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2004 Element Online Reference Owner's Manual

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

Contents

Owner's Identification Form


Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety................................................................................................................. ii
Important Handling Information..................................................................................................... iii
Your Vehicle at a Glance..................................................................................................................... 2
Driver and Passenger Safety .............................................................................................................. 5
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls................................................................................................................. 51
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features ................................................................................................ 89
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 109
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 121
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 147
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 179
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 201
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 213
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 217
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index......................................................................................................................................................I
Service Information Summary
A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
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Owner’s Identification

OWNER This Owner’s Manual should be


considered a permanent part of the
vehicle, and should remain with the
vehicle when it is sold.
ADDRESS
STREET This Owner’s Manual covers all
models of the Element. You may find
descriptions of equipment and
CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/ features that are not on your
POSTAL CODE particular model.
V. I. N.
The information and specifications
DELIVERY DATE included in this publication were in
(Date sold to original retail purchaser) effect at the time of approval for
printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
DEALER NAME DEALER NO. reserves the right, however, to
discontinue or change specifications
ADDRESS or design at any time without notice
STREET and without incurring any obligation
whatsoever.

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/


POSTAL CODE
OWNER’S SIGNATURE

DEALER’S SIGNATURE
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Introduction

Congratulations! Your selection of a 2004 Honda Element was a wise As you read this manual, you will
investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure. find information that is preceded by
a symbol. This
One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is to information is intended to help you
read this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls and avoid damage to your Honda, other
convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner’s manual in your vehicle so property, or the environment.
you can refer to it at any time.

Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty booklet
thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights
and responsibilities.

Maintaining your vehicle according to the schedules given in this manual


helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment.
When your vehicle needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda
dealer’s staff is specially trained in servicing the many systems unique to
your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be
pleased to answer any questions and concerns.

California Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING: This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of


California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

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A Few Words About Safety

Your safety, and the safety of others, You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms,
is very important. And operating this including:
vehicle safely is an important Safety Labels − on the vehicle.
responsibility. Safety Messages − preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of
three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
To help you make informed These signal words mean:
decisions about safety, we have
provided operating procedures and You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
other information on labels and in HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
this manual. This information alerts
you to potential hazards that could You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
hurt you or others. HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

Of course, it is not practical or You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow


possible to warn you about all the instructions.
hazards associated with operating or
maintaining your vehicle. You must Safety Headings − such as Important Safety Reminders or Important
use your own good judgement. Safety Precautions.
Safety Section − such as Driver and Passenger Safety.
Instructions − how to use this vehicle correctly and safely.

This entire book is filled with important safety information − please read it
carefully.

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Important Handling Information

Your Element has higher ground clearance than a passenger vehicle designed for use only on pavement. Higher
ground clearance has many advantages for off-highway driving. It allows you to travel over bumps, obstacles, and
rough terrain. It also provides good visibility so you can anticipate problems earlier.

These advantages come at some cost. Because your vehicle is taller and rides higher off the ground, it has a high
center of gravity. This means your vehicle can tip or roll over if you make abrupt turns. Utility vehicles have a
significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly
more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt. As a reminder, make sure you and your passengers always wear
seat belts.

For information on how to reduce the risk of rollover, read ‘‘Driving Guidelines’’ on page 122 of this manual and the
Off-Highway Guidelines section on page 143 . Failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or an
accident.

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Your Vehicle at a Glance

POWER DOOR MIRROR CONTROLS INSTRUMENT PANEL (P.53)


LOCK SWITCH (P.82) GAUGES (P.58)
(P.70)

HEATING/COOLING
CONTROLS
POWER WINDOW (P.90)
SWITCHES
(P.81)

PARKING BRAKE
(P.83)

HOOD RELEASE
HANDLE
(P.112)

A/T model is shown.

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Your Vehicle at a Glance

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS AUDIO SYSTEM


(P.62) (P.61) (P.94)
DIGITAL CLOCK
(P.105)

REAR WINDOW
DEFOGGER
(P.63)

SHIFT LEVER
(P.127)

HAZARD WARNING
HORN* BUTTON
CRUISE CONTROL (P.63)
MASTER SWITCH
(P.107)

STEERING WHEEL ADJUSTMENT


(P.64)
A/T model is shown.

* : To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.
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4
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Driver and Passenger Safety

This section gives you important 3. Adjust the Seat-Backs ............. 13 Airbag Service .............................. 27
information about how to protect 4. Adjust the Head Restraints .... 14 Additional Safety Precautions .... 28
yourself and your passengers. It 5. Fasten and Position the Protecting Children − General
shows you how to use seat belts Lap/Shoulder Seat Belts ... 14 Guidelines ................................. 29
properly. It explains how your 6. Adjust the Steering Wheel ..... 16 All Children Must Be
airbags work. And it tells you how to 7. Maintain a Proper Sitting Restrained ................................ 29
properly restrain infants and Position ................................. 16 All Children Should Sit in the
children in your vehicle. Advice for Pregnant Women...... 17 Back Seat .................................. 30
Additional Safety Precautions .... 18 The Passenger’s Front Airbag
Additional Information About Your Poses Serious Risks ................ 30
Seat Belts .................................. 19 If You Must Drive with Several
Seat Belt System Components ... 19 Children .................................... 32
Lap/Shoulder Belt ....................... 19 If a Child Requires Close
Automatic Seat Belt Attention ................................... 32
Tensioners ................................ 20 Additional Safety Precautions .... 32
Seat Belt Maintenance ................ 21 Protecting Infants and
Additional Information About Your Small Children.......................... 34
Airbags ...................................... 22 Protecting Infants ........................ 34
Airbag System Components ....... 22 Protecting Small Children .......... 36
Important Safety Precautions .......... 6 How Your Front Airbags Selecting a Child Seat ...................... 37
Your Vehicle’s Safety Features........ 7 Work.......................................... 22 Installing a Child Seat ..................... 38
Seat Belts ........................................ 8 How Your Side Airbags Work.... 25 Protecting Larger Children ............ 44
Airbags .......................................... 10 How the SRS Indicator Carbon Monoxide Hazard .............. 48
Protecting Adults and Teens.......... 11 Works ........................................ 26 Safety Labels .................................... 49
1. Close and Lock the Doors ...... 11 How the Side Airbag Off
2. Adjust the Front Seats ............ 11 Indicator Works ....................... 27

Driver and Passenger Safety 5


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Instruments and Controls

This section gives information about Control Locations ............................ 52 Driver’s Seat Height
the controls and displays that Instrument Panel ............................. 53 Adjustment ............................... 74
contribute to the daily operation of Gauges .............................................. 58 Front Seat Armrests .................... 74
your Honda. All the essential Trip Meter .................................... 58 Head Restraints ........................... 75
controls are within easy reach. Odometer ...................................... 58 Rear Seat Access ......................... 75
Fuel Gauge ................................... 58 Reclining the Front Seats ........... 76
Temperature Gauge .................... 59 Folding the Rear Seats ................ 77
Controls Near the Steering Removing the Rear Seats ........... 79
Wheel ........................................ 60 Power Windows ............................... 81
Wipers and Washers ....................... 61 Mirrors .............................................. 82
Turn Signal and Headlights............ 62 Adjusting the Power Mirrors ..... 82
Instrument Panel Brightness ......... 63 Rear Windows .................................. 83
Hazard Warning Button .................. 63 Parking Brake .................................. 83
Rear Window Defogger .................. 63 Skylight ............................................. 83
Steering Wheel Adjustment ........... 64 Interior Convenience Items ............ 86
Keys and Locks ................................ 65 Beverage Holders ........................ 87
Immobilizer System......................... 66 Accessory Power Sockets........... 87
Remote Transmitter ........................ 67 Glove Box ..................................... 87
Ignition Switch ................................. 69 Interior Lights .................................. 88
Door Locks ....................................... 70 Ceiling Light ................................. 88
Power Door Locks ....................... 70 Cargo Area Light ......................... 88
Rear Doors ................................... 70 Spotlights ...................................... 88
Hatch ............................................. 71 Ignition Switch Light ................... 88
Tailgate ......................................... 72
Seats .................................................. 73
Seat Adjustments ......................... 73

Instruments and Controls 51


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Comfort and Convenience Features

The heating and air conditioning Vents, Heating, and A/C ................ 90
systems in your Honda provide a Air Flow Buttons .......................... 91
comfortable driving environment in Playing the Radio ............................. 94
all weather conditions. Radio Reception ............................... 97
Playing a CD ..................................... 99
The standard audio system has Protecting Your CDs ..................... 101
many features. This section de- CD Player Error Messages .......... 102
scribes those features and how to CD Changer Error Messages ...... 103
use them. (If you selected an Radio Theft Protection.................. 104
optional audio system, refer to the Setting the Clock ........................... 105
operating instructions that came Auxiliary Input Jack ....................... 106
with it.) Cruise Control ................................ 107

Your Honda has an anti-theft audio


system that requires a code number
to enable it.

Comfort and Convenience Features 89


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Before Driving

Before you begin driving your Honda, Break-in Period .............................. 110
you should know what gasoline to Gasoline Type ................................ 110
use, and how to check the levels of Service Station Procedure ............ 111
important fluids. You also need to Fuel Economy ................................ 114
know how to properly store luggage Accessories..................................... 115
or packages. The information in this Modifications.................................. 116
section will help you. If you plan to Carrying Cargo .............................. 117
add any accessories to your vehicle, Seat-Back Bungee.......................... 119
please read the information in this
section first.

Before Driving 109


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Driving

This section gives you tips on Driving Guidelines ......................... 122


starting the engine under various Preparing to Drive ......................... 123
conditions, and how to operate the Starting the Engine........................ 124
5-speed manual and automatic 5-speed Manual Transmission ..... 125
transmissions. It also includes Automatic Transmission............... 127
important information on parking Parking Tips ................................... 131
your vehicle, the braking system, Braking System.............................. 132
and facts you need if you are plan- Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) ................ 133
ning to tow a trailer or drive off- Towing a Trailer ............................ 135
highway. Trailer Driving Tips....................... 139
Towing Your Vehicle Behind a
Motorhome................................. 141
Off-Highway Driving
Guidelines ................................... 143

Driving 121
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Maintenance

This section explains the importance Maintenance Safety ....................... 148


of keeping your vehicle well Maintenance Schedule .................. 149
maintained and why you should Maintenance Record ..................... 154
follow basic maintenance safety Fluid Locations............................... 156
precautions. Adding Engine Oil ......................... 157
Changing the Oil and Filter .......... 158
This section also includes Engine Coolant ............................... 160
Maintenance Schedules for normal Windshield Washers ..................... 161
driving and severe driving conditions, Transmission Fluid ........................ 162
a Maintenance Record, and instruc- Brake and Clutch Fluid ................. 164
tions for simple maintenance tasks Power Steering Fluid ..................... 165
you may want to take care of Cleaning the Body Panels ............. 165
yourself. Lights .............................................. 166
Seat Belts ........................................ 170
If you have the skills and tools to per- Dust and Pollen Filter ................... 170
form more complex maintenance Wiper Blades .................................. 171
tasks on your Honda, you may want Tires ................................................ 172
to purchase the Service Manual. See Checking the Battery .................... 177
page 217 for information on how to Vehicle Storage .............................. 178
obtain a copy, or see your Honda
dealer.

Maintenance 147
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Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more Compact Spare Tire....................... 180


common problems that motorists Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 181
experience with their vehicles. It If the Engine Won’t Start .............. 186
gives you information about how to Jump Starting ................................. 188
safely evaluate the problem and what If the Engine Overheats ............... 190
to do to correct it. If the problem has Low Oil Pressure Indicator .......... 192
stranded you on the side of the road, Charging System Indicator........... 192
you may be able to get going again. Malfunction Indicator Lamp ........ 193
If not, you will also find instructions Brake System Indicator ................ 194
on getting your vehicle towed. Emergency Towing ....................... 195
Fuses ............................................... 196
Fuse Locations ............................... 199

Taking Care of the Unexpected 179


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Technical Information

The diagrams in this section give Identification Numbers ................. 202 Emissions Controls........................ 209
you the dimensions and capacities of Specifications ................................. 204 The Clean Air Act ...................... 209
your Honda, and the locations of the DOT Tire Quality Grading Crankcase Emissions Control
identification numbers. It also (U.S. Vehicles) ....................... 206 System..................................... 209
includes information you should Uniform Tire Quality Evaporative Emissions Control
know about your vehicle’s tires and Grading ................................... 206 System..................................... 209
emissions control systems. Treadwear .................................. 206 Onboard Refueling Vapor
Traction....................................... 206 Recovery ................................. 209
Temperature .............................. 207 Exhaust Emissions Controls .... 210
Tire Information ............................ 208 PGM-FI System ..................... 210
Ignition Timing Control
System................................. 210
Three Way Catalytic
Converter ............................ 210
Replacement Parts..................... 210
Three Way Catalytic Converter ... 211
State Emissions Testing ............... 212

Technical Information 201


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Warranty and Customer Relations

Customer Service
Information ................................. 214
Warranty Coverages ..................... 215
Reporting Safety Defects
(U.S. Vehicles) ........................... 216
Authorized Manuals ...................... 217

Warranty and Customer Relations 213


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Authorized Manuals

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should
contact their authorized Honda dealer.
The publications shown below can be purchased from Helm
Incorporated. You can order in any of three ways: ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-782-4356
Detach and mail the order form on the right half of this page (NOTE: For Credit Card Holder Orders Only)
Call Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356 (credit card orders only) Monday-Friday 8:00 A.M. − 6:00 P.M. EST
Go online at www. helminc. com MINIMUM CREDIT CARD PURCHASE $10.00
If you are interested in other years or models, contact Helm Inc. OR
at 1-800-782-4356. By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can
pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to
Publication Form Description Price Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.
Form Number Each*
61SCV02 2003-04 Honda Element $70.00 VEHICLE MODEL Price Total
PUBLICATION NUMBER Qty
Service Manual 2 Name Year Each* Price

61SCV02EL 2003-04 Honda Element $50.00 0
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual 4
61SCV30 2003-04 Honda Element $44.00
Body Repair Manual


31SCV610 2004 Honda Element $34.00 N
Owner’s Manual

31SCVQ10 2004 Element $10.00 Prices are subject to change without TOTAL MATERIAL

Quick Start Guide notice and without incurring obligation.


Mich. Purchases
HON-R Order Form for Previous Years- FREE Add 6% Sales Tax

Indicate Year and Model Desired Orders are mailed within 10 days. Please HANDLING CHARGE $6.95

Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring allow adequate time for delivery.
GRAND TOTAL
obligation.
CONTINUED
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Authorized Manuals

NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, Service Manual:
and also the name of the person to whose attention the shipment should
be sent. For purchases outside U.S.A. please write to the address shown This manual covers maintenance and recommended
below for a quotation. procedures for repair to engine and chassis components.
S It is written for the journeyman mechanic, but is simple
H enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under-
I stand.
Customer Name Attention

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:
T Street Address − No P.O. Box Number Apartment Number
This manual complements the Service Manual by
O providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each
City State & Zip Code electrical circuit in your vehicle.
Daytime Telephone Number ( )
Body Repair Manual:
This manual describes the procedures involved in the
Check or money order enclosed payable to Helm Inc − U.S. funds only. replacement of damaged body parts.
P Do not send cash

A Master VISA Check here if your billing address is different


Y Card from the shipping address shown above.

M Account Number Expiration: Mo. Yr.

E −


CUSTOMER SIGNATURE DATE

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

P.O. BOX 07280·DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207·1-800-782-4356

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Index

A Automatic Transmission............... 127 Fluid ............................................ 164


Capacity, Fluid ........................... 204 Parking .......................................... 83
Accessories and Modifications .... 115 Checking Fluid Level ................ 162 System Indicator .................. 54, 194
Accessories................................. 115 Shifting ........................................ 127 Wear Indicators ......................... 133
Modifications ............................. 116 Shift Lever Position Indicator .. 127 Braking System.............................. 132
ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Shift Lever Positions ................. 127 Break-in, New Vehicle .................. 110
Position) ........................................ 69 Shift Lock Release ..................... 130 Brightness Control, Instruments ... 63
Accessory Power Sockets ............... 87 Auxiliary Input Jack ....................... 106 Brights, Headlights ......................... 62
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 157 Bulb Replacement
Airbag (SRS) .............................. 10, 22 B Back-up Lights ........................... 169
Air Conditioning System ................. 91 Brake Lights............................... 169
Usage............................................. 91 Battery Front Parking Lights ................. 167
Air Outlets (Vents) .......................... 92 Charging System Front Side Marker Lights......... 168
Air Pressure, Tires ........................ 172 Indicator............................ 54, 192 Headlights .................................. 166
Normal Driving .......................... 173 Jump Starting ............................. 188 Specifications ............................. 205
Antifreeze ....................................... 160 Maintenance ............................... 177 Turn Signal Lights ..................... 167
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Specifications ............................. 205 Bulbs, Halogen ............................... 166
Indicator ................................ 55, 134 Before Driving ............................... 109
Operation .................................... 133 Belts, Seat ..................................... 8, 19 C
Anti-theft, Audio System............... 104 Beverage Holders ............................ 87
Anti-theft Steering Column Lock .. 69 Body Panels .................................... 165 Capacities Chart............................. 204
Armrests, Front Seat ....................... 74 Booster Seats................................ 45 Carbon Monoxide Hazard .............. 48
Audio System ................................... 94 Brakes Cargo ............................................... 117
Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners .... 20 Anti-lock System (ABS) ............ 133 Cargo, how to carry ......................... 117
Automatic Speed Control.............. 107 Break-in, New Linings .............. 110
Bulb Replacement ..................... 166 CONTINUED

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Index

CAUTION, Explanation of ............... ii Where Should Child Sit? ............. 30 Daytime Running Lights
CD Care .......................................... 101 Cleaning the Body Panels ............. 165 Indicator ........................................ 56
CD Changer.................................... 100 Clock ............................................... 105 Dead Battery .................................. 188
CD Error Message ........................ 102 Clock, Setting the .......................... 105 Defects, Reporting Safety............. 216
CD Changer Error Message ........ 103 Clutch Fluid .................................... 164 Defog and Defrost ........................... 91
CD Player........................................ 100 CO in the Exhaust ......................... 211 Defogger, Rear Window ................. 63
Ceiling Pocket .................................. 86 Cold Weather, Starting in ............. 124 Defrosting the Windows ................. 93
Certification Label ......................... 202 Compact Spare ............................... 180 Dimensions ..................................... 204
Chains, tires .................................... 176 Consumer Information*................ 214 Dimming the Headlights ................ 62
Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 181 Controls, Instruments and .............. 51 Dipstick
Changing Oil .................................. 158 Coolant Automatic Transmission........... 162
How to ......................................... 158 Adding ......................................... 160 Engine Oil ................................... 113
When to....................................... 149 Checking ..................................... 113 Directional Signals ........................... 62
Charging System Indicator .... 54, 192 Proper Solution .......................... 160 Disc Brake Wear Indicators ......... 133
Checklist, Before Driving ............. 123 Temperature Gauge .................... 59 Disposal of Used Oil ...................... 159
Child Safety ...................................... 29 Crankcase Emissions Control Doors
Child Seats .................................... 37 System......................................... 209 Locking and Unlocking ............... 70
Important Safety Reminder ........ 29 Cruise Control Indicator ................. 56 Power Door Locks ....................... 70
Infants ........................................... 34 Cruise Control Operation ............. 107 DOT Tire Quality Grading ........... 206
Large Children ............................. 44 Customer Service Office .............. 214 Downshifting, 5-speed Manual
LATCH.......................................... 37 Transmission .............................. 125
Lower Anchors ............................ 39 D Driving ............................................ 121
Risks with Airbags....................... 30 Economy ..................................... 114
Small Children.............................. 36 DANGER, Explanation of ................. ii Driving Guidelines ......................... 122
Tethers.......................................... 39 Dashboard .................................... 2, 52 Dust and Pollen Filter ................... 170
Tether Anchorage Points ........... 43

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Index

E Overheating................................ 190 Clutch .......................................... 164


Specifications ............................. 204 Manual Transmission ............... 163
Economy, Fuel ............................... 114 Starting........................................ 124 Power Steering........................... 165
Emergencies................................... 179 Ethanol in Gasoline ....................... 110 Windshield Washer ................... 161
Jump Starting ............................. 188 Evaporative Emissions Controls .. 209 FM Stereo Radio
Brake System Indicator ............ 194 Exhaust Fumes ................................ 48 Reception ...................................... 97
Changing a Flat Tire ................. 181 Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat Folding Rear Seat ............................ 77
Charging System Indicator ...... 192 Belts by ......................................... 17 Four-way Flashers ........................... 63
Checking the Fuses................... 196 Front Seat
Hazard Warning Flashers .......... 63 F Adjusting ....................................... 11
Low Oil Pressure Indicator ...... 192 Airbags .......................................... 22
Malfunction Indicator Lamp .... 193 Fan, Interior...................................... 90 Fuel .................................................. 110
Overheated Engine ................... 190 Features, Comfort and Fill Door and Cap....................... 111
Towing ........................................ 195 Convenience ................................. 89 Gauge ............................................ 58
Emergency Brake ............................ 83 Filling the Fuel Tank ..................... 111 Octane Requirement ................. 110
Emergency Flashers ....................... 63 Filters Reserve Indicator......................... 56
Emissions Controls........................ 209 Dust and Pollen .......................... 170 Tank, Filling the......................... 111
Emissions Testing, State .............. 212 Oil ................................................ 158 Fuses, Checking the ...................... 196
Engine 5-speed Manual Transmission
Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 59 Checking Fluid Level ................ 163 G
Engine Speed Limiter ....... 126, 129 Shifting the ................................. 125
If it won’t start .............................. 186 Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 63 Gas Mileage, Improving................ 114
Malfunction Indicator Flat Tire, Changing a .................... 181 Gasohol ........................................... 110
Lamp ................................. 54, 193 Fluids
Oil Pressure Indicator ......... 54, 192 Automatic Transmission........... 162
Oil, What Kind to Use ............... 157 Brake ........................................... 164 CONTINUED

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Index

Gasoline .......................................... 110 Turning on .................................... 62 Key (Immobilizer System) ......... 55


Fuel Reserve Indicator ................ 56 Head Restraints ............................... 75 Low Fuel ....................................... 56
Gauge ............................................ 58 Heating and Cooling ........................ 90 Low Oil Pressure ......................... 54
Octane Requirement ................. 110 High-Low Beam Switch .................. 62 Side Airbag Off ............................ 55
Tank, Filling the......................... 111 Hood, Opening the ........................ 112 SRS ................................................ 55
Gas Station Procedures................. 111 Horn............................................... 3, 60 Turn Signal and Hazard
Gauges Hydraulic Clutch ............................ 164 Warning .................................... 56
Engine Coolant Temperature .... 59 Washer Level ............................... 57
Fuel ................................................ 58 I Indicators, Instrument Panel .......... 53
Gearshift Lever Positions Infant Restraint ................................ 34
Automatic Transmission........... 127 Identification Number, Vehicle.... 202 Infant Seats ....................................... 34
5-speed Manual Ignition LATCH Anchorage System ....... 39
Transmission.......................... 126 Keys............................................... 65 Lower Anchors ............................ 39
Glove Box ......................................... 87 Switch ............................................ 69 Tether Anchorage Points ........... 43
Timing Control System ............. 210 Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 172
H Immobilizer System......................... 66 Normal Driving .......................... 173
Important Safety Precautions .......... 6 Inside Mirror .................................... 82
Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 166 Indicators Inspection, Tire .............................. 174
Hatch ................................................. 71 ABS (Anti-Lock Brake)............... 55 Instrument Panel ............................. 53
Hazard Warning Flashers............... 63 Brake (Parking and Brake Instrument Panel Brightness ......... 63
Headlights System) ............................. 54, 194 Introduction ......................................... i
Aiming ......................................... 166 Charging System ......................... 54
Daytime Running Lights............. 62 Cruise Control .............................. 56 J
High Beam Indicator ................... 56 DRL (Daytime Running
Reminder Beeper ......................... 62 Lights)....................................... 56 Jacking up the Vehicle .................. 183
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 166 High Beam .................................... 56 Jack, Tire ........................................ 181

IV
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Index

Jump Starting ................................. 188 Low Fuel Indicator .......................... 56 NOTICE, Explanation of .................... i
Low Oil Pressure Indicator .... 54, 192 Numbers, Identification ................ 202
K Lower Anchors................................. 39
Lubricant Specifications Chart .... 204 O
Keys ................................................... 65 Luggage, Storing (Cargo) ............... 117
Octane Requirement, Gasoline .... 110
L M Odometer .......................................... 58
Odometer, Trip ................................ 58
Label, Certification ........................ 202 Maintenance ................................... 147 Off-Highway Driving ..................... 143
Lane Change, Signaling .................. 62 Owner Maintenance Checks.... 151 Oil
Lap/Shoulder Belts ................... 14, 19 Record .................................. 154-155 Change, How to ......................... 158
LATCH Anchorage System............ 39 Required Indicator ....................... 57 Change, When to ....................... 152
Lights Safety........................................... 148 Checking Engine ....................... 113
Bulb Replacement ..................... 166 Schedule .............................. 152-153 Pressure Indicator ............... 54, 192
Indicator ........................................ 53 Malfunction Indicator Lamp .. 54, 193 Selecting Proper Viscosity
Parking .......................................... 62 Manual Transmission.................... 125 Chart ....................................... 157
Turn Signal ................................... 62 Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 163 ON (Ignition Key Position) ............ 69
Load Limit ...................................... 118 Meters, Gauges.......................... 53, 58 Onboard Refueling Vapor
LOCK (Ignition Key Position) ....... 69 Mirrors, Adjusting ........................... 82 Recovery ..................................... 209
Locks Modifying Your Vehicle................ 116 Outside Mirrors ............................... 82
Anti-theft Steering Column ........ 69 Overdrive ........................................ 129
Fuel Fill Door ............................. 111 N Overheating, Engine ..................... 190
Glove Box ..................................... 87 Owner Maintenance Checks ........ 151
Power Door .................................. 70 Neutral Gear Position.................... 128
Tailgate ......................................... 72 New Vehicle Break-in ................... 110
Low Coolant Level ......................... 113 Normal Shift Speeds...................... 126 CONTINUED

V
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Index

P R Replacing Seat Belts After a


Crash ............................................. 21
Panel Brightness Control ............... 63 Radiator Overheating .................... 190 Reserve Tank, Engine
Park Gear Position......................... 127 Radio/CD Sound System ................ 94 Coolant ................................ 113, 160
Parking ............................................ 131 Readiness Codes ............................ 193 Restraint, Child ................................ 29
Parking Brake .................................. 83 Rear Doors........................................ 70 Reverse Gear Position................... 128
Parking Brake and Brake Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement ... 169 Reverse Lockout ............................ 130
System Indicator .................. 54, 194 Rear Seat Access ............................. 75 Roof Rack ....................................... 119
Parking Lights.................................. 62 Rear Seat, Folding ........................... 77 Rotation, Tire ................................. 175
Parking Over Things that Burn ... 131 Rear View Mirror ............................. 82
PGM-FI System.............................. 210 Rear Window Defogger .................. 63 S
Power Socket Locations.................. 87 Rear Window Wiper and Washer .. 61
Power Windows ............................... 81 Reclining the Seat-Backs ................ 73 Safety Belts................................... 8, 19
Power Door Locks ........................... 70 Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 126 Safety Defects, Reporting* .......... 216
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts .......... 17 Reminder Lights .............................. 53 Safety Features .................................. 7
Protecting Adults and Teens.......... 11 Removing the Rear Seats................ 79 Airbags .......................................... 10
Additional Safety Precautions .... 18 Remote Transmitter ........................ 67 Door Locks ................................... 11
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 17 Replacement Information Head Restraints ........................... 14
Protecting Children ......................... 29 Dust and Pollen Filter ............... 170 Seat Belts ........................................ 8
Protecting Infants ........................ 34 Engine Oil and Filter ................. 158 Seats and Seat-Backs ............ 11, 13
Protecting Larger Children ........ 44 Fuses ........................................... 196 Safety Labels, Location of .............. 49
Protecting Small Children .......... 36 Light Bulbs ................................. 166 Safety Messages ................................ ii
Using Child Seats with Schedule ..................................... 152 Seat Belts ...................................... 8, 19
Tethers...................................... 39 Tires ............................................ 172 Additional Information ................ 19
Using LATCH .............................. 39 Wiper Blades .............................. 171 Advice for Pregnant Women...... 17

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Index

Automatic Seat Belt Spare Tyre ...................................... 180 Supplemental Restraint


Tensioners ................................ 20 Inflating ....................................... 180 System................................. 10, 22
Cleaning ...................................... 170 Specifications Charts..................... 204 Servicing ....................................... 27
Lap/Shoulder Belt ................. 14, 19 Speed Control ................................. 107 SRS Indicator.......................... 26, 55
Maintenance ................................. 21 SRS, Additional Information........... 22 System Components.................... 22
Reminder Light ...................... 19, 54 Additional Safety Precautions .... 28 Synthetic Oil ................................... 158
System Components.................... 19 Airbag Service .............................. 27
Use During Pregnancy................ 17 How the Side Airbag Off T
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt .... 14 Indicator Light Works ............ 27
Seats, Adjusting the ......................... 73 How the SRS Indicator Works ... 26 Tailgate
Serial Number ................................ 202 How Your Front Airbags Open Indicator ............................. 57
Service Intervals ............................ 152 Work.......................................... 22 Opening the .................................. 72
Service Manual* ............................ 217 How Your Side Airbags Work.... 25 Taillights, Changing Bulbs ........... 169
Service Station Procedure ............ 111 SRS Components ......................... 22 Taking Care of the Unexpected .. 179
Setting the Clock ........................... 105 SRS Indicator.............................. 26, 55 Technical Descriptions
Shift Lever Position Indicator ...... 127 START (Ignition Key Position) ..... 69 DOT Tire Quality Grading ....... 206
Shift Lock Release ......................... 130 State Emissions Testing ............... 212 Emissions Control Systems ...... 209
Side Airbags ..................................... 25 Starting the Engine........................ 124 Three Way Catalytic
Off Indicator ................................. 27 With a Dead Battery ................. 188 Converter ................................ 211
Side Marker Lights, Bulb Steam Coming from Engine ......... 190 Temperature Gauge ........................ 59
Replacement ............................... 168 Steering Wheel Tether Anchorage Points ............... 43
Signaling Turns ................................ 62 Adjustment ................................... 64 Theft Protection............................. 104
Skylight ............................................. 83 Anti-theft Column Lock .............. 69 Three Way Catalytic Converter ... 211
Snow Tires ...................................... 176 Stereo Sound System ...................... 94 Tilt the Steering Wheel................... 64
Sound System ................................... 94 Storing Your Vehicle ..................... 178
CONTINUED

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Index

Time, Setting the ........................... 105 Transmission Vehicle Storage .............................. 178
Tire Chains ..................................... 176 Checking Fluid Level, Ventilation......................................... 92
Tire, How to Change a Flat .......... 181 Automatic ............................... 162 VIN .................................................. 202
Tire Information ............................ 208 Checking Fluid Level, Viscosity, Oil................................... 157
Tires ................................................ 172 Manual .................................... 163
Air Pressure ............................... 173 Fluid Selection ................... 162, 163 W
Checking Wear .......................... 174 Identification Number............... 202
Compact Spare ........................... 180 Shifting the Automatic .............. 127 WARNING, Explanation of .............. ii
DOT Tire Quality Grading ....... 206 Shifting the Manual ................... 125 Warning Labels, Location of .......... 49
Inflation ....................................... 172 Treadwear ...................................... 206 Warranty Coverages* ................... 215
Inspection ................................... 174 Trip Meter ........................................ 58 Washers, Windshield
Maintenance ............................... 174 Turn Signals ..................................... 62 Checking the Fluid Level ......... 161
Replacing .................................... 175 Operation ...................................... 61
Rotating....................................... 175 U Wheels
Snow ............................................ 176 Adjusting the Steering ................ 64
Specifications ............................. 205 Unexpected, Taking Care Alignment and Balance ............. 174
Tire Chains ................................. 176 of the ........................................... 179 Wrench ....................................... 183
Tools, Tire Changing .................... 181 Uniform Tire Quality Grading ..... 206 Windows
Towing Unleaded Gasoline......................... 110 Operating the Power ................... 81
A Trailer ...................................... 135 Used Oil, How to Dispose of ........ 159 Rear, Defogger ............................ 63
Behind a Motorhome ................ 141 Windshield
Emergency ................................. 195 V Cleaning ........................................ 61
Equipment And Accessories .... 137 Defroster ...................................... 91
Weight Limit .............................. 135 Vehicle Capacity Load .................. 118 Washers ...................................... 161
Trailer Loading .............................. 136 Vehicle Dimensions....................... 204 Wipers, Windshield
Trailer Towing Tips....................... 139 Vehicle Identification Number..... 202 Changing Blades ........................ 171

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Index

Operation ...................................... 61
Worn Tires ..................................... 174
Wrecker, Emergency Towing ...... 195

: U.S. and Canada only

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Service Information Summary

Gasoline: 5-speed Manual Transmission Brake Fluid:


Unleaded gasoline, pump octane Fluid: Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid
number of 86 or higher. Honda Manual Transmission DOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 or
Fluid preferred, or an SAE 10W-30 DOT 4 brake fluid as a temporary
Fuel Tank Capacity: or 10W-40 motor oil as a replacement (see page 164 ).
15.9 US gal (60 ) temporary replacement (see page
163 ). Tire Pressure (measured cold):
Recommended Engine Oil: Front:
API Premium grade 5W-20 Capacity (including differential): 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )
detergent oil (see page 157 ). 2.0 US qt (1.9 ) Rear:
34 psi (235 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm )
Oil change capacity (including Rear Differential Fluid:
filter): Honda Dual Pump Fluid. Do not Spare Tire Pressure:
4.4 US qt (4.2 ) use ATF. 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

Automatic Transmission Fluid: Capacity:


Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic 1.1 US qt (1.0 )
Transmission Fluid) preferred, or
a DEXRON III ATF as a Power Steering Fluid:
temporary replacement (see page Honda Power Steering Fluid
162 ). preferred, or another brand of
power steering fluid as a
temporary replacement. Do not
use ATF (see page 165 ).
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Driving Guidelines

Your Honda has a higher ground Do not modify your vehicle in any Four-wheel Drive Models
clearance that allows you to travel way that would raise the center of Your Honda is equipped with a four-
over bumps, obstacles, and rough gravity. wheel drive (4WD) system. When
terrain. It also provides good the system senses a loss of front-
visibility so you can anticipate Do not carry heavy cargo on the wheel traction, it automatically
problems earlier. roof. transfers some power to the rear
wheels. This gives you better
Because your vehicle rides higher traction and mobility.
off the ground, it has a high center
of gravity that can cause it to roll You still need to exercise the same
over if you make abrupt turns. Utility care when accelerating, steering, and
vehicles have a significantly higher braking that you would in a two-
roll over rate than other types of wheel drive vehicle.
vehicles.
See page 143 for additional guidelines
To prevent rollovers or loss of for driving off-highway.
control:

Take corners at slower speeds


than you would with a passenger
vehicle.

Avoid sharp turns and abrupt


maneuvers whenever possible.

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Driving Guidelines

Preparing to Drive 5. Check the seat adjustment (see 8. Make sure the doors, hatch, and
You should do the following checks page 73 ). tailgate are securely closed and
and adjustments before you drive locked.
your vehicle. 6. Check the adjustment of the
inside and outside mirrors (see 9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that
1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, page 82 ). your passengers have fastened
and outside lights are clean and their seat belts (see page 14 ).
unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, 7. Check the steering wheel
or ice. adjustment (see page 64 ). 10.When you start the engine, check
the gauges and indicator lights in
2. Check that the hood, tailgate and the instrument panel (see page
hatch are fully closed. 53 ).

3. Visually check the tires. If a tire


looks low, use a gauge to check its
pressure.

4. Check that any items you may be


carrying with you inside are stored
properly or fastened down
securely.

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Starting the Engine

1. Apply the parking brake. 4. Without touching the accelerator 6. If the engine still does not start,
pedal, turn the ignition key to the press the accelerator pedal all the
2. In cold weather, turn off all START (III) position. Do not hold way down and hold it there while
electrical accessories to reduce the key in START for more than starting in order to clear flooding.
the drain on the battery. 15 seconds at a time. If the engine If the engine still does not start,
does not start right away, pause return to step 5.
3. Manual Transmission: for at least 10 seconds before
Push the clutch pedal down all the trying again.
way.
5. If the engine does not start within The engine is harder to start in cold
Automatic Transmission: 15 seconds, or starts but stalls weather. Also, the thinner air f ound at
Make sure the shift lever is in right away, repeat step 4 with the altitudes above 8,000 f eet (2,400
Park. Press on the brake pedal. accelerator pedal pressed halfway meters) adds to this problem.
down. If the engine starts, release
pressure on the accelerator pedal
so the engine does not race.

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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 vehicle moving. can cause loss of control on
Push down the clutch pedal, and slippery surfaces. If you crash,
pause for a few seconds before you can be injured.
shifting into Reverse, or shift into
one of the forward gears for a Use extra care when driving on
moment. This stops the gears so slippery surfaces.
they won’t ‘‘grind.’’

When slowing down, you can get


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

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5-speed Manual Transmission

Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter


Drive in the highest gear that lets If you exceed the maximum speed
the engine run and accelerate for the gear you are in, the engine
smoothly. This will give you good speed will enter into the tachometer’s
fuel economy and effective red zone. If this occurs, you may feel
emissions control. The following the engine cut in and out. This is
shift points are recommended: caused by a limiter in the engine’s
computer controls. The engine will
Shift up Normal acceleration run normally when you reduce the
RPM below the red zone.
1st to 2nd 15 mph (24 km/h)
2nd to 3rd 25 mph (40 km/h) Before downshifting, make sure the
3rd to 4th 40 mph (64 km/h) engine will not go into the
4th to 5th 48 mph (77 km/h) tachometer’s red zone.

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

General Information Important Safety Precautions


Your vehicle has been designed To avoid loss of control or rollover,
primarily for use on pavement. But Improperly operating this be sure to follow all precautions and
its higher ground clearance allows vehicle on or off-pavement can recommendations.
you to occasionally travel on unpaved cause an accident or rollover in
roads, to campgrounds, picnic sites, which you and your passengers Be sure to store cargo properly
and similar locations. It is not could be seriously injured or and do not exceed your Honda
designed for trail-blazing, mountain killed. cargo load limits (see pages
climbing, or other challenging off- 118 and 136 ).
road activities. Follow all instructions and
guidelines in the owner’s Wherever you drive, make sure
If you decide to drive on unpaved manual. you and your passengers always
roads, you will find that it requires Keep your speed low and wear seat belts.
somewhat different driving skills. don’t drive faster than
Your vehicle will also handle conditions permit. Keep your speed low, and never
somewhat differently than it does on go faster than the conditions allow.
pavement. So be sure to read this
owner’s manual, pay special attention It’s up to you to continually assess
to the precautions and tips in this the situation and drive within the
section, and get acquainted with limits.
your vehicle before you leave the
pavement.

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Check Out Your Vehicle Accelerating and Braking Avoiding Obstacles


Before you leave the pavement, be For better traction on all surfaces, Debris in the road can damage your
sure to do all scheduled maintenance accelerate slowly and gradually build suspension or other components.
and service and that you inspect your up speed. If you try to start too fast Because your vehicle has a high
vehicle. Pay special attention to the on wet soil, mud, snow, or ice, you center of gravity, driving over a large
condition of the tires and check the might not have enough traction to obstacle, or allowing a wheel to drop
tire pressure. get underway and you may dig into a deep hole can cause your
yourself a hole. Starting with the vehicle to tip or roll over.
After you return to the pavement, shift lever in second gear (2) will
carefully inspect your vehicle to help you have a smoother start on Driving on Slopes
make sure there is no damage that snow and ice. If you can’t clearly see all road
could make driving it unsafe. conditions or obstacles, walk the
Recheck the condition of the tires Keep in mind that you will usually slope before you drive on it. If you
and the tire pressure. need more time and distance to have any doubt whether or not you
brake to a stop on unpaved surfaces. can safely drive on the slope, don’t
Remember: Avoid hard braking. Do not pump do it. Find another route.
The route presents limits (too steep the brakes; let the anti-lock braking
or bumpy roads). You have limits system pump them for you. If you are driving up a hill and find
(driving skill and comfort). And your that you cannot continue, do not try to
vehicle has limits (traction, stability, turn around. Your vehicle could roll
and power). over. Slowly back down the hill,
following the same route you took up
Driving off-highway can be the hill.
hazardous if you fail to recognize
limits and take the proper
precautions.

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Crossing a Stream If You Get Stuck 4-Wheel Drive Vehicles


Avoid driving through deep water. If Avoid driving on soft sand, deep mud, If you spin the wheels excessively
you encounter water in your route (a or other surfaces where you could trying to get unstuck, you may
small stream or large puddle, for get stuck. If you do happen to get overheat the components of the
example), evaluate it carefully before stuck because of inclement weather 4-wheel drive system. If this happens,
going ahead. Make sure it is shallow, or other conditions, choose a safe the 4-wheel drive system shuts off
flowing slowly, and has firm ground and appropriate course of action. and only the front wheels receive
underneath. If you are not sure of power. If this happens, stop and
the depth or the ground, turn around You should never use a jack to try allow everything to cool down. The
and find another route. getting unstuck. A jack only works 4-wheel drive system will work again
on firm, level ground. Also, your after its temperature drops.
Driving through deep water can also vehicle could easily slip off the jack
damage your vehicle. The water can and hurt you or someone else. If you slip the clutch for a long time
get into the transmission and while trying to get unstuck, you may
differential, diluting the lubricant overheat and damage it.
and causing an eventual failure. It
can also wash the grease out of the
wheel bearings.

Driving 145
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146
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Control Locations

POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH MIRROR CONTROLS (P.82) AUDIO SYSTEM


(P.70) (P.94)

POWER WINDOW
SWITCHES
(P.81)

HEATING/COOLING
CONTROLS
(P.90)

HOOD RELEASE
HANDLE
(P.112)

PARKING BRAKE
(P.83)

A/T model is shown.

52 Instruments and Controls


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Instrument Panel

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP SEAT BELT HIGH BEAM INDICATOR LOW FUEL INDICATOR
(P.54, 193) REMINDER (P.56) (P.56)
INDICATOR
(P.54) SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM INDICATOR
(P.55)
LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR
(P.54, 192) TAILGATE AND HATCH
OPEN INDICATOR
(P.57)

PARKING BRAKE AND


BRAKE SYSTEM
INDICATOR*
(P.54, 194)

DOOR-OPEN
INDICATOR
(P.57)

MAINTENANCE
REQUIRED INDICATOR
(P.57)
CHARGING SYSTEM IMMOBILIZER CRUISE CONTROL SIDE AIRBAG OFF ANTI-LOCK BRAKE
INDICATOR SYSTEM INDICATOR INDICATOR SYSTEM INDICATOR
(P.54, 192) INDICATOR (P.56) (P.55) (P.55)
(P.55)

*The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian models are noted in the text.
Instruments and Controls 53
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Instrument Panel

The instrument panel has many U.S. Canada


Parking Brake and Seat Belt Reminder
indicators that give you important Brake System Indicator
information about your vehicle. Indicator This indicator comes on when you
This indicator has two functions: turn the ignition switch to ON (II). It
Malfunction Indicator is a reminder you and your
Lamp 1. It comes on when you turn the passengers to protect yourselves by
See page 193 . ignition switch to ON (II). It is a fastening you seat belts.
reminder to check the parking
Low Oil Pressure brake. Driving with the parking If you do not fasten your seat belt,
Indicator brake not fully released can the indicator stays on until you do.
The engine can be severely damaged damage the brakes and tires. The indicator stays off if you fasten
if this indicator flashes or stays on your seat belt before turning on the
when the engine is running. For 2. If the indicator remains lit after ignition.
more information, see page 192. you have fully released the
parking brake while the engine is
Charging System running, or if it comes on while
Indicator driving, it can indicate a problem
If this indicator comes on when the in the brake system. For complete
engine is running, the battery is not information, see page 194 .
being charged. For more information,
see page 192 .

54 Instruments and Controls


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Instrument Panel

Supplemental Restraint Anti-lock Brake System Immobilizer System


System Indicator (ABS) Indicator Indicator
This indicator comes on when you EX models only This indicator comes on for a few
turn the ignition switch to ON (II). If This indicator normally comes on for seconds when you turn the ignition
it comes on at any other time, it a few seconds when you turn the switch to ON (II). It will go off if you
indicates a potential problem with ignition switch to ON (II), and when have inserted a properly-coded
your front airbags. This indicator will the ignition switch is turned to ignition key. If it is not a properly-
also alert you to a potential problem START (III). If it comes on at any coded key, the indicator will blink
with your side airbags, passenger’s other time, there is a problem with and the engine will not start (see
side airbag automatic cutoff system the ABS. If this happens, have your page 66 ).
or automatic seat belt tensioners. vehicle checked at a dealer. With
For complete information, see page this on, your vehicle still has normal This indicator also blinks several
26 . braking ability but no anti-lock times when you turn the ignition
brakes. For complete information, switch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY
Side Airbag Off Indicator see page 134. (I) or LOCK (0).

Optional on EX models
This indicator comes on when you
turn the ignition switch to ON (II). If
it comes on at any other time, it
indicates that the passenger’s side
airbag has automatically shut off.
For more information, see page 25 .

Instruments and Controls 55


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Instrument Panel

‘‘Daytime Running High Beam Indicator


Lights’’ Indicator
Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Canadian models only This comes on with the high beam
Indicators This indicator comes on when you headlights. See page 62 for
The left or right turn signal indicator turn the ignition switch to ON (II) information on the headlight
blinks when you signal a lane change with the headlight switch off and the controls.
or turn. If the indicator does not parking brake set. It should go off if
blink or blinks rapidly, it usually you turn on the headlights or release On Canadian models, this indicator
means one of the turn signal bulbs is the parking brake. If it comes on at comes on with reduced brightness
burned out (see page 167 ). Replace any other time, it means there is a when the Daytime Running Lights
the bulb as soon as possible, since problem with the DRL. There may (DRL) are on (see page 62 ).
other drivers cannot see that you are also be a problem with the high
signaling. beam headlights. Low Fuel Indicator

When you turn on the Hazard Cruise Control Indicator This comes on as a reminder that
Warning button, both turn signal you must refuel soon.
indicators blink. All turn signals on On EX models
the outside of the vehicle should This comes on when you set the
flash. cruise control. See page 107 for
information on operating the cruise
control.

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Instrument Panel

Washer Level Indicator Maintenance Required Your dealer will reset this indicator
Indicator after completing the scheduled
Canadian models only This indicator reminds you that it is maintenance. If this maintenance is
This comes on when the washer time to take your vehicle in for done by someone other than your
fluid level is low. Add washer fluid scheduled maintenance. Honda dealer, reset the indicator as
when you see this light come on (see Refer to the Maintenance Schedules follows.
page 161 ). for Normal and Severe Driving
Conditions on pages 152 − 153 . 1. Turn off the engine.
Tailgate and Hatch Open
Indicator For the first 8,000 miles (12,800 km) 2. Press and hold the Select/Reset
This indicator comes on if the after the Maintenance Required button on the instrument panel,
tailgate or the hatch is not closed Indicator is reset, it will come on for then turn the ignition switch to
tightly. two seconds when you turn the ON (II).
ignition switch to ON (II).
Door-open Indicator 3. Hold the button for about 10
Between 8,000 miles (12,800 km) seconds until the indicator goes
This indicator comes on if any door and 10,000 miles (16,000 km), it will off.
is not closed tightly. light for two seconds when you first
turn the ignition switch to ON (II),
and then flash for ten seconds.

If you exceed 10,000 miles (16,000


km) without having the scheduled
maintenance performed, this
indicator will remain on as a constant
reminder.

Instruments and Controls 57


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Mirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors 2. Push the appropriate edge of the


If equipped adjustment switch to move the
mirror right, left, up, or down.
SELECTOR SWITCH
3. When you finish, move the
selector switch to the center (off)
position. This turns off the
adjustment switch so you can’t
move a mirror out of position by
accidentally bumping the switch.
TAB

Keep the inside and outside mirrors ADJUSTMENT SWITCH


clean and adjusted for best visibility.
Be sure to adjust the mirrors before 1. Move the selector switch to L
you start driving. (driver’s side) or R (passenger’s
side).
The inside mirror has day and night
positions. The night position reduces
glare from headlights behind you.
Flip the tab on the bottom edge of
the mirror to select the day or night
position.

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Rear Windows, Parking Brake, Skylight

Rear Windows Parking Brake Skylight


PARKING BRAKE LEVER

To open a rear window, pull the lever To apply the parking brake, pull the On 4WD models only
towards you, then push it out until it lever up fully. To release it, pull up To lift up the rear of the skylight for
locks. To close the rear window pull slightly, push the button, and lower ventilation, pull down the lever to
the lever towards you, then push it the lever. The parking brake light on unlock the skylight, then push it up
back. Make sure the window is fully the instrument panel should go out until the skylight is locked in the tilt-
closed and locked. when the parking brake is fully up position.
released (see page 54 ).
To close the skylight, pull down the
lever to unlock the skylight, then
Driving the vehicle with the parking push it back in place. Make sure the
brake applied can damage the rear skylight is fully closed and locked.
brakes and axles. CONTINUED

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Skylight

If you try to tilt up the skylight in


below-f reezing temperatures, or when
it is covered with snow or ice, you can
damage it.

Bef ore lif ting the skylight, make sure


the roof of the vehicle is dry. Rain or
remaining water af ter car-washing may
get into the f rame of the skylight. In
winter, remove the buildup of snow on
the roof .

To remove the skylight: Push up the rear of the skylight.


Turn off the engine, and set the Standing on the tailgate with the
parking brake. Then pull down the hatch down, hold both sides of the
lever, squeeze both sides of the pivot skylight and pull it toward you to
while pushing up the red tab in the remove it from the vehicle roof.
lever, and pull the lever assembly
away from the ceiling.

The maximum weight on the tailgate is


440 lbs (200 kg).

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Skylight

An unsecured skylight can be


thrown about and cause serious
injury in a sudden stop or crash.

Make sure to store the skylight


in its bag, and secure the bag to
the hooks on the cargo area
floor.

With the rear seats in their upright To reinstall the skylight, make sure
position, store the skylight, face the air deflector is pushed down.
down in its bag in the cargo area. When reinstalling the lever assembly,
Secure the bag with four hooks on push in both pivots, and align with
the cargo area floor. Do not store the receptacle holes. Let the pivots
anything on top of the skylight. move out until they rest in the holes
securely. Make sure the skylight is
fully closed and latched.

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Gauges

TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE Odometer


This shows the total distance your
vehicle has been driven. It measures
miles in U.S. models and kilometers
in the Canadian models.
It is illegal under U.S. federal law and
SELECT/RESET
Canadian provincial regulations to
BUTTON disconnect, reset, or alter the
odometer with the intent to change
the number of miles or kilometers
indicated.
ODOMETER/TRIP METER TEMPERATURE GAUGE
Fuel Gauge
Trip Meter Each trip meter works independently, This shows how much fuel you have.
This shows the number of miles (U.S.) so you can keep track of two It may show slightly more or less
or kilometers (Canada) driven since different distances. than the actual amount. The needle
you last reset it. returns to the bottom after you turn
To reset a trip meter, display it, and off the ignition.
There are two trip meters: Trip A then press and hold the Select/Reset
and Trip B. Switch between these button until the number resets to
displays and the odometer by ‘‘0.0’’. Both trip meters will reset if
pressing the Select/Reset button the vehicle’s battery goes dead or is Avoid driving with an extremely low
repeatedly. disconnected. f uel level. Running out of f uel could
cause the engine to misf ire, damaging
the catalytic converter.

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Gauges

Temperature Gauge
This shows the temperature of the
engine’s coolant. During normal
operation, the pointer should rise to
about the middle of the gauge. In
severe driving conditions, the pointer
may rise to the upper zone. If it
reaches the red (Hot) mark, pull
safely to the side of the road. Turn to
page 190 for instructions and
precautions on checking the engine’s
cooling system.

Instruments and Controls 59


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Door Locks

Power Door Locks To lock the driver’s door, remove the Rear Doors
key from the ignition switch, pull the
DOOR LOCK SWITCH outside door handle and push the
lock tab down or push the door lock
switch down. Release the handle,
then close the door.

To unlock the driver’s door from the


outside, turn the key and release it.

LOCK TAB

To lock all of the doors and hatch, To open the rear door, pull the rear
press the door lock switch on either door handle located in the rear door
front door, or press the lock tab edge. The rear door can be opened
down on the driver’s door, or use the only when the front door is open.
key on the outside lock.
Pressing up on the door lock switch To close the doors, close the rear
will unlock all of the doors and the door first, then the front door. The
hatch. front door cannot be latched without
The lock tab on the passenger’s door first closing the rear door. Closing
locks and unlocks only that door. the rear door on the front door will
Pulling up on the driver’s door lock damage both doors.
tab only unlocks the driver’s door.

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Door Locks

Hatch Lock the hatch by pushing down


the lock tab on the driver’s door
(see page 70 ), or by using the
master key in the driver’s door
lock.
LOCK
Lock or unlock the hatch with the
master door lock switch.

UNLOCK

To lock or unlock the hatch. With the hatch unlocked, open it by


pulling the handle and lifting up.
Use your master key to lock and To close the hatch, lower it, then
unlock the hatch. Turn the key press down on the back edge.
clockwise to lock the hatch, and
counterclockwise to unlock it. When both the hatch and tailgate are
open, the hatch cannot be latched
without first closing the tailgate.

CONTINUED

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Door Locks

See page 117 for information on Tailgate See page 117 for information on
cargo loading. Keep the hatch closed cargo loading. Keep the tailgate and
at all times while driving to avoid the hatch closed at all times while
damaging the hatch, and to prevent driving to avoid damaging them, and
exhaust gas from getting into the to prevent exhaust gas from getting
interior. See Carbon Monoxide into the interior. See Carbon
Hazard on page 48 . Monoxide Hazard on page 48 .

You can open the tailgate only when


the hatch is open. To open the
tailgate, slide the lock lever to the
left and swing down the tailgate. To
close the tailgate, lift it up and push
it firmly until it latches.

Before closing the tailgate, make


sure the hatch is raised. Closing the
tailgate on the lowered hatch can
damage the hatch and the tailgate.

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Vents, Heating, and A/C

FAN CONTROL DIAL TEMPERATURE MODE CONTROL DIAL


CONTROL DIAL

DEFROST POSITION

RECIRCULATION BUTTON AIR CONDITIONING REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER


(A/C) BUTTON BUTTON

MAX A/C POSITION

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Air Flow Buttons

Fan Control Dial The outside air intakes for the If equipped
Turn this dial clockwise to increase heating and cooling system are at
fan speed and increase the airflow. the base of the windshield. Keep this The system automatically
area clear of leaves and other debris. turns on the A/C and switches to
Temperature Control Dial Recirculation mode. Air flows from
Turning this dial clockwise increases The system should be left in Fresh the center and side vents in the
the temperature of the airflow. Air mode under almost all conditions. dashboard.
Keeping the system in Recirculation
Air Conditioning (A/C) Button mode, particularly with the A/C off, Air flows from the center
If equipped can cause the windows to fog up. and corner vents in the dashboard.
This button turns the air
conditioning on and off. The light in Switch to Recirculation mode when Air flow is divided between
the button is on when the A/C is on. driving through dusty or smoky the vents in the dashboard and the
conditions, then return to Fresh Air floor vents.
Recirculation Button mode.
When the light in the button is on, Air flows from the floor
air from the vehicle’s interior is sent Rear Window Defogger Button vents. When you select , the
throughout the system again. When This button turns the rear window system automatically switches to
the light is off, air is brought in from defogger off and on (see page 63 ). Fresh Air mode.
the outside of the vehicle (Fresh Air
mode). Mode Control Dial Air flow is divided between
Use the mode control dial to select the floor vents and the defroster
the vents the air flows from. Some vents at the base of the windshield.
air will flow from the dashboard
vents in all modes.

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Vents, Heating, and A/C

Air flows from the defroster Using the Heater 2. Make sure the temperature
vents at the base of the windshield. The heater uses engine coolant to control dial is all the way to the left.
warm the air. If the engine is cold, it 3. Select .
When you select or , will be several minutes before you 4. If the outside air is humid, select
the system automatically switches to feel warm air coming from the Recirculation mode. If the outside
Fresh Air mode and turns on the system. air is dry, select Fresh Air mode.
A/C. The A/C indicator does not 5. Set the fan to the desired speed.
come on. 1. Select and Fresh Air mode.
2. Set the fan to the desired speed. To cool the interior with MAX A/C:
Ventilation 3. Adjust the warmth of the air with 1. Set the mode control dial to MAX
(Fresh Air mode) the temperature control dial. A/C.
The flow-through ventilation system The system automatically turns on
draws in outside air, circulates it Using the A/C the A/C, selects and
through the interior, then exhausts it If equipped switches to Recirculation mode.
through vents near the tailgate. Air conditioning places an extra load 2. Make sure the temperature
on the engine. Watch the engine control dial is all the way to the left.
1. Turn the temperature control dial coolant temperature gauge (see page 3. Set the fan to the desired speed.
all the way to the left. 59 ). If it moves near the red zone,
2. Make sure the A/C is off. turn off the A/C until the gauge
3. Select and Fresh Air mode. reads normally.
4. Set the fan to the desired speed.
1. Turn on the A/C by pressing the
button. The light in the button
comes on when a fan speed is
selected.

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Vents, Heating, and A/C

Dehumidify the Interior To Remove Exterior Frost or Ice


Air conditioning, as it cools, removes From the Windows
moisture from the air. When used in 1. Select . The system
combination with the heater, it automatically switches to Fresh
makes the interior warm and dry. Air mode and turns on the A/C.
The A/C indicator does not come
1. Switch the fan on. on.
2. Turn on the air conditioning. 2. Select .
3. Select and Fresh Air mode. 3. Set the fan and temperature
4. Adjust the temperature control controls to maximum level.
dial to your preference. 4. Select to help clear the
rear window.
This setting is suitable for all driving
conditions whenever the outside To clear the windows faster, you can
temperature is above 32°F (0°C). close the dashboard corner vents by
rotating the wheel below it. This will
send more warm air to the
windshield defroster vents. Once the
windshield is clear, select the Fresh
Air mode to avoid fogging the
windows.

For your safety, make sure you have


a clear view through all the windows
before driving.

Comfort and Convenience Features 93


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Seats

Seat Adjustments Front Seat


See pages 11 − 13 for important safety
information and warnings about how to
properly position the seats and seat-
backs.

Make all seat adjustments before


you start driving.

To adjust the front or rear seat To change the angle of the seat-back,
forward and backward, pull up on the pull up on the lever on the outside of
bar under the seat cushion’s front the seat bottom. Adjust the seat-back
edge. Move the seat, and make sure and make sure it locks into position.
it locks into position.

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Seats

Driver’s Seat Height Adjustment Front Seat Armrests Rear Seat


SEAT-BACK ADJUSTMENT STRAP

To adjust the height of the driver’s On EX models To change the angle of the rear seat-
seat, turn the dial on the outside of Each front seat has an armrest on back, pull the strap at the inside
the seat bottom. the side of the seat-back. To use it, edge of the seat cushion, make sure
pivot it down. the seat-back locks into position.

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Seats

Head Restraints The head restraints adjust for height. Rear Seat Access
See page 14 for important safety To raise it, pull upward. To lower the
information and a warning about how to restraint, push the release button RELEASE LEVER
properly position the head restraints. sideways and push the restraint
down.

To remove a head restraint for


cleaning or repair, pull it up as far as
it will go. Push the release button,
then pull the restraint out of the seat-
back.

The rear seat passengers can get out


RELEASE BUTTON through the passenger’s door. Push
down on the release lever at the base
Your vehicle is equipped with head of the front passenger’s seat-back,
restraints in all seating positions. and push the seat-back forward. The
seat-back will tilt forward and the
The head restraints help protect you entire seat will move forward.
and your passengers from whiplash
and other injuries. They are most Make sure the seat is upright and
effective when you adjust them so fully latched before sitting in it.
the back of the occupant’s head rests
against the center of the restraint.

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Seats

Reclining the Front Seats 2. Adjust the front seats forward as


far as they will go. Pull up the seat-
back angle adjustment lever and
pivot the seat-back backward until
it is level with the rear seat
cushion.

3. Move the front seat backward


until it touches the rear seat.

4. Adjust the rear seat-back to the


desired position.

Reverse this procedure to return the


You can recline the seat-backs on the 1. Remove the head restraints from front and rear seats to the upright
front seats so they are level with the the front seats (see page 75 ), and position. Make sure you install the
rear seat cushions, making a large store them in the side pockets of head restraints and the seats are
cushioned area. To do this: the cargo area. locked securely before driving.

When you return the seat-back to


the upright position, hold the seat-
back to keep it from going up too
quickly.

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Seats

Folding the Rear Seats


To create more cargo space, you can SEAT-BACK ADJUSTMENT STRAP RELEASE STRAP
fold up each rear seat to each side
wall separately.

1. Lower the head restraint to its


lowest position.

2. Pull the seat-back adjustment 3. Pull the release strap on the seat
strap at the inside edge of the seat support, and pivot the seat toward
cushion and push the seat-back the vehicle’s side wall.
backward as far as it will go.

CONTINUED

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Seats

GRAB RAIL SEAT SUPPORT Reverse this procedure to return the


rear seat to the upright position.
When not in use, store the fastening
strap hook in the fabric pocket on
the bottom of the seat cushion.
Make sure the seat is locked
securely.

FASTENING STRAP

4. A fastening strap is attached to the 5. Fold down the seat support.


inside of the seat cushion. While
pushing the seat up and toward
the side wall, hook the fastening
strap to the grab rail.

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Seats

Removing the Rear Seats


TAB LOCK LEVER STEEL HANDLE

RELEASE STRAP COVER

Both seats can be removed to give 2. Remove the cover between the 3. Push the lock lever forward to
more cargo capacity. To remove a seat cushion and the side wall by unlock the seat.
seat: pulling the tab and pulling the
cover straight up.
1. Pull the release strap on the seat
support to unlock the seat support.

CONTINUED

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Seats

Reverse this procedure to reinstall


the seat. Make sure the seat is
STEEL HANDLE securely locked.

Always remove an unsecured seat


from the vehicle before driving. A
seat that is not locked in place could
be thrown about and cause injury in
a sudden stop or crash.

HANDLE STRAP

4. Hold the steel handle next to the


lock lever and the holding strap at
the outside edge of the seat
cushion, and remove the entire
seat by pulling it up and backward.

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Power Windows

DRIVER’S WINDOW SWITCH AUTO REVERSE − If the driver’s


window runs into any obstacle while
Closing a power window on it is closing automatically, it will
someone’s hands or fingers can reverse direction and then stop. To
cause serious injury. close the window, remove the
obstacle, then use the window switch
Make sure your passengers are again.
away from the windows before If your vehicle’s battery is
closing them. disconnected or goes dead, or the
driver’s window fuse is removed, the
AUTO function will be disabled. The
MAIN SWITCH AUTO − To open/close the driver’s power window system needs to be
window, push the window switch reset after reconnecting the battery
Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) firmly down or up to the second or installing the fuse.
to raise or lower either window. To detent, and release it. The window
open the window, push the switch will automatically go up or down all 1. Start the engine. Push down and
down and hold it. Release the switch the way. To stop the window, pull/ hold the driver’s window switch
when you want to stop the window. push on the window switch briefly. until the window is fully open.
Pull back on the switch and hold it to 2. Pull and hold the driver’s window
close the window. If the MAIN switch is OFF, the switch to close the window
passenger’s window cannot be raised completely, then hold the switch
or lowered. Keep the MAIN switch for a second or two more.
off when you have children in the
vehicle so they do not injure If the power windows do not operate
themselves by operating the properly after resetting, have your
passenger’s window unintentionally. vehicle checked by a Honda dealer.

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Break-in Period, Gasoline Type

Break-in Period Gasoline Type come on. If this happens, contact


Help assure your vehicle’s future Your Honda is designed to operate your authorized Honda dealer for
reliability and performance by paying on unleaded gasoline with a pump service.
extra attention to how you drive octane number of 86 or higher. Use
during the first 600 miles (1,000 km). of a lower octane gasoline can cause Some gasoline today is blended with
During this period: a persistent, heavy, metallic rapping oxygenates such as ethanol or
noise in the engine that can lead to MTBE. Your vehicle is designed to
Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid mechanical failure. operate on oxygenated gasoline
acceleration. containing up to 10 percent ethanol
We recommend using gasoline by volume and up to 15 percent
Do not change the oil until the containing detergent additives that MTBE by volume. Do not use
scheduled maintenance time. help prevent fuel system and engine gasoline containing methanol.
deposits.
Avoid hard braking for the first If you notice any undesirable
200 miles (300 km). In addition, in order to maintain good operating symptoms, try another
performance, fuel economy, and service station or switch to another
Do not tow a trailer. emissions control, we strongly brand of gasoline.
recommend, in areas where it is
You should also follow these available, the use of gasoline that Premium fuel is recommended when
recommendations with an does NOT contain manganese-based towing in certain conditions (see
overhauled or exchanged engine, or fuel additives such as MMT. page 139 ).
when the brakes are replaced.
Use of gasoline with these additives For further important fuel-related
may adversely affect performance, information, please refer to your
and cause the Malfunction Indicator Quick Start Guide.
Lamp on your instrument panel to

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Service Station Procedure

Refueling If the fuel nozzle keeps clicking off


1. Park with the driver’s side closest even though the tank is not full,
to the gas pump. Gasoline is highly flammable there may be a problem with your
and explosive. You can be vehicle’s fuel vapor recovery
2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling burned or seriously injured system. The system helps keep
on the notched edge. when handling fuel. fuel vapors from going into the
atmosphere. Consult your dealer.
Stop the engine and keep
heat, sparks, and flames 5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on
away. until it clicks at least three times.
Handle fuel only outdoors. If you do not properly tighten the
Wipe up spills immediately. cap, the Malfunction Indicator
Lamp may come on (see page
193 ).
3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.
You may hear a hissing sound as 6. Push the fuel fill door closed.
pressure inside the tank escapes.
Place the cap in the holder on the
fuel fill door.

4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel


nozzle automatically clicks off. Do
not try to ‘‘top off’’ the tank. Leave
some room for the fuel to expand
with temperature changes.

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Service Station Procedure

Opening and Closing the Hood


HOOD RELEASE HANDLE SUPPORT ROD

LATCH

CLIP

To Open the Hood: If the hood latch handle moves 3. Pull the support rod out of its clip
1. Park the vehicle, and set the stiffly, or if you can open the hood and insert the end into the hole in
parking brake. Pull the hood without lifting the handle, the the hood.
release handle located under the mechanism should be cleaned and
lower left corner of the dashboard. lubricated. To Close the Hood:
The hood will pop up slightly. Lift it up slightly to remove the
support rod from the hole. Put the
2. Put your fingers under the front support rod back into its holding clip.
edge of the hood. The hood latch Lower the hood to the fender, then
handle is above the ‘‘H’’ logo. Push let it drop. Make sure it is securely
this handle up to release it. Lift up latched.
the hood.

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Service Station Procedure

Oil Check Engine Coolant Check


DIPSTICK MAX RESERVE TANK

UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK

MIN

Wait a few minutes after turning the 4. Remove the dipstick again and Look at the coolant level in the
engine off before you check the oil. check the level. It should be radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is
between the upper and lower between the MAX and MIN lines. If
1. Remove the dipstick (orange tab). marks. it is below the MIN line, see Adding
Engine Coolant on page 160 for
2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean If it is near or below the lower mark, information on adding the proper
cloth or paper towel. see Adding Oil on page 157 . coolant.

3. Insert it all the way back in its tube. Refer to Owner’s Maintenance
Checks on page 151 for information
on checking other items in your
Honda.

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Fuel Economy

Improving Fuel Economy Try to maintain a constant speed.


Always maintain your vehicle Every time you slow down and
according to the maintenance speed up, your vehicle uses extra
schedule. See Owner’s fuel. Use the cruise control when
Maintenance Checks (see page appropriate.
151 ).
Combine several short trips into
For example, an underinflated tire one.
causes more ‘‘rolling resistance,’’
which uses fuel. The air conditioning puts an extra
load on the engine which makes it
The build-up of snow or mud on use more fuel. Use the fresh-air
your vehicle’s underside adds ventilation when possible.
weight and rolling resistance.
Frequent cleaning helps your fuel
mileage and reduces the chance of
corrosion.

Drive moderately. Rapid


acceleration, abrupt cornering and
hard braking use more fuel.

Always drive in the highest gear


possible.

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Controls Near the Steering Wheel

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS SHIFT LEVER (A/T)


(P.62) (P.61) (P.127)

REAR WINDOW
DEFOGGER
(P.63)

HORN*
CRUISE CONTROL
MASTER SWITCH
(P.107)
STEERING WHEEL ADJUSTMENT HAZARD WARNING BUTTON
(P.64) (P.63)
A/T model is shown.

*: To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.
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Wipers and Washers

Windshield Wiper Push the right lever up or down to Rear Window Wiper and Washer
select a position.

MIST − The wipers run at high


speed until you release the lever.

OFF − The wipers are not activated.

INT − The wipers operate every


few seconds.

LO − The wipers run at low speed.

HI − The wipers run at high speed.


1. MIST 1. Rotate clockwise to turn the rear
2. OFF Windshield Washer − Pull the window wiper ON.
3. INT − Intermittent wiper control lever toward you and
4. LO − Low hold it. The washers spray until 2. Hold past ON to turn the window
5. HI − High you release the lever. The wipers wiper on and the window washer
6. Windshield Washers run at low speed, then complete to spray.
one more sweep after you release
the lever. 3. OFF

4. Rotate counterclockwise to spray


the window washer only.

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Turn Signal and Headlights

Turn Signal − Push down on the High Beams − To turn on, push
left lever to signal a left turn and up the lever forward until you hear a
to signal a right turn. To signal a lane click. The blue high beam indicator
change, push lightly on the lever and will light (see page 56 ). Pull it back
hold it. The lever will return to to return to low beams.
center when you release it or
complete a turn. To flash the high beams, pull the
lever back lightly, then release it.
Headlights On − Rotating the The high beams will stay on as long
switch on the left lever to the as you hold the lever back.
‘‘ ’’ position turns on the parking
lights, taillights, instrument panel Daytime Running Lights
lights, side-marker lights, and rear Canadian models only
1. Turn Signal license plate lights. Turning the With the headlight switch off, the
2. OFF switch to the ‘‘ ’’ position turns high beam headlights come on with
3. Parking and indicator lights on the headlights. If you leave the reduced brightness when you turn
4. Headlights on lights on with the key removed from the ignition switch to ON (II) and
5. High beams the ignition switch, you will hear a release the parking brake. They
6. Flash high beams reminder tone when you open the remain on until you turn the ignition
driver’s door. off, even if you set the parking brake.
The headlights revert to normal
operation when you turn the switch
to the ‘‘ ’’ position.

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Instrument Panel Brightness, Hazard Warning Button, Rear Window Defogger

Instrument Panel Brightness Hazard Warning Button Rear Window Defogger

Push the knob in the speedometer Push the button next to the shift The rear window defogger will clear
repeatedly to adjust the brightness lever to turn on the hazard warning fog, frost, and thin ice from the
of the instrument panel lights. There lights (four-way flashers). This window. Push the defogger button to
are six brightness levels. A segment causes all four outside turn signals turn it on and off. The indicator in
display shows the current brightness and both turn indicators in the the button lights to show the
level. instrument panel to flash. Use the defogger is on. If you do not turn it
hazard warning lights if you need to off, the defogger will shut itself off
park in a dangerous area near heavy after about 15 minutes. It also shuts
traffic, or if your vehicle is disabled. off when you turn off the ignition.
You have to turn it on again when
you restart the vehicle.
CONTINUED

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Playing the Radio

U.S. LX and Canadian DX Models EX Models

PWR/VOL KNOB
STEREO INDICATOR

FM BUTTON AM BUTTON SEEK BUTTONS


AM/FM BUTTON STEREO INDICATOR SCAN BUTTON
AUTO SELECT
BUTTON
SCAN INDICATOR

PWR/VOL TUNE KNOB


KNOB
SCAN BUTTON PRESET BUTTONS MODE/TUNE
SEEK BAR PRESET BUTTONS AUTO SELECT KNOB
BUTTON

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Playing the Radio

To Play the Radio TUNE − Use the TUNE knob to plays a station you want to listen to,
The ignition switch must be in tune the radio to a desired frequency. press the SCAN button again.
ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II). Turn Turn the knob right to tune to a
the system on by pushing the PWR/ higher frequency, or left to tune to a Preset − Each preset button can
VOL knob or the AM or FM button. lower frequency. store one frequency on AM, and two
Adjust the volume by turning the frequencies on FM.
same knob. SEEK − The SEEK function
searches up and down from the 1. Select the desired band, AM or
The band and frequency that the current frequency to find a station FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store
radio was last tuned to is displayed. with a strong signal. To activate it, two frequencies with each preset
To change bands, press the AM or press either ( or ), then button.
FM button. On the FM band, ST will release it. 2. Use the TUNE, SEEK, or SCAN
be displayed if the station is broad- function to tune the radio to a
casting in stereo. Stereo SCAN − The SCAN function desired station.
reproduction on AM is not available. samples all stations with strong 3. Pick a preset button, and hold it
signals on the selected band. To until you hear a beep.
To Select a Station activate it, press the SCAN button, 4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total
You can use these five methods to then release it. You will see SCAN in of six stations on AM and twelve
find radio stations on a selected the display. The system will scan for stations on FM.
band: TUNE, SEEK, SCAN, the a station with a strong signal. When
preset buttons, and AUTO SELECT . it finds one, it will stop and play that The preset frequencies will be lost if
station for about five seconds. your vehicle’s battery goes dead, is
disconnected, or the radio fuse is
If you do nothing, the system will removed.
then scan for the next strong station
and play it for five seconds. When it CONTINUED

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Playing the Radio

AUTO SELECT − If you are To turn off Auto Select, press the Balance/Fader − These two
traveling far from home and can no A. SEL button. This restores the modes adjust the strength of the
longer receive your preset stations, presets you originally set. sound coming from each speaker.
you can use the Auto Select feature BAL adjusts the side-to-side strength,
to find stations in the local area. Adjusting the Sound while FAD adjusts the front-to-back
If equipped strength.
Press the A. SEL Button. ‘‘A.SEL’’ Press the MODE knob repeatedly to
flashes in the display, and the system display the Bass (BAS), Treble Treble/Bass/Sub-Woofer − Use
goes into scan mode for several (TRE), Balance (BAL), Fader (FAD), the TRE/BAS/SUB-W modes to
seconds. It stores the frequencies of and Sub-Woofer (SUB-W) settings. adjust the tone to your liking.
six AM, and twelve FM stations in
the preset buttons. Each mode is shown in the display as
it changes. Turn the MODE knob to
You will see a ‘‘0’’ displayed after adjust the setting to your liking.
pressing a preset button if Auto When the level reaches the center,
Select cannot find a strong station you will see ‘‘C’’ in the display. The
for every preset button. system will automatically return the
display to the selected audio mode
If you do not like the stations Auto about five seconds after you stop
Select has stored, you can store adjusting a mode.
other frequencies on the preset
buttons. Use the TUNE, SEEK, or
SCAN functions to find stations, then
store them in the preset buttons as
described.

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Radio Reception

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,
nearby large objects, and atmos-
AM band: pheric conditions.
530 to 1,710 kilohertz
FM band: A radio station’s signal gets weaker
87.7 to 107.9 megahertz as you get farther away from its
transmitter. If you are listening to an
Radio stations on the AM band are AM station, you will notice the sound
assigned frequencies at least ten volume becoming weaker, and the
kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550). station drifting in and out. If you are Driving very near the transmitter of
Stations on the FM band are listening to an FM station, you will a station that is broadcasting on a
assigned frequencies at least 0.2 see the stereo indicator flickering off frequency close to the frequency of
megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3). and on as the signal weakens. the station you are listening to can
Eventually, the stereo indicator will also affect your radio’s reception.
Stations must use these exact go off and the sound will fade You may temporarily hear both
frequencies. It is fairly common for completely as you get out of range of stations, or hear only the station you
stations to round-off the frequency in the station’s signal. are close to.
their advertising, so your radio could
display a frequency of 100.9 even
though the announcer may identify
the station as ‘‘FM101.’’
CONTINUED

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Radio Reception

As required by the FCC:


Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.

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. You may be able to
signal from the station’s transmitter, receive a distant radio station one
and the deflected signal. This causes day and not receive it the next day
the sound to distort or flutter. This is because of a change in conditions.
a main cause of poor radio reception
in city driving. Electrical interference from passing
vehicles and stationary sources can
cause temporary reception problems.

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Playing a CD

U.S. LX and Canadian DX Models EX Models

EJECT BUTTON

CD SLOT RANDOM INDICATOR


CD BUTTON CD SLOT EJECT BUTTON
CD BUTTON

REPEAT INDICATOR

PWR/VOL RANDOM INDICATOR


KNOB
RANDOM BUTTON SKIP BUTTONS
SEEK/SKIP BAR RANDOM BUTTON
PWR/VOL KNOB

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Playing a CD

To Play a CD a track, press and release the RPT is playing, either with the PWR/VOL
With the ignition in the button. You will see RPT in the knob or by turning off the ignition,
ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position, display. Press the RPT button again the CD will stay in the drive. When
insert a CD into the CD slot. The to turn it off. you turn the system back on, the CD
drive will pull the CD in the rest of will begin playing where it left off.
the way and begin to play it. You RANDOM − This feature plays the
operate the CD player with the same tracks in random order. To activate Operating the Optional CD
controls used for the radio. The Random Play, press and release the Changer
number of the track playing is shown A. SEL/RDM button. You will see A CD changer is available for your
in the display. The system will RDM in the display. This continues vehicle. It holds up to six CDs. You
continuously play a CD until you until you press the A. SEL/RDM operate the CD changer with the
change modes. button again. same controls used for the in-dash
CD player.
To Change Tracks (SKIP) To Stop Playing a CD Load the desired CDs in the
Each time you press and release Press the eject button ( ) to magazine, and load the magazine in
, the player skips forward to remove the CD. If you eject the CD, the changer according to the
the beginning of the next track. but do not remove it from the slot, instructions that came with the unit.
Press and release to skip the system will automatically reload To select the CD changer, press the
backward to the beginning of the the CD after 15 seconds and put it in CD button. The CD and track
previous track. pause mode. To begin playing, press numbers will be displayed. To select
the CD button. a different CD, use the preset 5
To move rapidly within a track, press Press the AM/FM button to switch (DISC −) or preset 6 (DISC +)
and hold the or . You will to the radio while a CD is playing. button. If you select an empty slot in
see CUE or REW in the display. Press the CD button to play the CD. the magazine, the changer will, after
finding that slot empty, try to load
REPEAT − To continuously replay If you turn the system off while a CD the CD in the next slot.

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Radio Theft Protection

On EX models If your vehicle’s battery is discon- If the code card is lost, a Honda
Your vehicle’s audio system will nected or goes dead, the audio dealer can access your code with
disable itself if it is disconnected system will disable itself. If this your radio’s serial number. To
from electrical power for any reason. happens, you will see ‘‘COdE’’ in the access the serial number, turn the
To make it work again, you must frequency display the next time you radio on. It must display ‘‘COdE’’,
enter a specific five-digit code in the turn on the system. Use the preset then turn the radio off. Push the
preset buttons. Because there are buttons to enter the five-digit code. preset 1 and preset 6 at the same
hundreds of number combinations The code is located on the radio code time, then quickly release.
possible from five-digits, making the card included in your Owner’s
system work without knowing the Manual kit. When it is entered You will have to store your favorite
exact code is nearly impossible. correctly, the radio will start playing. stations in the Preset buttons after
the system begins working. Your
You should have received a card that If you make a mistake entering the original settings were lost when the
lists your audio system code number code, do not start over; complete the power was disconnected.
and serial number. It is best to store five-digit sequence, then enter the
this card in a safe place at home. In correct code. You have ten tries to
addition, you should write the audio enter the correct code. If you are
system’s serial number in this unsuccessful in ten attempts, you
Owner’s Manual. must then leave the system on for 1
hour before trying again.
If you should happen to lose the card,
you must obtain the code number
from a Honda dealer. To do this, you
will need the system’s serial number.

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Setting the Clock

If your vehicle’s battery is On EX models


disconnected or goes dead, you will TIME DISPLAY CLOCK
need to set the clock. BUTTON TIME DISPLAY CLOCK
BUTTON
U.S. LX and Canadian DX models
To set the hour, press the H button
while pressing the CLOCK (SCAN/
RPT) button, and hold until the hour
advances to the desired time.
Change the minutes by pressing the H BUTTON R BUTTON
M button while pressing the CLOCK
(SCAN/RPT) button until the M BUTTON
H BUTTON R BUTTON
minute numbers advance to the M BUTTON
desired time. You can use the R button to quickly
set the time to the nearest hour. Press and hold the CLOCK button
Press the R button while pressing until the number flash and you hear
the CLOCK button. If the displayed a beep. Change the hours by
time is before the half hour, pressing pressing the H button until the
R sets the clock back to the previous numbers advance to the desired time.
hour. If the displayed time is after Change the minutes by pressing the
the half hour, pressing R sets the M button until the numbers advance
clock forward to the beginning of the to the desired time.
next hour.
For example:
1:06 will reset to 1:00
1:53 will reset to 2:00 CONTINUED

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Setting the Clock, Auxiliary Input Jack

You can quickly set the time to the Auxiliary Input Jack Your audio system will accept
nearest hour. If the displayed time is On EX models auxiliary inputs from a portable
before the half hour, press the R cassette player, CD changer, MP3
(RESET) button to set the clock player, etc. To use the jack, turn
back to the previous hour. If the down the volume of the audio unit
displayed time is after the half hour, and the portable unit. Then pivot the
pressing R sets the clock forward to cover up, plug in a mini-jack cable
the beginning of the next hour. between the portable unit and the
jack, and press the AUX button on
For example: the audio unit.
1:06 will reset to 1:00
1:53 will reset to 2:00

When you are finished, press the


CLOCK button again.
An auxiliary input jack is located on
the dashboard next to the accessory
power socket.

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Cruise Control

On EX models Using the Cruise Control


Cruise control allows you to maintain
a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) RES/ACCEL
without keeping your foot on the
accelerator pedal. It should be used
for cruising on straight, open CA
NC
highways. It is not recommended for EL

city driving, winding roads, slippery


roads, heavy rain, or bad weather.
CANCEL
BUTTON

Improper use of the cruise SET/DECEL


control can lead to a crash.
1. Push in the Cruise Control Master Cruise control may not hold the set
Use the cruise control only Switch. The indicator in the switch speed when you are going up and
when traveling on open will come on. down hills. If your speed increases
highways in good weather. 2. Accelerate to the desired cruising going down a hill, use the brakes to
speed above 25 mph (40 km/h). slow down. This will cancel the
3. Press and release the SET/ cruise control. To resume the set
DECEL button on the steering speed, press the RES/ACCEL button.
wheel. The CRUISE CONTROL The CRUISE CONTROL light on the
light on the instrument panel instrument panel will come back on.
comes on to show the system is
now activated.

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Cruise Control

Changing the Set Speed To slow down in very small Cancelling the Cruise Control
You can increase the set cruising amounts, tap the SET/DECEL You can cancel the cruise control in
speed in any of these ways: button. Each time you do this, any of these ways:
your vehicle will slow down about
Press and hold the RES/ACCEL 1 mph (1.6 km/h). Tap the brake or clutch pedal.
button. When you reach the Press the CANCEL button on the
desired cruising speed, release the Tap the brake or clutch pedal steering wheel.
button. lightly with your foot. The Press the Cruise Control Master
CRUISE CONTROL light on the Switch.
To increase your speed in very instrument panel will go out.
small amounts, tap the RES/ When the vehicle slows to the Resuming the Set Speed
ACCEL button. Each time you do desired speed, press the SET/ When you push the CANCEL button,
this, your vehicle will speed up DECEL button. or tap the brake or clutch pedal, the
about 1 mph (1.6 km/h). system remembers the previously-
Even with the cruise control turned set cruising speed. To return to that
Push on the accelerator pedal. on, you can still use the accelerator speed, accelerate to above 25 mph
Accelerate to the desired cruising pedal to speed up for passing. After (40 km/h) and then press and
speed and press the SET/DECEL completing the pass, take your foot release the RES/ACCEL button. The
button. off the accelerator pedal. The vehicle CRUISE CONTROL light comes on.
will return to the set cruising speed. The vehicle will accelerate to the
You can decrease the set cruising same cruising speed as before.
speed in any of these ways: Resting your foot on the brake or
clutch pedal will cause the cruise Pressing the Cruise Control Master
Press and hold the SET/DECEL control to cancel. Switch turns the system off and
button. Release the button when erases the previous cruising speed.
you reach the desired speed.

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Automatic Transmission

Shift Lever Position Indicators Shifting To shift from: Do this:


P to R Press the brake pedal and
press the release button.
R to N
N to D Press the release button.
D to 2
2 to 1
1 to 2
2 to D
D to N Move the lever.
N to R
R to P

SHIFT LEVER
Park (P) − This position mechani-
These indicators on the instrument To shift from any position, press cally locks the transmission. Use
panel show which position the shift firmly on the brake pedal, push the Park whenever you are turning off or
lever is in. release button, and pull the lever starting the engine. To shift out of
toward you. You cannot shift out of Park, you must press on the brake
The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a Park when the ignition switch is in pedal and have your foot off the
few seconds when you turn the LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I). accelerator pedal.
ignition switch to ON (II). If it
flashes while driving (in any shift If you have done all of the above and
position), it indicates a possible still cannot move the lever out of
problem in the transmission. Park, see Shift Lock Release on
page 130 .
CONTINUED

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Automatic Transmission

You must also press the release Your vehicle has a reverse lockout so If there is a problem in the reverse
button to shift into Park. To avoid you cannot accidentally shift to lockout system, or your vehicle’s
transmission damage, come to a Reverse when the vehicle speed battery is disconnected or goes dead,
complete stop before shifting into exceeds 5 mph (8 km/h). you cannot shift to Reverse. (Refer
Park. The shift lever must be in Park to Shift Lock Release on page 130 ).
before you can remove the key from If you cannot shift to Reverse when
the ignition switch. the vehicle is stopped, press the Neutral (N) − Use Neutral if you
brake pedal and slowly shift to need to restart a stalled engine, or if
Reverse (R) − Press the brake Neutral. Then press the release it is necessary to stop briefly with
pedal and press the release button to button, and shift to reverse. the engine idling. Shift to the Park
shift from Park to Reverse. To shift position if you need to leave your
from Reverse to Neutral, come to a vehicle for any reason.
complete stop and then shift.
Drive (D) − Use this position for
your normal driving. The
transmission automatically selects a
suitable gear for the vehicle speed
and acceleration. You may notice the
transmission shifting up at higher
speeds when the engine is cold. This
helps the engine warm up faster.

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Automatic Transmission

Overdrive (O/D) Mode When the overdrive is off, the First (1) − To shift from Second to
transmission selects only the first First, press the release button. This
three gears. Use it to provide engine position locks the transmission in
braking when going down a steep hill, First gear. By upshifting and
or keep the transmission from downshifting through 1, 2, and D,
cycling between third and fourth you can operate this transmission
gear in stop-and -go driving. much like a manual transmission
without a clutch pedal.
Second (2) − To shift to Second
press the release button. This If you shift into First position when
position locks the transmission in the vehicle speed is above 31 mph
second gear. It does not downshift to (50 km/h), the transmission shifts
first gear when you come to a stop. into Second gear first to avoid
sudden engine braking.
The overdrive (O/D) is on whenever Use Second gear:
you turn the ignition to ON (II). Engine Speed Limiter
Pressing the O/D switch on the end For more power when climbing. If you exceed the maximum speed
of the shift lever to turn it off; the To increase engine braking when for the gear you are in, the engine
O/D OFF indicator comes on. going down steep hills. speed will enter into the tachometer’s
For starting out on a slippery red zone. If this occurs, you may feel
Overdrive can be turned on or off surface or in deep snow. the engine cut in and out. This is
only when the ignition switch is in To help reduce wheel spin. caused by a limiter in the engine’s
the ON (II) position and the shift When driving downhill with a computer controls. The engine will
lever is in any position. trailer. run normally when you reduce the
RPM below the red zone.

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Automatic Transmission

Shift Lock Release COVER


Do this if pushing on the brake pedal
and pulling the shift lever does not
shift the transmission out of Park:

1. Set the Parking brake.

2. Make sure the ignition switch is in


the LOCK (0) position.

To release the reverse lockout,


make sure the ignition switch is in SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT
the ACCESSORY(I) position.
4. Insert the flathead screwdriver 6. Remove the screwdriver from the
3. Put a cloth on the edge of the shift into the shift lock release slot. shift lock release slot, then replace
lock release slot cover next to the the cover. Make sure the notch on
shift lever. Using a flathead 5. Push down on the screwdriver the cover is on the right side.
screwdriver, carefully pry on the while you press the release button Press the brake pedal and restart
edge of the cover to remove it. and move the shift lever out of the engine.
Park to Neutral.
If you need to use the shift lock
To release the reverse lockout, release, it means your vehicle is
move the shift lever from Neutral developing a problem. Have it
to Reverse, then to Park. checked by a Honda dealer.

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Parking Tips

Always use the parking brake when Parking Tips If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn
you park your vehicle. Make sure Make sure the windows are closed. the front wheels away from the
the parking brake is set firmly or curb.
your vehicle may roll if it is parked Turn off the lights.
on an incline. If the vehicle is facing downhill,
Place any packages, valuables, etc. turn the front wheels toward the
If your vehicle has an automatic in the cargo area, or take them curb.
transmission, set the parking brake with you.
before you put the transmission in Make sure the parking brake is
Park. This keeps the vehicle from Lock the doors and the hatch with fully released before driving away.
moving and putting pressure on the the key. Driving with the parking brake
parking mechanism in the partially set can overheat or
transmission. Never park over dry leaves, tall damage the rear brakes.
grass, or other flammable
materials. The hot three way
catalytic converter could cause
these materials to catch on fire.

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Braking System

Your Honda is equipped with disc Constant application of the brakes Braking System Design
brakes at all four wheels. A power when going down a long hill builds The hydraulic system that operates
assist helps reduce the effort needed up heat and reduces their effective- the brakes has two separate circuits.
on the brake pedal. The ABS (on ness. Use the engine to assist the Each circuit works diagonally across
vehicles equipped with ABS) helps brakes by taking your foot off the the vehicle (the left-front brake is
you retain steering control when accelerator and downshifting to a connected with the right-rear brake,
braking very hard. lower gear. etc.). If one circuit should develop a
problem, you will still have braking
Resting your foot on the pedal keeps Check your brakes after driving at two wheels.
the brakes applied lightly, builds up through deep water. Apply the
heat, and reduces their effectiveness. brakes moderately to see if they feel
It also keeps your brake lights on all normal. If not, apply them gently and
the time, confusing drivers behind frequently until they do. Be extra
you. cautious and alert in your driving.

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Rear Window Defogger, Steering Wheel Adjustment

Make sure the rear window is clear 3. Push the lever up to lock the
and you have good visibility before steering wheel in that position.
starting to drive.
4. Make sure you have securely
The defogger wires on the inside of locked the steering wheel in place
the rear window can be accidentally by trying to move it up and down.
damaged. When cleaning the glass,
always wipe side-to-side.

Steering Wheel Adjustment


See page 16 for important safety
information about how to properly
position the steering wheel.
Make any steering wheel adjustment 1. Push the lever under the left side
before you start driving. of the steering column all the way
down.

2. Move the steering wheel so it


Adjusting the steering wheel points to your chest, not toward
position while driving may your face. Make sure you can see
cause you to lose control of the the instrument panel gauges and
vehicle and be seriously injured indicators.
in a crash.

Adjust the steering wheel only


when the vehicle is stopped.

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Keys and Locks

KEY MASTER VALET These keys contain electronic Some models also come with two
NUMBER KEYS KEY circuits that are activated by the remote transmitters; see page 67 for
TAG (Black) (Gray) Immobilizer System. They will not an explanation of their operation.
work to start the engine if the
circuits are damaged.

Protect the keys from direct


sunlight, high temperature, and
high humidity.

Do not drop the keys or set heavy


objects on them.

The master key fits all the locks on Keep the keys away from liquids.
your vehicle. The valet key works If they get wet, dry them
only in the ignition and the door immediately with a soft cloth.
locks. You can keep the glove box
and hatch locked when you leave The keys do not contain batteries.
your vehicle and the valet key at a Do not try to take them apart.
parking facility.

You should have received a key


number tag with your keys. You will
need this number if you ever have to
get a lost key replaced. Use only
Honda-approved key blanks.

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Immobilizer System

The Immobilizer System protects If the system repeatedly does not As required by the FCC:
your vehicle from theft. If an recognize the coding of your key, This device complies with Part 15 of the
improperly-coded key (or other contact your Honda dealer. FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
device) is used, the engine’s fuel following two conditions: (1) This device
system is disabled. Do not attempt to alter this system may not cause harmful interference, and
or add other devices to it. Electrical (2) this device must accept any
When you turn the ignition switch to problems could result that may make interference received, including
ON (II), the Immobilizer System your vehicle undriveable. interference that may cause undesired
indicator should come on for a few operation.
seconds, then go out. If the indicator If you have lost your key and cannot
starts to blink, it means the system start your engine, contact a Honda Changes or modifications not expressly
does not recognize the coding of the dealer. approved by the party responsible for
key. Turn the ignition switch to compliance could void the user’s
LOCK (0), remove the key, reinsert authority to operate the equipment.
it, and turn the switch to ON (II)
again. This device complies with Industry
Canada Standard RSS-210.
The system may not recognize your Operation is subject to the following two
key’s coding if another immobilizer conditions: (1) this device may not cause
key or other metal object is near the interference, and (2) this device must
ignition switch when you insert the accept any interference that may cause
key. undesired operation of the device.

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Remote Transmitter

UNLOCK − Press this button once Remote Transmitter Care


LED LOCK to unlock the driver’s door. Push it Avoid dropping or throwing the
BUTTON twice to unlock the passenger’s door transmitter.
and the hatch. If you do not open Protect the transmitter from
either door or the hatch within 30 extreme temperature.
UNLOCK seconds, they will automatically Do not immerse the transmitter in
BUTTON relock. any liquid.
If you lose a transmitter, the
PANIC − Press this button for replacement needs to be
PANIC about one second to attract attention; reprogrammed by a Honda dealer.
BUTTON the horn will sound and the exterior
lights will flash for about 30 seconds.
To cancel panic mode, press any
On EX models other button on the remote
LOCK − Press this button once to transmitter or turn the ignition
lock both doors and hatch. Some switch to ON (II).
exterior lights will flash. When you
push LOCK twice within 5 seconds,
you will hear a beep to verify that the
doors are locked. You cannot lock it
if any door is not fully closed or key
is in the ignition switch.

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Remote Transmitter

Replacing the Transmitter To replace the battery, remove the As required by the FCC:
Battery round cover on the back of the This device complies with Part 15 of the
transmitter by turning it FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
ROUND counterclockwise with a coin. Insert following two conditions: (1) This device
COVER a new battery with the + side facing may not cause harmful interference, and
up. Align the ▽ mark on the (2) this device must accept any
CUSHION cover with the ◎ mark on the interference received, including
RING transmitter. Set the cover in place interference that may cause undesired
and turn it clockwise. operation.
BATTERY
Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.

If it takes several pushes on the This device complies with Industry


button to lock or unlock the doors Canada Standard RSS-210.
and the hatch, replace the battery as Operation is subject to the following two
soon as possible. conditions: (1) this device may not cause
Battery type: CR2025 interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.

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Ignition Switch

LOCK (0) − You can insert or START (III) − Use this position
remove the key only in this position. only to start the engine. The switch
To turn the key, the shift lever must returns to ON (II) when you let go of
be in Park, and you must push the the key.
key in slightly.
You will hear a reminder beeper if
If the front wheels are turned, the you leave the key in the ignition
anti-theft lock may make it difficult switch in the LOCK (0) or
to turn the key. Firmly turn the ACCESSORY (I) position and open
steering wheel to the left or right as the driver’s door. Remove the key to
you turn the key. turn off the beeper. The shift lever
must be in Park before you can
ACCESSORY (I) − You can remove the key from the ignition
The ignition switch has four operate the audio system and the switch.
positions: LOCK (0), ACCESSORY accessory power sockets in this
(I), ON (II), and START (III). position.

ON (II) − This is the normal key Removing the key from the
position when driving. Several of the ignition switch while driving
lights on the instrument panel come locks the steering. This can
on as a test when you turn the cause you to lose control.
ignition switch from ACCESSORY
(I) to ON (II). Remove the key from the
ignition switch only when
parked.

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Protecting Adults and Teens

Introduction 1.Close and Lock the Doors 2.Adjust the Front Seats
The rest of this section gives more After everyone has entered the
detailed information about how you vehicle, be sure the doors are closed
can maximize your safety. and locked.

Remember however, that no safety Locking the doors reduces the


system can prevent all injures or chance of someone being thrown out
deaths that can occur in severe of the vehicle during a crash, and it
crashes, even where seat belts are helps prevent passengers from
properly worn and the airbags deploy. accidentally opening a door and
falling out.
The following pages provide
instructions on how to properly Locking the doors also helps prevent
protect the driver, adult passengers an outsider from unexpectedly
and teenage children who are large opening a door when you come to a Adjust the driver’s seat as far to the
enough and mature enough to ride in stop. rear as possible while allowing you to
the front seat. maintain full control of the vehicle.
See page 70 for how to lock the Have a front passenger adjust their
See page 34 for important guidelines doors. seat as far to the rear as possible.
on how to properly protect infants,
small children, and larger children If you sit too close to the steering
who ride in your vehicle. wheel or dashboard, you can be
seriously injured by an inflating front
airbag, or by striking the steering
wheel or dashboard.
CONTINUED

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Protecting Adults and Teens

The National Highway Traffic Safety Once your seat is adjusted correctly,
Administration and Transport rock it back and forth to make sure
Canada recommend that drivers Sitting too close to a front the seat is locked into position. See
allow at least 10 inches (25 cm) airbag can result in serious page 73 for how to adjust the front
between the center of the steering injury or death if the front seats.
wheel and the chest. airbags inflate.

If you cannot get far enough away Always sit as far back from the
from the steering wheel and still front airbags as possible.
reach the controls, we recommend
that you investigate whether some
type of adaptive equipment may help.

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Protecting Adults and Teens

3.Adjust the Seat-Backs Reclining a seat-back so that the


shoulder part of the belt no longer
rests against the occupant’s chest Reclining the seat-back too far
reduces the protective capability of can result in serious injury or
the belt. It also increases the chance death in a crash.
of sliding under the belt in a crash
and being seriously injured. The Adjust the seat-back to an
farther a seat-back is reclined, the upright position, and sit well
greater the risk of injury. back in the seat.

See page 73 for how to adjust the


seat-backs.

Adjust the driver’s seat-back to a


comfortable, upright position,
leaving ample space between your
chest and the airbag cover in the
center of the steering wheel.

Passengers with adjustable seat-


backs should also adjust their seat-
back to a comfortable, upright
position.

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Protecting Adults and Teens

4.Adjust the Head Restraints 5.Fasten and Position the Lap/


Shoulder Seat Belts
Improperly positioning head Insert the latch plate into the buckle,
restraints reduces their then tug on the belt to make sure the
effectiveness and you can be belt is securely latched. Also check
seriously injured in a crash. that the belt is not twisted, because a
twisted belt can cause serious
Make sure head restraints are injuries in a crash.
in place and positioned properly
before driving. Position the lap part of the belt as
low as possible across your hips,
then pull up on the shoulder part of
Properly adjusted head restraints the belt so the lap part fits snugly.
will help protect occupants from This lets your strong pelvic bones
Adjust the driver’s head restraint so whiplash and other crash injuries. take the force of a crash and reduces
the back of your head rests against the chance of internal injuries.
the center of the restraint. See page 75 for how to adjust the
head restraints.
Have passengers with adjustable
restraints adjust their restraints
properly as well. Taller persons
should adjust their restraint as high
as possible.

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Protecting Adults and Teens

If the seat belt touches or crosses RELEASE BUTTONS


your neck, or if it crosses your arm
instead of your shoulder, you need to
adjust the seat belt anchor height.

Improperly positioning the seat


belts can cause serious injury
or death in a crash.

Make sure all seat belts are


properly positioned before
If necessary, pull up on the belt again driving. To adjust the height of a front seat
to remove any slack, then check that belt anchor, squeeze the release
the belt rests across the center of button and slide the anchor up or
your chest and over your shoulder. down as needed (the anchor has four
This spreads the forces of a crash positions).
over the strongest bones in your
upper body. Never place the shoulder portion of a
lap/shoulder belt under your arm or
behind your back. This could cause
very serious injuries in a crash.

CONTINUED

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Protecting Adults and Teens

If a seat belt does not seem to work 6.Adjust the Steering Wheel 7.Maintain a Proper Sitting
as it should, it may not protect the Position
occupant in a crash. After all occupants have adjusted
their seats and put on seat belts, it is
No one should sit in a seat with an very important that they continue to
inoperative seat belt. Using a seat sit upright, well back in their seats,
belt that is not working properly can with their feet on the floor, until the
result in serious injury or death. vehicle is parked and the engine is
Have your Honda dealer check the off.
belt as soon as possible. Sitting improperly can increase the
chance of injury during a crash. For
See page 19 for additional example, if an occupant slouches,
information about your seat belts lies down, turns sideways, sits
and how to take care of them. forward, leans forward or sideways,
Adjust the steering wheel, if needed, or puts one or both feet up, the
so that the wheel points toward your chance of injury during a crash is
chest, not toward your face. This greatly increased.
provides optimal protection from the
front airbag.

See page 64 for how to adjust the


steering wheel.

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Protecting Adults and Teens

In addition, an occupant who is out of Advice for Pregnant Women When driving, remember to sit
position in the front seat can be upright and adjust the seat as far
seriously or fatally injured by back as possible while allowing full
striking interior parts of the vehicle, control of the vehicle. When riding
or being struck by an inflating front as a front passenger, adjust the seat
airbag. as far back as possible.

This will reduce the risk of injuries


to both you and your unborn child
Sitting improperly or out of that can be caused by a crash or an
position can result in serious inflating front airbag.
injury or death.
Each time you have a check-up, ask
Always sit upright, well back in your doctor if it’s okay for you to
the seat, with your feet on the If you are pregnant, the best way to drive.
floor. protect yourself and your unborn
child when driving or riding in a
vehicle is to always wear a seat belt,
and keep the lap part of the belt as
low as possible across the hips.

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Protecting Adults and Teens

Additional Safety Precautions Do not put any accessories on seat Do not attach or place objects on
Never let passengers ride in the belts. Devices intended to improve the front airbag covers. Objects on
cargo area or on top of a folded- occupant comfort or reposition the the covers marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG’’
down back seat. All passengers shoulder part of a seat belt can could interfere with the proper
must sit in locked, upright seats severely compromise the operation of the airbags. Or, if the
and be properly restrained by seat protective capability of the seat airbags inflate, the objects could
belts. belt and increase the chance of be propelled inside the vehicle and
serious injury in a crash. hurt someone if the airbags inflate.
Passengers should not stand up or
change seats while the vehicle is Do not place hard or sharp objects On models with side airbags, do
moving. A passenger who is not between yourself and a front not attach hard objects on or near
wearing a seat belt during a crash airbag. Carrying hard or sharp a front door. If a side airbag
or emergency stop can be thrown objects on your lap, or driving with inflates, a cup holder or other hard
against the inside of the vehicle, a pipe or other sharp objects in object attached on or near the
against other occupants, or out of your mouth, can result in injuries door could be propelled inside the
the vehicle. if your front airbag inflates. vehicle and hurt someone.

Two people should never use the Keep your hands and arms away
same seat belt. If they do, they from the airbag covers. If your
could be very seriously injured in a hands or arms are close to an
crash. airbag cover, they could be injured
if the front airbag inflates.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

Airbag System Components A sophisticated electronic system How Your Front Airbags Work
Your airbag system includes: that continually monitors and
records information about the
Two SRS (Supplemental Restraint sensors, the control unit, the
System) front airbags. The driver’s airbag activators, and driver and
airbag is stored in the center of front passenger seat belt use when
the steering wheel; the front the ignition is in the ON (II)
passenger’s airbag is stored in the position.
dashboard. Both are marked ‘‘SRS
AIRBAG.’’ An indicator on the instrument
panel that alerts you to a possible
On models equipped with side problem with your airbags,
airbags, one for the driver and one sensors, or seat belt tensioners
for a front passenger. The airbags (see page 26 ).
are stored in the outer edges of If you ever have a moderate to
the seat-backs. Both are marked On models equipped with side severe frontal collision, sensors will
‘‘SIDE AIRBAG’’ (see page 25 ). airbags, an indicator on the detect the vehicle’s rapid
dashboard that alerts you that the deceleration.
Automatic seat belt tensioners passenger’s side airbag has been
(see page 20 ). turned off (see page 27 ). If the rate of deceleration is high
enough, the control unit will instantly
Sensors that can detect a Emergency backup power in case inflate the driver’s and front
moderate to severe frontal impact your vehicle’s electrical system is passenger’s front airbags, at the time
or side impact in models equipped disconnected in a crash. and with the force needed.
with side airbags.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

During a frontal crash, your seat belt The total time for inflation and
restrains your lower body and torso, deflation is one-tenth of a second, so
and the airbag helps protect your fast that most occupants are not
head and chest. aware that the airbags deployed until
they see them lying in their laps.
Although both airbags normally
inflate within a split second of each After a crash, you may see what
other, it is possible for only one looks like smoke. This is actually
airbag to deploy. powder from the airbag’s surface.
Although the powder is not harmful,
This can happen if the severity of a people with respiratory problems
collision is at the margin, or may experience some temporary
threshold, that determines whether discomfort. If this occurs, get out of
or not the airbags will deploy. In After inflating, the front airbags the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do
such cases, the seat belt will provide immediately deflate, so they won’t so.
sufficient protection, and the interfere with the driver’s visibility,
supplemental protection offered by or the ability to steer or operate
the airbag would be minimal. other controls.

CONTINUED

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

Dual-Stage Airbags Dual-Threshold Airbags


Your front airbags are dual-stage Your front airbags are also dual-
airbags. This means they have two threshold airbags. Airbags with this
inflation stages that can be ignited feature have two deployment
sequentially or simultaneously, thresholds that depend on whether
depending on crash severity. or not the occupant is wearing a seat
belt.
In a more severe crash, both stages
will ignite simultaneously to provide It the occupant’s belt is not latched,
the quickest and greatest protection. the airbag will deploy at the same
threshold as a conventional airbag,
In a less severe crash, one stage will because the occupant would need
ignite first, then the second stage additional protection.
will ignite a split second later. This
provides longer airbag inflation time If the occupant’s belt is latched, the
with a little less force. airbag will inflate at a slightly higher
threshold, when the airbag would be
needed to supplement the protection
provided by the seat belt.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

How Your Side Airbags Work Only one airbag will deploy during a If the side airbag off indicator comes
Optional on EX models side impact. If the impact is on the on, have the passenger sit upright.
passenger’s side, the passenger’s Once the passenger is out of the
side airbag will deploy even if there deployment path of the side airbag,
is no passenger. the system will turn the airbag back
on and the indicator will go out
To get the best protection from the within a few seconds.
side airbags, occupants should wear
their seat belts and sit upright and A front seat passenger should not
well back in their seats. use a cushion or other object as a
backrest. It may prevent the cutoff
The passenger’s side airbag has a system from working properly.
cutoff system designed to turn off
the passenger’s side airbag if a child’s
head is in the airbag’s deployment
If you ever have a moderate to path (see page 27 ).
severe side impact, the sensors will
detect rapid deceleration and signal
the control unit to instantly inflate
either the driver’s or the passenger’s
side airbag.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

How the SRS Indicator Works If the indicator comes on at any


The SRS indicator alerts other time, or does not come on at all,
you to a potential problem you should have the system checked Ignoring the SRS indicator can
with your front airbags, side airbags, by your dealer. For example: result in serious injury or death
or front seat belt tensioners (see if the airbag systems or
page 55 ). If the SRS indicator does not come tensioners do not work properly.
on after you turn the ignition to
When you turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Have your vehicle checked by a
ON (II), this indicator will come on dealer as soon as possible if
briefly then go out. This tells you If the indicator stays on after the the SRS indicator alerts you to
that the system is working properly. engine starts. a possible problem.

If the indicator comes on or


flashes on and off while you drive.

If you see any of these indications,


airbags and seat belt tensioners may
not work when you need them.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

How the Side Airbag Off If a short adult leans sideways, or a Airbag Service
Indicator Works larger adult slouches and leans Your airbag systems are virtually
Optional on EX models sideways into the deployment path, maintenance-free, and there are no
This indicator alerts you the system may also shut off the side parts you can safely service.
that the passenger’s side airbag. However, you must have your
airbag has been automatically shut vehicle serviced if:
off. It does not mean there is a When you turn the ignition switch to
problem with your side airbags. ON (II), the indicator should light An airbag ever inflates. Any airbag
briefly and go out. If it doesn’t light, that has deployed must be
To reduce the risk of injury from an stays on, or comes on while driving replaced along with the control
inflating side airbag, your vehicle has without a passenger or object in the unit and other related parts. If a
an automatic cutoff system for the front seat, have the system checked. front airbag inflates, the seat belt
passenger’s side airbag. tensioners must also be replaced.
Do not try to remove or replace
Although Honda does not encourage any airbag by yourself. This must
children to ride in front, this system be done by a Honda dealer or a
is designed to shut off the side knowledgeable body shop.
airbag if a child leans sideways and
the child’s head is in the side airbag The SRS indicator alerts you to a
deployment path. problem. Take your vehicle to an
authorized Honda dealer as soon
as possible. If you ignore this
indication, your airbags may not
operate properly.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

Additional Safety Precautions Do not cover or replace front seat- Infants and small children must be
Do not attempt to deactivate your back covers without consulting a restrained in an approved child seat
airbags. Together, airbags and Honda dealer. Improperly that is properly secured to the
seat belts provide the best replacing or covering front seat- vehicle (see pages 34 − 43 ).
protection. back covers can prevent your side
airbags from inflating during a Larger children must be restrained
Do not tamper with airbag side impact. with a lap/shoulder belt and ride on
components or wiring for any a booster until the seat belt fits them
reason. Tampering could cause properly (see pages 44 − 47 ).
the airbags to deploy, possibly
causing very serious injury.

Do not expose the front seat-backs


to liquid. If water or another liquid
soaks into a seat-back, it can
prevent the side airbag cutoff
system from working properly.

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Protecting Children − General Guidelines

All Children Must Be Restrained


Each year, many children are injured
Children who are unrestrained or killed in vehicle crashes because
or improperly restrained can be they are either unrestrained or not
seriously injured or killed in a properly restrained. In fact, vehicle
crash. accidents are the number one cause
of death of children ages 12 and
Any child too small for a seat under.
belt should be properly
restrained in a child seat. A To reduce the number of child
larger child should be properly deaths and injuries, every state and
restrained with a seat belt and Canadian province requires that
use a booster if necessary. infants and children be properly
Children depend on adults to protect restrained when they ride in a
them. However, despite their best vehicle.
intentions, many adults do not know If you have children, or if you ever
how to properly protect child need to drive with a child in your
passengers. vehicle, be sure to read this section.
It begins with important general
guidelines, then presents special
information for infants, small
children, and larger children.

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Protecting Children − General Guidelines

All Children Should Sit in the The Passenger’s Front Airbag Small Children
Back Seat Poses Serious Risks Placing a forward-facing child seat in
According to accident statistics, Front airbags have been designed to the front seat of a vehicle equipped
children of all ages and sizes are help protect adults in a moderate to with a passenger’s front airbag can
safer when they are restrained in the severe frontal collision. To do this be hazardous. If the vehicle seat is
back seat. The National Highway the passenger’s front airbag is quite too far forward, or the child’s head is
Traffic Safety Administration and large and it can inflate with enough thrown forward during a collision, an
Transport Canada recommend that force to cause very serious injuries. inflating front airbag can strike the
all children age 12 and under be child with enough force to kill or
properly restrained in the back seat. Infants very seriously injure a small child.
Never put a rear-facing child seat in
Children who ride in back are less the front seat of a vehicle equipped Larger Children
likely to be injured by striking with a passenger’s front airbag. If Children who have outgrown child
interior vehicle parts during a the airbag inflates, it can hit the back seats are also at risk of being injured
collision or hard braking. Also, of the child seat with enough force or killed by an inflating passenger’s
children cannot be injured by an to kill or very seriously injure an front airbag. Whenever possible,
inflating airbag when they ride in the infant. larger children should sit in the back
back. seat, in a booster seat if needed, and
be properly restrained with a seat
belt (see page 44 for important
information about protecting larger
children).

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Protecting Children − General Guidelines

U.S. Models Canadian Models


To remind you of the passenger’s To remind you of the front airbag
front airbag hazards, and that hazards, your vehicle has warning
children must be properly restrained labels on the driver’s and front
in the back seat, your vehicle has passenger’s visors. Please read and
warning labels on the dashboard and follow the instructions on these
on the driver’s and front passenger’s labels.
visors. Please read and follow the
instructions on these labels.

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Protecting Children − General Guidelines

If You Must Drive with Several If a Child Requires Close Additional Safety Precautions
Children Attention Never hold an infant or child on
Your vehicle has two seating Many parents say they prefer to put your lap. If you are not wearing a
positions in the back seat where an infant or small child in the front seat belt in a crash, you could be
children can be properly restrained. passenger seat so they can watch the thrown forward and crush the
If you ever have to carry more child, or because the child requires child against the dashboard or a
children, and a child must ride in attention. seat-back. If you are wearing a
front: seat belt the child can be torn
Placing a child in the front seat from your arms and be seriously
Place the largest child in the front exposes the child to hazards from hurt or killed.
seat, provided the child is large the passenger’s front airbag, and
enough to wear the lap/shoulder paying close attention to a child Never put a seat belt over yourself
belt properly (see page 44 ). distracts the driver from the or a child. During a crash, the belt
important tasks of driving, placing could press deep into the child and
Move the vehicle seat as far to the both of you at risk. cause serious or fatal injuries.
rear as possible (see page 11 ).
If a child requires close physical Never let two children use the
Have the child sit upright and well attention or frequent visual contact, same seat belt. If they do, they
back in the seat (see page 30 ). we strongly recommend that another could be very seriously injured in a
adult ride with the child in the back crash.
Make sure the seat belt is properly seat. The back seat is far safer for a
positioned and secured (see page child than the front.
14 ).

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Protecting Children − General Guidelines

Do not leave children alone in a Lock all doors and the hatch when
vehicle. Leaving children without your vehicle is not in use. Children
adult supervision is illegal in most who play in vehicles can
states and Canadian provinces, accidentally get trapped inside the
and can be very hazardous. vehicle. Teach your children not to
play in or around vehicles.
For example, infants and small
children left in a vehicle on a hot Keep vehicle keys and remote
day can die from heatstroke. And transmitters (on some models) out
children left alone with the key in of the reach of children. Even very
the ignition can accidentally set young children learn how to
the vehicle in motion, possibly unlock vehicle doors, turn on the
injuring themselves or others. ignition, and open the tailgate or
hatch, which can lead to accidental
injury or death.

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Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt All seat belts have an emergency
Your seat belt system includes lap/ The lap/shoulder belt goes over locking retractor. In normal driving,
shoulder belts in all four seating your shoulder, across your chest, the retractor lets you move freely in
positions. The front seat belts are and across your hips. your seat while it keeps some
also equipped with automatic seat tension on the belt. During a collision
belt tensioners. To fasten the belt, insert the latch or sudden stop, the retractor
plate into the buckle, then tug on the automatically locks the belt to help
The seat belt system belt to make sure the buckle is restrain your body.
includes a light on the latched (see page 14 for how to
instrument panel to remind you and properly position the belt). The seat belts in all positions except
your passengers to fasten your belts. the driver’s have an additional
If you turn the ignition switch ON To unlock the belt, push the red locking mechanism that must be
(II) without fastening your seat belt, PRESS button on the buckle. Guide activated to secure a child seat (see
the indicator light will blink. The the belt across your body so that it page 41).
light will stay on until the driver’s retracts completely. After exiting the
seat belt is fastened. vehicle, be sure the belt is out of the If the shoulder part of the belt is
way and will not get closed in the pulled all the way out, the locking
door. mechanism will activate. The belt
will retract, but it will not allow the
passenger to move freely.

To deactivate the locking


mechanism, unlatch the buckle, and
let the seat belt fully retract. To
refasten the belt, pull it out only as
far as needed.

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Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners The tensioners are designed to


activate primarily in frontal collisions,
and they should activate in any
collision severe enough to cause
front-airbag inflation.

However, the tensioners can be


activated during a collision in which
the front airbags do not deploy. In
this case, the airbags would not be
needed, but the additional restraint
could be helpful.

When the tensioners are activated,


For added protection, the front seat the seat belts will remain tight until
belts are equipped with automatic they are unbuckled in the normal
seat belt tensioners. When activated, manner.
the tensioners immediately tighten
the belts to help hold the driver and
a front passenger in place.

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Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt Maintenance If a seat belt is worn during a crash,


For safety, you should check the it must be replaced by the dealer. A
condition of your seat belts regularly. belt that has been worn during a Not checking or maintaining
crash may not provide the same level seat belts can result in serious
Pull each belt out fully and look for of protection in a subsequent crash. injury or death if the seat belts
frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check do not work properly when
that the latches work smoothly and The dealer should also inspect the needed.
the belts retract easily. Any belt not anchors for damage and replace
in good condition or not working them if needed. If automatic seat belt Check your seat belts regularly
properly will not provide good tensioners activate during a crash, and have any problem
protection and should be replaced as they must be replaced. corrected as soon as possible.
soon as possible.
For information on how to clean your
Honda provides a lifetime warranty seat belts, see page 170 .
on seat belts for U.S. models. See
your Honda Warranty Information
booklet for details.

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Protecting Infants and Small Children

Protecting Infants An infant must be properly Two types of seats may be used: a
restrained in a rear-facing, reclining seat designed exclusively for infants,
child seat until the child reaches the or a convertible seat used in the rear-
seat maker’s weight or height limit facing, reclining mode.
for the seat, and the child is at least
one year old. Do not put a rear-facing child seat in
a forward-facing position. If placed
facing forward, an infant could be
very seriously injured during a
Placing a rear-facing child seat frontal collision.
in the front seat can result in
serious injury or death if the
passenger’s front airbag inflates.

Child Seat Type Always place a rear-facing child


Only a rear-facing child seat provides seat in the back seat, not the
proper support for a baby’s head, front.
neck, and back.

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Protecting Infants and Small Children

Child Seat Placement When properly installed, a rear-


In this vehicle, a rear-facing child facing child seat may prevent the
seat can be placed in any seating driver or a front passenger from
position in the back seat, but not in moving the seat as far back as
the front seat. recommended, or from locking the
seat-back in the desired position.
Never put a rear-facing child seat in
the front seat. If the passenger’s In either of these situations, we
front airbag inflates, it can hit the strongly recommend that you install
back of the child seat with enough the child seat directly behind the
force to kill or seriously injure an front passenger seat, move the front
infant. seat as far forward as needed, and
leave it unoccupied. Or you may wish
to get a smaller child seat that allows
you to safely carry a front passenger.

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Protecting Infants and Small Children

Protecting Small Children Of the different seats available, we If it is necessary to put a forward-
recommend those that have a five- facing child seat in the front, move
point harness system as shown. the vehicle seat as far to the rear as
possible, be sure the child seat is
We also recommend that a small firmly secured to the vehicle, and the
child stay in the child seat as long as child is properly strapped in the seat.
possible, until the child reaches the
weight or height limit for the seat.

Child Seat Placement Placing a forward-facing child


We strongly recommend placing a seat in the front seat can result
forward-facing child seat in a back in serious injury or death if the
seat, not the front. front airbag inflates.

Child Seat Type Placing a forward-facing child seat in If you must place a forward-
A child who is at least one year old, the front seat of a vehicle equipped facing child seat in front, move
and who fits within the child seat with a passenger’s airbag can be the vehicle seat as far back as
maker’s weight and height limits, hazardous. If the vehicle seat is too possible, and properly restrain
should be restrained in a forward- far forward, or the child’s head is the child.
facing, upright child seat. thrown forward during a collision, an
inflating airbag can strike the child
with enough force to cause very
serious or fatal injuries.

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Selecting a Child Seat

When buying a child seat, you need We also recommend selecting a 3. The child seat should fit the
to choose between a conventional LATCH-compatible seat with a rigid, vehicle seating position (or
child seat, or one designed for use rather than a flexible, anchor (see positions) where it will be used.
with the Lower Anchors and Tethers page 39 ).
for Children (LATCH) system. Before purchasing a conventional
In seating positions and vehicles not child seat, or using a previously
Conventional child seats must be equipped with LATCH, a LATCH- purchased one, we recommend that
secured to a vehicle with a seat belt, compatible child seat can be installed you test the seat in the specific
whereas LATCH-compatible seats using a seat belt. vehicle seating position, or positions,
are secured by attaching the seat to where the seat will be used.
hardware built into the rear seat. Whatever type of seat you choose, to
provide proper protection, a child
Since LATCH-compatible child seats seat should meet three
are easier to install and reduce the requirements:
possibility of improper installation,
we recommend selecting this style. 1. The child seat should meet U.S. or
Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard 213. Look for FMVSS
213 or CMVSS 213 on the box.

2. The child seat should be of the


proper type and size to fit the child.
Rear-facing for infants, forward-
facing for small children.

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Installing a Child Seat

After selecting a proper child seat, A child seat secured with a seat belt 3. Secure the child in the child seat.
and a good place to install the seat, should be installed as firmly as Make sure the child is properly
there are three main steps in possible. However, it does not need strapped in the child seat
installing the seat: to be ‘‘rock solid.’’ Some side-to-side according to the child seat maker’s
movement can be expected and instructions. A child who is not
1. Properly secure the child seat to should not reduce the child seat’s properly secured in a child seat
the vehicle. All child seats must be effectiveness. can be seriously injured in a crash.
secured to the vehicle with the lap
part of a lap/shoulder belt or with If the child seat is not secure, try The following pages provide
the LATCH (Lower Anchors and installing it in a different seating guidelines on how to properly install
Tethers for Children) system. A position, or use a different style of a child seat. A forward-facing child
child whose seat is not properly child seat that can be firmly secured. seat is used in all examples, but the
secured to the vehicle can be instructions are the same for rear-
endangered in a crash. facing child seats.

2. Make sure the child seat is firmly


secured. After installing a child
seat, push and pull the seat
forward and from side to side to
verify that it is secure.

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Installing a Child Seat

Installing a Child Seat Using


LATCH
MARKS

ANCHOR COVER Rigid type

Your vehicle is equipped with To install a LATCH-compatible child 3. Place the child seat on the vehicle
LATCH (Lower Anchors and seat: seat, and attach the seat to the
Tethers for Children) at the rear lower anchors according to the
seats. The lower anchors are located 1. Remove both anchor covers by child seat maker’s instructions.
between the seat-back and seat pulling forward.
bottom, and are to be used only with Some LATCH-compatible seats
a child seat designed for use with 2. Make sure there are no objects have a rigid-type connection as
LATCH. near the anchors that could shown above.
The location of each lower anchor is prevent a secure connection
marked with a small button above between the child seat and
the point. anchors. CONTINUED

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Installing a Child Seat

TETHER ANCHOR

Flexible type ANCHOR COVER

Other LATCH-compatible seats have 5. Remove the head restraint (see 7. Slide the anchor cover open.
a flexible-type connection as shown page 75 ). Make sure the removed
above. head restraints are secured in the
cargo area, and reinstalled when
4. Whatever type you have, follow the child seat is removed.
the child seat maker’s instructions
for adjusting or tightening the fit. 6. Route the tether strap over the top
of the seat-back, making sure the
strap is not twisted.

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Installing a Child Seat

TETHER ANCHOR Installing a Child Seat with a Lap/


Shoulder Belt
When not using the LATCH system,
all child seats must be secured to the
vehicle with the lap part of a lap/
shoulder belt.

In addition, the lap/shoulder belts in


the back seating positions, and in the
front passenger seat, have a locking
mechanism that must be activated to
TETHER STRAP HOOK secure a child seat.

8. Attach the tether strap hook to the 1. With the child seat in the desired
tether anchor, then tighten the seating position, route the belt
strap as instructed by the child through the child seat according
seat maker. to the seat maker’s instructions,
then insert the latch plate into the
9. Push and pull the child seat buckle.
forward and from side-to-side to
verify that it is secure.

CONTINUED

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Installing a Child Seat

2. To activate the lockable retractor, 4. After confirming that the belt is 5. Push and pull the child seat
slowly pull the shoulder part of the locked, grab the shoulder part of forward and from side to side to
belt all the way out until it stops, the belt near the buckle and pull verify that it is firmly secured. If
then let the belt feed back into the up to remove any slack from the the child seat is not secure,
retractor. lap part of the belt. Remember, if unlatch the belt, allow it to retract
the lap part of the belt is not tight, fully, then repeat these steps.
3. After the belt has retracted, tug on the child seat will not be secure.
it. If the belt is locked, you will not To deactivate the locking
be able to pull it out. If you can pull To remove slack, it may help to mechanism and remove a child
the belt out, it is not locked, and put weight on the child seat, or seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute
you will need to repeat these steps. push on the back of the seat while the seat belt, and let the belt fully
pulling up on the belt. retract.

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Installing a Child Seat

Installing a Child Seat with a


Tether
ANCHOR POINTS TETHER ANCHOR TETHER ANCHOR

ANCHOR COVER TETHER STRAP HOOK

A child seat with a tether can be 1. After securing the child seat in the 2. Slide the anchor cover open, then
installed in either seating position in desired position (see page 41 ), attach the tether strap hook to the
the back seat, using one of the remove the head restraint, then anchor, making sure the strap is
anchorage points shown above. route the tether strap over the top not twisted.
of the seat-back.
Since a tether can provide additional 3. Tighten the strap according to the
security to the lap/shoulder belt seat maker’s instructions.
installation, we recommend using a
tether whenever one is required or
available. (Tethers are required in
Canada.)

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Protecting Larger Children

When a child reaches the


recommended weight or height limit
for a forward-facing child seat, the Allowing a larger child age 12 or
child should sit in a back seat on a under to sit in front can result in
booster and wear a lap/shoulder belt. injury or death if the passenger’s
front airbag inflates.
The following pages give
instructions on how to check proper If a larger child must ride in front,
seat belt fit, what kind of booster move the vehicle seat as far
seat to use if one is needed, and back as possible, use a booster
important precautions for a child seat if needed, have the child
who must sit in front. sit up properly and wear the
seat belt properly.

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Protecting Larger Children

Checking Seat Belt Fit 3. Does the shoulder belt cross Using a Booster Seat
between the child’s neck and arm?

4. Is the lap part of the belt as low as


possible, touching the child’s
thighs?

5. Will the child be able to stay


seated like this for the whole trip?

If you answer yes to all these


questions, the child is ready to wear
the lap/shoulder belt correctly. If
you answer no to any question, the
To determine if a lap/shoulder belt child needs to ride on a booster seat. A child who has outgrown a forward-
properly fits a child, have the child facing child seat should ride in a
put on the seat belt, then ask back seat and use a booster seat
yourself: until the lap/shoulder belt fits them
properly without the booster.
1. Does the child sit all the way back
against the seat?

2. Do the child’s knees bend


comfortably over the edge of the
seat?
CONTINUED

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Protecting Larger Children

Some states also require children to When Can a Larger Child Sit in Of course, children vary widely. And
use a booster until they reach a Front while age may be one indicator of
given age or weight (e.g., 6 years or The National Highway Traffic Safety when a child can safely ride in the
60 lbs). Be sure to check current Administration and Transport front, there are other important
laws in the state or states where you Canada recommend that all children factors you should consider.
intend to drive. age 12 and under be properly
restrained in the back seat. Maturity
Booster seats can be high-back or To safely ride in front, a child must
low-back. Whichever style you select, If the passenger’s front airbag be able to follow the rules, including
make sure the booster meets federal inflates in a moderate to severe sitting properly, and wearing the seat
safety standards and that you follow frontal collision, the airbag can cause belt properly throughout a ride.
the booster seat maker’s instructions. serious injuries to a child who is
unrestrained, improperly restrained, Physical Size
If a child who uses a booster must sitting too close to the airbag, or out Physically, a child must be large
ride in front, move the vehicle seat of position. enough for the lap/shoulder belt to
as far back as possible, and be sure properly fit (see page 45 ). If the seat
the child is wearing the seat belt On models with side airbags, the belt does not fit properly, with or
properly. passenger’s airbag also poses risks. without the child sitting on a booster,
If any part of a larger child’s body is the child should not sit in the front.
A child may continue using a booster in the path of a deploying side airbag,
seat until the tops of their ears are the child could receive possibly
even with the top of the vehicle’s or serious injuries.
booster’s seat-back. A child of this
height should be tall enough to use
the lap/shoulder belt without a
booster.

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Protecting Larger Children

If you decide that a child can safely Additional Safety Precautions


ride up front, be sure to: Do not let a child wear a seat belt
across the neck. This could result in
Carefully read the owner’s manual, serious neck injuries during a crash.
and make sure you understand all
seat belt instructions and all safety Do not let a child put the shoulder
information. part of a seat belt behind the back or
under the arm. This could cause
Move the vehicle seat to the rear- very serious injuries during a crash.
most position. It also increases the chance that the
child will slide under the belt in a
Have the child sit up straight, back crash and be injured.
against the seat, and feet on or
near the floor. Two children should never use the
same seat belt. If they do, they could
Check that the child’s seat belt is be very seriously injured in a crash.
properly positioned and secured.
Do not put any accessories on a seat
Supervise the child. Even mature belt. Devices intended to improve a
children sometimes need to be child’s comfort or reposition the
reminded to fasten the seat belts shoulder part of a seat belt can make
or sit properly. the belt less effective, and increase
the chance of serious injury in a
crash.

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Important Safety Precautions

You’ll find many safety can use the belt properly without a Control Your Speed
recommendations throughout this booster (see page 29 ). Excessive speed is a major factor in
section, and throughout this manual. crash injuries and deaths. Generally,
The recommendations on this page Be Aware of Airbag Hazards the higher the speed the greater the
are the ones we consider to be the While airbags can save lives, they risk, but serious accidents can also
most important. can cause serious or fatal injuries to occur at lower speeds. Never drive
occupants who sit too close to them, faster than is safe for current
Always Wear Your Seat Belt or are not properly restrained. conditions, regardless of the
A seat belt is your best protection in Infants, young children, and short maximum speed posted.
all types of collisions. Airbags adults are at the greatest risk. Be
supplement seat belts, but airbags sure to follow all instructions and Keep Your Vehicle in Safe
are designed to inflate only in a warnings in this manual. Condition
moderate to severe frontal collision. Having a tire blowout or a
So even though your vehicle is Don’t Drink and Drive mechanical failure can be extremely
equipped with airbags, make sure Alcohol and driving don’t mix. Even hazardous. To reduce the possibility
you and your passengers always one drink can reduce your ability to of such problems, check your tire
wear your seat belts, and wear them respond to changing conditions, and pressures and condition frequently,
properly. (See page 14 .) your reaction time gets worse with and perform all regularly scheduled
every additional drink. So don’t drink maintenance (see page 152).
Restrain All Children and drive, and don’t let your friends
Children age 12 and under should drink and drive, either.
ride properly restrained in a back
seat. Infants and small children
should be restrained in a child seat.
Larger children should use a booster
and a lap/shoulder belt until they

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Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

Your vehicle is equipped with many


(3) (4)
(10) features that work together to
(1) protect you and your passengers
(7) during a crash.
(5) Some safety features do not require
any action on your part. These
include a strong steel framework
that forms a safety cage around the
passenger compartment; front and
rear crush zones; a collapsible
steering column; and seat belt
tensioners that tighten the front seat
(9) (8) (6) (2) belts in the event of a crash.

(1) Safety Cage


(2) Crush Zones
(3) Seats and Seat-Backs
(4) Head Restraints
(5) Collapsible Steering Column
(6) Seat Belts
(7) Front Airbags
(8) Side Airbags
(2) (optional on EX model)
(9) Front Seat Belt Tensioners
(10) Door Locks
CONTINUED

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Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

However, you and your passengers Seat Belts Why Wear Seat Belts
can’t take full advantage of these Your vehicle is equipped with seat Seat belts are the single most
safety features unless you remain belts in all seating positions. effective safety device for adults and
sitting in a proper position and larger children. (Infants and smaller
always wear your seat belts properly. Your seat belt system also includes a children must be properly restrained
In fact, some safety features can light on the instrument panel to in child seats.)
contribute to injuries if they are not remind you and your passengers to
used properly. fasten your seat belts. Not wearing a seat belt properly
increases the chance of serious
The following pages explain how you injury or death in a crash, even
can take an active role in protecting though your vehicle has airbags.
yourself and your passengers.
In addition, most states and all
Canadian provinces require you to
wear seat belts.

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Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

Help keep you from being thrown Of course, seat belts cannot
against the inside of the vehicle completely protect you in every
Not wearing a seat belt properly and against other occupants. crash. But in most cases, seat belts
increases the chance of serious can reduce your risk of serious
injury or death in a crash, even Keep you from being thrown out injury.
if you have airbags. of the vehicle.
What You Should Do:
Be sure you and your Help keep you in a good position Always wear your seat belt, and
passengers always wear seat should the airbags ever deploy. A make sure you wear it properly.
belts and wear them properly. good position reduces the risk of
injury from an inflating airbag, and
allows you to get the best
When properly worn, seat belts: advantage from the airbag.

Keep you connected to the vehicle


so you can take advantage of the
vehicle’s built-in safety features.

Help protect you in almost every


type of crash, including frontal,
side, and rear impacts and
rollovers.

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Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

Airbags The most important things you need


to know about your airbags are:
Airbags do not replace seat belts.
They are designed to supplement
the seat belts.
Airbags offer no protection in rear
impacts, rollovers, or minor
frontal or side collisions.
Airbags can pose hazards. To do
their job, airbags must inflate with
tremendous force. So while
airbags help save lives, they can
cause minor injuries or more
serious or even fatal injuries if
Your vehicle has a Supplemental Optional on EX models occupants are not properly
Restraint System (SRS) with front Your vehicle also has side airbags to restrained or sitting properly.
airbags to help protect the heads and help protect the upper torso of the
chests of the driver and a front seat driver or a front seat passenger What You Should Do:
passenger during a moderate to during a moderate to severe side Always wear your seat belt properly,
severe frontal collision (see page impact (see page 25 for more sit upright, and as far back from the
22 for more information on how information on how your side airbags steering wheel while allowing full
your front airbags work). work). control of the vehicle. A front
passenger should move their seat as
far back from the dashboard as
possible.

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Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Your vehicle’s exhaust contains With the tailgate/hatch open, air


carbon monoxide gas. You should flow can pull exhaust gas into your
have no problem with carbon Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. vehicle’s interior and create a
monoxide entering the vehicle in Breathing it can cause hazardous condition. If you must
normal driving if you maintain your unconsciousness and even kill drive with the tailgate/hatch open,
vehicle properly. you. open all the windows and set the
heating and cooling system as shown
Have the exhaust system inspected Avoid any enclosed areas or below.
for leaks whenever: activities that expose you to
carbon monoxide. If you must sit in your parked vehicle,
The vehicle is raised for an oil even in an unconfined area, with the
change. engine running, adjust the heating
You notice a change in the sound High levels of carbon monoxide can and cooling system as follows:
of the exhaust. collect rapidly in enclosed areas,
The vehicle was in an accident such as a garage. Do not run the 1. Select the Fresh Air mode.
that may have damaged the under- engine with the garage door closed. 2. Select the mode.
side. Even with the door open, run the 3. Turn the fan on high speed.
engine only long enough to move the 4. Set the temperature control to a
vehicle out of the garage. comfortable setting.

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Safety Labels

These labels are in the locations SUN VISOR


shown. They warn you of potential U.S. models
hazards that could cause serious
injury. Read these labels carefully. If
a label comes off or becomes hard to
read, contact your Honda dealer for
a replacement.

Canadian models
DASHBOARD
U.S. models only

U.S. models only

CONTINUED

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Interior Convenience Items

CARGO AREA CARGO AREA COIN TRAY


SIDE POCKET CEILING POCKET*

VANITY MIRROR*
DOOR POCKETS
RADIO POCKET*

ACCESSORY
POWER
SOCKET

GLOVE BOX

BEVERAGE HOLDERS CENTER LOWER POCKET*

SEAT-BACK POCKET*
* : If equipped BUNGEE CORDS*

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Interior Convenience Items

Beverage Holders These sockets are intended to supply Glove Box


Be careful when you are using the power for 12 volt DC accessories Open the glove box by pulling the
beverage holders. A spilled liquid that are rated 120 watts or less (10 bottom of the handle. Close it with a
that is very hot can scald you or your amps). firm push. Lock or unlock the glove
passengers. Spilled liquids can also To power an accessory, the ignition box with the master key.
damage the upholstery, and switch must be in the ACCESSORY
electrical components in the interior. (I) or ON (II) position.

Accessory Power Sockets On EX models An open glove box can cause


Your vehicle has one or two When both sockets are begin used, serious injury to your passenger
accessory power sockets, depending the combined power rating of each in a crash, even if the
on the model. All models have a accessory should be 120 watts or less passenger is wearing the seat
front accessory power socket on the (10 amps). belt.
dashboard above the glove box.
These sockets will not power an Always keep the glove box
The EX model has another automotive type cigarette lighter closed while driving.
accessory power socket in the cargo element.
area on the passenger’s side.

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Interior Lights

Ceiling Light Cargo Area Light Spotlights


The cargo area light has a three- On EX models
position switch. In the center Turn on the spotlight by pushing the
position, the light comes on when lens. Push the lens again to turn it
you open the hatch. off. You can use the spotlights at all
times.
ON
Ignition Switch Light
The ignition switch light comes on
when you unlock the driver’s door,
OFF and fades out about 30 seconds after
you close the door.
DOOR ACTIVATED

The ceiling light has a three-position


switch: ON, Door Activated, and
OFF.
In the Door Activated (center)
position, the light comes on when
you:
Open any door.
Remove the key from the ignition.
If you do not open a door, the light
fades out in about 30 seconds.
Unlock the doors with the key or
remote transmitter.

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Safety Labels

HOOD On models with side airbags


On models without side airbags

On models with side airbags

RADIATOR CAP

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Protecting Your CDs

General Information Protecting CDs


When using CD-R discs, use only When a CD is not being played, store
high quality CDs labeled for audio it in its case to protect it from dust
use. and other contamination. To prevent
warpage, keep CDs out of direct
When recording a CD-R, the sunlight and extreme heat.
recording must be closed for it to
be used by the CD players. To clean a CD, use a clean soft cloth.
Wipe across the CD from the center
CD-RW discs will not work in this to the outside edge.
unit.
A new CD may be rough on the
Play only standard round CDs. inner and outer edges. The small
Odd-shaped CDs may jam in the plastic pieces causing this roughness Handle a CD by its edges; never
drive or cause other problems. can flake off and fall on the re- touch either surface. Do not place
cording surface of the CD, causing stabilizer rings or labels on the CD.
Handle your CDs properly to skipping or other problems. Remove These, along with contamination
prevent damage and skipping. these pieces by rubbing the inner from fingerprints, liquids, and felt-tip
and outer edges with the side of a pens, can cause the CD to not play
pencil or pen. properly, or possibly jam in the drive.

Never try to insert foreign objects in


the CD player or the magazine.

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CD Player Error Messages

If you see an error message in the


display while playing a CD player, Error Message Cause Solution
find the cause in the chart to the
right. If you cannot clear the error Press the EJECT button and pull out the CD.
message, take the vehicle to a Honda FOCUS Error Check if the CD is inserted correctly in the CD
dealer. player.
Make sure the CD is not scratched or damaged.
Press the EJECT button and pull out the CD.
Check the CD for damage or deformation.
Mechanical Error If the CD cannot be pulled out or the error
indication does not disappear after the CD is
ejected, see your Honda dealer.
Do not try to force the CD out of the player.
High Temperature Will disappear when the temperature returns to
normal.

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CD Changer Error Messages

If you see an error message in the


display while playing a CD player, Error Message Cause Solution
find the cause in the chart to the
right. If you cannot clear the error Press the magazine eject button and pull out
message, take the vehicle to a Honda the magazine, check for error indication. Insert
dealer. FOCUS Error the magazine again. If the code does not
disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,
consult your Honda dealer.
No CD in the CD Insert CD.
Magazine
Press the magazine eject button and pull out
the magazine, check for error indication. Insert
Mechanical Error the magazine again. If the code does not
disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,
consult your Honda dealer.
High Temperature Will disappear when the temperature returns to
normal.
No CD Magazine in the Insert CD magazine.
CD Changer

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Accessories and Modifications

Modifying your vehicle, or installing However, if electronic accessories


some non-Honda accessories, can are improperly installed, or exceed
make your vehicle unsafe. Before Improper accessories or your vehicle’s electrical system
you make any modifications or add modifications can affect your capacity, they can interfere with the
any accessories, be sure to read the vehicle’s handling, stability, and operation of your vehicle, or even
following information. performance, and cause a cause the airbags to deploy.
crash in which you can be hurt
Accessories or killed. Before installing any accessory:
Your dealer has Honda accessories
that allow you to personalize your Follow all instructions in this Make sure the accessory does not
vehicle. These accessories have owner’s manual regarding obscure any lights, or interfere
been designed and approved for your accessories and modifications. with proper vehicle operation or
vehicle, and are covered by warranty. performance.

Although aftermarket accessories When properly installed, cellular Be sure electronic accessories do
may fit on your vehicle, they may not phones, alarms, two-way radios, and not overload electrical circuits
meet factory specifications, and low-powered audio systems should (see page 196 ).
could adversely affect your vehicle’s not interfere with your vehicle’s
handling and stability (see computer controlled systems, such Have the installer contact your
‘‘Modifications’’ on page 116 for as the SRS and anti-lock brake Honda dealer for assistance before
additional information). systems. installing any electronic accessory.

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Accessories and Modifications

Modifications Larger or smaller wheels and tires


Removing parts from your vehicle, can interfere with the operation of
or replacing components with non- your vehicle’s anti-lock brakes and
Honda (aftermarket) components other systems.
could seriously affect your vehicle’s
handling, stability, and reliability. Do not modify your steering wheel
or any other part of your
Some examples are: Supplemental Restraint System.
Lowering your vehicle with an Modifications could make the
aftermarket suspension kit that system ineffective. See the safety
significantly reduces ground precautions on page 28 .
clearance can allow the
undercarriage to hit speed bumps If you plan to modify your vehicle,
or other raised objects, which consult your Honda dealer.
could cause the airbags to deploy.
Do not cover or replace front seat-
Raising your vehicle with an back covers without consulting a
aftermarket suspension kit can Honda dealer. Improperly
affect the handling and stability. replacing or covering front seat-
back covers can prevent your side
Aftermarket wheels, because they airbags from inflating during a
are a universal design, can cause collision.
excessive stress on suspension
components.

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Carrying Cargo

Your vehicle has several convenient


storage areas:
Cargo area side pockets
Glove box
CARGO AREA SIDE POCKET DOOR POCKETS CEILING POCKET
(EX model) Ceiling pocket (EX model)
Door pockets
Seat-back pocket (EX model)
Cargo area
Seat-back bungees (EX model)

However, carrying too much cargo,


or improperly storing it, can affect
your vehicle’s handling, stability,
stopping distance, and tires, and
make it unsafe. Before carrying any
type of cargo, be sure to read the
following pages.

SEAT-BACK BUNGEES
(EX model)

CARGO AREA SEAT-BACK POCKET GLOVE BOX


(EX model)

CONTINUED

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Carrying Cargo

(308 kg)’’ on your vehicle’s placard 5. Determine the combined weight


(on the driver’s doorjamb). of accessories, luggage, and cargo
Overloading or improper being loaded in the vehicle. The
loading can affect handling and 2. Determine the combined weight weight may not safely exceed the
stability and cause a crash in of the driver and passengers that available cargo and luggage load
which you can be hurt or killed. will be riding in the vehicle. (Four capacity calculated in step 4 [75
is seating capacity of your vehicle.) lbs (34 kg) in this example].
Follow all load limits and other
loading guidelines in this 3. Subtract the combined weight of 6. If your vehicle will be towing a
manual. the driver and passengers from trailer, the load from your trailer
675 lbs (308 kg). will be transferred to your vehicle.
Consult this manual to determine
Load Limit 4. The resulting figure equals the how this reduces the available
The maximum load for your vehicle available amount of cargo and cargo and luggage load capacity of
is 675 lbs (308 kg). This figure luggage load capacity. your vehicle.
includes the total weight of all
occupants, cargo, accessories, and For example, if there will be four 150 The total weight must not exceed
the tongue weight if you are towing a lbs (70 kg) occupants in your vehicle, the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
trailer. the amount of available cargo and (GVWR). The load for the front and
luggage load capacity is 75 lbs (34 rear axles also must not exceed the
To determine the correct cargo and kg). Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
luggage load limit: 4 × 150 lbs (70 kg) = 600 lbs (280 (see page 135 ).
kg)
1. Locate the statement, ‘‘the 675 lbs (308 kg) − 600 lbs (280 kg) =
combined weight of occupants and 75 lbs (34 kg)
cargo should never exceed 675 lbs

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Carrying Cargo

Carrying Items in the Passenger If you carry large items that Seat-Back Bungee
Compartment prevent you from closing the EX models
Store or secure all items that could tailgate or the hatch, exhaust gas
be thrown around and hurt can enter the passenger area. To SEAT-BACK PLASTIC CORD
someone during a crash. avoid the possibility of carbon
monoxide poisoning, follow the
Be sure items placed on the floor instructions on page 48 . LOOP
behind the front seats cannot roll
under the seats and interfere with If you can carry any items on a
the pedals or seat operation. roof rack, be sure the total weight
of the rack and the items does not
Keep the glove box closed while exceed the maximum allowable
driving. If it is open, a passenger weight. Please contact your Honda
could injure their knees during a dealer for further information. HOOK
crash or sudden stop.
If you use an accessory roof rack, The driver’s seat-back and left rear
Carrying Cargo in the Cargo Area the roof rack weight limit may be seat-back are equipped with
or on a Roof Rack lower. Refer to the information that adjustable bungee cords to hold
Distribute cargo evenly on the came with your roof rack. medium-sized, lightweight objects.
floor of the cargo area, placing the
heaviest items on the bottom and If the cords are not installed, route
as far forward as possible. Tie one cord through the loops as shown.
down items that could be thrown To attach the hooks, press the top of
about the vehicle during a crash or the hook down, and slide to the
sudden stop. desired position, then release. Adjust
as needed.

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120
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Braking System, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Brake Wear Indicators Anti-lock Brakes You will feel a pulsation in the brake
If the brake pads need replacing, you Standard on EX models pedal when the ABS activates, and
will hear a distinctive, metallic The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) you may hear some noise. This is
screeching sound when you apply helps prevent the brakes from normal: it is the ABS rapidly
the brake pedal. If you do not have locking up and helps you retain pumping the brakes. On dry
the brake pads replaced, they will steering control by pumping the pavement, you will need to press on
screech all the time. It is normal for brakes rapidly, much faster than a the brake pedal very hard before the
the brakes to occasionally squeal or person can do it. ABS activates. However, you may
squeak when you apply them. feel the ABS activate immediately if
The ABS also balances the front-to- you are trying to stop on snow or ice.
rear braking distribution according
to vehicle loading.

You should never pump the brake pedal;


this defeats the purpose of the ABS.
Let the ABS work for you by always
keeping firm, steady pressure on the
brake pedal as you steer away from
the hazard. This is sometimes
referred to as ‘‘stomp and steer.’’

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Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

ABS Indicator If the ABS indicator and the brake ABS will not prevent a skid that
system indicator come on together, results from changing direction
ABS INDICATOR and the parking brake is fully abruptly, such as trying to take a
released, the front-to-rear braking corner too fast or making a sudden
distribution system may also be shut lane change. Always drive at a safe,
down. prudent speed for the road and
weather conditions.
Test your brakes as instructed on
page 194 . If the brakes feel normal, ABS cannot prevent a loss of
drive slowly and have your vehicle stability. Always steer moderately
repaired by your Honda dealer as when you are braking hard. Severe
soon as possible. Avoid sudden hard or sharp steering wheel movement
braking which could cause the rear can still cause your vehicle to veer
wheels to lock up and possibly lead into oncoming traffic or off the road.
The ABS is self-checking each time to a loss of control.
the vehicle is started and moved. A vehicle with ABS may require a
The ABS indicator will come on if Important Safety Reminders longer distance to stop on loose or
anything goes wrong. If the ABS ABS does not reduce the time or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or
indicator comes on, the brakes still distance it takes to stop the snow, than a vehicle without anti-
work like a conventional system, but vehicle; it only helps with steering lock. Slow down and allow a greater
without anti-lock. You should have a control during braking. You should distance between vehicles under
dealer inspect your vehicle as soon always maintain a safe following those conditions.
as possible. distance from other vehicles.

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Towing a Trailer

Your vehicle has been designed To achieve a proper tongue load,


primarily to carry passengers and start by loading 60 percent of the
their cargo. You can use it to tow a Exceeding any load limit or load toward the front of the trailer
trailer if you carefully observe the improperly loading your vehicle and 40 percent toward the rear, then
load limits, use the proper equipment, and trailer can cause a crash in re-adjust the load as needed.
and follow the guidelines in this which you can be seriously hurt
section. or killed. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR) − The maximum
Be sure to read the Driving Off- Check the loading of your allowable weight of the vehicle, all
Highway Guidelines section on page vehicle and trailer carefully occupants, all cargo and the tongue
143 if you plan to tow off paved before starting to drive. load is 4,450 lbs (2,020 kg).
surfaces.
Gross Axle Weight Ratings
(GAWR) − The maximum
allowable weight on the vehicle axles
are 2,300 lbs (1,045 kg) on the front
axle, and 2,205 lbs (1,000 kg) on the
rear axle.

The best way to confirm that all


loads are within limits is to check
them at a public scale.

CONTINUED

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Towing a Trailer

Total Trailer Weight: The total


weight of the trailer and everything
loaded in it must not exceed 1,500
lbs (680 kg). Towing a load that is
too heavy can seriously affect your
vehicle’s handling and performance.
It can also damage the engine and
drivetrain.

Tongue Load: The weight that the


tongue of a fully-loaded trailer puts
on the hitch should be approximately
10 percent of the trailer weight. Too
little tongue load can make the
trailer unstable and cause it to sway.
Too much tongue load reduces front-
tire traction and steering control.

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Towing a Trailer

Towing Equipment and Trailer Lights If you use a non-Honda trailer


Accessories lighting harness and converter, you
Towing generally requires a variety GROUND BACK-UP LEFT TURN can get the connector and pins that
(BLACK) LIGHT SIGNAL
of supplemental equipment. To (WHITE/ (GREEN/RED) mate with the connector in your
ensure the best quality, we BLACK) vehicle from your Honda dealer.
recommend that you purchase
Honda equipment whenever possible. Connector − 98530-00006-00
Discuss any additional needs with Terminal Kit − 07JAZ-001-030A
your trailer sales or rental agency,
and make sure all equipment is Trailer Brakes
properly installed, maintained, and RIGHT TURN BRAKE Honda requires that any trailer with
also meets state regulations. SIGNAL LIGHT a total trailer weight of 1,000 lbs (455
(GREEN/ (WHITE/ TAILLIGHT
YELLOW) BLACK) (RED/YELLOW) kg) or more has its own brakes.
Hitches
Any hitch used on your vehicle must Check trailer light requirements for There are two common types of
be properly bolted to the underbody. the areas where you plan to tow. trailer brakes: surge and electric.
Surge brakes are common for boat
Safety Chains Your vehicle has a trailer lighting trailers, since the brakes will get wet.
Always use safety chains. Make sure connector located behind the right
they are secured to both the trailer side panel in the cargo area. Refer to Electric brakes must be
and hitch, and that they cross under the drawing above for the wiring electronically actuated. Do not
the tongue so they can catch the color code and purpose of each pin. attempt to tap into your vehicle’s
trailer if it becomes unhitched. hydraulic system. See your brake
Leave enough slack to allow the manufacturer for more information
trailer to turn corners easily, but do on installing electric brakes.
not let the chains drag on the ground. CONTINUED

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Towing a Trailer

Trailer Mirrors Pre-Tow Checklist The lights and brakes on your


Many states and Canadian provinces When preparing to tow, and before vehicle and the trailer are working
require special outside mirrors when driving away, be sure to check the properly.
towing a trailer. Even if they don’t, following:
you should install special mirrors if Your vehicle tires and spare are
you cannot clearly see behind you, or The vehicle has been properly properly inflated (see page 172 ),
if the trailer creates a blind spot. serviced, and the tires, brakes, and the trailer tires and spare are
suspension, and cooling system inflated as recommended by the
Ask your trailer sales or rental are in good operating condition. trailer maker.
agency if any other items are
recommended or required for your If you tow frequently, follow the
towing situation. Severe Conditions maintenance
schedule.

The trailer has been properly


serviced and is in good condition.

All weights and loads are within


limits (see page 136 ).

The hitch, safety chains, and any


other attachments are secure.

All items on and in the trailer are


properly secured and cannot shift
while you drive.

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Trailer Driving Tips

Driving Safely With a Trailer Towing Speeds and Gears Driving on Hills
The added weight, length, and Drive slower than normal in all When climbing hills, closely watch
height of a trailer will affect your driving situations, and obey posted your temperature gauge. If it nears
vehicle’s handling and performance, speed limits for vehicles with trailers. the red mark, turn the air
so driving with a trailer requires If you have an automatic conditioning off, reduce speed and, if
some special driving skills and transmission, use overdrive (O/D) necessary, pull to the side of the
techniques. when towing a trailer on level roads. road to let the engine cool.
Turn off the overdrive (O/D) mode
For your safety and the safety of when towing a trailer in hilly terrain. If the automatic transmission shifts
others, take time to practice driving (see ‘‘Driving on Hills’’ in the next frequently between 3rd and 4th
maneuvers before heading for the column for additional gear gears while going up a hill, turn off
open road, and follow the guidelines information.) the overdrive (O/D) mode (see page
discussed below. 129 ).
Making Turns and Braking
Make turns more slowly and wider If you must stop when facing uphill,
than normal. The trailer tracks a use the foot brake or parking brake.
smaller arc than your vehicle, and it Do not try to hold the vehicle in
can hit or run over something the place by pressing on the accelerator,
vehicle misses. Allow more time and as this can cause the automatic
distance for braking. Do not brake or transmission to overheat.
turn suddenly as this could cause the
trailer to jackknife or turn over.

CONTINUED

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Trailer Driving Tips

Backing Up Parking
Always drive slowly and have Follow all normal precautions when
someone guide you when backing up. parking, including firmly setting the
Grip the bottom of the steering parking brake and putting the
wheel; then turn the wheel to the left transmission in Park (automatic) or
to get the trailer to move to the left, in 1st or Reverse (manual). Also,
and turn the wheel right to move the place wheel chocks at each of the
trailer to the right. trailer’s tires.

Handling Crosswinds and Buffeting When driving down hills, reduce


Crosswinds and air turbulence your speed and shift down to 3rd
caused by passing trucks can disrupt gear on the manual transmission,
your steering and cause trailer and turn off the overdrive (O/D)
swaying. When being passed by a mode on the automatic transmission.
large vehicle, keep a constant speed Do not ‘‘ride’’ the brakes.
and steer straight ahead. Do not try
to make quick steering or braking Remember: It will take longer to
corrections. slow down and stop when towing
a trailer.

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Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome

Your Honda can be towed behind a Perform the following procedure


motorhome at legal highway speeds everyday immediately before you
up to 65 mph (100 km/h). Do not begin towing. Otherwise severe The steering system can be damaged if
exceed 65 mph (100 km/h). automatic transmission damage will the steering wheel is locked. Leave the
Otherwise, severe transmission occur. ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I), and
damage will occur. To avoid damage Check the transmission fluid level make sure the steering wheel turns
to the 4WD system, it must be towed (see page 162 ). Do not overfill. f reely bef ore you begin towing.
with all four wheels on the ground Start the engine.
(flat towing). Press on the brake pedal. Move Extended Towing
the shift lever through all its If you tow more than 8 hours in one
When purchasing a tow bar, make positions. day, you should repeat the above
sure you select a reputable Shift to D, then to N. Let the procedure at least every 8 hours
manufacturer and installer. Follow engine run for three minutes, then (when you stop for fuel, etc.)
the manufacturer’s attachment turn it off.
instructions carefully. Release the parking brake.
Leave the ignition switch in the
ACCESSORY (I) position so the Failure to f ollow the above instructions
steering wheel does not lock. exactly will result in severe automatic
Make sure the radio and any items transmission damage. If you cannot
plugged into the accessory power shif t the transmission or start the
sockets are turned off so you do engine, your vehicle must be
not run down the battery. transported on a f lat-bed truck or
trailer.

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Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome

Automatic Transmission INTERIOR FUSE BOX


Extended Towing
When towing your Element for long This f use MUST be re-installed bef ore
periods, remove the 7.5A Accessory/ driving the vehicle. Failure to re-install
Radio fuse to reduce the drain on the the f use may allow you to remove the
battery. This fuse is located in the key with the transmission in gear.
interior fuse box and is shown as
number 8 below. Severe automatic transmission damage
will occur if the vehicle is not started
Only remove the fuse after you have or shif ted f rom reverse to neutral and
performed the transmission shifting then towed with the drive wheels on the
procedure, and the key is in the ACC/RADIO FUSE ground.
ACCESSORY (I) position. Store the
fuse in an obvious location (center If you tow an Element with an
tray, coin pockets, etc) as a reminder automatic transmission, the
to re-install the fuse before driving transmission fluid must be changed
the vehicle. every two years or 30,000 miles
(48,000 km), whichever comes first.

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Maintenance Safety

All service items not detailed in this Wear eye protection and Potential Vehicle Hazards
section should be performed by a protective clothing when working Carbon Monoxide poison from
Honda technician or other qualified with the battery or compressed air. engine exhaust. Be sure there is
mechanic. adequate ventilation whenever you
operate the engine.
Important Safety Precautions
To eliminate potential hazards, read Improperly maintaining this Burns from hot parts. Let the
the instructions before you begin, vehicle or failing to correct a engine and exhaust system cool
and make sure you have the tools problem before driving can before touching any parts.
and skills required. cause a crash in which you can
be seriously hurt or killed. Injury from moving parts. Do
Make sure your vehicle is parked not run the engine unless
on level ground, the parking brake Always follow the inspection instructed to do so.
is set, and the engine is off. and maintenance
recommendations, and
To clean parts, use a commercially schedules in this owner’s
available degreaser or parts manual.
cleaner, not gasoline.

To reduce the possibility of fire or


explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks,
and flames away from the battery
and all fuel-related parts.

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Maintenance Safety, Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance Schedule Which Schedule to Follow:


The maintenance schedule assumes Service your vehicle according to the
Failure to properly follow you will use your vehicle as normal time and mileage periods on one of
maintenance instructions and transportation for passengers and the Maintenance Schedules on the
precautions can cause you to their possessions. You should also following pages.
be seriously hurt or killed. follow these recommendations:
U.S. Owners − Follow the
Always follow the procedures Avoid exceeding your vehicle’s Maintenance Schedule for Severe
and precautions in this owner’s load limit. This puts excess stress Conditions if you drive your vehicle
manual. on the engine, brakes, and many MAINLY under one or more of the
other parts of your vehicle. The following conditions.
load limit is shown on the tire
Some of the most important safety information label on the driver’s Driving less than 5 miles (8 km)
precautions are given here. However, doorjamb. per trip or, in freezing
we cannot warn you of every temperatures, driving less than 10
conceivable hazard that can arise in Operate your vehicle on miles (16 km) per trip.
performing maintenance. Only you reasonable roads within the legal
can decide whether or not you speed limit. Driving in extremely hot [over
should perform a given task. 90°F (32°C)] conditions.
Drive your vehicle regularly over a
distance of several miles Used primarily as a delivery
(kilometers). vehicle or taxi that is driven
mostly in stop-and-go traffic and/
Always use unleaded gasoline with or parked with the engine idling.
the proper octane rating (see page
110 ). CONTINUED

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Maintenance Schedule

Trailer towing, driving with a roof Servicing Your Vehicle U.S. Vehicles:
top carrier, or driving in Your authorized Honda dealer Maintenance, replacement, or
mountainous conditions. knows your vehicle best and can repair of emissions control
provide competent, efficient service. devices and systems may be done
Driving on muddy, dusty, or de- However, service at a dealer is not by any automotive repair
iced roads. mandatory to keep your warranties establishment or individual using
in effect. Maintenance may be done parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA
NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY by any qualified service facility or standards.
drive under ‘‘severe’’ conditions, you skilled person to keep all the receipts
should follow the Maintenance as proof of completion, and have the According to state and federal
Schedule for Normal Conditions. person who does the work fill out the regulations, failure to perform
Maintenance Record. Check your maintenance on the items marked
Canadian Owners − Follow the warranty booklet for more with # will not void your emissions
Maintenance Schedule for Severe information. warranties. However, Honda
Conditions. recommends that all maintenance
We recommend the use of Honda services be performed at the
parts and fluids whenever you have recommended time or mileage
maintenance done. period to ensure long-term reliability.

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Maintenance Schedule

Owner’s Maintenance Checks Engine oil level − Check every Tires − Check the tire pressure
You should check the following time you fill the fuel tank. See monthly. Examine the tread for
items at the specified intervals. If page 113 . wear and foreign objects. See page
you are unsure of how to perform 172 .
any check, turn to the appropriate Engine coolant level − Check the
page listed. radiator reserve tank every time Lights − Check the operation of
you fill the fuel tank. See page 113. the headlights, parking lights,
taillights, high-mount brake light,
Windshield washer fluid − Check turn signals, brake lights, and
the level in the reservoir monthly. license plate light monthly. See
If weather conditions cause you to page 166 .
use the washers frequently, check
the reservoir each time you stop
for fuel. See page 161 .

Automatic transmission − Check


the fluid level monthly. See page
162 .

Brakes − Check the fluid level


monthly. See page 164 .

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Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given). Follow the Normal Maintenance
miles x 1,000 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150
Schedule if the severe driving
km x 1,000 16 32 48 64 80 96 112 128 144 160 176 192 208 224 240
Check engine oil and coolant Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop
conditions specified in the Severe
Check tires Check inflation and condition once a month Conditions Maintenance Schedule on
Replace engine oil the next page do not apply.
(Or every 1 year, whichever comes first)
Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 175 ) Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY
Maintenance Schedule for Normal Conditions

Replace engine oil filter


drive under a ‘‘severe’’ condition, you
Check front and rear brakes
should follow the Normal Conditions
Check parking brake adjustment
Inspect the following items: Maintenance Schedule.
Tie-rod ends, steering gearbox, and boots
Suspension components
Driveshaft boots (Or every 1 year, whichever comes first)
Brake hoses and lines (including ABS)
All fluid levels and condition of fluids
Exhaust system#
Fuel lines and connections#
Inspect drive belts
Replace dust and pollen filter (Or every 2 years, whichever comes first)
Replace air cleaner element
Replace spark plugs
Inspect valve clearance
(Otherwise adjust only if noisy)
Replace automatic transmission fluid*1
Replace manual transmission fluid
(Or every 6 years, whichever comes first)
Replace rear differential fluid
(Or every 5 years, whichever comes first)
Inspect idle speed Every 160,000 miles (256,000 km)
Replace engine coolant At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, then
every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years
Replace brake fluid Every 3 years (independent of mileage)
*1: Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 5 years.
#: See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page 150 .

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Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given). Follow the Severe Maintenance
miles x 1,000 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150
Schedule if you drive your vehicle
km x 1,000 16 32 48 64 80 96 112 128 144 160 176 192 208 224 240
Check engine oil and coolant Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop
MAINLY under one or more of the
Check tires Check inflation and condition once a month following conditions:
Replace engine oil Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or every 6 months, Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) per
whichever comes first trip or, in freezing temperatures,
Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 175 ) Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) driving less than 10 miles (16 km)
Replace engine oil filter
per trip.

Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions


Check front and rear brakes
Driving in extremely hot [over 90°F
Lubricate all hinges, locks and latches
Inspect the following items: (Or every 1 year, whichever comes first) (32°C)] conditions.
Tie rod ends, steering gearbox, and boots Extensive idling or long periods of
Suspension components, Driveshaft boots stop and go driving, such as a taxi or
Check parking brake adjustment a commercial delivery vehicle.
Inspect the following items: Trailer towing, driving with a roof
Brake hoses and lines (including ABS)
rack, or driving in mountainous
All fluid levels and condition of fluids (Or every 1 year, whichever comes first)
Exhaust system#, Fuel lines and connections#
conditions.
Lights and controls/vehicle underbody Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced
Inspect drive belts roads.
Replace dust and pollen filter*1 (Or every 2 years, whichever comes first) For Canadian Owners − Follow the
Replace air cleaner element Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) Maintenance Schedule for Severe
(Use normal schedule except in dusty condition) Conditions.
Replace spark plugs
*1 : See dust and pollen filter on page 170 for
Inspect valve clearance
replacement information under special
(Otherwise adjust only if noisy)
Replace automatic transmission fluid*2 driving conditions.
Replace manual transmission fluid *2 : Replace at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3
(Or every 3 years, whichever comes first) years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000
Replace rear differential fluid km) or 2 years.
(Or every 4 years, whichever comes first)
#: See information on maintenance and
Inspect idle speed Every 160,000 miles (256,000 km)
emissions warranty, last column, page
Replace engine coolant At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, then
every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years 150 .
Replace brake fluid Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

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Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page 152 ) or severe
conditions (page 153 ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.

5,000 mi Signature or dealer stamp mi/km 45,000 mi Signature or dealer stamp mi/km
8,000 km 72,000 km
Date Date

10,000 mi mi/km 50,000 mi mi/km


16,000 km 80,000 km
Date Date

15,000 mi mi/km 55,000 mi mi/km


24,000 km 88,000 km
Date Date

20,000 mi mi/km 60,000 mi mi/km


32,000 km 96,000 km
(or 1 year) Date (or 3 years) Date

25,000 mi mi/km 65,000 mi mi/km


40,000 km 104,000 km
Date Date

30,000 mi mi/km 70,000 mi mi/km


48,000 km 112,000 km
Date Date

35,000 mi mi/km 75,000 mi mi/km


56,000 km 120,000 km
Date Date

40,000 mi mi/km 80,000 mi mi/km


64,000 km 128,000 km
(or 2 years) Date (or 4 years) Date

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Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

85,000 mi Signature or dealer stamp mi/km 125,000 mi Signature or dealer stamp mi/km
136,000 km 200,000 km
Date Date

90,000 mi mi/km 130,000 mi mi/km


144,000 km 208,000 km
Date Date

95,000 mi mi/km 135,000 mi mi/km


152,000 km 216,000 km
Date Date

100,000 mi mi/km 140,000 mi mi/km


160,000 km 224,000 km
(or 5 years) Date (or 7 years) Date

105,000 mi mi/km 145,000 mi mi/km


168,000 km 232,000 km
Date Date

110,000 mi mi/km 150,000 mi mi/km


176,000 km 240,000 km
Date Date

115,000 mi mi/km 155,000 mi mi/km


184,000 km 248,000 km
Date Date

120,000 mi mi/km 160,000 mi mi/km


192,000 km 256,000 km
(or 6 years) Date (or 8 years) Date

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Fluid Locations

ENGINE OIL
FILL CAP BRAKE FLUID
(Gray cap)

ENGINE OIL
DIPSTICK
(Orange tab)

POWER
STEERING FLUID
(Red cap) CLUTCH FLUID
(5-speed Manual
Transmission only)
WASHER FLUID (Gray cap)
(Blue cap)

ENGINE AUTOMATIC
COOLANT TRANSMISSION
RESERVOIR FLUID DIPSTICK
(Yellow loop)

RADIATOR CAP

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Adding Engine Oil

Adding Engine Oil Recommended Engine Oil Honda Motor Oil is the preferred
Oil is a major contributor to your 5W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. It is
ENGINE OIL FILL CAP engine’s performance and longevity. highly recommended that you use
Always use a premium-grade 5W-20 Honda Motor Oil in your vehicle for
detergent oil displaying the API optimum engine protection. Make
Certification Seal. This seal indicates sure the API Certification Seal says
the oil is energy conserving, and that ‘‘For Gasoline Engines’’.
it meets the American Petroleum
Institute’s latest requirements. The oil viscosity or weight is
provided on the container’s label.
5W-20 oil is formulated for year-
round protection of your Honda to
improve cold weather starting and
fuel economy.
Unscrew and remove the engine oil
fill cap on top of the valve cover.
Pour in the oil slowly and carefully so
you do not spill. Clean up any spills
immediately. Spilled oil could
damage components in the engine
compartment. Install the engine oil API CERTIFICATION SEAL
fill cap, and tighten it securely. Wait
a few minutes, and recheck the oil
level. Do not fill above the upper
mark; you could damage the engine. Ambient Temperature

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Adding Engine Oil, Changing the Oil and Filter

Synthetic Oil Changing the Oil and Filter WASHER


You may use a synthetic motor oil if Always change the oil and filter
it meets the same requirements according to the recommendations in
given for a conventional motor oil: it the maintenance schedule. The oil
displays the API Certification Seal and filter collect contaminants that
and it is the proper weight. You must can damage your engine if they are
follow the oil and filter change not removed regularly.
intervals given on the maintenance
schedule. Changing the oil and filter requires
special tools and access from
Engine Oil Additives underneath the vehicle. The vehicle
Your Honda does not require any oil should be raised on a service station- OIL DRAIN BOLT
additives. Additives may adversely type hydraulic lift for this service.
affect your engine’s or transmission’s Unless you have the knowledge and 1. Run the engine until it reaches
performance and durability. proper equipment, you should have normal operating temperature,
this maintenance done by a skilled then shut it off.
mechanic.
2. Open the hood and remove the
engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil
drain bolt and washer from the
bottom of the engine. Drain the oil
into an appropriate container.

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Changing the Oil and Filter

OIL FILTER 5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt,


then reinstall the drain bolt.
Tighten it to: Improper disposal of engine oil can be
33 lbf·ft (44 N·m , 4.5 kgf·m) harmf ul to the environment. If you
change your own oil, please dispose of
6. Refill the engine with the recom- the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed
mended oil. container, and take it to a recycling
center. Do not discard it in a trash bin
Engine oil change capacity or dump it on the ground.
(including filter):
4.4 US qt (4.2 )

7. Replace the engine oil fill cap.


3. Remove the oil filter and let the Start the engine. The oil pressure
remaining oil drain. A special indicator should go out within 5
wrench (available from your seconds. If it does not, turn off the
Honda dealer) is required. engine and check your work.

4. Install a new oil filter according to 8. Let the engine run for several
the instructions that come with it. minutes, then check the drain bolt
and oil filter for leaks.

9. Turn off the engine and let it sit


for several minutes, then check
the oil level on the dipstick. If
necessary, add more oil.

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Engine Coolant

Adding Engine Coolant Always use Honda All Season If the reserve tank is completely
Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This empty, you should also check the
RESERVE TANK coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent coolant level in the radiator.
antifreeze and 50 percent water.
Never add straight antifreeze or
plain water.
Removing the radiator cap
If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not while the engine is hot can
available, you may use another cause the coolant to spray out,
major-brand non-silicate coolant as a seriously scalding you.
temporary replacement. Make sure it
is a high-quality coolant Always let the engine and
recommended for aluminum engines. radiator cool down before
Continued use of any non-Honda removing the radiator cap.
If the coolant level in the reserve coolant can result in corrosion,
tank is at or below the MIN line, add causing the cooling system to
coolant to bring it up to between the malfunction or fail. Have the cooling
MIN and MAX lines. Inspect the system flushed and refilled with
cooling system for leaks. Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as
possible.

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Engine Coolant, Windshield Washers

3. The coolant level should be up to Windshield Washers


the base of the filler neck. Add Check the level in the windshield
RADIATOR CAP
coolant if it is low. washer reservoir at least monthly
during normal use.
Pour the coolant slowly and Canadian Models: The low washer
carefully so you do not spill. Clean level indicator will light when the
up any spill immediately; it could level is low (see page 57 ).
damage components in the engine Fill the reservoir with a good-quality
compartment. windshield washer fluid. This
increases the cleaning capability and
4. Put the radiator cap back on and prevents freezing in cold weather.
tighten it. When you refill the reservoir, clean
the edges of the windshield wiper
5. Pour coolant into the reserve tank. blades with windshield washer fluid
1. When the radiator and engine are Fill it to halfway between the MAX on a clean cloth. This will help to
cool, relieve any pressure in the and MIN marks. Put the cap back condition the blade edges.
cooling system by turning the on the reserve tank.
radiator cap counterclockwise,
without pressing down. Do not add any rust inhibitors or Do not use engine antif reeze or a
other additives to your vehicle’s vinegar/water solution in the
2. Remove the radiator cap by cooling system. They may not be windshield washer reservoir. Antif reeze
pushing down and turning compatible with the coolant or can damage your vehicle’s paint, while
counterclockwise. engine components. a vinegar/water solution can damage
the windshield washer pump. Use only
commercially-available windshield
washer f luid.

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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.

Always use Honda ATF-Z1


(Automatic Transmission Fluid). If
it’s not available, you may use a
UPPER DEXRON III automatic
MARK transmission fluid as a temporary
LOWER replacement. However, continued
MARK
use can affect the shift quality.
Have the transmission flushed and
refilled with Honda ATF-Z1 as
soon as it is convenient.
Check the fluid level with the engine 3. Insert the dipstick all the way into
at normal operating temperature. the transmission. To thoroughly flush the
transmission, the technician
1. Park the vehicle on level ground. 4. Remove the dipstick and check should drain and refill it with
Shut off the engine. the fluid level. It should be Honda ATF-Z1, then drive the
between the upper and lower vehicle for a short distance. Do
2. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) marks. this three times. Then drain and
from the transmission, and wipe it refill the transmission a final time.
with a clean cloth.

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Transmission Fluid

6. Insert the dipstick all the way back 5-speed Manual Transmission Put a new washer on the filler bolt,
into the transmission. then reinstall the filler bolt and
WASHER FILLER BOLT tighten it securely.
The transmission should be drained
and refilled with new fluid according If Honda MTF is not available, you
to the time and distance recommen- may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40
dations in the maintenance schedule. viscosity motor oil with the API
Certification seal that says ‘‘FOR
If you are not sure how to add fluid, GASOLINE ENGINES’’ as a
contact your Honda dealer. temporary replacement. However,
motor oil does not contain the proper
additives, and continued use can
Correct level cause stiffer shifting. Replace as
soon as it is convenient.
Check the fluid level with the
transmission at normal operating The transmission should be drained
temperature and the vehicle sitting and refilled with new fluid according
on level ground. Remove the to the time and distance
transmission filler bolt and carefully recommendations in the
feel inside the bolt hole with your maintenance schedule.
finger. The fluid level should be up
to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is If you are not sure how to add fluid,
not, add Honda Manual contact your Honda dealer.
Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it
starts to run out of the hole.

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Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake Fluid Clutch Fluid


MAX
Check the brake fluid level in the Manual Transmission only
reservoirs monthly. Replace brake
fluid according to the time MAX
recommendation in the maintenance
schedule.

Always use Honda Heavy Duty


Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not
available, you should use only DOT 3
MIN
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed
container, as a temporary
replacement.
The fluid level should be between MIN
Using any non-Honda brake fluid can the MIN and MAX marks on the side
cause corrosion and decrease the life of the reservoir. If the level is at or The fluid level should be between
of the system. Have the brake below the MIN mark, your brake the MIN and MAX marks on the side
system flushed and refilled with system needs attention. Have the of the reservoir. If it is not, add
Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid brake system inspected for leaks or brake fluid to bring it up to that level.
DOT 3 as soon as possible. worn brake pads. Use the same fluid specified for the
brake system.
Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not
compatible with your vehicle’s Low fluid level can indicate a leak in
braking system and can cause the clutch system. Have this system
extensive damage. inspected as soon as possible.

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Power Steering Fluid, Cleaning the Body Panels

Power Steering Fluid Always use Honda Power Steering Cleaning the Body Panels
Fluid. You may use another power To clean the gray composite body
UPPER LEVEL steering fluid as an emergency panels, wash them with soap and
replacement, but have the power water only. Do not apply any wax to
steering system flushed and refilled the panels; it will cause discoloration.
with Honda PSF as soon as possible.

A low power steering fluid level can


indicate a leak in the system. Check
the fluid level frequently, and have
the system inspected as soon as
possible.
LOWER LEVEL

Check the level on the side of the


reservoir when the engine is cold. Turning the steering wheel to f ull lef t
The fluid should be between the or right lock and holding it there can
UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL. damage the power steering pump.
If not, add power steering fluid to the
UPPER LEVEL.

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Lights

Headlight Aiming Replacing a Headlight Bulb


The headlights were properly aimed Your vehicle has halogen headlight
when your vehicle was new. If you bulbs. Handle it by its steel base and
regularly carry heavy items in the protect the glass from contact with
cargo area or pull a trailer, a your skin or hard objects. If you
readjustment may be required. touch the glass, clean it with
Adjustments should be performed by denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.
a Honda dealer or other qualified
mechanic.

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot


when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch
on the glass can cause the bulb to
overheat and shatter. 1. Open the hood.
If you need to change the
headlight bulb on the driver’s side,
remove the front end of the air
intake duct by pulling it out.

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Lights

5. Insert the new bulb into the hole, Replacing a Front Parking/Turn
making sure the tabs are in their Signal Light Bulb
slots. Pivot the hold-down wire
back in place, and clip the end into
the slot.

6. Reinstall the rubber seal. Make


sure it is right side up; it is marked
‘‘TOP.’’

7. Push the electrical connector onto


the new bulb.

2. Remove the electrical connector 8. (Driver’s side)


from the bulb by pulling the Install the front end of the air
connector straight back. intake duct. 1. The front parking/turn signal light
is next to the headlight bulb. On
3. Remove the rubber weather seal the driver’s side, remove the front
by pulling on the tab. end of the air intake duct by
pulling it out.
4. Unclip the end of the hold-down
wire from its slot. Pivot it out of 2. Remove the socket from the
the way and remove the bulb. headlight assembly by turning it
one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

CONTINUED

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Lights

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

4. Insert the socket back into the


headlight assembly. Turn it
clockwise to lock it in place.

5. Test the lights to make sure the


new bulb is working.

6. (Driver’s side)
Install the front end of the air
intake duct.

1. Place a cloth between the trim of 2. Remove the socket from the light
the lens and the body, at the top of assembly by turning it one-quarter
the lens. Remove the front side turn counterclockwise.
marker light assembly by carefully
prying on the trim of the lens with 3. Pull the bulb straight out of its
a small flat-tipped screwdriver. socket. Push the new bulb straight
into the socket until it bottoms.

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Lights

4. Put the socket back into the light Replacing Rear Bulbs
assembly and turn it clockwise to
lock it in place.

5. Turn on the lights to make sure


the new bulb is working.

6. Put the light assembly back into


the body, bottom first. Push on the
top edge until it snaps into place.

1. Open the hatch and the tailgate. 3. Remove the socket by turning it
Remove the two mounting screws one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
with a Phillips-head screwdriver,
and remove the taillight assembly 4. Pull the bulb straight out of its
from the body by pulling it back. socket. Push the new bulb straight
into the socket until it bottoms.
2. Determine which of the three
bulbs is burned out: brake/
taillight, turn signal light or back-
up light.

CONTINUED

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Lights, Seat Belts, Dust and Pollen Filter

5. Reinstall the socket into the light Seat Belts Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat
assembly by turning it clockwise belt anchors can cause the belts to
until it locks. LOOP retract slowly. Wipe the insides of
the loops with a clean cloth
6. Test the lights to make sure the dampened in mild soap and warm
new bulb is working. water or isopropyl alcohol.

7. When reinstalling the taillight Dust and Pollen Filter


assembly, first place the two pins This filter removes the dust and
in the holes in place. Tighten the pollen that is brought in from the
two mounting bolts. outside through the heating and
cooling system/climate control
system.

If your seat belts get dirty, use a soft Have your Honda dealer replace this
brush with a mixture of mild soap filter every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
and warm water to clean them. Do under normal conditions. It should
not use bleach, dye, or cleaning be replaced every 15,000 miles
solvents. Let the belts air-dry before (24,000 km) if you drive primarily in
you use the vehicle. urban areas that have high
concentrations of soot in the air, or if
the flow from the climate control
system becomes less than usual.

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Wiper Blades

Check the condition of the wiper


blades at least every six months.
Replace them if you find signs of
cracking in the rubber, areas that are
getting hard, or if they leave streaks
and unwiped areas when used.

1. Front:
Raise the wiper arm off the
windshield.
BLADE
LOCK TAB

Do not open the hood when the wiper 2. Disconnect the blade assembly 4. Examine the new wiper blades. If
arms are raised, or you will damage from the wiper arm by pushing in they have no plastic or metal
the hood and the arms. the lock tab. Hold the lock tab in reinforcement along the back
while you push the blade assembly edge, remove the metal
Rear: toward the base of the arm. reinforcement strips from the old
Raise the wiper arm off the hatch wiper blade, and install them in
glass and hold it. If you are changing the rear wiper the slots along the edge of the new
blade, go to step 6. blade.

3. Remove the blade from its holder


by grasping the tabbed end of the
blade. Pull firmly until the tabs
come out of the holder. CONTINUED

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Wiper Blades, Tires

Tires Inflation
BLADE To safely operate your vehicle, your Keeping the tires properly inflated
tires must be the proper type and provides the best combination of
size, in good condition with adequate handling, tread life, and riding
tread, and correctly inflated. comfort.

The following pages give more Underinflated tires wear unevenly,


detailed information on how to take adversely affect handling and fuel
care of your tires and what to do economy, and are more likely to
when they need to be replaced. fail from being overheated.
REINFORCEMENT
Overinflated tires can make your
vehicle ride more harshly, are
5. Slide the new wiper blade into the Using tires that are excessively more prone to damage from road
holder until the tabs lock. worn or improperly inflated can hazards, and wear unevenly.
cause a crash in which you can
6. Slide the wiper blade assembly be seriously hurt or killed. We recommend that you visually
onto the wiper arm. Make sure it check your tires every day. If you
locks in place. Follow all instructions in this think a tire might be low, check it
owner’s manual regarding tire immediately with a tire gauge.
7. Lower the wiper arm down against inflation and maintenance.
the windshield or the hatch glass.

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Tires

Use a gauge to measure the air If you check the pressure when the Recommended Tire Pressures for
pressure at least once a month. Even tires are hot [the vehicle has been Normal Driving
tires that are in good condition may driven several miles (kilometers)],
lose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1 you will see readings 4 to 6 psi (30 to Tire Size Cold Tire Pressure
to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4 kgf/cm ) higher for Normal Driving
Remember to check the spare tire at than the cold reading. This is Front:
the same time. normal; do not release air to match 32 psi (220 kPa ,
the cold pressure. P215/70R16 99S 2.2 kgf/cm )
Check the pressure in the tires when Rear:
they are cold. This means the vehicle You should get your own tire 34 psi (235 kPa ,
has been parked for at least three pressure gauge and use it whenever 2.4 kgf/cm )
hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 you check your tire pressures. This
km). will make it easier for you to tell if a The compact spare tire pressure is:
pressure loss is due to a tire problem 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )
Add or release air, if needed, to and not due to a variation between
match the recommended cold tire gauges. For convenience, the recommended
pressure. tire sizes and cold air pressures are
on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

For additional technical information


about your tires, see page 208 .

Tubeless tires have some ability to


self-seal if they are punctured. You
should look closely for punctures if a
tire starts losing pressure.

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Tires

Tire Inspection INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS Tire Maintenance


Every time you check inflation, you In addition to proper inflation,
should also examine the tires for correct wheel alignment helps to
damage, foreign objects, and wear. decrease tire wear. If you find a tire
is worn unevenly, have your dealer
You should look for: check the wheel alignment.

Bumps or bulges in the tread or Have your dealer check the tires if
side of the tire. Replace the tire if you feel a consistent vibration while
you find either of these conditions. driving. A tire should always be
rebalanced if it is removed from the
Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side TREAD WEAR INDICATORS wheel. When you have new tires
of the tire. Replace the tire if you installed, make sure they are
can see fabric or cord. balanced. This increases riding
comfort and tire life. For best results,
Excessive tread wear. Your tires have the installer perform a dynamic
have wear indicators molded into balance.
the tread. When you see a 3/8
inch (10 mm) wide band running
across the tread, there is less than
1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on On vehicles equipped with aluminum
the tire. A tire this worn gives very wheels, improper wheel weights can
little traction on wet roads. damage your wheels. Use only genuine
Replace the tire if you can see Honda wheel weights f or balancing.
three or more tread wear
indicators on the tire.

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Tires

Tire Rotation Replacing Tires and Wheels


The tires that came with your
Front Front vehicle were selected to match the Installing improper tires on your
performance capabilities of the vehicle can affect handling and
vehicle while providing the best stability. This can cause a crash
combination of handling, ride in which you can be seriously
comfort, and long life. hurt or killed.

Replace your tires with radial tires of Always use the size and type of
the same size, load range, speed tires recommended in this
rating, and maximum cold tire owner’s manual.
(For Non-directional (For Directional pressure rating (as shown on the
Tires and Wheels) Tires and Wheels) tire’s sidewall). Mixing radial and
bias-ply tires on your vehicle can Wheels and Tires
To help increase tire life and reduce braking ability, traction, and
distribute wear more evenly, rotate steering accuracy. Using tires of a Wheels:
the tires every 10,000 miles (16,000 different size or construction can 16 x 6 1/2JJ
km). Move the tires to the positions cause the ABS to work inconsistently.
shown in the chart each time they Tires:
are rotated. If you purchase It is best to replace all four tires at P215/70R16 99S
directional tires, rotate only front-to- the same time. If that is not possible
back. or necessary, then replace the two See page 206 for DOT tire quality
front tires or the rear tires as a pair. grading information, and page
Replacing just one tire can seriously 208 for tire size explanation.
affect your vehicle’s handling.
CONTINUED

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Tires

The ABS works by comparing the Snow Tires When installing cables, follow the
speed of the wheels. When replacing If you mount snow tires on your manufacturer’s instructions, and
tires, use the same size originally Honda, make sure they are radial mount them as tight as you can.
supplied with the vehicle. Tire size tires of the same size and load range Make sure they are not contacting
and construction can affect wheel as original tires. Mount snow tires on the brake lines or suspension. Drive
speed and may cause the system to all four wheels. The traction slowly with them installed. If you
work inconsistently. provided by snow tires on dry roads hear them coming into contact with
may be lower than your original tires. the body or chassis, stop and
If you ever need to replace a wheel, Check with the tire dealer for investigate. Remove them as soon as
make sure the wheel’s specifications maximum speed recommendations. you begin driving on cleared roads.
match those of the original wheel
that came on your vehicle. Tire Chains
Replacement wheels are available at Because your Honda has limited tire
your Honda dealer. clearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’ Traction devices that are the wrong
cable-type traction devices on the size or improperly installed can
Winter Driving front tires. Use traction devices only damage your vehicle’s brake lines,
Tires marked ‘‘M + S’’ or ‘‘All when required by driving conditions suspension, body, and wheels. Stop
Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- or local laws. Make sure they are the driving if they are hitting any part of
weather tread design suitable for correct size for your tires. Metal link- the vehicle.
most winter driving conditions. type ‘‘chains’’ should not be used.

For the best performance in snowy


or icy conditions, you should install
snow tires or tire chains. They may
be required by local laws under
certain conditions.

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Checking the Battery

Check the terminals for corrosion (a If additional battery maintenance is


white or yellowish powder). To needed, see your Honda dealer or a
remove it, cover the terminals with a qualified technician.
solution of baking soda and water. It
will bubble up and turn brown. When WARNING: Battery posts,
this stops, wash it off with plain terminals, and related accessories
water. Dry off the battery with a contain lead and lead compounds.
cloth or paper towel. Coat the Wash your hands after handling.
terminals with grease to help prevent
future corrosion.

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW The battery gives off explosive


hydrogen gas during normal
Check the condition of the battery operation.
monthly by looking at the test
indicator window. The label on the A spark or flame can cause the
battery explains the test indicator’s battery to explode with enough
colors. force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a


face shield, or have a skilled
mechanic do the battery
maintenance.

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Vehicle Storage

If you need to park your vehicle for Block the rear wheels. Cover the vehicle with a
an extended period (more than one ‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made
month), there are several things you If the vehicle is to be stored for a from a porous material such as
should do to prepare it for storage. longer period, it should be cotton. Non-porous materials, such
Proper preparation helps prevent supported on jackstands so the as plastic sheeting, trap moisture,
deterioration and makes it easier to tires are off the ground. which can damage the paint.
get your vehicle back on the road. If
possible, store your vehicle indoors. Leave one window open slightly (if If possible, run the engine
the vehicle is being stored periodically until it reaches full
Fill the fuel tank. indoors). operating temperature (the
cooling fan cycles on and off
Change the engine oil and filter. Disconnect the battery. twice). Preferably do this once a
month.
Wash and dry the exterior Support the front and rear wiper
completely. blade arms with a folded towel or If you store your vehicle for 12
rag so they do not touch the months or longer, have your Honda
Clean the interior. Make sure the windshield. dealer perform the inspections called
carpeting, floor mats, etc., are for in the 24 months maintenance
completely dry. To minimize sticking, apply a schedule (Normal Conditions) as
silicone spray lubricant to all door soon as you take it out of storage
Leave the parking brake off. Put and tailgate seals. Also, apply a (see page 152 ). The replacements
the transmission in Reverse vehicle body wax to the painted called for in the maintenance
(5-speed manual) or Park surfaces that mate with the door schedule are not needed unless the
(automatic). and tailgate seals. vehicle has actually reached that
time or mileage.

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Compact Spare Tire

Your vehicle has a compact spare Do not mount snow chains on the INDICATOR LOCATION MARK
tire that takes up less space. Use this compact spare tire.
spare tire as a temporary replace-
ment only. Get your regular tire Do not use the compact spare tire
repaired or replaced and put it back if you are towing a trailer.
on your vehicle as soon as you can.
The wheel of the compact spare
Check the inflation pressure of the tire is designed especially to fit
compact spare tire every time you your vehicle. Do not use your
check the other tires. It should be spare tire on another vehicle
inflated to: unless it is the same make and
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm ) model. TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

Follow these precautions whenever The compact spare tire has a shorter
you are using the compact spare tire: tread life than a regular tire. Replace
it when you can see the tread wear
Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) indicator bars. The replacement
under any circumstances. should be the same size and design
tire, mounted on the same wheel.
This tire gives a harsher ride and The compact spare tire is not
less traction on some road designed to be mounted on a regular
surfaces than the regular tire. Use wheel, and the compact wheel is not
greater caution while driving on designed for mounting a regular tire.
this tire.

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Changing a Flat Tire

If you have a flat tire while driving, 1. Park the vehicle on firm, level and TOOLS
stop in a safe place to change it. non-slippery ground. Put the
Drive slowly along the shoulder until transmission in Park (automatic)
you get to an exit or an area to stop or Reverse (manual). Apply the
that is far away from the traffic lanes. parking brake.
If you are towing a trailer, unhitch
the trailer.

The vehicle can easily roll off 2. Turn on the hazard warning lights,
the jack, seriously injuring and turn the ignition switch to
anyone underneath. LOCK (0). Have all the SPARE TIRE
passengers get out of the vehicle JACK
Follow the directions for while you change the tire.
changing a tire exactly, and 3. Open the hatch and the tailgate.
never get under the vehicle
when it is supported only by the 4. The spare tire, jack, and tools are
jack. under the cargo area floor.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

JACK WHEEL NUTS

5. Push the rear edge of the handle 6. Unscrew the wing bolt and take 8. Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2
to raise the handle loop and pull up the spare tire out of the cargo area. turn with the wheel wrench.
the loop to raise the cargo area
floor. 7. Remove the tools and the jack. To
remove the jack, turn the jack’s
end bracket counterclockwise to
loosen it.

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Changing a Flat Tire

EXTENSION

BRAKE HUB
JACKING POINTS WHEEL WRENCH

9. Locate the jacking point nearest 10.Use the extension and wheel 12. Wipe any dirt off the mounting
the tire you need to change. It is wrench as shown to raise the surface of the wheel and hub with
pointed to by an arrow molded into vehicle until the flat tire is off the a clean cloth. Wipe the hub
the underside of the body. Place ground. carefully, it may be hot from
the jack under the jacking point. driving.
Turn the end bracket clockwise 11. Remove the wheel nuts and flat
until the top of the jack contacts tire. Temporarily place the flat tire 13. Put on the spare tire. Put the
the jacking point. Make sure the on the ground with the outside wheel nuts back on finger-tight,
jacking point tab is resting in the surface of the wheel facing up. then tighten them in a crisscross
jack notch. pattern with the wheel wrench
until the wheel is firmly against
the hub. Do not try to tighten
them fully. CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

16.Store the jack in its holder. Turn


the jack’s end bracket to lock it in
place. Store the tools.

17.Remove the center cap from the


flat tire, and store it in the spare
tire well.

Loose items can fly around the


interior in a crash and could
seriously injure the occupants.
14. Lower the vehicle to the ground 18.Remove the wing bolt on the spare
and remove the jack. Store the wheel, jack, and tools tire mount, and pivot the arm 90°
securely before driving. to the upright position. Then
15. Tighten the wheel nuts securely in tighten the wing bolt securely.
the same crisscross pattern. Have
the wheel nut torque checked at
the nearest automotive service
facility.
Tighten the wheel nuts to:
80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

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Changing a Flat Tire

22.Secure the flat tire by screwing


the wing bolt to the spare tire
mount through the hole in the
cargo area floor.

19.Remove the small round plug from 20.Reinstall the cargo area floor.
the cargo area floor by pushing it Place the flat tire face down on the
from the back side to make a hole. cargo area floor.
Store the removed plug in a place
you can easily remember. 21.Align the center of the flat tire
with the hole in the cargo area
floor. Remove the spacer cone
from the wing bolt, turn it over,
and put it back on the bolt.

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If the Engine Won’t Start

Diagnosing why the engine won’t Nothing Happens or the Starter Turn the ignition switch to START
start falls into two areas, depending Motor Operates Very Slowly (III). If the headlights do not dim,
on what you hear when you turn the When you turn the ignition switch to check the condition of the fuses. If
key to START (III): START (III), you do not hear the the fuses are OK, there is
normal noise of the engine trying to probably something wrong with
You hear nothing, or almost start. You may hear a clicking sound the electrical circuit for the
nothing. The engine’s starter or series of clicks, or nothing at all. ignition switch or starter motor.
motor does not operate at all, or Check these things: You will need a qualified
operates very slowly. technician to determine the
Check the transmission interlock. problem (see Emergency Towing
You can hear the starter motor If you have a manual transmission, on page 195 ).
operating normally, or the starter the clutch pedal must be pushed
motor sounds like it is spinning all the way to the floor or the If the headlights dim noticeably or
faster than normal, but the engine starter will not operate. With an go out when you try to start the
does not start up and run. automatic transmission, it must be engine, either the battery is dis-
in Park or Neutral. charged or the connections are
corroded. Check the condition of the
Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). battery and terminal connections
Turn on the headlights, and check (see page 177 ). You can then try
their brightness. If the headlights jump starting the vehicle from a
are very dim or don’t light at all, booster battery (see page 188 ).
the battery is discharged. See
Jump Starting on page 188 .

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If the Engine Won’t Start

The Starter Operates Normally Do you have fuel? Check the fuel
In this case, the starter motor’s gauge; the low fuel indicator may
speed sounds normal, or even faster not be working.
than normal, when you turn the
ignition switch to START (III), but There may be an electrical
the engine does not run. problem, such as no power to the
fuel pump. Check all the fuses
Are you using a properly coded (see page 196).
key? An improperly coded key will
cause the immobilizer system If you find nothing wrong, you will
indicator in the instrument panel need a qualified technician to find
to blink rapidly (see page 66 ). the problem. See Emergency
Towing on page 195 .
Are you using the proper starting
procedure? Refer to Starting the
Engine on page 124 .

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Jump Starting

Although this seems like a simple To Jump Start Your Vehicle: 2. Turn off all the electrical acces-
procedure, you should take several 1. Open the hood, and check the sories: heater, A/C, stereo system,
precautions. physical condition of the battery. lights, etc. Put the transmission in
In very cold weather, check the Neutral or Park, and set the
condition of the electrolyte. If it parking brake.
seems slushy or like ice, do not try
A battery can explode if you do jump starting until it thaws.
not follow the correct procedure,
seriously injuring anyone
nearby.
If a battery sits in extreme cold, the
Keep all sparks, open flames, electrolyte inside can f reeze.
and smoking materials away Attempting to jump start with a f rozen
from the battery. battery can cause it to rupture.

You cannot start a Honda with an


automatic transmission by pushing
or pulling it.

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Jump Starting

5. If the booster battery is in another


vehicle, have an assistant start
that vehicle and run it at a fast idle.

6. Start your vehicle. If the starter


motor still operates slowly, check
the jumper cable connections to
make sure they have good metal-
to-metal contact.

7. Once your vehicle is running,


disconnect the negative cable from
your vehicle, then from the
3. Connect one jumper cable to the 4. Connect the second jumper cable booster battery. Disconnect the
positive (+) terminal on your to the negative (−) terminal on positive cable from your vehicle,
battery. Connect the other end to the booster battery. Connect the then from the booster battery.
the positive (+) terminal on the other end to the grounding strap
booster battery. as shown. Do not connect this Keep the ends of the jumper cables
jumper cable to any other part of away from each other and any metal
the engine. on the vehicle until all are
disconnected. Otherwise, you may
cause an electrical short.

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If the Engine Overheats

The pointer of the vehicle’s 3. If you do not see steam or spray,


temperature gauge should stay in leave the engine running, and
the midrange. If it climbs to the red Steam and spray from an watch the temperature gauge. If
mark, you should determine the overheated engine can the high heat is due to overloading,
reason (hot day, driving up a steep seriously scald you. the engine should start to cool
hill, etc.). down almost immediately. If it
Do not open the hood if steam does, wait until the temperature
If the vehicle overheats, you should is coming out. gauge comes down to the midpoint,
take immediate action. The only then continue driving.
indication may be the temperature
gauge climbing to or above the red 1. Safely pull to the side of the road. 4. If the temperature gauge stays at
mark. Or you may see steam or Put the transmission in Neutral or the red mark, turn off the engine.
spray coming from under the hood. Park, and set the parking brake.
Turn off all accessories, and turn
on the hazard warning lights.

Driving with the temperature gauge 2. If you see steam and/or spray
pointer at the red mark can cause coming from under the hood, turn
serious damage to your engine. off the engine. Wait until you see
no more signs of steam or spray,
then open the hood.

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If the Engine Overheats

5. Look for any obvious coolant leaks, 9. Start the engine, and set the
such as a split radiator hose. temperature control dial to
Everything is still extremely hot, Removing the radiator cap maximum. Add coolant to the
so use caution. If you find a leak, it while the engine is hot can radiator up to the base of the filler
must be repaired before you cause the coolant to spray out, neck. If you do not have the
continue driving (see Emergency seriously scalding you. proper coolant mixture available,
Towing on page 195 ). you can add plain water.
Always let the engine and Remember to have the cooling
6. If you don’t find an obvious leak, radiator cool down before system drained and refilled with
check the coolant level in the removing the radiator cap. the proper mixture as soon as you
radiator reserve tank (see page can.
113 ).
8. Using gloves or large heavy cloth, 10.Put the radiator cap back on
7. If there was no coolant in the turn the radiator cap tightly. Run the engine, and watch
reserve tank, you may need to add counterclockwise, without pushing the temperature gauge. If it goes
coolant to the radiator. Let the down, to the first stop. After the back to the red mark, the engine
engine cool down until the pointer pressure releases, push down on needs repair (see Emergency
reaches the middle of the the cap, and turn it until it comes Towing on page 195 ).
temperature gauge or lower off.
before checking the radiator. 11.If the temperature stays normal,
check the coolant level in the
radiator reserve tank. If it has
gone down, add coolant to the
MAX mark. Put the cap back on
tightly.

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Low Oil Pressure Indicator, Charging System Indicator

Low Oil Pressure Indicator 1. Safely pull off the road, and shut Charging System Indicator
This light should never off the engine. Turn on the hazard If the charging system
come on when the engine is warning lights. indicator comes on brightly
running. If it starts flashing or stays when the engine is running, the
on, the oil pressure has dropped very 2. Let the vehicle sit for a minute. battery is not being charged.
low. Serious engine damage is Open the hood, and check the oil
possible and you should take level (see page 113 ). An engine Immediately turn off all electrical
immediate action. very low on oil can lose pressure accessories. Try not to use other
during cornering and other driving electrically operated controls such as
maneuvers. the power windows. Keep the engine
running; starting the engine will
Running the engine with low oil 3. If necessary, add oil to bring the discharge the battery rapidly.
pressure can cause serious mechanical level back to the full mark on the
damage almost immediately. Turn of f dipstick (see page 157 ). Go to a service station or garage
the engine as soon as you can saf ely get where you can get technical
the vehicle stopped. 4. Start the engine, and watch the oil assistance.
pressure light. If it does not go out
within ten seconds, turn off the
engine. There is a mechanical
problem that needs to be repaired
before you can continue driving.
(See Emergency Towing on page
195 ).

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp

If the indicator comes on If the indicator comes on repeatedly, If your vehicle battery has been
while driving, it means one even though it may turn off as you disconnected or gone dead, these
of the engine’s emissions control continue driving, have the vehicle codes are erased. It takes at least
systems may have a problem. Even checked by the dealer as soon as three days of driving under various
though you may feel no difference in possible. conditions to set the codes again.
your vehicle’s performance, it can
reduce your fuel economy and cause To check if they are set, turn the
increased emissions. Continued ignition to ON (II), without starting
operation may cause serious damage. If you keep driving with the the engine. The Malfunction
malf unction indicator lamp on, you can Indicator Lamp will come on for 20
If you have recently refueled your damage your vehicle’s emissions seconds. If it then goes off, the
vehicle, the indicator coming on controls and engine. Those repairs may readiness codes are set. If it blinks 5
could be due to a loose or missing not be covered by your vehicle’s times, the readiness codes are not
fuel fill cap. Tighten the cap until it warranties. set. If possible, do not take your
clicks at least three times. vehicle for a state emissions test
Tightening the cap will not turn the Readiness Codes until the readiness codes are set.
indicator off immediately; it takes at Your vehicle has certain ‘‘readiness Refer to State Emissions Testing for
least three days of normal driving. codes’’ that are part of the on-board more information, on page 212 .
diagnostics for the emissions
systems. In some states, part of the
emissions testing is to make sure
these codes are set. If they are not
set, the test cannot be completed.

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Brake System Indicator

U.S. If the brake system However, if the brake pedal does not
indicator comes on while feel normal, you should take
driving, the brake fluid immediate action. A problem in one
Canada level is probably low. Press part of the system’s dual circuit
lightly on the brake pedal if design will still give you braking at
it feels normal. If it does two wheels. You will feel the brake
not, check the brake fluid pedal go down much farther before
level the next time you stop the vehicle begins to slow down, and
at a service station (see you will have to press harder on the
page 164 ). pedal.

If the fluid level is low, take your Slow down by shifting to a lower
vehicle to a dealer and have the gear, and pull to the side of the road
brake system inspected for leaks or when it is safe. Because of the long
worn brake pads. distance needed to stop, it is
hazardous to drive the vehicle. You
should have it towed and repaired as
soon as possible (see Emergency
Towing on page 195 ).

If you must drive the vehicle a short


distance in this condition, drive
slowly and carefully.

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Emergency Towing

If your vehicle needs to be towed, Refer to Towing Your Vehicle


call a professional towing service or Behind a Motorhome on page
an organization. Never tow your Towing with only two tires on the 141 for non-emergency towing
vehicle with just a rope or chain. It is ground will damage parts of the 4WD information.
very dangerous. system. It should be transported on a
f lat-bed truck or trailer.
The only way you can safely tow
your vehicle is with flat-bed
equipment. The operator will load
your vehicle on the back of a truck.
Any other method of towing will
damage the drive system. When you
contact the towing agency, inform
them a flat-bed is required.

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Fuses

INTERIOR UNDER-HOOD Checking and Replacing Fuses


If something electrical in your
vehicle stops working, check for a
TAB blown fuse first. Determine from the
chart on pages 199 and 200 or the
diagram on the fuse box lid, which
fuse or fuses control that device.
Check those fuses first, but check all
the fuses before deciding that a
blown fuse is the cause. Replace any
blown fuses and check if the device
works.

The interior fuse box is underneath The vehicle’s fuses are located in 1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK
the steering column. To remove the two fuse boxes. The under-hood fuse (0). Make sure the headlights and
fuse box lid, turn the knobs box is located in the engine all other accessories are off.
counterclockwise and pull the lid out compartment on the driver’s side. To
of its hinges. open it, push the tabs as shown. 2. Remove the cover from the fuse
box.

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Fuses

FUSE If you cannot drive the vehicle


BLOWN without fixing the problem, and you
do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse
of the same rating or a lower rating
from one of the other circuits. Make
sure you can do without that circuit
temporarily (such as the accessory
power socket or radio).

If you replace the blown fuse with a


spare fuse that has a lower rating, it
BLOWN might blow out again. This does not
indicate anything wrong. Replace the
3. Check each of the large fuses in 4. Check the smaller fuses in the fuse with one of the correct rating as
the under-hood fuse box by under-hood fuse box and all the soon as you can.
looking through the top at the wire fuses in the interior fuse box by
inside. Remove the screws with a pulling out each fuse with the fuse
Phillips-head screwdriver. puller provided in the under-hood
fuse box.

5. Look for a burned wire inside the


fuse. If it is burned, replace it with
one of the spare fuses of the same
rating or lower.

CONTINUED

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Fuses

6. If the replacement fuse of the


same rating blows in a short time,
Replacing a f use with one that has a there is probably a serious
higher rating greatly increases the electrical problem in your vehicle.
chances of damaging the electrical Leave the blown fuse in that
system. If you do not have a circuit and have your vehicle
replacement f use with the proper rating checked by a qualified mechanic.
f or the circuit, install one with a lower
rating. On EX models
If the radio fuse is removed, the
audio system will disable itself. The
next time you turn on the radio you
will see ‘‘CODE’’ in the frequency
display. Use the preset buttons to
enter the five-digit code (see page
104 ).

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Fuse Locations

INTERIOR FUSE BOX


No. Amps. Circuits Protected

6 7.5 A Power Window Relay


7 20 A AMP
8 7.5 A Accessory, Radio
9 10 A Rear Wiper
10 7.5 A Meter
11 7.5 A ABS
12 7.5 A Daytime running lights*2
13 10 A SRS
14 10 A Remote Control Mirrors
15 20 A LAF Heater
16 − Not Used
17 15 A Fuel Pump
18 15 A Front Accessory Power
No. Amps. Circuits Protected Socket
19 7.5 A Turn Signal Lights
1 15 A Ignition Coil 20 20 A Front Wiper
2 15 A Rear Accessory Power 21 − Not Used
Socket*1 22 20 A Passenger’s Power Window
3 10 A Daytime running lights*2 23 20 A Driver’s Power Window
4 10 A ACG 24 − Not Used
5 − Not Used 25 − Not Used

*1 : For some types


*2 : On Canadian models CONTINUED
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Fuse Locations

UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX


No. Amps. Circuits Protected

1 30 A Condenser Fan
2 15 A Small Light
3 7.5 A Interior Light
4 20 A Cooling Fan Motor
5 15 A Hazard
6 15 A IGP
7 15 A Horn, Stop
8 − Not Used
9 10 A Back Up
10 30 A ABS Motor
11 20 A Rear Defroster
12 40 A Heater Motor
13 40 A Power Window
14 40 A Option
15 15 A Left Headlight
16 15 A Door Lock
17 15 A Right Headlight
18 30 A ABS F/S
19 100 A Battery
20 50 A Ignition 1
21−25 7.5A−30A Spare Fuses

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Identification Numbers

Your vehicle has several identifying


numbers located in various places. VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

The Vehicle Identification Number


(VIN) is the 17-digit number your
Honda dealer uses to register your
vehicle for warranty purposes. It is
also necessary for licensing and
insuring your vehicle. The easiest
place to find the VIN is on a plate
fastened to the top of the dashboard.
You can see it by looking through
the windshield on the driver’s side. It
is also on the Certification label at-
tached to the driver’s doorjamb
(front edge of rear door), and is
stamped on the engine compartment
bulkhead. The VIN is also provided
in bar code on the Certification label.

CERTIFICATION LABEL

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Identification Numbers

The Engine Number is stamped into AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER


the engine block.

The Transmission Number is on a


label on top of the transmission.

ENGINE NUMBER MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER

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Specifications

Dimensions
Length 169.3 in (4,300 mm) Engine Automatic Transmission
Width 71.5 in (1,815 mm) coolant Change*2 1.43 US gal (5.4 )
Height 70.4 in (1,788 mm) Total 1.88 US gal (7.1 )
Wheelbase 101.4 in (2,575 mm) Manual Transmission
Track Front 62.1 in (1,577 mm) Change*2 1.45 US gal (5.5 )
Rear 62.3 in (1,582 mm) Total 1.90 US gal (7.2 )
Automatic Change
Weights transmission 4WD 3.3 US qt (3.1 )
Gross vehicle weight rating See the certification label attached fluid 2WD 3.1 US qt (2.9 )
to the driver’s doorjamb (front Total
edge of rear door). 4WD 7.6 US qt (7.2 )
2WD 6.9 US qt (6.5 )
Engine Manual Change 2.0 US qt (1.9 )
Type Water cooled 4-stroke DOHC transmission Total
VTEC 4-cylinder gasoline engine fluid 4WD 2.4 US qt (2.3 )
Bore x Stroke 3.43 x 3.90 in (87.0 x 99.0 mm) 2WD 2.3 US qt (2.2 )
Displacement 144 cu-in (2,354 cm ) Rear Change 1.1 US qt (1.0 )
Compression ratio 9.7 : 1 differential Total 1.3 US qt (1.2 )
Spark plugs NGK: IZFR6K-11 fluid (4WD)
DENSO: SKJ20DR-M11 Windshield U.S. Vehicles 2.6 US qt (2.5 )
washer Canada 4.8 US qt (4.5 )
Capacities reservoir Vehicles
Fuel tank Approx.
15.9 US gal (60 ) *1 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.
Engine oil Change*1 *2 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the
Including filter 4.4 US qt (4.2 ) engine.
Without filter 4.2 US qt (4.0 ) Reserve tank capacity:
Total 5.6 US qt (5.3 ) 0.145 US gal (0.55 )

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Specifications

Air Conditioning Fuses


Refrigerant type HFC-134a (R-134a) Interior See page 199 or the fuse label
Charge quantity 16.9−18.7 oz (480−530 g) attached to the inside of the fuse
Lubricant type SP-10 box door under the steering
column.
Lights Under-hood See page 200 or the fuse box
Headlights 12 V − 60/55 W (H4/HB2) cover.
Front turn signal/parking 12 V − 21/5 W
lights Alignment
Front side marker lights 12 V − 3 CP Toe-in Front 0.0 in (0 mm)
Rear turn signal lights 12 V − 21 W Rear 0.08 in (2.0 mm)
Brake/Taillights 12 V − 21/5 W Camber Front −0°13’
Back-up lights 12 V − 18 W (21 CP) Rear −1°
License plate lights 12 V − 5W Caster Front 1°50’
Ceiling light 12 V − 8W
Spotlights 12 V − 4 CP Tires
Cargo area light 12 V − 8W Size Front/Rear P215/70R16 99S
High-mount brake light 12 V − 21 W Pressure Front 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )
Rear 34 psi (235 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm )
Battery
Capacity 12 V − 45 AH/20 HR

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Emissions Controls

The burning of gasoline in your The Clean Air Act case Ventilation valve routes them
vehicle’s engine produces several by- The United States Clean Air Act* from the crankcase back to the
products. Some of these are carbon sets standards for automobile intake manifold. They are then
monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen emissions. It also requires that drawn into the engine and burned.
(NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). automobile manufacturers explain to
Gasoline evaporating from the tank owners how their emissions controls Evaporative Emissions Control
also produces hydrocarbons. Con- work and what to do to maintain System
trolling the production of NOx, CO, them. This section summarizes how As gasoline evaporates in the fuel
and HC is important to the environ- the emissions controls work. tank, an evaporative emissions
ment. Under certain conditions of Scheduled maintenance is on page control canister filled with charcoal
sunlight and climate, NOx and HC 150 . adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this
react to form photochemical ‘‘smog.’’ canister while the engine is off. After

Carbon monoxide does not contri- In Canada, Honda vehicles comply the engine is started and warmed up,
bute to smog creation, but it is a with the Canadian emission the vapor is drawn into the engine
poisonous gas. requirements, as specified in an and burned during driving.
agreement with Environment
Canada, at the time they are Onboard Refueling Vapor
manufactured. Recovery
The Onboard Refueling Vapor
Crankcase Emissions Control Recovery (ORVR) system captures
System the fuel vapors during refueling. The
Your vehicle has a Positive vapors are adsorbed in a canister
Crankcase Ventilation System. This filled with activated carbon. While
keeps gasses that build up in the driving, the fuel vapors are drawn
engine’s crankcase from going into into the engine and burned off.
the atmosphere. The Positive Crank-

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Emissions Controls

Exhaust Emissions Controls PGM-FI System Replacement Parts


The exhaust emissions controls The PGM-FI System uses sequential The emissions control systems are
include three systems: PGM-FI, multiport fuel injection. designed and certified to work to-
Ignition Timing Control, and Three It has three subsystems: Air Intake, gether in reducing emissions to
Way Catalytic Converter. These Engine Control, and Fuel Control. levels that comply with the Clean Air
three systems work together to The Engine Control Module (ECM) Act. To make sure the emissions
control the engine’s combustion and or the Powertrain Control Module remain low, you should use only new
minimize the amount of HC, CO, and (PCM) uses various sensors to Honda replacement parts or their
NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The determine how much air is going equivalent for repairs. Using lower
exhaust emissions control systems into the engine. It then controls how quality parts may increase the
are separate from the crankcase and much fuel to inject under all operat- emissions from your vehicle.
evaporative emissions control ing conditions.
systems. The emissions control systems are
Ignition Timing Control System covered by warranties separate from
This system constantly adjusts the the rest of your vehicle. Read your
ignition timing, reducing the amount warranty manual for more informa-
of HC, CO, and NOx produced. tion.

Three Way Catalytic Converter


The three way catalytic converter is
in the exhaust system. Through
chemical reactions, it converts HC,
CO, and NOx in the engine’s exhaust
to carbon dioxide (CO2), dinitrogen
(N2), and water vapor.

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DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

The tires on your vehicle meet all Treadwear Traction − AA, A, B, C


U.S. Federal Safety Requirements. The treadwear grade is a compara- The traction grades, from highest to
All tires are also graded for tive rating based on the wear rate of lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those
treadwear, traction, and temperature the tire when tested under controlled grades represent the tire’s ability to
performance according to conditions on a specified government stop on wet pavement as measured
Department of Transportation test course. For example, a tire under controlled conditions on
(DOT) standards. The following graded 150 would wear one and one- specified government test surfaces
explains these gradings. half (1 1/2) times as well on the of asphalt and concrete. A tire
government course as a tire graded marked C may have poor traction
Uniform Tire Quality Grading 100. The relative performance of performance.
Quality grades can be found where tires depends upon the actual condi-
applicable on the tire sidewall tions of their use, however, and may Warning: The traction grade
between the tread shoulder and the depart significantly from the norm assigned to this tire is based on
maximum section width. For due to variations in driving habits, straight-ahead braking traction tests,
example: service practices, and differences in and does not include acceleration,
Treadwear 200 road characteristics and climate. cornering, hydroplaning, or peak
Traction AA traction characteristics.
Temperature A

All passenger car tires must conform


to Federal Safety Requirements in
addition to these grades.

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DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Temperature − A, B, C Warning: The temperature grade for


The temperature grades are A (the this tire is established for a tire that
highest), B, and C, representing the is properly inflated and not over-
tire’s resistance to the generation of loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-
heat and its ability to dissipate heat tion, or excessive loading, either
when tested under controlled separately or in combination, can
conditions on a specified indoor cause heat buildup and possible tire
laboratory test wheel. Sustained high failure.
temperature can cause the material
of the tire to degenerate and reduce
tire life, and excessive temperature
can lead to sudden tire failure. The
grade C corresponds to a level of
performance which all passenger car
tires must meet under the Federal
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No.
109. Grades B and A represent
higher levels of performance on the
laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.

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Tire Information

Tire Labeling 16 − Rim diameter in inches. 2202 − Date of manufacture.


The tires that came on your vehicle
have a number of markings. Those 99 − Load index (a numerical code
you should be aware of are described associated with the maximum
below. load the tire can carry).

Tire Size S − Speed symbol (an


Whenever tires are replaced, they alphabetical code indicating
should be replaced with tires of the the maximum speed rating).
same size. Following is an example
of tire size with an explanation of Tire Identification Number
what each component means. Tire Identification Number (TIN) is
a group of numbers and letters that
P215/70R16 99S look like the following example TIN.

P − Vehicle type (P indicates DOT B97R FW6X 2202


passenger vehicle).
DOT − This indicates that the tire
215 − Tire width in millimeters. meets all requirements of
the U.S. Department of
70 − Aspect ratio (the tire’s section Transportation.
height as a percentage of its
width). B97R − Manufacturer’s
identification mark.
R − Tire construction code (R
indicates radial). FW6X − Tire type code.

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Three Way Catalytic Converter

The three way catalytic converter Keep the engine tuned-up.


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

The three way catalytic converter THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER


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

Always use unleaded gasoline.


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

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State Emissions Testing

Testing of Readiness Codes Make sure the vehicle has been When traffic allows, drive for 90
If you take your vehicle for a state parked with the engine off for 8 seconds without moving the
emissions test shortly after the hours or more. accelerator pedal. (Vehicle speed
battery has been disconnected or Make sure the ambient may vary slightly; this is okay.) If
gone dead, it may not pass the test. temperature is between 20° and you cannot do this for a
This is because of certain ‘‘readiness 95°F. continuous 90 seconds because of
codes’’ that must be set in the on- Without touching the accelerator traffic conditions, drive for at least
board diagnostics for the emissions pedal, start the engine, and let it 30 seconds, then repeat it two
systems. These codes are erased idle for 20 seconds. more times (for a total of 90
when the battery is disconnected, Keep the vehicle in Park seconds).
and set again only after several days (automatic transmission) or Then drive in city/suburban
of driving under a variety of Neutral (manual transmission). traffic for at least 10 minutes.
conditions. Increase the engine speed to 2,000 When traffic conditions allow, let
rpm and hold it there until the the vehicle coast for several
If the testing facility determines that temperature gauge rises to at least seconds without using the
the readiness codes are not set, you 1/4 of the scale (approximately 3 accelerator pedal or the brake
will be requested to return at a later minutes). pedal.
date to complete the test. If you must Select a nearby lightly traveled
get the vehicle re-tested within the major highway where you can If the testing facility determines the
next two or three days, you can maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph readiness codes are still not set, see
condition the vehicle for re-testing (80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20 your Honda dealer.
by doing the following. minutes. Drive on the highway in
D (A/T) or 5th (M/T). Do not use
Make sure the gas tank is nearly, the cruise control.
but not completely, full (around
3/4).

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Customer Service Information

Honda dealership personnel are Canadian Owners: When you call or write, please give
trained professionals. They should CUSTOMER RELATIONS us this information:
be able to answer all your questions. RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTÈLE
If you encounter a problem that your Honda Canada Inc. Vehicle Identification Number
dealership does not solve to your 715 Milner Avenue (see page 202 )
satisfaction, please discuss it with Toronto, ON Name and address of the dealer
the dealership’s management. The M1B 2K8 who services your vehicle
Service Manager or General Date of purchase
Manager can help. Almost all Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9 Mileage on your vehicle
problems are solved in this way. Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909 Your name, address, and tele-
Toronto (416) 287-4776 phone number
If you are dissatisfied with the A detailed description of the
decision made by the dealership’s In Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin problem
management, contact your Honda Islands: Name of the dealer who sold the
Customer Service Office. Bella International vehicle to you
P.O. Box 190816
U.S. Owners: San Juan, Puerto Rico 00919-0816
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Honda Customer Service Tel: (787) 250-4318
Mail Stop 500-2N-7A
1919 Torrance Boulevard
Torrance, California 90501-2746

Tel: (800) 999-1009

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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 coverage for a replacement battery
vehicle. purchased from a Honda dealer.
New Vehicle Limited Warranty −
covers your new vehicle, except for Rust Perforation Limited Warranty Replacement Muffler Lifetime
the battery, emissions control − all exterior body panels are Limited Warranty − provides
systems and accessories, against covered for rust-through from the coverage for as long as the pur-
defects in materials and inside for the specified time period chaser of the muffler owns the
workmanship. with no mileage limit. vehicle.

Emissions Control Systems Defects Accessory Limited Warranty − Restrictions and exclusions apply to
Warranty and Emissions genuine Honda Accessories are all these warranties. Please read the
Performance Warranty − these two covered under this warranty. Time 2004 Honda Warranty Information
warranties cover your vehicle’s emis- and mileage limits depend on the booklet that came with your vehicle
sions control systems. Time, mileage, type of accessory and other factors. for precise information on warranty
and coverage are conditional. Please Please read your warranty manual coverages. Your Honda’s original
read the warranty manual for exact for details. tires are covered by their
information. manufacturer. Tire warranty infor-
Replacement Parts Limited mation is in a separate booklet.
Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty − covers all genuine
Warranty − this warranty gives up Honda replacement parts against Canadian Owners
to 100 percent credit toward a defects in materials and Please refer to the 2004 Warranty
replacement battery. workmanship. Manual that came with your vehicle.

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Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

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

216 Warranty and Customer Relations

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