trunk Fuel filler door release handle Rear locking compartment

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Instruments and Controls Keys and Locks

LOCK (0) — You can insert or ACCESSORY (I) — In this Door Locks remove the key only in this position. position, you can operate the audio When you turn the key from LOCK system 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 push the key in slightly as you turn usable. Several of the lights on the it. If your car has an automatic instrument panel come on as a test transmission, it must also be in when you turn the ignition switch Park. The anti-theft lock will lock from ACCESSORY to ON (see the steering column when you page 27). remove the key. LOCK TAB START (III) — Use this position only to start the engine. The switch Each door has a lock tab next to returns to ON when you let go of the inside door handle. Push the tab Removing the key from the the key. in to lock the door and pull it out to ignition switch while driving unlock. locks the steering. This can You will hear a reminder beeper if cause you to lose control. you open either front door with the To lock the passenger's door when key in the LOCK or ACCESSORY getting out of the car, push the lock Remove the key from the igni- position. Remove the key to turn it tab in and close the door. To lock tion switch only when parked. off. the driver's door, pull the door handle and push the lock tab in. Release the handle then close the door.

Instruments and Controls Keys and Locks

Trunk

ROOF HOLDER

KEY The doors can also be locked and Open the trunk by putting the key You cannot put any luggage in the unlocked from the outside with the in the lock and turning it clockwise. trunk without lifting up the roof key. holder when the roof is stored in Keep the trunk closed at all times the trunk. while driving to avoid damaging Make sure to lock the roof holder the trunk and getting exhaust gas before closing the trunk lid. in the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 22.

Instruments and Controls Keys and Locks, Seat Adjustments

Rear Locking Compartment Seat Adjustments

To open either rear locking Adjust the seat before you start To change the angle of the seat- compartment, put the key in the driving. back, pull up on the lever on the lock, turn it counterclockwise and To adjust the seat forward and outside of the seat bottom. Move lift the lid up. backward, pull up on the lever the seat-back to the desired Push the lid to close. Turn the key under the seat cushion's front edge. position and release the lever. Let clockwise to lock the box. Move the seat to the desired the seat-back latch in the new position and release the lever. Try position. to move the seat to make sure it is locked in position.

Instruments and Controls Seat Adjustments, Power Windows

Power Windows MAIN SWITCH Your car's windows are electri- Reclining the seat-back can cally-powered. Turn the ignition decrease the protection you switch to ON (II) to raise or lower get from your seat belt in a any window. crash. Each door has a switch that You can slide under the seat controls its window. The rear belt and be seriously injured. window switch is located in the master control panel on the driver's Adjust the seat-back to an armrest. To open the window, push upright position and sit well the switch down and hold it. back in the seat. Release the switch when you want DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH the window to stop. Close the To open the passenger's window or window by pushing the switch up rear window from the master and holding it. control panel, push down on the appropriate switch and hold it down until the window reaches the desired position. To close the window, push up on the window switch. Release the switch when the window gets to the position you want.

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Instruments and Controls Power Windows

The master control panel also con- The MAIN switch controls power tains these extra features: to the passenger's and rear windows. With this switch off, the Closing a power window on a AUTO — To open the driver's passenger's and rear windows child's hands or fingers can window fully, push the window cannot be raised or lowered. The cause serious injury. switch firmly down and release it. MAIN switch does not affect the The window automatically goes all driver's window. Keep the MAIN Make sure your children are the way down. To stop the window switch off when you have children away from the windows from going all the way down, push in the car so they do not injure before closing them. the window switch up briefly. themselves by operating the windows unintentionally. To open the driver's window only partially, push the window switch down lightly and hold it. The window will stop as soon as you release the switch.

The AUTO function only works to lower the driver's window. To raise the window, you must push the window switch up and hold it until the window reaches the desired position.

Instruments and Controls Removable Roof Panel

Your Honda's roof panel has a single release handle on each side, making it easy to remove and install. When not in use, the roof can be stored in a special holder in the trunk. Always clean and dry the roof panel before you remove it so dirt and water do not fall in the interior and trunk.

Make sure any items you store in the trunk will not tumble around and damage the roof panel. One person should be able to remove and install the roof panel. Although the panel is not very heavy, you may find it awkward to handle because of its size. If so, get someone to assist you so you do not damage the panel.

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Instruments and Controls Removable Roof Panel

Removing and Storing

Front

ROOF LOCKS LOCK TAB RELEASE LEVER 1. Open both windows. 4. Release each side of the roof by 5. Place the roof in the roof holder pushing the lock tab sideways with the front facing forward. 2. Turn off the engine and set the and pulling down the release parking brake. lever. Carefully, lift the roof straight up. 3. Open the trunk. Push on the roof holder to make sure it is locked in place. Unlock the roof locks by pivoting them forward.

Instruments and Controls Removable Roof Panel

Installing 1. Open both windows. 2. Turn off the engine and set the parking brake.

3. Open the trunk.

TAB LOCK LEVER 4. Release the roof from the holder 6. Lock the roof in the holder by by pushing the tabs and pivoting pivoting the lock levers toward the lock levers forward. the back of the car.

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Instruments and Controls Removable Roof Panel

5. Lift the roof out of the holder. 6. Set the roof in place on the car. 7. Secure the roof by turning each Make sure the release levers are Make sure all four corners are release lever until the lock tab in the unlocked (down) position. sitting flush with the car body. clicks forward. Pull on the levers to make sure they are locked.

Instruments and Controls Removable Roof Panel

Roof Holder Roof Unlatched Indicator

ROOF UNLATCHED INDICATOR

To reach items in the trunk when To secure the roof holder, push This indicator lights when you turn the roof is stored, pull the roof down on it until it locks. Make sure the ignition ON (II) if the roof panel holder lock lever and lift the holder. it is locked so it will not rattle or is not fastened securely. Check damage the trunk lid. both release levers to make sure they are locked.

Instruments and Controls Mirrors

Mirrors Adjusting the Power Mirrors SELECTOR SWITCH

TAB

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH Keep the inside and outside mirrors Available only on Si model 3. Push the appropriate edge of the clean and adjusted for best visibili- Adjust the outside mirrors with the adjustment switch to move the ty. Be sure to adjust the mirrors adjustment switch on the driver's mirror right or left, up or down. before you start driving. door: 4. When you finish, move the The inside mirror has day and 1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). selector switch to the center (off) night positions. The night position position. This turns off the reduces glare from headlights 2. Move the selector switch to L adjustment switch so you can't behind you. Flip the tab on the (driver's side) or R (passenger's move a mirror out of position by bottom edge of the mirror to select side). accidentally bumping it. the day or night position.

Instruments and Controls Mirrors, Parking Brake

Parking Brake NOTICE Driving the car with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER The outside mirror on the passen- To apply the parking brake, pull ger's side has curved glass. Objects the lever up fully. To release it, pull look farther away than they are. up slightly, push the button, and Use this mirror to get a "wide lower the lever. The parking brake view". Don't use it to judge the dis- light on the instrument panel tance of things behind you. should go out when the parking brake is fully released (see page 28).

Instruments and Controls Glove Box, Digital Clock

Glove Box Digital Clock 3. To set the minutes, press and hold the M button until the numbers advance to the desired minute or minutes.

You can use the R button to quickly set the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed time is before the half hour, pressing the R button sets the clock back to the previous hour. If the displayed time is after the half hour, pressing the R button sets the clock forward to the GLOVE BOX beginning of the next hour. Open the glove box by pulling the The digital clock displays the time handle. Close it with a firm push. with the ignition switch ON (II). For example: To set the clock: 1:06 would RESET backward to 1:00. 1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) 1:52 would RESET forward to An open glove box can cause to display the time. 2:00. serious injury to your passen- ger in a crash, even if the pas- 2. To set the hour, press and hold senger is wearing the seat belt. the H button until the hour advances to the desired hour. Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

Instruments and Controls Console Compartment, Cup Holder

Console Compartment Cup Holder

LOCKING TAB

CONSOLE COMPART- MENT To open the console compartment, The cup holder is located inside the Use the cup holder only when the pull up the edge of the driver's side. center console compartment lid. To car is parked. If you place cups in To close, lower the lid and push it use the cup holder, open the center the holder while driving, the liquid down until it latches. console compartment. Pull the cup may spill when you go over bumps holder out while pushing the or around corners. locking tab. Be careful when you are using the cup 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 passenger.

Instruments and Controls Sun Visor, Cigarette Lighter, Ashtrays

Sun Visor Cigarette Lighter Ashtrays

CIGARETTE

LIGHTER ASHTRAY Use of the sun visors will help cut The cigarette lighter is next to the Open the ashtray by lifting the lid off annoying glare while driving. ashtray under the ashtray lid. The up. To remove it for emptying, To use the sun visor, pull it down. ignition switch must be in open the lid then pull it straight out. ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for the cigarette lighter to work. To heat up the lighter, push it in. It will pop out 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 Ashtrays, Interior Light

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

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

Instruments and Controls Comfort and Convenience Features

The heating/ventilation system in Heating and Cooling...... 62 your car, when combined with the What Each Control Does...... 64 optional air conditioning, provides a How to Use the System...... 65 comfortable driving environment in Controlling Air Flow all weather conditions. Direction...... 65 Ventilation...... 65 To Cool with A/C...... 66 To Dehumidify and Defog with A/C...... 67 To Heat...... 68 To Defrost...... 68 To Turn Everything off...... 68

Comfort and Convenience Features Heating and Cooling

This system has full heating, ventilation, and air conditioning CENTER VENT CORNER VENT (optional) capabilities. 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.

A Genuine Honda air conditioning system is available from your dealer. It meets Honda's high quality standards and is designed to fit your car. If you purchased your The direction of air flow from the The corner vents can be closed by car without air conditioning, it can vents in the center of the dash- turning the vent approximately 45° be installed at any time. Please board and corner vents is adjusta- to the right. contact your dealer for more ble. Move the tab in the center of information. each vent up-and-down and side-to- side.

Comfort and Convenience Features Heating and Cooling

The heating and cooling system draws air through the exterior vents at the bottom of the wind- shield. Keep these vents clear of leaves and other debris.

Comfort and Convenience Features Heating and Cooling

What Each Control Does MODE BUTTONS RECIRCULATION Fan Control Dial BUTTON Turning this dial clockwise increases the fan speed, which 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 FAN CONTROL TEMPERATURE AIR CONDITIONING of air flow. The indicator light DIAL CONTROL LEVER SWITCH shows which button is controlling air flow. Recirculation Button between recirculated and fresh air. Air Conditioning (A/C) Switch This button controls the source of This switch turns the air condi- air going into the system. When the tioning ON and OFF. The indicator indicator in this button is lit, the in the switch lights when the A/C is system is recirculating the interior ON. 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 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 cooling, dehumidifying, defrosting uses engine coolant to warm the air. car through vents in front of the and heating. In most cases, the If the engine is cold, it will be sever- windshield. It circulates through mode and air source selections are al minutes before you feel warm air the interior then exits through the only recommendations. You may circulating. rear panel. This system provides prefer different settings. fresh air even when the car is The air conditioning system does standing still. To bring in outside Use Recirculation mode to heat or not depend on engine temperature. air, select the Fresh Air mode. Set cool the interior more quickly, or to It can produce cold air almost the fan at a comfortable speed. keep out smoke and dust. Leaving immediately. the system in the recirculation mode with the A/C off can cause Controlling Air Flow Direction the windows to fog up. Switch to Air flows into the interior at three Fresh Air mode as soon as the levels: Toward the floor interior reaches a comfortable through the dash vents and temperature or the outside smoky, toward the windshield and side dusty condition clears. windows You select the air flow level or combination of levels with the five mode buttons.

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Comfort and Convenience Features Heating and Cooling

To Cool with A/C (Optional) To operate the air conditioning MODE BUTTONS system, press the air conditioning switch. Set the fan to the desired 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 FAN CONTROL TEMPERATURE AIR CONDITIONING switch. DIAL CONTROL LEVER SWITCH 3. Set the fan to maximum speed. 4. Open the windows partially. Select the Recirculation mode Air conditioning places an extra and load on the engine. Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge When the interior reaches a com- (see page 33) when using the A/C fortable temperature, close the in heavy traffic or driving up long windows and set the system for hills. If it moves near the red zone, cooling as described above. turn off the air conditioning until the gauge reads normally.

Comfort and Convenience Features Heating and Cooling

To Dehumidify and Defog with A/C MODE BUTTONS Air conditioning removes moisture from the air as it operates. You can use it to defog the windows quickly in cool or damp weather. Used in combination with the heater, it also makes the interior warm and dry. This setting is best for all driving conditions whenever the outside temperature is above 32°F (0°C).

1. Set the fan to a medium speed. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. FAN CONTROL TEMPERATURE AIR CONDITIONING 3. Select any desired mode button; DIAL CONTROL LEVER SWITCH is usually best. 4. Adjust the temperature control lever so the mixture of heated and cooled air is at a comfortable temperature.

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Comfort and Convenience Features Heating and Cooling

To Heat To Defrost To Turn Everything Off To warm the interior, press To remove frost or ice from the To shut off the system temporarily, and select the Fresh Air windshield and side windows after turn the fan control dial off and mode. Set the fan to the desired the car has been sitting out in cold slide the temperature control levers speed. Adjust the warmth of the air weather. all the way to the left. with the temperature control lever. 1. Start the engine. 2. Select the Recirculation mode You should shut the system To warm the interior rapidly after and completely off only for the first few the car has been sitting out in cold 3. Set the fan and temperature minutes of driving in cold weather, weather. controls to maximum. until the engine coolant warms up enough to operate the heater. Keep 1. Start the engine. These settings direct all the air the fan on at all other times so stale 2. Select the Recirculation mode flow to the defroster vents at the air does not build up in the interior. and base of the windshield and the side 3. Slide the temperature control window defroster vents. The air lever to maximum heat. flow will get warmer and clear the 4. Leave the fan OFF for the first windows faster as the engine few minutes. When the tempera- warms up. You can close the ture gauge rises above the bot- corner vents by turning them 45° tom white mark, set the fan to clockwise. That will send more medium speed. warm air to the windshield 5. When the ulterior warms up, defroster vents. switch to fresh air mode and adjust the temperature control For safety, make sure you have a lever to a comfortable setting. clear view through all the windows before driving away.

Comfort and Convenience Features Before Driving

Before you begin driving your Break-in Period...... 70 Honda, you should know what gaso- Gasoline...... 70 line to use, and how to check the Oxygenated Fuels...... 70 levels of important fluids. You also Driving in Foreign Countries... 71 need to know how to properly stow Service Station Procedures...... 72 luggage or packages. This section Filling the Fuel Tank...... 72 will help you. If you plan to add any Opening the Hood...... 73 accessories to your car, please read Fuel Economy...... 76 the information in this section first. Vehicle Condition...... 76 Driving Habits...... 76 Accessories...... 77 Loading Cargo...... 78

Before Driving Break-in Period, Gasoline

Break-in Period Gasoline Oxygenated Fuels Help assure your car's future Your Honda operates most effec- Some conventional gasolines are reliability and performance by tively on unleaded gasoline with a being blended with alcohol or an paying extra attention to how you pump octane number of 86 or ether compound. These gasolines drive during the first 1,000 km (600 higher. Use of a lower octane are collectively referred to as miles). gasoline can cause a persistent, oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air During this period: heavy metallic rapping noise in the standards, some areas of the engine that can lead to mechanical United States and Canada use Avoid full-throttle starts and damage. oxygenated fuels to help reduce rapid acceleration. emissions. We recommend gasolines con- If you need to add oil, use the taining detergent additives that If you use an oxygenated fuel, be engine oil recommended in this help prevent fuel system and sure it is unleaded and meets the owner's manual. engine deposits. minimum octane rating require- ment. Avoid hard braking. New brakes Using gasoline containing lead will need to be broken-in by moderate damage your car's emission Before using an oxygenated fuel, use for the first 300 km (200 controls. This contributes to air try to confirm the fuel's contents. miles). pollution and can void certain parts Some states/provinces require this of your warranty. information to be posted on the You should follow these same re- pump. commendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are relined.

Before Driving Gasoline

The following are the EPA- If you notice any undesirable Driving in Foreign Countries approved percentages of oxygen- operating symptoms, try another Using any type of leaded gasoline ates: service station or switch to another in your Honda will affect perform- ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) brand of gasoline. ance and damage its emission con- You may use gasoline containing trols. Unleaded gasoline may not be up to 10% ethanol by volume. Fuel system damage or perfor- available in other countries. If you Gasoline containing ethanol may be mance problems resulting from the are planning to take your car out- marketed under the name "Gasohol.' use of an oxygenated fuel con- side the U.S. or Canada, write to taining more than the percentages Honda at the address shown for MTBE (methyl Tertiary Butyl of oxygenates given above are not information about any modifica- Ether) covered under warranty. tions your car may need. Be sure to You may use gasoline containing include the year and model of your up to 15% MTBE by volume. car.

METHANOL (methyl or wood U.S. Owners: alcohol) American Honda Motor Co., Inc. You may use gasoline containing Consumer Affairs up to 5% methanol by volume as 1919 Torrance Blvd. long as it also contains cosolvents Torrance, CA 90501-2746 and corrosion inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline con- Canadian Owners: taining more than 5% methanol by Honda Canada Inc. volume may cause starting and/or 715 Milner Ave. performance problems. It may also Scarborough, Ontario M1B 2K8 damage metal, rubber and plastic parts of your fuel system.

Before Driving Service Station Procedures

Filling the Fuel Tank 3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as Handing gasoline improperly pressure inside the tank escapes. Pull can cause it to ignite or ex- plode, causing you to be seri- 4. Stop filling the tank after the ously or fatally injured. fuel pump automatically clicks off. Do not try to "top off" the Always put out cigarettes and tank, leave some room for the other smoking materials, and fuel to expand with temperature keep all sparks and open changes. flames away when you are around gasoline. 5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on, tighten it until it clicks. 1. The fuel fill is on the outside of 6. Push the fuel fill door until it the driver's side of the car. Park latches. with that side closest to the service station pumps.

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

FUEL FILL CAP

Before Driving Service Station Procedures

Opening the Hood

LATCH

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE The fuel fill opener handle is 1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set 2. Standing in front of the car, put lockable with the key. Turn the the parking brake. Pull the hood your fingers under the front edge key counterclockwise to lock and release handle, located under the of the hood to the right of center. clockwise to unlock. left lower corner of the dash- Slide your hand to the right until board. The hood will pop up you feel the hood latch handle. slightly. Push this handle to the right until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.

CONTINUED

Before Driving Service Station Procedures

Oil Check

SUPPORT ROD DIPSTICK 3. Pull the support rod out of its clip Check the engine oil level every 2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean and insert the end into the hole time you fill the car with gas. Wait cloth or paper towel. on the driver's side of the hood. at least two minutes after turning the engine off before you check the To close the hood, lift it up slightly oil. to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into 1. Remove the dipstick (orange its holding clip. Lower the hood to handle). about a foot above the fender, then let it drop.

Before Driving Service Station Procedures

Engine Coolant Check RESERVE TANK

MAX

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK MIN

3.Insert it all the way back in its 4. Remove it again and check the Look at the coolant level in the tube. level. It should be between the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it upper and lower marks. is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see If it is near or below the lower Adding Coolant on page 105 for mark, see page 102 for information information on adding the proper on the proper oil and how to add it. coolant.

Refer to Periodic Checks on page 99 for information on check- ing other items in your Honda.

Before Driving 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 driving moderately. Rapid acceler- "warm-up" a cold engine by letting fuel mileage you get. ation, abrupt cornering, and hard it idle for a long time. You can braking use more fuel. drive away in about a minute, no Vehicle Condition matter how cold it is outside. The Always maintain your car accord- Always drive in the highest gear engine will warm up faster, and you ing to the maintenance schedule. that allows the engine to run and get better fuel economy. To cut This will keep it in top operating accelerate smoothly. down on the number of "cold starts," condition. try to combine several short trips Depending on traffic conditions, try into one. An important part of that mainte- to maintain a constant speed. Every nance is the Periodic Checks time you slow down and speed up, The air conditioning puts an extra (see page 99 ). For example an your car uses extra fuel. Use the load on the engine which makes it underinflated tire causes more cruise control, when appropriate, to use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to "rolling resistance," which uses increase fuel economy. cut down on air conditioning use. fuel. It also wears out faster, so Use the flow-through ventilation check the tire pressure at least when the outside air temperature is monthly. In winter, the build-up of moderate. snow on your car's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

Before Driving 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 sys- designed for universal applications. and two-way radios are regulated tems, alloy wheels, air conditioning, Although they may fit your Honda, by the FCC and should not inter- and color-coordinated carpet floor they may not be within factory fere with your car's systems. mats. All Genuine Honda Acces- specifications. For example, after- Improper installation, or using sories have been approved by our market wheels may not meet electrical equipment not intended engineers for installation and use Honda's specifications for width for mobile use may interfere with on your car, and are covered by and offset. They could cause sus- your car's operation. If you want to warranty. For a complete guide to pension problems which would not install a cellular telephone, other the Genuine Honda Accessories be covered by your warranty. Im- mobile communications equipment available, see your dealer for a 1993 properly-designed accessories can or even add-on stereo amplifiers, Accessories brochure. adversely affect your car's han- please discuss it first with your dling and stability. Honda dealer.

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

Before Driving Loading Cargo

The maximum load you can carry This final number is the total If you must carry large objects that in your Honda is 185 kg (400 Ibs). It weight of cargo you can load in or prevent you from closing the trunk includes the total weight of all on the car. With two occupants (a lid, be aware that exhaust gas can passengers and their belongings, driver and a passenger), the enter the interior. See Carbon and any accessories. This 185 kg maximum recommended weight Monoxide Hazard on page 22 . (400 Ibs) figure is shown as the for cargo is 45 kg (100 Ibs). Vehicle Capacity Weight on the tire information label attached to Where you store this cargo, and the inside of the glove box. how well you secure it, are just as important as how much it weighs. To figure out how much cargo you Make sure you load cargo so it will can carry: not shift while driving. When storing items in the trunk, place Figure the total "occupant them as far forward as possible. weight" you will be transporting. To do this, multiply yourself and Never place items on top of the your passenger by 70 kg (150 Ibs). rear locking compartments behind Subtract this number from the the seats. Those items can fly Vehicle Capacity Weight (185 kg/ forward and injure you or your 400 Ibs). passenger if you brake hard or are involved in a collision.

Before Driving Driving

This section gives you tips on Preparing to Drive...... 80 starting the engine under various Starting the Engine...... 81 conditions, and how to operate the 5-speed Manual manual and automatic transmis- Transmission...... 81 sions. It also includes important Automatic Transmission...... 81 information on your car's braking Starting in Cold Weather system. at High Altitude...... 82 5-speed Manual Transmission..... 83 Recommended Shift Points...... 84 Maximum Speeds...... 84 Automatic Transmission...... 84 Shift Lever Positions...... 84 Maximum Speeds...... 87 Shift Lock Release...... 87 The Braking System...... 88 Brake Wear Indicators...... 89 Brake System Design...... 89 Driving in Bad Weather...... 90 Towing a Trailer...... 91

Driving Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checks 4. Check the adjustment of the seat 9. Turn the ignition ON (II). Check and adjustments every day before (see page 46). the indicator lights in the instru- you drive your car. ment panel. 5. Check the adjustment of the 1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, inside and outside mirrors (see 10.Start the engine. and outside lights are clean and page 54). unobstructed. Remove frost, 11.Check the gauges and indicator snow, or ice. 6. Check the adjustment of the lights in the instrument panel steering wheel (see page 39). (see page 27). 2. Check that the hood and trunk are fully closed, and the roof 7. Make sure the doors are securely panel is secured. closed and locked.

3. Check that any items you may be 8. Fasten your seat belt. Check that carrying with you inside are your passenger's seat belt is stored properly or fastened down fastened (see page 7). securely.

Driving Starting the Engine

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

CONTINUED

Driving Starting the Engine

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

Driving 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 stowing or speeding-up reverse with the car moving. can cause loss of control on Depress the clutch pedal and pause slippery surfaces. If you crash, for a few seconds before putting it you can be injured. in reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This Use extra care when driving on stops the gears so they won't slippery surfaces. "grind".

You can get extra braking from the engine when slowing down by The manual transmission is syn- shifting to a lower gear. This extra chronized in all forward gears for braking can help you maintain a smooth operation. It has a lockout safe speed and prevent your brakes so you cannot shift directly from from overheating while going down Fifth to Reverse. When shifting up a steep hill. Before downshifting, or down, make sure you push the make sure engine speed will not go clutch pedal down all the way, shift into the red zone in the lower gear. to the next gear, and let the pedal Refer to the Maximum Speeds up gradually. When you are not chart. shifting, do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal. This can cause your clutch to wear out faster.

Driving 5-speed Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission

Recommended Shift Points Maximum Speeds Automatic Transmission Drive in the highest gear that lets The speeds in this table are the Your Honda's transmission has the engine run and accelerate maximums for the given gears. If four forward speeds. It has a "lock- smoothly. This will give you the you exceed these speeds, the up" torque converter for better fuel best fuel economy and effective engine speed will enter into the economy. You may feel what seems emissions control. The following tachometer's red zone. If this like another shift when the con- shift points are recommended: occurs, you may feel the engine cut verter locks. in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine's computer Shift Lever Positions controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone.

Driving Automatic Transmission

This display is on the instrument panel. It shows you the position of the shift lever.

You must also press the release button to shift into Park. To avoid SHIFT LEVER Park (P) — This position mechani- transmission damage, come to a The shift lever has seven positions. cally locks the transmission. Use complete stop before shifting into It must be in Park or Neutral to Park whenever you are turning off Park. The shift lever must be in start the engine. When you are or starting the engine. To shift out Park before you can remove the stopped in D4, D3, 2,1 or R, press of Park, you must press on the key from the ignition switch. firmly on the brake pedal and keep brake pedal and have your foot off your foot off the accelerator pedal. the accelerator pedal. Press the If you have done all of the above release button on the side of the and still cannot move the lever out shift lever to move it. of Park, see Shift Lock Release on page 87 . CONTINUED

Driving Automatic Transmission

Reverse (R) — To shift to Re- Drive (D3) — This position is simi- hills. Use second gear when start- verse from Park, see the explana- lar to D4, except only the first three ing out on a slippery surface or in tion under Park. To shift to Re- gears are selected. Use D3 to deep snow. It will help reduce verse from Neutral, come to a com- provide engine braking when going wheelspin. plete stop and then shift. Press the down a steep hill. D3 can also keep release button before shifting into the transmission from cycling Whenever you move the shift lever Reverse from Neutral. between third and fourth gears in to a lower gear, the transmission stop-and-go driving. downshifts only if the engine's Neutral (N) — Use Neutral if you redline will not be exceeded in the need to restart a stalled engine, or For faster acceleration when in D3 lower gear. if it is necessary to stop briefly with or D4, you can get the transmission the engine idling. Shift to Park posi- to automatically downshift by push- First (1) — To shift from Second tion if you need to leave the car for ing the accelerator pedal to the to First, press the release button on any reason. Press on the brake pe- floor. The transmission will shift the side of the shift lever. With the dal when you are moving the shift down one or two gears, depending lever in this position, the transmis- lever from Neutral to another gear. on your speed. sion locks in First gear. By upshift- ing and downshifting through 1, 2, Drive (D4) — Use this position for Second (2) — To shift to Second, D3 and D4, you can operate this your normal driving. The transmis- press the release button on the side transmission much like a manual sion automatically selects a suita- of the shift lever. This position transmission without a clutch pedal. ble gear for your speed and acceler- locks the transmission in second ation. 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

Driving Automatic Transmission

Maximum Speeds (Si) Shift Lock Release The speeds in this table are the This allows you to move the shift maximums for the given position. lever out of Park if the normal If you exceed these speeds, the method of pushing on the brake engine speed will enter into the pedal and pressing the release tachometer's red zone. If this button does not work. occurs, you will feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a 1. Set the Parking brake. limiter in the engine's computer controls. The engine will run 2. Remove the key from the normally when you reduce the ignition switch. RPM below the red zone. 3. Insert the key in the Shift Lock (S) Release slot next to the shift lever. 4. Push down on the key while you press the release button and move the shift lever out of Park to Neutral.

CONTINUED

Driving Automatic Transmission, The Braking System

RELEASE BUTTON The Braking System Check your brakes after driving Your Honda is equipped with front through deep water. Apply the disc brakes. The brakes on the rear brakes moderately to see if they wheels may be disc or drum, feel normal. If not, apply them depending on model. The braking gently and frequently until they do. system is power-assisted to reduce Since a longer distance is needed to the effort needed on the brake stop with wet brakes, be extra pedal. cautious and alert in your driving.

Put your foot on the brake pedal only when you intend to brake. Resting your foot on the pedal SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT keeps the brakes applied lightly, 5. Remove the key from the Shift causing them to build up heat. Heat Lock Release slot. Depress the build-up can reduce how well your brake pedal and restart the brakes work. It also keeps your engine. brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you. If you need to use the Shift Lock Release, it could mean your car is Constant application of the brakes developing a problem. Have the car when going down a long hill builds checked by your Honda dealer. up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by downshifting to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal.

Driving The Braking System

Brake Wear Indicators Brake System Design If this happens, you will immediate- The front disc brakes on all cars The hydraulic system that operates ly notice that the brake pedal goes have audible brake wear indicators. the brakes has two separate cir- down much farther and you need to They are also on the rear brakes of cuits. Each circuit works diago- press on it much harder. A much the Si model. nally across the car (the left-front longer distance will be needed to When the brake pads need re- brake is connected with the right- stop the car. placing, you will hear a distinctive rear brake, etc.). If one circuit metallic "screeching" sound when should develop a problem, you will Slow the car by downshifting to a you apply the brakes. If you do not still have braking at two wheels. lower gear and removing your foot have the brake pads replaced, they from the accelerator pedal. Pull to will begin screeching all the time. the side of the road as soon as it is Your brakes may sometimes squeal safe. Because of the longer stop- or squeak when you apply them ping distance needed, brake system lightly. Do not confuse this with the failure is very hazardous. It is best brake wear indicators. They make Front to have your car towed, but if you a very audible "screeching". must drive the car in this condition, be extremely cautious. Have your car repaired as soon as possible.

Driving Driving in Bad Weather

Driving Technique — Always Visibility — Being able to see drive slower than you would in dry clearly in all directions and being weather. It takes your car longer to visible to other drivers are impor- react, even in conditions that may tant in all weather conditions. This seem just barely damp. Apply is more difficult in bad weather. To smooth, even pressure to all the be seen more clearly during day- controls. Abrupt steering wheel light hours, turn on your headlights. movements or sudden, hard appli- cation of the brakes can cause loss Inspect your windshield wipers and of control in wet weather. Be extra washers frequently. Keep the wind- cautious for the first few miles of shield washer reservoir full of the driving while you adjust to the proper fluid. Replace the wind- change in driving conditions. This shield wiper blades if they start to Rain, fog, and snow conditions re- is especially true in snow. A person streak the windshield or leave parts quire a different driving technique can forget some snow-driving tech- unwiped. Use the defrosters and air because of reduced traction and niques during the summer months. conditioner to keep the windows visibility. Keep your car well- Practice is needed to relearn those from fogging up on the inside (see maintained and exercise greater skills. page 67). caution when you need to drive in bad weather. The cruise control Exercise extra caution when should not be used in these condi- driving in rain after a long dry spell. tions. After months of dry weather, the first rains bring oil to the surface of the roadway, making it slippery.

Driving Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer

Traction — Check your tires Towing a Trailer frequently for wear and proper Your car is not designed to tow a pressure. Both are important in trailer. Attempting to do so can preventing "hydroplaning" (loss of void your warranties. traction on a wet surface). In the winter, mount snow tires on all four wheels for the best handling.

Watch road conditions carefully, they can change from moment to moment. Wet leaves can be as slip- pery as ice. "Clear" roads can have patches of ice. Driving conditions can be very hazardous when the Be very cautious when passing, or outside temperature is near freez- being passed by other vehicles. The ing. The road surface can become spray from large vehicles reduces covered with areas of water pud- your visibility, and the wind dles mixed with areas of ice, so buffeting can cause you to lose your traction can change without control. warning.

Be careful when downshifting. If traction is low, you can lock up the drive wheels for a moment and cause a skid.

Driving Maintenance

Regularly maintaining your Honda Maintenance Schedule...... 94 Spark Plugs...... 115 is the best way to protect your Maintenance Record...... 97 Replacement...... 115 investment. You will be rewarded Periodic Checks...... 99 Specification...... 117 with safer, more economical, Fluid Locations...... 100 Battery...... 117 trouble-free driving. This section Engine Oil...... 101 Windshield Wipers...... 120 lists items that need to be checked Checking Engine Oil...... 101 Air Conditioning...... 122 regularly and explains how to Adding...... 101 Engine Belts...... 123 check them. It also details some Recommended Oil...... 102 Tires...... 123 simple maintenance tasks you can Additives...... 102 Inflation...... 123 do yourself. The maintenance Oil and Filter Changes...... 103 Inspection...... 124 schedules for normal and severe Cooling System...... 105 Maintenance...... 125 driving conditions show you when Checking the Coolant Level... 105 Tire Rotation...... 125 these things need to be done. Adding Engine Coolant...... 105 Replacing Tires...... 126 Replacing Engine Coolant...... 106 Wheels and Tires...... 126 If you are interested in how to per- Windshield Washers...... 109 DOT Tire Quality Grading..... 126 form more complex maintenance Transmission Oil...... 110 Treadwear...... 126 on your Honda, you can purchase Automatic Transmission...... 110 Traction...... 127 the Service Manual. See page 5-speed Manual Temperature...... 127 181 for information on how to Transmission...... 111 Winter Driving...... 128 obtain a copy, or see your Honda Brake and Clutch Fluid...... 112 Snow Tires...... 128 dealer. Brake System...... 112 Tire Chains...... 128 Clutch System...... 113 Lights...... 129 Power Steering...... 113 Replacing Bulbs...... 129 Air Cleaner...... 114 Storing Your Car...... 135 Fuel Filter...... 115

Maintenance Maintenance Schedule

The Required Maintenance Drive your car regularly over a We recommend the use of Genuine Schedule specifies how often you distance of several kilometers Honda parts and fluids or their should have your car serviced, and (miles). equivalent whenever you have what thing's need attention. It is maintenance done. These are the essential that your car be serviced Always use unleaded gasoline same high-quality items that went as scheduled to retain its high level with a pump octane number of 86 into your car when it was new, so of safety, dependability, and or higher. you can be sure they fit and emission control performance. perform flawlessly. Your authorized Honda dealer The services and time or kilomet- knows your car best, and can U.S.Cars: rage (mileage) intervals shown in provide competent, efficient Maintenance, replacement or the maintenance schedule assume service. However, service at a repair of emission control you will use your car as normal dealer is not mandatory to keep devices and systems may be transportation for passengers and your warranties in effect. Mainte- done by any automotive re- their possessions. You should: nance may be done by any qualified pair establishment or indi- service facility or person who is vidual using parts that are Avoid exceeding your car's load skilled in this type of automotive "certified" to EPA standards. limit. This puts excess strain on service. Keep all the receipts as the engine, brakes, and many proof of completion, and have the Vehicles sold in California have other parts of your car. The load person who does the work fill out slightly different maintenance limit is shown on the label in the the maintenance record on page requirements. These are noted in glove box. 97. Check your warranty booklet the Required Maintenance Sche- for more information. dule. Other maintenance operations Operate your car on reasonable are required by California regula- roads within the legal speed limit. tions, and condition the emission warranty.

Maintenance Maintenance Schedule

R — Replace I —Inspect After inspection, clean, adjust, repair or replace if necessary.

Page 12 Severe Driving Conditions Service for Severe Driving Conditions Items marked or need service more often if you — Replace the air cleaner element every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 12 months under drive in these conditions: condition B or E. — Replace engine oil and oil filter every 6,000 km (3,750 miles) or 3 months under condition A A. Repeated short distance driving. or B. B. Dusty conditions. — Inspect front brake discs and calipers, and rear brake discs, calipers and pads every 12,000 C. Severe cold weather. km (7,500 miles) or 6 months under condition A, B, D or E. D. Areas with road salt or other corrosive materials. — Inspect the power steering system every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 6 months under E. Rough or muddy roads. condition B, C or E.

Maintenance R — Replace I — Inspect After inspection, dean, adjust, repair or replace if necessary.

: Check oil and coolant level at each fuel stop. *3: This service is recommended only. : Under severe driving conditions, service these items more often. *4: For Si model * 1 : For cars sold in California, this service is recommended only: other *5: For S model areas, it is required. *6: Except S model with manual transmission *2 : Thereafter, replace every 2 years or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), which- ever comes first. Required Maintenance Record

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

Maintenance Non-Scheduled Maintenance Record

Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non-scheduled maintenance on this page (see page 96 ).

Maintenance 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 74. wear and foreign objects. See any check, turn to the page given. page 123. Engine coolant level — Check the radiator reserve tank every Battery — Check its condition time you fill the fuel tank. See and the terminals for corrosion page 75. monthly. See page 117 . Windshield washer fluid — Air conditioning — Check its Check the level in the reservoir operation weekly. See page 122. monthly. If weather conditions cause you to use the washers Lights — Check the operation of frequently, check the reservoir the headlights, parking lights, each tune you stop for fuel. See taillights, high-mount brake light, page 109. turn signals, auxiliary lights, brake lights, and license plate Automatic transmission — lights monthly. See page 129. Check the fluid level monthly. See page 110. Brakes, clutch and power steering — Check the fluid level monthly. See pages 112 and 113 .

Maintenance Fluid Locations

BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap)

(5-M/T only) CLUTCH FLUID (Gray cap)

ENGINE OIL AUTOMATIC FILL CAP TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop) POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)

COOLANT RESERVOIR WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop)

Maintenance Engine Oil

Checking Engine Oil Adding ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

UPPER MARK

DIPSTICK LOWER MARK Check the engine oil a couple of 3. Pull it out again and look at the To add oil, unscrew and remove the minutes after shutting off the oil level at the end of the dipstick. engine oil fill cap on top of the engine. This will allow the oil to If it is between the upper and valve cover. Pour in the oil, and drain down to the bottom of the lower marks, the level is correct. replace the engine oil fill cap. engine. Make sure the car is parked Add oil if the level is at or below Tighten it securely. Wait a few on level ground. the lower mark. minutes and recheck the oil level. 1. Pull out the dipstick (orange Do not fill above the upper mark; loop) and wipe it with a cloth or you could damage the engine. paper towel. 2. Insert it all the way back in its tube.

Maintenance Engine Oil

Recommended Oil The numbers in the middle tell you A fuel-efficient oil is recommended Oil is a major contributor to your the oil's SAE viscosity or weight. for your Honda. This is shown on engine's performance and longevity. Select the oil for your car accord- the API Service label by the words Always use a premium-grade deter- ing to this chart: "Energy Conserving II." This oil is gent oil. You can determine an oil's formulated to help your engine use SAE viscosity and Service Classifi- less fuel. cation from the API Service label on the oil container. It should look Ambient Temperature The API Service label also tells you like this: the service classification of the oil. Always use an oil that says "API Service SG." This service rating may also include other designations, such as CD. These additional classifications are not a problem, as long as the label also carries the SG classification. An oil that is only classified SF is not recommended. An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 is preferred for improved fuel econo- Additives my and year-round protection in Your Honda does not need any oil your Honda. You may use a 10W-30 additives. Purchasing additives for oil if the temperature in your area the engine or transmission will not never goes below 20°F (—7°C). increase your car's performance or longevity. It only increases the cost of operating your car.

Maintenance Engine Oil

Oil and Filter Changes Always change the oil and filter according to the time and kilomet- Repeated, prolonged exposure rage (mileage) recommendations in to used motor oil may cause the maintenance schedule. The oil skin cancer. and filter collect contaminants that can damage your engine if they are Wash your hands thoroughly not removed regularly. with strong soap as soon as possible after handling used oil. Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the car. The car should 1. Run the engine until it reaches OIL DRAIN BOLT WASHER be raised on a service station-type normal operating temperature, hydraulic lift for this service. then shut it off. 2. Open the hood and remove the Unless you have the knowledge engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil and proper equipment, you should drain bolt from the bottom of the have this maintenance done by a engine. Drain the oil into an skilled mechanic. The oil, engine components appropriate container. and the exhaust system are hot and can bum you.

Use caution and wear protec- tive clothing while working in the engine compartment.

CONTINUED

Maintenance Engine Oil

6. Refill the engine with the recom- NOTICE OIL FILTER mended oil. Engine oil capacity If you change your own oil, please (including filter): dispose of the used oil properly. Put 3.3 (3.5 US qt, 2.9 Imp qt) it in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. Do not 7. Replace the engine oil fill cap. discard it in a trash bin or dump it Start the engine. The oil pressure on the ground. indicator light should go out within five seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine and reinspect The oil and filter should be chang- your work. ed every 6 months or 12,000 km (7,500 miles), whichever comes first. 3. Remove the oil filter and let the 8. Let the engine run for several Under severe driving conditions, remaining oil drain. A special minutes and check the drain bolt they should be changed every 3 wrench (available from your and oil filter for leaks. months or 6,000 km (3,750 miles). Honda dealer) is required to See page 96 for a description of remove the filter. 9. Turn off the engine, let it sit for severe driving conditions. several minutes, then check the 4. Install a new oil filter according oil level. If necessary, add oil to to instructions that come with it. bring the level to the upper mark on the dipstick. 5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten it to: 45 N.m (4.5 kg-m , 33 Ib-ft)

Maintenance 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 RESERVE TANK 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 provide adequate protection. Removing the radiator cap white the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, MAX seriously scalding you. Always let the engine and MIN radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap. Check the level of the coolant by looking at the radiator reserve tank near the right headlight. If the 1. Make sure the engine and level is at or below the MIN line, radiator are cool. 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. CONTINUED

Maintenance Cooling System

RADIATOR CAP Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your car's cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine components. Replacing Engine Coolant The cooling system should be completely drained and refilled with new coolant according to the time and kilometrage (mileage) RESERVE TANK recommendations in the mainte- nance schedule. Only use recom- 2. Turn the radiator cap counter- 4. The coolant level should be up to mended antifreeze. clockwise, without pressing the base of the filler neck. Add Draining the coolant requires down on it, until it stops. This coolant if it is low. access to the underside of the car. relieves any pressure remaining Unless you have the tools and in the cooling system. 5. Put the radiator cap back on. knowledge, you should have this Tighten it fully. maintenance done by a skilled 3. Remove the radiator cap by mechanic. pushing down and turning 6. Pour coolant into the reserve counterclockwise. tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.

Maintenance Cooling System

RESERVE TANK RESERVE TANK CAP

DRAIN PLUG DRAIN BOLT HOLDER 1. Slide the heater temperature 3. Loosen the drain plug on the 4. Remove the reserve tank from control lever to maximum heat. bottom of the radiator. The its holder by pulling it straight up. Open the hood. Make sure the coolant will drain through the Drain the coolant, then put the engine and radiator are cool to splash guard. Remove the drain tank back in its holder. the touch. bolt from the engine block. 5. When the coolant stops draining, 2. Remove the radiator cap. tighten the drain plug in the bottom of the radiator. Apply non-hardening sealant to the drain bolt threads and reinstall the bolt in the engine block. Tighten it securely. CONTINUED

Maintenance Cooling System

FILLER NECK BLEEDER BOLT

Fill up to here RESERVE TANK 6. Mix the recommended antifreeze 7. Pour coolant into the radiator up radiator cooling fan comes on at with an equal amount of purified to the base of the filler neck. least twice). or distilled water in a clean container. The cooling system 8. Loosen the bleeder bolt on top of 10.Turn off the engine. Check the capacity is: the engine. Tighten it again level in the radiator, add coolant when coolant comes out in a if needed. Install the radiator cap, With manual transmission: steady stream with no bubbles. tighten it fully. 3.6 (0.95 US gal, 0.79 Imp gal) With automatic transmission: 9. Refill the radiator to the base of 11. Fill the reserve tank to the MAX (S) the filler neck. Put the cap on the mark. Install the reserve tank 3.5 (0.92 US gal, 0.77 Imp gal) radiator, only tighten it to the cap. (Si) first stop. Start the engine and 3.8 (1.00 US gal, 0.84 Imp gal) let it run until it warms up (the

Maintenance Windshield Washers

Check the level in the windshield RESERVOIR Antifreeze can damage your car's washer reservoir at least monthly paint, while a vinegar/water during normal usage. In bad solution can damage the windshield weather, when you use the washers washer pump. often, check the level every time you stop for gas. Use only commercially-available windshield washer fluid. The windshield washer reservoir is located behind the left headlight. Check the reservoir's fluid level by removing the cap and looking inside.

Fill the reservoir with a good- NOTICE quality windshield washer fluid. This increases the cleaning Do not use engine antifreeze or a capability and prevents freezing in vinegar/water solution in the cold weather. windshield washer reservoir.

Maintenance Transmission Oil

Automatic Transmission 5. If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the tube to DIPSTICK bring it to the upper mark. Use Honda Premium Formula Automatic Transmission Fluid or an equivalent DEXRON® II Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) only.

6. Insert the dipstick all the way back in the transmission. UPPER MARK LOWER MARK The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid every 24 Check the fluid level with the 3. Insert the dipstick into the months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), engine at normal operating tempe- transmission. whichever comes first. rature. 4. Remove the dipstick and check 1. Park the car on level ground. the fluid level. It should be Shut off the engine. between the upper and lower marks. 2. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission and wipe it with a clean cloth.

Maintenance Transmission Oil

5-speed Manual Transmission Only use an SF or SG grade motor oil with a weight of 10W-30 or 10W-40.

FILLER BOLT The transmission should be drained and refilled with new oil every 24 months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), whichever comes first. Correct level

Check the oil level a couple of mi- nutes after shutting off the engine. Make sure the car is on level ground. Remove the transmission filler bolt. The oil level should be up to the edge of the bolt hole. Feel inside the bolt hole with your finger. If you do 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 Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake and Clutch Fluid Brake System If you add brake fluid to bring it up Check the fluid level in the reser- to the MAX mark, use Genuine voirs monthly. There are two reser- MAX Honda Brake Fluid or an equiva- voirs: lent from a sealed container that is marked DOT3 or DOT4 only. Brake fluid reservoir (all models) Brake fluid marked DOT5 is not Clutch fluid reservoir compatible with your car's braking (Manual transmission only) system.

The brake fluid in the brake system should be replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), whichever comes first. MIN The fluid should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of 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.

Maintenance Brake and Clutch Fluid, Power Steering

Clutch System Power Steering NOTICE MAX Using automatic transmission fluid UPPER or another brand of power steering LEVEL fluid will damage the system. Use only genuine Honda power steering fluid.

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

Maintenance Air Cleaner

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

Follow the replacement procedure for removal and reinstallation.

BOLTS AIR CLEANER ELEMENT The air cleaner element is inside 3. Place the new air cleaner the box on the passenger's side of element in the air cleaner the engine compartment. housing. To replace it: 4. Reinstall the air cleaner housing 1. Loosen the four bolts and remove cover, tighten the four bolts. 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 Fuel Filter, Spark Plugs

Fuel Filter Spark Plugs Replacement The fuel filter should be replaced The original spark plugs in your every 4 years or 96,000 km (60,000 car need to be replaced every 2 SPARK PLUG CAP miles), whichever comes first. years or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), whichever comes first. Have a qualified technician change the fuel filter. Since the fuel system is under pressure, gasoline can spray out and create a hazard if all fuel line connections are not han- dled correctly.

The filter may require replacement sooner if you happen to buy one or more tankfuls of contaminated 1. Clean up any dirt and oil that gasoline. Have the filter tested or have collected around the spark replaced if you suspect it has been plug caps. clogged by contaminants. 2. Remove the spark plug cap by pulling it straight out. 3. Remove the spark plug, using a 16 mm (5/8 inch) spark plug socket.

CONTINUED

Maintenance 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. 4. Set the gap on the new spark 6. Torque the spark plug. (If you do plug with a wire-type spark plug not have a torque wrench, tight- gapping tool. Do not use a blade- en the spark plug one-quarter type feeler gauge. turn after it contacts the cylinder Plug gap should be: head.) 1.1 mm (0.04 in) Tightening torque: 18 N.m (1.8 kg-m,13 Ib-ft) 5. Put the new spark plug into the socket, then thread it into the hole. Screw it in by hand so you do not crossthread it.

Maintenance Spark Plugs, Battery

Specifications: Battery Check the condition of your car's (S) battery monthly. You should check The battery contains sulfuric Normal driving conditions for proper electrolyte level and acid (electrolyte) which is NGK: ZFR5F-11 corrosion on the terminals. highly corrosive and poisonous. Nippondenso: KJ16CR-L11 Getting electrolyte in your Hot climates, or continuous high eyes or on your skin can cause speed driving The battery gives off explo- serious burns. Wear protective NGK: ZFR6F-11 sive hydrogen gas during nor- clothing and eye protection Nippondenso: KJ20CR-L11 mal operation. A spark or open when working near the battery. flame can cause the battery to (Si) explode with enough force to Swallowing electrolyte can Normal driving conditions kin or seriously hurt you. cause fatal poisoning if immedi- NGK: ZFR5J-11 ate action is not taken. Nippondenso: KJ16CR-L11 Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF Hot climates, or continuous high from the battery. CHILDREN speed driving NGK: ZFR6J-11 Wear protective clothing and a Nippondenso: KJ20CR-L11 face shield, or have a skilled (See Emergency Procedures on the mechanic do the battery main- next page.) tenance.

Maintenance Battery

Emergency Procedures TEST INDICATOR WINDOW Check the battery terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish Eyes — Flush with water from a powder). To remove it, cover the cup or other container for at least terminals with a solution of baking fifteen minutes. (Water under soda and water. It will bubble up pressure can damage the eye.) and turn brown. When this stops, Immediately call a physician or 911. wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper Skin — Remove contaminated towel. Coat the terminals with clothing. Flush the skin with large grease to help prevent future quantities of water. Call a physi- corrosion. cian immediately.

Swallowing — Drink water or Check the battery condition by milk. Call your local Poison Control looking at the test indicator Center or a physician immediately. window on the battery: Blue — Good condition Red — Add distilled water White — Charging necessary

Maintenance Battery

If the terminals are severely cor- NOTICE roded, clean them with baking soda and water. Then use a wrench to Charging the battery with the loosen and remove the cables from cables connected can seriously the terminals. Always disconnect damage your car's electronic the negative (—) cable first and controls. Detach the battery cables reconnect it last. Clean the battery before connecting the battery to a terminals with a terminal cleaning charger. tool or wire brush. Reconnect and tighten the cables, then coat the terminals with grease.

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

Maintenance Windshield Wipers

Check the condition of the wind- WIPER ARMS shield wiper blades at least every six months. Look for signs of crack- ing 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 Windshield Wipers

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

6. Slide the 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 Air Conditioning (Optional)

Your car's air conditioning is a light spray from a hose or a soft If the air conditioning does not get sealed system. Any major mainte- brush to remove them. as cold as before, it is probably nance, such as recharging, should because some of the refrigerant has be done by a qualified technician. NOTICE leaked from the system. Have your There are a couple of things you dealer check the system for leaks can do to make sure the air condi- The condenser and radiator fins and recharge the system with tioning works efficiently. bend easily. Only use a low- Refrigerant 12 (R-12). pressure spray or soft-bristle brush Charging quantity: AIR CONDITIONING to clean them. 600—650 g (21.2—23.0 oz) CONDENSER NOTICE Run the air conditioning at least once a week during the cold Whenever you have the air condi- weather months. Run it for at least tioning system serviced, make sure ten minutes while you are driving the service facility uses a refrige- at a steady speed with the engine at rant recycling system. This system normal operating temperature. captures the refrigerant for reuse. This circulates the lubricating oil Releasing refrigerant into the at- contained in the refrigerant. mosphere can damage the environ- ment. Periodically check the engine's radiator and air conditioning condenser for leaves, insects, and dirt stuck to the front surface. These block the air flow and reduce cooling efficiency. Use a

Maintenance Engine Belts, Tires

Engine Belts If you see signs of wear or loose- Tires ness, have your dealer adjust or Check the inflation and condition ALTERNATOR BELT replace the belts. Your dealer will of your car's tires at least once a check these belts as part of the month. normal scheduled maintenance. Inflation 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 before checking the tire pressure, the tires can still be considered "cold" if you drive less POWER STEERING BELT than 1.6 km (1 mile). Check the condition of the two engine belts. Examine the edges of If you check the pressure when the each belt for cracks or fraying. tires are hot (the car has been Check the tension of each belt by driven several miles), you will see pushing on it with your thumb readings 28 to 41 kPa (0.3 to 0.4 midway between the pulleys. kg/cm2,4 to 6 psi) higher than the The belts should have the following cold reading. This is normal. Do not "play" or deflection. let air out to match the specified Alternator belt: cold pressure. The tire will be 7.0 — 10.5 mm (0.28 — 0.41 in) underinflated. Power steering belt: 8.0 — 12.0 mm (0.31 — 0.47 in) CONTINUED

Maintenance Tires

The correct cold tire pressures are: Keeping the tires properly inflated (S) provides you with the best combi- Front/Rear: nation of riding comfort, handling 220 kPa (2.2 kg/cm2 , 32 psi) and tread life. Underinflated tires (Si) wear unevenly, reduce your car's Front/Rear: handling, and are more likely to fail 2 because of higher temperatures. 200 kPa (2.0 kg/cm , 29 psi) Overinflated tires make your car Compact spare: ride more harshly, are more prone 415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm2 , 60 psi) to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly. TIRE INFORMATION LABEL Inspection These pressures are also given on Every time you check inflation the tire information label in the pressures, you should also examine glove box. Remember to check the the tires for damage, foreign pressure in the spare tire at the objects, and wear. same time. You should look for: Bumps or bulges in the tread or You should get your own tire side of the tire. Replace the tire if pressure gauge and use it at all you find either of these condi- times. That makes it easier for you tions. to tell if a pressure loss is caused by Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side a tire problem and not a variation of the tire. Replace the tire if you between gauges. can see fabric or cord. Excessive tread wear.

Maintenance Tires

INDICATOR Maintenance wheels. Use only genuine Honda LOCATION In addition to proper inflation, wheel weights for balancing. MARKS correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. You should get Tire Rotation your car's wheel alignment check- ed every 12 months or 24,000 km Front (15,000 miles). The tires were properly balanced by the factory. They may need to be rebalanced at some time before TREAD WEAR INDICATORS they are worn out. Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a Your car's tires have wear indica- consistent vibration while driving. tors molded into the tread. When A tire should always be rebalanced the tread wears down to that point, if it is removed from the wheel. you will see a 12.7 mm (1/2 inch) Make sure the installer balances wide band running across the tread. the wheels when you have new To help increase tire life and This shows there is less than 1.6 tires installed. This increases riding distribute wear more evenly, you mm (1/16 inch) of tread left on the comfort and tire life. should have the tires rotated every tire. A tire that is this worn gives 12,000 km (7,500 miles). Move the very little traction on wet roads. NOTICE tires to the positions shown in the You should replace the tire if you chart each time they are rotated. can see the tread wear indicator in (Si model) three or more places around the Improper wheel weights can tire. damage your car's aluminum

Maintenance Tires

Replacing Tires Wheels and Tires Treadwear The tires that came with your The treadwear grade is a compara- Honda were selected to match the Wheel Size: tive rating based on the wear rate performance capabilities of the car (S) of the tire when tested under con- and provide the best combination of 13x5J trolled conditions on a specified handling, ride comfort, and long life. (Si) government test course. For exam- You should replace them with 14x51/2JJ ple, a tire graded 150 would wear radial tires of the same size, load one and one half (1-1/2) times as range, and speed rating. Mixing Tire Sizes: well on the government course as a radial and bias-ply or bias-belted (S) tire graded 100. The relative per- tires on your car can reduce its P175/70R1382S formance of tires depends upon the braking ability, traction, and (Si) actual conditions of their use, how- steering accuracy. P185/60R1482H ever, and may depart significantly It is best to replace all four tires at from the norm due to variations in the same time. If that is not possi- DOT Tire Quality Grading driving habits, service practices ble or necessary, then replace the (US Cars) and differences in road character- two front tires or the two rear tires The tires on your car meet all U.S. istics and climate. as a pair. Replacing just one tire Federal Safety Requirements. All can seriously affect your car's han- tires are also graded for treadwear, dling. traction, and temperature perform- If you ever need to replace a wheel, ance according to Department of make sure you use an identical Transportation (DOT) standards. style wheel that originally came on The following explains these your Honda. Replacement wheels gradings. are available at your Honda dealer.

Maintenance Tires

Traction Temperature Warning: The temperature grade The traction grades, from highest The temperature grades are A (the for this tire is established for a tire to lowest, are A, B, and C, and they highest), B, and C, representing the that is properly inflated and not represent the tire's ability to stop tire's resistance to the generation overloaded. Excessive speed, on wet pavement as measured of heat and its ability to dissipate underinflation, or excessive loading under controlled conditions on heat when tested under controlled either separately or in combination, specified government test surfaces conditions on a specified indoor can cause heat build-up and of asphalt and concrete. A tire laboratory test wheel. Sustained possible tire failure. marked C may have poor traction high temperature can cause the performance. material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive Warning: The traction grade as- temperature can lead to sudden tire signed to this tire is based on brak- failure. The grade C corresponds to ing (straight ahead) traction tests a level of performance which all and does not include cornering passenger car tires must meet (turning) traction. 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.

Maintenance Tires

Winter Driving Snow Tires When installing chains, follow the Tires that are marked "M+S" or If you mount snow tires on your manufacturer's instructions and "All Season" on the sidewall have Honda, make sure they are radial mount them as tightly as you can. an all-weather tread design. They tires of the same size and load Drive slowly with chains installed. should be suitable for most winter range as the original tires. Mount If you hear the chains contacting driving conditions. Tires without snow tires on all four wheels to the body or chassis, stop and these markings are designed for balance your car's handling in all tighten them. If they still make optimum traction in dry conditions. weather conditions. Keep in mind contact, slow down until it stops. They may not provide adequate the traction provided by snow tires Remove the chains as soon as you performance in winter driving. on dry roads may not be as high as begin driving on cleared roads. For the best performance in snowy your car's original-equipment tires. or icy conditions, you should install You should drive cautiously even NOTICE snow tires or tire chains. They may when the roads are clear. Check be required by local laws under with the tire dealer for maximum Chains of the wrong size or that are certain conditions. speed recommendations. improperly installed can damage your car's brake lines, suspension, Tire Chains body, and wheels. Stop driving if Mount snow chains on your car you hear the chains hitting any part when warranted by driving condi- of the car. tions or required by local laws. Make sure the chains are the cor- rect size for your tires. Install them only on the front tires. If metal chains are used, they must be SAE class"S". Cable type traction de- vices can also be used.

Maintenance Lights

Check the operation of your car's Replacing a Headlight Bulb BULB CONNECTOR exterior lights at least once a Your car has halogen headlight month. A burned out bulb can bulbs, one on each side. When create an unsafe condition by replacing a bulb, handle it by its reducing your car's visibility and steel base and protect the glass the ability to signal your intentions from contact with your skin or to other drivers. hard objects. If you touch the glass, Check the following: clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth. Headlights (low and high beam) Auxiliary lights NOTICE Parking lights HOLD-DOWN WIRE Taillights Halogen headlight bulbs get very Brake lights hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a 1. Open the hood. Turn signals scratch on the glass can cause the If you need to change the Back-up lights bulb to overheat and shatter. headlight bulb on the passenger's Hazard light function side, remove the air intake tube License plate light by pulling it straight up. Side marker lights Daytime running lights 2. Remove the electrical connector (Canadian cars) from the bulb by pulling the If you find any bulbs are burned connector straight back. out, replace them as soon as possible. Refer to the chart on page 169 to determine what type of replacement bulb is needed. CONTINUED

Maintenance Lights

3. Remove the rubber weather seal Replacing an Auxiliary Light 3. Remove the burned-out bulb by pulling on the tab. Bulb from its socket. To remove the bulb, push it in slightly and turn 4. Unclip the end of the hold-down it counterclockwise. wire from its slot. Pivot it out of the way and remove the bulb. 4. Insert the new bulb in the socket. Reinstall the socket. 5. Insert the new bulb into the hole, making sure the tabs are in their 5. Test the bulb by turning on the slots. Pivot the hold-down wire headlights (low beam) and back in place and clip the end auxiliary lights. into the slot.

6. Push the rubber weather seal over the bulb. The auxiliary lights are located 7. Push the electrical connector next to the headlights. onto the tabs of the new bulb. Turn on the headlights to test 1. Open the hood. the new bulb. 2. Remove the socket by turning it 8. (Passenger's side) one-quarter turn counterclock- Reinstall the air intake tube. wise.

Maintenance Lights

Replacing the Front Side 4. Remove the bulb by pushing it in Marker/Turn Signal and slightly and turning it counter- Parking Light Bulb clockwise.

5. Install the new bulb in the socket. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

6. Insert the socket back into the lens. Turn it clockwise to lock it SOCKET in place. 7. Turn on the parking lights to make sure the new bulb works. SCREW BULB 8. To reinstall the light assembly in 1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver 2. Move the side marker light the fender, line up the guide on to remove the screw from the top assembly forward until it slides the assembly with the metal tab of the fender. out of the body. next to the headlight and line up the fingers on the light assembly 3. Turn the socket one-quarter turn with the holes in the fender. counterclockwise to remove it Push the light assembly straight from the lens. back. 9. Install the mounting screw and tighten it securely.

Maintenance Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs 4. Install the new bulb in the socket. Insert the socket back in the taillight assembly and turn it clockwise to lock it in place. 5. Test the new bulb. Reinstall the cover over the taillight assembly.

1. Open the trunk and the taillight 3. To remove the tail/stoplight bulb, assembly cover. back-up light bulb or the turn When replacing a bulb in the signal bulb, push it in slightly and right assembly, remove the jack turn it counterclockwise. To first. remove the side marker bulb, pull it straight out of the socket. 2. Determine which of the four bulbs is burned out: tail/stoplight, back-up light, turn signal, or side marker. Remove the socket for that bulb by turning it counter- clockwise.

Maintenance Lights

Replacing a Rear License 4. Pull the bulb straight out of the Replacing Interior and Trunk Bulb socket. Light Bulbs 5. Install the new bulb. Test it to INTERIOR LIGHT make sure it works. 6. Reinstall the light assembly on the bracket. Install the mounting screws and tighten them secu- rely.

1. Open the trunk. 1. Remove the lens by carefully Use a Phillips-head screwdriver prying on the edge of the lens in to remove the two mounting the middle with a fingernail file screws. or a small flat-tip screwdriver. Do not pry on the edge of the 2. Pull the assembly away from the housing around the lens. bracket. 3. Remove the socket from the light assembly by turning it counterclockwise. CONTINUED

Maintenance Lights

TRUNK LIGHT

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.

Maintenance Storing Your Car

If you need to park your car for an Block the rear wheels. If you store your car for 12 months extended period (more than 1 or longer, have your Honda dealer month), there are several things If the car is to be stored for a perform the inspections called for you should do to prepare it for longer period, it should be in the 24 months/48,000 km (30,000 storage. Proper preparation helps supported on jackstands so the miles) maintenance schedule as prevent deterioration and makes it tires are off the ground. soon as you take it out of storage easier to get your car back on the (see page 95). The replacements road. It is best to store your car Leave one window open slightly called for in the maintenance indoors if at all possible. (if the car is being stored indoors). schedule are not needed unless the car has actually reached that time Fill the fuel tank. Disconnect the battery. or mileage.

Change the engine oil and filter Cover the car with a (see page 103). "breathable" car cover, one made from a porous material such as Wash and dry the exterior cotton. Nonporous materials, completely. such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture which can damage the Clean the interior. Make sure the paint. carpeting, floor mats, etc. are completely dry. If possible, run the engine for a while periodically (preferably Leave the parking brake off. Put once a month). the transmission in Reverse (manual) or Park (automatic).

Maintenance 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, brightwork, wheels and interior. Also included are several things you can do to help prevent corro- sion.

Exterior Care...... 138 Washing...... 138 Waxing...... 139 Paint Touch-up...... 139 Aluminum Wheels...... 140 Interior Care...... 141 Carpeting...... 141 Fabric...... 141 Vinyl...... 141 Seat Belts...... 141 Windows...... 142 Air Fresheners...... 142 Corrosion Protection...... 142 Body Repairs...... 143

Appearance Care Exterior Care

Washing Rinse the car thoroughly with • When you have washed and Frequent washing helps preserve cool water to remove loose dirt. rinsed the whole exterior, dry it your car's beauty. Dirt and grit can with a chamois or soft towel. scratch the paint, while tree sap Fill a bucket with cool water. Letting it air-dry will cause and bird droppings can perma- Mix in a mild detergent, such as dulling and water spots. nently ruin the finish. dishwashing liquid or a product made especially for car washing. As you dry the car, inspect it for Wash your car in a shady area, not chips and scratches that could in direct sunlight. If the car is Wash the car, using the water allow corrosion to start. Repair parked in the sun, move it into the and detergent solution and a soft- them with touch-up paint (see page shade and let the exterior cool bristle brush, sponge, or soft 139). down before you start. cloth. Start at the top and work your way down. Rinse frequently. NOTICE Check the body for road tar, tree Chemical solvents and strong sap, etc. Remove these stains cleaners can damage the paint, with tar remover or turpentine. metal, and plastic on your car. Only Rinse it off immediately so it use the solvents and cleaners does not harm the finish. Remem- recommended in this Owner's ber to re-wax these areas, even if Manual. the rest of the car does not need waxing.

Appearance Care Exterior Care

Waxing Polishes — Polishes and cleaner/ Paint Touch-up Always wash and dry the whole car waxes can restore the shine to Your dealer has touch-up paint to before waxing it. You should wax paint that has oxidized and lost match your car's color. The color your car, including the metal trim, some of its shine. They normally code is printed on a sticker on the whenever water sits on the surface contain mild abrasives and solvents driver's door jamb. Take this code in large patches. It should form into that remove the top layer of the to your dealer so you are sure to beads or droplets after waxing. finish. You should use a polish on get the correct color. your Honda if the finish does not You should use a quality liquid or have its original shine after using a paste wax. Apply it according to wax. the instructions on the container. In general, there are two types of Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with products: removers also takes off the wax. Remember to re-wax those areas, Waxes — A wax coats the finish even if the rest of the car does not and protects it from damage by need waxing. exposure to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You should use a wax on your Honda when it is new.

CONTINUED

Appearance Care Exterior Care

Examine the chip or scratch closely Aluminum Wheels before repairing it. If it does not go Clean your Honda's aluminum alloy down to bare metal, clean it with wheels as you do the rest of the soap and water and apply the exterior. Wash them with the same touch-up paint. If it does go to the solution, and rinse them thoroughly. metal, apply a coat of primer first. After this dries, apply the touch-up The wheels have a protective clear- paint. Build up the paint in the coat that keeps the aluminum from damaged area to the level of the corroding and tarnishing. Using surrounding paint. Several thin harsh chemicals, including some TOUCH-UP coats of paint are better than one commercial wheel cleaners, or stiff PAINT thick coat. brushes can damage this clear-coat. Only use a mild detergent and soft Inspect your car for chipped or brush or sponge to clean the wheels. 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 Interior Care

Carpeting Fabric Vinyl Vacuum the carpeting frequently Vacuum dirt and dust out of the Remove dirt and dust with a to remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will material frequently. For general vacuum cleaner. Wipe the vinyl make the carpet wear out faster. cleaning, use a solution of mild soap with a soft cloth dampened in a Periodically shampoo the carpet to and lukewarm water, letting it air solution of mild soap and water. keep it looking new. Use one of the dry. To clean off stubborn spots, Use the same solution with a soft- foam-type carpet cleaners on the use a commercially-available fabric bristle brush on more difficult spots. market. Follow the instructions cleaner. Test it on a hidden area of You can also use commercially- that come with the cleaner, apply- the fabric first, to make sure it does available spray or foam-type vinyl ing it with a sponge or soft brush. not bleach or stain the fabric. cleaners. Keep the carpeting as dry as possi- Follow the instructions that come ble by not adding water to the foam. with the cleaner. Seat Belts If your seat belts get dirty, you can use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean them. Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. They can weaken the belt material. Let the belts air-dry before you use the car.

Appearance Care Interior Care, Corrosion Protection

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

Appearance Care Corrosion Protection, Body Repairs

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

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

Appearance Care Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more- Compact Spare Tire...... 146 common problems that motorists Changing a Flat Tire...... 147 experience with their cars. It gives If Your Engine Won't Start...... 153 you information about how to Nothing Happens...... 153 safely evaluate the problem and The Starter Operates what to do to correct it. If the Normally...... 154 problem has stranded you on the Jump Starting...... 154 side of the road, you may be able to If Your Engine Overheats...... 156 get going again. If not, you will also Low Oil Pressure...... 158 find instructions on getting your Charging System Indication...... 159 car towed. Malfunction Indicator Light/ Check Engine Light...... 160 Fuses...... 161 Checking and Replacing...... 162 Towing...... 164

Taking Care of the Unexpected 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 LOCATION spare tire as a temporary replace- tire: MARK ment only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced and put back Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) on your car as soon as you can. under any circumstances.

Check the inflation pressure of the This tire gives a harsher ride and compact spare tire every time you less traction on some road sur- check the other tires. It should be faces than the regular tire. Use inflated to: greater caution while driving on TREAD WEAR 2 INDICATOR 415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm , 60 psi) this tire. BAR Do not mount snow chains on the The compact spare tire has a compact spare. shorter tread life than a regular tire. Replace it when you can see The wheel of the compact spare the tread wear indicator bars. The tire is designed especially to fit replacement should be the same your car. Do not use your spare size and design tire, mounted on tire on another car unless it is the the same wheel. The compact spare same make and model. tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the com- pact wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Changing a Flat Tire

If you have a flat tire while driving,

TOOL KIT JACK stop in a safe place to change it. Stopping in traffic or on the shoul- der 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 traf- fic lanes.

The car can easily roll off the ROOF HOLDER SPARE TIRE jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath. 2. Put the transmission in Park 4. Take the tool kit out of the trunk. (automatic) or Reverse (manual). Follow the directions for chang- Set the parking brake. 5. Unscrew the wing bolt and take ing a tire exactly, and never the spare tire out of its well. get under the car when it is 3. Open the trunk and lift up the supported only by the jack. roof holder. Raise the trunk floor by lifting up on the back edge. 1. Park the car on firm, level ground away from traffic. Turn on the hazard warning lights and turn the ignition to LOCK (0). CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected Changing a Flat Tire

SCREWDRIVER JACK

CENTER CAP 6. Turn the jack's end bracket 7. On the Si model 8. Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2 counterclockwise to loosen it, Remove the center cap from the turn with the wheel wrench. then remove the jack. wheel with a screwdriver (not included in tool kit) or coin.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL NUTS

JACKING WHEEL POINT WHEEL COVER EXTENSION WRENCH 9. Locate the jacking point nearest 10.Use the extension and wheel 11.Remove the wheel nuts and the tire you need to change. It is wrench as shown to raise the car wheel cover. The wheel cover pointed to by an arrow molded until the flat tire is off the cannot be removed without first into the underside of the body. ground. removing the wheel nuts. Do not Place the jack under the jacking attempt to forcibly pry the wheel point. Turn the end bracket cover off with a screwdriver or clockwise until the top of the other tool. jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting on the jack notch.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected Changing a Flat Tire

BRAKE HUB

12.Remove the flat tire. Tempo- 13.Before mounting the spare tire, 14.Put on the spare tire. Put the rarily place the flat tire on the wipe any dirt off the mounting wheel nuts back on finger-tight, ground with the outside surface surface of the wheel and hub then tighten them in a crisscross of the wheel facing up. The with a cloth. pattern with the wheel wrench outside surface contacting the until the wheel is firmly against ground could damage the wheel the hub. Do not try to tighten surface. them fully.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Changing a Flat Tire

WING BOLT SPACER CONE

15.Lower the car to the ground and 16.Tighten the wheel nuts securely 17.Place the flat tire face down in remove the jack. in the same crisscross pattern. the spare tire well. Have the wheel nut torque check- ed at the nearest automotive 18.Remove the spacer cone from service facility. the wing bolt, turn it over, and Tighten the wheel nuts to: put it back on the bolt. 110 N.m (11 kg-m, 80 Ib-ft) 19.Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected Changing a Flat Tire

20.Store the jack in its holder with the end bracket facing to the rear. Turn the jack's end bracket to lock it in place. Replace the cover. Store the tool kit.

21.Store the wheel cover or center cap in the trunk. Make sure they do not get scratched or damaged.

22.Reinstall the floor lid.

23.Lower the roof holder, then close the trunk lid.

Taking Care of the Unexpected If Your Engine Won't Start

Diagnosing why your engine won't Nothing Happens or the Turn the ignition switch to start falls into two areas, depending Starter Motor Operates Very START (III). If the headlights do on what you hear when you turn Slowly not dim, check the condition of the key to START (III): When you turn the ignition switch the fuses. If the fuses are OK, to START (III), you do not hear the there is probably something You hear nothing, or almost normal noise of the engine trying to wrong with the electrical circuit nothing. The engine's starter start. You may hear a clicking for the ignition switch or starter motor does not operate at all, or sound or series of clicks, or nothing motor. You will need a qualified operates very slowly. at all. technician to determine the Check these things: problem. (See Towing on page You can hear the starter motor 164.) operating normally, but the Check the transmission interlock. engine does not start up and run. If you have a manual trans- If the headlights dim noticeably mission, the clutch pedal must be or go out when you try to start pushed all the way to the floor or the engine, either the battery is the starter will not operate. With discharged or the connections an automatic transmission, it are corroded. Check the condi- must be in Park or Neutral. tion of the battery and terminal connections (see page 117). You Turn the ignition switch to ON can then try jump starting the (II). Turn on the headlights and car from a booster battery (see check their brightness. If the page 154). headlights are very dim or don't light at all, the battery is dis- charged. See Jump Starting on page 154.

Taking Care of the Unexpected If Your Engine Won't Start, Jump Starting

The Starter Operates Jump Starting To jump start your car: Normally If your car's battery has run down, In this case, the starter motor you may be able to start the engine 1. Open the hood and check the sounds normal when you turn the by using a booster battery. physical condition of the battery ignition switch to START (III), but Although this seems like a simple (see page 117). In very cold the engine does not run. procedure, there are several precau- weather, check the condition of tions you should take. Follow the the electrolyte. If it seems slushy Are you using the proper starting directions closely. or like ice, do not try jump procedure? Refer to Starting starting until it thaws. the Engine on page 81 . NOTICE Do you have gas? Turn the A battery can explode if you ignition switch to ON (II) for a do not follow the correct pro- If a battery sits in extreme cold, the minute and watch the fuel gauge. cedure, seriously injuring any- electrolyte inside can freeze. one nearby. Attempting to jump start with a There may be an electrical frozen battery can cause it to problem, such as no power to the Keep all sparks, open flames, rupture or explode. fuel pump. Check all the fuses and smoking materials away (see page 161). from the battery. 2. Turn off all the electrical acces- sories: heater, A/C, stereo system, If you find nothing wrong, you will lights, etc. need a qualified technician to find You cannot start a Honda with an Put the transmission in Neutral the problem. See Towing on page automatic transmision by pushing or Park and set the parking 164. or pulling it. brake.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Jump Starting

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

Taking Care of the Unexpected If Your Engine Overheats

The pointer of your car's tempera- Your car can overheat for several 1. Safely pull to the side of the road. ture gauge should stay in the mid- reasons, such as lack of coolant or a Put the transmission in neutral range under most conditions. It mechanical problem. The only or Park and set the parking may go higher if you are driving up indication may be the temperature brake. Turn off the heating and a long steep hill on a very hot day. gauge climbing to or above the red cooling system and all other If it climbs to the red mark, you mark. Or you may see steam or accessories. Turn on the hazard should determine the reason. spray coming from under the hood. warning indicators. In either case, you should take NOTICE immediate action. 2. If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, Driving with the temperature turn off the engine. gauge pointer at the red mark can cause serious damage to your Steam and spray from an over- 3. If you do not see steam or spray, engine. heated engine can seriously leave the engine running and scald you. watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overload- Do not open the hood if steam ing (climbing a long, steep hill on is coming out. a hot day with the A/C running, for example), the engine should start to cool down almost immedi- ately. If it does, wait until the temperature gauge comes down to the midpoint then continue driving.

Taking Care of the Unexpected If Your Engine Overheats

4. If the temperature gauge stays at Let the engine cool down until 10.Start the engine and set the the red mark, turn off the engine. the pointer reaches the middle of temperature control lever to the temperature gauge, or lower, maximum. Add coolant to the 5. Wait until you see no more signs before checking the radiator. radiator up to the base of the of steam or spray, then open the filler neck. If you do not have the hood. proper coolant mixture available, you can add plain water. 6. Look for any obvious coolant Removing the radiator cap Remember to have the cooling leaks, such as a split radiator white the engine is hot can system drained and refilled with hose. Everything is still extreme- cause the coolant to spray out, the proper mixture as soon as ly hot, so use caution. If you find seriously scalding you. you can. a leak, it must be repaired before you continue driving (see Always let the engine and 11.Put the radiator cap back on Towing on page 164). radiator cool down before tightly. Run the engine and removing the radiator cap. watch the temperature gauge. If 7. If you don't find an obvious leak, it goes back to the red mark, the check the coolant level in the engine needs repair. (See radiator reserve tank (see page 9. Using gloves or a Large heavy Towing on page 164 .) 105). If the level is below the cloth, turn the radiator cap MIN mark, add coolant to half- counterclockwise, without 12.1f the temperature stays normal, way between the MIN and MAX pushing down, to the first stop. check the coolant level in the marks. This releases any remaining radiator reserve tank. If it has pressure in the cooling system. gone down, add coolant to the 8. If there was no coolant in the After the pressure releases, push MAX mark. Put the cap back on reserve tank, you may also have down on the cap and turn it until tightly. to add coolant to the radiator. it comes off.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Low Oil Pressure

1. Safely pull off the road and shut 4. Start the engine and watch the off the engine. oil pressure light. If the light does not go out within ten 2. Let the car sit for a minute. Open seconds, turn off the engine. the hood and check the oil level There is a mechanical problem (see page 101). Although oil level that needs to be repaired before and oil pressure are not directly you can continue driving. (See connected, an engine that is very Towing on page 164.) low on oil can loose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers. LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT 3. If necessary, add oil to bring the The low oil pressure light should level back to the full mark on the never come on when the engine is dipstick (see page 101). running. If this light comes on with the engine running, take immediate action.

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

Taking Care of the Unexpected 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 drive several miles before the not to use other electrically- battery is too discharged to keep operated controls such as the the engine running. Drive to a power windows. Keep the engine service station or garage where you running and take extra care not to can get technical assistance. stall it. Starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

CHARGING SYSTEM LIGHT The charging system light 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 Malfunction Indicator Lamp/Check Engine Light

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

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ CHECK ENGINE LIGHT You should also have the dealer inspect your car if the indicator If this indicator light comes on light comes on frequently, even while driving, there is a problem though it goes off when you follow with your engine or its emission the above procedure. control systems. Even though you, may feel no difference in your car's performance, 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 Fuses

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

The underhood fuse box is located The interior fuse box is underneath in the engine compartment next to the dashboard on the driver's side. the battery. To open, push the tab Remove the fuse box lid by swing- as shown. ing the lid down and pulling it straight out of its hinges.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Fuses

Checking and Replacing Fuses FUSE PULLER If something electrical in your car stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on the fuse box cover or inside the fuse box which fuse or fuses control that component. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that is not the cause. BLOWN Replace any blown fuses and check the component's operation. 3. Check each of the large fuses in 4. Check the smaller fuses in the 1. Turn the ignition switch to the underhood fuse box by underhood fuse box and all the LOCK (0). Make sure the head- looking through the top at the fuses in the interior fuse box by lights and all other accessories wire inside. Removing these pulling out each fuse with the are off. fuses requires a Phillips-head fuse puller provided in the screwdriver. interior fuse box. 2. Remove the cover from the fuse box.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Fuses

If you replace the burned out fuse 6. If the replacement fuse of the BLOWN with a spare fuse that has a lower same rating burns out in a short rating, it might blow out again. time, there is probably a serious This does not indicate anything electrical problem in your car. wrong. Replace the fuse with one Leave the burned out fuse in that of the correct rating as soon as you circuit and have your car check- can. ed by a qualified technician.

NOTICE Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances of damaging the 5. Look for a burned wire inside the electrical system. If you do not fuse. If it is burned out, replace it have a replacement fuse with the with one of the spare fuses of the proper rating for the circuit, install same rating or lower. one with a lower rating. If you cannot drive the car without fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the rear window defogger, or radio).

Taking Care of the Unexpected Towing

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

Taking Care of the Unexpected Technical Information

The diagrams in this section give Identification Numbers...... 166 you the dimensions and capacities Specifications...... 168 of your Honda, and the locations of Supplemental Restraint the identification numbers. The System...... 170 explanations of several electronic Emission Controls...... 171 and mechanical systems on your The Clean Air Act...... 171 Honda are for the more technically- Crankcase Emission Control oriented owner. System...... 171 Evaporative Emission Control System...... 171 Exhaust Emission Controls..... 172 PGM-FI System...... 172 Ignition Timing Control System...... 172 Three Way Catalytic Converter...... 172 Replacement Parts...... 172 Three Way Catalytic Converter...... 173

Technical Information 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 insur- ing 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 at- tached to the driver's door jamb, and is stamped on the engine com- partment bulkhead. The VIN is also provided in bar code on the Certification label.

CERTIFICATION LABEL

Technical Information Identification Numbers

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

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

ENGINE NUMBER

Technical Information Specifications

page 117. * 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine. *1 : S Reserve tank capacity: *2 : Si 0.4 (0.11 US gal, 0.09 Imp gal) * 2 : S * 3 : Si * 4 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

Technical Information Specifications

*1 : S *2 : Si

Technical Information Supplemental Restraint System

The SRS includes the steering The electrical charge sent to the To ensure long-term reliability, the wheel airbag assembly, sensors in airbag assembly ignites its propel- SRS uses gold-plated electrical the dashboard, and a control unit lant, which burns instantaneously. connections throughout. Exposed with sensors behind the center The gas produced by the burning components are sealed with epoxy. console. propellant inflates the airbag The control unit monitors the SRS instantly. circuitry whenever the ignition is The sensors are decelerometers, ON (II). If the control unit senses set to trigger in a severe frontal The airbag is vented so it stays any faults, it turns on the SRS impact that generates more force inflated for only an instant and indicator light on the instrument than a 25 mile per hour crash into a does not block the driver's vision. panel. Take the car to your Honda parked vehicle of similar size. For Smoke from the burned propellant dealer to diagnose and repair the the SRS to activate, at least two comes out of the airbag and into system as soon as possible. sensors must trigger. This duplica- the car's interior. This is normal tion is to prevent accidental activa- and does not mean there is a fire. The SRS needs no regular mainte- tion. The airbag collapses onto the nance other than an inspection by driver's lap. your Honda dealer ten years after When the control unit receives manufacture. trigger signals from at least two The airbag unit can inflate only one sensors, it sends voltage to the time. After use, your Honda dealer airbag. The control unit stores this must check the complete Supple- charge in capacitors to insure mental Restraint System and re- reliability even if a severe impact place the airbag assembly. damages the car's battery or electrical connections.

Technical Information Emission Controls

The burning of gasoline in your The Clean Air Act Crankcase Emission Control car's engine produces several by- The United States Clean Air Act* System products. Some of these are carbon sets standards for automobile Your car has a Positive Crankcase monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen emissions. It also requires that Ventilation System. This keeps (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). automobile manufacturers explain gasses that build up in the engine's Gasoline evaporating from the tank to owners how their emission crankcase from going into the also produces hydrocarbons. Con- controls work and what to do to atmosphere. The Positive Crank- trolling the production of NOx, CO, maintain them. This section case Ventilation valve routes them and HC is important to the environ- summarizes how the emission con- from the crankcase back to the ment. Under certain conditions of trols work. Scheduled maintenance intake manifold. They are then sunlight and climate, NOx and HC is on page 95 . drawn into the engine and burned. react to form photochemical "smog." Carbon monoxide does not contri- * In Canada, Honda vehicles Evaporative Emission bute to smog creation, but it is a comply with the Canadian Motor Control System poisonous gas. Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) As gasoline evaporates in the fuel for Emissions valid at the time they tank, an evaporative emission are manufactured. control 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 Emission Controls

Exhaust Emission Controls conditions. Replacement Parts The exhaust emission controls The emission control systems are include three systems: PGM-FI, Ignition Timing Control System designed and certified to work to- Ignition Timing Control and Three This system constantly adjusts the gether in reducing emissions to Way Catalytic Converter. These ignition timing, reducing the levels that comply with the Clean three systems work together to amount of HC, CO and NOx Air Act. To make sure the emis- control the engine's combustion produced. sions remain low, you should use and minimize the amount of HC, only new genuine Honda replace- CO, and NOx that comes out the Three Way Catalytic Converter ment parts or their equivalent for tailpipe. The exhaust emission The three way catalytic converter repairs. Using lower quality parts control systems are separate from is in the exhaust system. Through may increase the emissions from the crankcase and evaporative chemical reactions, it converts HC, your car. emission control systems. CO, and NOx in the engine's

exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO2), The emissions control systems are

PGM-FI System dinitrogen (N2), and water vapor. covered by warranties separate The PGM-FI System on this model from the rest of your car. Read is a sequential multiport fuel your warranty manual for more injection. information. The PGM-FI System on your car has three sub systems: Air Intake, Engine Control, and Fuel Control. The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses various sensors to determine how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all operating

Technical Information Three Way Catalytic Converter

The three way catalytic converter Keep the engine tuned-up. contains platinum and rhodium. These metals serve as catalysts, Have your car diagnosed and promoting chemical reactions to repaired if it is misfiring, back- convert the exhaust gasses without firing, stalling, or otherwise not affecting the metals. The catalytic running properly. converter is referred to 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. THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature A defective three way catalytic for the chemical reactions to take converter contributes to air place. It can set on fire any com- pollution, and can impair your bustible materials that come near it. engine's performance. Follow these Park your car away from high guidelines to protect your car's grass, dry leaves, or other flamma- three way catalytic converter. bles. Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter inef- fective.

Technical Information Warranty and Customer Relations

Warranty Coverages...... 176 Customer Relations Information...... 177 U.S. Zone Office Map...... 178 Canada Zone Office Map...... 179 Authorized Manuals...... 181

Warranty and Customer Relations Warranty Coverages

U.S. Cars Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a Replacement Battery Limited Your new Honda is covered by seat belt that fails to function Warranty — provides coverage for these warranties: properly is covered for the useful up to 36 months, with 100% cover- life of the car. age for the first 12 months. New Car Limited Warranty — provides coverage for defects in Rust Perforation Limited Replacement Muffler Lifetime materials and workmanship for 3 Warranty — body panels that rust Limited Warranty — provides years or 57,600 km (36,000 miles). through from the inside will be coverage for as long as the pur- repaired or replaced for up to 36 chaser of the muffler owns the car. Emission Control Systems De- months. There is no mileage limit. fects Warranty and Emissions There are restrictions and exclu- Performance Warranty — these Accessory Limited Warranty — sions which apply to all these war- two warranties cover your car's Genuine Honda Accessories are ranties. Please read the 1993 Honda emission control systems. Time, covered under this warranty. Time Warranties booklet that came with mileage, and coverage are condi- and mileage limits depend on the your car for precise information on tional. Please read the warranty type of accessory and other factors. warranty coverages. Your Honda's manual for exact information. Please read your warranty manual original tires are covered by their for details. manufacturer. Tire warranty infor- Original Equipment Battery mation is in a separate booklet. Limited Warranty — provides Replacement Parts Limited coverage for 36 months, with 100% Warranty — provides coverage for Canada Cars coverage for the first 24 months. defects in materials and workman- Please refer to the 1993 Warranty ship for 12 months or 19,200 km and Maintenance Guide that came (12,000 miles). with your car.

Warranty and Customer Relations 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 Customer Relations Zone Office. Vehicle Identification Number your dealership does not solve to Refer to the U.S. and Canadian (see page 166) your satisfaction, please discuss it Zone Office maps on the following Name and address of the dealer with the dealership's management. pages. who services your car The 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 Index

Airbag (SRS)...... 9 Air Cleaner...... 114 Accessories Air Conditioning...... 66 Battery Installation...... 77 Maintenance...... 122 Charging System Light...... 28 ACCESSORY Usage...... 66 Jump Starting...... 154 (Ignition Key Position)...... 44 Air Outlets (Vents)...... 62 Maintenance...... 117 Adding Air Pressure, Tires...... 123 Specifications...... 169 Automatic Transmission Alcohol and Drugs...... 21 Before Driving...... 69 Fluid...... 110 Alcohol in Gasoline...... 70 Belts, Seat...... 4 Brake Fluid...... 112 Antifreeze...... 105 Body Repair...... 143 Clutch Fluid...... 113 Anti-theft Steering Column Brakes Engine Coolant...... 105 Lock...... 44 Break-in, New Linings...... 70 Engine Oil...... 101 Appearance Care...... 137 Fluid...... 112 Manual Transmission Fluid... 111 Ashtrays...... 58 Light, Burned-out...... 132 Power Steering Fluid...... 113 Automatic Speed Control...... 40 Parking...... 55 Windshield Washer fluid...... 109 Automatic Transmission...... 84 System Light...... 28 Additional Safety Information..... 13 Capacity, Fluid...... 168 Wear Indicators...... 89 Door Locks...... 13 Checking Fluid Level...... 110 Braking System...... 89 Driving with Pets...... 14 Shifting...... 84 Break-in, New Car...... 70 Seat-back Position...... 13 Shift Lever Positions...... 84 Brightness Control, Storing Cargo Safely...... 14 Shift Lock Release...... 87 Instruments...... 36 Additives, Engine Oil...... 102 Auxiliary Lights...... 38 Brights, Headlights...... 35 Adjustments Replacing Bulbs...... 130 Mirrors...... 54 Turning on...... 38 Seats...... 46 Steering Wheel...... 39 CONTINUED Index

Bulb Replacement Changing Engine Coolant...... 106 CO in the Exhaust...... 171 Auxiliary Light...... 130 Charging System Light...... 28, 159 Cold Weather, Starting in...... 82 Back-up Lights...... 132 Check Engine Light...... 29, 160 Compact Spare...... 146 Brake Lights...... 132 Checking Console Compartment...... 57 Front Parking Lights...... 131 Automatic Transmission Consumer Information...... 177 Front Side Marker Lights...... 131 Fluid...... 110 Controls, Instruments and...... 25 Headlights...... 129 Battery Condition...... 117 Coolant License Plate Lights...... 133 Brake Fluid...... 112 Adding...... 105 Rear Side Marker Lights...... 132 Clutch Fluid...... 113 Checking...... 105 Specifications...... 169 Engine Belts...... 123 Proper Solution...... 105 Turn Signal Lights...... 131 Engine Coolant...... 105 Temperature Gauge...... 33 Bulbs, Halogen...... 129 Engine Oil...... 101 Corrosion Protection...... 142 Fuses...... 161 Crankcase Emission Control Manual Transmission Fluid... 111 System...... 171 Power Steering Fluid...... 113 Cruise Control Operation...... 40 Cables, Jump Starting With...... 154 Checklist, Before Driving...... 80 Cup Holder...... 57 Capacities Chart...... 168 Child Safety ...... 15 Customer Relations Office...... 177 Carbon Monoxide Hazard...... 22 Cigarette Lighter...... 58 Cargo, Loading...... 78 Cleaner, Air...... 114 CAUTION, Explanation of...... ii Cleaning Certification Label...... 166 Exterior...... 138 DANGER, Explanation of...... ii Chains...... 128 Interior...... 141 Dashboard...... 26 Change Oil Seat Belts...... 141 Daytime Running Lights...... 35 How to...... 103 Vinyl...... 141 Dead Battery, What to Do...... 154 When to...... 95 Clock, Setting the...... 56 Defects, Reporting Safety...... 23 Changing a Flat Tire...... 147 Clutch Fluid...... 113 Defogger, Rear Window...... 38 Index

Defrosting the Windows...... 68 Evaporative Emission DEXRON® II Automatic Controls...... 171 Transmission Fluid...... 110 Economy, Fuel...... 76 Exhaust Fumes...... 22 Dimensions...... 168 Emergencies on the Road...... 145 Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat Dimming the Headlights...... 35 Battery, Jump Starting...... 154 Belts by...... 8 Dipstick Changing a Flat Tire...... 147 Exterior, Cleaning the...... 138 Automatic Transmission...... 110 Charging System Light...... 159 Engine Oil...... 101 Check Engine Light...... 160 Directional Signals...... 36 Checking the Fuses...... 162 Disabled, Towing Your Car If... 164 Low Oil Pressure Light...... 158 Fabric, Cleaning...... 141 Disc Brake Wear Indicators...... 89 Malfunction Indicator Fan, Interior...... 64 Disposal of Used Oil...... 104 Lamp...... 160 Fan, Radiator...... 24 Doors Overheated Engine...... 156 Features, Comfort and Locking and Unlocking...... 44 Emergency Brake...... 55 Convenience...... 61 DOT Tire Quality Grading...... 126 Emergency Flashers...... 38 Filling the Fuel Tank...... 72 Downshifting, Manual Emission Controls...... 171 Filters Transmission...... 84 Engine Fuel ...... 115 Driving...... 79 Check Light...... 29, 160 Oil...... 103 Economy...... 76 Coolant Temperature Gauge... 33 First Gear, Shifting...... 84 In Bad Weather...... 90 Malfunction Indicator 5-speed Manual Transmission In Foreign Countries...... 71 Lamp...... 29, 160 Checking Fluid Level...... 111 Oil Pressure Light...... 28, 158 5-speed Manual Transmission, Oil, What Kind to Use...... 102 Shifting the...... 83 Overheating...... 156 Flashers, Hazard Warning...... 38 Specifications...... 168 Ethanol in Gasoline...... 71 CONTINUED Index

Flat Tire, Changing a...... 147 Gasoline...... 70 Heating and Cooling...... 62 Fluids Filter...... 115 High Altitude, Starting at...... 82 Automatic Transmission...... 110 Gauge...... 33 High-Low Beam Switch...... 35 Brake...... 112 Octane Requirement...... 70 Hood, Opening the...... 73 Clutch...... 113 Tank, Filling the...... 72 Horn...... 42 Manual Transmission...... 111 Gas Station Procedures...... 72 Hot Coolant, Warning about...... 105 Power Steering...... 113 Gauges Hydraulic Clutch...... 113 Windshield Washer...... 109 Engine Coolant Temperature.. 33 Hydroplaning...... 91 Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 71 Fuel...... 33 Four-way Flashers...... 38 Gearshift Lever Positions Front End, Towing by Emergency Automatic Transmission...... 84 Wrecker...... 164 Manual Transmission...... 84 Identification Number, Fuel...... 70 Glass Cleaning...... 142 Vehicle...... 166 Fill Door and Cap...... 72 Glove Box...... 56 If Your Car Has to be Towed.... 164 Filter...... 115 Ignition Gauge...... 33 Keys...... 43 Octane Requirement...... 70 Switch...... 43 Oxygenated...... 70 Halogen Headlight Bulbs...... 129 Timing Control System...... 172 Tank, Filling the ...... 72 Hazard Warning Flashers...... 38 Indicator Lights, Instrument Fuses, Checking the...... 162 Headlights Panel...... 27 Daytime Running Lights...... 35 Infant Restraint...... 17 High Beam Indicator...... 30 Inflation, Proper Tire...... 123 High Beams, Turning on...... 35 Inside Mirror...... 54 Gas Mileage, Improving...... 76 Low Beams, Turning on...... 35 Inspection, Tire...... 124 Gasohol...... 70 Replacing Halogen Bulbs...... 129 Instrument Panel...... 26 Turning on...... 35 Instrument Panel Brightness...... 36 Index

Interior Cleaning...... 141 Loading Cargo...... 78 Malfunction Indicator Interior Lights...... 59 LOCK (Ignition Key Position)..... 44 Lamp...... 29, 160 Introduction...... i Locks Anti-theft Steering Column.....44 Fuel Fill Door...... 72 Rear Locking Compartment.... 46 Neutral Gear Position...... 86 Jacking up the Car...... 149 Trunk...... 45 New Vehicle Break-in...... 70 Jack, Tire...... 148 Low Coolant Level...... 105 Normal Shift Speeds...... 84 Jump Starting...... 154 Lower Gear, Downshifting to a... 84 NOTICE, Explanation of...... ii Low Oil Pressure Light...... 28, 158 Numbers, Identification...... 166 Lubricant Specifications Chart...... 168 Keys...... 43 Luggage...... 78 Occupant Protection System...... 4 Octane Requirement, Gasoline.... 70 Odometer...... 32 Label, Certification...... 166 Maintenance...... 93 Odometer, Trip...... 32 Lane Change, Signaling...... 36 Periodic Items...... 99 Oil Lap/Shoulder Belts...... 6 Record...... 97-98 Change, How to...... 103 Leaking of Exhaust into Car...... 22 Schedule ...... 95-96 Change, When to...... 95 Lighter, Cigarette...... 58 Manual Transmission...... 83 Checking Engine...... 101 Lights Manual Transmission Fluid...... 111 Pressure Light...... 28 Bulb Replacement...... 129 Maximum Shift Speeds...... 84 Selecting Proper Viscosity Indicator...... 27 Meters, Gauges...... 32 Chart...... 102 Parking...... 35 Methanol in Gasoline...... 71 Turn Signal...... 36 Mirrors, Adjusting...... 54 CONTINUED Index

ON (Ignition Key Position)...... 44 Rear End Towing...... 164 Reserve Tank, Coolant...... 105 Opening the Hood...... 73 Rear Lights, Bulb Restraint, Child...... 15 Opening the Trunk...... 45 Replacement...... 132 Reverse Gear Position...... 86 Operation in Foreign Countries... 71 Rear Locking Compartment...... 46 Roof and Trunk Monitor...... 29 Outside Mirrors...... 54 Rear View Mirror...... 54 Rotation, Tire...... 125 Overheating, Engine...... 156 Rear Window Defogger...... 38 Reclining the Seat Backs...... 46 Recommended Shift Speeds...... 84 Reminder Lights...... 27 Safety Belts...... 5 Panel Brightness Control...... 36 Removable Roof Panel...... 49 Safety Defects, Reporting...... 23 Park Gear Position...... 85 Removing and Storing...... 50 Safety Labels, Location of...... 24 Parking Brake...... 55 Installing...... 51 Safety Messages...... ii Parking Lights...... 35 Roof Unlatched Indicator...... 53 Seat Belts...... 5 Parking Over Things that Replacement Information Advice for Pregnant Women..... 8 Burn...... 173 Air Cleaner...... 114 Child Seat Anchor Plate...... 20 PGM-FI System...... 172 Coolant...... 106 Cleaning...... 141 Polishing and Waxing...... 139 Engine Oil and Filter...... 103 Frayed or Torn...... 8 Power Fuel Filter...... 115 Maintenance...... 8 Mirrors...... 54 Fuses...... 161 Reminder Light and Beeper..... 28 Steering...... 113 Light Bulbs...... 129 Replacement...... 8 Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts...... 8 Schedule...... 95 System Components...... 6 Proper Seat Belt Usage...... 6 Spark Plugs...... 115 Tether Attachment Points...... 19 Tires...... 126 Use During Pregnancy...... 8 Wiper Blades...... 120 Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt.... 7 Replacing Seat Belts Radiator Overheating...... 156 After a Crash ...... 8 Index

Seats, Adjusting the...... 46 START (Ignition Key Position).. 44 Supplemental Restraint Serial Number...... 166 Starting the Engine...... 81 System...... 170 Service Intervals...... 95 In Cold Weather at High Three Way Catalytic Service Manual...... 181 Altitude...... 82 Converter...... 173 Service Station Procedures...... 72 With a Dead Battery...... 154 Temperature Gauge...... 33 Setting the Clock...... 56 Steam Coming from Engine...... 156 Tether Attachment Points...... 19 Shifting Steering Wheel Three Way Catalytic The Automatic Adjustment...... 39 Converter...... 173 Transmission...... 85 Anti-theft Column Lock...... 44 Time, Setting the...... 56 The 5-speed Manual Storing Your Car...... 135 Tire Chains...... 128 Transmission...... 83 Sun Visor...... 58 Tire, How to Change a Flat...... 147 Shift Lever Position Supplemental Restraint System Tires...... 123 Indicator...... 31, 84 Service Precautions...... 12 Air Pressure...... 123 Side Marker Lights, Bulb Servicing...... 12 Checking Wear...... 124 Replacement in...... 131 SRS Indicator...... 11, 29 Compact Spare...... 146 Signaling Turns...... 36 System Components...... 9 DOT Tire Quality Grading..... 126 Snow Tires...... 128 Technical Description...... 170 Inflation...... 123 Solvent-type Cleaners...... 138 Inspection...... 124 Spare Tire Replacing...... 126 Inflating...... 146 Rotating...... 125 Specifications...... 169 Tachometer...... 32 Snow...... 128 Spark Plugs, Replacing...... 115 Taillights, Changing Bulbs in.... 132 Specifications...... 169 Specifications Charts...... 168 Taking Care of the Tools, Tire Changing...... 147 Speed Control...... 40 Unexpected...... 145 Torn Seat Belts...... 8 Speedometer...... 32 Technical Descriptions SRS Indicator...... 11, 29 Emission Control Systems...... 171 CONTINUED Index

Towing Upholstery Cleaning...... 141 Wheels A Trailer...... 91 Used Oil, How to Dispose of...... 104 Adjusting the Steering...... 39 Emergency Wrecher...... 164 Alignment and Balance...... 125 Transmission Compact Spare...... 146 Checking Fluid Level, Wrench...... 148 Automatic...... 110 Vehicle Capacity Load...... 78 Windows Checking Fluid Level, Vehicle Dimensions...... 168 Cleaning...... 142 Manual ...... 111 Vehicle Identification Number.. 166 Rear, Defogger...... 38 Fluid Selection...... 110 Vehicle Storage...... 135 Windshield Identification Number...... 166 Ventilation...... 65 Cleaning...... 37 Shifting the Automatic...... 84 VIN...... 166 Defroster...... 68 Shifting the Manual...... 83 Vinyl Cleaning...... 141 Wipers, Windshield Treadwear...... 126 Viscosity, Oil...... 102 Changing Blades...... 120 Trip Meter...... 32 Operation...... 37 Trunk Worn Tires...... 124 Opening the...... 45 Wrecker, Emergency Towing... 164 Open Monitor...... 29 Warning Beeper Turn Signals...... 36 Seat Belts...... 28 WARNING, Explanation of...... ii Warning Labels, Location of...... 24 Warranty Coverages...... 176 Underside, Cleaning...... 138 Washer, Windshield Unexpected, Taking Care Checking the Fluid Level...... 109 of the...... 145 Operation...... 37 Uniform Tire Quality Grading.. 126 Washing...... 138 Unleaded Gasoline...... 70 Waxing and Polishing...... 139 Gas Station Information

Gasoline: Tire Pressure (measured cold): Other Tire Information: UNLEADED gasoline (S) See label in the glove box. Pump octane of 86 or higher Front/Rear: 220 kPa (2.2 kg/cm2 , 32 psi) 5-speed Manual Transmission Oil: Gas Tank Capacity: (Si) SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity 45 l (11.9 US gal, 9.9 Imp gal) Front/Rear: API SF or SG grade recommended 200 kPa (2.0 kg/cm2. 29 psi) Recommended Engine Oil: Capacity: API SG grade Spare Tire Pressure: 1.8 l (1.9 US qt,1.6 Imp qt) "Energy Conserving II" oil 415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm2, 60 psi) SAE 5W-30 viscosity Automatic Transmission Fluid: Tire Size (Front and Rear): Honda Premium Formula Automatic Engine Oil Capacity: (S) Transmission Fluid or an equivalent including filter P175/70R1382S DEXRON® II type Automatic Trans- 3.3 l (3.5 US qt, 2.9 Imp qt) (Si) mission Fluid (ATF) without filter P185/60R1482H 3.0 l (3.2 US qt, 2.6 Imp qt) Capacity: Spare Tire: 2.7 l (2.9 US qt, 2.4 Imp qt) T105/80D13