Honda 1996 Prelude Owner's Manual
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Honda 1996 Prelude Owner's Manual

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1996 Prelude Online Reference Owner's Manual
Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference.
For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.
Owner's Identification Form
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.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................
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......................................................................................................................................................
A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
Contents
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Summary of Contents for Honda 1996 Prelude

  • Page 1: Table Of Contents

    1996 Prelude Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com. Contents Owner's Identification Form Introduction ............................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 you don't follow instruc- These mean: tions.

  • Page 4: Driver And Passenger Safety

    Driver and Passenger Safety This section gives you important Your Occupant Protection System.. Door Locks........information about occupant protec- The Seat Belt System Storing Cargo Safely....tion. It shows how to use seat belts and How It Works...... 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, to make sure you and your passen-...

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

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

  • Page 7: Seat Belt System Components

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

  • Page 8: Wearing Seat Belts Properly

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works 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 practical while still allowing you to time to read the following pages and maintain full control of the vehicle.
  • Page 9 The Seat Belt System and How It Works To unlatch the seat belt, push the 2. Check that the belt is not twisted. 4. Pull up on the shoulder part of the red PRESS button on the buckle. belt to remove any slack. Make 3.

  • Page 10: Advice For Pregnant Women

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works Advice for Pregnant Women When using the seat belt, remember Seat Belt Maintenance to keep the lap portion as low as For safety, you should check the possible (see page 7). condition of your seat belts regularly. Each time you have a check-up, ask Pull out each belt fully and look for your doctor if it's okay for you to...

  • Page 11: Supplemental Restraint System

    Supplemental Restraint System Your car is equipped with a Supple- SRS Components What Happens In a Crash 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 12: Important Facts About Airbags

    Supplemental Restraint System After the crash, you may see what Just from viewing the vehicle Frontal collision range looks like smoke. This is actually damage after a crash, it is very powder from the airbag's surface. difficult to accurately determine if the airbags should or should not People with respiratory problems have inflated.

  • Page 13: 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 14: How The Passenger's Airbag Works

    Supplemental Restraint System This airbag is quite large and inflates The driver's airbag is stored in the How the Passenger's Airbag center of the steering wheel. For with considerable force. It can Works your safety, do not attach any items seriously hurt a front seat passenger to the steering wheel.

  • Page 15: System Service

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

  • Page 16: 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 if your car must be scrapped. restraint system. Modifications could make the system ineffective.

  • Page 17: Additional Safety Information

    Additional Safety Information The seat belts and airbags are obvi- Seat-back Position Door Locks ously important parts of your occu- It is not safe to leave your car doors The seat-backs should be in an pant protection system. unlocked. A passenger, especially a upright position for you and your child, could open a door and acci- passengers to get the most protec-...

  • Page 18: Storing Cargo Safely

    Additional Safety Information Storing Cargo Safely Driving with Pets A small dog, cat, or other small animal will be safest in a pet carrier Before you drive, make sure you Loose pets can be a hazard while you with rigid sides. Choose a style that first securely store or tie down any are driving.

  • Page 19: Child Safety

    Child Safety We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag An infant or child who is not inflates, it can hit the infant seat with properly restrained can be killed great force.

  • Page 20: Important Safety Reminders

    Child Safety Important Safety Reminders General Guidelines for To properly route a seat belt through Never hold a baby or child on your Restraining Children Under a child seat, follow the seat maker's lap when riding in a car. If you are 18 kg (40 Ibs) instructions.
  • Page 21 Child Safety We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

  • Page 22: Restraining A Child Who Weighs Over 18 Kg (40 Ibs)

    Child Safety Several styles of booster seats are Restraining a Child Who Weighs Put the seat belt on your child and check its fit. The shoulder belt available. We recommend a design Over 18 kg (40 Ibs) should fit over the collarbone and that allows the child to use the car's across the chest.

  • Page 23: Securing A Child Seat With A Lap/Shoulder Belt

    230 mm (9.1 in) according to the seat manufac- steps. turer's instructions. Your Honda has two attachment To unlatch the seat belt, push the points for tether-style child seats. 2. Insert the latch plate into the red PRESS button on the buckle.

  • Page 24: Storing A Child Seat

    Honda dealer. If you need an anchor plate and mounting hardware, you can obtain them by writing to: American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Consumer Affairs The anchor plate and mounting 1919 Torrance Blvd. hardware for a top tether are Torrance, CA 90501-2746 supplied with the car.

  • Page 25: 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- stop drinking and give yourself lots drink and drive. This can be done if tions change rapidly.

  • Page 26: Carbon Monoxide Hazard

    Carbon Monoxide Hazard Your car's exhaust contains carbon If you must sit in your parked car, High levels of carbon monoxide can monoxide gas. You should have no collect rapidly in enclosed areas, even in an unconfined area, with the problem with carbon monoxide such as a garage.

  • Page 27: 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 28: Instruments And Controls

    Seat Adjustments......the controls and displays that Indicator Lights........ Rear Seat Access......contribute to the daily operation of Gauges..........Additional Driver's Seat your Honda. All the essential Speedometer........ Adjustments......controls are within easy reach. Tachometer........Seat Heaters........Odometer........Folding Rear Seat......

  • Page 29: Control Locations

    Control Locations DOOR LOCK DIGITAL CLOCK HEATING/ POWER WINDOW SWITCH SWITCHES COOLING (P.62) (P.49) (P.57) CONTROL (P.70) AUDIO SYSTEM (P.78) FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE (P.96) TRUNK RELEASE HOOD RELEASE MIRROR HANDLE HANDLE CONTROLS (P.50) (P.97) (P.60) Instruments and Controls...

  • Page 30: Indicator Lights

    Indicator Lights The instrument panel has many indicators to give you important SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT HIGH BEAM INDICATOR information about your car. SYSTEM INDICATOR Lamp Check Many of the indicator lights come on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II), allowing you to see that they are working.
  • Page 31 Indicator Lights * The U.S. instrument panel is CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP shown. Differences for the Canadian model are noted in the text. LOW FUEL INDICATOR BRAKE LAMP INDICATOR ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR* PARKING BRAKE TRUNK-OPEN INDICATOR AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR* SEAT BELT DOOR-OPEN INDICATOR...
  • Page 32 Indicator Lights Seat Belt Reminder Light Parking Brake Charging System U.S. Canada and Brake Indicator BRAKE This indicator lights when you turn System If this light comes on when the the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder Indicator engine is running, the battery is not to you and your passengers to being charged.
  • Page 33 Indicator Lights Supplemental Restraint Anti-lock Brake Malfunction Indicator U.S. Canada System Indicator System (ABS) Lamp See page 14. Indicator See page 197. Only on cars equipped with ABS (see page 113) This light normally comes on when you turn the ignition ON (II) and goes off after the engine starts.
  • Page 34 Indicator Lights Brake Lamp Turn Signal and High Beam Indicator BRAKE LAMP Indicator Hazard Warning Indicators This light normally comes on for a This light comes on with the high few seconds when you turn the The left or right turn signal light beam headlights.
  • Page 35 Indicator Lights Low Fuel Indicator "Daytime Running Trunk-open Indicator D R L Lights" Indicator This light comes on as a reminder This light comes on if the trunk lid is Canadian models only that you must refuel soon. not closed tightly. This indicator lights when you turn the ignition to ON (II) with the Cruise Control Indicator...
  • Page 36 Gauges ODOMETER TRIP METER TRIP METER RESET BUTTON TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER (Except S) RESET/CHANGE KNOB TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER ODOMETER/TRIP METER Instruments and Controls...
  • Page 37 Gauges Speedometer Tachometer Odometer The tachometer shows the engine The odometer shows the total dis- U.S. Models This shows your speed in miles per speed in revolutions per minute tance your car has been driven. It hour (mph). The smaller inner (rpm).
  • Page 38 Gauges Trip Meter (S model) CHANGE/RESET KNOB This meter shows the number of To reset it, push the trip meter reset miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada) button. driven since you last reset it. (Except S model) Your meter can show traveling distances of two separate trips.
  • Page 39 Gauges Temperature Gauge FUEL GAUGE TEMPERATURE The temperature gauge is fully GAUGE electronic. It uses a series of illuminated indicator bars to show the engine coolant's temperature range. Under normal driving conditions, you will see the bars illuminate to the display's midpoint. In more severe driving conditions, such as very hot weather or climbing a long hill, the engine may get hot...

  • Page 40: Controls Near The Steering Wheel

    Controls Near the Steering Wheel The two levers on the steering SUNROOF INSTRUMENT PANEL WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS column contain controls for driving BRIGHTNESS features you use most often. The left lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams. The right lever controls the windshield wipers.
  • Page 41 Controls Near the Steering Wheel Headlights If you leave the lights on with the To flash the high beams, pull back ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) and hold the turn signal lever. or LOCK (0), you will hear a Release the lever and the high reminder chime when you open the beams will go off.
  • Page 42 Controls Near the Steering Wheel the dial up as far as it will go to To signal a lane change, push lightly Instrument Panel Brightness return the fuel and temperature on the turn signal lever in the proper gauges to their daytime brightness. direction and hold it.
  • Page 43 Controls Near the Steering Wheel Windshield Wipers Windshield Washers The right lever controls the wind- To clean the windshield, pull back on To operate the wipers in mist mode, shield wipers and washers. The push the control lever down. The the wiper control lever.

  • Page 44: 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 45: Steering Wheel Controls

    Steering Wheel Controls Cruise Control Using the Cruise Control NOTICE Cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) The cruise control, as it operates, without keeping your foot on the moves the accelerator pedal. You can accelerator pedal.
  • Page 46 Steering Wheel Controls You can decrease the set cruising Changing the Set Speed You can increase the set cruising speed in either of two ways: speed in either of two ways: Press and hold the SET/decel Press and hold the accel/ button.
  • Page 47 Steering Wheel Controls Even with the cruise control turned When you tap the brake or clutch button. on, you can still use the accelerator pedal, or press the SET and RE- pedal to speed up for passing. After SUME buttons at the same time, the Pressing the Cruise Control Master completing the pass, take your foot CRUISE CONTROL light on the...
  • Page 48 When replacing keys, use only parking facility. (See Trunk, page 50.) Honda-approved key blanks. Your car comes with two kinds of keys: a master key and a valet key. The master key fits all the locks on...

  • Page 49: Keys And Locks

    Keys and Locks Ignition Switch LOCK (0) — You can insert or ACCESSORY (I) — In this position, remove the key only in this position. you can operate the audio system When you turn the key from LOCK and cigarette lighter. to ACCESSORY, you may have to turn the steering wheel to release ON (II) —...
  • Page 50 Keys and Locks Door Locks The doors can also be locked and Power Door Locks unlocked from the outside with the key. Each door has a lock tab next to the Available on U.S. Si, and VTEC models, inside door handle. Push the tab in to and Canadian SR and SR-V models Each door has a master door lock lock the door and pull it out to unlock.
  • Page 51 Keys and Locks Both doors lock when you push in Trunk the lock tab on the driver's door, or lock the driver's door from the MASTER KEY outside with the key. Only the driver's door unlocks when you use the key or lock tab.
  • Page 52 Keys and Locks, Seat Adjustments Seat Adjustments Adjust the seat before you start driving. MASTER KEY To adjust the seat forward and To protect items in the trunk when backward, pull up on the lever under you need to give the key to someone the seat cushion's front edge.

  • Page 53: Seat Adjustments

    Seat Adjustments Rear Seat Access Reclining the seat-back can decrease the protection you get from your seat belt in a crash. You can slide under the seat belt and be seriously injured. Adjust the seat-back to an upright position and sit well back in the seat.
  • Page 54 Seat Adjustments Additional Driver's Seat Lumbar Support Fine Adjustment of Seat-back Angle Adjustments The driver's seat in the Si and VTEC models in the U.S., and the SR and SR-V models in Canada has additional features. They are: lumbar support adjustment, fine adjustment of seat-back angle, and seat-back angle memory.
  • Page 55 Seat Adjustments, Seat Heaters Seat Heaters Do not use the seat heaters when the Seat-back Angle Memory engine is off or when idling for a INDICATORS long period of time. They can drain the battery, making your car hard to start.

  • Page 56: Folding Rear Seat

    Folding Rear Seat Make sure all items in the trunk, or MASTER KEY RELEASE LOOP items extending through the opening into the back seat, are tied down. Loose items can fly forward and cause injury if you have to brake hard.
  • Page 57 Hazard Warning, Rear Window Defogger Hazard Warning Rear Window Defogger Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive. The defogger wires on the inside of the rear window can be accidentally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side to side.

  • Page 58: Power Windows

    Power Windows Your car's windows are electrically- The master control panel also con- powered. Turn the ignition switch to tains these extra features: ON (II) to raise or lower any window. AUTO — To open the driver's Each door has a switch that controls window fully, push the window its window.
  • Page 59 Power Windows, Sunroof The MAIN switch controls power to The power window system has a key- Sunroof the passenger's window. With this off delay function. The windows will switch off, the passenger's window still operate for up to ten minutes cannot be raised or lowered.
  • Page 60 Sunroof, Mirrors The sunroof has a key-off delay. You Mirrors can still open and close the sunroof for up to ten minutes after you turn Closing the sunroof on off the ignition. The key-off delay someone's hands or fingers can cancels as soon as you open either cause serious injury.
  • Page 61 Mirrors Adjusting the Power Mirrors 4. When you finish, move the selector switch to the center (off) SELECTOR SWITCH position. This turns off the adjustment switch so you can't move a mirror out of position by accidentally bumping the switch. Adjust the outside mirrors with the 3.
  • Page 62 Mirrors, Parking Brake Parking Brake NOTICE PARKING BRAKE LEVER Driving the car with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles. Available on all Canadian models To apply the parking brake, pull the The outside mirrors are heated to lever up fully.
  • Page 63 Glove Box, Digital Clock Glove Box Digital Clock KNOB Open An open glove box can cause KNOB serious injury to your passenger in a crash, even if the passenger is wearing the seat belt. Always keep the glove box closed while driving. GLOVE BOX Open the glove box by turning the The digital clock displays the time...
  • Page 64 Digital Clock, Cigarette Lighter The ignition switch must be in 3. Turn the knob toward M Cigarette Lighter ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for the (clockwise) and hold it until the numbers advance to the desired cigarette lighter to work. To heat up time.
  • Page 65 Ashtrays NOTICE ASHTRAY Use the ashtray only for cigarettes, cigars and other smoking materials. To prevent a possible fire and damage to your car, don't put paper or other things that can burn in the ashtray. ASHTRAY Open the front ashtray by swinging The rear ashtray is at the rear end of the lid down.

  • Page 66: 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 passenger. Spilled liquids can also damage the upholstery, carpeting, and electrical components in the interior. To open the beverage holder, push Use the beverage holder only when on the lid.
  • Page 67 Console Compartment, Interior Lights Console Compartment Ceiling Lights LEVER DOOR ACTIVATED DOOR ACTIVATED CONSOLE COMPARTMENT To open the console compartment, On S and Si models in the U.S., and S On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR-V press the lever and lift the lid. and SR models in Canada models in Canada The ceiling light has a three-position...

  • Page 68: Interior Lights

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

  • Page 69: 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 70 (Canadian S model only) 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 AIR CONDITIONING TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL BUTTON CONTROL LEVER...

  • Page 71: Heating And Cooling

    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 72 Heating and Cooling Vent Controls How to Use the System This section covers how to set up the CENTER VENT SIDE VENT system controls for ventilation, heating, cooling, dehumidifying, and defrosting. The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to generate hot and cold air.
  • Page 73 Heating and Cooling MODE BUTTONS RECIRCULATION It is best to leave the system in Fresh 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 74 Heating and Cooling To Cool with A/C 1. Turn on the A/C by pressing the button. The light in the button MODE BUTTONS RECIRCULATION BUTTON should come on. 2. Make sure the temperature control lever is all the way to the left.
  • Page 75 Heating and Cooling If the interior is very warm from Air conditioning places an extra load To Heat and Dehumidify with Air being parked in the sun, you can cool on the engine. Watch the engine Conditioning it down more rapidly by setting up coolant temperature gauge (see page Air conditioning, as it cools, removes 33) when driving in stop-and-go...
  • Page 76 Heating and Cooling To Defog and Defrost To remove fog from the inside of the windows: MODE BUTTONS RECIRCULATION BUTTON 1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select Fresh Air mode and 4. Adjust the temperature control lever so the air flow from the defroster vents feels warm.
  • Page 77 Heating and Cooling To remove exterior frost or ice from These settings direct all the air flow To Turn Everything Off the windshield and side windows to the defroster vents at the base of To shut off the system temporarily, after the car has been sitting out in the windshield and the side window slide the fan speed and temperature...

  • Page 78: Audio System

    System frequency. The frequency numbers The ignition switch must be in AC- Your Honda's audio system provides CESSORY (I) or ON (II). Turn the will start to change rapidly. Release clear reception on both AM and FM...
  • Page 79 Audio System ON/OFF/VOL KNOB To store a frequency: CASSETTE SLOT 1. Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each Preset button. 2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function to tune the radio to a desired station.
  • Page 80 Audio System (Except S) AUTO SELECT LIGHT Except S model AUTO SELECT — If you are traveling far from home and can no longer receive the stations you preset, you can use the Auto Select feature to find stations in the local area.
  • Page 81 Audio System Adjusting the Sound Balance/Fader — These two controls adjust the strength of the sound coming from each speaker. The Balance control adjusts the side- to-side strength, while the Fader control adjusts the front-to-back strength. To use these controls, push on the TREBLE BASS FADER...
  • Page 82 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 83 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 84 Audio System Operating the Cassette Player When the system reaches the end of reaches the end of the tape while in Turn the audio system ON. Make the tape, it will automatically reverse fast forward or rewind, it auto- sure the tape opening on the cassette direction and play the other side.
  • Page 85 Audio System REPEAT — The Repeat function ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE TAPE DIRECTION SLOT INDICATOR continuously replays the current song or passage. Press the REPEAT button to activate it; you will see RPT displayed as a reminder. When the system reaches the end of the song or passage currently playing, it will automatically go into rewind.
  • Page 86 Audio System Caring for the Cassette Player damaged cassette in the player. CLEAN INDICATOR The cassette player picks up dirt and oxides from the tape. This contami- The player automatically ejects nation builds up over time and cassettes that do not play properly. If causes the sound quality to degrade.
  • Page 87 Audio System ON/OFF/VOL KNOB Operating the Optional CD RPT INDICATOR 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 and cassette player.
  • Page 88 Audio System Press the CD button until "CD" If you push and hold the TUNE/ is loaded and played randomly. This appears in the display. The system SEEK switch, you will hear a beep continues until you deactivate Random Play by pressing will start to play the first track of the and the system will continue to move A.
  • Page 89 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 90 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 91: Theft Protection

    Owner's Manual. If you should happen to lose the card, you must obtain the code number from your Honda dealer. To do this, you will need the system's serial number. Comfort and Convenience Features...

  • Page 92: 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 Service Station Procedures .... know how to properly stow luggage Filling the Fuel Tank....
  • Page 93 Break-in Period, Gasoline Break-in Period (All other models) Gasoline Help assure your car's future Your Honda is designed to operate Use a premium unleaded gasoline reliability and performance by paying most effectively on unleaded with a pump octane number of 91 or extra attention to how you drive gasoline.

  • Page 94: Before Driving

    METHANOL (methyl or wood If you are planning to take your to confirm the fuel's contents. Some alcohol) Honda outside the U.S. or Canada, states/provinces require this contact the tourist bureaus in the You may use gasoline containing up information to be posted on the...
  • Page 95 Service Station Procedures Filling the Fuel Tank 3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as Gasoline is highly flammable pressure inside the tank escapes. Pull Place the fuel fill cap on the inside and explosive. You can be of the door as shown.
  • Page 96 Service Station Procedures Opening the Hood LATCH HOOD RELEASE HANDLE CLIP SUPPORT ROD 1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set 2. Standing in front of the car, put 3. Pull the support rod out of its clip the parking brake. Pull the hood your fingers under the front edge and insert the end into the hole on release handle, located under the...
  • Page 97 Service Station Procedures Oil Check DIPSTICK 3. Insert it all the way back in its tube. Check the engine oil level every time 2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean 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 98 Service Station Procedures Refer to Periodic Checks on page Engine Coolant Check for information on checking other items in your Honda. M I N UPPER MARK LOWER MARK RESERVE TANK 4. Remove it again and check the Look at the coolant level in the level.

  • Page 99: 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 100 Accessories Your Honda dealer has many acces- Some non-Honda accessories you Electronic communications equip- sories available to personalize your can buy in the "aftermarket" are ment, such as cellular telephones car. Some of these are audio systems, designed for universal applications.

  • Page 101: Loading Cargo

    The maximum load you can carry in To figure out how much cargo you Where you store this cargo, and how your Honda is 325 kg (700 Ibs). It well you secure it, are just as can carry: includes the total weight of all important as how much it weighs.

  • Page 102: Driving

    Driving Preparing to Drive......This section gives you tips on 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 infor- 5-speed Manual Transmission..

  • Page 103: Preparing To Drive

    Preparing to Drive 10. Turn the ignition ON (II). Check You should do the following checks 5. Check the adjustment of the seat (see page 51). the indicator lights in the instru- and adjustments every day before ment panel. you drive your car. 6.

  • Page 104: Driving

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

  • Page 105: 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 slippery surfaces. If you crash, You can get extra braking from the you can be injured.
  • Page 106 5-speed Manual Transmission Recommended Shift Points Maximum Speeds (U.S.: Si, Canada: SR) Drive in the highest gear that lets The speeds in this table are the the engine run and accelerate maximums for the given gears. If smoothly. This will give you the best you exceed these speeds, the engine fuel economy and effective emis- speed will enter into the tachometer's...

  • Page 107: 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 108 Automatic Transmission Reverse (R) — To shift to Reverse from Park, see the explanation under Park. To shift to Reverse from Neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift. Press the release button before shifting into Reverse from Neutral. Neutral (N) —...
  • Page 109 Automatic Transmission going down steep hills. Use second Maximum Speeds Drive (D ) —This position is similar gear when starting out on a slippery to D , except only the first three The speeds in this table are the gears are selected. Use D when surface or in deep snow.
  • Page 110 Park to If you need to use the Shift Lock Neutral. Release, it could mean your car is developing a problem. Have the car checked by your Honda dealer. Driving...

  • Page 111: The Braking System

    The Braking System Your Honda is equipped with disc Check your brakes after driving Brake System Design brakes at all four wheels. The through deep water. Apply the The hydraulic system that operates braking system is power-assisted to brakes moderately to see if they feel the brakes has two separate circuits.
  • Page 112 The Braking System If this happens, you will immediately Anti-lock Brakes The ABS is always "On". It requires notice that the brake pedal goes All models except the S model have no special effort or driving technique. down much farther and you need to an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as You will feel a pulsation in the brake press on it much harder.
  • Page 113 The Braking System, Driving in Bad Weather Driving in Bad Weather A car with ABS may require a longer ABS INDICATOR* distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces than an equivalent car with- out Anti-lock. The ABS cannot make up for road conditions or bad judg- ment.

  • Page 114: Driving In Bad Weather

    Driving in Bad Weather Driving Technique — Always drive Traction — Check your tires Visibility — Being able to see slower than you would in dry clearly in all directions and being frequently for wear and proper weather. It takes your car longer to pressure.
  • Page 115 Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer Towing a Trailer The total weight of the trailer and Your Honda is designed primarily to everything loaded in it must not carry passengers and their cargo. exceed 450 kg (1,000 Ibs). You can use it to tow a trailer if you carefully observe some general rules.

  • Page 116: Towing A Trailer

    Towing a Trailer The combined weight of the car, Trailer Hitches all passengers and their luggage, Your Honda dealer, or the Honda and tongue load must not exceed Improperly loading your car and Customer Relations Zone Office, can the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.
  • Page 117 Towing a Trailer Mirrors Before Starting Out Connecting the Trailer Many states and provinces have laws Most trailers that have a gross As you are preparing to tow your requiring special outside mirrors weight of 450 kg (1,000 Ibs) do not trailer, do the following: when you are towing a trailer.
  • Page 118 Towing a Trailer Towing Safety The car/trailer combination is more This extra load is magnified when affected by crosswinds and buffeting. you are driving in hilly terrain. Your car will not stop as quickly with When being passed by a large Watch the temperature gauge a trailer in tow.
  • Page 119 Towing a Trailer When parking your car and trailer, especially on a hill, be sure to follow all the normal precautions. Turn your front wheels into the curb, set the parking brake firmly, and put the transmission in 1st or Reverse (manual) or Park (automatic).

  • Page 120: Maintenance

    If you have the skills and tools Cooling System......Inflation........required to perform more complex Checking the Engine Coolant Inspection........maintenance tasks on your Honda, Level........138 Maintenance....... you may want to purchase the Adding Engine Coolant..... Tire Rotation......Service Manual. See page Replacing Engine Coolant..

  • Page 121: Maintenance Safety

    However, we cannot warn you your safety and the safety of your items not detailed in this section of every conceivable hazard that can should be performed by a Honda arise in performing maintenance. passengers. It will also reward you with more economical, trouble-free...
  • Page 122 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 123: 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 attention.
  • Page 124 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. maintenance on the items marked have maintenance done.
  • Page 125 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 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 126 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°F (32°C)] conditions.

  • Page 127: 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 128 Non-Scheduled Maintenance Record Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non-scheduled maintenance on this page (see page 127). Maintenance...

  • Page 129: Periodic Checks

    Periodic Checks You should check the following Automatic transmission — Check Air conditioning — Check its items at the specified intervals. If the fluid level monthly. See page operation weekly. See page 156. you are unsure of how to perform 143.

  • Page 130: Fluid Locations

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

  • Page 131: Engine Oil

    Engine Oil Checking Engine Oil Adding Oil DIPSTICK ENGINE OIL FILL CAP UPPER MARK LOWER MARK 3. Pull it out again and look at the oil To add oil, unscrew and remove the Check the engine oil a couple of engine oil fill cap on top of the valve level at the end of the dipstick.
  • Page 132 API Service label on the oil SF is not recommended. container. 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 133 It only increases the cost and year-round protection in your of operating your car. Honda. You may use a 5W-30 oil if An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 is the climate in your area is within the preferred for improved fuel economy...
  • Page 134 Engine Oil Oil and Filter Changes Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from Always change the oil and filter underneath the car. The car should according to the time and distance recommendations in the mainte- be raised on a service station-type hydraulic lift for this service.
  • Page 135 A special (U.S.: Si, Canada: SR) wrench (available from your 4.3 l (4.5 US qt, 3.8 Imp qt) Honda dealer) is required to (U.S.: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) remove the filter. 4.8 l (5.1 US qt,4.2,lmp qt) Maintenance...
  • Page 136 Engine Oil 9. Turn off the engine, let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level. If necessary, add oil to bring the level to the upper mark on the dipstick. NOTICE If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly.

  • Page 137: Cooling System

    Cooling System Checking the Engine Coolant Always use Genuine Honda Anti- Adding Engine Coolant freeze/Coolant. The cooling system Level If the reserve tank is completely contains many aluminum compo- empty, you should also check the nents that can corrode if an improper coolant level in the radiator.
  • Page 138 Cooling System 3. Remove the radiator cap by RADIATOR CAP pushing down and turning counterclockwise. 4. The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low. 5. Put the radiator cap back on. Tighten it fully.
  • Page 139 Cooling System Do not add any rust inhibitors or DRAIN PLUG other additives to your car's cooling system. They may not be compatible DRAIN with the coolant or engine compo- BOLT nents. Replacing Engine Coolant The cooling system should be completely drained and refilled with new coolant according to the time and distance recommendations in...
  • Page 140 Cooling System With automatic transmission: FILLER NECK RESERVE TANK (U.S.: S, Canada: S) 3.4 l (0.90 US gal, 0.75 Imp gal) (U.S.: Si, Canada: SR) 3.7 l (0.98 US gal, 0.81 Imp gal) 7. Pour coolant into the radiator up to the base of the filler neck.
  • Page 141 Cooling System, Windshield Washers Windshield Washers BLEEDER BOLT FLOAT RESERVE TANK 10. Turn off the engine. Check the 8. Loosen the bleeder bolt on top of level in the radiator, add coolant if Check the level in the windshield the engine. Tighten it again when needed.
  • Page 142 Windshield Washers, Transmission Fluid The windshield washer reservoir is Transmission Fluid NOTICE located behind the left headlight. Automatic Transmission Check the reservoir's fluid level by Do not use engine antifreeze or a DIPSTICK removing the cap and looking at the vinegar/water solution in the wind- float.

  • Page 143: Transmission Fluid

    If it is marks. not, add genuine Honda Manual Transmission Fluid until it starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt and tighten it securely.
  • Page 144 Transmission Fluid, Brake and Clutch Fluid If Honda MTF is not available, you Brake and Clutch Fluid Brake System may use an API service SG or SH- Check the fluid level in the reser- rated motor oil with a viscosity of voirs monthly.

  • Page 145: Brake And Clutch Fluid

    If the fluid level is half an inch or to the MAX mark, use Genuine more above the MAX mark, it may Honda Brake Fluid or an equivalent indicate a problem in the ABS. Have from a sealed container that is your dealer inspect the system as marked DOT3 or DOT4 only.
  • Page 146 Clutch System NOTICE Using automatic transmission fluid or another brand of power steering fluid will damage the system. Use only GENUINE HONDA Power Steering Fluid-V. A low power steering fluid level can UPPER indicate a leak in the system. Check...

  • Page 147: Air Cleaner

    If you do not have access to compressed air (such as a service station), ask your Honda dealer to do AIR CLEANER ELEMENT this service. The air cleaner element is inside the 3.
  • Page 148 Fuel Filter, Spark Plugs Fuel Filter Spark Plugs Replacement The fuel filter should be replaced (Except U.S.: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) SPARK PLUG CAP The spark plugs in your car need to every 4 years or 96,000 km (60,000 be replaced every 2 years or 48,000 miles), whichever comes first.

  • Page 149: Spark Plugs

    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.
  • Page 150 Spark Plugs, Battery Specifications: (U.S.: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) Battery NGK: PZFR6F-11 Check the condition of your car's (U.S.: S, Canada: S) Nippondenso: PKJ20CR-L11 battery monthly. You should check NGK: ZFR5F-11 for proper electrolyte level and Nippondenso: KJ16CR-L11 Spark Plug Gap: corrosion on the terminals.
  • Page 151 Battery Emergency Procedures Eyes — Flush with water from a cup or other container for at least fifteen minutes. (Water under pressure can damage the eye.) Immediately call a physician or 911. Skin — Remove contaminated clothing. Flush the skin with large quantities of water.
  • Page 152 Battery If the terminals are severely cor- Except S model roded, clean them with baking soda If your car's battery is disconnected and water. Then use a wrench to The battery gives off explosive or goes dead, the audio system will loosen and remove the cables from hydrogen gas during normal disable itself.

  • Page 153: 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 154 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 155: Air Conditioning

    Air Conditioning Periodically check the engine's Optional for Canadian S model If the air conditioning does not get as Your car's air conditioning is a sealed radiator and air conditioning cold as before, have your dealer system. Any major maintenance, condenser for leaves, insects, and check the system.
  • Page 156 Drive Belts, Tires The belts should have the following Drive Belts Tires "play" or deflection. To safely operate your car, your tires POWER STEERING BELT Alternator belt: must be the proper type and size, in (With air conditioning) good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated.
  • Page 157 Tires before checking the tire pressure, Inflation the tires can still be considered Keeping the tires properly inflated 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 (Except S)
  • Page 158 Tires You should look for: You should get your own tire Your car's tires have wear indicators pressure gauge and use it whenever molded into the tread. When the you check your tire pressures. This Bumps or bulges in the tread or tread wears down to that point, you will make it easier for you to tell if a will see a 12.7 mm (1/2 inch) wide...
  • Page 159 (Except S) steering accuracy. Improper wheel weights can damage your car 's aluminum wheels. Use only genuine Honda wheel weights for balancing. Maintenance...
  • Page 160 "All Season" on the sidewall have an that came on your car. Replacement car can affect handling and all-weather tread design. They wheels are available at your Honda should be suitable for most winter stability. This can cause a crash dealer.
  • Page 161 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 162 Lights Check the operation of your car's Replacing a Headlight Bulb exterior lights at least once a month. Your car has two bulbs on each side, A burned out bulb can create an four in total. Make sure you are unsafe condition by reducing your replacing the bulb that is burned out.
  • Page 163 Lights 3. Turn the lock ring counterclock- Replacing a Parking Light Bulb wise (about one-quarter turn) to unlock the headlight bulb. SCREW 4. Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its recess. 5. Install the new bulb with the electrical connector pointing down.
  • Page 164 Lights 4. Pull the bulb straight out of its Replacing a Front Side Marker socket. Light Bulb Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms. BULB 5. Insert the socket back into the lens. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
  • Page 165 Lights 5. Push the bulb holder into the side Replacing a Front Turn Signal marker assembly and turn it clock- Light Bulb wise until it locks. TURN SIGNAL ASSEMBLY 6. Test the side marker to make sure the new bulb is working. 7.
  • Page 166 Lights 5. Push the bulb holder into the turn Replacing a High-mount Brake signal assembly and turn it Light Bulb clockwise until it locks. (U.S.: S, Si, Canada: S, SR) 6. Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working. 7.
  • Page 167 Lights Replacing Rear Bulbs 4. Install the new bulb in the socket. Test it to make sure it works. COVER 5. Reinstall the bulb holder assembly. Install the two screws and tighten them securely. 1. Open the trunk and the taillight 3.
  • Page 168 Lights Replacing a Rear Side Marker 5. Insert the socket in the assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place. Light Bulb 6. Reinstall the side marker assem- bly in the fender. Tighten the mounting screw securely. SCREW 1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 3.
  • Page 169 Lights Replacing a Rear License Bulb 4. Turn on the parking lights and Replacing a Ceiling Light Bulb check that the new bulb is 1. Remove the lens by carefully working. prying on the edge of the lens in the middle with a fingernail file or a small flat-tip screwdriver.
  • Page 170 Lights On S and Si models in the U.S., and S On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR-V Replacing a Spotlight Bulb and SR models in Canada models in Canada On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR-V models in Canada The spotlight bulbs are in the ceiling light housing.
  • Page 171 Lights Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb SPOTLIGHT BULB 2. Remove the two screws and 4. Pull the bulb straight out of the remove the ceiling light assembly. holder. Push the new bulb straight 1. Remove the lens by carefully prying on the edge of the lens with into the holder until it bottoms.

  • Page 172: Storing Your Car

    If you store your car for 12 months Change the engine oil and filter Support the front wiper blade or longer, have your Honda dealer (see page 135). arms with a folded towel or rag so perform the inspections called for in the 24 months/48,000 km (30,000 they do not touch the windshield.
  • Page 173 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 174: Exterior Care

    Exterior Care Washing Wash the car, using the water and Power Antenna Cleaning Frequent washing helps preserve detergent solution and a soft- Twice a year, clean the antenna mast your car's beauty. Dirt and grit can bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth. with a dry cloth and mild detergent.

  • Page 175: Appearance Care

    You in large patches. It should form into solution, and rinse them thoroughly. should use a polish on your Honda if beads or droplets after waxing. the finish does not have its original The wheels have a protective clear- shine after using a wax.
  • Page 176 Exterior Care, Interior Care Fabric Paint Touch-up Carpeting Vacuum the carpeting frequently to Vacuum dirt and dust out of the Your dealer has touch-up paint to remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make match your car's color. The color material frequently. For general the carpet wear out faster.

  • Page 177: Interior Care

    Interior Care Vinyl Leather Seat Belts Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum On VTEC model in the U.S.. and SR-V cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft model in Canada cloth dampened in a solution of mild Vacuum dirt and dust from the soap and water.
  • Page 178 Many corrosion-preventive measures builds up on the inside of the interior trim and fabric to crack or are built into your Honda. You can windows. Use a soft cloth or paper discolor. help keep your car from corroding...
  • Page 179 Body Repairs insurance company, tell them you holes in the bottom of the doors Body repairs can affect your car's want genuine Honda parts used in and body. resistance to corrosion. If your car the repair. Although most insurers needs repairs after a collision, pay...

  • Page 180: 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 181: Compact Spare Tire

    Compact Spare Tire Your car has a compact spare tire Follow these precautions whenever INDICATOR that takes up less space. Use this you are using the compact spare tire: LOCATION spare tire as a temporary replace- MARK ment only. Get your regular tire Do not exceed 50 rnph (80 km/h) repaired or replaced and put back on under any circumstances.
  • Page 182 Changing a Flat Tire 5. Unscrew the wing bolt and take If you have a flat tire while driving, TRUNK FLOOR JACK the spare tire out of the trunk. stop in a safe place to change it. Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder of a busy road is dangerous.
  • Page 183 Changing a Flat Tire HANDLE COVER JACK 6. The jack is behind a cover in the 8. Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2 7. Turn the jack's end bracket right fender. Remove the cover by counterclockwise to loosen it, then turn with the wheel wrench.

  • Page 184: Taking Care Of The Unexpected

    Changing a Flat Tire JACKING WHEEL EXTENSION POINT WRENCH 9. Locate the jacking point nearest 10. Use the extension and wheel 11. Remove the wheel nuts and flat the tire you need to change. It is wrench as shown to raise the car tire.
  • Page 185 Changing a Flat Tire BRAKE HUB 12. Before mounting the spare tire, 13. Put on the spare tire. Put the 14. Lower the car to the ground and wipe any dirt off the mounting wheel nuts back on finger-tight, remove the jack. surface of the wheel and hub with then tighten them in a crisscross a cloth.
  • Page 186 Changing a Flat Tire 19. Store the jack in its holder with WING BOLT the end bracket facing to the rear. SPACER Turn the jack's end bracket to lock CONE it in place. Replace the cover. Store the tool kit. 20.
  • Page 187 If Your Engine Won't Start Diagnosing why your engine won't Turn the ignition switch to START Nothing Happens or the Starter start falls into two areas, depending (III). If the headlights do not dim, Motor Operates Very Slowly on what you hear when you turn the check the condition of the fuses.
  • Page 188 Check all the fuses sories: heater, A/C, stereo system, (see page 199). lights, etc. You cannot start a Honda with an Put the transmission in Neutral or If you find nothing wrong, you will automatic transmission by pushing Park and set the parking brake.

  • Page 189: Jump Starting

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

  • Page 190: If Your Engine Overheats

    If Your Engine Overheats Your car's temperature gauge should Your car can overheat for several 2. If you see steam and/or spray register in the midrange under most reasons, such as lack of coolant or a coming from under the hood, turn conditions.
  • Page 191 If Your Engine Overheats 6. Look for any obvious coolant leaks, 10. Start the engine and set the such as a split radiator hose. temperature control lever to Everything is still extremely hot, Removing the radiator cap maximum. Add coolant to the so use caution.
  • Page 192 Low Oil Pressure 4. Start the engine and watch the oil NOTICE pressure light. If 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 193 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 drive several miles before the defogger, cruise control, etc. Try not to use other electrically-operated battery is too discharged to keep the engine running.

  • Page 194: 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 195: Closing The Sunroof

    Closing the Sunroof If the electric motor will not close SOCKET the sunroof, do the following: 1. Check the fuse for the sunroof motor (see page 200). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating. 2.
  • Page 196 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 fuse boxes. KNOB The under-hood fuse box is located The interior fuse box is underneath the dashboard on the driver's side.
  • Page 197 Fuses Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your car FUSE PULLER stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages and 203, or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that component.
  • Page 198 Fuses If you cannot drive the car without NOTICE fixing the problem, and you do not BLOWN have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the Replacing a fuse with one that has a same rating or a lower rating from higher rating greatly increases the one of the other circuits.
  • Page 199 Fuses INTERIOR FUSE BOX : On Canadian cars Taking Care of the Unexpected...
  • Page 200 Fuses UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX Taking Care of the Unexpected...
  • Page 201 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 202: 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- System........Tire Information......

  • Page 203: 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 204 Identification Numbers AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER The Engine Number is stamped into MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER the engine block. The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission. ENGINE NUMBER Technical Information...

  • Page 205: Specifications

    Specifications 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.6 l (0.16 US gal, 0.13 Imp gal) page 2 : U.S. S, Canada: S 3 : U.S. Si, Canada: SR 1 : U.S.:S, Canada: S 4 : U.S.
  • Page 206 Specifications page page 1 : Except high-mount brake light installed in rear spoiler. 2 : U.S.: VTEC, Canada: SR-V 1 : S 2 : Except S Technical Information...
  • Page 207 Anti-lock Brake System The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Each wheel has a wheel speed the solenoid. This builds hydraulic is standard equipment on all models sensor assembly. As the wheel pressure on the modulator valve. except the S model. rotates, the sensor sends electrical The pressure increases in the pulses to the ABS control unit.

  • Page 208: Tire Information

    Tire Information Tire Size Designation H — Speed Rating Symbol. See the Tire Speed Ratings The chart below shows many of the A tire's sidewall is marked with a tire speed rating chart in this section for different speed ratings currently size designation.
  • Page 209 The treadwear grade is a compara- High Speed Driving normal driving speeds. You should tive rating based on the wear rate of Honda strongly recommends that wait until the tires are cold before the tire when tested under controlled you not drive faster than posted...
  • Page 210 Tire Information Warning: The temperature grade for Traction Temperature this tire is established for a tire that The traction grades, from highest to The temperature grades are A (the lowest, are A, B, and C, and they highest), B, and C, representing the is properly inflated and not over- tire's resistance to the generation of represent the tire's ability to stop on...

  • Page 211: Emission Controls

    126. the engine and burned. form photochemical "smog." Carbon monoxide does not contribute to Evaporative Emission Control * In Canada, Honda vehicles comply smog creation, but it is a poisonous System with the Canadian Motor Vehicle gas. As gasoline evaporates in the fuel...
  • Page 212 System engine's combustion and minimize genuine Honda replacement parts or The Exhaust Gas Recirculation the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that their equivalent for repairs. Using (EGR) system takes some of the comes out the tailpipe.

  • Page 213: Three Way Catalytic Converter

    The catalytic converter is referred to running properly. as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Honda part or its equivalent. The three way catalytic converter THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER...
  • Page 214 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 215: Warranty Coverages

    Warranty Coverages U.S. Owners: Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat Replacement Battery Limited Your new Honda is covered by these belt that fails to function properly is Warranty — provides prorated warranties: covered for the useful life of the car.
  • Page 216 Customer Relations Information Honda dealership personnel are If you are dissatisfied with the When you call or write, please give trained professionals. They should decision made by the dealership's us this information: be able to answer all your questions. management, contact your Honda If you encounter a problem that your Customer Relations Zone Office.
  • Page 217 Includes: NYC Metro area and San Juan, PR 00919-0816 Fairfield County, CT area (787) 250-4318 The above addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot reach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information. Customer Relations...

  • Page 218: Canada Zone Office Map

    Canada Zone Office Map CUSTOMER RELATIONS RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENT Honda Canada Inc. 715 Milner Avenue Toronto, ON M1B 2KB Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9 Fax Toll-free 1-877-939-0909 Toronto (416) 299-3400 Honda Canada Inc. National Office Customer Relations...
  • Page 219 NHTSA, U.S. Department of Administration (NHTSA) in addition However, NHTSA cannot become Transportation, Washington, to notifying American Honda Motor involved in individual problems D.C. 20590. You can also obtain Co., Inc. between you, your dealer, or other information about motor American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

  • Page 220: Authorized Manuals (U.s. Only)

    Authorized Manuals Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should Purchasing Factory-Authorized Manuals contact their authorized Honda dealer. (U.S. only) The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be obtained from Helm Incorporated, either by filling out the attached form or. for credit card holders, calling toll-free phone number on the form.

  • Page 221: Authorized Manuals

    Authorized Manuals Service Manual: This manual covers maintenance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components. It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simple enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under- stand. Electrical Troubleshooting Manual: This manual complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your car.

  • Page 222: Index

    Index Shift Lock Release..... Airbag (SRS)........Air Cleaner........Accessories Air Conditioning....... Installation........Maintenance....... Battery ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Usage..........70 Charging System Light....Position)........Air Outlets (Vents)......Adding Jump Starting......Air Pressure, Tires......Automatic Transmission Maintenance....... Alcohol and Drugs......Fluid........Specifications......Alcohol in Gasoline......Brake Fluid.........
  • Page 223 Index Braking System......CAUTION, Explanation of....Cleaning Break-in, New Car......Certification Label......Aluminum Wheels..... Brightness Control, Instruments... Chains..........Antenna........Brights, Headlights......Change Oil Carpeting........How to......... Exterior........Bulb Replacement Back-up Lights......Fabric.......... When to........Brake Lights....... Changing a Flat Tire..... Interior........
  • Page 224 Index Emission Controls......Corrosion Protection..... Doors Engine Crankcase Emission Control Locking and Unlocking....Belts..........System......... Power Door Locks....... DOT Tire Quality Grading... Coolant Temperature Gauge ..Cruise Control Operation....Downshifting, 5-speed Manual Malfunction Indicator Customer Relations Office... Transmission......Lamp........ 32, Oil Pressure Indicator..
  • Page 225 Index Filters Gauge..........Fuel..........Octane Requirement....Oil..........Oxygenated........Halogen Headlight Bulbs....First Gear, Shifting......Tank, Filling the......Hazard Warning Flashers....5-speed Manual Transmission Fuses, Checking the...... Headlights Checking Fluid Level....Daytime Running Lights..... Shifting the......... High Beam Indicator....Flashers, Hazard Warning....High Beams, Turning on....
  • Page 226 Index Ignition Keys..........47 Switch..........Label, Certification......Maintenance........Periodic Items......Timing Control System..... Lane Change, Signaling....Record......... Indicator Lights, Instrument Lap/Shoulder Belts......Schedule......Panel..........29 Leaking of Exhaust into Car..Manual Transmission....Infant Restraint........ Lighter, Cigarette......Manual Transmission Fluid ..Inflation, Proper Tire ....Lights Maximum Shift Speeds..
  • Page 227 Index Parking Over Things that Burn... Engine Oil and Filter....PGM-FI System......Fuel Filter........Occupant Protection System.... Polishing and Waxing....Fuses........... Octane Requirement, Gasoline..Power Light Bulbs......... Odometer.......... Door Locks........Schedule........Odometer, Trip........ Mirrors.......... Spark Plugs......... Steering........Tires..........Change, How to......Windows........
  • Page 228 Index Seat Belts..........Snow Tires........Supplemental Restraint System Advice for Pregnant Women..Solvent-type Cleaners....Service Precautions..... Child Seat Anchor Plate....Sound System........Servicing........Cleaning........Spare Tire SRS Indicator......14, Frayed or Torn....... Inflating........184 Maintenance........Specifications......Reminder Light and Beeper..Spark Plugs, Replacing....Replacement........
  • Page 229 Index Trip Meter........Tires..........Trunk..........50 Air Pressure....... Checking Wear......Opening the........Warning Beepers Compact Spare......Open Monitor Light....Key in Ignition......DOT Tire Quality Grading..Turn Signals........Seat Belts........WARNING, Explanation of....Inflation........Inspection........Warning Labels, Location of..Replacing........Warranty Coverages*....Underside, Cleaning......
  • Page 230 Index Wipers, Windshield * U.S. and Canada only Changing Blades......Operation........Worn Tires........Wrecker, Emergency Towing..

  • Page 231: Gas Station Information

    Pump octane number of 91 or SAE 10W-30 viscosity higher Automatic Transmission Fluid: Fuel Tank Capacity: Honda Premium Formula Auto- 60 l (15.9 US g a l , 13.2 Imp gal) matic Transmission Fluid or an ® 5-speed Manual Transmission Oil:...

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