Prelude

1995 Prelude Online Reference Owner's Manual
Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference.
For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.
Contents
Owner's Identification Form

Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety................................................................................................................. ii
Driver and Passenger Safety .............................................................................................................. 3
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls................................................................................................................. 29
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features ................................................................................................ 71
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving.................................................................................................................................... 97
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 107
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 127
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 181
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 189
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 211
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 225
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 231
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index...................................................................................................................................................... I
Gas Station Information
A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

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Main Menu
Introduction
Congratulations ! Your selection of a 1995 Honda Prelude was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving
pleasure.
To enhance the enjoyment of your new car, take time to study this manual. In it, you will learn about your car's many
conveniences and useful features. Following the service interval and maintenance recommendations will help keep
your driving trouble-free while preserving your investment.
Keep this owner's manual in your car so you can refer to it at any time. Please make sure the manual stays with the car
if you sell it. The next owner will find it just as helpful.
Several warranties protect your Honda. We suggest you read the warranty booklets carefully to fully understand the
coverages and the responsibilities of ownership.
When your car needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's service staff is specially-trained
in the service and maintenance of the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your
satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns.

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Main Menu
Safety Messages
Your safety and the safety of others is very important. We have provided You will also see another important
many important safety messages in this manual and on the vehicle. Please symbol:
read these messages carefully.
NOTICE
A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or
others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol and Your Honda or other property can be
one of three words, DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. damaged if you don't follow instruc-
These mean: tions.
You WILL be KILLED or The purpose of these messages is to

SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't help prevent damage to your car,
follow instructions. other property, or the environment.
You CAN be KILLED or

SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't
follow instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don't

follow instructions.
Each safety message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen and what
you can do to avoid or reduce injury.

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Main Menu
Driver and Passenger Safety
This section gives you important Your Occupant Protection System.. 4 Storing Cargo Safely................... 17
information about occupant protec- The Seat Belt System Driving with Pets......................... 17
tion. It shows how to use seat belts and How It Works...................... 5 Child Safety...................................... 18
properly. It explains the Supple- Why Wear Seat Belts.................... 5 Where Should Children Sit?....... 18
mental Restraint System. And it Important Safety Reminders........ 5 Important Safety Reminders...... 19
gives useful information about how Seat Belt System Components..... 6 General Guidelines
to protect an infants or a child in Lap/Shoulder Belt......................... 6 for Restraining Children
your car. Wearing Seat Belts Properly........ 6 Under 18 kg (40 Ibs)............... 19
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7 Restraining
Advice for Pregnant Women........ 8 an Infant Who Weighs
Seat Belt Maintenance.................. 8 Less Than 9 kg (20 Ibs).......... 19
Supplemental Restraint System....... 9 Restraining
What Happens In a Crash........... 10 a Child Who Weighs Between
Important Facts About 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs)..... 20
Airbags...................................... 11 Restraining a Child Who Weighs
How the Driver's Airbag Over 18 kg (40 Ibs).................. 21
Works........................................ 12 Using a Seat Belt
How the Passenger's Airbag Locking Clip............................. 21
Works........................................ 13 Using Child Restraints
How the SRS Indicator Light with Tethers............................. 22
Works........................................ 14 Storing a Child Seat..................... 23
System Service............................. 14 Alcohol and Drugs........................... 24
System Service Precautions....... 15 Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 25
Additional Safety Information........ 16 Reporting Safety Defects
Seat-back Position........................ 16 (U.S. Cars).................................... 26
Door Locks................................... 16 Safety Labels.................................... 27

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Main Menu Table of Contents
Your Occupant Protection System
Your Honda is equipped with seat Two indicator lights are also part of To get the maximum protection from
belts and other features that work your safety system. One reminds you your occupant protection system,
together to protect you and your to make sure you and your passen- check the following before you drive
passengers during a crash. gers wear seat belts. The other away:
alerts you to a possible problem with
Seat belts are the most important your supplemental restraint system Everyone in the car is wearing a
part of your occupant protection (see page 14). seat belt properly (see page 6 ) .
system. When worn properly, seat Infants and small children are
belts can reduce the chance of The seats, head restraints, and door properly secured in child safety
serious injury or death in a crash. locks also play a role in occupant seats (see page 18).
safety. For example, reclining the Both doors are closed and locked
For added protection during a severe seat-back can decrease the effec- (see page 16).
frontal collision, your Prelude has a tiveness of your seat belt. Head Seat-backs are upright (see page
Supplemental Restraint System restraints can help protect your neck 16).
(SRS) with a driver's airbag and a and head, especially during rear-end There are no loose items that
front passenger's airbag. impacts. Door locks help keep your could be thrown around and hurt
doors from being accidentally someone during a crash or sudden
opened during a crash. stop (see page 17).
By following these guidelines, you

can reduce injuries to yourself and
your passengers in many crash
situations. Remember, however, that
no safety system can prevent all
injuries or deaths that can occur in
severe crashes.

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The Seat Belt System and How It Works
Why Wear Seat Belts Two people should never use the
Wearing seat belts, and wearing same seat belt. If they do, they could
them properly, is fundamental to Not wearing a seat belt be very seriously injured in a crash.
your safety and the safety of your increases the chance of being
passengers. killed or seriously hurt in a Do not place the shoulder portion of
crash. a lap/shoulder belt under your arm
During a crash or emergency stop, or behind your back. This could
seat belts can help keep you from Be sure you and your increase the chance of serious
being thrown against the inside of passengers always wear seat injuries in a crash.
the car, against other occupants, or belts and wear them properly.
out of the car. Do not put shoulder belt pads or
other accessories on seat belts. They
Of course, seat belts cannot com- Important Safety Reminders can reduce the effectiveness of the
pletely protect you in every crash. Seat belts are designed for adults belts and increase the chance of
But, in most cases, seat belts reduce and larger children. All infants and injury.
your chance of serious injury. They small children must be properly
can even save your life. That is why restrained in child safety seats (see
many states and all Canadian pro- page 18).
vinces require you to wear seat belts.
A pregnant woman needs to wear a
seat belt to protect herself and her
unborn child (see page 8).

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Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt Wearing Seat Belts Properly
Your Honda has lap/shoulder seat You can increase the effectiveness of
belts in all four seating positions. SHOULDER UPPER SEAT your seat belts if you take a little
PORTION BELT ANCHOR time to read the following pages and
Your seat belt system also includes a make sure you know how to wear
light on the instrument panel to LATCH seat belts properly.
remind you to fasten your seat belt, PLATE
and to make sure your passengers
fasten theirs. This light comes on
when you turn on the ignition if you Not wearing a seat belt properly
have not fastened your seat belt. A increases the chance of serious
beeper also sounds for several LAP
injury or death in a crash.
seconds (see page 33). BUCKLE PORTION
Be sure you and your
The following pages cover more This style of seat belt has a single passengers always wear seat
about the seat belt components and belt that goes over your shoulder, belts and wear them properly.
how they work. across your chest, and across your
hips.
Each lap/shoulder belt has an
emergency locking retractor. In
normal driving, the retractor lets you
move freely in your seat while it
keeps some tension on the belt.
During a collision or sudden stop,
the retractor automatically locks the
belt to help restrain your body.

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Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt
Before putting on the seat belt, move latch is securely locked. 4. Pull up on the shoulder part of the
the driver's seat as far back as is belt to remove any slack. Make
practical while still allowing you to 2. Check that the belt is not twisted. sure the belt goes over your
maintain full control of the vehicle. collarbone and across your chest.
Make sure the seat-back is upright 3. Position the lap portion of the belt
(see page 54). The front seat as low as possible across your hips,
passenger should move the seat as not across your stomach. This lets
far back as possible. your strong pelvic bones take the
force of a crash.
1. Pull the latch plate across your
body and insert it into the buckle.
Tug on the belt to make sure the CONTINUED

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Advice for Pregnant Women drive and how you should position a
lap/shoulder seat belt.
Seat Belt Maintenance

For safety, you should check the
condition of your seat belts regularly.
Pull out each belt fully and look for

frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check
that the latches work smoothly and
the lap/shoulder belts retract easily.
Any belt not in good condition or not
working properly should be replaced.
To unlatch the seat belt, push the Protecting the mother is the best If a seat belt is worn during a crash,
red PRESS button on the buckle. way to protect her unborn child. have your dealer replace the belt and
Guide the belt across your body to Therefore, a pregnant woman should inspect the anchors for damage.
the door pillar. If the belt doesn't wear a properly-positioned seat belt
retract easily, pull it out and check whenever she drives or rides in a car. For information on how to clean your
for twists or kinks. seat belts, see page 185.
When using the seat belt, remember
to keep the lap portion as low as
possible (see page 7).
Each time you have a check-up, ask

your doctor if it's okay for you to

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Supplemental Restraint System
Your car is equipped with a INDICATOR PASSENGER'S

Supplemental Restraint System AIRBAG
(SRS) to help protect the head and Not wearing a seat belt
chest of the driver and front seat increases the chance of serious
passenger during a severe frontal injury or death in a crash, even
collision. if you have an airbag.
This system does not replace your seat Be sure you and your
belts. It supplements, or adds to, the passengers always wear seat
protection offered by seat belts and belts and wear them properly.
other occupant protection features.
DRIVER'S
AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT/SENSORS
The main components in your SRS

are:
One airbag in the steering wheel

for the driver and another in the
dashboard for the passenger.
Sensors that can detect a severe

frontal collision.
CONTINUED

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A sophisticated electronic system What Happens In a Crash After the crash, you may see what
that continually monitors the If you ever have a severe frontal looks like smoke. This is actually
control unit (including the collision, the sensors will detect powder from the airbag's surface.
sensors), airbag activators, and all rapid deceleration and signal the People with respiratory problems
related wiring when the ignition is control unit to instantly inflate the may experience some temporary
ON (II). airbags. discomfort from the chemicals used
by the airbag's activators.
An indicator light on the During a crash, your seat belts will
instrument panel to alert you to a help to restrain your lower body and
possible problem with the system. torso. The airbags will provide a
cushion to absorb crash energy and
Emergency backup power in case help keep the head and chest of the
your car's electrical system is driver and front passenger from
disconnected in a crash. striking the interior of the car.
After inflating, the airbags will

immediately deflate. The entire
process, from detection to deflation,
takes a fraction of a second. This
process occurs so quickly that you
may not hear the loud noise created
by the airbag inflators, or realize
what has happened.

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Important Facts About Airbags Just from viewing the vehicle

Frontal collision range
Airbags inflate only when needed; in damage after a crash, it is very
a severe frontal collision. A severe difficult to accurately determine if
collision would be similar to a crash the airbags should or should not
into a parked car at 25 mph (40 have inflated. In some cases where
km/h). Airbags will not inflate in a the airbag did not inflate, extensive
moderate frontal collision, or during visible damage indicated that the car
a rear impact, side impact, or rollover absorbed much of the crash energy,
— even if the impact is severe. and the airbags were not needed. In
other cases, a severe jolt, such as an
impact to the undercarriage, may not
cause extensive body damage but
cause the airbags to inflate.
Airbags inflate and deflate only once.
They cannot protect you during any
additional impacts that can occur
during a crash sequence.
Injuries, including fatal injuries, can

occur in a severe collision, even if
seat belts are worn properly and the
airbags inflate. No safety system can
provide complete protection in a
severe crash.

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How the Driver's Airbag Works To do its job, the airbag inflates with
considerable force. So, while it can
reduce serious injuries and even save
your life, the airbag might cause
some facial abrasions or other
injuries. To reduce the possibility of
injury, you should always sit back as
far from the steering wheel as is
practical while still maintaining full
vehicle control.
If you ever have a severe frontal After the bag completely inflates, it
collision, your airbag will instantly immediately starts deflating so it
inflate to help protect your head and won't interfere with your visibility,
chest. ability to steer, or ability to operate
other controls. The total time for
inflation and deflation takes a
fraction of a second. You may not
even be aware that the airbag has
been fully inflated.

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The driver's airbag is stored in the How the Passenger's Airbag This airbag is quite large and inflates
center of the steering wheel. For Works with considerable force. It can
your safety, do not attach any items seriously hurt a front seat passenger
to the steering wheel. They could who is not in the proper position and
interfere with the proper operation wearing the seat belt properly. Front
of the airbag. Or, if the airbag seat passengers should move the
inflates, they could be propelled seat as far back as practical and sit
inside the car and hurt someone. well back in the seat.
We strongly recommend that you do

not put an infant seat in the front
passenger's seat. If the airbag
inflates, it can hit the infant seat with
great force. The infant seat can be
dislodged or struck with enough
If you ever have a severe frontal force to cause very serious injury to
collision, the passenger's airbag will the infant.
inflate at the same time as the driver's
airbag. If a toddler seat is used in the front
passenger's seat, the vehicle seat
should be moved as far back as
possible. If the passenger's bag
inflates, it could seriously hurt a
toddler who is not in the proper
position or properly restrained.
CONTINUED

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The passenger's airbag is stored How the SRS Indicator System Service
near the top of the dashboard, under SRS Light Works Your supplemental restraint system
a lid marked SRS. Do not place any The purpose of the SRS light on your is virtually maintenance-free. There
objects on top of this lid. If the airbag instrument panel is to alert you of a are no parts you can safely service.
inflates, those objects can be potential problem with your supple- You must have the system serviced
propelled inside the car and possibly mental restraint system. by an authorized Honda dealer:
hurt someone.
Have the system checked if: If your airbags ever inflate, the
airbags and control unit must be
The light does not come on when replaced. Do not try to remove or
you turn the ignition ON (II). discard the airbags by yourself.
This must be done by a Honda
The light stays on after the engine dealer.
starts.
If the SRS indicator light alerts
The light comes on or flashes you of a problem. Have the
while you are driving. supplemental restraint system
checked as soon as possible.
Otherwise, your airbags might not
inflate when you need them.
When the car is ten years old.

Have the dealer inspect the
system. The production date is on
the driver's doorjamb for your
convenience.

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System Service Precautions Scrapping an entire car that has

Do not modify your steering wheel uninflated airbags can be dangerous.
or any other part of the supplemental Get assistance from a Honda dealer
restraint system. Modifications could if your car must be scrapped.
make the system ineffective.
If you sell your car, please be sure to
Do not tamper with the system's tell the new owner that the car has a
components or wiring. This could supplemental restraint system. Alert
cause the airbags to inflate inadver- them to the information and precau-
tently, possibly injuring someone tions in this part of the owner's
very seriously. manual.
Tell anyone who works on your car

that you have a supplemental
restraint system. Failure to follow
the procedures and precautions in
the official Honda service manual
could result in personal injury or
damage to the system.

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Additional Safety Information
The seat belts and airbags are obvi- Seat-back Position Door Locks
ously important parts of your occu- The seat-backs should be in an It is not safe to leave your car doors
pant protection system. upright position for you and your unlocked. A passenger, especially a
passengers to get the most protec- child, could open a door and acci-
In addition, you should know that tion from the seat belts. dentally fall out. Also, there is a
sitting upright, locking the doors, greater chance of being thrown out
and stowing things properly can also If you recline a seat-back, you reduce of the car during a crash when the
increase your safety and possibly the protective capability of your seat doors are not locked.
even save your life. belt. The farther a seat-back is
reclined, the greater the risk that
you will slide under the belt in a
severe crash and be very seriously
injured.
For information on how to adjust the

seat-back, see page 54.

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Additional Safety Information
Storing Cargo Safely Driving with Pets A small dog, cat, or other small
Before you drive, make sure you Loose pets can be a hazard while you animal will be safest in a pet carrier
first securely store or tie down any are driving. An unrestrained pet can with rigid sides. Choose a style that
items that could be thrown around interfere with your ability to drive allows you to secure it to the car's
the car and hurt someone, or the car. In a crash or sudden stop, seat by routing a seat belt through
interfere with your ability to operate loose pets or cages can be thrown the carrier's handle.
the controls. around inside the car and hurt you or
your passengers. It is also for their For further information, contact your
Do not put any items on top of the safety that pets should be properly veterinarian or local animal protec-
rear shelf. They can block your view restrained in your car. tion society.
and they could be thrown about the
car in a crash. The recommended way to restrain a
medium-sized or larger dog is with a
Be sure to keep compartment doors special traveling harness. This har-
closed when the car is moving. If a ness can be secured to the rear seat
front passenger hits the door of an with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are
open glove box, for example, he available at pet stores.
could injure his knees.
For information on loading cargo,

see page 106.

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Child Safety

An infant or child who is not passenger's seat. If the airbag
properly restrained can be killed inflates, it can hit the infant seat with
or seriously injured in a crash. great force. The infant seat can be
Be sure any child too small for force to cause very serious injury to
seat belts is properly secured in the infant.
a child restraint.
If a toddler seat is used in the front
passenger's seat, the vehicle seat
Where Should Children Sit? should be moved as far back as
According to accident statistics, possible. If the passenger's bag
Children depend on adults to protect children of all sizes and ages are inflates, it could seriously hurt a
them. To help make sure we do, safer when they are properly toddler who is not in the proper
every state and Canadian province restrained in the rear seat rather position or properly restrained.
has laws requiring infants and young than the front seat.
children to be properly restrained We also recommend that any child
whenever they ride in a car. We recommend that, whenever who is too large to use an infant or
possible, you secure your child's toddler seat ride in the rear seat. The
infant or toddler seat in the rear seat child should then wear the lap/
with the lap/shoulder belt. You must shoulder belt properly for protection.
use a locking clip with a lap/shoulder
belt.

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Child Safety
Important Safety Reminders General Guidelines for To properly route a seat belt through
Never hold a baby or child on your Restraining Children Under 18 a child seat, follow the seat maker's
lap when riding in a car. If you are kg (40 Ibs) instructions. You must use a locking
wearing your seat belt, the violent Use an approved child seat. The seat clip with a lap/shoulder belt (see
forces created during a crash will must meet Federal Motor Vehicle page 21).
tear the child from your arms. The Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS-213) or
child could be seriously hurt or killed. Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Secure the child in the child seat. Make
Standards. Look for the manufac- sure the infant or child is firmly
If you are holding a child and not turer's statement of compliance on secured to the child seat. Use the
wearing a seat belt in a crash, you the box and seat. straps provided, and carefully follow
could crush the child against the car's the manufacturer's instructions.
interior. Use a seat of the right size. Make sure
the seat fits your child. Check the Restraining an Infant Who
Never put your seat belt over seat manufacturer's instructions and Weighs Less Than 9 kg
yourself and a child. During a crash, labels for height and weight limits. (20 Ibs)
the belt could press deep into the An infant up to about 9 kg (20 Ibs)
child, causing serious internal Secure the child seat to the car. All must be restrained in an infant seat
injuries. approved child seats are designed to or a convertible seat designed for a
be secured to the car seat by the lap baby. Because infants must ride in a
Two children should never use the belt portion of a lap/shoulder belt. A reclining position, be sure the infant
same seat belt. If they do, they could child whose seat is not properly seat always faces the REAR of the
be very seriously injured in a crash. secured to the car can be car as shown.
endangered in a crash.
For their safety, do not leave
children alone in your car without
adult supervision. CONTINUED

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Child Safety

passenger's seat. If the airbag
inflates, it can hit the infant seat with
great force. The infant seat can be
force to cause very serious injury to
the infant.
Restraining a Child Who Weighs

Between 9 and 18 kg ( 2 0 and 40
Ibs)
Toddler seats are designed for
We recommend that, whenever children who weigh between 9 and If you are using a toddler seat in the
possible, you put the infant seat in 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs). front passenger's seat, move the
the rear seat and secure it to the car The preferred place to put a toddler passenger's seat as far back as
with a lap/shoulder belt. You must seat is in the rear seat. Use the car's possible before installing the child
use a locking clip with a lap/shoulder lap/shoulder belt to secure the seat seat. If the passenger's bag inflates,
belt (see page 21). to the car. You must use a locking it could seriously hurt a toddler who
clip with the car's lap/shoulder belt is not in the proper position or
(see page 21). properly restrained.

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

possible, a child who has outgrown a the booster seat manufacturer's
toddler seat ride in the rear seat and instructions.
use a lap/shoulder belt.

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Child Safety
To install a locking clip, do the Using Child Restraints with

following: Tethers
1. Place the child restraint in the 150 mm (5.9 in)

desired position. Route the lap/
shoulder belt through the restraint
according to the seat manufac-
turer's instructions.
2. Insert the latch plate into the

buckle. Pull on the shoulder part
of the belt to make sure there is
no slack in the lap portion.
4. Install the locking clip as shown. 230 mm (9.1 in)
3. Tightly grasp the belt near the Position the clip as close as
latch plate. Pinch both parts of the possible to the latch plate. Your Honda has two attachment
belt together so they won't slip points for tether-style child seats.
through the latch plate. Unbuckle 5. Insert the latch plate into the Use the dimensions in the above
the seat belt. buckle. Push and pull on the child illustration to locate the attachment
seat to verify that it is held firmly point you want to use. Cut a 12.7 mm
in place. If it is not, repeat these (1/2 inch) diameter hole in the rear
steps until the restraint is secure. shelf.

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Child Safety
Then install the tether hardware that Canadian Cars Storing a Child Seat
came with the child seat. When you are not using an infant
Tighten the bolt to: seat or other child restraint, either
22 N.m (2.2 kg-m, 16 Ib-ft) TOOTHED WASHER remove it or make sure it is properly
secured so it cannot be thrown
If you are not sure how to install the around the car during a crash.
bracket, have it installed by your
Honda dealer.
If you need an anchor plate and

mounting hardware, you can obtain
them by writing to:
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Consumer Affairs The anchor plate and mounting
1919 Torrance Blvd. hardware for a top tether are
Torrance, CA 90501-2746 supplied with the car. When
installing, make sure the toothed
washer is on the bottom of the bolt.
The supplied anchor plate is

designed only for mounting a child
restraint. Do not use it for any other
purpose.

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

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Carbon Monoxide Hazard
Your car's exhaust contains carbon High levels of carbon monoxide can If you must sit in your parked car,
monoxide gas. You should have no collect rapidly in enclosed areas, even in an unconfined area, with the
problem with carbon monoxide such as a garage. Do not run the engine running, adjust the heating
entering the car in normal driving if engine with the garage door closed. and cooling system as follows:
you maintain your car properly. Even with the door open, run the
Have the exhaust system inspected engine only long enough to move the 1. Select the Fresh Air mode.
for leaks whenever: car out of the garage. 2. Select the mode.
3. Turn the fan on high speed.
The car is raised for an oil change. With the trunk lid open, air flow can 4. Set the temperature control to a
You notice a change in the sound pull exhaust gas into your car's comfortable setting.
of the exhaust. interior and create a hazardous
The car was in an accident that condition. If you must drive with the
may have damaged the underside. trunk lid open, open all the windows
and set the heating and cooling
system as follows.
Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.

Breathing it can cause
unconsciousness and can even
kill you.
Avoid any enclosed areas or

activities that expose you to
carbon monoxide.

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Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Cars)
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.

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Safety Labels
These labels are in the locations

shown. They warn you of potential
hazards that could cause serious
injury. Read these labels carefully
and don't remove them.
If a label comes off or becomes hard

to read, contact your Honda dealer RADIATOR CAP
for a replacement.
BATTERY

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Main Menu
Instruments and Controls
This section gives information about Control Locations............................ 30 Trunk............................................ 52

the controls and displays that Indicator Lights................................ 31 Seat Adjustments............................. 53
contribute to the daily operation of Gauges.............................................. 38 Rear Seat Access......................... 54
your Honda. All the essential Speedometer................................ 38 Additional Driver's Seat
controls are within easy reach. Tachometer.................................. 38 Adjustments............................. 55
Odometer...................................... 39 Seat Heaters..................................... 56
Trip Meter.................................... 39 Folding Rear Seat............................ 57
Fuel Gauge................................... 40 Hazard Warning............................... 58
Temperature Gauge.................... 40 Rear Window Defogger.................. 58
Controls Near the Steering Power Windows............................... 59
Wheel........................................ 41 Sunroof.............................................. 60
Headlights.................................... 42 Mirrors.............................................. 61
Daytime Running Lights............. 42 Adjusting the Power Mirrors..... 62
Instrument Panel Brightness..... 43 Parking Brake.................................. 63
Turn Signals................................. 43 Glove Box......................................... 64
Windshield Wipers...................... 44 Digital Clock..................................... 64
Windshield Washers................... 44 Vanity Mirror................................... 65
Steering Wheel Adjustment....... 45 Cigarette Lighter............................. 65
Steering Wheel Controls................ 46 Ashtrays............................................ 66
Cruise Control.............................. 46 Beverage Holder.............................. 67
Horn.............................................. 49 Console Compartment.................... 68
Keys and Locks................................ 49 Interior Lights.................................. 68
Keys............................................... 49 Ignition Switch Light................... 69
Ignition Switch............................. 50
Door Locks................................... 51
Power Door Locks....................... 51

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Control Locations
DOOR LOCK POWER WINDOW DIGITAL CLOCK HEATING/

SWITCH SWITCH (P.64) COOLING
(P.51) (P.59) CONTROL
(P.72)
AUDIO SYSTEM
(P.79)
FUEL FILL
DOOR RELEASE
(P. 100)
TRUNK RELEASE HOOD RELEASE MIRROR

HANDLE HANDLE CONTROLS
(P.52) (P.101) (P.62)

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Indicator Lights
The instrument panel has many (S)

indicators to give you important SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT HIGH BEAM INDICATOR
information about your car. SYSTEM INDICATOR
Lamp Check
Many of the indicator lights come on
when you turn the ignition switch
ON (II), allowing you to see that they
are working. The instrument panel
should look like the illustration. If an
indicator does not light during this
test, it cannot alert you if that system
develops a problem. Have the dealer
check your car for burned-out bulbs (Except S)
or other problems. SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT HIGH BEAM INDICATOR FOUR WHEEL STEERING
SYSTEM INDICATOR SYSTEM (4WS) INDICATOR
CONTINUED

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Indicator Lights
* The U.S. instrument panel is

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ shown. Differences for the Canadian
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT* model are noted in the text.
LOW FUEL INDICATOR BRAKE LAMP

INDICATOR
ANTI-LOCK
BRAKE SYSTEM
INDICATOR*
PARKING BRAKE TRUNK-OPEN INDICATOR

AND BRAKE
SYSTEM INDICATOR*
SEAT BELT DOOR-OPEN INDICATOR
REMINDER
LIGHT
CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

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Indicator Lights
Seat Belt Reminder Light Charging System US Canada Parking Brake

Indicator and Brake
This indicator lights when you turn This light indicates the battery is not BRAKE System
the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder being charged. It should come on Indicator
to you and your passengers to when the ignition is ON (II), and go This light has two functions:
protect yourselves by fastening the out after the engine starts. If this
seat belts. A beeper also sounds if light comes on while driving, the 1. It lights as a reminder that you
you have not fastened your seat belt. battery is not being charged. Turn to have set the parking brake.
page 202 for information about what Driving with the parking brake set
If you do not fasten your seat belt, to do. can damage the brakes and tires,
the beeper will stop after a few and cause the Anti-lock brake
seconds but the light stays on until Low Oil Pressure system to turn off (see page 118).
you do. Both the light and the beeper Indicator
stay off if you fasten your seat belt This indicator lights when the oil 2. It can indicate the brake fluid level
before turning on the ignition. pressure in the engine drops low is low if it remains lit after you
enough to cause damage. It should release the parking brake or
light when the ignition is ON (II) and comes on while driving. This is
go out after the engine starts. If this normally due to worn brake pads.
light comes on when the engine is Have your dealer check the
running, there is a possibility of braking system for worn pads or
serious engine damage. Safely pull to fluid leaks.
the side of the road and shut off the
engine as soon as you can. Turn to
page 201 for instructions and
precautions on checking the engine.

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Indicator Lights
Supplemental Restraint US Canada Anti-lock Brake US

SRS System Indicator System (ABS) Malfunction Indicator
The SRS light normally comes on for
ABS Indicator Lamp
a few seconds when you turn the Only on cars equipped with ABS (see Canada
ignition ON (II). If it doesn't, or it page 118) Check Engine Light
stays on after the engine starts, This light normally comes on when
something is wrong with the you turn the ignition ON (II) and This light comes on for a few
Supplemental Restraint System. It goes off after the engine starts. If it seconds when you turn the ignition
may also flash on and off to indicate comes on at any other time, there is switch ON (II). If it comes on at any
a problem. a problem in the ABS. If this happens, other time, it indicates one of the
stop the car in a safe place and turn engine's emission control systems
If you see any of these indications, off the engine. Reset the system by may have a problem. Turn to page
the airbag may not work when restarting the engine. 203 for information about what to do.
needed in an accident. Take the car Watch the ABS light. If it does not
to your dealer promptly for diagnosis go off, or comes back on again while
and service. driving, take the car to your dealer to
have it checked. With the light on,
your car still has normal braking
ability but no anti-lock.

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Indicator Lights
Brake Lamp Four Wheel Steering Turn Signal and

BRAKE LAMP Indicator 4WS System (4WS) Indicator Hazard Warning
This light normally comes on for a Only on cars equipped with electronic Indicators
few seconds when you turn the four wheel steering The left or right turn signal light
ignition switch ON (II). If this light This light normally comes on when blinks when you signal a lane change
comes on at any other time, it you turn the ignition ON (II) and or turn. If the light does not blink or
indicates a brake light does not work. goes off after the engine starts. If it blinks rapidly, it usually means one
comes on at any other time, there is of the turn signal bulbs is burned out
A burned out brake light is a hazard a problem in the 4WS. If this (see page 172). Replace the bulb as
when drivers behind you cannot tell happens, stop the car in a safe place soon as possible, since other drivers
you are braking. Have your brake and turn off the engine. Reset the cannot see that you are signalling.
lights repaired right away. system by restarting the engine.
Watch the 4WS light. If it does not When you turn on the Hazard
go off, or comes back on again while Warning switch, both turn signal
driving, take the car to your dealer to lights blink. All turn signals on the
have the system checked. outside of the car should flash.
The 4WS system is disabled with

this light on. The rear wheels are
locked straight ahead, and your car
steers like a conventional car without
4WS.

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Indicator Lights
High Beam Indicator Trunk-open Indicator "Daytime Running

D R L Lights" Indicator
This light comes on with the high This light comes on if the trunk lid is Canadian models only
beam headlights. See page 42 for not closed tightly. This indicator lights when you turn
information on the headlight the ignition to ON (II) with the
controls. Door-open Indicator headlight switch off and the parking
brake set. It should go off if you turn
Low Fuel Indicator This light comes on if either door is on the headlights or release the
not closed tightly. parking brake. If it comes on at any
This light comes on as a reminder other time, it means there is a
that you must refuel soon. problem with the DRL. There may
also be a problem with the high
CRUISE Cruise Control Indicator beam headlights.
CONTROL
This lights when you set the cruise
control. See page 46 for information
on operating the cruise control.

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Indicator Lights
Shift Lever Position Indicator The "D4" indicator comes on for a

(Automatic Transmission only) few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch ON (II). If it flashes
while driving (in any shift position),
it indicates a possible problem in the
transmission. Avoid rapid acceler-
ation and have the transmission
LEADED checked by an authorized Honda
LY dealer as soon as possible.
This indicator shows which shift

position the shift lever is in.

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Gauges
(S) Speedometer
ODOMETER TRIP METER TRIP METER U.S. Models
RESET BUTTON This shows your speed in miles per
hour (mph). The smaller inner
numbers are the speed in kilometers
per hour (km/h).
Canadian Models
This shows your speed in kilometers
per hour (km/h). The smaller inner
numbers are the speed in miles per
hour (mph).
TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER
Tachometer
(Except S) The tachometer shows the engine
RESET/CHANGE KNOB
speed in revolutions per minute
(rpm). To protect the engine from
damage, never drive with the
tachometer needle in the red zone.
TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER ODOMETER/TRIP METER

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Gauges
Odometer Trip Meter CHANGE/RESET KNOB

The odometer shows the total dis- This meter shows the number of
tance your car has been driven. It miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada)
measures miles in U.S. models and driven since you last reset it.
kilometers in Canadian models.
It is illegal under federal law (in the (S model)
U.S.) and provincial regulations (in To reset it, push the trip meter reset
Canada) to disconnect, reset, or alter button.
the odometer with the intent to
change the number of miles or (Except S model)
kilometers indicated. Your meter can show traveling
distances of two separate trips. Each TRIP METER DISPLAY
(Except S model) time you turn the Change/Reset
The odometer and the trip meter use knob counterclockwise, the display To reset the trip meter, select the
the same display. To change the changes from the odometer to reading you want to reset, TRIP 1 or
display from the odometer to the trip TRIP 1, TRIP 2 then back to the TRIP 2 by turning the Change/Reset
meter or vice versa, turn the odometer. Turning the knob knob. Then push the knob until the
Change/Reset knob as explained in clockwise changes the display in the number resets to 0.0.
the next column. reverse order.

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Gauges
Temperature Gauge
FUEL GAUGE TEMPERATURE The temperature gauge is fully
GAUGE electronic. It uses a series of
illuminated indicator bars to show
the engine coolant's temperature
range. Under normal driving
conditions, you will see the bars
illuminate to the display's midpoint.
In more severe driving conditions,
such as very hot weather or climbing
a long hill, the engine may get hot
enough to illuminate the white
indicators on the right side of the
gauge. If the red indicator above the
Fuel Gauge H comes on, pull safely to the side of
This shows how much fuel you have. As a test, all the indicator bars in the the road. Turn to page 199 for
The fuel gauge is fully electronic, fuel gauge light for several seconds instructions and precautions on
lighting the indicator bars to show when you turn the ignition to ON (II). checking the engine's cooling
the current fuel level. It is most system.
accurate when you are driving or
parked on level ground. The As a test, all the indicator bars in the
indicated fuel level may vary when temperature gauge illuminate when
you are driving on curved or hilly you turn the ignition ON (II).
roads.

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Controls Near the Steering Wheel
The two levers on the steering SUNROOF INSTRUMENT PANEL WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS
column contain controls for driving BRIGHTNESS
features you use most often. The left
lever controls the turn signals,
headlights, and high beams. The
right lever controls the windshield
wipers.
The controls on the dashboard to the

left of the steering column are for
the sunroof, cruise control and
instrument panel brightness.
The lever on the underside of the

steering column allows you to tilt the
steering wheel.
CRUISE
CONTROL
HEADLIGHTS/
TURN SIGNALS TILT ADJUSTMENT HAZARD WARNING

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Headlights If you leave the lights on with the To flash the high beams, pull back
ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) and hold the turn signal lever.
or LOCK (0), you will hear a Release the lever and the high
reminder chime when you open the beams will go off.
driver's door.
The high beams will stay on for as
long as you hold the lever, no matter
what position the headlight switch is
in.
Daytime Running Lights

(Canadian Models)
With the headlight switch off, the
high beam headlights come on with
The rotating switch on the left lever reduced brightness when you turn
controls the lights. Turning this the ignition switch to ON (II) and
switch to the first position turns release the parking brake. They
on the parking lights, taillights, remain on until you turn the ignition
instrument panel lights, side-marker To change between low beams and off, even if you set the parking brake.
lights, and rear license plate lights. high beams, pull back on the turn
Turning the switch to the second signal lever until you hear a click, The headlights revert to normal
position turns on the headlights. then let go. The blue high beam operation when you turn them on
indicator will light (see page 36). with the switch.

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Instrument Panel Brightness the dial up as far as it will go to To signal a lane change, push lightly
return the fuel and temperature on the turn signal lever in the proper
gauges to their daytime brightness. direction and hold it. The lever will
return to the center position as soon
Turn Signals as you release it.
The dial on the dashboard to the left

of the instrument panel controls the
brightness of the instrument panel TURN SIGNAL LEVER
lights. Turn the dial to adjust the
brightness. Signal a turn or lane change with this
lever. Push down on the lever to
To reduce glare at night, the fuel and signal a left turn, and up to signal a
temperature gauges dim when you right turn. If you push it up or down
turn on the parking lights or all the way, the turn signal continues
headlights. You then adjust their to blink even when you release the
brightness when you adjust the lever. It shuts off automatically as
instrument panel brightness. Turn you complete the turn.

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Windshield Wipers Windshield Washers
The right lever controls the wind- To operate the wipers in mist mode, To clean the windshield, pull back on
shield wipers and washers. The push the control lever down. The the wiper control lever. The washers
rotary switch at the end of the lever wipers run at high speed until you spray until you release the lever.
has three positions: release the lever. This gives you a
INT — intermittent quick way to clear the windshield. The wipers run at low speed while
LO — low speed you're pulling the lever, then
HI — high speed complete one more sweep of the
windshield after you release it.
In intermittent, the wipers operate
every few seconds. In low speed and
high speed, the wipers run continu-
ously.

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Steering Wheel Adjustment 3. Move the steering wheel up or

You can adjust the steering wheel down to the desired position.
height to suit your preference. Do Position the wheel so you can see
this before you begin driving. all the instrument panel gauges
and warning lights. Push the lever
up to lock the steering wheel in
that position.
Adjusting the steering wheel
position while driving may 4. Make sure you have securely
cause you to lose control of the locked the steering wheel in place
car and be seriously injured in a by trying to move it up and down.
crash.
Adjust the steering wheel only 1. Adjust the seat so you are a
when the car is stopped. comfortable distance from the
pedals.
2. The lever to tilt the steering wheel

is under the steering column to
the left. Push this lever all the way
down.

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Steering Wheel Controls
Cruise Control NOTICE Using the Cruise Control

Cruise control allows you to maintain
a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) The cruise control, as it operates,
without keeping your foot on the moves the accelerator pedal. You can
accelerator pedal. It is for cruising on damage your car's accelerator
straight, open highways. It is not mechanism by resting your foot under
recommended for conditions such as the pedal and blocking the movement.
city driving, winding roads, slippery
roads, heavy rain, or bad weather.
You should have full control of the
car under those conditions.
Improper use of the cruise 1. Push in the Cruise Control Master

control can lead to a crash. Switch to the left of the steering
column. The indicator in the
Use the cruise control only switch will light.
when traveling on open
highways in good weather. 2. Accelerate to the desired cruising
speed above 25 mph (40 km/h).

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

particularly on hills.
CONTINUED

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Even with the cruise control turned When you tap the brake or clutch button.
on, you can still use the accelerator pedal, or press the SET and RE-
pedal to speed up for passing. After SUME buttons at the same time, the Pressing the Cruise Control Master
completing the pass, take your foot CRUISE CONTROL light on the Switch turns the system completely
off the accelerator pedal. The car instrument panel will go out and the off and erases the previous cruising
will return to the set cruising speed. car will begin to slow down. You can speed from memory. To use the
use the accelerator pedal in the system again, refer to Using the
Resting your foot on the brake or normal way. Cruise Control.
clutch pedal will cause the cruise
control to cancel. If you use the brake or clutch pedal
to cancel cruise control, the system
Cancelling the Cruise Control retains the previously-set cruising
Any of these actions cause the cruise speed. To return to that speed, ac-
control to cancel. celerate to above 25 mph (40 k m / h )
and press the accel/RESUME button
Tap the brake or clutch pedal. until the CRUISE CONTROL light
comes on. The car will accelerate to
Press the SET/decel and accel/ the same cruising speed as before.
RESUME buttons at the same
time. If you cancel cruise control by
pressing the SET and RESUME
Press the Cruise Control Master buttons at the same time, the
Switch. previously-set cruising speed is
erased. To use the cruise control,
accelerate to the desired cruising
speed and press the SET/decel

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Steering Wheel Controls, Keys and Locks
Horn Keys The valet key only works the ignition

and the door locks. You can keep the
HORN BUTTONS VALET KEY MASTER KEY trunk, trunk release handle and rear
seat trunk access locked when you
leave your car and valet key at a
parking facility. (See Trunk, page 52.)
You should have received a key

number plate with your set of keys.
You will need this key number if you
ever have to replace a lost key. Store
this plate in a safe place.
When replacing keys, use only
Honda-approved key blanks.
Press either of the buttons on the Your car comes with two kinds of
steering wheel spokes to sound the keys: a master key and a valet key.
horn. The master key fits all locks on your
car:
Ignition
Doors
Trunk
Trunk release handle
Rear seat trunk access

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Keys and Locks
Ignition Switch LOCK (0) — You can insert or ACCESSORY (I) — In this position,
remove the key only in this position. you can operate the audio system
When you turn the key from LOCK and cigarette lighter.
to ACCESSORY, you may have to
turn the steering wheel to release ON (II) — This is the normal key
the anti-theft lock. To switch from position when driving. All features
ACCESSORY to LOCK, you must and accessories on the car are usable.
push the key in slightly as you turn it. Several of the lights on the instru-
If your car has an automatic trans- ment panel come on as a test when
mission, it must also be in Park. The you turn the ignition switch from
anti-theft lock will lock the steering ACCESSORY to ON (see page 31 ).
column when you remove the key.
START (III) — Use this position
only to start the engine. The switch
The ignition switch is on the right returns to ON when you let go of the
side of the steering column. It has Removing the key from the key.
four positions: LOCK (0), ACCES- ignition switch while driving
SORY (I), ON (II), and START (III). locks the steering. This can You will hear a reminder beeper if
cause you to lose control. you open the driver's door with the
key in the LOCK or ACCESSORY
Remove the key from the position. Remove the key to turn it
ignition switch only when off.
parked.

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Keys and Locks
Door Locks The doors can also be locked and Power Door Locks
unlocked from the outside with the
key.
Each door has a lock tab next to the Available on U.S. Si, and VTEC models,
inside door handle. Push the tab in to and Canadian SR, SR 4WS and SR-V
lock the door and pull it out to unlock. models
Each door has a master door lock
To lock the passenger's door when switch. Either switch locks and
getting out of the car, push the lock unlocks both doors. Push the switch
tab in and close the door. To lock the down to lock and up to unlock.
driver's door, pull the door handle
and push the lock tab in. Release the
handle then close the door.
CONTINUED

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Keys and Locks
Both doors lock when you push in Trunk

the lock tab on the driver's door, or
lock the driver's door from the MASTER KEY
outside with the key. Only the driver's
door unlocks when you use the key
or lock tab. To unlock the passenger's
door, use the master door lock
switch or pull out the lock tab on
passenger's door.
Lockout Prevention
If you forget and leave the key in the TRUNK RELEASE
ignition switch. Lockout Prevention HANDLE
will not allow you to lock the driver's
door. With either door open and the You can open the trunk in two ways: To close the trunk, press down on
key in the ignition, the master door the trunk lid.
lock switches are disabled. If you try Pull the trunk release handle to
to lock the driver's door by pushing the left of the driver's seat. See page 106 for cargo loading and
in the lock tab, the tabs on both weight limit information. Keep the
doors immediately pop out. Use the master key to open the trunk lid closed at all times while
trunk lock. The valet key does not driving to avoid damaging the lid and
work in this lock. getting exhaust gas in the interior.
See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on
page 25.

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Keys and Locks, Seat Adjustments
Seat Adjustments
Adjust the seat before you start
driving.
MASTER KEY
To adjust the seat forward and
To protect items in the trunk when backward, pull up on the lever under
you need to give the key to someone the seat cushion's front edge. Move
else, lock the trunk release handle the seat to the desired position and
with the master key and give the release the lever. Try to move the
other person the valet key. seat to make sure it is locked in
position.
CONTINUED

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Seat Adjustments
Rear Seat Access
Reclining the seat-back can

decrease the protection you get
from your seat belt in a crash.
You can slide under the seat

belt and be seriously injured.
Adjust the seat-back to an

upright position and sit well
back in the seat.
To change the angle of the seat-back,

pull up on the lever on the outside of To tilt the front seat-back forward,
the seat bottom. Move the seat-back pull up on the release lever. This
to the desired position and release lever is on the side of each seat-back.
the lever. Let the seat-back latch in You can also tilt the seat-back
the new position. forward by pulling up the seat-back
angle adjustment lever.

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Seat Adjustments
Additional Driver's Seat Lumbar Support Fine Adjustment of Seat-back Angle

Adjustments
The driver's seat in the Si and VTEC
models in the U.S., and the SR, SR
4WS and SR-V models in Canada has
additional features. They are: lumbar
support adjustment, fine adjustment
of seat-back angle, and seat-back
angle memory.
Vary the lumbar support by moving Adjust the seat-back angle to the
the lever on the right side of the desired position with the adjustment
seat-back. lever on the outside of the seat
bottom. Then use the fine
adjustment lever at the base of the
seat-back to change the angle a small
amount to suit your preference.
Move the lever forward and
backward.
CONTINUED

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Seat Adjustments, Seat Heaters
Seat-back Angle Memory Seat Heaters Do not use the seat heaters when the
engine is off or when idling for a
INDICATORS long period of time. They can drain
the battery, making your car hard to
start.
After you have adjusted the seat- Available only on SR 4WS and SR-V
back angle, press the MEMORY models in Canada
button. This retains the setting so Both front seats are equipped with
the seat-back will return to that seat heaters. The ignition must be
position after you tilt it forward for ON (II) to use them. Push the heater
rear seat access. If you do not press switch to turn the power on or off.
the MEMORY button, the seat-back The pilot lamp lights and remains on
will return to about the midpoint of while the heaters are on.
its adjustment range. You will then
have to readjust the angle to your
preference.

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Folding Rear Seat
MASTER KEY RELEASE LOOP Make sure all items in the trunk, or
items extending through the opening
into the back seat, are tied down.
Loose items can fly forward and
cause injury if you have to brake
hard. See Loading Cargo on page
106.
Pull
Never drive with the seat-back
folded down and the trunk lid open.
See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on
page 25.
The back of the right rear seat folds To release the seat-back from inside
down, giving you direct access to the the trunk, pull the release loop under
trunk. The seat-back can be released the rear shelf.
from inside the car or inside the
trunk. To lock the seat-back upright, push it
firmly against the rear shelf. Make
To fold down the seat-back from sure it is latched in place by pulling
inside the car, insert the master key on the top of the seat.
in the lock on the rear shelf. Turn
the key clockwise, pull down the top
of the seat-back, then release the
key.

▲
▼
Hazard Warning, Rear Window Defogger
Hazard Warning Rear Window Defogger Make sure the rear window is clear
and you have good visibility before
starting to drive.
The defogger wires on the inside of

the rear window can be accidentally
damaged. When cleaning the glass,
always wipe side to side.
Push the red button on the center The rear window defogger will clear
console to turn on the hazard warn- fog, frost, and thin ice from the
ing lights (four-way flashers). This window. Push the defogger button to
causes all four outside turn signals turn it on and off. The light in the
and both indicators in the instrument button lights to show the defogger is
panel to flash. Use the lights to give on. If you do not turn it off, the
a warning to other road users that defogger will shut itself off after
your vehicle is causing a hazard. about 25 minutes. It also shuts off
when you turn off the ignition. You
have to turn it on again when you
restart the car.

▲
▼
Power Windows
Your car's windows are electrically- The master control panel also con-
powered. Turn the ignition switch to tains these extra features:
ON (II) to raise or lower any window.
AUTO — To open the driver's
Each door has a switch that controls window fully, push the window
its window. To open the window, switch firmly down and release it.
push the switch down and hold it. The window automatically goes all
Release the switch when you want the way down. To stop the window
the window to stop. Close the from going all the way down, push
window by pushing the switch up the window switch up briefly.
and holding it. MAIN DRIVER'S WINDOW
SWITCH SWITCH To open the driver's window only
partially, push the window switch
The driver's door has a master down lightly and hold it. The window
power window control panel. To will stop as soon as you release the
open the passenger's window, push switch.
down on the switch and hold it down
until the window reaches the desired The AUTO function only works to
position. To close the window, push lower the driver's window. To raise
up on the window switch. Release the window, you must push the
the switch when the window gets to window switch up and hold it until
the position you want. the window reaches the desired
position.
CONTINUED

▲
▼
Power Windows, Sunroof
The MAIN switch controls power to The power window system has a key- Sunroof
the passenger's window. With this off delay function. The windows will
switch off, the passenger's window still operate for up to ten minutes
cannot be raised or lowered. The after you turn off the ignition.
MAIN switch does not affect the Opening either front door cancels
driver's window. Keep the M A I N the delay function. You must turn
switch off when you have children in the ignition ON (II) again before you
the car so they do not injure can raise or lower the windows.
themselves by operating the
windows unintentionally.
Closing a power window on a

child's hands or fingers can
cause serious injury.
Use the switch on the dashboard to
Make sure your children are open and close the sunroof. The
away from the windows before ignition m u s t b e ON (II). Push and
closing them. hold the switch to open the
sunroof. Release the switch when
the sunroof reaches the desired
position. To close the sunroof, press
and hold the switch.

▲
▼
Sunroof, Mirrors
The sunroof has a key-off delay. You Mirrors

can still open and close the sunroof
for up to ten minutes after you turn Closing the sunroof on
off the ignition. The key-off delay someone's hands or fingers can
cancels as soon as you open either cause serious injury.
front door. You must then turn the
ignition ON (II) for the sunroof to Make sure passengers are
operate. clear of the sunroof before
closing it.
TAB
NOTICE
If you try to open the sunroof in below-
freezing temperatures, or when it is Keep the inside and outside mirrors
covered with snow or ice, you can clean and adjusted for best visibility.
damage the sunroof panel or motor. Be sure to adjust the mirrors before
you start driving.
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.

▲
▼
Mirrors
Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH
Adjust the outside mirrors with the 3. Push the appropriate edge of the The outside mirror on the passenger's
adjustment switch on the center adjustment switch to move the side has curved glass. Objects look
console: mirror right, left, up or down. farther away than they are. Use this
mirror to get a "wide view". Don't
1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). 4. When you finish, move the use it to judge the distance of things
selector switch to the center (off) behind you.
2. Move the selector switch to L position. This turns off the
(driver's side) or R (passenger's adjustment switch so you can't
side). move a mirror out of position by
accidentally bumping it.

▲
▼
Mirrors, Parking Brake
Parking Brake NOTICE

PARKING BRAKE LEVER Driving the car with the parking brake
applied can damage the rear brakes
and axles.
Available on all Canadian models To apply the parking brake, pull the
The outside mirrors are heated to lever up fully. To release it, pull up
remove fog and frost. Press the slightly, push the button, and lower
mirror defroster button to turn on the lever. The parking brake light on
the heaters when the ignition is ON the instrument panel should go out
(II). The light in the button comes on when the parking brake is fully
as a reminder. Press the button released (see page 33). If you try to
again to turn the heaters off. drive the car without releasing the
parking brake, the ABS cannot work
properly.

▲
▼
Glove Box, Digital Clock
Glove Box Digital Clock

Open An open glove box can cause KNOB
KNOB serious injury to your passenger
in a crash, even if the
passenger is wearing the seat
belt.
Always keep the glove box

closed while driving.
GLOVE BOX
Open the glove box by turning the The digital clock displays the time
knob clockwise. To close, push the with the ignition switch ON (II).
lid up and turn the knob counter- To set the clock:
clockwise to lock.
1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) to
display the time.
2. Turn the knob toward H (counter-

clockwise) and hold it until the
hour advances to the desired time.

▲
▼
Digital Clock, Vanity Mirror, Cigarette Lighter
3. Turn the knob toward M Vanity Mirror Cigarette Lighter

(clockwise) and hold it until the
numbers advance to the desired
time.
You can use the same knob to

quickly set the time to the nearest
hour. If the displayed time is before
the half hour, pressing the knob sets
the clock back to the previous hour.
If the displayed time is after the half
hour, pressing the knob sets the
clock forward to the beginning of the CIGARETTE LIGHTER
next hour.
To use the vanity mirror, pull down The ignition switch must be in
For example: either sun visor and swing down the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for the
1:06 would RESET backward to cover. cigarette lighter to work. To heat up
1:00. the lighter, push it in. It will pop out
1:52 would RESET forward to 2:00. when it is ready for use. Do not hold
the lighter in while it is heating up,
you could cause it to overheat.

▼
▲
Ashtrays
Ashtray NOTICE
ASHTRAY
Use the ashtray only for cigarettes,
cigars and other smoking materials. To
prevent a possible fire and damage to
your car, don't put paper or other
things that can burn in the ashtray.
ASHTRAY
Open the front ashtray by swinging The rear ashtray is at the rear end of
the lid down. To remove it for the center console. Open the ashtray
emptying, open the lid then pull the by swinging the upper edge of the lid
ashtray straight outward. down. To remove the ashtray for
emptying, open it then lift up and out.

▼
▲
Beverage Holder
LID Be careful when you are using the

beverage holder. Spilled liquids can
damage the upholstery, carpeting,
and electrical components in the
interior. If the liquid is very hot, it
can scald you or your passengers.
To open the beverage holder, push Use the beverage holder only when
on the lid. the car is parked. If you place cups in
the holder while driving, the liquid
may spill when you go over bumps or
around corners.

▲
▼
Console Compartment, Interior Lights
Console Compartment Ceiling Lights

LEVER DOOR ACTIVATED DOOR ACTIVATED
OFF ON
OFF
ON
CONSOLE COMPARTMENT
To open the console compartment, On S and Si models in the U.S., and S On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR
press the lever and lift the lid. and SR models in Canada 4WS and SR-V models in Canada
The ceiling light has a three-position The ceiling light contains a main
switch. In the OFF position, the light light as well as two spotlights.
does not come on. In the center
position, the ceiling light comes on
when you open either door. In the
ON position, the ceiling light stays
on continuously.

▲
▼
Interior Lights
The ceiling light has a three-position Ignition Switch Light

switch. In the OFF position, the light
does not come on. In the center
position, the main light comes on
when you open either door. In the
ON position, the main light stays on
continuously.
Turn on the spotlight by pushing the Available on Si and VTEC models in the
button next to each light. Push the U.S., and on SR, SR 4WS and SR-V
button again to turn it off. You can models in Canada
use the spotlights at all times. This light comes on whenever you
open the driver's door.
This light stays on for a few seconds
after you close the door.

▲
▼
Main Menu
Comfort and Convenience Features
The heating and air conditioning* Heating and Cooling........................ 72 Audio System................................... 79
system in your car provides a com- What Each Control Does............ 74 AM/FM/Cassette Stereo
fortable driving environment in all How to Use the System............... 75 Audio System........................... 79
weather conditions. Controlling Air Flow Operating the Radio.................... 81
Direction............................... 75 Presetting..................................... 83
The audio sound system is very Ventilation................................ 75 Adjusting the Sound.................... 85
versatile. To get the most from this To Cool with A/C.................... 76 Radio Frequencies....................... 86
system, take the time to learn what To Heat..................................... 77 Operating the Cassette Player... 87
the controls do. To Heat and Dehumidify Cassette Search Functions......... 89
with Air Conditioning.......... 77 Caring for Cassettes.................... 89
Some models have an anti-theft To Defog and Defrost............. 78 Operating the CD Changer or
audio system that requires a code To Turn Everything Off............. 78 Player........................................ 90
number to enable it. CD Error Indications................... 93
Caring for the Cassette Player....... 94
* Air conditioning is optional on the Theft Protection............................... 95
Canadian S model.

▲
▼
Heating and Cooling
This system has full heating, venti- CENTER VENT CORNER VENT
lation, and air conditioning capabi-
lities. You can adjust the system
controls to mix these in various
combinations. The air flows into the
interior at three possible levels,
which you can select.
(Canadian S model only)

If you purchased your car without air
conditioning, it can be installed at
any time. A Genuine Honda air
conditioning system is available from
your dealer. It meets Honda's high The direction of air flow from the The heating and cooling system
quality standards and is designed to vents in the center of the dashboard draws air through the exterior vents
fit your car. Please contact your and the corner vents in each door is at the bottom of the windshield.
dealer for more information. adjustable. Move the tab in the Keep these vents clear of leaves and
center of each vent up-and-down and other debris.
side-to-side.
The center, corner and side

defroster vents can be opened and
closed with the dials next to them.

▲
▼
Heating and Cooling
SIDE DEFROSTER VENT

▲
▼
Heating and Cooling
What Each Control Does

MODE BUTTONS REAR WINDOW
DEFROSTER BUTTON
Fan Control Lever
Sliding this lever to the right RECIRCULATION
increases the fan speed, which BUTTON
increases air flow.
Temperature Control Lever

Sliding this lever to the right
increases the temperature of air
flowing from the system.
Mode Buttons
These buttons control the direction TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL AIR CONDITIONING
of air flow. The indicator light shows CONTROL LEVER LEVER SWITCH
which button is controlling air flow.
Air Conditioning (A/C) Switch Recirculation Button between recirculated and fresh air.
This switch turns the air condi- This button controls the source of air
tioning ON and OFF. The indicator going into the system. When the Rear Window Defroster Button
in the switch lights when the A / C is indicator in this button is lit, the This button turns the rear window
ON. system is recirculating the interior defroster on and off (see page 58).
air (Recirculation mode). When the
indicator is off, fresh air is brought
in from outside the car (Fresh Air
mode). Push the button to change

▲
▼
Heating and Cooling
How to Use the System The engine must be running for the Ventilation
This section covers the best way to heater and air conditioning to pro- Your car has a flow-through
use the system for ventilation, vide hot and cold air. The heater ventilation system. Air enters the car
cooling, dehumidifying, defrosting uses engine coolant to warm the air. through vents in front of the
and heating. In most cases, the mode If the engine is cold, it will be several windshield. It circulates through the
and air source selections are only minutes before you feel warm air interior then exits through vents
recommendations. You may prefer circulating. near the rear window. This system
different settings. provides fresh air even when the car
The air conditioning system does not is standing still. To bring in outside
Use Recirculation mode to heat or depend on engine temperature. It air, select the Fresh Air mode. Set
cool the interior more quickly, or to can produce cold air almost immedi- the fan at a comfortable speed.
keep out smoke and dust. Leaving ately.
the system in the recirculation mode
with the A / C off can cause the Controlling Air Flow Direction
windows to fog up. Switch to Fresh Air flows into the interior at three
Air mode as soon as the interior levels: Toward the floor
reaches a comfortable temperature through the dash vents and
or the outside smoky, dusty toward the windshield and side
condition clears. windows You select the air
flow level or combination of levels
with the five mode buttons.
CONTINUED

▲
▼
Heating and Cooling
To Cool with A/C

To operate the air conditioning
system, press the air conditioning MODE BUTTONS AIR CONDITIONING
SWITCH
switch. Set the fan to the desired
speed. You can also use the
mode button to direct air out
of the dash and heater vents.
To cool the interior down rapidly

after the car has been sitting in the
sun:
1. Start the engine.

2. Turn on the A / C by pressing the TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL
CONTROL LEVER LEVER
switch.
3. Set the fan to maximum speed.
4. Open the windows partially. Select
the Recirculation mode and The air conditioning places an extra While cooling the interior with the
load on the engine. Watch the engine air conditioning on, keep the side
coolant temperature gauge (see page defroster vents closed to prevent the
When the interior reaches a com- 40) when using the A / C in heavy side windows from being fogged.
fortable temperature, close the traffic or driving up long hills. If the
windows and set the system for temperature indication climbs near
cooling as described above. the H, turn off the air conditioning
until the gauge reads normally.

▲
▼
Heating and Cooling
To Heat
To warm the interior:
MODE BUTTONS AIR CONDITIONING
1. Start the engine. SWITCH
2. Select the Fresh Air mode and
3. Switch the fan to the desired

speed.
4. Adjust the warmth of the air with
the temperature control lever.
To Heat and Dehumidify with Air

Conditioning
Air conditioning removes moisture TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL
from the air as it operates. When CONTROL LEVER LEVER
used in combination with the heater,
it makes the interior warm and dry.
1. Switch the fan on. This setting is suitable for all driving
2. Turn on the air conditioning. conditions whenever the outside
3. Select the Fresh Air mode and temperature is above 32°F (0°C).
press any desired mode button.
4. Adjust the temperature control
lever so the mixture of heated and
cooled air feels comfortable.
CONTINUED

▲
▼
Heating and Cooling
To Defog and Defrost To rapidly remove exterior frost or To Turn Everything Off
To remove fog from the inside of the ice from the windshield (on very cold To shut off the system temporarily,
windows: days), first select the Recirculation slide the fan speed and temperature
mode. Once the windshield is clear, control levers all the way to the left.
1. Switch the fan on. select the Fresh Air mode to avoid
2. Turn on the air conditioning. fogging the windows. You should shut the system com-
3. Select the Fresh Air mode and pletely off only for the first few
These settings direct all the air flow minutes of driving in cold weather,
4. Adjust the temperature control to the defroster vents at the base of until the engine coolant warms up
lever so the air flow from the the windshield and the side windows. enough to operate the heater. Keep
defroster vents feels warm. The air flow will get warmer and the fan on at all other times so stale
5. Turn on the rear window defogger clear the windows faster as the air does not build up in the interior.
to help clear the rear window. engine warms up. You can close the
corner vents with the dial beside
To remove exterior frost or ice from each vent. This will send more warm
the windshield and side windows air to the windshield defroster vents.
after the car has been sitting out in For safety, make sure you have a
cold weather: clear view through all the windows
before driving away.
1. Start the engine.
2. Select the Fresh Air mode and
3. Switch the fan and temperature

controls to maximum.

▲
▼
Audio System
AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio (S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT

System
Your Honda audio system is easy to
use, and will give clear A M / F M
reception. The preset buttons allow
you to select six stations on AM and
twelve stations on FM.
TUNE/SEEK
FF/REW/TMS AM/FM PRESET
SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS
(Except S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT
TUNE/SEEK
CONTINUED

▲
▼
Audio System
The cassette system uses (S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT

Dolby B® * noise reduction to give
excellent sound reproduction. The
system also senses when a metal or
chromium-dioxide (CrO 2 ) tape is
being played and adjusts accordingly.
Except S model
The Anti-theft feature disables the
system if it is disconnected from the
TUNE/SEEK
car's battery. To get the system FF/REW/TMS AM/FM PRESET
working again, you must enter a SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS
code number.
(Except S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT
* Dolby noise reduction manufac-
tured under license from Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
"DOLBY" and the double-D symbol
are trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
TUNE/SEEK

▲
▼
Audio System
Operating the Radio (S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB STEREO INDICATOR

The ignition switch must be in AC-
CESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate
the audio system. Turn the system
on by turning the ON/OFF/VOL
knob clockwise. The radio comes on
and displays the frequency of the
station it was last tuned to.
The antenna extends automatically.
The system turns off and the anten-
na retracts when you turn the igni- AM/FM BUTTON
tion switch to LOCK (0).
Adjust the volume by turning the (Except S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB STEREO INDICATOR
ON/OFF/VOL knob.
Select the band you want to listen to

by pressing the AM or FM1/FM2
button. You will see the selected
band and the frequency in the
display.
ST will be displayed next to the fre-

quency if the station is broadcasting
in FM stereo. The AM stereo feature AM/FM BUTTON
is not available. CONTINUED

▲
▼
Audio System
You can use any of three methods to (S)

find radio stations on the selected
band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset
buttons.
The TUNE function lets you find a

desired frequency. Push the T U N E /
SEEK switch up to change to a
higher frequency, and down to
change to a lower frequency.
To change the frequency up or down TUNE/SEEK PRESET
a single increment, push and release SWITCH BUTTONS
the TUNE/SEEK switch.
(Except S)
The SEEK function searches the
band for stations with a strong signal.
Depending on which way you push
the TUNE/SEEK switch, the system
searches up or down from the
current frequency. Push the switch
until you hear a beep, then release it.
The system searches until it finds a
station with a strong signal, then
stops. If you do not want to listen to
that station, push TUNE/SEEK TUNE/SEEK PRESET
again. SWITCH BUTTONS

▲
▼
Audio System
Presetting (S)
The preset buttons allow you to store
radio frequencies for later selection.
Each button will store one frequency
on the AM band, and two on the FM
band.
To store a frequency:
1. Select the desired band, AM or

FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store
two frequencies with each Preset TUNE/SEEK AM/FM PRESET
button. SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS
2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function (Except S) AUTO SELECT LIGHT

to tune the radio to a desired
station.
3. Pick the Preset button you want

for that station. Press the button
and hold it until you hear a beep.
4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total

of six stations on AM and twelve
on FM.
TUNE/SEEK AM/FM PRESET AUTO SELECT
SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS BUTTON
CONTINUED

▲
▼
Audio System
Once that station's frequency is Except S model AUTO SELECT does not erase the
stored, simply press and release the The AUTO SELECT function allows stations you have manually preset.
proper preset button to tune to it. If you to find stations easily when you When you return to your normal
you want to change any preset are in an unfamiliar area. Press the reception area, turn off AUTO
button's selection, store another fre- AUTO SELECT button. The system SELECT by pressing the button
quency as described. The frequen- automatically scans both bands to again. The light goes out and the
cies you preset will be lost if your find six strong stations on AM and Preset buttons can then select the
car's battery goes dead or is discon- twelve on FM, and stores their stations you originally set.
nected. frequencies in the Preset buttons.
You can then use the Preset buttons You cannot manually store radio
in the normal manner to select those station frequencies in the Preset
stations. "A SELECT" stays buttons when AUTO SELECT is ON.
displayed next to the frequency as a If you do not like the stations found
reminder. by AUTO SELECT, you can still use
the TUNE or SEEK function to find
If you are in a remote area, AUTO other stations.
SELECT may not find enough
stations to fill all the available
presets. If this is the case, you will
see a "0" displayed when you press
any Preset button that does not have
a station stored.

▲
▼
Audio System
Adjusting the Sound

Use the Balance and Fader controls
to adjust the sound "direction". The
Balance control moves it left-to-right.
The Fader control moves it front-to-
back.
To use either control, push on the

knob to get it to pop out. Adjust the
front-to-back sound to your liking
with the outside ring. FADER BALANCE BASS TREBLE
CONTROL CONTROL CONTROL CONTROL
Adjust side-to-side sound balance
with the knob. Push the knob back in The illumination for the radio con- Use the Bass and Treble controls to
when you are done. trols comes on with the instrument adjust the tone quality to your liking.
panel lights, even if the radio is off. Push on the knob to get the controls
You can use the Balance control to to pop out. Adjust the bass level with
turn off the radio panel illumination the outer ring and the treble level
even with the radio on. Push the with the knob. When finished, push
control knob so it pops out, then pull the knobs back in so there is less
it out slightly further. Check this chance of accidentally changing your
control if the control panel lights do settings.
not come on with the instrument
panel lights.

▲
▼
Audio System
Radio Frequencies (S)

Your Honda's radio can tune in all
frequencies in both the AM and FM
bands.
Those bands cover these frequen-
cies:
AM band:
530 kilohertz to 1,710 kilohertz
FM band:
87.7 megahertz to 107.9 megahertz AM/FM BUTTON
Radio stations on the AM band are

assigned frequencies at least 10 (Except S)
kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550).
Those on the FM band are assigned
frequencies at least 0.2 megahertz
apart (87.9,88.1, 88.3).
Stations must use these exact

frequencies. It is fairly common for
stations to round-off the frequency in
their advertising, so your radio will
show a frequency of 100.9 even
though the announcer may call the AM/FM BUTTON
station "FM101."

▲
▼
Audio System
Operating the Cassette Player (S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE TAPE DIRECTION
SLOT INDICATOR
Turn the system ON. Insert the
cassette into the slot with the tape
opening to the right. Push the
cassette in most of the way. The
drive will pull it in the rest of the way
and begin to play.
The or will light to show you

which side of the cassette is playing.
The indicates the side you EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY
inserted facing upward is now BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON
playing. To play the other side of the
tape, press the PROG button. (Except S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE TAPE DIRECTION
SLOT INDICATOR
The system also has an Auto-reverse
feature. It will automatically reverse
direction when it reaches the end of
the cassette.
EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY

BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON
CONTINUED

▲
▼
Audio System
Dolby® noise reduction turns on (S)

when you insert a cassette. If the
tape was not recorded with Dolby
" B " noise reduction, turn it off by
pressing the button.
To remove the cassette from the

drive, press the EJECT button. The
system automatically ejects the
cassette whenever you turn off the
system or the ignition switch. FF/REW/TMS EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY REPEAT
SWITCH BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON
(Except S)
FF/REW/TMS EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY REPEAT

SWITCH BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON

▲
▼
Audio System
Cassette Search Functions passage, it goes back to play. The The REPEAT and TMS functions
Once a cassette is playing, you can system will continue repeating this use silent periods on the tape to find
use the FF, REW, TMS, or REPEAT passage until you turn off REPEAT the end of a selection. These
function to look for desired songs or by pressing the button again. features may not work satisfactorily
passages. on tapes that have almost no gap
The TMS function lets you skip to between songs, a high noise level
To rewind the tape, push the F F / the beginning of a song or other between songs, or silent periods in
REW/TMS switch down then passage. The tape skips forward or the middle of songs.
release it. You will see REW in the backward, depending on which
display. To fast forward the tape, direction you push the FF/REW/ Caring for Cassettes
push the switch up then release it. TMS switch. Damaged cassettes can jam inside
You will see FF displayed. To stop the drive or cause other problems.
rewind or fast forward, press the Activate TMS by pushing the F F / See page 94 for information on
PLAY button. If the system reaches REW/TMS switch and holding it cassette care and protection.
the end of the cassette while in fast until you hear a beep. If you push the
forward or rewind, it automatically switch down, you will see REW
stops that function, reverses blinking in the display as the tape
direction, and begins to play. rewinds. If you push the switch up,
you will see FF blinking in the
Press the REPEAT button to replay display as the tape fast forwards.
the current passage. You will see When the system senses a silent
RPT displayed. When the system period on the tape, it goes back to
reaches the end of the song or PLAY mode.
passage that is being played, it
automatically goes into rewind.
When it senses the beginning of that

▲
▼
Audio System
Operating the CD Changer or To operate the CD changer, the You can use the TUNE/SEEK
Player ignition key must be in ACCESSORY switch while a disc is playing to
(Optional) (I) or ON (II). If you are listening to select passages and change tracks.
A Compact Disc changer is available a cassette tape, eject it before To move rapidly forward within a
for your car. It holds up to six discs, playing a CD. track, push up and hold the T U N E /
providing several hours of continu- SEEK switch. Push down and hold
ous programming. You operate the Press the CD button until "CD" the switch to move rapidly backward
CD changer with the same controls appears on the display. Once in the within a track. You will hear a beep a
used for the radio and cassette CD mode, the system will start to half second after you push the
player. play the first track of the first disc in switch up or down. Keep pushing the
the magazine. switch until you think the track has
Load the desired CD's in the advanced or returned to the desired
magazine and load the magazine in When that disc ends, the next disc in position. The disc will start playing
the changer according to the the magazine is loaded and played. when you release the switch.
instructions that came with the unit.
After disc 6 has completed, the If you push the TUNE/SEEK switch
Your dealer has Genuine Honda system will return to disc 1. To make up and release it before you hear a
accessory in-dash CD players your own disc selection, push one of beep, the system will skip forward to
available that are operated by the the six preset buttons. Your selection the beginning of the next track on
radio controls. If you have one of will appear in the display and start that CD.
these units, use the directions in this playing. It will skip backward to the begin-
section (except for multi-disc ning of the current track if you push
selection) to operate it. the switch down and release it.

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Audio System
(S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB RPT INDICATOR
TUNE/SEEK CD BUTTON REPEAT BUTTON

SWITCH
(Except S) ON/OFF/VOL KNOB A. SELECT RPT INDICATOR

INDICATOR
TUNE/SEEK CD BUTTON A. SELECT/ REPEAT BUTTON

SWITCH
CONTINUED

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Audio System
If you push the REPEAT button on Except S model If you change modes to radio or
the S model or the A. SELECT/ You can get the CD player to tape while a CD is playing, then
REPEAT button on the other models, randomly select tracks by pressing change back to CD mode, the
the system will continuously play the A. SELECT/REPEAT until you see same disc and track will play.
track you are listening to. You will A. SELECT in the display.
see RPT in the display. With this active, the system selects If you turn off the system while a
Push the switch again to turn off and plays the tracks randomly, CD is playing, either with the ON-
REPEAT mode. rather than sequentially, on each OFF/VOL knob or by turning off
disc. When the system has played all the ignition, the system will begin
the tracks on that disc, it loads the at the same disc and track when
next disc and starts to play randomly. you turn it back on.
The system continues to select and
play tracks randomly on each of the If you try to select an empty slot in
six discs until you press the the magazine, the system will
A. SELECT/REPEAT button again. select and play the first track of
the next disc in the magazine.
To turn on random play mode while
the system is in the REPEAT mode, To return to the radio function, press
turn off REPEAT mode first by the AM/FM button.
pressing the A. SELECT/REPEAT
button. Then, press the button again
as explained above.

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Audio System
CD Error Indications
If you see an error indication on the
display, find the cause in the chart to
the right. If you cannot clear the
error indication, take the car to your
Honda dealer.

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Caring for the Cassette Player
CLEAN INDICATOR regularly cleaning the tape drive at Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes.
least every 30 hours, reset the Cassettes longer than 100 minutes
indicator by pressing the Preset 6 use thinner tape that may break or
button while the system is in the jam the drive.
tape operation mode. Hold the
button until you hear a beep and the Look at a cassette before you insert
CLEAN indicator goes out. it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by
turning one of the hubs with a pencil
If you do not clean the cassette drive or your finger.
regularly, it may eventually become
impossible to remove the deposits If the label is peeling off, do not put
with a normal cleaning kit. it in the player. It may cause the
cassette to jam in the drive mecha-
The cassette drive picks up dirt and The cassette player automatically nism when you try to eject it.
oxides whenever you play a tape. ejects cassettes that do not play
This builds up over time and causes normally. If it ejects a cassette Do not leave cassettes sitting where
the sound quality to degrade. To before it begins to play, it is probably they are exposed to high heat or
prevent this, you should clean the defective and should not be inserted humidity, such as on top of the
cassette drive after every 30 hours of again. You may have a cassette dashboard or in the player. If a
use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit suddenly stop playing, reverse cassette is exposed to extreme heat
available for this purpose. directions once or twice and then or cold, let it reach a moderate
eject. This is normally an indication temperature before putting it in the
After 30 hours of tape use, you will the tape is wound unevenly. It should player.
see CLEAN flashing for 5 seconds in play normally after being manually
the display when you insert a tape rewound.
into the tape slot. If you are already

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Theft Protection
Except S model If your car's battery is disconnected You will have to store your favorite
Your car's audio system will disable or goes dead, the audio system will stations in the Preset buttons after
itself if it is disconnected from disable itself. If this happens, you the system begins working. Your
electrical power for any reason. To will see "Code" in the frequency original settings were lost when
make it work again, the user must display the next time you turn on the power was disconnected.
enter a specific five-digit code in the system. Use the Preset buttons to
Preset buttons. Because there are enter the five-digit code. If it is
hundreds of number combinations entered correctly, the radio will start
possible from five digits, making the playing.
system work without knowing the
exact code is nearly impossible. If you make a mistake entering the
code, do not start over or try to
You should have received a card that correct your mistake. Complete the
lists your audio system's code five-digit sequence, then enter the
number and serial number. It is best correct code. You have three tries to
to store this card in a safe place at enter the correct code. If you are
home, or to keep it in your wallet or unsuccessful in three attempts, you
purse. In addition, you should write must then leave the system on for
the audio system's serial number in one hour before trying again.
this Owner's Manual. If you should
happen to lose the card, you must
obtain the code number from your
Honda dealer. To do this, you will
need the system's serial number.

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Main Menu
Before Driving
Before you begin driving your Honda, Break-in Period................................ 98

you should know what gasoline to Gasoline............................................ 98
use, and how to check the levels of Oxygenated Fuels........................ 98
important fluids. You also need to Driving in Foreign Countries..... 99
know how to properly stow luggage Service Station Procedures.......... 100
or packages. This section will help Filling the Fuel Tank................. 100
you. If you plan to add any accesso- Opening the Hood..................... 101
ries to your car, please read the Fuel Economy................................ 104
information in this section first. Vehicle Condition...................... 104
Driving Habits............................ 104
Accessories..................................... 105
Loading Cargo................................ 106
Before Driving

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Break-in Period, Gasoline
Break-in Period Gasoline (All other models)

Help assure your car's future Your Honda is designed to operate Use a premium unleaded gasoline
reliability and performance by paying most effectively on unleaded with a pump octane number of 91 or
extra attention to how you drive gasoline. higher.
during the first 1,000 km (600 miles). If you are unable to find premium
During this period: We recommend gasolines containing unleaded, you may substitute an
detergent additives that help prevent unleaded regular gasoline. The
Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid fuel system and engine deposits. engine will compensate for the lower
acceleration. octane, but you may notice a slight
Using gasoline containing lead will decrease in power as a result.
If you need to add oil, use the damage your car's emission controls.
engine oil recommended in this This contributes to air pollution and Oxygenated Fuels
owner's manual. can void certain parts of your Some conventional gasolines are
warranty. being blended with alcohol or an
Avoid hard braking. New brakes ether compound. These gasolines
need to be broken-in by moderate (S model) are collectively referred to as
use for the first 300 km (200 Use an unleaded gasoline with a oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air
miles). pump octane number of 86 or higher. standards, some areas of the United
Use of a lower octane gasoline can States and Canada use oxygenated
You should follow these same re- cause a persistent, heavy metallic fuels to help reduce emissions.
commendations with an overhauled rapping noise in the engine that can
or exchanged engine, or when the lead to mechanical damage. If you use an oxygenated fuel, be
brakes are relined. sure it is unleaded and meets the
minimum octane rating requirement.
Before Driving

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Gasoline
Before using an oxygenated fuel, try METHANOL (methyl or wood Driving in Foreign Countries
to confirm the fuel's contents. Some alcohol) Using any type of leaded gasoline in
states/provinces require this You may use gasoline containing up your Honda will affect performance
information to be posted on the to 5% methanol by volume as long as and damage its emission controls.
pump. it also contains cosolvents and Unleaded gasoline may not be
corrosion inhibitors to protect the available in other countries. If you
The following are the EPA-approved fuel system. Gasoline containing are planning to take your car outside
percentages of oxygenates: more than 5% methanol by volume the U.S. or Canada, write to Honda at
may cause starting and/or perform- the address shown for information
ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) ance problems. It may also damage about any modifications your car
You may use gasoline containing up metal, rubber and plastic parts of may need. Be sure to include the
to 10% ethanol by volume. Gasoline your fuel system. year and model of your car.
containing ethanol may be marketed
under the name "Gasohol." If you notice any undesirable U.S. Owners:
operating symptoms, try another American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl service station or switch to another Consumer Affairs
Ether) brand of gasoline. 1919 Torrance Blvd.
You may use gasoline containing up Torrance, CA 90501-2746
to 15% MTBE by volume. Fuel system damage or performance
problems resulting from the use of Canadian Owners:
an oxygenated fuel containing more Honda Canada Inc.
than the percentages of oxygenates 715 Milner Ave.
given above are not covered under Scarborough, Ontario M1B 2K8
warranty.
Before Driving

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Service Station Procedures
Filling the Fuel Tank 3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.
You may hear a hissing sound as
Pull Gasoline is highly flammable pressure inside the tank escapes.
and explosive. You can be Place the fuel fill cap on the inside
burned or seriously injured of the door as shown.
when handling fuel.
4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel
Stop the engine and keep pump automatically clicks off. Do
heat, sparks, and flame away. not try to "top off" the tank, leave
Handle fuel only outdoors. some room for the fuel to expand
Wipe up spills immediately. with temperature changes.
5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on,

tighten it until it clicks more than
1. The fuel fill is on the driver's side twice.
of the car. Park with that side
closest to the service station 6. Push the fuel fill door until it
pumps. latches.
2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling

on the handle to the left of the
driver's seat.
FUEL FILL CAP
Before Driving

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Opening the Hood
LATCH
HOOD RELEASE HANDLE CLIP SUPPORT ROD
1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set 2. Standing in front of the car, put 3. Pull the support rod out of its clip
the parking brake. Pull the hood your fingers under the front edge and insert the end into the hole on
release handle, located under the of the hood to the right of center. the left side of the hood.
left lower corner of the dashboard. Slide your hand to the left until
The hood will pop up slightly. you feel the hood latch handle. To close the hood, lift it up slightly to
Push this handle to the left until it remove the support rod from the
releases the hood. Lift the hood. hole. Put the support rod back into
its holding clip. Lower the hood to
about a foot above the fender, then
let it drop.
CONTINUED
Before Driving

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Oil Check
DIPSTICK
Check the engine oil level every time 2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean 3. Insert it all the way back in its tube.
you fill the car with fuel. Wait at least cloth or paper towel.
two minutes after turning the engine
off before you check the oil.
1. Remove the dipstick (orange

handle).
Before Driving

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Engine Coolant Check Refer to Periodic Checks on page

136 for information on checking
other items in your Honda.
MAX
MIN
UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK
RESERVE TANK
4. Remove it again and check the Look at the coolant level in the
level. It should be between the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is
upper and lower marks. between the MAX and MIN lines. If
it is below the M I N line, see Adding
If it is near or below the lower mark, Engine Coolant on page 144 for
see page 138 for information on the information on adding the proper
proper oil and how to add it. coolant.
Before Driving

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Fuel Economy
The condition of your car and your Driving Habits A cold engine uses more fuel than a
driving habits are the two most You can improve fuel economy by warm engine. It is not necessary to
important things that affect the fuel driving moderately. Rapid acceler- "warm-up" a cold engine by letting it
mileage you get. ation, abrupt cornering, and hard idle for a long time. You can drive
braking use more fuel. away in about a minute, no matter
Vehicle Condition how cold it is outside. The engine
Always maintain your car according Always drive in the highest gear that will warm up faster, and you get
to the maintenance schedule. This allows the engine to run and acceler- better fuel economy. To cut down on
will keep it in top operating condition. ate smoothly. the number of "cold starts," try to
combine several short trips into one.
An important part of that mainte- Depending on traffic conditions, try
nance is the Periodic Checks (see to maintain a constant speed. Every The air conditioning puts an extra
page 136). For example an under- time you slow down and speed up, load on the engine which makes it
inflated tire causes more "rolling your car uses extra fuel. Use the use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to
resistance," which uses fuel. It also cruise control, when appropriate, to cut down on air conditioning use.
wears out faster, so check the tire increase fuel economy. Use the flow-through ventilation
pressure at least monthly. In winter, when the outside air temperature is
the build-up of snow on your car's moderate.
underside adds weight and rolling
resistance. Frequent cleaning helps
your fuel mileage and reduces the
chance of corrosion.
Before Driving

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Accessories
Your Honda dealer has many acces- Some non-Honda accessories you Electronic communications equip-
sories available to personalize your can buy in the "aftermarket" are ment, such as cellular telephones
car. Some of these are audio systems, designed for universal applications. and two-way radios are regulated by
alloy wheels, air conditioning, and Although they may fit your Honda, the FCC (DOC in Canada) and
color-coordinated carpet floor mats. they may not be within factory should not interfere with your car's
All Genuine Honda Accessories have specifications. For example, after- systems. Improper installation, or
been approved by our engineers for market wheels may not meet Honda's using electrical equipment not in-
installation and use on your car, and specifications for width and offset. tended for mobile use may interfere
are covered by warranty. They could cause suspension with your car's operation. If you want
problems which would not be to install a cellular telephone, other
covered by your warranty. Im- mobile communications equipment
properly-designed accessories can or even add-on stereo amplifiers,
adversely affect your car's handling please discuss it first with your
and stability. Honda dealer.
Your car has several computer- In many cases, improper installation

controlled systems, including the is the real cause of problems with
SRS system, the engine's fuel aftermarket accessories. Have these
injection, and the Anti-lock brake accessories installed by qualified
system. Strong electronic inter- technicians who are familiar with
ference can affect their operation. your Honda. If possible, have your
Honda dealer inspect the final
installation.
Before Driving

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Loading Cargo
The maximum load you can carry in To figure out how much cargo you Where you store this cargo, and how
your Honda is 325 kg (700 Ibs). It can carry: well you secure it, are just as
includes the total weight of all important as how much it weighs.
passengers and their belongings, any Figure the total "occupant weight" Make sure you load cargo so it will
accessories, and the tongue weight you will be transporting. To do this, not shift while driving. When storing
of a trailer. This 325 kg (700 Ibs) multiply the number of people items in the trunk, place them as far
figure is shown as the Vehicle (driver and all passengers) by 70 forward as possible. You could store
Capacity Weight on the tire infor- kg (150 Ibs). additional items on the floor behind
mation label attached to the driver's Subtract this number from the the front seats. Make sure they
doorjamb. Vehicle Capacity Weight (325 k g / cannot roll under the front seat and
700 Ibs). interfere with the pedals.
If you are towing a trailer, subtract
the tongue weight. See Towing a If you must carry large objects that
Trailer on page 122. prevent you from closing the trunk
lid, be aware that exhaust gas can
This final number is the total weight enter the interior. See Carbon
of cargo you can load in or on the car. Monoxide Hazard on page 25.
With four occupants (driver and
three passengers), the maximum Never place items on the shelf
recommended weight for cargo is 45 behind the back seat. Those items
kg (100 Ibs). can fly forward and injure you or
your passengers if you brake hard or
are involved in a collision.
Before Driving

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Main Menu
Driving
This section gives you tips on Preparing to Drive......................... 108

starting the engine under various Starting the Engine........................ 109
conditions, and how to operate the 5-speed Manual
manual and automatic transmissions. Transmission.......................... 109
It also includes important infor- Automatic
mation on your car's braking system Transmission.......................... 109
and facts you need if you are plan- Starting in Cold Weather
ning to tow a trailer. at High Altitude..................... 110
5-speed Manual Transmission..... 111
Recommended Shift Points...... 111
Maximum Speeds...................... 112
Automatic Transmission............... 113
Shift Lever Positions................. 113
Maximum Speeds...................... 115
Shift Lock Release..................... 116
The Braking System...................... 117
Brake Wear Indicators.............. 117
Brake System Design................ 117
Anti-lock Brakes........................ 118
Four Wheel Steering..................... 119
Driving in Bad Weather................ 120
Towing a Trailer............................ 122
Driving

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Preparing to Drive
You should do the following checks 5. Check the adjustment of the seat 10. Turn the ignition ON (II). Check
and adjustments every day before (see page 53). the indicator lights in the instru-
you drive your car. ment panel.
6. Check the adjustment of the
1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, inside and outside mirrors (see 11. Start the engine (see page 109).
and outside lights are clean and page 61).
unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, 12. Check the gauges and indicator
or ice. 7. Check the adjustment of the lights in the instrument panel (see
steering wheel (see page 45). page 31).
2. Check that the hood and trunk are
fully closed. 8. Make sure the doors are securely
closed and locked.
3. Visually check the tires. If a tire
looks low, use a gauge to check its 9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that
pressure. your passengers have fastened
their seat belts (see page 7).
4. Check that any items you may be
carrying with you inside are stored
properly or fastened down
securely.
Driving

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

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

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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 car moving. can cause loss of control on
slippery surfaces. If you crash,
You can get extra braking from the you can be injured.
engine when slowing down by
shifting to a lower gear. This extra Use extra care when driving on
braking can help you maintain a safe slippery surfaces.
speed and prevent your brakes from
overheating while going down a Recommended Shift Points
steep hill. Before downshifting, Drive in the highest gear that lets
make sure engine speed will not go the engine run and accelerate
The manual transmission is syn- into the tachometer's red zone in the smoothly. This will give you the best
chronized in all forward gears for lower gear. Refer to the Maximum fuel economy and effective emis-
smooth operation. It has a lockout so Speeds chart. sions control. The following shift
you cannot shift directly from Fifth points are recommended:
to Reverse. When shifting up or
down, make sure you push the clutch
pedal down all the way, shift to the
next gear, and let the pedal up
gradually. When you are not shifting,
do not rest your foot on the clutch
pedal. This can cause your clutch to
wear out faster.
CONTINUED
Driving

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▼
5-speed Manual Transmission
Maximum Speeds (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS)

The speeds in this table are the
maximums for the given gears. If
you exceed these speeds, the engine
speed will enter into the tachometer's
red zone. If this occurs, you may feel
the engine cut in and out. This is
caused by a limiter in the engine's
computer controls. The engine will
run normally when you reduce the
RPM below the red zone.
(US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V)
(US: S, Canada: S)
Driving

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▼
Automatic Transmission
Your Honda's transmission has four Shift Lever Positions

forward speeds, and is electronically
controlled for smoother shifting. It
also has a "lock-up" torque converter
for better fuel economy. You may
feel what seems like another shift
when the converter locks. LEADED
LY
SHIFT
LEVER
This display is on the instrument The shift lever has seven positions.
panel. It shows you the position of It must be in Park or Neutral to start
the shift lever. It also indicates a the engine. When you are stopped in
possible problem in the transmission D4, D3, 2, 1, N or R, press firmly on
if the "D 4 " indicator light flashes. the brake pedal and keep your foot
off the accelerator pedal.
CONTINUED
Driving

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▼
Reverse (R) — To shift to Reverse

from Park, see the explanation under
Park. To shift to Reverse from
Neutral, come to a complete stop and
then shift. Press the release button
before shifting into Reverse from
Neutral.
Neutral (N) — Use Neutral if you

need to restart a stalled engine, or if
it is necessary to stop briefly with
the engine idling. Shift to Park posi-
tion if you need to leave the car for
any reason. Press on the brake pedal
If you have done all of the above and when you are moving the shift lever
Park (P) — This position mechani- still cannot move the lever out of from Neutral to another gear.
cally locks the transmission. Use Park, see Shift Lock Release on page
Park whenever you are turning off or 116. Drive (D 4 ) — Use this position for
starting the engine. To shift out of your normal driving. The transmis-
Park, you must press on the brake You must also press the release sion automatically selects a suitable
pedal and have your foot off the button to shift into Park. To avoid gear for your speed and acceleration.
accelerator pedal. Press the release transmission damage, come to a You may notice the transmission
button on the side of the shift lever complete stop before shifting into shifting up at higher speeds when
to move it. Park. The shift lever must be in Park the engine is cold. This helps the
before you can remove the key from engine warm up faster.
the ignition switch.
Driving

▲
▼
Drive (D3) — This position is similar gear when starting out on a slippery Maximum Speeds
to D4, except only the first three surface or in deep snow. It will help The speeds in this table are the
gears are selected. Use D3 to provide reduce wheelspin. maximums for the given position. If
engine braking when going down a you exceed these speeds, the engine
steep hill. D3 can also keep the Whenever you move the shift lever speed will enter into the tachometer's
transmission from cycling between to a lower gear, the transmission red zone. If this occurs, you will feel
third and fourth gears in stop-and-go downshifts only if the engine's the engine cut in and out. This is
driving. redline will not be exceeded in the caused by a limiter in the engine's
lower gear. computer controls. The engine will
For faster acceleration when in D3 or run normally when you reduce the
D4, you can get the transmission to First (1) — To shift from Second to RPM below the red zone.
automatically downshift by pushing First, press the release button on the
the accelerator pedal to the floor. side of the shift lever. With the lever (US: S, Canada: S)
The transmission will shift down one in this position, the transmission
or two gears, depending on your locks in First gear. By upshifting and
speed. downshifting through 1, 2, D3 and D4,
you can operate this transmission
Second (2) — To shift to Second, much like a manual transmission
press the release button on the side without a clutch pedal.
of the shift lever. This position locks
the transmission in second gear. It
does not downshift to first gear
when you come to a stop. Second
gives you more power when climbing,
and increased engine braking when
going down steep hills. Use second CONTINUED
Driving

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▼
(US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) Shift Lock Release

This allows you to move the shift
lever out of Park if the normal
method of pushing on the brake
pedal and pressing the release
button does not work. RELEASE
BUTTON
1. Set the Parking brake.
2. Remove the key from the ignition

switch. SHIFT LOCK
RELEASE SLOT
3. Insert the key in the Shift Lock
Release slot next to the shift lever. 5. Remove the key from the Shift
Lock Release slot. Depress the
4. Push down on the key while you brake pedal and restart the engine.
press the release button and move
the shift lever out of Park to If you need to use the Shift Lock
Neutral. Release, it could mean your car is
developing a problem. Have the car
checked by your Honda dealer.
Driving

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▼
The Braking System
Your Honda is equipped with disc Check your brakes after driving Brake System Design
brakes at all four wheels. The through deep water. Apply the The hydraulic system that operates
braking system is power-assisted to brakes moderately to see if they feel the brakes has two separate circuits.
reduce the effort needed on the normal. If not, apply them gently and Each circuit works diagonally across
brake pedal. frequently until they do. Since a the car (the left-front brake is
longer distance is needed to stop connected with the right-rear brake,
Put your foot on the brake pedal only with wet brakes, be extra cautious etc.). If one circuit should develop a
when you intend to brake. Resting and alert in your driving. problem, you will still have braking
your foot on the pedal keeps the at two wheels.
brakes applied lightly, causing them Brake Wear Indicators
to build up heat. Heat build-up can All four brakes have audible brake
reduce how well your brakes work. It wear indicators.
also keeps your brake lights on all When the brake pads need replacing,
the time, confusing drivers behind you will hear a distinctive metallic
you. "screeching" sound when you apply Front
the brakes. If you do not have the
Constant application of the brakes brake pads replaced, they will begin
when going down a long hill builds screeching all the time.
up heat and reduces their effective-
ness. Use the engine to assist the Your brakes may sometimes squeal
brakes by downshifting to a lower or squeak when you apply them
gear and taking your foot off the lightly. Do not confuse this with the
accelerator pedal. brake wear indicators. They make a
very audible "screeching".
CONTINUED
Driving

▲
▼
The Braking System
If this happens, you will immediately Anti-lock Brakes The ABS is always "On". It requires
notice that the brake pedal goes All models except the S model have no special effort or driving technique.
down much farther and you need to an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as You will feel a pulsation in the brake
press on it much harder. A much standard equipment. pedal when the ABS activates.
longer distance will be needed to
stop the car. ABS helps you maintain steering Activation varies with the amount of
control. It does this by helping you to traction your tires have. On dry
Slow the car by downshifting to a prevent the wheels from locking up pavement, you will need to press on
lower gear and removing your foot and skidding. the brake pedal very hard before you
from the accelerator pedal. Pull to feel the pedal pulsation that means
the side of the road as soon as it is the ABS has activated. However, you
safe. Because of the longer stopping may feel the ABS activate immedi-
distance needed, brake system ately if you are trying to stop on
failure is very hazardous. It is best to snow or ice. Under all conditions, the
have your car towed, but if you must ABS is helping to prevent the wheels
drive the car in this condition, be from locking so you can retain
extremely cautious. Have your car steering control. You should con-
repaired as soon as possible. tinue to press on the brake pedal
with the same force.
You may feel a slight movement of

the brake pedal just after you start
the engine. This is the ABS working.
Driving

▲
▼
The Braking System, Four Wheel Steering
ABS INDICATOR* A car with ABS may require a longer Four Wheel Steering
distance to stop on loose or uneven The Canadian SR 4WS model
surfaces than an equivalent car with- features an electronically controlled
out Anti-lock. The ABS cannot make system that steers the rear wheels as
up for road conditions or bad judg- you steer the front wheels.
ment. It is still your responsibility to It uses the car's speed, angle of the
drive at reasonable speeds for front wheels, and the rate that you
weather and traffic conditions, and turn the steering wheel to steer the
to leave a margin of safety. rear wheels in the appropriate
direction and angle.
For a technical description of the
* U.S. indicator shown ABS hardware, refer to page 216.
The ABS is self-checking. If anything

goes wrong, the ABS indicator on
the instrument panel comes on (see
page 34). This means the Anti-lock
function of the braking system has
shut down. The brakes still work like
a conventional system, providing
normal stopping ability. You should
have the dealer inspect your car as
soon as possible.
CONTINUED
Driving

▲
▼
Four Wheel Steering, Driving in Bad Weather
At very slow speeds, the rear wheels The rear wheels return to the Driving in Bad Weather
steer in the opposite direction to the straight ahead position when you
front wheels. This helps in turn off the engine. They also return
maneuvers such as parallel parking to straight ahead if you sit still for
and U-turns. more than two minutes with the
engine running. They return to
At higher speeds, the rear wheels steering mode as soon as you move
first steer in the same direction as the steering wheel or start to drive
the front wheels. This aids with away.
changing lanes. As you turn the
steering wheel more, the rear wheels The 4WS system is self-checking. If
return to straight ahead and then it detects a problem anywhere in the
steer in the opposite direction to the system, it turns on the 4WS indicator
front wheels. This gives improved on the instrument panel (see page
handling when going around curves 35) and points the rear wheels Rain, fog, and snow conditions re-
at highway speeds. straight ahead. Your car will then quire a different driving technique
drive like a conventional car without because of reduced traction and
4WS. visibility. Keep your car well-
maintained and exercise greater
caution when you need to drive in
bad weather. The cruise control
should not be used in these condi-
tions.
Driving

▲
▼
Driving in Bad Weather
Driving Technique — Always drive Visibility — Being able to see Traction — Check your tires
slower than you would in dry clearly in all directions and being frequently for wear and proper
weather. It takes your car longer to visible to other drivers are important pressure. Both are important in
react, even in conditions that may in all weather conditions. This is preventing "hydroplaning" (loss of
seem just barely damp. Apply more difficult in bad weather. To be traction on a wet surface). In the
smooth, even pressure to all the seen more clearly during daylight winter, mount snow tires on all four
controls. Abrupt steering wheel hours, turn on your headlights. wheels for the best handling.
movements or sudden, hard appli-
cation of the brakes can cause loss of Inspect your windshield wipers and Watch road conditions carefully,
control in wet weather. Be extra washers frequently. Keep the wind- they can change from moment to
cautious for the first few miles of shield washer reservoir full of the moment. Wet leaves can be as slip-
driving while you adjust to the proper fluid. Have the windshield pery as ice. "Clear" roads can have
change in driving conditions. This is wiper blades replaced if they start to patches of ice. Driving conditions
especially true in snow. A person can streak the windshield or leave parts can be very hazardous when the
forget some snow-driving techniques unwiped. Use the defrosters and air outside temperature is near freezing.
during the summer months. Practice conditioning to keep the windows The road surface can become
is needed to relearn those skills. from fogging up on the inside (see covered with areas of water puddles
page 78). mixed with areas of ice, so your
Exercise extra caution when driving traction can change without warning.
in rain after a long dry spell. After
months of dry weather, the first Be careful when downshifting. If
rains bring oil to the surface of the traction is low, you can lock up the
roadway, making it slippery. drive wheels for a moment and cause
a skid.
CONTINUED
Driving

▲
▼
Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer
Towing a Trailer The total weight of the trailer and

Your Honda is designed primarily to everything loaded in it must not
carry passengers and their cargo. exceed 450 kg (1,000 Ibs).
You can use it to tow a trailer if you
carefully observe some general rules. The "tongue load" should never
exceed 50 kg (110 Ibs). This is the
amount of weight the trailer puts
on the hitch when it is fully-loaded.
As a rule of thumb, the tongue
load should be 10% of the total
trailer package. For example, if
the trailer and its load weigh 225
kg (500 Ibs), the tongue load
should be 22.5 kg (50 Ibs). Adjust
Be very cautious when passing, or the trailer's cargo to change the
being passed by other vehicles. The tongue load. Start by putting
spray from large vehicles reduces approximately 60% of the cargo
your visibility, and the wind buffeting toward the front and 40% toward
can cause you to lose control. the rear. Never load the trailer so
the back is heavier than the front.
This takes weight off your car's
rear axle and reduces traction.
Driving

▲
▼
Towing a Trailer
The combined weight of the car, Trailer Hitches

all passengers and their luggage, Your Honda dealer, or the Honda
and tongue load must not exceed Improperly loading your car and Customer Relations Zone Office, can
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. trailer can seriously affect its give you advice on the proper hitch
The GVWR is printed on the steering and braking for your car. Never use a hitch that
Certification label attached to the performance, causing a crash mounts only to the rear bumper. The
driver's doorjamb (see page 212). in which you can be seriously bumper is not designed to handle
injured. that type of load. The hitch should
The combined weight of the car, bolt to the underbody of the car and
all passengers and their luggage, Check the loading of your car distribute the load over a wide area.
and tongue load also must not and trailer carefully before Always have a trailer hitch installed
exceed the Gross Axle Weight starting to drive. by a qualified technician.
Rating. The GAWR is also shown
on the Certification label. It tells NOTICE
you the maximum load for the The best way to confirm that your
front and rear axles. It is possible total towing package is within these A trailer hitch that is not adequate for
that your towing package does not specifications is to get it weighed. the size of the trailer, or a hitch that is
exceed the GVWR but does Load the car and trailer as you improperly installed, can cause damage
exceed the GAWR. Improper normally would while towing, and to the underside of your car.
trailer loading, and/or too much take them to a public scale. Have
luggage in the trunk can overload them check the total weight and the
the rear axle. Redistribute the load weight at each axle, then compare
and check the axle weights again. them to the specifications.
Driving

▲
▼
Towing a Trailer
Mirrors Connecting the Trailer Before Starting Out

Many states and provinces have laws Most trailers that have a gross As you are preparing to tow your
requiring special outside mirrors weight of 450 kg (1,000 Ibs) do not trailer, do the following:
when you are towing a trailer. Check have their own braking system. If
the laws in your area. You may want you are thinking of getting a trailer Measure the trailer's tongue load.
to install mirrors, even if they are not that does have brakes, make sure You can do this with a bathroom
required. Hook up the trailer and see they are electrically-operated. There scale.
how much it obscures your ability to are no provisions in your car to tap Verify that the hitch and safety
see behind you with the standard into its hydraulic braking system. chain are securely fastened.
mirrors. If you cannot see directly Any attempt to attach the trailer's Check the condition and air
behind you, or have a large blind brakes to your car's hydraulic pressure of all tires on the trailer
spot next to the trailer or the car, system, no matter how successful it and your car. Low tire pressure
you should install mirrors intended may seem, will lower braking can seriously affect the handling.
for towing. effectiveness and create a potential Also check the spare tire.
hazard. With everything loaded and the
trailer connected, check that the
Always use a safety chain when rear of the car is not sagging. If so,
towing a trailer. Connect the safety redistribute the load in the car.
chain securely at both ends. Make Check that all lights on the car are
sure the chain crosses under the working properly.
tongue so it will catch the trailer if it
becomes unhitched. Leave enough
slack in the chain so it can't bind in a
sharp turn. Do not let it drag on the
ground.
Driving

▲
▼
Towing a Trailer
Towing Safety The car/trailer combination is more This extra load is magnified when
Your car will not stop as quickly with affected by crosswinds and buffeting. you are driving in hilly terrain.
a trailer in tow. Leave extra distance When being passed by a large Watch the temperature gauge
between your car and other vehicles. vehicle, keep a constant speed and closely when climbing hills. If it gets
Avoid braking or turning suddenly. steer straight ahead. If there is too near the hot area, turn off the air
This could cause the trailer to much wind buffeting, slow down to conditioning (if it is on). If this does
jackknife or possibly turn over. get out of the other vehicle's air not reduce the heat, it may be
turbulence. necessary to pull to the side of the
Keep in mind that your total vehicle road and wait for the engine to cool.
is now much longer. Leave more Towing a trailer puts an extra load If the automatic transmission shifts
room when making turns. The trailer on your car. You should have your frequently between 3rd and 4th
tracks a smaller arc than the car and car serviced according to the gears, put it in D3. This will help
can hit or run over something that "Maintenance schedule under severe prevent the transmission from
the car misses. When passing driving conditions" on page 133. overheating. Help keep the brakes
another vehicle, make sure the from overheating by shifting to a
trailer is clear before changing lanes. lower gear when going downhill.
If you have to stop while going uphill,
do not hold the car in place by
pressing on the accelerator. This can
cause the automatic transmission to
overheat. Use the parking brake or
footbrake.
CONTINUED
Driving

▲
▼
Towing a Trailer
When parking your car and trailer,

especially on a hill, be sure to follow
all the normal precautions. Turn
your front wheels into the curb, set
the parking brake firmly, and put the
transmission in 1st or Reverse
(manual) or Park (automatic). In
addition, place wheel chocks at each
of the trailer's tires.
Backing up with a trailer is difficult

and takes practice. Drive slowly,
make small movements with the
steering wheel, and have someone
stand outside to guide you. Grip the
steering wheel on the bottom (rather
than the usual position near the top).
Move your hand to the left to get the
trailer to move to the left, and right
to move the trailer right.
Driving

▲
▼
Main Menu
Maintenance
This section explains why it is Maintenance Safety....................... 128 Clutch System............................ 153
important to keep your car well Important Safety Precautions.. 129 Power Steering............................... 153
maintained and to follow basic Maintenance Schedule.................. 130 Air Cleaner..................................... 154
maintenance safety precautions. Maintenance Record..................... 134 Fuel Filter....................................... 155
Periodic Checks............................. 136 Spark Plugs..................................... 155
This section also includes Fluid Locations............................... 137 Replacement............................... 155
Maintenance Schedules for normal Engine Oil....................................... 138 Specification............................... 157
driving and severe driving conditions, Checking Engine Oil................. 138 Battery............................................ 157
a Maintenance Record, and Adding......................................... 138 Windshield Wipers........................ 160
instructions for simple maintenance Recommended Oil..................... 139 Air Conditioning............................. 162
tasks you may want to take care of Additives..................................... 140 Drive Belts...................................... 163
yourself. Oil and Filter Changes.............. 141 Tires................................................ 163
Cooling System.............................. 144 Inflation....................................... 164
If you have the skills and tools Checking the Engine Coolant Inspection................................... 165
required to perform more complex Level........................................ 144 Maintenance............................... 165
maintenance tasks on your Honda, Adding Engine Coolant............. 144 Tire Rotation.............................. 166
you may want to purchase the Replacing Engine Coolant........ 146 Replacing Tires and Wheels.... 166
Service Manual. See page 231 for Windshield Washers..................... 148 Wheels and Tires....................... 167
information on how to obtain a copy, Transmission Oil............................ 149 Winter Driving........................... 167
or see your Honda dealer. Automatic Snow Tires.............................. 168
Transmission.......................... 149 Tire Chains............................. 168
5-speed Manual Lights.............................................. 169
Transmission.......................... 150 Replacing Bulbs......................... 169
Brake and Clutch Fluid................. 151 Storing Your Car............................ 179
Brake System............................. 151
Anti-lock Brake System............ 152
Maintenance

▲
▼
Maintenance Safety
Regularly maintaining your car is the This section includes instructions for Some of the most important safety
best way to protect your investment. simple maintenance tasks, such as precautions are given in the next
Proper maintenance is essential to checking and adding oil. Any service page. However, we cannot warn you
your safety and the safety of your items not detailed in this section of every conceivable hazard that can
passengers. It will also reward you should be performed by a Honda arise in performing maintenance.
with more economical, trouble-free technician or other qualified Only you can decide whether or not
driving and help reduce air pollution. mechanic. you should perform a given task.
Improperly maintaining this car Failure to properly follow

or failing to correct a problem maintenance instructions and
before driving can cause a precautions can cause you to
crash in which you can be be seriously hurt or killed.
seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures
Always follow the inspection and precautions in this owner's
and maintenance manual.
recommendations and
schedules in this owner's
manual.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Maintenance Safety
Important Safety Precautions Read the instructions before you

Before you begin any maintenance, begin, and make sure you have the
make sure your car is parked on tools and skills required.
level ground and that the parking
brake is on. Also, be sure the engine To reduce the possibility of fire or
is off. This will help to eliminate explosion, be careful when working
several potential hazards: around gasoline or batteries. Use a
nonflammable solvent, not gasoline,
Carbon monoxide poisoning to clean parts. Keep cigarettes,
from engine exhaust. Be sure sparks, and flames away from the
there is adequate ventilation battery and all fuel-related parts.
whenever you operate the engine.
You should wear eye protection and
Burns from hot parts. Let the protective clothing when working
engine and exhaust system cool near the battery or when using
before touching any parts. compressed air.
Injury from moving parts. Do

not run the engine unless
instructed to do so.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Maintenance Schedule
The Maintenance Schedule specifies The services and time or distance Which Schedule to Follow:
how often you should have your car intervals shown in the maintenance Service your car according to the
serviced and what things need schedule assume you will use your time and mileage periods on one of
attention. It is essential that you have car as normal transportation. You the Maintenance Schedules on pages
your car serviced as scheduled to should: 132 and 133. Select the schedule for
retain its high level of safety, "Severe Conditions" if most of your
dependability, and emission control Avoid exceeding your car's load driving is done under one or more of
performance. limit. This puts excess stress on the conditions listed on that page.
the engine, brakes, and many Otherwise, follow the schedule for
other parts of your car. The load "Normal Conditions."
limit is shown on the label on the
driver's door jamb.
Operate your car on reasonable

roads within the legal speed limit.
Drive your car regularly over a

distance of several kilometers
(miles).
Always use unleaded gasoline with

the proper octane (see page 98).
Maintenance

▲
▼
Maintenance Schedule
Your authorized Honda dealer We recommend the use of Genuine According to state and federal
knows your car best and can provide Honda parts and fluids whenever you regulations, failure to perform
competent, efficient service. have maintenance done. These are maintenance on the items marked
However, service at a dealer is not manufactured to the same high- with an asterisk (*) will not void your
mandatory to keep your warranties quality standards as the original emissions warranties. However,
in effect. Maintenance may be done components, so you can be confident Honda recommends that all
by any qualified service facility or of their perfomance and durability. maintenance services be performed
person who is skilled in this type of at the recommended time or mileage
automotive service. Keep all the U.S. Cars: period to ensure long-term reliability.
receipts as proof of completion, and Maintenance, replacement or
have the person who does the work repair of emission control devices
fill out the Maintenance Record. and systems may be done by any
Check your warranty booklet for automotive repair establishment
more information. or individual using parts that are
"certified" to EPA standards.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Maintenance Schedule (Normal Conditions)

Follow the Normal Maintenance
Schedule if the severe driving
conditions specified in the
Severe Conditions Maintenance
Schedule on the next page do
not apply.
For Canadian Owners:

This Maintenance Schedule
outlines the minimum required
maintenance that you should
perform to ensure the trouble-
free operation of your vehicle.
Due to regional and climatic
differences, some additional
servicing may be required.
Please consult your warranty
handbook for a more detailed
description.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Maintenance Schedule (Severe Conditions)

Follow the Severe Maintenance
Schedule if you drive your
vehicle MAINLY under one or
more of the following
conditions:
Driving less than 8 km (5

miles) per trip or, in freezing
temperatures, driving less
than 16 km (10 miles) per trip.
Driving in extremely hot
[over 90°F (32°C)] conditions.
Extensive idling or long
periods of stop-and-go driving.
Trailer towing, driving with a
car-top carrier, or driving in
mountainous conditions.
Driving on muddy, dusty, or
de-iced roads.
NOTE: If you only

OCCASIONALLY drive under a
"severe" condition, you should
follow the Normal Conditions
Maintenance Schedule on the
previous page.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Required Maintenance Record

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

▲
▼
Non-Scheduled Maintenance Record

Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non-scheduled maintenance on this page (see page 133).
Maintenance

▲
▼
Periodic Checks
You should check the following Engine oil level — Check every Tires — Check the tire pressure
items at the specified intervals. If time you fill the fuel tank. See monthly. Examine the tread for
you are unsure of how to perform page 102. wear and foreign objects. See page
any check, turn to the page given. 164.
Engine coolant level — Check the
radiator reserve tank every time Battery — Check its condition and
you fill the fuel tank. See page 103. the terminals for corrosion
monthly. See page 157.
Windshield washer fluid — Check
the level in the reservoir monthly. Air conditioning — Check its
If weather conditions cause you to operation weekly. See page 162.
use the washers frequently, check
the reservoir each time you stop Lights — Check the operation of
for fuel. See page 148. the headlights, parking lights,
taillights, high-mount brake light,
Automatic transmission — Check turn signals, brake lights, and
the fluid level monthly. See page license plate lights monthly. See
149. page 169.
Brakes, clutch and power steering

— Check the fluid level monthly.
See page 151.
Maintenance

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

(Orange loop)
Maintenance

▲
▼
Engine Oil
Checking Engine Oil Adding

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

▲
▼
Engine Oil
Recommended Oil The API Service label also tells you The oil container may also display
Oil is a major contributor to your the service classification of the oil. the API Certification mark shown
engine's performance and longevity. Always use an oil that says "API below. Make sure it says "For
Always use a premium-grade deter- Service SG or SH." This service Gasoline Engines."
gent oil. rating may also include other
designations, such as CD. These
You can determine an oil's SAE additional classifications are not a
viscosity and Service Classification problem, as long as the label also
from the API Service label on the oil carries the SG or SH classification.
container. An oil that is only classified SF is not
recommended.
A fuel-efficient oil is recommended
for your Honda. This is shown on the
API Service label by the words
"Energy Conserving I I . " This oil is
formulated to help your engine use API CERTIFICATION MARK
less fuel.
API SERVICE LABEL
: SG or SH
* *
CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Engine Oil
The SAE numbers tell you the oil's (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) Additives
viscosity or weight. Select the oil for Your Honda does not need any oil
your car according to this chart. additives. Purchasing additives for
the engine or transmission will not
(Except US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) increase your car's performance or
longevity. It only increases the cost
of operating your car.
Ambient Temperature
An oil with a viscosity of 10W-30 is

Ambient Temperature
preferred for improved fuel economy
and year-round protection in your
Honda. You may use a 5W-30 oil if
An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 is the climate in your area is within the
preferred for improved fuel economy temperature range shown on the
and year-round protection in your chart.
Honda. You may use a 10W-30 oil if
the temperature in your area never
goes below20°F(—7°C).
Maintenance

▲
▼
Engine Oil
Oil and Filter Changes Changing the oil and filter requires
Always change the oil and filter special tools and access from
according to the time and distance underneath the car. The car should
recommendations in the mainte- be raised on a service station-type
nance schedule. The oil and filter hydraulic lift for this service. Unless
collect contaminants that can dam- you have the knowledge and proper
age your engine if they are not equipment, you should have this
removed regularly. maintenance done by a skilled
mechanic.
1. Run the engine until it reaches

normal operating temperature, OIL DRAIN BOLT WASHER
then shut it off.
2. Open the hood and remove the
engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil
drain bolt from the bottom of the
engine. Drain the oil into an
appropriate container.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Engine Oil
OIL FILTER 4. Install a new oil filter according to 7. Replace the engine oil fill cap.
instructions that come with it. Start the engine. The oil pressure
indicator light should go out within
5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt, five seconds. If it does not, turn off
then reinstall the drain bolt. the engine and reinspect your
Tighten it to: work.
40 N.m (4.0 kg-m , 29 Ib-ft)
8. Let the engine run for several
6. Refill the engine with the recom- minutes and check the drain bolt
mended oil. and oil filter for leaks.
Engine oil change capacity
(including filter):
(US: S, Canada: S)
3. Remove the oil filter and let the 3.8 l (4.0 US qt, 3.3 Imp qt)
remaining oil drain. A special (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS)
wrench (available from your 4.3 l (4.5 US qt, 3.8 Imp qt)
Honda dealer) is required to (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V)
remove the filter. 4.8 l (5.1 US qt, 4.2 Imp qt)
Maintenance

▲
▼
Engine Oil
9. Turn off the engine, let it sit for The oil and filter should be changed
several minutes, then check the oil every 6 months or 12,000 km (7,500
level. If necessary, add oil to bring miles), whichever comes first. Under
the level to the upper mark on the severe driving conditions, they
dipstick. should be changed every 3 months
or 6,000 km (3,750 miles). See page
NOTICE 133 for a description of severe
driving conditions.
If you change your own oil, please
dispose of the used oil properly. Put it
in a sealed container and take it to a
recycling center. Do not discard it in a
trash bin or dump it on the ground.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Cooling System
Checking the Engine Coolant Always use Genuine Honda Anti- Adding Engine Coolant
Level freeze/Coolant. The cooling system If the reserve tank is completely
contains many aluminum compo- empty, you should also check the
nents which can corrode if an coolant level in the radiator.
improper antifreeze is used. Some
antifreeze, even though labeled as
safe for aluminum parts, may not
MAX provide adequate protection. Removing the radiator cap
while the engine is hot can
MIN cause the coolant to spray out,
seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and

RESERVE TANK radiator cool down before
removing the radiator cap.
Check the level of the engine coolant
by looking at the radiator reserve
tank next to the battery. If the level
is at or below the MIN line, add
coolant to bring it up to the MAX line.
This coolant should always be a
mixture of 50% antifreeze and 50%
water. Never add straight antifreeze
or plain water.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Cooling System
RADIATOR CAP 3. Remove the radiator cap by

pushing down and turning
counterclockwise.
4. The coolant level should be up to

the base of the filler neck. Add
coolant if it is low.
5. Put the radiator cap back on.

Tighten it fully.
RESERVE TANK
1. Make sure the engine and 6. Pour coolant into the reserve tank.
radiator are cool. Fill it to halfway between the MAX
and M I N marks. Put the cap back
2. Turn the radiator cap counter- on the reserve tank.
clockwise, without pressing down
on it, until it stops. This relieves
any pressure remaining in the
cooling system.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Cooling System
Do not add any rust inhibitors or DRAIN

other additives to your car's cooling PLUG
system. They may not be compatible
DRAIN
with the coolant or engine compo- BOLT
nents.
Replacing Engine Coolant

The cooling system should be
completely drained and refilled with
new coolant according to the time
and distance recommendations in
the maintenance schedule. Only use
recommended antifreeze.
1. Slide the heater temperature 3. Loosen the drain plug on the
Draining the coolant requires access control lever to maximum heat. bottom of the radiator. The
to the underside of the car. Unless Open the hood. Make sure the coolant will drain through the
you have the tools and knowledge, engine and radiator are cool to the splash guard. Remove the drain
you should have this maintenance touch. bolt from the engine block.
done by a skilled mechanic.
2. Remove the radiator cap.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Cooling System
RESERVE TANK FILLER NECK With automatic transmission:

(US: S, Canada: S)
3.4 l (0.90 US gal, 0.75 Imp gal)
(US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS)
3.7 l (0.98 US gal, 0.81 Imp gal)
7. Pour coolant into the radiator up

to the base of the filler neck.
RESERVE
HOLDER TANK CAP Fill up to here
4. Remove the reserve tank from its 6. Mix the recommended antifreeze
holder by pulling it straight up. with an equal amount of purified
Drain the coolant, then put the or distilled water in a clean
tank back in its holder. container. The cooling system
capacity is:
5. When the coolant stops draining,
tighten the drain plug in the With manual transmission:
bottom of the radiator. Apply non- (US: S, Canada: S)
hardening sealant to the drain bolt 3.5 l (0.92 US gal, 0.77 Imp gal)
threads and reinstall the bolt in (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS)
the engine block. Tighten it 3.8 l (1.00 US gal, 0.84 Imp gal)
securely. (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V)
4.0 l (1.06 US gal, 0.88 Imp gal) CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Cooling System, Windshield Washers
Windshield Washers
BLEEDER
BOLT
FLOAT
RESERVE TANK
8. Loosen the bleeder bolt on top of 10.Turn off the engine. Check the
the engine. Tighten it again when level in the radiator, add coolant if Check the level in the windshield
coolant comes out in a steady needed. Install the radiator cap, washer reservoir at least monthly
stream with no bubbles. tighten it fully. during normal usage. In bad weather,
when you use the washers often,
9. Refill the radiator to the base of 11.Fill the reserve tank to the MAX check the level every time you stop
the filler neck. Put the cap on the mark. Install the reserve tank cap. for fuel.
radiator, only tighten it to the first
stop. Start the engine and let it run
until it warms up (the radiator
cooling fan comes on at least
twice).
Maintenance

▲
▼
Windshield Washers, Transmission Oil
The windshield washer reservoir is NOTICE Transmission Oil

located behind the left headlight. Automatic Transmission
Check the reservoir's fluid level by Do not use engine antifreeze or a
DIPSTICK
removing the cap and looking at the vinegar/water solution in the
float. It should be up to the top of the windshield washer reservoir.
neck. If the float is at the bottom of
the neck, the reservoir is nearly Antifreeze can damage your car's paint,
empty. while a vinegar/water solution can
damage the windshield washer pump.
Fill the reservoir with a good-quality
windshield washer fluid. This Use only commercially-available
increases the cleaning capability and windshield washer fluid.
prevents freezing in cold weather.
Check the fluid level with the engine

at normal operating temperature.
1. Park the car on level ground. Shut

off the engine.
2. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop)

from the transmission and wipe it
with a clean cloth.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Transmission Oil
5. If the level is below the lower 5-speed Manual Transmission

mark, add fluid into the tube to
bring it to the upper mark. Use Correct FILLER BOLT
Honda Premium Formula Auto- level
matic Transmission Fluid or an
equivalent DEXRON® II Auto-
matic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
only.
6. Insert the dipstick all the way back

in the transmission.
The transmission should be drained

UPPER MARK and refilled with new fluid every 24
LOWER MARK
months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), Check the oil level a couple of mi-
3. Insert the dipstick all the way into whichever comes first. Shorten this nutes after shutting off the engine.
the transmission. to every 12 months or 24,000 km Make sure the car is on level ground.
(15,000 miles) under severe driving Remove the transmission filler bolt.
4. Remove the dipstick and check conditions (see page 133). The oil level should be up to the
the fluid level. It should be edge of the bolt hole. Feel inside the
between the upper and lower bolt hole with your finger. If you do
marks. not feel any oil, slowly add oil until it
starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall
the filler bolt and tighten it securely.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Transmission Oil, Brake and Clutch Fluid
Only use an API Service SF or SG Brake and Clutch Fluid Brake System
grade motor oil with a viscosity of Check the fluid level in the reser-
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. voirs monthly. There are up to three
reservoirs, depending on model.
The transmission should be drained They are:
and refilled with new oil every 24
months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), Brake fluid reservoir (all models) MAX
whichever comes first. Shorten the Clutch fluid reservoir MIN
service interval to every 12 months (Manual transmission only)
or 24,000 km (15,000 miles) under ABS reservoir
severe driving conditions (see page (Except S model)
133).
The brake fluid in the brake and
Anti-lock brake systems should be
replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km The fluid should be between the
(30,000 miles), whichever comes MIN and MAX marks on the side of
first. the reservoir. If the level is at or
below the MIN mark, it is an
indication that your brake system
needs attention. Have the brake
system inspected for leaks or worn
brake pads.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Brake and Clutch Fluid
If you add brake fluid to bring it up Anti-lock Brake System If the fluid level is half an inch or
to the MAX mark, use Genuine more above the MAX mark, it may
Honda Brake Fluid or an equivalent indicate a problem in the ABS. Have
from a sealed container that is your dealer inspect the system as
marked DOT3 or DOT4 only. Brake soon as possible.
fluid marked DOT5 is not compatible
with your car's braking system. MAX If you add brake fluid to bring it up
to the MAX mark, use the same
MIN DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid from a
sealed container specified for the
brake system.
Check the fluid level in this reservoir

after driving the car for at least a few
minutes. It should be between the
M I N and MAX marks on the side of
the reservoir. If it is at or below the
M I N mark, it may indicate a problem
in the braking system. Have the
dealer inspect your car.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Brake and Clutch Fluid, Power Steering
Clutch System Power Steering NOTICE

Using automatic transmission fluid or
another brand of power steering fluid
will damage the system. Use only
GENUINE HONDA Power Steering
Fluid-V.
UPPER A low power steering fluid level can

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

▲
▼
Air Cleaner
The air cleaner element should be CLAMPS

replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km
(30,000 miles), whichever comes
first. Under severe driving condi-
tions, it should also be cleaned every
12 months or 24,000 km (15,000
miles), whichever comes first.
Cleaning (Severe Conditions)

Clean the air cleaner element by
blowing compressed air through it in
the opposite direction to normal air AIR CLEANER ELEMENT
flow. If you do not have access to
compressed air (such as a gas The air cleaner element is inside the 3. Place the new air cleaner element
station), ask your Honda dealer to do box on the passenger's side of the in the air cleaner housing.
this service. engine compartment.
To replace it: 4. Reinstall the air cleaner housing
Follow the replacement procedure cover, snap the four hold-down
for removal and reinstallation. 1. Unsnap the four hold-down clamps clamps back into place.
and remove the air cleaner
housing cover.
2. Remove the old air cleaner

element.
Clean the inside of the air cleaner
housing with a damp rag.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Fuel Filter, Spark Plugs
Fuel Filter Spark Plugs Replacement

The fuel filter should be replaced (Except US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V)
SPARK PLUG CAP
every 4 years or 96,000 km (60,000 The original spark plugs in your car
miles), whichever comes first. need to be replaced every 2 years or
48,000 km (30,000 miles), whichever
Have a qualified technician change comes first.
the fuel filter. Since the fuel system
is under pressure, gasoline can spray (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V)
out and create a hazard if all fuel line The original spark plugs in your car
connections are not handled are a special platinum-tipped design
correctly. for longer life. They only need to be
replaced every 6 years or 96,000 km
The filter may require replacement (60,000 miles), whichever comes
sooner if you happen to buy one or first.
more tankfuls of contaminated 1. US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V:
gasoline. Have the filter tested or Remove the four nuts, then
replaced if you suspect it has been remove the spark plug cover.
clogged by contaminants. 2. Clean up any dirt and oil around
the spark plug caps.
3. Remove the spark plug cap by
pulling it straight out.
4. Remove the spark plug, using a 16
mm (5/8 inch) spark plug socket.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Spark Plugs
NOTICE
Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A
spark plug that is too loose can
overheat and damage the engine.
Overtightening can cause damage to
the threads in the cylinder head.
7. Install the spark plug cap.
8. Repeat this procedure for the

other three spark plugs.
(US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V)
Reinstall the plug wire cover and
5. Put the new spark plug into the 6. Torque the spark plug. (If you do tighten the four nuts.
socket, then thread it into the hole. not have a torque wrench, tighten
Screw it in by hand so you do not the spark plug 2/3 turn after it
crossthread it. contacts the cylinder head.)
Tightening torque:
18 N.m (1.8 kg-m, 13 Ib-ft)
Maintenance

▲
▼
Spark Plugs, Battery
Specifications: (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) Battery

Normal driving conditions Check the condition of your car's
(US: S, Canada: S) NGK: PZFR6F-11 battery monthly. You should check
Normal driving conditions Nippondenso: PKJ20CR-L11 for proper electrolyte level and
NGK: ZFR5F-11 Hot climates, or continuous high corrosion on the terminals.
Nippondenso: KJ16CR-L11 speed driving
Hot climates, or continuous high NGK: PFR7G-11
speed driving Nippondenso: PK22PR-L11
NGK: ZFR6F-11 Spark Plug Gap: The battery contains sulfuric
Nippondenso: KJ20CR-L11 1.1 mm (0.04 in) acid (electrolyte) which is highly
Spark Plug Gap: corrosive and poisonous.
1.1 m m (0.04 in)
Getting electrolyte in your eyes
(US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) or on your skin can cause
Normal driving conditions serious burns.
NGK: ZFR6F-11
Nippondenso: KJ20CR-L11 Wear protective clothing and
Hot climates, or continuous high eye protection when working
speed driving near the battery.
NGK: ZFR7F-11
Nippondenso: KJ22CR-L11
Spark Plug Gap:
1.1 m m (0.04 in)
CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Battery
Emergency Procedures
Eyes — Flush with water from a cup

or other container for at least fifteen
minutes. (Water under pressure can
damage the eye.) Immediately call a
physician or 911.
Skin — Remove contaminated

clothing. Flush the skin with large
quantities of water. Call a physician
immediately. TEST INDICATOR WINDOW
Swallowing — Drink water or milk. Check the battery condition by Check the battery terminals for
Call your local Poison Control Center looking at the test indicator window corrosion (a white or yellowish
or a physician immediately. on the battery: powder). To remove it, cover the
Blue — Good condition terminals with a solution of baking
Red — Add distilled water soda and water. It will bubble up and
White — Charging necessary turn brown. When this stops, wash it
off with plain water. Dry off the
battery with a cloth or paper towel.
Coat the terminals with grease to
help prevent future corrosion.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Battery
If the terminals are severely cor- Except S model

roded, clean them with baking soda If your car's battery is disconnected
and water. Then use a wrench to The battery gives off explosive or goes dead, the audio system will
loosen and remove the cables from hydrogen gas during normal disable itself. The next time you turn
the terminals. Always disconnect the operation. on the radio you will see "Code" in
negative ( — ) cable first and recon- the frequency display. Use the
nect it last. Clean the battery termi- A spark or flame can cause the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit
nals with a terminal cleaning tool or battery to explode with enough code (see page 95).
wire brush. Reconnect and tighten force to kill or seriously hurt you.
the cables, then coat the terminals NOTICE
with grease. Wear protective clothing and a
face shield, or have a skilled Charging the battery with the cables
When reconnecting the positive ( + ) mechanic do the battery connected can seriously damage your
terminal on manual transmission maintenance. car's electronic controls. Detach the
models, make sure to place the cable battery cables before connecting the
securely in the clamp in the plate. battery to a charger.
If you need to connect the battery to

a charger, disconnect both cables to
prevent damage to the car's electri-
cal system.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Windshield Wipers
Check the condition of the wind- WIPER ARMS

shield wiper blades at least every six
months. Look for signs of cracking
in the rubber, or areas that are
getting hard. Replace the blades if
you find these signs, or they leave
streaks and unwiped areas when
used.
LOCK TAB
To replace: 2. Disconnect the blade assembly

from the wiper arm by pushing in
1. Raise the wiper arm off the the lock tab. Hold it in while you
windshield. push the blade assembly toward
the base of the arm.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Windshield Wipers
5. Slide the new wiper blade into the

BLADE BLADE holder until the tabs lock.
6. Slide the new blade assembly onto

the wiper arm. Make sure it locks
in place.
7. Lower the wiper arm down against

the windshield.
REINFORCEMENT
3. Remove the blade from its holder 4. Examine the new wiper blades. If
by grasping the tabbed end of the they have no plastic or metal rein-
blade. Pull firmly until the tabs forcement along the back edge,
come out of the holder. remove the metal reinforcement
strips from the old wiper blade and
install them in the slots along the
edge of the new blade.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Air Conditioning
Optional for Canadian S model Periodically check the engine's If the air conditioning does not get as
Your car's air conditioning is a sealed radiator and air conditioning cold as before, have your dealer
system. Any major maintenance, condenser for leaves, insects, and check the system. Recharge the
such as recharging, should be done dirt stuck to the front surface. These system with Refrigerant HFC-134a
by a qualified technician. There are a block the air flow and reduce cooling (R-134a). (See Specifications on page
couple of things you can do to make efficiency. Use a light spray from a 215.)
sure the air conditioning works hose or a soft brush to remove them.
efficiently. NOTICE
NOTICE
AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER Whenever you have the air conditioning
The condenser and radiator fins bend system serviced, make sure the service
easily. Only use a low-pressure spray facility uses a refrigerant recycling
or soft-bristle brush to clean them. system. This system captures the
refrigerant for reuse. Releasing
Run the air conditioning at least once refrigerant into the atmosphere can
a week during the cold weather damage the environment.
months. Run it for at least ten
minutes while you are driving at a
steady speed with the engine at
normal operating temperature. This
circulates the lubricating oil con-
tained in the refrigerant.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Drive Belts, Tires
Drive Belts The belts should have the following Tires

"play" or deflection. To safely operate your car, your tires
POWER STEERING BELT
Alternator belt: must be the proper type and size, in
(With air conditioning) good condition with adequate tread,
10.0 — 12.0 mm (0.39 — 0.47 in) and correctly inflated. The following
(Without air conditioning) pages give more detailed information
10.5 — 12.5 mm (0.41 — 0.49 in) on how and when to check air
Power steering belt: pressure, how to inspect your tires
13.5 — 16.5 mm (0.53 — 0.65 in) for damage, and what to do when
your tires need to be replaced.
If you see signs of wear or looseness,
have your dealer adjust or replace
ALTERNATOR
BELT
the belts.
Using tires that are excessively
Check the condition of the two drive worn or improperly inflated can
belts. Examine the edges of each cause a crash in which you can
belt for cracks or fraying. be seriously hurt or killed.
Check the tension of each belt by
pushing on it with your thumb Follow all instructions in this
midway between the pulleys. owner's manual regarding tire
inflation and maintenance.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Tires
Inflation before checking the tire pressure,

Keeping the tires properly inflated the tires can still be considered
provides the best combination of "cold" if you drive less than 1.6 km
handling, tread life and riding (1 mile).
comfort. Underinflated tires wear
unevenly, adversely affect handling If you check the pressure when the
and fuel economy, and are more tires are hot (the car has been driven
likely to fail from being overheated. several miles), you will see readings
Overinflated tires can make your car 28 to 41 kPa (0.3 to 0.4 kg/cm 2 , 4 to
ride more harshly, are more prone to 6 psi) higher than the cold reading.
damage from road hazards, and wear This is normal. Do not let air out to
unevenly. match the specified cold pressure.
The tire will be underinflated. The compact spare tire pressure is:
We recommend that you visually 415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm 2 , 60 psi)
check your tires every day and use a Recommended Tire Pressures for
gauge to measure the air pressure at Normal Driving The pressures are also given on the
least once a month. If you think a tire The following chart shows the tire information label on the driver's
might be low, check it immediately. recommended cold tire pressures for doorjamb.
Remember to check the spare tire at most normal driving conditions and
the same time you check all the speeds. Tire pressures for high
other tires. speed driving are shown on page
219.
Check the pressure in the tires when
they are cold. This means the car
has been parked for at least three
hours. If you have to drive the car
Maintenance

▲
▼
Tires
You should get your own tire You should look for: Your car's tires have wear indicators
pressure gauge and use it whenever molded into the tread. When the
you check your tire pressures. This Bumps or bulges in the tread or tread wears down to that point, you
will make it easier for you to tell if a side of the tire. Replace the tire if will see a 12.7 mm (1/2 inch) wide
pressure loss is due to a tire problem you find either of these conditions. band running across the tread. This
and not due to a variation between shows there is less than 1.6 mm
gauges. Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side (1/16 inch) of tread left on the tire.
of the tire. Replace the tire if you A tire that is this worn gives very
Tubeless tires have some ability to can see fabric or tread. little traction on wet roads. You
self-seal if they are punctured. should replace the tire if you can see
However, because leakage is often Excessive tread wear. the tread wear indicator in three or
very slow, you should look closely more places around the tire.
for punctures if a tire starts losing INDICATOR
LOCATION
pressure. MARKS Maintenance
In addition to proper inflation,
Inspection correct wheel alignment helps to
Every time you check inflation, you decrease tire wear. If you find a tire
should also examine the tires for is worn unevenly, have your dealer
damage, foreign objects, and wear. check the wheel alignment.
TREAD WEAR
INDICATORS
CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Tires
The tires were properly balanced by Tire Rotation You may find tires designated as
the factory. They may need to be "Directional Tires" on the market.
rebalanced at some time before they Front Front Those tires are designed to turn
are worn out. Have your dealer only in one direction. This
check the tires if you feel a consis- direction is indicated on the
tent vibration while driving. A tire sidewall of the tire by the turning
should always be rebalanced if it is direction indicator.
removed from the wheel for repair.
Replacing Tires and Wheels
Make sure the installer balances the The tires that came with your car
wheels when you have new tires were selected to match the perform-
installed. This increases riding (For Non- (For Directional ance capabilities of the car while
comfort and tire life. Your car's directional Tires Tires and Wheels) providing the best combination of
and Wheels)
original tires were dynamic or "spin" handling, ride comfort, and long life.
balanced at the factory. For best To help increase tire life and You should replace them with radial
results, have the installer perform a distribute wear more evenly, you tires of the same size, load range,
dynamic balance. should have the tires rotated every speed rating, and maximum cold tire
12,000 km (7,500 miles). Move the pressure rating (as shown on the
tires to the positions shown in the tire's sidewall). Mixing radial and
NOTICE bias-ply tires on your car can reduce
chart each time they are rotated.
(Except S) its braking ability, traction, and
Improper wheel weights can damage steering accuracy.
your car's aluminum wheels. Use only
genuine Honda wheel weights for
balancing.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Tires
If you ever need to replace a wheel, Winter Driving

make sure the wheel's specifications Tires that are marked "M + S" or
Installing improper tires on your match those of the original wheel "All Season" on the sidewall have an
car can affect handling and that came on your car. Replacement all-weather tread design. They
stability. This can cause a crash wheels are available at your Honda should be suitable for most winter
in which you can be seriously dealer. driving conditions. Tires without
hurt or killed. these markings are designed for
Wheels and Tires optimum traction in dry conditions.
Always use the size and type of Wheel: They may not provide adequate
tires recommended in this (S) performance in winter driving.
owner's manual. 14 x 5 1/2 JJ For the best performance in snowy
(Except S) or icy conditions, you should install
It is best to replace all four tires at 15 x 6 1/2 JJ snow tires or tire chains. They may
the same time. If that is not possible Tire: be required by local laws under
or necessary, then replace the two (S) certain conditions.
front tires or the two rear tires as a 185/70R14 87H
pair. Replacing just one tire can (Except S)
seriously affect your car's handling. 205/55R15 87V
The ABS works by comparing the See Tire Information on page 218 for
speed of the wheels. When replacing additional information about tire and
tires, use the same size originally wheel size designations. See page
supplied with the car. Tire size and 219 for information about DOT Tire
construction can affect wheel speed Quality Grading.
and may cause the system to work in-
consistently. CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Tires
Snow Tires Tire Chains NOTICE

If you mount snow tires on your Mount snow chains on your car
Honda, make sure they are radial when warranted by driving condi- Chains of the wrong size or that are
tires of the same size and load range tions or required by local laws. Make improperly installed can damage your
as the original tires. Mount snow sure the chains are the correct size car's brake lines, suspension, body, and
tires on all four wheels to balance for your tires. Install them only on wheels. Stop driving if you hear the
your car's handling in all weather the front tires. If metal chains are chains hitting any part of the car.
conditions. Keep in mind the traction used, they must be SAE class "S".
provided by snow tires on dry roads Cable type traction devices can also
may not be as high as your car's be used.
original equipment tires. You should
drive cautiously even when the roads When installing chains, follow the
are clear. Check with the tire dealer manufacturer's instructions and
for maximum speed recommenda- mount them as tightly as you can.
tions. Drive slowly with chains installed. If
you hear the chains contacting the
body or chassis, stop and tighten
them. If they still make contact, slow
down until it stops. Remove the
chains as soon as you begin driving
on cleared roads.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Lights
Check the operation of your car's Replacing a Headlight Bulb

exterior lights at least once a month. Your car has two bulbs on each side,
A burned out bulb can create an four in total. Make sure you are
unsafe condition by reducing your replacing the bulb that is burned out.
car's visibility and the ability to Your car uses halogen headlight
signal your intentions to other bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle
drivers. it by its plastic case and protect the
Check the following: glass from contact with your skin or
Headlights (low and high beam) hard objects. If you touch the glass,
Parking lights clean it with denatured alcohol and a
Taillights clean cloth.
Brake lights
High-mount brake light NOTICE
Turn signals 1. Open the hood.
Back-up lights Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot If you need to change the high
Hazard light function when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch beam headlight bulb on the
License plate light on the glass can cause the bulb to passenger's side, remove the
Side marker lights overheat and shatter. radiator reserve tank by pulling it
Daytime running lights straight up.
(Canadian cars)
2. To disconnect the bulb from the
If you find any bulbs are burned out, electrical harness, push on the end
replace them as soon as possible. of the lock tab to release the
Refer to the chart on page 215 to connector then push the connec-
determine what type of replacement tor straight down.
bulb is needed.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Lights
3. Turn the lock ring counterclock- Replacing a Parking Light Bulb

wise (about one-quarter turn) to
unlock the headlight bulb. SCREW
4. Remove the bulb by pulling it
straight out of its recess.
5. Install the new bulb with the
electrical connector pointing down.
Make sure all three tabs on the
bulb are seated in their slots in the
headlight.
6. Turn the lock ring clockwise to
lock the bulb in place. Do not force
the ring. Check the seating of the
bulb's tabs if the ring will not
return to its original position. 1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 2. Move the parking light assembly
7. Reinstall the harness connector on remove the screw from the top of forward until it slides out of the
the bulb connector. Make sure it the fender. body.
locks in place.
Turn on the headlights to test the 3. Turn the socket one-quarter turn
new bulb. counterclockwise to remove it
8. (Passenger's side) from the lens.
Reinstall the radiator reserve tank.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Lights
4. Pull the bulb straight out of its Replacing a Front Side Marker
socket. Light Bulb
Push the new bulb straight into
the socket until it bottoms. BULB
5. Insert the socket back into the

lens. Turn it clockwise to lock it in
place.
6. Turn on the parking lights to

make sure the new bulb works.
7. To reinstall the light assembly in FRONT SIDE

SCREW MARKER
the fender, line up the fingers on ASSEMBLY BULB HOLDER
the light assembly with the holes
in the fender. Push the light 1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 3. Remove the bulb holder from the
assembly straight back. loosen the side marker assembly's side marker assembly by turning it
mounting screw. one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
8. Install the mounting screw and
tighten it securely. 2. Remove the side marker assembly 4. Pull the bulb straight out of its
from the bumper. socket.
the socket until it bottoms.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

▲
▼
Lights
5. Push the bulb holder into the side Replacing a Front Turn Signal
marker assembly and turn it clock- Light Bulb
wise until it locks.
TURN SIGNAL ASSEMBLY
6. Test the side marker to make sure
the new bulb is working.
7. Put the side marker assembly into

the bumper. Make sure the tab on
the side marker assembly fits into
the bumper slot. Tighten the
mounting screw.
BULB
SCREW
BULB HOLDER
1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 3. Remove the bulb holder from the

loosen the turn signal assembly's turn signal assembly by turning it
mounting screw. counterclockwise.
2. Remove the turn signal assembly 4. Remove the burned out bulb from
from the bumper. the socket by pushing it in and
turning counterclockwise until it
unlocks.
Install the new bulb.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Lights
5. Push the bulb holder into the turn Replacing a High-mount Brake
signal assembly and turn it Light Bulb
clockwise until it locks. (US: S, Si, Canada: S, SR)
6. Test the lights to make sure the

new bulb is working.
7. Put the turn signal assembly into

the bumper. Make sure the tab on
the turn signal assembly fits into
the bumper slot. Tighten the
mounting screw.
COVER
1. Remove the cover by pulling it 4. Test the lights to make sure the
down and sliding it forward. new bulb is working.
2. Determine which bulb is burned 5. Reinstall the cover by sliding it

out. into position and pushing it up.
3. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket.
the socket until it bottoms.
Maintenance

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▼
Lights
Replacing Rear Bulbs 4. Install the new bulb in the socket.

Test it to make sure it works.
COVER
5. Reinstall the bulb holder assembly.
Install the two screws and tighten
them securely.
1. Open the trunk and the taillight 3. Try the tail/stoplights, rear turn
assembly cover. signals and back-up lights to verify
which bulb needs replacing.
2. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to Remove that bulb from the socket
remove the two screws from the by pushing it in slightly and
bulb holder. Remove the holder turning it counterclockwise.
from the taillight assembly.
Maintenance

▲
▼
Lights
Replacing a Rear Side Marker 5. Insert the socket in the assembly.

Light Bulb Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
6. Reinstall the side marker assem-

bly in the fender. Tighten the
mounting screw securely.
SCREW
1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 3. Remove the socket from the light

loosen the side marker assembly assembly by turning it counter-
mounting screw. clockwise.
2. Remove the assembly from the 4. Remove the bulb from the socket
fender by pulling out the back by pulling it straight out.
edge and sliding the assembly Install the new bulb. Turn on the
backwards. headlights to test the bulb.
Maintenance

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▼
Lights
Replacing a Rear License Bulb 4. Turn on the parking lights and Replacing a Ceiling Light Bulb
check that the new bulb is 1. Remove the lens by carefully
working. prying on the edge of the lens in
the middle with a fingernail file or
5. Reinstall the cover and the lens. a small flat-tip screwdriver. Do not
Put the license light assembly in pry on the edge of the housing
place. Reinstall the two screws and around the lens.
tighten them securely.
2. Remove the bulb by pulling it
straight out of its metal tabs.
3. Push the new bulb into the metal

tabs. Snap the lens back in place.
1. Remove the two screws and

remove the license light assembly.
2. Remove the lens from the rubber

seal and the metal cover.
3. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket. Push the new bulb in until
it bottoms in the socket.
Maintenance

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▼
Lights
On S and Si models in the U.S., and S On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR Replacing a Spotlight Bulb
and SR models in Canada 4WS and SR-V models in Canada On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR
4WS and SR-V models in Canada
The spotlight bulbs are in the ceiling
light housing.
1. Remove the ceiling light lens as

shown previously.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

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▼
Lights
Replacing a Trunk Light Bulb
SPOTLIGHT BULB
2. Remove the two screws and 4. Pull the bulb straight out of the
remove the ceiling light assembly. holder. Push the new bulb straight 1. Remove the lens by carefully
into the holder until it bottoms. prying on the edge of the lens with
3. Turn over the ceiling light a fingernail file or a small flat-tip
assembly. Remove the two screws 5. Test the lights to make sure the screwdriver. Do not pry on the
from the spotlight bulb holder. new bulb is working. edge of the housing around the
lens.
6. Reinstall the bulb holder and
ceiling light assembly in the 2. Remove the bulb by pulling it
reverse order of removal. Snap the straight out of its metal tabs.
ceiling light lens back in place.
3. Push the new bulb into the metal
tabs. Snap the lens back in place.
Maintenance

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▼
Storing Your Car
If you need to park your car for an Block the rear wheels. Cover the car with a "breathable"
extended period (more than 1 car cover, one made from a porous
month), there are several things you If the car is to be stored for a material such as cotton.
should do to prepare it for storage. longer period, it should be Nonporous materials, such as
Proper preparation helps prevent supported on jackstands so the plastic sheeting, trap moisture
deterioration and makes it easier to tires are off the ground. which can damage the paint.
get your car back on the road. It is
best to store your car indoors if at all Leave one window open slightly (if If possible, run the engine for a
possible. the car is being stored indoors). while periodically (preferably once
a month).
Fill the fuel tank. Disconnect the battery.
If you store your car for 12 months
Change the engine oil and filter Support the front wiper blade or longer, have your Honda dealer
(see page 141). arms with a folded towel or rag so perform the inspections called for in
they do not touch the windshield. the 24 months/48,000 km (30,000
Wash and dry the exterior miles) maintenance schedule
completely. Apply a silicone spray lubricant to (Normal Conditions) as soon as you
all door and trunk seals. Also, take it out of storage (see page 132).
Clean the interior. Make sure the apply wax to the painted surfaces The replacements called for in the
carpeting, floor mats, etc. are that mate with the door and trunk maintenance schedule are not
completely dry. seals. needed unless the car has actually
reached that time or mileage.
Leave the parking brake off. Put
the transmission in Reverse
(manual) or Park (automatic).
Maintenance

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▼
Main Menu
Appearance Care
Regular cleaning and polishing of

your Honda helps to keep it "new"
looking. This section gives you hints
on how to clean and preserve your
car's appearance: the paint, bright-
work, wheels and interior. Also
included are several things you can
do to help prevent corrosion.
Exterior Care.................................. 182

Washing...................................... 182
Power Antenna Cleaning.......... 182
Waxing........................................ 183
Aluminum Wheels..................... 183
Paint Touch-up........................... 184
Interior Care................................... 185
Carpeting.................................... 185
Fabric.......................................... 185
Vinyl............................................ 185
Leather........................................ 185
Seat Belts.................................... 185
Windows..................................... 186
Air Fresheners........................... 186
Corrosion Protection..................... 186
Body Repairs.................................. 187
Appearance Care

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Exterior Care
Washing Wash the car, using the water and Power Antenna Cleaning
Frequent washing helps preserve detergent solution and a soft- Twice a year, clean the antenna mast
your car's beauty. Dirt and grit can bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth. with a dry cloth and mild detergent.
scratch the paint, while tree sap and Start at the top and work your way Scrub the antenna in upward strokes
bird droppings can permanently ruin down. Rinse frequently. to avoid bending it. Rinse with water.
the finish.
Check the body for road tar, tree Make sure the antenna works
Wash your car in a shady area, not in sap, etc. Remove these stains with smoothly by turning the stereo off
direct sunlight. If the car is parked in tar remover or turpentine. Rinse it and on several times with the
the sun, move it into the shade and off immediately so it does not ignition switch ON (II). The antenna
let the exterior cool down before you harm the finish. Remember to re- does not need lubricating.
start. wax these areas, even if the rest of
the car does not need waxing. If you use a "drive-through" car wash,
NOTICE make sure you turn the stereo off
When you have washed and rinsed first. This retracts the antenna to
Chemical solvents and strong cleaners the whole exterior, dry it with a prevent damage from the car wash
can damage the paint, metal, and chamois or soft towel. Letting it brushes.
plastic on your car. air-dry will cause dulling and water
spots.
Rinse the car thoroughly with cool
water to remove loose dirt. As you dry the car, inspect it for
chips and scratches that could allow
Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix corrosion to start. Repair them with
in a mild detergent, such as touch-up paint (see page 184).
dishwashing liquid or a product
made especially for car washing.
Appearance Care

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▼
Exterior Care
Waxing Polishes — Polishes and cleaner/ Aluminum Wheels

Always wash and dry the whole car waxes can restore the shine to paint Except S model
before waxing it. You should wax that has oxidized and lost some of its Clean your Honda's aluminum alloy
your car, including the metal trim, shine. They normally contain mild wheels as you do the rest of the
whenever water sits on the surface abrasives and solvents that remove exterior. Wash them with the same
in large patches. It should form into the top layer of the finish. You solution, and rinse them thoroughly.
beads or droplets after waxing. should use a polish on your Honda if
the finish does not have its original The wheels have a protective clear-
You should use a quality liquid or shine after using a wax. coat that keeps the aluminum from
paste wax. Apply it according to the corroding and tarnishing. Using
instructions on the container. In Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with harsh chemicals, including some
general, there are two types of removers also takes off the wax. commercial wheel cleaners, or stiff
products: Remember to re-wax those areas, brushes can damage this clear-coat.
even if the rest of the car does not Only use a mild detergent and soft
Waxes — A wax coats the finish and need waxing. brush or sponge to clean the wheels.
protects it from damage by exposure
to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You
should use a wax on your Honda
when it is new.
Appearance Care

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▼
Exterior Care
Paint Touch-up Examine the chip or scratch closely

Your dealer has touch-up paint to before repairing it. If it does not go
match your car's color. The color down to bare metal, clean it with
code is printed on a sticker on the soap and water and apply the touch-
driver's doorjamb. Take this code to up paint. If it does go to the metal,
your dealer so you are sure to get apply a coat of primer first. After this
the correct color. dries, apply the touch-up paint. Build
up the paint in the damaged area to
the level of the surrounding paint.
Several thin coats of paint are better
than one thick coat.
TOUCH-UP
PAINT
Inspect your car for chipped or

scratched paint every time you wash
it. Repair it as soon as possible to
prevent corrosion. Use the touch-up
paint on small chips and scratches.
More extensive damage should be
repaired by a professional.
Appearance Care

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▼
Interior Care
Carpeting Vinyl Seat Belts

Vacuum the carpeting frequently to Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum
remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft
the carpet wear out faster. cloth dampened in a solution of mild
Periodically shampoo the carpet to soap and water. Use the same
keep it looking new. Use one of the solution with a soft-bristle brush on
foam-type carpet cleaners on the more difficult spots. You can also use
market. Follow the instructions that commercially-available spray or
come with the cleaner, applying it foam-type vinyl cleaners.
with a sponge or soft brush. Keep
the carpeting as dry as possible by Leather
not adding water to the foam. On VTEC model in the U.S., and SR-V
model in Canada
METAL LOOP
Fabric Vacuum dirt and dust from the
Vacuum dirt and dust out of the leather frequently. Pay particular If your seat belts get dirty, you can
material frequently. For general attention to the pleats and seams. use a soft brush with a mixture of
cleaning, use a solution of mild soap Clean the leather with a soft cloth mild soap and warm water to clean
and lukewarm water, letting it air dry. dampened with clear water, then them. Do not use bleach, dye, or
To clean off stubborn spots, use a buff it with a clean, dry cloth. If cleaning solvents. They can weaken
commercially-available fabric cleaner. further cleaning is needed, use a the belt material. Let the belts air-
Test it on a hidden area of the fabric soap specifically for leather, such as dry before you use the car.
first, to make sure it does not bleach saddle soap. Apply this soap with a
or stain the fabric. Follow the damp, soft cloth. Wipe down and
instructions that come with the buff as described above.
cleaner.
CONTINUED
Appearance Care

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▼
Interior Care, Corrosion Protection
Dirt build-up in the metal loops of NOTICE Corrosion Protection

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

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

coatings on the underside of your
car inspected and repaired
periodically.
Appearance Care

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▼
Main Menu
Taking Care of the Unexpected
This section covers the more- Compact Spare Tire....................... 190

common problems that motorists Changing a Flat Tire..................... 191
experience with their cars. It gives If Your Engine Won't Start........... 196
you information about how to safely Nothing Happens....................... 196
evaluate the problem and what to do The Starter Operates
to correct it. If the problem has Normally................................. 197
stranded you on the side of the road, Jump Starting................................. 197
you may be able to get going again. If Your Engine Overheats............. 199
If not, you will also find instructions Low Oil Pressure........................... 201
on getting your car towed. Charging System Indication..........202
Malfunction Indicator Lamp/
Check Engine Light.................. 203
Closing the Sunroof....................... 204
Fuses............................................... 205
Checking and Replacing........... 206
Towing............................................ 210

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▼
Compact Spare Tire
Your car has a compact spare tire Follow these precautions whenever INDICATOR
that takes up less space. Use this you are using the compact spare tire: LOCATION
spare tire as a temporary replace- MARK
ment only. Get your regular tire Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h)
repaired or replaced and put back on under any circumstances.
your car as soon as you can.
This tire gives a harsher ride and
Check the inflation pressure of the less traction on some road sur-
compact spare tire every time you faces than the regular tire. Use
check the other tires. It should be greater caution while driving on
inflated to: this tire. TREAD WEAR
INDICATOR
415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm2 , 60 psi) BAR
Do not mount snow chains on the
compact spare. The compact spare tire has a shorter
tread life than a regular tire. Replace
The wheel of the compact spare it when you can see the tread wear
tire is designed especially to fit indicator bars. The replacement
your car. Do not use your spare should be the same size and design
tire on another car unless it is the tire, mounted on the same wheel.
same make and model. The compact spare tire is not
designed to be mounted on a regular
wheel, and the compact wheel is not
designed for mounting a regular tire.

▲
▼
Changing a Flat Tire
If you have a flat tire while driving, TRUNK FLOOR JACK 5. Unscrew the wing bolt and take
stop in a safe place to change it. the spare tire out of the trunk.
Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder
of a busy road is dangerous. Drive
slowly along the shoulder until you
get to an exit or an area to stop that
is far away from the traffic lanes.
The car can easily roll off the

jack, seriously injuring anyone SPARE TIRE TOOL KIT
underneath.
2. Put the transmission in Park
Follow the directions for (automatic) or Reverse (manual).
changing a tire exactly, and Set the parking brake.
never get under the car when it
is supported only by the jack. 3. Open the trunk. Raise the trunk
floor by lifting up on the back edge.
1. Park the car on firm, level ground 4. Take the tool kit out of the trunk.
away from traffic. Turn on the
hazard warning lights and turn the
ignition to LOCK (0).
CONTINUED

▲
▼
HANDLE
COVER JACK
6. The jack is behind a cover in the 7. Turn the jack's end bracket 8. Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2
right fender. Remove the cover by counterclockwise to loosen it, then turn with the wheel wrench.
turning the handle clockwise, then remove the jack.
pulling on the cover.

▲
▼
JACKING WHEEL EXTENSION

POINT WRENCH
9. Locate the jacking point nearest 10. Use the extension and wheel 11. Remove the wheel nuts and flat
the tire you need to change. It is wrench as shown to raise the car tire. Temporarily place the flat tire
pointed to by an arrow molded into until the flat tire is off the ground. on the ground with the outside
the underside of the body. Place surface of the wheel facing up.
the jack under the jacking point. The outside surface contacting the
Turn the end bracket clockwise ground could damage the wheel
until the top of the jack contacts surface.
the jacking point. Make sure the
jacking point tab is resting on the
jack notch.
CONTINUED

▲
▼
BRAKE HUB
12. Before mounting the spare tire, 13. Put on the spare tire. Put the 14. Lower the car to the ground and
wipe any dirt off the mounting wheel nuts back on finger-tight, remove the jack.
surface of the wheel and hub with then tighten them in a crisscross
a cloth. pattern with the wheel wrench
until the wheel is firmly against
the hub. Do not try to tighten
them fully.

▲
▼
WING BOLT 19. Store the jack in its holder with

the end bracket facing to the rear.
SPACER Turn the jack's end bracket to lock
CONE
it in place. Replace the cover.
Store the tool kit.
20. Store the wheel cover or center

cap in the trunk. Make sure it does
not get scratched or damaged.
15. Tighten the wheel nuts securely in 16. Remove the wheel cover or center
the same crisscross pattern. Have cap.
the wheel nut torque checked at Place the flat tire face down in the
the nearest automotive service trunk well.
facility.
Tighten the wheel nuts to: 17. Remove the spacer cone from the
110 N.m (11 kg-m, 80 Ib-ft) wing bolt, turn it over, and put it
back on the bolt.
18. Secure the flat tire by screwing

the wing bolt back into its hole.

▲
▼
If Your Engine Won't Start
Diagnosing why your engine won't Nothing Happens or the Starter Turn the ignition switch to START
start falls into two areas, depending Motor Operates Very Slowly (III). If the headlights do not dim,
on what you hear when you turn the When you turn the ignition switch to check the condition of the fuses. If
key to START (III): START (III), you do not hear the the fuses are OK, there is proba-
normal noise of the engine trying to bly something wrong with the
You hear nothing, or almost start. You may hear a clicking sound electrical circuit for the ignition
nothing. The engine's starter or series of clicks, or nothing at all. switch or starter motor. You will
motor does not operate at all, or Check these things: need a qualified technician to
operates very slowly. determine the problem. (See
Check the transmission interlock. Towing on page 210.)
You can hear the starter motor If you have a manual transmission,
operating normally, but the engine the clutch pedal must be pushed If the headlights dim noticeably or
does not start up and run. all the way to the floor or the go out when you try to start the
starter will not operate. With an engine, either the battery is dis-
automatic transmission, it must be charged or the connections are
in Park or Neutral. corroded. Check the condition of
the battery and terminal connec-
Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). tions (see page 158). You can
Turn on the headlights and check then try jump starting the car from
their brightness. If the headlights a booster battery (see page 197).
are very dim or don't light at all,
the battery is discharged. See
Jump Starting on page 197.

▲
▼
If Your Engine Won't Start, Jump Starting
The Starter Operates Normally Jump Starting To jump start your car:
In this case, the starter motor If your car's battery has run down,
sounds normal when you turn the you may be able to start the engine 1. Open the hood and check the
ignition switch to START (III), but by using a booster battery. Although physical condition of the battery
the engine does not run. this seems like a simple procedure, (see page 157). In very cold
there are several precautions you weather, check the condition of
Are you using the proper starting should take. Follow the directions the electrolyte. If it seems slushy
procedure? Refer to Starting the closely. or like ice, do not try jump starting
Engine on page 109. until it thaws.
Do you have fuel? Turn the NOTICE

ignition switch to ON (II) for a A battery can explode if you do
minute and watch the fuel gauge. not follow the correct procedure, If a battery sits in extreme cold, the
The low fuel level warning light seriously injuring anyone electrolyte inside can freeze.
may not be working, so you were nearby. Attempting to jump start with a frozen
not reminded to fill the tank. battery can cause it to rupture or
Keep all sparks, open flames, explode.
There may be an electrical and smoking materials away
problem, such as no power to the from the battery. 2. Turn off all the electrical acces-
fuel pump. Check all the fuses sories: heater, A/C, stereo system,
(see page 205). lights, etc.
You cannot start a Honda with an Put the transmission in Neutral or
If you find nothing wrong, you will automatic transmission by pushing Park and set the parking brake.
need a qualified technician to find or pulling it.
the problem. See Towing on page
210. CONTINUED

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

▲
▼
If Your Engine Overheats
Your car's temperature gauge should Your car can overheat for several 2. If you see steam and/or spray
register in the midrange under most reasons, such as lack of coolant or a coming from under the hood, turn
conditions. It may register higher if mechanical problem. The only off the engine.
you are driving up a long steep hill indication may be the temperature
on a very hot day. If it illuminates the gauge illuminating the red marker. 3. If you do not see steam or spray,
red marker at the right end of the Or you may see steam or spray leave the engine running and
gauge, you should determine the coming from under the hood. In watch the temperature gauge. If
reason. either case, you should take the high heat is due to overloading
immediate action. (climbing a long, steep hill on a
NOTICE hot day with the A/C running, for
example), the engine should start
Driving with the temperature gauge's to cool down almost immediately.
red marker lit can cause serious Steam and spray from an If it does, wait until the tempera-
damage to your engine. overheated engine can ture gauge comes down to the mid-
seriously scald you. point then continue driving.
Do not open the hood if steam 4. If the temperature gauge

is coming out. continues to display the red
marker, turn off the engine.
1. Safely pull to the side of the road.
Put the transmission in neutral or 5. Wait until you see no more signs
park and set the parking brake. of steam or spray, then open the
Turn off the heating and cooling hood.
system and all other accessories.
Turn on the hazard warning
indicators. CONTINUED

▲
▼
If Your Engine Overheats
6. Look for any obvious coolant leaks, 10. Start the engine and set the
such as a split radiator hose. temperature control lever to
Everything is still extremely hot, Removing the radiator cap maximum. Add coolant to the
so use caution. 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 Towing on seriously scalding you. proper coolant mixture available,
page 210). you can add plain water.
Always let the engine and Remember to have the cooling
7. 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.
143). If the level is below the
MIN mark, add coolant to half-way 9. Using gloves or a large heavy 11. Put the radiator cap back on
between the MIN and MAX marks. cloth, turn the radiator cap tightly. Run the engine and watch
counterclockwise, without pushing the temperature gauge. If it
8. If there was no coolant in the down, to the first stop. This illuminates the red marker again,
reserve tank, you may also have to releases any remaining pressure in the engine needs repair. (See
add coolant to the radiator. Let the the cooling system. After the Towing on page 210.)
engine cool down until the pressure releases, push down on
temperature gauge registers the cap and turn it until it comes 12. If the temperature stays normal,
below the midpoint, or lower, off. check the coolant level in the
before checking the radiator. radiator reserve tank. If it has
gone down, add coolant to the
MAX mark. Put the cap back on
tightly.

▲
▼
Low Oil Pressure
1. Safely pull off the road and shut 4. Start the engine and watch the oil
off the engine. pressure light. If the light does not
go out within ten seconds, turn off
2. Let the car sit for a minute. Open the engine. There is a mechanical
the hood and check the oil level problem that needs to be repaired
(see page 138). Although oil level before you can continue driving.
and oil pressure are not directly (See Towing on page 210.)
connected, an engine that is very
low on oil can lose pressure during
cornering and other driving
maneuvers.
LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR
3. If necessary, add oil to bring the
The low oil pressure indicator should level back to the full mark on the
never come on when the engine is dipstick (see page 138).
running. If this light comes on with
the engine running, take immediate
action.
NOTICE
Running the engine with low oil
pressure can cause serious mechanical
damage almost immediately. Turn off
the engine as soon as you can safely get
the car stopped.

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Charging System Indication
Immediately turn off all electrical By eliminating as much of the

accessories: radio, heater, A/C, rear electrical load as possible, you can
defogger, cruise control, etc. Try not drive several miles before the
to use other electrically-operated battery is too discharged to keep the
controls such as the power windows. engine running. Drive to a service
Keep the engine running and take station or garage where you can get
extra care not to stall it. Starting the technical assistance.
engine will discharge the battery
rapidly.
CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR
The charging system indicator

should go out after the engine starts.
If it comes on brightly with the
engine running, the alternator is no
longer charging the battery.

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▼
Malfunction Indicator Lamp/Check Engine Light
If this indicator light comes on, NOTICE

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ safely pull off the road and turn off
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT*
the engine. Restart the engine and If you keep driving with the malfunc-
watch the indicator light. If it stays tion indicator lamp/check engine light
on, have your car checked by the on, you can damage your car's
dealer as soon as possible. Drive emission controls and engine. Those
moderately until the dealer has repairs may not be covered by your
inspected the problem. Avoid full- car's warranties.
throttle acceleration and driving at
high speed.
* U.S. indicator shown You should also have the dealer

inspect your car if the indicator light
If this indicator comes on while comes on frequently, even though it
driving, there is a problem with your goes off when you follow the above
engine or its emission control procedure.
systems. Even though you may feel
no difference in your car's per-
formance, it can reduce your fuel
economy and cause your car to put
out excessive emissions. Continued
operation may cause serious engine
damage.

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Closing the Sunroof
If the electric motor will not close

SOCKET
the sunroof, do the following:
1. Check the fuse for the sunroof

motor (see page 206). If the fuse
is blown, replace it with one of the
same or lower rating.
2. Try closing the sunroof. If the new

fuse blows immediately or the
sunroof motor still does not
operate, you can close the sunroof ROUND PLUG
manually.
4. Pry off the round plug in the 5. Insert the sunroof wrench into the
3. Get the tool kit out of the trunk. center of the headliner. socket behind this plug. Turn the
wrench until the sunroof is fully
closed.
6. Remove the wrench. Replace the

round plug.

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Fuses
All the electrical circuits in your car UNDERHOOD TAB INTERIOR

have fuses to protect them from a
short circuit or overload. These
fuses are located in two fuse boxes.
KNOB
The underhood fuse box is located in The interior fuse box is underneath
the engine compartment next to the the dashboard on the driver's side.
battery. To open, push the tab as To open, turn the knob as shown.
shown.

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Fuses
Checking and Replacing Fuses

If something electrical in your car
stops working, the first thing you FUSE PULLER
should check for is a blown fuse.
Determine from the chart on pages
208 and 209, or the diagram on the
fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses
control that component. Check those
fuses first, but check all the fuses
before deciding that is not the cause.
Replace any blown fuses and check BLOWN
the component's operation.
1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK 3. Check each of the large fuses in 4. Check the smaller fuses in the
(0). Make sure the headlights and the underhood fuse box by looking underhood fuse box and all the
all other accessories are off. through the top at the wire inside. fuses in the interior fuse box by
Removing these fuses requires a pulling out each fuse with the fuse
2. Remove the cover from the fuse Phillips-head screwdriver. puller provided in the interior fuse
box. box.

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▼
Fuses
If you cannot drive the car without NOTICE

BLOWN fixing the problem, and you do not
have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the Replacing a fuse with one that has a
same rating or a lower rating from higher rating greatly increases the
one of the other circuits. Make sure chances of damaging the electrical
you can do without that circuit system. If you do not have a replace-
temporarily (such as the cigarette ment fuse with the proper rating for the
lighter or radio). circuit, install one with a lower rating.
If you replace the blown fuse with a 6. If the replacement fuse of the
spare fuse that has a lower rating, it same rating blows in a short time,
might blow out again. This does not there is probably a serious
indicate anything wrong. Replace the electrical problem in your car.
5. Look for a burned wire inside the fuse with one of the correct rating as Leave the blown fuse in that
fuse. If it is burned out, replace it soon as you can. circuit and have your car checked
with one of the spare fuses of the by a qualified technician.
same rating or lower.
CONTINUED

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▼
Fuses
INTERIOR FUSE BOX
* : On Canadian cars

▲
▼
Fuses
UNDERHOOD FUSE BOX

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

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Main Menu
Technical Information
The diagrams in this section give Identification Numbers................. 212 Emission Controls......................... 221
you the dimensions and capacities of Specifications................................. 214 The Clean Air Act...................... 221
your Honda, and the locations of the Anti-lock Brake System................ 216 Crankcase Emission Control
identification numbers. The expla- Four Wheel Steering..................... 217 System..................................... 221
nations of several electronic and Tire Information .............................218 Evaporative Emission Control
mechanical systems on your Honda Tire Size Designation.................218 System..................................... 221
are for the more technically-oriented Wheel Size Designation.............218 Exhaust Emission Controls...... 222
owner. Tire Speed Ratings.....................218 PGM-FI System..................... 222
Tire Pressure Adjustment Ignition Timing Control
For High Speed Driving.........219 System................................. 222
DOT Tire Quality Grading........219 Exhaust Gas Recirculation
Treadwear...............................219 (EGR) System.................... 222
Traction ...................................220 Three Way Catalytic
Temperature ...........................220 Converter............................ 222
Replacement Parts..................... 222
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 223

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Identification Numbers
Your car has several identifying

numbers located in various places.
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
The Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) is the 17-digit number your
Honda dealer uses to register your
car for warranty purposes. It is also
necessary for licensing and insuring
your car. The easiest place to find
the VIN is on a plate fastened to the
top of the dashboard. You can see it
by looking through the windshield
on the driver's side. It is also on the
Certification label attached to the
driver's doorjamb, 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 MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER
the engine block.
The Transmission Number is on a

label on top of the transmission.
ENGINE NUMBER

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▼
Specifications
*1: Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the
engine.
Reserve tank capacity:
page 157 0.6 (0.16 US gal , 0.13 Imp gal)
* 32 :: US: S, Canada: S
* 1 : US: S, Canada: S * US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS
* 2 : US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS * 45 :: US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V
* 3 : US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V * Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

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▼
Specifications
page 208
page 209
* 1 : Except high-mount brake light installed in rear spoiler.

* 2 : US: VTEC, Canada: SR 4WS, SR-V
*1:S
* 2 : Except S Technical Information

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▼
Anti-lock Brake System
The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Each wheel has a wheel speed the solenoid. This builds hydraulic
is standard equipment on all models sensor assembly. As the wheel pressure on the modulator valve.
except the S model. rotates, the sensor sends electrical The pressure increases in the
pulses to the ABS control unit. The hydraulic line to the wheel.
The ABS works by measuring how pulse frequency varies with the
fast the wheels are turning during wheel speed. For the system to react quickly, the
braking and comparing their speed. modulator/solenoid unit must have
If any wheel is rotating much slower The electrical output of the ABS brake fluid under high pressure.
than the others (on the verge of control unit is connected to the This is supplied by an accumulator
locking up and skidding), the system modulator/solenoid unit. During that is pressurized by an electric
reduces hydraulic pressure to that braking, the ABS control unit pump. A pressure-sensing switch on
wheel's brake caliper. When that monitors the pulse frequencies from the accumulator controls this pump.
wheel's speed matches the other the four wheels. When the control
wheels, the system applies normal unit detects a wheel locking up, it The control unit also contains error
hydraulic pressure. This can take energizes the appropriate solenoid in detection circuitry. It monitors the
place several times per second at the modulator/solenoid unit. There operation of the wheel sensors,
each wheel. You feel the ABS are three solenoids: one for each solenoids, pump, and electronics. If
working as rapid pulsations in the front wheel, and one for the rear the control unit detects any faults, it
brake pedal. wheels. The energized solenoid shuts off power to the pump motor
reduces hydraulic pressure to one and solenoids. The light on the
side of a modulator valve. This, in instrument panel comes on. The
turn, reduces hydraulic pressure in brakes then work like a conventional
the brake line going to the affected system without anti-lock capabilities.
wheel. When that wheel speeds up
because of the reduced braking
effort, the control unit de-energizes

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Four Wheel Steering
The SR 4WS model in Canada is The 4WS electronic control unit increases. This improves response in
equipped with an electronic Four drives an electric motor built into the lane-changing maneuvers.
Wheel Steering system. rear steering box. Sensors for rear
wheel angle and speed provide As the driver continues to turn the
As inputs, the 4WS system uses a feedback. The electronic control unit steering wheel, the rear wheels are
vehicle speed sensor and a sensor to uses this feedback to compare the steered back to the straight-ahead
measure how far the front wheels actual rear wheel angle to the position and then to countersteer
are turned. desired angle. mode. As with same steer, the angle
of countersteer varies with vehicle
The electronic control unit for the When the driver turns the front speed; increasing and then
4WS system uses these inputs to wheels with the car traveling less decreasing as the speed rises. This
determine which direction to steer than 18 mph (30 km/h), the rear gives improved handling in low,
the rear wheels, and at what angle. wheels are countersteered. The medium, and high speed curves.
Depending on vehicle speed and the angle of countersteer increases as
angle of the front wheels, the rear the angle of the front wheels in- The 4WS system's electronic control
wheels will be "countersteered" creases, to a maximum countersteer unit monitors the sensors whenever
(steered in the opposite direction of angle of six degrees. This improves the ignition is ON. If it detects a
the front wheels) or "same-steered" response when parallel parking or problem anywhere in the system, it
(steered in the same direction as the making sharp turns. lights the 4WS indicator on the
front wheels). instrument panel and turns the
Above 18 mph (30 km/h), the rear system off. With the system off, the
wheels are same-steered as the rear wheels remain pointed straight
driver begins to turn the steering ahead. Your car will then drive like a
wheel. The rear wheel angle for any conventional car without 4WS.
given steering wheel angle is not
fixed; it increases as vehicle speed

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▼
Tire Information
Tire Size Designation H — Speed Rating Symbol. See the Tire Speed Ratings
A tire's sidewall is marked with a tire speed rating chart in this section for The chart below shows many of the
size designation. You will need this additional information. different speed ratings currently
information when selecting being used for passenger car tires.
replacement tires for your car. The Wheel Size Designation The speed rating symbol is part of
following explains what the letters Wheels are also marked with the tire size designation on the
and numbers in the tire size important information that you need sidewall of the tire. This symbol
designation mean. if you ever have to replace one. The corresponds to that tire's designed
following explains what the letters maximum safe operating speed.
(Example tire size designation) and numbers in the wheel size
185/70R14 87H designation mean.
185 — Tire width in millimeters. (Example wheel size designation)

14 x 5-1/2 JJ
70 — Aspect ratio. The tire's section
height as a percentage of its width. 14 — Rim diameter in inches.
R — Tire construction code (Radial). 5-1/2 — Rim width in inches.
14 — Rim diameter in inches. JJ — Rim contour designation.
87 — Load Index, a numerical code

associated with the maximum load
the tire can carry.

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▼
Tire Information
Tire Pressure Adjustment For Be sure to readjust the pressure for Treadwear
High Speed Driving normal driving speeds. You should The treadwear grade is a compara-
Honda strongly recommends that wait until the tires are cold before tive rating based on the wear rate of
you not drive faster than posted adjusting the tire pressure (see page the tire when tested under controlled
speed limits and conditions allow. If 164). conditions on a specified government
you decide it is safe to drive at high test course. For example, a tire
speeds, be sure to adjust the cold tire DOT Tire Quality Grading graded 150 would wear one and one
pressures as shown below. If you do (U.S. Cars) half (1-1/2) times as well on the
not adjust the tire pressure, The tires on your car meet all U.S. government course as a tire graded
excessive heat can build up and Federal Safety Requirements. All 100. The relative performance of
cause sudden tire failure. tires are also graded for treadwear, tires depends upon the actual condi-
traction, and temperature perform- tions of their use, however, and may
(S) ance according to Department of depart significantly from the norm
Transportation (DOT) standards. due to variations in driving habits,
The following explains these service practices and differences in
gradings. road characteristics and climate.
(Except S)
CONTINUED

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▼
Tire Information
Traction Temperature Warning: The temperature grade for

The traction grades, from highest to The temperature grades are A (the this tire is established for a tire that
lowest, are A, B, and C, and they highest), B, and C, representing the is properly inflated and not over-
represent the tire's ability to stop on tire's resistance to the generation of loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-
wet pavement as measured under heat and its ability to dissipate heat tion, or excessive loading either
controlled conditions on specified when tested under controlled separately or in combination, can
government test surfaces of asphalt conditions on a specified indoor cause heat build-up and possible tire
and concrete. A tire marked C may laboratory test wheel. Sustained high failure.
have poor traction performance. temperature can cause the material
of the tire to degenerate and reduce
Warning: The traction grade as- tire life, and excessive temperature
signed to this tire is based on brak- can lead to sudden tire failure. The
ing (straight ahead) traction tests grade C corresponds to a level of
and does not include cornering performance which all passenger car
(turning) traction. 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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Emission Controls
The burning of gasoline in your car's The Clean Air Act Crankcase Emission Control
engine produces several byproducts. The United States Clean Air Act* System
Some of these are carbon monoxide sets standards for automobile Your car has a Positive Crankcase
(CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and emissions. It also requires that Ventilation System. This keeps
hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline automobile manufacturers explain to gasses that build up in the engine's
evaporating from the tank also owners how their emission controls crankcase from going into the
produces hydrocarbons. Controlling work and what to do to maintain atmosphere. The Positive Crankcase
the production of NOx, CO, and HC them. This section summarizes how Ventilation valve routes them from
is important to the environment. the emission controls work. the crankcase back to the intake
Under certain conditions of sunlight Scheduled maintenance is on page manifold. They are then drawn into
and climate, NOx and HC react to 132. the engine and burned.
form photochemical "smog." Carbon
monoxide does not contribute to * In Canada, Honda vehicles comply Evaporative Emission Control
smog creation, but it is a poisonous with the Canadian Motor Vehicle System
gas. Safety Standards (CMVSS) for As gasoline evaporates in the fuel
Emissions valid at the time they are tank, an evaporative emission control
manufactured. canister filled with charcoal adsorbs
the vapor. It is stored in this canister
while the engine is off. After the
engine is started and warmed up, the
vapor is drawn into the engine and
burned during driving.

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▼
Emission Controls
Exhaust Emission Controls Ignition Tuning Control System Replacement Parts

The exhaust emission controls This system constantly adjusts the The emission control systems are
include four systems: PGM-FI, ignition timing, reducing the amount designed and certified to work to-
Ignition Timing Control, Exhaust of HC, CO and NOx produced. gether in reducing emissions to
Gas Recirculation and Three Way levels that comply with the Clean Air
Catalytic Converter. These four Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Act. To make sure the emissions
systems work together to control the System remain low, you should use only new
engine's combustion and minimize The Exhaust Gas Recirculation genuine Honda replacement parts or
the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that (EGR) system takes some of the their equivalent for repairs. Using
comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust exhaust gas and routes it back into lower quality parts may increase the
emission control systems are the intake manifold. Adding exhaust emissions from your car.
separate from the crankcase and gas to the air/fuel mixture reduces
evaporative emission control the amount of NOx produced when The emissions control systems are
systems. the fuel is burned. covered by warranties separate from
the rest of your car. Read your
PGM-FI System Three Way Catalytic Converter warranty manual for more informa-
The PGM-FI System uses sequential The three way catalytic converter is tion.
multiport fuel injection. in the exhaust system. Through
It has three subsystems: Air Intake, chemical reactions, it converts HC,
Engine Control, and Fuel Control. CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaust
The Engine Control Module (ECM) to carbon dioxide (CO2), dinitrogen
uses various sensors to determine (N 2 ), and water vapor.
how much air is going into the
engine. It then controls how much
fuel to inject under all operating
conditions.

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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 car 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 car away from high grass, formance. Follow these guidelines to
dry leaves, or other flammables. protect your car's three way 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.

▲
▼
Main Menu
Warranty and Customer Relations
Warranty Coverages..................... 226

Customer Relations
Information................................. 227
U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 228
Canada Zone Office Map.............. 229
Authorized Manuals...................... 231

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▼
Warranty Coverages
U.S. Cars Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat Replacement Battery Limited
Your new Honda is covered by these belt that fails to function properly is Warranty — provides prorated
warranties: covered for the useful life of the car. coverage for a replacement battery
purchased from a Honda dealer.
New Car Limited Warranty — covers Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
your new car, except for the battery, — all exterior body panels are Replacement Muffler Lifetime
emissions control systems and covered for rust-through from the Limited Warranty — provides
accessories, against defects in inside for the specified time period coverage for as long as the pur-
materials and workmanship. with no mileage limit. chaser of the muffler owns the car.
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 1995 Honda Warranties booklet that
warranties cover your car's and mileage limits depend on the came with your car for precise
emissions control systems. Time, type of accessory and other factors. information on warranty coverages.
mileage, and coverage are condi- Please read your warranty manual Your Honda's original tires are
tional. Please read the warranty for details. covered by their manufacturer. Tire
manual for exact information. warranty information is in a separate
Replacement Parts Limited booklet.
Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty — covers all Genuine
Warranty — this warranty gives up Honda replacement parts against Canada Cars
to 100% credit toward a replacement defects in materials and workman- Please refer to the 1995 Warranty
battery. ship. and Maintenance Guide that came
with your car.

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▼
Customer Relations Information
Honda dealership personnel are If you are dissatisfied with the When you call or write, please give
trained professionals. They should decision made by the dealership's us this information:
be able to answer all your questions. management, contact your Honda
If you encounter a problem that your Customer Relations Zone Office. Vehicle Identification Number
dealership does not solve to your Refer to the U.S. and Canadian Zone (see page 212)
satisfaction, please discuss it with Office maps on the following pages. Name and address of the dealer
the dealership's management. The who services your car
Service Manager or General Date of purchase
Manager can help. Almost all Mileage on your car
problems are solved in this way. Your name, address, and tele-
phone number
A detailed description of the
problem
Name of the dealer who sold the
car to you

▲
▼
U.S. Zone Office Map
Western Zone Mid-Atlantic Zone

P.O. Box 2260 902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200
700 Van Ness Avenue Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878
Torrance, California (301) 990-2020
90509-2260
(310) 781-4565 Southeastern Zone
1500 Morrison Parkway
Northwestern Zone Alpharetta, Georgia 30004
P.O. Box 20186 (770) 442-2045
12439 N.E. Airport Way
Portland, Oregon 97230 North Central Zone
(503) 256-0943 601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9
(also includes Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004
Alaska and Hawaii) (847) 870-5600
South Central Zone New England Zone

4529 Royal Lane 555 Old County Road
living, Texas 75063 Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096
(972) 929-5481 (860)623-3310
Central Zone See Zone 5 for: NYC Metro area
101 South Stanfield Road and Fairfield County, CT area
Troy, Ohio 45373
(937) 332-6250 West Central Zone
1600 South Abilene Street. Suite D
Northeastern Zone Aurora, Colorado 80012
P.O. Box 337 (303) 696-3935
Eastgate Industrial Park
115 Gaither Drive Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I.
Moorestown, New Jersey 08057 Bella International
(609) 235-5533 P.O. Box 190816
Includes: NYC Metro area and San Juan, PR 00919-0816
Fairfield County, CT area (787) 250-4318
The above addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot reach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer
for the current information.
Customer Relations

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▼
Canada Zone Office Map
Western Zone Quebec Zone

Honda Canada Inc. Honda Canada Inc.
13240 Worster Court 1750 rue Eiffel
Richmond, B.C. Boucherville, Quebec
V6V 2B8 J4B 7W1
(604) 278-7121 (514) 655-6161
Central Zone Atlantic Zone

Honda Canada Inc. Honda Canada Inc.
126 Milner Avenue 800 Windmill Road
Scarborough, Ontario Dartmouth, N.S.
MIS 3R2 B3B 1L1
(416) 299-3400 (902) 468-4416
Customer Relations

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▼
Authorized Manuals
Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners
(U.S. only) should contact thier authorized Honda dealer.
The following publications covering the operation and
servicing of your vehicle can be obtained from Helm
Incorporated, either by filling out the attached form or,
for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone number
on the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below,
contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit,
Michigan 48207 or call 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
Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.
61SS003
61SS003EL
61SS030
31SS0630

▲
▼
Authorized Manuals
Service Manual:
This manual covers maintenance and recommended
procedures for repair to engine and chassis components.
It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simple
enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under-
stand.
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:

This manual complements the Service Manual by
providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each
electrical circuit in your car.
Body Repair Manual:

This manual describes the procedures involved in the
replacement of damaged body parts.
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

▲
▼
Main Menu
Index
Airbag (SRS)...................................... 9 Shift Lock Release..................... 116

Air Cleaner..................................... 154
Accessories Air Conditioning............................... 74
Installation.................................. 105 Maintenance............................... 162
ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Usage............................................. 72 Battery
Position)........................................ 50 Air Outlets (Vents).......................... 72 Charging System Light............... 33
Adding Air Pressure, Tires........................ 164 Jump Starting............................. 197
Automatic Transmission Alcohol and Drugs........................... 24 Maintenance............................... 157
Fluid........................................ 149 Alcohol in Gasoline.......................... 98 Specifications............................. 215
Brake Fluid................................. 151 Antenna, Cleaning......................... 178 Before Driving................................. 97
Clutch Fluid................................ 153 Antifreeze....................................... 140 Belts, Seat........................................... 5
Engine Coolant........................... 144 Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Body Repair.................................... 187
Engine Oil................................... 138 Description................................. 216 Brakes
Manual Transmission Fluid..... 150 Indicator Light..................... 34, 119 Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 118
Power Steering Fluid................. 153 Operation.................................... 118 Break-in, New Linings................. 98
Windshield Washer Fluid......... 148 Anti-theft Steering Column Fluid............................................ 151
Additional Safety Information........ 16 Lock............................................... 50 Light, Burned-out...................... 174
Door Locks................................... 16 Appearance Care........................... 181 Parking.......................................... 63
Driving with Pets......................... 17 Ashtray.............................................. 66 System Indicator.......................... 33
Seat-back Position........................ 16 Audio System................................... 79 Wear Indicators......................... 117
Storing Cargo Safely................... 17 Automatic Speed Control................ 46 Brakes, ABS
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 140 Automatic Transmission............... 113 Description................................. 216
Adjustments Capacity, Fluid........................... 215 Operation.................................... 118
Mirrors.......................................... 61 Checking Fluid Level................ 149 System Indicator.................. 34, 119
Seats.............................................. 53 Shifting........................................ 113
Steering Wheel............................ 45 Shift Lever Positions................. 113 CONTINUED

▲
▼
Main Menu
Index
Braking System.............................. 117 Operation...................................... 87 Cleaner, Air.................................... 154

Break-in, New Car........................... 98 CAUTION, Explanation of............... ii Cleaning
Brightness Control, Certification Label......................... 212 Aluminum Wheels..................... 183
Instruments.................................. 43 Chains............................................. 168 Antenna....................................... 182
Brights, Headlights......................... 42 Change Oil Carpeting.................................... 185
Bulb Replacement How to......................................... 141 Exterior....................................... 182
Back-up Lights........................... 174 When to....................................... 132 Fabric.......................................... 185
Brake Lights............................... 174 Changing a Flat Tire..................... 191 Interior........................................ 185
Front Parking Lights................. 170 Changing Engine Coolant............. 146 Leather........................................ 185
Front Side Marker Lights......... 171 Charging System Indicator.... 33, 202 Seat Belts.................................... 185
Headlights.................................. 169 Check Engine Light................ 34, 203 Vinyl............................................ 185
High-mount Brake Light.......... 173 Checking Washing...................................... 182
License Plate Lights.................. 176 Automatic Transmission Waxing........................................ 183
Rear Side Marker Lights.......... 175 Fluid........................................ 149 Windows..................................... 186
Specifications............................. 215 Battery Condition...................... 157 CLEAN Light................................... 94
Turn Signal Lights..................... 172 Brake Fluid................................. 151 Clock, Setting the............................ 64
Bulbs, Halogen............................... 169 Clutch Fluid................................ 153 Clutch Fluid.................................... 153
Drive Belts.................................. 163 CO in the Exhaust......................... 221
Engine Coolant........................... 144 Cold Weather, Starting in............. 110
Engine Oil................................... 138 Compact Spare............................... 190
Cables, Jump Starting With.......... 198 Fuses........................................... 205 Consumer Information.................. 227
Capacities Chart............................. 214 Manual Transmission Fluid..... 150 Controls, Instruments and.............. 29
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 25 Power Steering Fluid................. 153 Coolant
Cargo, Loading............................... 106 Checklist, Before Driving............. 108 Adding......................................... 144
Cassette Player Child Safety...................................... 18 Checking..................................... 144
Care............................................... 94 Cigarette Lighter............................. 65 Proper Solution.......................... 144

▲
▼
Main Menu
Index
Temperature Gauge.................... 40 Disposal of Used Oil...................... 143 Emergency Brake............................ 63

Corrosion Protection..................... 186 Doors Emergency Flashers....................... 58
Crankcase Emission Control Locking and Unlocking............... 51 Emission Controls......................... 221
System......................................... 221 Power Door Locks....................... 51 Engine
Cruise Control Operation............... 46 DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 219 Belts............................................. 163
Customer Relations Office........... 227 Downshifting, 5-speed Manual Check Light.......................... 34, 203
Transmission.............................. 111 Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 40
Drive Belts...................................... 163 Malfunction Indicator
Driving............................................ 107 Lamp................................. 34, 203
DANGER, Explanation of................. ii Economy..................................... 104 Oil Pressure Indicator......... 33, 201
Dashboard........................................ 30 In Bad Weather.......................... 120 Oil, What Kind to Use............... 139
Daytime Running Lights................. 42 In Foreign Countries................... 99 Overheating................................ 199
Dead Battery, What to Do............ 197 Specifications............................. 214
Defects, Reporting Safety............... 26 Ethanol in Gasoline ......................... 99
Defogger, Rear Window................. 58 Evaporative Emission Controls.... 221
Defrosting the Windows................. 78 Economy, Fuel............................... 104 Exhaust Fumes................................ 25
DEXRON® II Automatic Emergencies on the Road............. 189 Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat
Transmission Fluid.................... 150 Battery, Jump Starting.............. 197 Belts by........................................... 8
Dimensions..................................... 214 Changing a Flat Tire................. 191 Exterior, Cleaning the................... 182
Dimming the Headlights................ 42 Charging System Indicator...... 202
Dipstick Check Engine Light.................. 203
Automatic Transmission........... 149 Checking the Fuses................... 206
Engine Oil................................... 138 Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 201 Fabric, Cleaning............................. 185
Directional Signals........................... 43 Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 203 Fan, Interior...................................... 74
Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 210 Manually Closing Sunroof........ 204
Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 117 Overheated Engine................... 199 CONTINUED

▲
▼
Main Menu
Index
Fan, Radiator.................................... 27 Four Wheel Steering (4WS) Gauges

Features, Comfort and Description................................. 217 Engine Coolant Temperature .... 40
Convenience................................. 71 Indicator Light............................. 35 Fuel................................................ 40
Filling the Fuel Tank..................... 100 Operation.................................... 119 Gearshift Lever Positions
Filters Front End, Towing by Automatic Transmission........... 113
Fuel.............................................. 155 Emergency Wrecker................. 210 5-speed Manual
Oil................................................ 141 Fuel.................................................... 98 Transmission.................... 111
First Gear, Shifting........................ 111 Fill Door and Cap....................... 100 Glass Cleaning............................... 186
5-speed Manual Transmission, Filter............................................ 155 Glove Box......................................... 64
Checking Fluid Level................ 150 Gauge............................................ 38
Shifting the................................. 111 Octane Requirement................... 98
Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 58 Oxygenated.................................. 98
Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 191 Tank, Filling the......................... 100 Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 169
Fluids Fuses, Checking the...................... 205 Hazard Warning Flashers............... 58
Automatic Transmission........... 149 Headlights
Brake........................................... 151 Daytime Running Lights............. 42
Clutch.......................................... 153 High Beam Indicator................... 36
Manual Transmission............... 150 Gas Mileage, Improving................ 104 High Beams, Turning on............ 42
Power Steering........................... 153 Gasohol............................................. 98 Low Beams, Turning on............. 42
Windshield Washer................... 148 Gasoline............................................ 98 Reminder Chime.......................... 42
FM Stereo Radio Filter............................................ 155 Replacing Halogen Bulbs......... 169
Reception...................................... 81 Gauge............................................ 40 Turning on.................................... 42
Folding Rear Seat............................ 57 Octane Requirement................... 98 Heating and Cooling........................ 72
Foreign Countries, Driving in........ 99 Tank, Filling the......................... 100 High Altitude, Starting at.............. 110
Four-way Flashers........................... 58 Gas Station Procedures................. 100 High-Low Beam Switch.................. 42
Hood, Opening the........................ 101

▲
▼
Main Menu
Index
Horn................................................... 49 Fuel Fill Door............................. 100

Hot Coolant, Warning about........ 144 Glove Box..................................... 64
Hydraulic Clutch............................ 153 Jacking up the Car......................... 193 Power Door.................................. 51
Hydroplaning.................................. 121 Jack, Tire........................................ 191 Trunk............................................ 52
Jump Starting................................. 197 Low Coolant Level......................... 144
Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 111
Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 33, 201
Identification Number, Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 214
Vehicle........................................ 212 Keys................................................... 49 Luggage.......................................... 106
If Your Car Has to be Towed....... 210
Ignition
Keys............................................... 49
Switch............................................ 50 Label, Certification........................ 212 Maintenance................................... 127
Timing Control System............. 222 Lane Change, Signaling.................. 43 Periodic Items............................ 136
Indicator Lights, Instrument Lap/Shoulder Belts........................... 6 Record................................. 134 - 135
Panel.............................................. 31 Leaking of Exhaust into Car.......... 25 Schedule.............................. 130 - 133
Infant Restraint................................ 19 Lighter, Cigarette............................ 65 Manual Transmission.................... 111
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 164 Lights Manual Transmission Fluid......... 150
Inside Mirror.................................... 61 Bulb Replacement..................... 169 Maximum Shift Speeds......... 112, 115
Inspection, Tire.............................. 165 Indicator........................................ 31 Meters, Gauges................................ 38
Instrument Panel............................. 30 Parking.......................................... 42 Methanol in Gasoline...................... 98
Instrument Panel Brightness......... 43 Turn Signal................................... 43 Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 61
Interior Cleaning............................ 185 Loading Cargo................................ 106
Interior Lights.................................. 68 LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 50
Introduction......................................... i Locks
Anti-theft Steering Column........ 50 CONTINUED

▲
▼
Main Menu
Index
Overheating, Engine..................... 199 Rear View Mirror............................. 61

Rear Window Defogger.................. 58
Neutral Gear Position.................... 114 Reclining the Seat Backs................ 54
New Vehicle Break-in ..................... 98 Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 111
Normal Shift Speeds...................... 111 Panel Brightness Control............... 43 Reminder Lights.............................. 31
NOTICE, Explanation of................... ii Park Gear Position......................... 114 Replacement Information
Numbers, Identification................ 212 Parking Brake.................................. 63 Air Cleaner................................. 154
Parking Lights.................................. 42 Coolant........................................ 146
Parking Over Things that Burn... 223 Engine Oil and Filter................. 141
PGM-FI System.............................. 222 Fuel Filter................................... 155
Occupant Protection System............ 4 Polishing and Waxing................... 183 Fuses........................................... 205
Octane Requirement, Gasoline...... 98 Power Light Bulbs................................. 169
Odometer.......................................... 38 Door Locks................................... 51 Schedule..................................... 130
Odometer, Trip................................ 38 Mirrors.......................................... 62 Spark Plugs................................. 155
Oil Steering....................................... 153 Tires............................................ 166
Change, How to......................... 141 Windows....................................... 59 Wiper Blades.............................. 160
Change, When to....................... 132 Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts............ 8 Replacing Seat Belts After a
Checking Engine....................... 138 Proper Seat Belt Usage..................... 6 Crash............................................... 8
Pressure Indicator....................... 33 Reserve Tank, Coolant.................. 144
Selecting Proper Viscosity Restraint, Child................................ 18
Chart....................................... 140 Reverse Gear Position................... 114
ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 50 Radiator Overheating.................... 199 Rotation, Tire................................. 166
Opening the Hood......................... 101 Radio/Cassette Sound System....... 79
Opening the Trunk.......................... 52 Rear End Towing........................... 210
Operation in Foreign Countries..... 99 Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 174
Outside Mirrors............................... 62 Rear Seat, Folding........................... 57 Safety Belts......................................... 5

▲
▼
Main Menu
Index
Safety Defects, Reporting............... 26 Shift Lever Position Storing Your Car............................ 179
Safety Labels, Location of.............. 27 Indicator............................... 37, 113 Sunroof.............................................. 60
Safety Messages................................ ii Side Marker Lights, Bulb Closing Manually....................... 204
Seat Belts............................................ 5 Replacement in.......................... 171 Operation...................................... 60
Advice for Pregnant Women........ 8 Signaling Turns................................ 43 Supplemental Restraint System
Child Seat Anchor Plate.............. 23 Snow Tires...................................... 168 Service Precautions..................... 15
Cleaning...................................... 185 Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 182 Servicing....................................... 14
Frayed or Torn............................... 8 Sound System................................... 79 SRS Indicator.......................... 14, 34
Maintenance................................... 8 Spare Tire System Components...................... 9
Reminder Light and Beeper....... 33 Inflating....................................... 190
Replacement................................... 8 Specifications............................. 215
System Components...................... 6 Spark Plugs, Replacing................. 155
Tether Attachment Points.......... 22 Specifications Charts..................... 214 Tachometer...................................... 38
Use During Pregnancy.................. 8 Speed Control................................... 46 Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 174
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7 Speedometer.................................... 38 Taking Care of the
Seats, Adjusting the......................... 53 SRS Indicator.............................. 14, 34 Unexpected................................ 189
Serial Number................................ 212 START (Ignition Key Position)..... 50 Tape Player....................................... 87
Service Intervals............................ 132 Starting the Engine........................ 109 Technical Descriptions
Service Manual.............................. 231 In Cold Weather at High Anti-lock Brake System............ 216
Service Station Procedures.......... 100 Altitude................................... 110 Emission Control Systems........ 221
Setting the Clock............................. 64 With a Dead Battery................. 197 Four Wheel Steering................. 217
Shifting Steam Coming from Engine......... 199 Three Way Catalytic
The Automatic Steering Wheel Converter................................ 223
Transmission.......................... 113 Adjustment................................... 45 Tire Information........................ 218
The 5-speed Manual Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 50
Transmission.......................... 111 Stereo Sound System...................... 79 CONTINUED

▲
▼
Main Menu
Index
Temperature Gauge........................ 40 Fluid Selection............................ 150 Vehicle Identification Number..... 212

Tether Attachment Points.............. 22 Identification Number............... 212 Vehicle Storage.............................. 179
Time, Setting the............................. 64 Shifting the Automatic.............. 113 Ventilation......................................... 75
Tire Chains..................................... 168 Shifting the Manual................... 111 VIN.................................................. 212
Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 191 Treadwear...................................... 219 Vinyl Cleaning................................ 185
Tires................................................ 163 Trip Meter........................................ 39 Viscosity, Oil................................... 140
Air Pressure............................... 164 Trunk................................................. 52
Checking Wear.......................... 165 Opening the.................................. 52
Compact Spare........................... 190 Open Monitor Light.................... 36
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 219 Turn Signals..................................... 43 Warning Beepers
Inflation....................................... 164 Key in Ignition.............................. 50
Inspection................................... 165 Seat Belts...................................... 33
Replacing.................................... 166 WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii
Rotating....................................... 166 Underside, Cleaning...................... 187 Warning Labels, Location of.......... 27
Snow............................................ 168 Unexpected, Taking Care Warranty Coverages..................... 226
Specifications............................. 215 of the........................................... 189 Washer, Windshield
Tools, Tire Changing.................... 191 Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 219 Checking the Fluid Level......... 148
Torn Seat Belts.................................. 8 Unleaded Gasoline........................... 98 Operation...................................... 44
Towing Upholstery Cleaning...................... 185 Washing.......................................... 182
A Trailer...................................... 122 Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 143 Waxing and Polishing................... 183
Emergency Wrecker................. 210 Wheels
Transmission Adjusting the Steering................ 45
Checking Fluid Level, Alignment and Balance............. 166
Automatic............................... 149 Vanity Mirror................................... 65 Compact Spare........................... 190
Checking Fluid Level, Vehicle Capacity Load.................. 106 Wrench....................................... 192
Manual.................................... 150 Vehicle Dimensions....................... 214

▲
▼
Main Menu
Index
Windows
Cleaning...................................... 186
Operating the Power................... 59
Rear, Defogger............................ 58
Windshield
Cleaning........................................ 44
Defroster...................................... 78
Wipers, Windshield
Changing Blades........................ 160
Operation...................................... 44
Worn Tires..................................... 165
Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 210

▲
▼
Main Menu
Gas Station Information
Gasoline: Recommended Engine Oil: Tire Pressure (measured cold):

(S) (Except US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) (S)
UNLEADED gasoline API SG or SH grade 205 kPa (2.1 kg/cm 2 , 30 psi)
Pump octane of 86 or higher "Energy Conserving II" oil (Except S)
(Except S) SAE 5W-30 viscosity 220 kPa (2.2 k g / c m 2 , 32 psi)
Premium UNLEADED (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V)
Pump octane of 91 or higher API SG or SH grade Spare Tire Pressure:
Fuel Tank Capacity. "Energy Conserving II" oil 2
415 kPa (4.15 k g / c m , 60 psi)
60 l (15.9 US gal, 13.2 Imp gal) SAE 10W-30 viscosity
Tire Size (Front and Rear):
5-speed Manual Transmission Oil: Engine Oil Capacity: (S)
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity including filter 185/70R1487H
API SF or SG grade recom- (US: S, Canada: S) (Except S)
mended 3.8 l (4.0 USqt,3.3 Imp qt) 205/55R15 87V
(US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS)
Capacity: 4.3 l (4.5 USqt,3.8 Imp qt) Spare Tire:
1.9 l (2.0 US qt,1.7 Imp qt) (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) (S)
4.8 l (5.1 US qt,4.2 Imp qt) T115/70D14
Automatic Transmission Fluid: without filter (Except S)
Honda Premium Formula Auto- (US: S, Canada: S) T135/80D15
matic Transmission Fluid or an 3.5 l (3.7 US qt,3.1 Imp qt)
equivalent DEXRON® II type Auto- (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) Other Tire Information:
matic Transmission Fluid (ATF) 4.0 l (4.2 US qt,3.5 Imp qt) See label on the driver's door-
(US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) jamb.
Capacity: 4.5 (4.8 US qt,4.0 Imp qt)
2.4 l (2.5 US qt,2.1 Imp qt)

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1995 Prelude Online Reference Owner's Manual

Owner's Identification Form

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You WILL be KILLED or The purpose of these messages is to

You CAN be KILLED or

You CAN be HURT if you don't

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

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Your Occupant Protection System

By following these guidelines, you

Driver and Passenger Safety

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The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Driver and Passenger Safety

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The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Driver and Passenger Safety

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The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt

Driver and Passenger Safety

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The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Seat Belt Maintenance

Pull out each belt fully and look for

Each time you have a check-up, ask

Driver and Passenger Safety

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Supplemental Restraint System

Your car is equipped with a INDICATOR PASSENGER'S

The main components in your SRS

One airbag in the steering wheel

Sensors that can detect a severe

Driver and Passenger Safety

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Supplemental Restraint System

After inflating, the airbags will

Driver and Passenger Safety

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Supplemental Restraint System

Important Facts About Airbags Just from viewing the vehicle

Injuries, including fatal injuries, can

Driver and Passenger Safety

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Supplemental Restraint System

Driver and Passenger Safety

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Supplemental Restraint System

We strongly recommend that you do

Driver and Passenger Safety

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Supplemental Restraint System

When the car is ten years old.

Driver and Passenger Safety

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Supplemental Restraint System

System Service Precautions Scrapping an entire car that has

Tell anyone who works on your car

Driver and Passenger Safety

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Additional Safety Information