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Honda 1996 Civic Coupe Owner's Manual

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1996 Civic Coupe 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.
Owner's Identification
Introduction .........................................................................................................................................
A Few Words About Safety.................................................................................................................
Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls.................................................................................................................
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. . .
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving....................................................................................................................................
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving ................................................................................................................................................
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance .....................................................................................................................................
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Appearance Care..............................................................................................................................
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected ......................................................................................................
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Information.....................................................................................................................
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index.....................................................................................................................................................
Information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
Contents
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Summary of Contents for Honda 1996 Civic Coupe

  • Page 1: Table Of Contents

    1996 Civic Coupe 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 Introduction ............................A Few Words About Safety.........................

  • Page 2: Introduction

    One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is to read this manual. In it, you will learn about your vehicle's many safety features, and how to operate its driving controls and convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner's manual in your vehicle so you can refer to it at any time.
  • Page 3 A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol Your Honda or other property can be one of three words, DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. damaged if yon don't follow instruc- These mean: tions.

  • Page 4: Driver And Passenger Safety

    Driver and Passenger Safety This section gives you important Door Locks........Why Wear Seat Belts....information about occupant protec- Important Safety Reminders..Storing Cargo Safely....tion. It shows how to use seat belts Seat Belt System Components..Driving with Pets......properly.

  • Page 5: Your Occupant Protection System

    Your Occupant Protection System Your Honda is equipped with seat To get the maximum protection from Two indicator lights are also part of belts and other features that work your safety system. One reminds you your occupant protection system, together to protect you and your...

  • Page 6: The Seat Belt System And How It Works

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works Two people should never use the Why Wear Seat Belts same seat belt. If they do, they could Wearing seat belts, and wearing Not wearing a seat belt be very seriously injured in a crash. them properly, is fundamental to increases the chance of being your safety and the safety of your...

  • Page 7: Seat Belt System Components

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt The lap/shoulder belt retractor in Your Honda has seat belts in all five each passenger seating position has seating positions. The front seats SHOULDER UPPER an additional locking mechanism...

  • Page 8: Lap Belt

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works Lap Belt Wearing Seat Belts Properly Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt You can increase the effectiveness of Before putting on the seat belt, move your seat belts if you take a little the driver's seat as far back as is time to read the following pages and practical while still allowing you to maintain full control of the vehicle.
  • Page 9 The Seat Belt System and How It Works 1. Pull the latch plate across your 2. Check that the belt is not twisted. 4. Pull up on the shoulder part of the body and insert it into the buckle. belt to remove any slack. Make Tug on the belt to make sure the 3.

  • Page 10: Wearing The Lap Belt

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works 5. If the shoulder belt crosses your Wearing the Lap Belt neck while you are sitting in one of the outside positions of the rear seat, you need to adjust your seating position. Move toward the center of the seat until the belt fits over your collarbone.

  • Page 11: Advice For Pregnant Women

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works Advice for Pregnant Women 2. Position the belt as low as possible To unlatch the belt, push the red Protecting the mother is the best across your hips and pelvic bones, PRESS button on the buckle. way to protect her unborn child.

  • Page 12: Seat Belt Maintenance

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works If possible, use the lap/shoulder seat Seat Belt Maintenance belt, remembering to keep the lap For safety, you should check the portion as low as possible (see page condition of your seat belts regularly. Pull out each belt fully and look for Each time you have a check-up, ask frays, cuts, burns, and wear.

  • Page 13: Supplemental Restraint System

    Supplemental Restraint System Your car is equipped with a Supple- What Happens In a Crash SRS Components mental Restraint System (SRS) to Your supplemental restraint system If you ever have a severe frontal help protect the head and chest of includes: collision, the sensors will detect the driver and front seat passenger...

  • Page 14: Important Facts About Airbags

    Supplemental Restraint System After the crash, you may see what Important Facts About Airbags during a crash sequence. looks like smoke. This is actually Airbags inflate only when needed; in powder from the airbag's surface. a severe frontal collision. A severe Injuries, including fatal injuries, can People with respiratory problems collision would be similar to a crash...

  • Page 15: How The Driver's Airbag Works

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

  • Page 16: How The Passenger's Airbag Works

    Supplemental Restraint System The driver's airbag is stored in the How the Passenger's Airbag seat as far back as practical and sit center of the steering wheel. For Works well back in the seat. your safety, do not attach any items to the steering wheel.

  • Page 17: System Service

    The light does not come on when replaced. Do not try to remove or you turn the ignition ON (II). discard the airbags by yourself. This must be done by a Honda dealer. The light stays on after the engine starts.

  • Page 18: System Service Precautions

    Scrapping an entire car that has Do not modify your steering wheel uninflated airbags can be dangerous. or any other part of the supplemental Get assistance from a Honda dealer restraint system. Modifications could if your car must be scrapped. make the system ineffective.

  • Page 19: Additional Safety Information

    Additional Safety Information The seat belts and airbags are obvi- Seat-back Position Head Restraint Position ously important parts of your occu- The seat-backs should be in an pant protection system. upright position for you and your passengers to get the most protec- In addition, you should know that tion from the seat belts.

  • Page 20: Door Locks

    Additional Safety Information The recommended way to restrain a Door Locks Be sure to keep compartment doors medium-sized or larger dog is with a It is not safe to leave your car doors closed when the car is moving. If a special traveling harness.

  • Page 21: Child Safety

    Child Safety Where Should Children Sit? According to accident statistics, An infant or child who is not children of all sizes and ages are properly restrained can be killed safer when they are properly or seriously injured in a crash. restrained in the rear seat rather than the front seat.

  • Page 22: Important Safety Reminders

    Child Safety For their safety, do not leave If a toddler seat is used in the front Important Safety Reminders passenger's seat, the vehicle seat children alone in your car without Never hold a baby or child on your should be moved as far back as adult supervision.

  • Page 23: Under 18 Kg (40 Ibs)

    Child Safety To properly route a seat belt through Restraining an Infant Who General Guidelines for a child seat, follow the seat maker's Weighs Less Than 9 kg Restraining Children Under instructions. If you use a lap/ (20 Ibs) 18 kg (40 Ibs) Use an approved child seat.
  • Page 24 Child Safety We recommend that, whenever The preferred place to put a toddler Restraining a Child Who Weighs possible, you put the infant seat in Between 9 and 18 kg seat is in the center position of the the center position of the rear seat (20 and 4 0 Ibs) rear seat.

  • Page 25: Restraining A Child Who Weighs Over 18 Kg (40 Ibs)

    Child Safety Restraining a Child Who Weighs Securing a Child Seat with a Lap/ Put the seat belt on your child and Over 18 kg (40 Ibs) check its fit. The shoulder belt Shoulder Belt should fit over the collarbone and The lap/shoulder belt retractors in across the chest.

  • Page 26: Using Child Restraints With Tethers

    If not, unlatch the seat belt, allow them by writing to: it to retract fully, and repeat these steps. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Consumer Affairs To unlatch the seat belt, push the Your Honda has three attachment 1919 Torrance Blvd.

  • Page 27: Storing A Child Seat

    Child Safety Storing a Child Seat Canadian Cars When you are not using an infant seat or other child restraint, either TOOTHED WASHER remove it or make sure it is properly secured so it cannot be thrown around the car during a crash. The anchor plate and mounting hardware for a top tether are supplied with the car.

  • Page 28: Alcohol And Drugs

    Alcohol and Drugs Driving a car requires your full at- The safest thing you can do is never If you have no choice but to drive, tention and alertness. Traffic condi- drink and drive. This can be done if stop drinking and give yourself lots tions change rapidly.

  • Page 29: Carbon Monoxide Hazard

    Carbon Monoxide Hazard Your car's exhaust contains carbon With the trunk lid open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your car's monoxide gas. You should have no interior and create a hazardous problem with carbon monoxide Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. entering the car in normal driving if condition.

  • Page 30: Safety Labels

    They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully and don't remove them. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer RADIATOR CAP for a replacement. BATTERY Driver and Passenger Safety...

  • Page 31: Instruments And Controls

    Control Locations......Ignition Switch......the controls and displays that Indicator Lights........ Door Locks........contribute to the daily operation of Gauges..........Power Door Locks....... your Honda. All the essential Speedometer........ Remote Transmitter....controls are within easy reach. Tachometer........Trunk..........Odometer........Seat Adjustments......
  • Page 32 Control Locations MIRROR HEATING/COOLING AUDIO SYSTEM, CONTROLS CONTROLS DIGITAL CLOCK (P.62) (P.76, 81) (P.68) DOOR LOCK SWITCHES (P.51) POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.59) FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE (P.92) TRUNK RELEASE HOOD RELEASE HANDLE HANDLE (P.93) (P.55) Instruments and Controls...

  • Page 33: Indicator Lights

    Indicator Lights The instrument panel has many PARKING BRAKE AND indicators to give you important HIGH BEAM INDICATOR BRAKE SYSTEM information about your car. CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR* INDICATOR Lamp Check TRUNK-OPEN MALFUNCTION INDICATOR Many of the indicator lights come on INDICATOR LAMP when you turn the ignition switch LOW FUEL...
  • Page 34 Indicator Lights Seat Belt Reminder Light HIGH BEAM INDICATOR PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM This indicator lights when you turn INDICATOR* the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder to you and your passengers to CHARGING SYSTEM TRUNK-OPEN protect yourselves by fastening the INDICATOR INDICATOR seat belts.
  • Page 35 Indicator Lights Anti-lock Brake Charging System Parking Brake U.S. Canada Canada U.S. System (ABS) Indicator and Brake Indicator If this light comes on when the System engine is running, the battery is not Indicator Only on cars equipped with ABS (see being charged.
  • Page 36 Indicator Lights Turn Signal and Upshift Indicator Some road or traffic conditions may Hazard Warning require you to accelerate more Indicators On HX model with manual transmission rapidly or press the accelerator pedal almost to the floor. The light will not The left or right turn signal light The upshift indicator's purpose is to come on under those conditions.
  • Page 37 Gauges Odometer TACHOMETER TRIP METER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE TEMPERATURE The odometer shows the total dis- GAUGE 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 disconnect, reset, or alter the odometer with the intent to...
  • Page 38 Gauges Temperature Gauge TEMPERATURE TRIP METER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE This shows the temperature of the GAUGE 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 blue mark.
  • Page 39 Gauges When the distance driven since the Maintenance Required Indicator last scheduled maintenance nears 12,000 km (7,500 miles), the indicator will turn yellow. If you exceed 12,000 km (7,500 miles), the indicator will turn red. Your dealer will reset the indicator when he performs the scheduled maintenance.

  • Page 40: Controls Near The Steering Wheel

    Controls Near the Steering Wheel The two levers on the steering CRUISE INSTRUMENT PANEL HAZARD WARNING REAR WINDOW column contain controls for driving CONTROL BRIGHTNESS LIGHTS DEFOGGER features you use most often. The left lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams. The right lever controls the windshield wipers.
  • Page 41 Controls Near the Steering Wheel To flash the high beams, pull back Headlights If you leave the lights on with the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) and hold the turn signal lever. or LOCK (0), you will hear a Release the lever and the high reminder beeper when you open the beams will go off.
  • Page 42 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. TURN SIGNAL LEVER The dial on the dashboard to the left Signal a turn or lane change with this...
  • Page 43 Controls Near the Steering Wheel Windshield Wipers Windshield Washers The right lever controls the wind- To operate the wipers in mist mode, To clean the windshield, pull back on shield wipers and washers. The push the control lever down. The the wiper control lever.
  • Page 44 Controls Near the Steering Wheel Hazard Warning Rear Window Defogger Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive. The defogger wires on the inside of the rear window can be accidentally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side to side.

  • Page 45: Steering Wheel Adjustment

    Controls Near the Steering Wheel Steering Wheel Adjustment 3. Move the steering wheel up or You can adjust the steering wheel down to the desired position. height to suit your preference. Do Position the wheel so you can see this before you begin driving. all the instrument panel gauges and warning lights.

  • Page 46: Steering Wheel Controls

    Steering Wheel Controls Cruise Control Using the Cruise Control NOTICE On EX model hi the U.S., and Si model in Canada The cruise control, as it operates, Cruise control allows you to maintain moves the accelerator pedal. You can a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) damage your car's accelerator without keeping your foot on the mechanism by resting your foot under...
  • Page 47 Steering Wheel Controls You can decrease the set cruising Changing the Set Speed speed in either of two ways: You can increase the set cruising speed in either of two ways: Press and hold the SET/decel Press and hold the RESUME/ button.
  • Page 48 Steering Wheel Controls Even with the cruise control turned celerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h) Cancelling the Cruise Control on, yon can still use the accelerator Any of these actions cause the cruise and press the RESUME/accel button pedal to speed up for passing. After control to cancel.

  • Page 49: Keys And Locks

    Store this plate in a safe place. When replacing keys, use only Honda-approved key blanks. Your car comes with two kinds of The ignition switch is on the right keys: a master key and a valet key.
  • Page 50 Keys and Locks LOCK (0) - You can insert or ACCESSORY (I) — In this position, Door Locks remove the key only in this position. you can operate the audio system When you turn the key from LOCK and cigarette lighter (optional). to ACCESSORY, you may have to turn the steering wheel to release ON (II) —...
  • Page 51 Keys and Locks Power Door Locks Both doors lock when you push the lock tab on the driver's door in, or lock the driver's door from the outside with the key. Only the driver's door unlocks when you use the key or lock tab.
  • Page 52 Keys and Locks The interior light (if the interior Remote Transmitter as you press either button. If it light switch is in the center does not come on, replace the LOCK position) will come on when you battery. BUTTON press the Unlock button. If you do Horn Operation not open either door, the light will You can program the remote...
  • Page 53 Keys and Locks Panic Mode Replacing the Battery Panic mode allows you to remotely Open sound your car's horn to attract ROUND attention. To activate this mode, COVER press and hold the Panic button for about one second. Your car's horn CUSHION will beep for about 30 seconds.
  • Page 54 Also, protect it from extreme hot your Honda dealer. Any other clockwise. or cold temperatures. transmitters you have will also need to be reprogrammed.
  • Page 55 Keys and Locks Trunk TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE MASTER KEY MASTER KEY You can open the trunk in two ways: To close the trunk, press down on To protect items in the trunk when the trunk lid. you need to give the key to someone Pull the trunk release handle to else, lock the trunk release handle the left of the driver's seat.

  • Page 56: Seat Adjustments

    Seat Adjustments Front Seat Adjustments Reclining the seat-back can decrease the protection you get from your seat belt in a crash. You can slide under the seat belt and be seriously injured. Adjust the seat-back to an upright position and sit well back in the seat.
  • Page 57 Seat Adjustments Rear Seat Access On HX and EX models in the U.S., and Si Head Restraints model in Canada Push the passenger's seat-back while pushing the release lever to tilt the seat-back out of the way. The entire seat will slide forward at the same time.
  • Page 58 Seat Adjustments, Folding Rear Seat The front head restraints adjust for Folding Rear Seat MASTER KEY height. You need both hands to The back of the rear seat folds down adjust the restraint. Do not attempt to give you direct access to the to adjust it while driving.
  • Page 59 Folding Rear Seat, Power Windows Make sure all items in the trunk, or Power Windows items extending through the opening On HX and EX models in the U.S., and Si into the back seat, are tied down. model in Canada Loose items can fly forward and Your car's windows are electrically- cause injury if you have to brake...

  • Page 60: Power Windows

    Power Windows The master control panel also con- The MAIN switch controls power to DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH tains these extra features: the passenger's window. With this switch off, the passenger's window cannot be raised or lowered. The AUTO — To open the driver's MAIN switch does not affect the window fully, push the window driver's window.
  • Page 61 Moonroof, Mirrors Moonroof position, then release the switch. Mirrors To close the moonroof, press and hold the switch. Closing the moonroof on someone's hands or fingers can cause serious injury. Make sure passengers are clear of the moonroof before closing it. Keep the inside and outside mirrors On EX model in the U.S., and Si model clean and adjusted for best visibility.
  • Page 62 Mirrors, Parking Brake Adjusting the Power Mirrors Parking Brake ADJUSTMENT SWITCH SELECTOR SWITCH PARKING BRAKE LEVER 3. Push the appropriate edge of the To apply the parking brake, pull the On HX and EX models in the U.S., and Si adjustment switch to move the lever up fully.
  • Page 63 Parking Brake, Glove Box Glove Box NOTICE An open glove box can cause Driving the car with the parking brake serious injury to your passenger applied can damage the rear brakes in a crash, even if the and axles. passenger is wearing the seat belt.

  • Page 64: Beverage Holder

    Beverage Holder Be careful when you are using the beverage holder. A spilled liquid that is very hot can scald you or your passengers. Spilled liquids can also damage the upholstery, carpeting, Push and electrical components in the interior. To open the beverage holder, push Use the beverage holder only when on the top.
  • Page 65 Accessory Power Socket, Ashtrays Accessory Power Socket This socket is intended to supply Ashtrays power for 12 volt DC accessories (Optional) that are rated 120 watts or less (10 Front and rear ashtrays are available amps). as options. The front ashtray fits in the beverage holder.

  • Page 66: Interior Light

    Interior Light (U.S.: DX, HX, Canada: DX) (U.S.: EX, Canada: Si) DOOR ACTIVATED DOOR ACTIVATED The interior light has a three- On cars with remote transmitter position switch. In the OFF position, The interior light (with the switch in the center position) also comes on the light does not come on.

  • Page 67: Comfort And Convenience Features

    Comfort and Convenience Features The heating and air conditioning* Heating and Cooling......systems in your Honda provide a What Each Control Does.... comfortable driving environment in How to Use the System....all weather conditions. To Turn Everything Off..... Audio System........

  • Page 68: Heating And Cooling

    If your vehicle does not have air conditioning, it can be installed at any time. Your dealer will install a Genuine Honda air conditioning system that meets Honda's high quality standards and is designed to TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL CONTROL LEVER LEVER exactly fit your vehicle.
  • Page 69 Heating and Cooling Mode Buttons These buttons let you select which vents the air flows from. Air flows from the center and corner vents in the dashboard. Air flow is divided between the vents in the dashboard and the floor vents. Air flows from the floor vents.
  • Page 70 Heating and Cooling Vent Controls How to Use the System This section covers how to set up the SIDE VENT CENTER VENT system controls for ventilation, heating, cooling, dehumidifying, and defrosting. Open The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to Close generate hot and cold air.
  • Page 71 Heating and Cooling It is best to leave the system in Fresh RECIRCULATION AIR CONDITIONING MODE BUTTONS BUTTON BUTTON Air mode under almost all conditions. Keeping the system in Recirculation mode, particularly with the A/C off, can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to Recirculation mode when you are driving through smoky or dusty conditions, then switch back to...
  • Page 72 Heating and Cooling MODE BUTTONS RECIRCULATION AIR CONDITIONING To Cool with A/C BUTTON BUTTON 1. Turn on the A / C by pressing the button. The light in the button should come on. 2. Make sure the temperature control lever is all the way to the left.
  • Page 73 Heating and Cooling To Heat To Heat and Dehumidify with Air To Defog and Defrost To remove fog from the inside of the To warm the interior: Conditioning windows: Air conditioning, as it cools, removes 1. Start the engine. moisture from the air. When used in 2.
  • Page 74 Heating and Cooling To remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield and side windows after the car has been sitting out in AIR CONDITIONING RECIRCULATION cold weather: MODE BUTTONS BUTTON BUTTON 1. Start the engine. 2. Select When you select , the system automatically switches to Fresh Air mode and turns the A / C .
  • Page 75 Heating and Cooling These settings direct all the air flow To Turn Everything Off to the defroster vents at the base of To shut off the system temporarily, the windshield and the side window slide the fan speed and temperature defroster vents.

  • Page 76: Audio System

    Audio System A M / F M Stereo Audio System frequency. The frequency numbers Operating the Radio Your Honda's audio system provides will start to change rapidly. Release The ignition switch must be in clear reception on both AM and FM the bar when the display reaches the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).
  • Page 77 Audio System To store a frequency: 1. Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store PWR/VOL KNOB STEREO INDICATOR AM/FM BUTTON two frequencies with each Preset button. 2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function to tune the radio to a desired station.
  • Page 78 Audio System Adjusting the Sound MODE BUTTON Bass, Treble, Balance, and Fader are each adjustable. You select which of these you want to adjust by pressing the MODE button. The mode changes from BAS to TRE to FAD to BAL, and then back to VOL each time you press the button.
  • Page 79 Audio System Radio Frequencies Radio Reception Your Honda's radio can receive the How well your Honda's radio complete AM and FM bands. receives stations is dependent on Those bands cover these frequen- many factors, such as the distance cies: from the station's transmitter,...
  • Page 80 Audio System Electrical interference from passing vehicles and stationary sources can cause temporary reception problems. Radio signals, especially on the FM Radio reception can be affected by band, are deflected by large objects atmospheric conditions such as such as buildings and hills. Your thunderstorms, high humidity, and radio then receives both the direct even sunspots.
  • Page 81 Audio System Digital Clock The audio system also displays the time. The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II). TIME DISPLAYED To set the time, press the CLOCK button. The hour numbers will begin blinking. Press the Preset 5 button to get the numbers to count down, or the Preset 6 button to get the hours to count up.
  • Page 82 Audio System Operating the Cassette Player the other side, press the PROG press the A M / F M or CD/TAPE Standard on Si model in Canada button. button. To change back to the The cassette system features Dolby cassette player, press the CD/TAPE B* noise reduction, automatic Dolby B noise reduction turns on button.
  • Page 83 Audio System TMS — The Tape Music Search TUNE/SEEK PROG TAPE DIRECTION BUTTON BUTTON INDICATOR function allows you to find the beginning of a song or passage. To activate TMS, press FF or REW until AM/FM you hear a beep. You will see TMS BUTTON displayed.
  • Page 84 30 hours of use. the cassette to jam in the player. indication stays on after the cassette Your dealer has a cleaning kit ejects, take the car to your Honda Never try to insert a warped or available. dealer.
  • Page 85 Audio System Operating the Optional CD PWR/VOL KNOB REPEAT INDICATOR AM/FM BUTTON Player/Changer A Compact Disc changer is available through your dealer. It holds up to six discs, providing several hours of continuous entertainment. You operate the CD changer with the same controls used for the radio.
  • Page 86 Audio System Press the EJECT button to remove REPEAT — When you activate the To select a different disc than the the disc from the player. Repeat feature by pressing the RPT one that is playing, press the button, the system continuously appropriate preset button (1 —...
  • Page 87 Audio System Protecting Compact Discs Handle a CD by its edges; never touch either surface. Contamination from fingerprints, liquids, felt-tip pens, and labels can cause the CD to not play properly, or possibly jam in the drive. When a CD is not being played, store it in its case to protect it from dust and other contamination.
  • Page 88 If you see an error indication in the display while in CD mode, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error indication, take the car to your Honda dealer. Comfort and Convenience Features...

  • Page 89: Before Driving

    Before Driving Before you begin driving your Honda, Break-in Period........ you should know what gasoline to Gasoline..........use, and how to check the levels of Oxygenated Fuels......important fluids. You also need to Driving in Foreign Countries..know how to properly stow luggage Service Station Procedures ....
  • Page 90 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 paying being blended with alcohol or an tively on unleaded gasoline with a extra attention to how you drive ether compound.
  • Page 91 If you are planning to take your service station or switch to another Honda outside the U.S. or Canada, ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) brand of gasoline. contact the tourist bureaus in the...
  • Page 92 Service Station Procedures Filling the Fuel Tank 3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured 4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel when handling fuel.
  • Page 93 Service Station Procedures Opening the Hood SUPPORT ROD LATCH HOOD RELEASE HANDLE CLIP 1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set 2. Standing in front of the car, put 3. Pull the support rod out of its clip the parking brake. Pull the hood your fingers under the front edge and insert the end into the hole on release handle, located under the...
  • Page 94 Service Station Procedures Oil Check DIPSTICK Check the engine oil level every time 2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean 3. Insert it all the way back in its tube. you fill the car with fuel. Wait at least cloth or paper towel. two minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.
  • Page 95 Service Station Procedures Refer to Periodic Checks on page Engine Coolant Check for information on checking RESERVE other items in your Honda. TANK UPPER MARK M A X LOWER MARK M I N 4. Remove it again and check the Look at the coolant level in the level.

  • Page 96: Fuel Economy

    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 warm engine. It is not necessary to You can improve fuel economy by important things that affect the fuel driving moderately.
  • Page 97 Accessories Your Honda dealer has many acces- Some non-Honda accessories you Electronic communications equip- sories available to personalize your ment, such as cellular telephones can buy in the "aftermarket" are car. Some of these are audio systems, and two-way radios are regulated by designed for universal applications.

  • Page 98: Loading Cargo

    The maximum load you can carry in To figure out how much cargo you Where you store this cargo, and how your Honda is 395 kg (850 Ibs). It can carry: well you secure it, are just as includes the total weight of all important as how much it weighs.

  • Page 99: Driving

    Driving This section gives you tips on Preparing to Drive......starting the engine under various Starting the Engine......conditions, and how to operate the Starting in Cold Weather manual and automatic transmissions. at High Altitude..... It also includes important informa- 5-speed Manual Transmission ..

  • Page 100: Driving

    Preparing to Drive You should do the following checks 9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that 4. Check that any items you may be and adjustments every day before your passengers have fastened carrying with you inside are stored you drive your car. their seat belts (see page 7).

  • Page 101: Starting The Engine

    Starting the Engine 1. Apply the parking brake. 5. If the engine does not start within (8,000 feet) adds to the problem. 15 seconds, or starts but stalls Use the following procedure: 2. In cold weather, turn off all right away, repeal step 4 with the electrical accessories to reduce accelerator pedal pressed half-way 1.

  • Page 102: Speed Manual Transmission

    5-speed Manual Transmission Come to a full stop before you shift into reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into Rapid slowing or speeding-up reverse with the car moving. can cause loss of control on Depress the clutch pedal and pause slippery surfaces.
  • Page 103 5-speed Manual Transmission Maximum Speeds (U.S.: EX, Canada: Si) The speeds in this table are the maximums for the given gears. If you exceed these speeds, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer's red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out.

  • Page 104: Automatic Transmission

    Automatic Transmission Your Honda's transmission has four Shift Lever Positions forward speeds, and is electronically controlled for smoother shifting. It also has a "lock-up" torque converter for better fuel economy. You may feel what seems like another shift when the converter locks.
  • Page 105 Automatic Transmission SHIFT LEVER The shift lever has six positions. It Park (P) — This position mechani- must be in Park or Neutral to start cally locks the transmission. Use the engine. When you are stopped in Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine.
  • Page 106 Automatic Transmission If you have done all of the above and Reverse (R) — To shift to Reverse Drive (D ) —This position is similar still cannot move the lever out of from Park, see the explanation under to D , except only the first three Park, see Shift Lock Release on page Park.
  • Page 107 Automatic Transmission Second (2) — To shift to Second, Maximum Speeds (U.S.: EX, Canada: Si) press the release button on the side The speeds in this table are the of the shift lever. This position locks maximums for the given position. If the transmission in second gear.
  • Page 108 If you need to use the Shift Lock button does not work. Release, it could mean your car is developing a problem. Have the car checked by your Honda dealer. 1. Set the Parking brake. 2. Remove the key from the ignition switch.
  • Page 109 ON (II). If it flashes brake pedal and keep your foot off while driving (in any shift position), the accelerator pedal. it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid accelera- tion and have the transmission checked by an authorized Honda CONTINUED Driving...
  • Page 110 Automatic Transmission (CVT) Park (P) — This position mechani- cally locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press the on the brake pedal, have your foot off the accelerator pedal, and press the release button on the side of the shift lever.
  • Page 111 Automatic Transmission (CVT) Reverse (R) — To shift from Re- Drive (D) — Use this position for Sports Mode (S) — Selecting Sports verse to Park, see the explanation your normal driving. The transmis- Mode shifts the transmission into a under Park.
  • Page 112 Automatic Transmission (CVT) The CVT shifts automatically to maintain proper engine speed in any gear position. Driving...

  • Page 113: The Braking System

    The Braking System All Civics are equipped with front Constant application of the brakes Brake Wear Indicators disc brakes. The brakes on the rear when going down a long hill builds The front disc brakes on all cars wheels are drum. The braking up heat and reduces their effective- have audible brake wear indicators.
  • Page 114 The Braking System Brake System Design If this happens, you will immediately Anti-lock Brakes The hydraulic system that operates notice that the brake pedal goes It is optional on the all models. the brakes has two separate circuits. down much farther and you need to For a further explanation of the ABS Each circuit works diagonally across press on it much harder.
  • Page 115 The Braking System The ABS is always "On". It requires A car with ABS may require a longer ABS INDICATOR* no special effort or driving technique. distance to stop on loose or uneven You will feel a pulsation in the brake surfaces than an equivalent car with- pedal when the ABS activates.

  • Page 116: Driving In Bad Weather

    Driving in Bad Weather Visibility — Being able to see Driving Technique — Always 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 important react, even in conditions that may in all weather conditions.
  • Page 117 Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer Towing a Trailer Traction — Check your tires frequently for wear and proper Your car is not designed to tow a pressure. Both are important in trailer. Attempting to do so can void your warranties.

  • Page 118: Maintenance

    If you have the skills and tools Level........135 Maintenance....... required to perform more complex Tire Rotation......Adding Engine Coolant..... maintenance tasks on your Honda, Replacing Tires and Wheels ..Replacing Engine Coolant..you may want to purchase the Wheels and Tires....... Windshield Washers.....

  • Page 119: Maintenance Safety

    It will also reward you should be performed by a Honda arise in performing maintenance. with more economical, trouble-free Only you can decide whether or not technician or other qualified driving and help reduce air pollution.
  • Page 120 Maintenance Safety Important Safety Precautions Read the instructions before you Before you begin any maintenance, begin, and make sure you have the make sure your car is parked on tools and skills required. level ground and that the parking brake is on. Also, be sure the engine To reduce the possibility of fire or is off.

  • Page 121: Maintenance Schedule

    Maintenance Schedule The Maintenance Schedule specifies The services and time or distance Which Schedule to Follow: how often you should have your car intervals shown in the maintenance Service your car according to the serviced and what things need schedule assume you will use your time and mileage periods on one of the Maintenance Schedules on pages attention.
  • Page 122 Your authorized Honda dealer We recommend the use of Genuine According to state and federal knows your car best and can provide Honda parts and fluids whenever you regulations, failure to perform competent, efficient service. have maintenance done. These are...
  • Page 123 Maintenance Schedule (Normal Conditions) Follow the Normal Maintenance Schedule if the severe driving conditions specified in the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule on the next page do not apply. For Canadian Owners: This Maintenance Schedule outlines the minimum required maintenance that you should perform to ensure the trouble- free operation of your vehicle.
  • Page 124 Maintenance Schedule (Severe Conditions) Follow the Severe Maintenance Schedule if you drive your vehicle MAINLY under one or more of the following condi- tions: Driving less than 8 km (5 miles) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 16 km (10 miles) per trip. Driving in extremely hot [over 90°...

  • Page 125: Required Maintenance Record

    Required Maintenance Record Have your servicing dealer record all Required Maintenance below. Keep receipts for all work done on your car. Maintenance...
  • Page 126 Non-Scheduled Maintenance Record Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non-scheduled maintenance on this page (see page Maintenance...

  • Page 127: Periodic Checks

    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 94.

  • Page 128: Fluid Locations

    Fluid Locations BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap) (5-M/T only) CLUTCH FLUID (Gray cap) ENGINE OIL AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FILL CAP FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop) POWER STEERING (Including CVT) FLUID (Red cap) COOLANT WASHER FLUID RESERVOIR (Blue cap) ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop) Maintenance...

  • Page 129: Engine Oil

    Engine Oil Checking Engine Oil Adding Oil DIPSTICK ENGINE OIL FILL CAP UPPER MARK LOWER MARK Check the engine oil a couple of To add oil, unscrew and remove the 3. Pull it out again and look at the oil minutes after shutting off the engine.
  • Page 130 An oil that is only classified container. SF is not recommended. A fuel-efficient oil is recommended for your Honda. This is shown on the API Service label by the words "Energy Conserving I I . " This oil is formulated to help your engine use API CERTIFICATION MARK less fuel.
  • Page 131 It only increases the cost preferred for improved fuel economy mechanic. of operating your car. and year-round protection in your Honda. You may use a 10W-30 oil if the temperature in your area never goes below 20° F ( — 7°C). Maintenance...
  • Page 132 A special drain bolt from the bottom of the wrench (available from your engine. Drain the oil into an Honda dealer) is required to appropriate container. remove the filter. 4. Install a new oil filter according to instructions that come with it.
  • Page 133 Engine Oil 5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt, 7. Replace the engine oil fill cap. NOTICE then reinstall the drain bolt. Start the engine. The oil pressure Tighten it to: indicator light should go out within If you change your own oil, please five seconds.

  • Page 134: Cooling System

    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 nents that can corrode if an improper coolant level in the radiator.
  • Page 135 Cooling System Do not add any rust inhibitors or RADIATOR CAP RESERVE TANK other additives to your car's cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine compo- nents. 2. Turn the radiator cap counter- 4. The coolant level should be up to clockwise, without pressing clown the base of the filler neck.
  • Page 136 Cooling System Replacing Engine Coolant DRAIN PLUG The cooling system should be completely drained and refilled with new coolant according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. Only use recommended antifreeze. Draining the coolant requires access to the underside of the car. Unless you have the tools and knowledge, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.
  • Page 137 Cooling System 5. When the coolant stops draining, RESERVE FILLER NECK RESERVE tighten the drain plug in the TANK TANK CAP bottom of the radiator. 6. Mix the recommended antifreeze with an equal amount of purified or distilled water in a clean container.
  • Page 138 Cooling System 8. Put the cap on the radiator, only RESERVE TANK tighten it to the first stop. Start the engine and let it run until it warms Removing the radiator cap up (the radiator cooling fan comes while the engine is hot can on at least twice).

  • Page 139: Windshield Washers

    Windshield Washers Check the level in the windshield NOTICE WINDSHIELD WASHER RESERVOIR washer reservoir at least monthly during normal usage. In bad weather, Do not use engine antifreeze or a when you use the washers often, vinegar/water solution in the wind- check the level every time you stop shield washer reservoir.

  • Page 140: Transmission Fluid

    UPPER MARK HX model (CVT) only LOWER MARK Use Genuine Honda CVT fluid only. 2. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) Using other fluids can affect from the transmission and wipe it transmission operation and may with a clean cloth.
  • Page 141 FILLER BOLT They are: Brake fluid reservoir (all models) If Honda M T F is not available, you Clutch fluid reservoir may use an API service SG or SH- (manual transmission only) rated motor oil with a viscosity of SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 temporarily.

  • Page 142: Brake And Clutch Fluid

    If you add brake fluid to bring it up Clutch System to the MAX mark, use Genuine Honda Brake Fluid or an equivalent from a sealed container that is marked DOT3 or DOT4 only. Brake fluid marked DOT5 is not compatible with your car's braking system.

  • Page 143: Power Steering

    LOWER LEVEL, add power steering LOWER LEVEL fluid to the UPPER LEVEL. NOTICE Using automatic transmission fluid or another brand of power steering fluid will damage the system. Use only GENUINE HONDA Power Steering Fluid-V. Maintenance...

  • Page 144: Air Cleaner

    Air Cleaner The air cleaner element should be CLIPS replaced according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. AIR CLEANER ELEMENT On DX model Clean the inside of the air cleaner The air cleaner element is inside the housing with a damp rag.
  • Page 145 Air Cleaner 4. Align the tabs and reinstall the air AIR CLEANER cleaner housing cover, snap the ELEMENT two clips back into place. CLIPS 2. Remove the old air cleaner On HX and EX models in the U.S.,and Si element. model in Canada The air cleaner element is inside the Clean the inside of the air cleaner...

  • Page 146: Spark Plugs

    Spark Plugs The spark plugs in your car need to Replacement be replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), whichever comes SPARK PLUG CAP first. 1. Clean up any dirt and oil around 4. Put the new spark plug into the socket, then thread it into the hole.
  • Page 147 Spark Plugs Specifications: NOTICE (U.S.: HX) Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A NGK: ZFR4F-11 spark plug that is too loose can Nippondenso: KJ14CR-L11 overheat and damage the engine. Overtightening can cause damage to (U.S.: DX,EX, Canada: DX,Si) the threads in the cylinder head. NGK: ZFR5F-L11 6.
  • Page 148 Battery Check the condition of your car's Emergency Procedures battery monthly. You should check for proper electrolyte level and The battery contains sulfuric Eyes — Flush with water from a cup corrosion on the terminals. acid (electrolyte) which is highly or other container for at least fifteen corrosive and poisonous.
  • Page 149 Battery Check the battery terminals for TEST INDICATOR WINDOW corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water.
  • Page 150 Battery If you need to connect the battery to NOTICE a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damage to the car's electri- Charging the battery with the cables cal system. connected can seriously damage your car's electronic controls. Detach the battery cables before connecting the battery to a charger.

  • Page 151: Windshield Wipers

    Windshield Wipers Check the condition of the wind- WIPER ARMS shield wiper blades at least every six months. Look for signs of cracking in the rubber, or areas that are getting hard. Replace the blades if you find these signs, or they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.
  • Page 152 Windshield Wipers 5. Slide the new wiper blade into the BLADE holder until the tabs lock. BLADE 6. Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place. 7. Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield.

  • Page 153: Air Conditioning

    Air Conditioning Optional for all models If the air conditioning does not get as Periodically check the engine's Your car's air conditioning is a sealed cold as before, have your dealer radiator and air conditioning system. Any major maintenance, condenser for leaves, insects, and check the system.
  • Page 154 Drive Belts, Tires Drive Belts The belts should have the following Tires To safely operate your car, your tires "play" or deflection. POWER STEERING ALTERNATOR must be the proper type and size, in Alternator belt: BELT BELT 8.0 — 10.5 mm (0.31 — 0.41 in) good condition with adequate tread, Power steering belt: and correctly inflated.
  • Page 155 Tires (DX) Inflation before checking the tire pressure, Keeping the tires properly inflated the tires can still be considered provides the best combination of "cold" if you drive less than 1.6 km handling, tread life and riding (1 mile). comfort. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling If you check the pressure when the and fuel economy, and are more...
  • Page 156 Tires You should get your own tire You should look for: Your car's tires have wear indicators pressure gauge and use it whenever molded into the tread. When the you check your tire pressures. This tread wears down to that point, you Bumps or bulges in the tread or will make it easier for you to tell if a will see a 12.7 mm (1/2 inch) wide...
  • Page 157 NOTICE bias-ply tires on your car can reduce chart each time they are rotated. its braking ability, traction, and (HX) steering accuracy. Improper wheel weights can damage your car's aluminum wheels. Use only genuine Honda wheel weights for balancing. Maintenance...
  • Page 158 Replacement for information about DOT Tire stability. This can cause a crash wheels are available at your Honda Quality Grading. in which you can be seriously dealer. hurt or killed.
  • Page 159 NOTICE If you mount snow tires on your Mount snow chains on your car Honda, make sure they are radial when warranted by driving condi- Chains of the wrong size or that are tires of the same size and load range tions or required by local laws.
  • Page 160 Lights If you find any bulbs are burned out, Headlight Aiming Check the operation of your car's exterior lights at least once a month. replace them as soon as possible. The headlights were properly aimed A burned out bulb can create an Refer to the chart on page when your car was new.
  • Page 161 Lights HORIZONTAL ANGLE GAUGE VERTICAL ANGLE GAUGE HORIZONTAL ADJUSTMENT BUBBLE 3. Open the hood. 5. Check the vertical angle gauge. 6. If either indicator is not aligned The bubble should be centered with its "0" mark as described, an adjustment can be made using a 4.
  • Page 162 7. If you cannot get an indicator to 1. Open the hood. when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch align, have your Honda dealer If you need to change the head- on the glass can cause the bulb to inspect the car for body damage or light bulb on the driver's side, overheat and shatter.
  • Page 163 Lights 3. Remove the rubber weather seal 8. (Driver's side) WEATHER SEAL BULB by pulling on the tab. Reinstall the power steering reservoir. 4. Unclip the end of the hold-down wire from its slot. Pivot it out of the way and remove the bulb. 5.
  • Page 164 Lights 5. Remove the burned out bulb from Replacing the Front Side Marker/ Turn Signal and Parking Light the socket by pushing it in and Bulb turning counterclockwise until it unlocks. HOLDING CLIP 6. Install the new bulb in the socket. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
  • Page 165 Lights Replacing Rear Bulbs 4. Pull the bulb straight out of its (in Fenders) socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms. 5. Reinstall the socket into the light assembly by turning it clockwise until it locks. 6.
  • Page 166 Lights Replacing Rear Bulbs (in Trunk Lid) SCREW 3. Determine which of the two bulbs 8. Reset the fastener by pushing on 1. Open the trunk. is burned out: stop/taillighl/side the pointed end until it pops back almost flush with the fingers on marker or back-up light.
  • Page 167 Lights Replacing a High-mount Brake 3. Reinstall the socket. Turn it 5. Pull the bulb straight out of its Light Bulb clockwise until it locks. Make sure socket. the new bulb is working. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms. 6.
  • Page 168 Lights Replacing an Interior Light Bulb Replacing a Rear License Bulb (U.S.: EX, Canada: Si) INTERIOR LIGHT 1. Remove the two screws and 4. Turn on the parking lights and remove the license light assembly. check that the new bulb is 1.
  • Page 169 Lights Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb 2. Remove the bulb by pulling it (U.S.: DX, HX, Canada: DX) straight out of its metal tabs. The trunk light is available on HX and EX models in the U.S., and Si model INTERIOR LIGHT 3.

  • Page 170: Storing Your Car

    Fill the fuel tank. Disconnect the battery. If you store your car for 12 months Change the engine oil and filter or longer, have your Honda dealer Support the front wiper blade perform the inspections called for in (see page 132).

  • Page 171: Appearance Care

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

  • Page 172: Exterior Care

    Letting it to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You air-dry will cause dulling and water should use a wax on your Honda spots. when it is new. Appearance Care...
  • Page 173 You solution, and rinse them thoroughly. your dealer so you are sure to get should use a polish on your Honda if the correct color. the finish does not have its original The wheels have a protective clear- shine after using a wax.
  • Page 174 Interior Care Carpeting Vinyl Vacuum the carpeting frequently to Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft the carpet wear out faster. cloth dampened in a solution of mild Periodically shampoo the carpet to soap and water.
  • Page 175 The rear window defogger wires are Many corrosion-preventive measures bonded to the inside of the glass. are built into your Honda. You can Wiping vigorously up-and-down can help keep your car from corroding dislodge and break the defogger wires.
  • Page 176 Body repairs can affect your car's and body. resistance to corrosion. If your car want genuine Honda parts used in needs repairs after a collision, pay the repair. Although most insurers Check the floor coverings for...

  • Page 177: Taking Care Of The Unexpected

    Taking Care of the Unexpected This section covers the more- Compact Spare Tire....... common problems that motorists Changing a Flat Tire ..... experience with their cars. It gives If Your Engine Won't Start... you information about how to safely Nothing Happens....... evaluate the problem and what to do The Starter Operates to correct it.

  • Page 178: Compact Spare Tire

    Compact Spare Tire Your car has a compact spare tire Follow these precautions whenever INDICATOR LOCATION MARK that takes up less space. Use this you are using the compact spare tire: spare tire as a temporary replace- ment only. Get your regular tire Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) repaired or replaced and put back on under any circumstances.
  • Page 179 Changing a Flat Tire If you have a flat tire while driving, 3. Open the trunk. Raise the trunk SPARE TIRE TRUNK FLOOR stop in a safe place to change it. floor by lifting up on the back edge. Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder of a busy road is dangerous.
  • Page 180 Changing a Flat Tire JACKING POINT WHEEL WRENCH 6. Turn the jack's end bracket 7. Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2 8. Locate the jacking point nearest counterclockwise to loosen it, then turn with the wheel wrench. the tire you need to change. It is remove the jack.
  • Page 181 Changing a Flat Tire BRAKE HUB EXTENSION WHEEL WRENCH 9. Use the extension and wheel On DX and EX models in the U.S., and 11.Before mounting the spare lire, wrench as shown to raise the car DX find Si in Canada wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with until the flat tire is off the ground.
  • Page 182 Changing a Flat Tire 12.Put on the spare tire. Put the 13.Lower the car to the ground and 14.Tighten the wheel nuts securely in wheel nuts back on finger-tight, remove the jack. the same crisscross pattern. Have then tighten them in a crisscross the wheel nut torque checked at pattern with the wheel wrench the nearest automotive service...
  • Page 183 Changing a Flat Tire 18.Store the jack in the trunk with the WING BOLT end bracket on the left side. Turn SPACER the jack's end bracket to lock it in CONE place. Store the tool kit. 19. Store the wheel cover or center cap in the trunk.
  • Page 184 If Your Engine Won't Start Diagnosing why your engine won't Nothing Happens or the Starter Turn the ignition switch to START start falls into two areas, depending Motor Operates Very Slowly (III). If the headlights do not dim, on what you hear when you turn the When you turn the ignition switch to check the condition of the fuses.
  • Page 185 Check all the fuses sories: heater, A/C, stereo system, (see page 195). lights, etc. You cannot start a Honda with an Put the transmission in Neutral or automatic transmission by pushing Park and set the parking brake. If you find nothing wrong, you will or pulling it.

  • Page 186: Jump Starting

    Connect the end to the positive ( + ) terminal sure they have good metal-to- other end to the grounding strap on your Honda's battery. as shown. Do not connect this metal contact. jumper cable to any other part of the engine.

  • Page 187: If Your Engine Overheats

    If Your Engine Overheats 1. Safely pull to the side of the road. The pointer of your car's tempera- Your car can overheat for several Put the transmission in neutral or ture gauge should stay in the mid- reasons, such as lack of coolant or a range under most conditions.
  • Page 188 If Your Engine Overheats 4. If the temperature gauge stays at reaches the middle of the tempera- 10.Start the engine and set the the red mark, turn off the engine. ture gauge, or lower, before check- temperature control lever to ing the radiator.
  • Page 189 Low Oil Pressure 4. Start the engine and watch the oil NOTICE LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR pressure light. II the light does not go out within ten seconds, turn off Running the engine with low oil the engine. There is a mechanical pressure can cause serious mechanical problem that needs to be repaired damage almost immediately.
  • Page 190 Charging System Indication Immediately turn off all electrical By eliminating as much of the CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR accessories: radio, heater, A/C, rear electrical load as possible, you can defogger, cruise control, etc. Try not drive several miles before the to use other electrically-operated battery is too discharged to keep the controls such as the power windows.

  • Page 191: Malfunction Indicator Lamp

    Malfunction Indicator Lamp If this indicator light comes on, have NOTICE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP your car checked by the dealer as soon as possible. Drive moderately If you keep driving with the malfunc- until the dealer has inspected the tion indicator lamp on, you can damage problem.

  • Page 192: Closing The Moonroof

    Closing the Moonroof If the electric motor will not close ROUND PLUG the moonroof, do the following: SOCKET 1. Check the fuse for the moonroof motor (see page 195). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating.
  • Page 193 Fuses All the electrical circuits in your car INTERIOR UNDER-HOOD have fuses to protect them from a short circuit or overload. These fuses are located in two or three fuse boxes. The interior fuse box is underneath The under-hood fuse box is located the dashboard on the driver's side.
  • Page 194 Fuses Checking and Replacing Fuses ABS FUSE BOX FUSE If something electrical in your car stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages and 199, or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that component.
  • Page 195 Fuses If you replace the blown fuse with a FUSE PULLER BLOWN spare fuse that has a lower rating, it might blow out again. This does not indicate anything wrong. Replace the fuse with one of the correct rating as soon as you can.
  • Page 196 Fuses INTERIOR FUSE BOX : On Canadian cars Taking Care of the Unexpected...
  • Page 197 Fuses UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX ABS FUSE BOX Taking Care of the Unexpected...
  • Page 198 Emergency Towing There are three popular methods of If your Honda cannot be transported It is best to tow the car no farther towing a car: by flat-bed, it should be towed with than 80 km (50 miles), and keep the front wheels off the ground.

  • Page 199: Technical Information

    The diagrams in this section give Identification Numbers....Emission Controls......you the dimensions and capacities of Specifications......... The Clean Air Act...... your Honda, and the locations of the Anti-lock Brake System....Crankcase Emission Control identification numbers. The expla- Tire Information......System........210 nations of several electronic and Tire Size Designation....

  • Page 200: Identification Numbers

    VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the 17-digit number your Honda dealer uses to register your car for warranty purposes. It is also necessary for licensing and insuring your car. The easiest place to find the VIN is on a plate fastened to the top of the dashboard.
  • Page 201 Identification Numbers The Engine Number is stamped into TRANSMISSION NUMBER the engine block. The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission. ENGINE NUMBER Technical Information...

  • Page 202: Technical Information

    Specifications page 1 : DX 2 : U.S. HX, EX, Canada: Si 3 : U.S. DX, HX, Canada: DX 4 : U.S. EX, Canada: Si 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.4 (0.11 US g a l , 0.09 Imp gal) 2 : DX...

  • Page 203: Specifications

    Specifications page page 1 : Without moonroof 2 : With moonroof 1 : DX 2 : U.S.: HX, EX, Canada: Si 3 : U.S. DX, HX, Canada: DX 4 : U.S. EX, Canada: Si 5 : DX with ABS 6 : U.S. HX with ABS, EX with ABS, Canada: Si with ABS Technical Information...
  • Page 204 Anti-lock Brake System Only on cars equipped with ABS Each wheel has a wheel speed brake line to that wheel. The ABS works by measuring how sensor assembly. As the wheel fast the wheels are turning during rotates, the sensor sends electrical The control unit also contains error braking and comparing their speeds.

  • Page 205: Tire Information

    Tire Information Tire Size Designation 85 — Load Index, a numerical code Tire Speed Ratings A tire's sidewall is marked with a tire associated with the maximum load The chart below shows many of the size designation. You will need this the tire can carry.
  • Page 206 Tire Pressure Adjustment For Treadwear High Speed Driving The treadwear grade is a compara- Honda strongly recommends that tive rating based on the wear rate of you not drive faster than posted the tire when tested under controlled speed limits and conditions allow. If conditions on a specified government test course.
  • Page 207 Tire Information Warning: The temperature grade for Traction Temperature The traction grades, from highest to this tire is established for a tire that The temperature grades are A (the lowest, are A, B, and C, and they is properly inflated and not over- highest), B, and C, representing the represent the tire's ability to stop on tire's resistance to the generation of...

  • Page 208: Emission Controls

    NOx and HC react to 124. the engine and burned. form photochemical "smog." Carbon monoxide does not contribute to * In Canada, Honda vehicles comply Evaporative Emission Control smog creation, but it is a poisonous with the Canadian Motor Vehicle System gas.
  • Page 209 System minimize the amount of HC, CO, and genuine Honda replacement parts or Only on HX model NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The their equivalent for repairs. Using...

  • Page 210: Three Way Catalytic Converter

    The catalytic 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. The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature...

  • Page 211: Warranty And Customer Relations

    Warranty and Customer Relations Warranty Coverages..... Customer Relations Information......... U.S. Zone Office Map....Canada Zone Office Map....Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Cars)........Authorized Manuals...... Warranty and Customer Relations...

  • Page 212: Warranty Coverages

    Warranty Coverages Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat Replacement Battery Limited U.S. Owners Your new Honda is covered by these belt that fails to function properly is Warranty — provides prorated warranties: covered for the useful life of the car.
  • Page 213 Customer Relations Information Honda dealership personnel are When you call or write, please give If you are dissatisfied with the trained professionals. They should us this information: decision made by the dealership's be able to answer all your questions. management, contact your Honda If you encounter a problem that your Customer Relations Zone Office.
  • Page 214 NHTSA, U.S. Department of Administration (NHTSA) in addition However, NHTSA cannot become Transportation, Washington, to notifying American Honda Motor involved in individual problems D.C. 20590. You can also obtain Co., Inc. other information about motor between you, your dealer, or vehicle safety from the Hotline.

  • Page 215: Index

    Index Automatic Transmission....Head Restraints......Mirrors.......... Capacity, Fluid......Checking Fluid Level....Accessories Seats..........Shifting........105 Installation........Steering Wheel......ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Shift Lever Positions....Airbag (SRS)........Position)........Shift Lock Release..... Air Cleaner........Accessory Power Socket....Air Conditioning....... Adding Maintenance....... Automatic Transmission Usage..........
  • Page 216 Index Brakes Specifications......Checking Anti-lock System (ABS).... Trunk Light........ Automatic Transmission Break-in, New Linings....Fluid........Turn Signal Lights..... Fluid..........Battery Condition...... Bulbs, Halogen....... Light, Burned-out...... Brake Fluid......... Parking..........62 Clutch Fluid........ System Indicator......Drive Belts........Wear Indicators......Cables, Jump Starting With..Engine Coolant......
  • Page 217 Index ® Consumer Information*....DEXRON II Automatic Emergencies on the Road..... Battery, Jump Starting....Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid....Transmission (CVT)....Dimensions........Changing a Flat Tire....Controls, Instruments and....31 Dimming the Headlights ....Charging System Indicator ..Coolant Checking the Fuses....Dipstick Adding.........135 Automatic Transmission...
  • Page 218 Index Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat FM Stereo Radio Gauges Belts by......... Reception........76 Engine Coolant Temperature ..Exterior, Cleaning the....Folding Rear Seat......Fuel..........38 Foreign Countries, Driving in..Gearshift Lever Positions Four-way Flashers......Automatic Transmission...105 Front End, Towing by CVT..........
  • Page 219 Index High Altitude, Starting at....Instrument Panel Brightness..Parking.......... High-Low Beam Switch ....Interior Cleaning......Turn Signal........High-mount Brake Light....Interior Light........Loading Cargo........Hood, Opening the ......Introduction......... i LOCK (Ignition Key Position)..Horn...........40 Locks Hot Coolant, Warning about..Anti-theft Steering Column..
  • Page 220 Index Malfunction Indicator Lamp. 35, Steering........Manual Transmission....102 Change, How to ......Windows........59 Manual Transmission Fluid ..Change, When to....... Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts..Maximum Shift Speeds..103, Checking Engine....... Proper Seat Belt Usage..... Meters, Gauges........ Pressure Indicator....35, Methanol in Gasoline......
  • Page 221 Index Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt..Speed Control........Tires..........Wearing the Lap Belt....Speedometer........Wiper Blades......Replacing Seat Belts After a Seats, Adjusting the......SRS Indicator......16, Crash..........Serial Number........ START (Ignition Key Position)..Service Intervals......Starting the Engine......Reserve Tank, Engine Coolant..Restraint, Child........
  • Page 222 Index Replacing........Turn Signals........Rotating........Tachometer........Snow..........Taillights, Changing Bulbs in..Specifications......Underside, Cleaning...... Taking Care of the Unexpected .. Technical Information....Unexpected, Taking Care Tape Player........Technical Information....Technical Descriptions of the........... Tools, Tire Changing....Anti-lock Brake System.... Uniform Tire Quality Grading..Torn Seat Belts ........
  • Page 223 Index Wipers, Windshield * : U.S. and Canada only Changing Blades......Operation........Warning Beepers Headlights on....... 41 Worn Tires........Key in Ignition......Wrecker, Emergency Towing..Seat Belts........WARNING, Explanation of....Warning Labels, Location of..Warranty Coverages* ....Washer, Windshield Checking the Fluid Level..Operation........

  • Page 224: Gas Station Information

    Gas Station Information Gasoline: Tire Pressure (measured cold): Automatic Transmission Fluid: UNLEADED gasoline Honda Premium Formula Auto- (DX) Pump octane number of 86 or matic Transmission Fluid or an Front/Rear: ® higher equivalent DEXRON II type Auto- 220 kPa (2.2 k g f / c m...

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