Honda 1996 Civic Sedan Online Reference Owner's Manual

Honda 1996 Civic Sedan Online Reference Owner's Manual

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Table of Contents

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1996 Civic Sedan 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 ..........................................................................................................................
ii
.......................................................................................................................3
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Controls...........................................................................................................................31
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Features.........................................................................................................67
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
...............................................................................................................................................89
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving.............................................................................................................................................................99
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance.................................................................................................................................................115
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Care.........................................................................................................................................169
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your car ever needs body repairs.
Unexpected...............................................................................................................175
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Information...............................................................................................................................197
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
......................................................................209
A summary of the warranties covering your new Honda, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S.
only)...............................................................................................................215
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index .................................................................................................................................................................
Information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

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Summary of Contents for Honda 1996 Civic Sedan

  • Page 1: Table Of Contents

    ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ..............209 A summary of the warranties covering your new Honda, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only).......................215 How to order manuals and other technical literature.
  • 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 Why Wear Seat Belts....Door Locks........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 Two indicator lights are also part of To get the maximum protection from belts and other features that work your occupant protection system, your safety system. One reminds you together to protect you and your...
  • 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 seat belts in all five UPPER an additional locking mechanism seating positions. The front seats SHOULDER...
  • Page 8: Lap Belt

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt Lap Belt Wearing Seat Belts Properly 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 BELT END BUCKLE time to read the following pages and...
  • 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 sure the belt goes over your 3.
  • Page 10 The Seat Belt System and How It Works front seats: RELEASE Adjust the belt anchor by squeezing BUTTON the two buttons and sliding the anchor downward (it has four posi- tions) . Rear seat: Move toward the center of the seat until the belt fits over your collar- bone.
  • Page 11: Wearing The Lap Belt

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works Wearing the Lap Belt To unlatch the belt, push the red 1. Pull the latch plate across your 2. Position the belt as low as possible across your hips and pelvic bones, PRESS button on the buckle.
  • Page 12: Advice For Pregnant Women

    The Seat Belt System and How It Works Advice for Pregnant Women If possible, use the lap/shoulder seat Seat Belt Maintenance belt, remembering to keep the lap For safety, you should check the condition of your seat belts regularK. portion as low as possible (see page 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 If you ever have a severe frontal Your supplemental restraint system help protect the head and chest of collision, the sensors will detect includes: 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 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 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 18: System Service Precautions

    Scrapping an entire car that has uninflated airbags can be dangerous. Do not modify your steering wheel Get assistance from a Honda dealer or any other part of the supplemental restraint system. Modifications could if your car must be scrapped.
  • 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 Door Locks Be sure to keep compartment doors The recommended way to restrain a 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 safer when they are properly properly restrained can be killed restrained in the rear seat rather or seriously injured in a crash.
  • Page 22: Important Safety Reminders

    Child Safety If a toddler seat is used in the front Important Safety Reminders If you are driving with small children passenger's seat, the vehicle seat Never hold a baby or child on your in the car, you should use the childproof door locks to prevent should be moved as far back as lap when riding in a car.
  • Page 23 Child Safety General Guidelines for To properly route a seat belt through Restraining an Infant Who Restraining Children Under a child seat, follow the seat maker's Weighs Less Than 9 kg 18kg(40lbs) instructions. If you use a lap/ (20 Ibs) shoulder belt, follow the instructions Use an approved child seat.
  • Page 24 Child Safety We recommend that, whenever Restraining a Child Who Weighs The preferred place to put a toddler 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 40 lbs) rear seat.
  • Page 25 Child Safety Securing a Child Seat with a Lap/ Restraining a Child Who Weighs Put the seat belt on your child and check its fit. The shoulder belt Shoulder Belt Over 18 kg (40 Ibs) should fit over the collarbone and The lap/shoulder belt retractors in across the chest.
  • Page 26 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 monoxide gas. You should have no pull exhaust gas into your car's problem with carbon monoxide interior and create a hazardous 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

    Ignition Switch......the controls and displays that Door Locks........Indicator Lights........ contribute to the daily operation of Gauges..........Power Door Locks....... your Honda. All the essential Speedometer........ Remote Transmitter....controls are within easy reach. Childproof Door Locks....Tachometer........Trunk ..........
  • Page 32: Control Locations

    Control Locations MIRROR HEATING/COOLING AUDIO SYSTEM, DIGITAL CLOCK CONTROL CONTROLS (P.76, 81) (P.68) (P.62) DOOR LOCK SWITCH (P.51) POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.59) FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE (P.92) TRUNK RELEASE HOOD RELEASE HANDLE HANDLE (P.55) (P.93) Instruments and Controls...
  • Page 33: Indicator Lights

    Indicator Lights The instrument panel has many indicators to give you important HIGH BEAM INDICATOR PARKING BRAKE AND 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 Supplemental Restraint Parking Brake Anti-lock Brake System Indicator and Brake System (ABS) See page 16. Indicator System Only on cars equipped with ABS (see Indicator Charging System This light has two functions: page 110) Indicator This light normally comes on for a If this light comes on when the 1.
  • Page 36 Indicator Lights Malfunction Indicator High Beam Indicator Trunk-open Indicator Lamp This light comes on if the trunk lid is See page 189. This light comes on with the high beam headlights. See page not closed tightly. Turn Signal and information on the headlight Low Fuel Indicator Hazard Warning controls.
  • 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 Maintenance Required Indicator When the distance driven since the 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 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 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 LX and EX models in the U.S., and EX 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...
  • 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 button. The car will decelerate. Press and hold the RESUME/ Release the button when you accel 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, you can still use the accelerator and press the RESUME/accel button Any of these actions cause the cruise 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 All doors lock when you push down the lock tab on the driver's door, 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 as you press either button. If it Remote Transmitter does not come on, replace the light switch is in the center battery. LOCK position) will come on when you 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 sound your car's horn to attract Open 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 LEVER your Honda dealer. Any other Test the transmitter by locking and transmitters you have will also need unlocking the doors several times.
  • 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 else, lock the trunk release handle Pull the trunk release handle to with the master key and give the...
  • 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 Head Restraints To remove a head restraint for The front head restraints help cleaning or repair, pull it up as far as protect you and your passenger from it will go. Push the release button whiplash and other injuries. They are and pull the restraint out of the seat- most effective when you adjust them back.
  • Page 58: Folding Rear Seat

    Folding Rear Seat The back of the rear seat folds down MASTER KEY to give you direct access to the trunk. Each side folds down sepa- rately. With only half the seat folded, you can still carry a passenger in the back seat.
  • Page 59 Folding Rear Seat, Power Windows Make sure all items in the trunk, or Power Windows DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH items extending through the opening On LX and EX models in the U.S., and into the back seat, are tied down. EX 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 the passengers' windows. With this tains these extra features: Closing a power window on a switch off, the passengers' windows child's hands or fingers can AUTO — To open the driver's cannot be raised or lowered.
  • Page 61 Moonroof, Mirrors Moonroof To close the moonroof, press and Mirrors 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. On some U.S. models Keep the inside and outside mirrors NOTICE Use the switches on the dashboard...
  • Page 62: Mirrors, Parking Brake

    Mirrors, Parking Brake Adjusting the Power Mirrors Parking Brake SELECTOR SWITCH ADJUSTMENT SWITCH PARKING BRAKE LEVER On LX and EX models in the U.S., and 3. Push the appropriate edge of the To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up EX model in Canada adjustment switch to move the slightly, push the button, and lower...
  • 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 Ashtrays NOTICE (Optional) Front and rear ashtrays are available Use the ashtray only for cigarettes, as options. The front ashtray fits in cigars and other smoking materials. To the beverage holder. prevent a possible fire and damage to The rear ashtray fits in the rear of your car, don 't put paper or other the center console.
  • Page 66: Interior Light

    Interior Light (U.S.: EX) (U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) DOOR ACTIVATED DOOR ACTIVATED The interior light has a three- On cars with remote transmitter The interior light (with the switch in position switch. In the OFF position, the center position) also comes on the light does not come on.
  • Page 67: Comfort And Convenience Features

    Comfort and Convenience Features Heating and Cooling......The heating and air conditioning* 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 FAN CONTROL quality standards and is designed to TEMPERATURE 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 CENTER VENT SIDE VENT system controls for ventilation, healing, cooling, dehumidifying, and defrosting. Open The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to generate hot and cold air.
  • Page 71 Heating and Cooling RECIRCULATION It is best to leave the system in Fresh MODE BUTTONS AIR CONDITIONING 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 RECIRCULATION MODE BUTTONS 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 warm the interior: To remove fog from the inside of the Conditioning Air conditioning, as it cools, removes windows: 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 cold weather: MODE BUTTONS RECIRCULATION BUTTON BUTTON 1. Start the engine. 2. Select The A / C switches on and Fresh Air mode is selected automatically when you select 3.
  • 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

    A M / F M Stereo Audio System Operating the Radio frequency. The frequency numbers will start to change rapidly. Release Your Honda's audio system provides The ignition switch must be in clear reception on both AM and FM ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II). Turn...
  • Page 77 Audio System To store a frequency: 1. Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store STEREO INDICATOR AM/FM BUTTON PWR/VOL KNOB 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 Reception Radio Frequencies 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 TIME DISPLAYED ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II). 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 EX 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 you hear a beep. You will see TMS displayed.
  • Page 84 30 hours of use. the cassette to jam in the player. indication stays on after the cassette ejects, take the car to your Honda Your dealer has a cleaning kit Never try to insert a warped or dealer.
  • Page 85 Audio System PWR/VOL KNOB Operating the Optional CD 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 To select a different disc than the REPEAT - When you activate the the disc from the player. one that is playing, press the Repeat feature by pressing the RPT appropriate preset button (1 — 6). button, the system continuously The system will load that disc and replays the current track.
  • 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 Gasoline Oxygenated Fuels Some conventional gasolines are Help assure your car's future Your Honda operates most effec- 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 Gasoline is highly flammable pressure inside the tank escapes. and explosive. You can be Pull burned or seriously injured 4.
  • 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 other items in your Honda. RESERVE TANK UPPER MARK LOWER MARK 4. Remove it again and check the Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank.
  • 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 You can improve fuel economy by warm engine. It is not necessary to important things that affect the fuel "warm-up"...
  • Page 97 Accessories Electronic communications equip- Your Honda dealer has many acces- Some non-Honda accessories you ment, such as cellular telephones sories available to personalize your 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: Preparing To Drive

    Preparing to Drive You should do the following checks 4. Check that any items you may be 9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that and adjustments every day before carrying with you inside are stored your passengers have fastened you drive your car. properly or fastened down their seat belts (see page securely.
  • Page 101: Starting The Engine

    Starting the Engine 1. Apply the parking brake. (8,000 feet) adds to the problem. 5. If the engine does not start within Use the following procedure: 15 seconds, or starts but stalls 2. In cold weather, turn off all right away, repeat 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 Maximum Speeds (U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) 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 D4, Ds, 2, N or R, press firmly on the starting the engine.
  • Page 106 Automatic Transmission If you have done all of the above and Drive (D3) —This position is similar Reverse (R) — To shift to Reverse still cannot move the lever out of from Park, see the explanation under to D4, except only the first three gears are selected.
  • Page 107 Automatic Transmission Second (2) — To shift to Second, Maximum Speeds (U.S.: EX) 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 1. Set the Parking brake. checked by your Honda dealer. 2. Remove the key from the ignition switch. SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT 3.
  • Page 109: 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 110 The Braking System Brake System Design If this happens, you will immediately Anti-lock Brakes notice that the brake pedal goes The Civic EX model in the U.S. has The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. down much farther and you need to an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as press on it much harder.
  • Page 111 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 112: Driving In Bad Weather

    Driving in Bad Weather Visibility — Being able to see Driving Technique — Always drive clearly in all directions and being slower than you would in dry weather. It takes your car longer to visible to other drivers are important react, even in conditions that may in all weather conditions.
  • Page 113 Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer Traction — Check your tires Towing a Trailer frequently for wear and proper Your car is not designed to tow a pressure. Both are important in trailer. Attempting to do so can void preventing "hydroplaning"...
  • Page 114 If you have the skills and tools for Normal Driving.... Cooling System......required to perform more complex Inspection........Checking the Engine Coolant maintenance tasks on your Honda, Level........Maintenance....... you may want to purchase the Adding Engine Coolant..... Tire Rotation......
  • Page 115: Maintenance Safety

    It will also reward you should be performed by a Honda arise in performing maintenance. with more economical, trouble-free technician or other qualified Only you can decide whether or not driving and help reduce air pollution.
  • Page 116 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 117: Maintenance Schedule

    Maintenance Schedule Which Schedule to Follow: The Maintenance Schedule specifies The services and time or distance 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 118 We recommend the use of Genuine According to state and federal Your authorized Honda dealer 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 119 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 120 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 121: 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 122 Non-Scheduled Maintenance Record Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non-scheduled maintenance on this page (see page 121). Maintenance...
  • Page 123: 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 124: Fluid Locations

    Fluid Locations BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap) (5-M/T only) CLUTCH FLUID (Gray cap) ENGINE OIL FILL CAP AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK POWER STEERING (Yellow loop) FLUID (Red cap) COOLANT WASHER FLUID RESERVOIR (Blue cap) ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop) Maintenance...
  • Page 125: 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 3. Pull it out again and look at the oil To add oil, unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on top of the valve minutes after shutting off the engine.
  • Page 126 API Service label on the oil container. classified SF is not recommended. A fuel-efficient oil is recommended for your Honda. This is shown on the API Service label by the words "Energy Conserving I I . " This oil is API CERTIFICATION MARK formulated to help your engine use less fuel.
  • Page 127 Honda. You may use a 10W-30 oil if the temperature in your area never goes below 20° F ( - 7 ° C ) . Maintenance...
  • Page 128 Remove the oil wrench (available from your drain bolt from the bottom of the 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 129 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 130: 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 131 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 down the base of the filler neck.
  • Page 132 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 DRAIN BOLT the maintenance schedule. Only use recommended antifreeze. Draining the coolant requires access to the underside of the car.
  • Page 133 Cooling System 5. When the coolant stops draining, RESERVE RESERVE FILLER NECK tighten the drain plug in the TANK TANK CAP bottom of the radiator. Apply non-hardening sealant to the drain bolt threads and reinstall the bolt in the engine block. Tighten it securely.
  • Page 134 Cooling System 8. Put the cap on the radiator, only 9. Turn off the engine. Check the RESERVE TANK tighten it to the first stop. Start the level in the radiator, add coolant if engine and let it run until it warms needed.
  • Page 135: Maintenance

    Windshield Washers Check the level in the windshield 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 136: Transmission Fluid

    Automatic Transmission 5. If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the filler hole DIPSTICK to bring it to the upper mark. Use Honda Premium Formula Auto- matic Transmission Fluid or an ® equivalent DEXRON II Auto- matic Transmission Fluid (ATF) only.
  • Page 137 Transmission Fluid, Brake and Clutch Fluid 5-speed Manual Transmission If Honda MTF is not available, you Brake and Clutch Fluid may use an API service SG or SH- Check the fluid level in the reser- FILLER BOLT rated motor oil with a viscosity of voirs monthly.
  • Page 138: Brake And Clutch Fluid

    Brake System If you add brake fluid to bring it up Clutch System to the MAX mark, use Genuine Honda Brake Fluid or an equivalent M A X M A X 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 139: Power Steering

    Turning the steering wheel to full left or right lock and holding it there can damage the power steering pump. LOWER 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 140: 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 and LX models in the U.S., and Clean the inside of the air cleaner all models in Canada housing with a damp rag.
  • Page 141 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 EX model in the U.S. The air cleaner element is inside the element.
  • Page 142: 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 143 Spark Plugs Specifications: NOTICE NGK: ZFR5F-11 Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A KJ16CR-L11 Nippondenso: spark plug that is too loose can overheat and damage the engine. Spark Plug Gap: Overtightening can cause damage to 1.1 mm (0.04 in) the threads in the cylinder head. -0.1mm 6.
  • Page 144 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 145 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 146 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 147: 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 148 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 149: Air Conditioning

    Air Conditioning If the air conditioning does not get as Periodically check the engine's Optional for U.S. DX, LA', and Canadian radiator and air conditioning cold as before, have your dealer LX, EX models condenser for leaves, insects, and check the system. Recharge the Your car's air conditioning is a sealed dirt stuck to the front surface.
  • Page 150 Drive Belts, Tires Drive Belts The belts should have the following Tires "play" or deflection. To safely operate your car, your tires POWER STEERING ALTERNATOR Alternator belt: must be the proper type and size, in BELT BELT 8.0-10.5 mm (0.31— 0.41 in) good condition with adequate tread, Power steering belt: and correctly inflated.
  • Page 151 Tires (U.S.: DX, Canada: LX) 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).
  • Page 152 Tires You should get your own tire You should look for: Your car's tires have wear indicators pressure gauge and use it whenever molded into the tread. When the you check your tire pressures. This Bumps or bulges in the tread or tread wears down to that point, you will make it easier for you to tell if a side of the tire.
  • Page 153 Tires The tires were properly balanced by Tire Rotation When shopping for replacement the factory. They may need to be tires, you may find that some tires rebalanced at some time before they Front are "directional." This means they Front are worn out.
  • Page 154 DOT Tire car can affect handling and that came on your car. Replacement wheels are available at your Honda Quality Grading. stability. This can cause a crash dealer. in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
  • Page 155 NOTICE Mount snow chains on your car If you mount snow tires on your 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 156 Lights Check the operation of your car's If you find any bulbs are burned out, Headlight Aiming 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 157 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 4. Check the horizontal angle gauge. underneath the longest scribe adjustment can be made using a The line on the adjustment screw...
  • Page 158 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 159 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 160 Lights Replacing the Front Side Marker/ 5. Remove the burned out bulb from 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 161 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 162 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. the pointed end until it pops back is burned out: stop/taillight/side almost flush with the fingers on marker or back-up light.
  • Page 163 Lights 5. Pull the bulb straight out of its 3. Reinstall the socket. Turn it Replacing a High-mount Brake clockwise until it locks. Make sure socket. Light Bulb Push the new bulb straight into the new bulb is working. the socket until it bottoms. 6.
  • Page 164 Lights Replacing a Rear License Bulb Replacing an Interior Light Bulb (U.S.: EX) 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. Remove the lens by carefully working.
  • Page 165 Lights 2. Remove the bulb by pulling it Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb straight out of its metal tabs. (U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) The trunk light is available on LX and EX models in the U.S., and all models INTERIOR LIGHT 3.
  • Page 166: Storing Your Car

    Disconnect the battery. Fill the fuel tank. If you store your car for 12 months or longer, have your Honda dealer Change the engine oil and filter Support the front wiper blade perform the inspections called for in (see page 128).
  • Page 167: 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 168: Exterior Care

    Exterior Care • When you have washed and rinsed Washing Rinse the car thoroughly with cool the whole exterior, dry it with a Frequent washing helps preserve water to remove loose dirt. chamois or soft towel. Letting it your car's beauty. Dirt and grit can air-dry will cause dulling and water scratch the paint, while tree sap and Fill a bucket with cool water.
  • Page 169 You your dealer so you are sure to get beads or droplets after waxing. should use a polish on your Honda if the correct color. the finish does not have its original shine after using a wax.
  • Page 170: Interior Care

    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 171 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 172 Body repairs can affect your car's and body. want genuine Honda parts used in resistance to corrosion. If your car the repair. Although most insurers needs repairs after a collision, pay...
  • Page 173: 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 174: Taking Care Of The Unexpected

    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 175: Changing A Flat Tire

    Changing a Flat Tire 3. Open the trunk. Raise the trunk If you have a flat tire while driving, TRUNK FLOOR SPARE TIRE 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 176 Changing a Flat Tire JACK JACKING POINT WHEEL WRENCH 6. Turn the jack's end bracket 7. Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2 . 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 177 Changing a Flat Tire BRAKE HUB WHEEL WRENCH EXTENSION 9. Use the extension and wheel On U.S. LX, EX and Canadian EX 11. Before mounting the spare tire, wrench as shown to raise the car wipe any dirt off the mounting models until the flat tire is off the ground.
  • Page 178 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 179 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 180: If Your Engine Won't Start

    If Your Engine Won't Start Diagnosing why your engine won't Nothing Happens or the Starter Turn the ignition switch to START (III). If the headlights do not dim, start falls into two areas, depending Motor Operates Very Slowly check the condition of the fuses. If on what you hear when you turn the When you turn the ignition switch to the fuses are OK, there is proba-...
  • Page 181 Check all the fuses sories: heater, A/C, stereo system, (see page 191). 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 182: 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 183: If Your Engine Overheats

    If Your Engine Overheats Your car can overheat for several 1. Safely pull to the side of the road. The pointer of your car's tempera- reasons, such as lack of coolant or a Put the transmission in neutral or ture gauge should stay in the mid- mechanical problem.
  • Page 184 If Your Engine Overheats 4. If the temperature gauge stays at 10. Start the engine and set the reaches the middle of the tempera- temperature control lever to the red mark, turn off the engine. ture gauge, or lower, before check- maximum.
  • Page 185 Low Oil Pressure , Start the engine and watch the oil NOTICE LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR 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 186 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 engine running.
  • Page 187: 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 188: 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 ). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating.
  • Page 189 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 190 Fuses Checking and Replacing Fuses ABS FUSE BOX 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 195, or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that component.
  • Page 191 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 192 Fuses INTERIOR FUSE BOX : On Canadian cars Taking Care of the Unexpected...
  • Page 193 Fuses UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX 1: U.S. model ABS FUSE BOX 2: Canadian model Taking Care of the Unexpected...
  • Page 194 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 195: Technical Information

    Emission Controls......The diagrams in this section give The Clean Air Act...... you the dimensions and capacities of Specifications......... your Honda, and the locations of the Anti-lock Brake System ....Crankcase Emission Control identification numbers. The expla- Tire Information......System........
  • Page 196: 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 197 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 198: Specifications

    Specifications Dimensions Capacities Weights Engine page 144. 1 : U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX 2 : U.S.: EX 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.4 (0.11 US gal ,0.09 Imp gal) 2 : U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX 3 : U.S.: EX 4: Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.
  • Page 199 Specifications See page or the fuse label attached to the inside of the fuse box door under the dashboard. See page or the fuse box cover. 1 : Without moonroof 2 : With moonroof 1 : U.S.: DX, Canada: LX 2 : U.S.: LX, EX, Canada: EX 3 : U.S.: DX, LX without ABS, Canada: LX without ABS 4 : Canada: EX without ABS...
  • Page 200 Anti-lock Brake System The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) brake line to that wheel. Each wheel has a wheel speed is standard equipment on the U.S. sensor assembly. As the wheel rotates, the sensor sends electrical The control unit also contains error EX model.
  • Page 201: Tire Information

    Tire Information Tire Size Designation 85 — Load Index, a numerical code Tire Speed Ratings associated with the maximum load A tire's sidewall is marked with a tire The chart below shows many of the size designation. You will need this the tire can carry.
  • Page 202 For High Speed Driving (U.S. Cars) service practices and differences in The tires on your car meet all U.S. Honda strongly recommends that you road characteristics and climate. Federal Safety Requirements. All not drive faster than posted speed tires are also graded for treadwear, limits and conditions allow.
  • Page 203 Tire Information Warning: The temperature grade for Temperature this tire is established for a tire that The temperature grades are A (the is properly inflated and not over- highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of loaded.
  • Page 204: Emission Controls

    NOx and HC react to 120. 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 205 HC, CO, and A / T only) uses various sensors to genuine Honda replacement parts or NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The determine how much air is going their equivalent for repairs.
  • Page 206: 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 207: 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 208: Warranty Coverages

    Replacement Battery Limited U.S. Owners Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat Warranty — provides prorated Your new Honda is covered by these belt that fails to function properly is warranties: covered for the useful life of the car. coverage for a replacement battery purchased from a Honda dealer.
  • Page 209 Customer Relations Information When you call or write, please give Honda dealership personnel are If you are dissatisfied with the us this information: trained professionals. They should 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 210: Index

    Index Automatic Transmission....Head Restraints......Capacity, Fluid......Mirrors.......... Accessories Seats..........Checking Fluid Level....Steering Wheel......Installation........Shifting........Air-bag (SRS)........Shift Lever Positions....ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Air Cleaner........Shift Lock Release..... Position)........Air Conditioning....... Accessory Socket......Maintenance....... Adding Usage..........Automatic Transmission Air Outlets (Vents)......
  • Page 211 Index Brakes Checking Specifications......Anti-lock System (ABS).... Automatic Transmission Trunk Light........ Break-in, New Linings....90 Fluid........Turn Signal Lights..... Fluid..........Battery Condition...... Bulbs, Halogen....... Light, Burned-out...... Brake Fluid......... Parking.......... Clutch Fluid........ System Indicator......Drive Belts........Wear Indicators......Cables, Jump Starting With..Engine Coolant......
  • Page 212 Index Cold Weather, Starting in..... DEXRON® II Automatic Emergencies on the Road..... Battery, Jump Starting....Compact Spare....... Transmission Fluid...... 1 37 Changing a Flat Tire....Consumer Information*....Dimensions....... Controls, Instruments and....Dimming the Headlights....Charging System Indicator..Coolant Dipstick Checking the Fuses....Adding........131 Automatic Transmission....
  • Page 213 Index Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat FM Stereo Radio Gauges Belts by.........11 Reception........Engine Coolant Temperature ..Exterior, Cleaning the....Folding Rear Seat......Fuel..........Foreign Countries, Driving in..Gearshift Lever Positions Four-way Flashers......Automatic Transmission... Front End, Towing by 5-speed Manual Fabric, Cleaning......
  • Page 214 Index High-Low Beam Switch ....Locks Anti-theft Steering Column..Hood, Opening the ......Horn...........40 Jacking up the Car......Fuel Fill Door....... Jack, Tire........Power Door........Hot Coolant, Warning about..Jump Starting......... Trunk..........Hydraulic Clutch......Hydroplaning........Low Coolant Level......Low Fuel Indicator ......Lower Gear, Downshifting to a..
  • Page 215 Index Meters, Gauges........ Selecting Proper Viscosity Chart........Methanol in Gasoline...... Mirrors, Adjusting......ON (Ignition Key Position).... Radiator Overheating....Moonroof.......... Opening the Hood......Radio/Cassette Sound System..Closing Manually....... Opening the Trunk......Rear End Towing......Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... Operation........Operation in Foreign Countries..Outside Mirrors.......
  • Page 216 Index Restraint, Child........ Service Manual*......Starting the Engine......Reverse Gear Position....Service Station Procedures.... In Cold Weather at High Rotation, Tire......... Setting the Clock......Altitude........Shifting With a Dead Battery....The Automatic Transmission.. Steam Coming from Engine..The 5-speed Manual Steering Wheel Safety Belts.........
  • Page 217 Index Technical Descriptions Technical Information....Unexpected, Taking Care Anti-lock Brake System.... of the........... Technical Information....Emission Control Systems..Tools,Tire Changing....Uniform Tire Quality Grading..Three Way Catalytic Torn Seat Belts........ Unleaded Gasoline......Converter........ Upholstery Cleaning...... Towing Tire Information......A Trailer........Used Oil, How to Dispose of..
  • Page 218 Index Washer, Windshield * : U.S. and Canada only Checking the Fluid Level..Operation........Washing.......... Waxing and Polishing....Wheels Adjusting the Steering....Alignment and Balance..... Compact Spare......Wrench........Windows Cleaning........Operating the Power....Rear, Defogger......Windshield Cleaning........Defroster........Wipers, Windshield Changing Blades......
  • Page 219: Gas Station Information

    Gas Station Information Tire Pressure (measured cold): Automatic Transmission Fluid: Gasoline: UNLEADED gasoline Honda Premium Formula Auto- (U.S.: DX, Canada: LX) matic Transmission Fluid or an Pump octane number of 86 or Front/Rear: higher 220 kPa (2.2 kgf/cm , 32 psi) equivalent DEXRON®...

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