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Introduction

Congratulations on your selection of the 2008 Honda S2000. We are certain As you read this manual, you will
you will be pleased with your purchase of one of the most sophisticated and find information that is preceded by
technologically-advanced sports cars in the world. a symbol. This
information is intended to help you
One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new vehicle is to avoid damage to your vehicle, other
read this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls and property, or the environment.
convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner’s manual in your vehicle so
you can refer to it at any time.

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

Maintaining your vehicle according to the messages shown on the


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

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Introduction

California Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING: This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm.

Event Data Recorders


This vehicle is equipped with one or more devices commonly referred to as event data recorders. These
devices record front seat belt use, front passenger seat occupancy, airbag deployment data, and the failure
of any airbag system component. This data belongs to the vehicle owner and may not be accessed by anyone else
except as legally required or with the permission of the vehicle owner.

Service Diagnostic Recorders


This vehicle is equipped with service-related devices that record information about powertrain performance. The data
can be used to verify emissions law requirements and/or help technicians diagnose and solve service problems. It may
also be combined with data from other sources for research purposes, but it remains confidential.

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A Few Words About Safety

Your safety, and the safety of others, You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms,
is very important. And operating this including:
vehicle safely is an important
responsibility. Safety Labels − on the vehicle.
Safety Messages − preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of
To help you make informed three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
decisions about safety, we have These signal words mean:
provided operating procedures and
other information on labels and in You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
this manual. This information alerts HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
you to potential hazards that could
hurt you or others. You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
Of course, it is not practical or
possible to warn you about all the You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow
hazards associated with operating or instructions.
maintaining your vehicle. You must
use your own good judgement. Safety Headings − such as Important Safety Reminders or Important
Safety Precautions.
Safety Section − such as Driver and Passenger Safety.
Instructions − how to use this vehicle correctly and safely.

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

2008 S2000 iii


2008 S2000 Online Reference Owner's Manual
Contents

Owner's Identification Form

Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety .............................................................................................................................. iii
Your Vehicle at a Glance (main controls) .................................................................................................... 3
Driver and Passenger Safety (seat belts, SRS, and child protection) .................................................... 5
Instruments and Controls (indicators, gauges, dashboard and steering column) .................................... 43
Features (heating and cooling ,audio,steering wheel, and cruise control) ...................................................... 95
Before Driving (fuel, vehicle break-in, and cargo loading) ...................................................................... 127
Driving (engine and transmission operation) ................................................................................................ 143
Maintenance (minder, fluid checking, minor services, and vehicle storage)........................................... 159
Taking Care of the Unexpected (flat tire, dead battery, overheating, fuses) ..................................... 199
Technical Information (vehicle specifications, tires, and emissions controls) ....................................... 231
Warranty and Customer Relations (U. S. and Canada only) (warranty and contact information) ... 247
Authorized Manuals (U. S. only) (how to order) ......................................................................................... 251
Index ............................................................................................................................... ........................................ I

Service Information Summary ( fluid capacities and tire pressures)

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Overview of Contents

Contents Before Driving Warranty and Customer


A convenient reference to the What gasoline to use, how to break- Relations
sections in this manual. in your new vehicle, and how to load (U.S. and Canada only)
luggage and other cargo. A summary of the warranties
Your Vehicle at a Glance covering your new vehicle, and how
A quick reference to the main Driving to contact us for any reason. Refer to
controls in your vehicle. The proper way to start the engine, your warranty manual for detailed
shift the transmission, and park. information.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Important information about the Maintenance Authorized Manuals
proper use and care of your vehicle’s The maintenance minder shows you (U.S. only)
seat belts, an overview of the when you need to take your vehicle How to order manuals and other
supplemental restraint system, and to the dealer for maintenance service. technical literature.
valuable information on how to There is also a list of things to check
protect children with child restraints. and instructions on how to check Index
them.
Instruments and Controls Service Information Summary
Explains the purpose of each Taking Care of the Unexpected A summary of the information you
instrument panel indicator and gauge, This section covers several problems need when you pull up to the fuel
and how to use the controls on the motorists sometimes experience, pump.
dashboard and steering column. and details how to handle them.

Features Technical Information


How to operate the heating and air ID numbers, dimensions, capacities,
conditioning system, the audio and technical information.
system, and other convenience
features.
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Your Vehicle at a Glance

INSTRUMENT PANEL INDICATORS (P.46) PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF INDICATOR

Your Vehicle at a Glance


GAUGES (P.53) (P.26)

DRIVER’S FRONT PASSENGER’S FRONT


AIRBAG AIRBAG
(P.9, 20) (P.9, 20)

AUDIO SYSTEM*
(P.104)
POWER DOOR
LOCK
(P.65) MANUAL
TRANSMISSION
(P.147)
POWER WINDOW
SWITCHES
(P.70)

MIRROR HAZARD WARNING


CONTROLS BUTTON
(P.87) (P.60)

ROOF SWITCH* REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON


(P.73) (P.61)
U.S. S2000 model is shown.

* : If equipped

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Your Vehicle at a Glance

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS CLOCK BUTTON INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST
(P.59) (P.56) (P.60) (VSA) SYSTEM OFF SWITCH
(P.153)

REMOTE AUDIO
CONTROLS*2
(P.122)

HEATING/COOLING*2
CONTROLS
(P.96, 100)

ENGINE START BUTTON


(P.146)
WINDSHIELD WIPERS/
WASHERS
(P.58)

CRUISE CONTROL
HOOD RELEASE HANDLE CRUISE BUTTON HORN*1 BUTTONS
(P.130) (P.124) (P.124)

*1 : To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.
*2 : If equipped
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Driver and Passenger Safety

This section gives you important Important Safety Precautions .......... 6 How the Passenger Airbag Off
information about how to protect Your Vehicle’s Safety Features........ 7 Indicator Works ....................... 26
yourself and your passenger. It Seat Belts ........................................ 8 Airbag Service .............................. 27
shows you how to use seat belts Airbags ............................................ 9 Additional Safety Precautions .... 28

Driver and Passenger Safety


properly. It explains how your Protecting Adults and Teens.......... 10 Protecting Children − General
airbags work, and it tells you how to 1. Close and Lock the Doors ...... 10 Guidelines ................................. 29
properly restrain children in your 2. Adjust the Seats ....................... 10 All Children Must Be
vehicle. 3. Adjust the Seat-Backs ............. 11 Restrained ................................ 29
4. Fasten and Position the Your Vehicle is Not
Seat Belts .............................. 12 Recommended for Child
5. Maintain a Proper Sitting Passengers ........................... 30
Position ................................. 13 The Passenger’s Airbag
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 14 Can Pose Serious Risks .......... 30
Additional Safety Precautions .... 15 Additional Safety Precautions .... 32
Additional Information About Protecting Small Children .............. 33
Your Seat Belts ........................ 16 Selecting a Child Seat ...................... 34
Seat Belt System Components ... 16 Installing a Child Seat ..................... 34
Lap/Shoulder Belt ....................... 17 Protecting Larger Children ............ 37
Automatic Seat Belt Checking Seat Belt Fit ................ 37
Tensioners ................................ 18 Using a Booster Seat ................... 38
Seat Belt Maintenance ................ 18 When Can a Larger Child Ride
Additional Information About Your in This Vehicle ......................... 39
Airbags ...................................... 20 Additional Safety Precautions .... 40
Airbag System Components ....... 20 Carbon Monoxide Hazard .............. 41
How Your Airbags Work ............ 22 Safety Labels .................................... 42
How the SRS Indicator Works ... 25

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Important Safety Precautions

You’ll find many safety Never carry an infant in a rear-facing Control Your Speed
recommendations throughout this child seat in this vehicle. Excessive speed is a major factor in
section, and throughout this manual. If an older child must ride in this crash injuries and deaths. Generally,
The recommendations on this page vehicle, follow all child safety the higher the speed, the greater the
are the ones we consider to be the instructions and warnings in this risk, but serious injuries can also
most important. manual (see pages 29 − 40 ). occur at lower speeds. Never drive
faster than is safe for current
Always Wear Your Seat Belt Be Aware of Airbag Hazards conditions, regardless of the
A seat belt is your best protection in While airbags can save lives, they maximum speed posted.
all types of collisions. Airbags are can cause serious or fatal injuries to
designed to supplement seat belts, occupants who sit too close to them, Keep Your Vehicle in Safe
not replace them. So even though or are not properly restrained. Condition
your vehicle is equipped with airbags, Infants, young children, and short Having a tire blowout or a
make sure you and your passenger adults are at the greatest risk. Be mechanical failure can be extremely
always wear your seat belts, and sure to follow all instructions and hazardous. To reduce the possibility
wear them properly (see page 12 ). warnings in this manual. of such problems, check your tire
pressures and condition frequently,
Your Vehicle is Not Don’t Drink and Drive and perform all regularly scheduled
Recommended for Child Alcohol and driving don’t mix. Even maintenance (see page 161 ).
Passengers one drink can reduce your ability to
Since all children are safest in the respond to changing conditions, and
back seat of a vehicle, and your your reaction time gets worse with
vehicle does not have a back seat, we every additional drink. So don’t drink
recommend that you do not carry a and drive, and don’t let your friends
child passenger. drink and drive, either.

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Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

Your vehicle is equipped with many


(1) (9) (8) (3) (4) (7) (6) features that work together to
protect you and your passenger
during a crash.

Driver and Passenger Safety


Some features do not require any
action on your part. These include a
strong steel framework that forms a
safety cage around the passenger
(8) compartment; front and rear crush
zones, a collapsible steering column;
(2) and tensioners that tighten the seat
belts in a crash.
(5)
However, you and your passenger
can’t take full advantage of these
features unless you remain sitting in
a proper position and always wear
(1) Safety Cage your seat belts. In fact, some safety
(2) Crush Zones features can contribute to injuries if
(3) Seats and Seat-Backs they are not used properly.
(4) Head Restraints
(5) Collapsible Steering Column
(2) (6) Seat Belts The following pages explain how you
(7) Seat Belt Tensioners can take an active role in protecting
(8) Front Airbags yourself and your passenger.
(9) Door Locks

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Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

Seat Belts Help keep you from being thrown


Your vehicle is equipped with seat against the inside of the vehicle
belts in both seating positions. Not wearing a seat belt properly and against a passenger.
increases the chance of serious
Your seat belt system also includes injury or death in a crash, even Keep you from being thrown out
an indicator on the instrument panel though your vehicle has airbags. of the vehicle.
and a beeper to remind you and your
passengers to fasten your seat belts. Be sure you and your Help keep you in a good position
passenger always wear seat should the airbags ever deploy. A
Why Wear Seat Belts belts and wear them properly. good position reduces the risk of
Seat belts have proven to be the injury from an inflating airbag and
single most effective safety device allows you to get the best
for adults and larger children. When properly worn, seat belts: advantage from the airbag.

Not wearing a seat belt properly Keep you connected to the vehicle Of course, seat belts cannot
increases the chance of serious so you can take advantage of the completely protect you in every
injury or death in a crash, even vehicle’s built-in safety features. crash. But in most cases, seat belts
though your vehicle has airbags. can reduce your risk of serious
Help protect you in almost every injury.
In addition, most states and all type of crash, including frontal,
Canadian provinces require you to side, and rear impacts and What you should do: Always wear
wear seat belts. rollovers. your seat belt, and make sure you
wear it properly.

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Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

Airbags The most important things you need What you should do: Always wear
to know about your airbags are: your seat belt properly, and sit
upright and as far back from the
Airbags do not replace seat belts. steering wheel as possible while

Driver and Passenger Safety


They are designed to supplement allowing full control of the vehicle. A
the seat belts. passenger should move the seat as
far back from the dashboard as
Airbags offer no protection in side possible.
impacts, rear impacts, rollovers,
or minor frontal collisions. The rest of this section gives more
detailed information about how you
Airbags can pose serious hazards. can maximize your safety.
To do their job, airbags must
inflate with tremendous force. So Remember, however, that no safety
Your vehicle has a supplemental while airbags help save lives, they system can prevent all injuries or
restraint system (SRS) with front can cause minor injuries or more deaths that can occur in a severe
airbags to help protect the heads and serious or even fatal injuries if crash, even when seat belts are
chests of the driver and a passenger occupants are not properly properly worn and the airbags deploy.
during a moderate to severe frontal restrained or sitting properly.
collision (see page 22 for more
information on how your airbags
work).

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Protecting Adults and Teens

Introduction Locking the doors reduces the 2.Adjust the Seats


The following pages provide chance of someone being thrown out
instructions on how to properly of the vehicle during a crash, and it
protect the driver, an adult helps prevent a passenger from
passenger or teenage child large accidentally opening a door and
enough and mature enough to drive falling out.
or ride in your vehicle. See pages
29 − 40 for important guidelines on Locking the doors also helps prevent
how to properly protect a child in a an outsider from unexpectedly
forward-facing child seat or a larger opening a door when you come to a
child passenger. stop.

1.Close and Lock the Doors See page 65 for how to lock the
After everyone has entered the doors, and page 47 for how the door-
vehicle, be sure the doors are closed open indicator works. Adjust the driver’s seat as far to the
and locked. rear as possible while allowing you to
maintain full control of the vehicle.
Have a passenger adjust his or her
seat as far to the rear as possible.
Your vehicle has door and trunk
open indicators on the instrument If you sit too close to the steering
panel to indicate when either door or wheel or dashboard, you can be
the trunk is not tightly closed. seriously injured by an inflating front
airbag, or by striking the steering
wheel or dashboard.

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Protecting Adults and Teens

The National Highway Traffic Safety 3.Adjust the Seat-Backs


Administration and Transport
Canada recommend that drivers Sitting too close to a front
allow at least 10 inches (25 cm) airbag can result in serious

Driver and Passenger Safety


between the center of the steering injury or death if the front
wheel and the chest. airbags inflate.

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

Once your seat is adjusted correctly,


rock it back and forth to make sure Adjust the driver’s seat-back to a
the seat is locked in position. comfortable, upright position,
leaving ample space between your
See page 69 for how to adjust the chest and the airbag cover in the
seats. center of the steering wheel.

A passenger should also adjust their


seat-back to a comfortable, upright
position.

CONTINUED

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Protecting Adults and Teens

Reclining a seat-back so that the 4.Fasten and Position the Seat


shoulder part of the belt no longer Belts
rests against the occupant’s chest Insert the latch plate into the buckle,
reduces the protective capability of then tug on the belt to make sure the
the belt. It also increases the chance belt is securely latched. Check that
of sliding under the belt in a crash the belt is not twisted, because a
and being seriously injured. The twisted belt can cause serious
farther a seat-back is reclined, the injuries in a crash.
greater the risk of injury.

See page 69 for how to adjust the


seat-backs.

Position the lap part of the belt as


low as possible across your hips,
Reclining the seat-back too far then pull up on the shoulder part of
can result in serious injury or the belt so the lap part fits snugly.
death in a crash. This lets your strong pelvic bones
take the force of a crash and reduces
Adjust the seat-back to an the chance of internal injuries.
upright position, and sit well
back in the seat.

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Protecting Adults and Teens

If necessary, pull up on the shoulder Never place the shoulder portion of a 5.Maintain a Proper Sitting
belt again to remove any slack, then lap/shoulder belt under your arm or Position
check that the belt rests across the behind your back. This could cause After occupants have adjusted their
center of your chest and over your very serious injuries in a crash. seats and put on seat belts, it is very

Driver and Passenger Safety


shoulder. This spreads the forces of important that they continue to sit
a crash over the strongest bones in If a seat belt does not seem to work upright, well back in their seats, with
your upper body. properly, it may not protect the their feet on the floor, until the
occupant in a crash. vehicle is parked and the engine is
off.
No one should sit in a seat with an
Improperly positioning the seat inoperative seat belt. Using a seat Sitting improperly can increase the
belts can cause serious injury belt that is not working properly can chance of injury during a crash. For
or death in a crash. result in serious injury or death. example, if an occupant slouches,
Have your dealer check the belt as lies down, turns sideways, sits
Make sure all seat belts are soon as possible. forward, leans forward or sideways,
properly positioned before or puts one or both feet up, the
driving. See page 16 for additional chance of injury during a crash is
information about your seat belts greatly increased.
and how to take care of them.

CONTINUED

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Protecting Adults and Teens

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

This will reduce the risk of injuries


Sitting improperly or out of to both you and your unborn child
position can result in serious that can be caused by a crash or an
injury or death in a crash. inflating front airbag.

Always sit upright, well back in Each time you have a checkup, ask
the seat, with your feet on the your doctor if it’s okay for you to
floor. If you are pregnant, the best way to drive.
protect yourself and your unborn
child when driving or riding in a
vehicle is to always wear a seat belt,
and keep the lap part of the belt as
low as possible across the hips.

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Protecting Adults and Teens

Additional Safety Precautions Do not place hard or sharp objects Keep your hands and arms away
Two people should never use the between yourself and a front from the airbag covers. If your
same seat belt. If they do, they airbag. Carrying hard or sharp hands or arms are close to an
could be very seriously injured in a objects on your lap, or driving with airbag cover, they could be injured

Driver and Passenger Safety


crash. a pipe or other sharp object in if the airbag inflates.
your mouth, can result in injuries
Do not put any accessories on seat if your front airbag inflates.
belts. Devices intended to improve
occupant comfort or reposition the Do not attach or place objects on
shoulder part of a seat belt can the airbag covers. Objects on the
reduce the protective capability of covers marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG’’
the belt and increase the chance of could interfere with the proper
serious injury in a crash. operation of the airbags or be
propelled inside the vehicle and
hurt someone if the airbags inflate.

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Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt System Components the beeper stops, the indicator will If the indicator comes on or the
Your seat belt system includes lap/ stop flashing but remain on. beeper sounds when the driver’s seat
shoulder belts in both seating belt is latched and there is no
positions. The seat belts are also If a passenger does not fasten their passenger and no items on the
equipped with automatic seat belt seat belt, the indicator will come on passenger’s seat, something may be
tensioners. about 6 seconds after the ignition interfering with the monitoring
switch is turned to the ON (II) system. Look for and remove:
This system uses the same sensors position.
as the front airbags to monitor Any items under the passenger’s
whether the seat belts are latched or If either the driver or passenger does seat.
unlatched, and how much weight is not fasten their seat belt, the beeper
on the passenger’s seat (see page will sound and the indicator will flash Any objects hanging on the seat.
24 ). again at regular intervals.
Any object(s) touching the rear of
The seat belt system When no one is sitting in the the seat-back.
includes an indicator on the passenger’s seat, or a child or small
instrument panel and a beeper to adult is riding there, the indicator If no obstructions are found, have
remind you and your passenger to should not come on and the beeper your vehicle checked by a dealer.
fasten your seat belts. should not sound.

This system monitors the seat belts.


If you turn the ignition switch to the
ON (II) position before your seat
belt is fastened, the beeper will
sound and the indicator will flash. If
your seat belt is not fastened before

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Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Lap/Shoulder Belt Both seat belts have an emergency


The lap and shoulder belt goes over retractor. In normal driving, the
your shoulder, across your chest, retractor lets you move freely in your
and across your hips. seat while it keeps some tension on

Driver and Passenger Safety


the belt. During a collision or sudden
To fasten the belt, insert the latch stop, the retractor automatically
plate into the buckle, then tug on the locks the belt to help restrain your
belt to make sure the buckle is body.
latched (see page 12 for how to
properly position the belt). The passenger’s seat belt has a
lockable retractor that must be
To unlock the belt, press the red activated to secure a forward-facing
PRESS button on the buckle. Guide child seat (see page 34 ).
the belt across your body so that it
retracts completely. After exiting the If the shoulder part of the belt is
vehicle, be sure the belt is out of the pulled all the way out, the lockable
way and will not get closed in the retractor will activate. The belt will
door. retract, but it will not allow the
passenger to move freely.

To deactivate the lockable retractor,


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

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Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners The tensioners are designed to Seat Belt Maintenance
activate in any collision severe For safety, you should check the
enough to cause the front airbags to condition of your seat belts regularly.
deploy.
Pull each belt out fully and look for
However, the tensioners can be frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check
activated during a collision in which that the latches work smoothly and
the airbags do not deploy. In this the belts retract easily. If a belt does
case, the airbags would not be not retract easily, cleaning it may
needed, but the additional restraint correct the problem (see page 184 ).
could be helpful. Any belt that is not in good condition
or not working properly will not
When the tensioners are activated, provide good protection and should
the seat belts will remain tight until be replaced as soon as possible.
For added protection, the seat belts they are unbuckled.
are equipped with automatic seat Honda provides a limited warranty
belt tensioners. When activated, the on seat belts. See your Honda
tensioners immediately tighten the Warranty Information booklet for
belts to help hold the driver and a details.
passenger in place.
If a seat belt is worn during a crash,
it must be replaced by your dealer. A
belt that has been worn during a
crash may not provide the same level
of protection in a subsequent crash.

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Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

The dealer should also inspect the


anchors for damage and replace
them if needed. If the automatic seat Not checking or maintaining
belt tensioners activate during a seat belts can result in serious

Driver and Passenger Safety


crash, they must be replaced. injury or death if the seat belts
do not work properly when
needed.

Check your seat belts regularly


and have any problem
corrected as soon as possible.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

Airbag System Components

(8) (2)

(9)

(1)

(4) (4)
(1) Driver’s Front Airbag (3)
(2) Passenger’s Front Airbag
(3) Control Unit
(4) Seat Belt Tensioners (6)
(5) Driver’s Seat Position Sensor
(6) Passenger’s Weight Sensors
(7) Passenger’s Weight Sensor Unit (5) (6) (7)
(8) Front Impact Sensors
(9) Passenger Airbag Off Indicator

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

Your airbag system includes: Weight sensors that monitor the An indicator on the dashboard that
weight on the passenger’s seat. If alerts you that the passenger’s
Two SRS (supplemental restraint the weight is about 65 lbs (29 kg) airbag has been turned off (see
system) airbags. The driver’s or less (the weight of an infant or page 26 ).

Driver and Passenger Safety


airbag is stored in the center of small child), the passenger’s
the steering wheel; the passenger’s airbag will be turned off (see page Emergency backup power in case
airbag is stored in the dashboard. 24 ). your vehicle’s electrical system is
Both are marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG’’ disconnected in a crash.
(see page 22 ). A sophisticated electronic system
that continually monitors and
Automatic seat belt tensioners records information about the
(see page 18 ). sensors, the control unit, the
airbag activators, the seat belt
Sensors that can detect a tensioners, and driver and
moderate to severe front impact. passenger seat belt use when the
ignition switch is in the ON (II)
Sensors that can detect whether position.
the driver’s seat belt and the
passenger’s seat belt are latched An indicator on the instrument
or unlatched (see page 16 ). panel that alerts you to a possible
problem with your airbags,
A driver’s seat position sensor that sensors, or seat belt tensioners
monitors the distance of the seat (see page 25 ).
from the airbag. If the seat is too
far forward, the airbag will inflate
with less force (see page 24 ).

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

How Your Airbags Work During a frontal crash, your seat belt
restrains your lower body and torso,
and the front airbag helps protect
your head and chest.

Although both airbags normally


inflate within a split second of each
other, it is possible for only one
airbag to deploy.

This can happen if the severity of a


collision is at the margin, or
threshold, that determines whether
or not the airbags will deploy. In
If you ever have a moderate to such cases, the seat belt will provide After inflating, the front airbags will
severe frontal collision, sensors will sufficient protection, and the immediately deflate, so they won’t
detect the vehicle’s rapid supplemental protection offered by interfere with the driver’s visibility,
deceleration. the airbag would be minimal. or the ability to steer or operate
other controls.
If the rate of deceleration is high Only the driver’s airbag can deploy if
enough, the control unit will instantly there is no passenger in the The total time for inflation and
inflate the driver’s and passenger’s passenger’s seat, or if the advanced deflation is one-tenth of a second, so
airbags, at the time and with the airbag system has turned the fast that most occupants are not
force needed. passenger’s airbag off (see page 24 ). aware that the airbags deployed until
they see them lying in their laps.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

After a crash, you may see what Dual-Stage Airbags Dual-Threshold Airbags
looks like smoke. This is actually Your front airbags are dual-stage Your front airbags are also dual-
powder from the airbag’s surface. airbags. This means they have two threshold airbags. Airbags with this
Although the powder is not harmful, inflation stages that can be ignited feature have two deployment

Driver and Passenger Safety


people with respiratory problems sequentially or simultaneously, thresholds that depend on whether
may experience some temporary depending on crash severity. sensors detect the occupant is
discomfort. If this occurs, get out of wearing a seat belt or not.
the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do In a more severe crash, both stages
so. will ignite simultaneously to provide If the occupant’s belt is not latched,
the quickest and greatest protection. the airbag will deploy at a slightly
lower threshold, because the
In a less severe crash, one stage will occupant would need extra
ignite first, then the second stage protection.
will ignite a split second later. This
provides longer airbag inflation time If the occupant’s belt is latched, the
with a little less force. airbag will inflate at a slightly higher
threshold, when the airbag would be
needed to supplement the protection
provided by the seat belt.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

Advanced Airbags
Your airbags are also advanced
airbags. The main purpose of this
feature is to help prevent airbag-
caused injuries to short drivers and
children who ride in the passenger’s
seat.
DRIVER’S
For both advanced airbags to work SEAT PASSENGER’S
properly: POSITION SEAT WEIGHT
SENSOR SENSOR
Occupants must sit upright and
wear their seat belts properly.
The driver’s advanced front airbag The passenger’s advanced airbag
Do not spill any liquids on or system includes a seat position system has weight sensors under the
under the seats, cover the sensors, sensor under the seat. If the seat is seat. Although Honda does not
or put any objects or metal items too far forward, the airbag will encourage carrying a child in the
under the seats. inflate with less force, regardless of passenger’s seat, if the sensors
the severity of the impact. detect the weight of an infant or
Failure to follow these instructions small child (up to about 65 lbs or 29
could damage the sensors or prevent If there is a problem with the sensor, kg), the system will automatically
them from working properly. the SRS indicator will come on, and turn the passenger’s airbag off.
the airbag will inflate in the normal
manner regardless of the driver’s Be aware that objects placed on the
seating position. passenger’s seat can also cause the
airbag to be turned off.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

When the airbag is turned off, a To ensure that the passenger’s How the SRS Indicator
‘‘passenger airbag off’’ indicator in advanced airbag system will work Works
the center of the dashboard comes properly, do not do anything that The SRS indicator alerts you to a
on (see page 26 ). would increase or decrease the potential problem with your airbags

Driver and Passenger Safety


weight on the passenger’s seat, such or seat belt tensioners.
If the weight sensors detect there is as hanging heavy objects on the seat.
no passenger in the seat, the airbag When you turn the ignition switch to
will be off. However, the passenger the ON (II) position, this indicator
airbag off indicator will not come on. comes on briefly then goes off. This
tells you the system is working
properly.

If the indicator comes on at any


other time, or does not come on at all,
you should have the system checked
by your dealer. For example:

If the SRS indicator does not come


on after you turn the ignition
switch to the ON (II) position.
If the indicator stays on after the
engine starts.
If the indicator comes on or
flashes on and off while you drive.

CONTINUED

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

If you see any of these indications, How the Passenger Airbag Off Be aware that objects placed on the
the airbags and seat belt tensioners Indicator Works passenger’s seat can cause the
may not work properly when you indicator to come on.
need them.
If no weight is detected in the
passenger’s seat, the airbag will be
automatically shut off. However, the
Ignoring the SRS indicator can U. S. Canada
indicator will not come on.
result in serious injury or death
if the airbag systems or
tensioners do not work properly.

Have your vehicle checked by a


dealer as soon as possible if PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF INDICATOR
the SRS indicator alerts you to
a possible problem. This indicator alerts you that the
passenger’s airbag has been shut off
because weight sensors detect about
65 lbs (29 kg) or less (the weight of
an infant or small child) on the
passenger’s seat. It does not mean
there is a problem with the airbag.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

The passenger airbag off indicator If the indicator comes on with no Airbag Service
may come on and off repeatedly if passenger and no objects on the Your airbag systems are virtually
the total weight on the seat is near passenger seat, or with an adult maintenance free, and there are no
the airbag cutoff threshold. riding there, something may be parts you can safely service.

Driver and Passenger Safety


interfering with the weight sensors. However, you must have your
If an adult or teenage passenger is Look for and remove: vehicle serviced if:
riding in front, move the seat as far
to the rear as possible, and have the Any items under the passenger’s An airbag ever inflates. Any airbag
passenger sit upright and wear the seat. that has deployed must be
seat belt properly. replaced along with the control
Any objects hanging on the seat. unit and other related parts. Any
seat belt tensioner that activates
Any object(s) touching the rear of must also be replaced.
the seat-back.
Do not try to remove or replace
If no obstructions are found, have any airbag by yourself. This must
your vehicle checked by a dealer as be done by an authorized dealer or
soon as possible. a knowledgeable body shop.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

The SRS indicator alerts you to a Additional Safety Precautions Do not remove or modify a seat
problem. Take your vehicle to an Do not attempt to deactivate your without consulting your dealer.
authorized dealer as soon as airbags. Together, airbags and This could make the driver’s seat
possible. If you ignore this seat belts provide the best position sensor or the passenger’s
indication, your airbags may not protection. weight sensors ineffective. If it is
operate properly. necessary to remove or modify a
Do not tamper with airbag seat to accommodate a person
If your vehicle has a moderate to components or wiring for any with disabilities, first contact
severe impact. Even if your reason. Tampering could cause Honda Automobile Customer
airbags do not inflate, your dealer the airbags to deploy, possibly Service at (800) 999-1009.
should inspect the driver’s seat causing very serious injury.
position sensor, the passenger’s
weight sensors, the seat belt
tensioners, and all seat belts worn
during the crash to make sure
they are operating properly.

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Protecting Children − General Guidelines

Children depend on adults to protect All Children Must Be Restrained Larger children must be restrained
them. However, despite their best Each year, many children are injured with a lap/shoulder belt and ride on
intentions, many adults do not know or killed in vehicle crashes because a booster seat until the seat belt fits
how to properly protect child they are either unrestrained or not them properly (see pages 37 − 40 ).

Driver and Passenger Safety


passengers. properly restrained. In fact, vehicle
accidents are the number one cause
If you ever need to drive with a child of the death of children ages 12 and
in your vehicle, be sure to read this under. Children who are unrestrained
section. It begins with important or improperly restrained can be
general guidelines, then presents To reduce the number of child seriously injured or killed in a
special information for small deaths and injuries, every state and crash.
children who must ride in a forward- Canadian province requires that
facing child seat, and for larger children be properly restrained when Any child too small for a seat
children. they ride in a vehicle. belt should be properly
restrained in a child seat. A
Any child who is too small to wear a larger child should be properly
seat belt must be restrained in an restrained with a seat belt and
approved child seat that is properly use a booster seat if necessary.
secured to the vehicle (see pages
33 − 36 ).

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Protecting Children − General Guidelines

Your Vehicle is Not The Passenger’s Airbag Can Pose Small Children
Recommended for Child Serious Risks Placing a forward-facing child seat in
Passengers Airbags have been designed to help the passenger’s seat can be
According to accident statistics, protect adults in a moderate to hazardous. If the vehicle seat is too
children of all ages and sizes are severe frontal collision. To do this, far forward, or the child’s head is
safer when they are restrained in a the passenger’s airbag is quite large, thrown forward during a collision, an
back seat. The National Highway and it can inflate with enough force inflating airbag can strike the child
Traffic Safety Administration and to cause very serious injuries. with enough force to kill or very
Transport Canada recommend that seriously injure a small child.
all children aged 12 and under be Even though your vehicle has an
properly restrained in a back seat. advanced airbag system that Larger Children
Some states have laws restricting automatically turns the passenger’s Children who have outgrown child
where children may ride. airbag off (see page 24 ), please seats are also at risk of being injured
follow these guidelines: or killed by an inflating passenger’s
Since this vehicle does not have a airbag. If a larger child must ride in
back seat, we strongly recommend Infants this vehicle, see page 37 for
that you do not carry any child who Never put a rear-facing child seat in important guidelines on how to
is not large enough or mature this vehicle. If the airbag inflates, it decide when a child is ready to ride
enough to ride in front (see page 37 ). can hit the back of the child seat in the passenger’s seat and how to
with enough force to kill or very properly protect the child.
seriously injure an infant.

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Protecting Children − General Guidelines

To remind you of the passenger’s U.S. Models


airbag hazards, your vehicle has SUN VISOR DASHBOARD
warning labels on the dashboard
(U.S. models) and on the driver’s and

Driver and Passenger Safety


passenger’s visors. Please read and
follow the instructions on these
labels.

Canadian Models
SUN VISOR

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Protecting Children − General Guidelines

Additional Safety Precautions Do not leave children alone in a Keep vehicle keys and remote
Never hold a small child on your vehicle. Leaving children without transmitters out of the reach of
lap. If you are not wearing a seat adult supervision is illegal in most children. Even very young
belt in a crash, you could be states and Canadian provinces, children learn how to unlock
thrown forward and crush the and can be very hazardous. vehicle doors, turn on the ignition
child against the dashboard. If you switch, and open the trunk, which
are wearing a seat belt, the child For example, a small child left in a can lead to accidental injury or
can be torn from your arms and be vehicle on a hot day can die from death.
seriously hurt or killed. heatstroke. A child left alone with
the key in the ignition switch can
Never put a seat belt over yourself accidentally set the vehicle in
and a child. During a crash, the motion, possibly injuring
belt could press deep into the child themselves or others.
and cause serious or fatal injuries.
Lock both doors and the trunk
Never let two children use the when your vehicle is not in use.
same seat belt. If they do, they Children who play in vehicles can
could be very seriously injured in a accidentally get trapped inside.
crash. Teach your children not to play in
or around vehicles. Know how to
operate the emergency trunk
opener and decide if your children
should be shown how to use this
feature (see page 66 ).

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Protecting Small Children

Because an inflating airbag can Child Seat Placement


seriously injure or kill small children, We also recommend that a small
we recommend that you do not carry child use the child seat until the child
a small child as a passenger in this reaches the weight or height limit

Driver and Passenger Safety


vehicle. for the seat.

If you decide to transport a small


child in this vehicle, be sure to move
the passenger seat as far to the rear Placing a forward-facing child
as possible, and follow the seat in the passenger’s seat
instructions and guidelines in the can result in serious injury or
following pages. death if the airbag inflates.

Child Seat Type If you must place a forward-


A child who is at least one year old, facing child seat in the
and who fits within the child seat passenger’s seat, move the
maker’s weight and height limits, vehicle seat as far back as
should be restrained in a forward- possible and properly restrain
facing, upright child seat. the child.

Of the different seats available, we


recommend those that have a five-
point harness system as shown.

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Selecting a Child Seat, Installing a Child Seat

Selecting a Child Seat Installing a Child Seat If the child seat is not secure, use
To provide proper protection, a child After selecting a proper child seat, a different style of child seat that
seat should meet three there are three main steps in can be firmly secured.
requirements: installing a child seat:
3. Secure the child in the child seat.
1. The child seat should meet U.S. or 1. Properly secure the child seat to Make sure the child is properly
Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety the vehicle. All child seats must be strapped in the child seat
Standard 213. Look for FMVSS secured to the vehicle with the lap according to the child seat maker’s
213 or CMVSS 213 on the box. part of a lap/shoulder belt. A child instructions. A child who is not
whose seat is not properly secured properly secured in a child seat
2. The child seat should be of the to the vehicle can be endangered can be seriously injured in a crash.
proper type and size to fit the child. in a crash.
The following pages provide
3. The child seat should fit the 2. Make sure the child seat is firmly guidelines on how to properly install
passenger’s seat. secured. After installing a child a forward-facing child seat.
seat, push and pull the seat
Before purchasing a child seat, or forward and from side-to-side to
using a previously purchased one, we verify that it is secure.
recommend that you test the seat to
make sure it fits properly in the A child seat secured with a seat
passenger’s seat. belt should be installed as firmly
as possible. However, it does not
need to be ‘‘rock solid.’’ Some side-
to-side movement can be expected
and should not reduce the child
seat’s effectiveness.

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Installing a Child Seat

In this vehicle, a forward-facing child


seat must be secured to the vehicle
with the lap part of the lap/shoulder
belt. In addition, the lockable

Driver and Passenger Safety


retractor must be activated to secure
a child seat.

1. Move the vehicle seat to the rear-


most position. Moving the seat as
far back as possible reduces the
chance of a child being injured or
killed if the passenger’s airbag
inflates.
2. With the child seat in position, 4. After the belt has retracted, tug on
route the belt through the child it. If the belt is locked, you will not
seat according to the seat maker’s be able to pull it out. If you can pull
instructions, then insert the latch the belt out, it is not locked and
plate into the buckle. you will need to repeat these steps.

3. To activate the lockable retractor,


slowly pull the shoulder part of the
belt all the way out until it stops,
then let the belt feed back into the
retractor.

CONTINUED

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Installing a Child Seat

To deactivate the lockable retractor


and remove a child seat, unlatch the
buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let
the belt fully retract.

5. After confirming that the belt is 6. Push and pull the child seat
locked, grab the shoulder part of forward and from side-to-side to
the belt near the buckle, and pull verify that it is secure enough to
up to remove any slack from the stay upright during normal driving
lap part of the belt. Remember, if maneuvers. If the child seat is not
the lap part of the belt is not tight, secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to
the child seat will not be secure. retract fully, then repeat these
steps.
To remove slack, it may help to
put weight on the child seat, or
push on the back of the seat while
pulling up on the belt.

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Protecting Larger Children

When a child reaches the Checking Seat Belt Fit


recommended weight or height limit
for a forward-facing child seat, the Allowing a larger child age 12 or
child should sit on a booster seat and under to ride in the vehicle can

Driver and Passenger Safety


wear a lap/shoulder belt. result in injury or death if the
passenger’s airbag inflates.
Since this vehicle does not have a
back seat, we recommend that you If a larger child must ride in the
do not carry a larger child, age 12 or vehicle, adjust the vehicle seat
under, as a passenger. as far back as possible, use a
booster seat if needed, and
However, the following pages have the child sit up properly
provide guidelines to help you decide and wear the seat belt properly.
when a given child may ride in this
vehicle, and how to properly protect To determine if a lap/shoulder belt
the child. properly fits a child, have the child
put on the seat belt, then ask
yourself:

1. Does the child sit all the way back


against the seat?

2. Do the child’s knees bend


comfortably over the edge of the
seat?
CONTINUED

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Protecting Larger Children

3. Does the shoulder belt cross Using a Booster Seat to drive.


between the child’s neck and arm?
Booster seats can be high-back or
4. Is the lap part of the belt as low as low-back. Whichever style you select,
possible, touching the child’s make sure the booster meets federal
thighs? safety standards and that you follow
the booster seat maker’s instructions.
5. Will the child be able to stay
seated like this for the whole trip? If a child who uses a booster seat
rides in this vehicle, move the
If you answer yes to all these vehicle seat as far to the rear as
questions, the child is ready to wear possible, and be sure the child is
the lap/shoulder belt correctly. If wearing the seat belt properly.
you answer no to any question, the
child needs to ride on a booster seat. A child who has outgrown a forward- A child may continue using a booster
facing child seat should use a seat until the tops of their ears are
booster seat until the lap/shoulder even with the top of the vehicle’s or
belt fits them properly without the booster’s seat-back. A child of this
booster. height should be tall enough to use
the lap/shoulder belt without a
Some states and Canadian provinces booster seat.
also require children to use a booster
seat until they reach a given age or
weight (e.g., 6 years or 60 lbs). Be
sure to check current laws in the
states or provinces where you intend

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Protecting Larger Children

When Can a Larger Child Ride in Physical Size If you decide that a child can safely
This Vehicle Physically, a child must be large ride in this vehicle, be sure to:
The National Highway Traffic Safety enough for the lap/shoulder belt to
Administration and Transport properly fit (see page 37 ). If the seat Carefully read the owner’s manual,

Driver and Passenger Safety


Canada recommend that all children belt does not fit properly, with or and make sure you understand all
age 12 and under be properly without the child sitting on a booster, seat belt instructions and all safety
restrained in a back seat. the child should not sit in this vehicle. information.

If the passenger’s airbag inflates in a Maturity Move the vehicle seat to the rear-
moderate to severe frontal collision, To safely ride in this vehicle, a child most position.
the airbag can cause serious injuries must be able to follow the rules,
to a child who is unrestrained, including sitting properly, and Have the child sit up straight, back
improperly restrained, sitting too wearing the seat belt properly against the seat, and feet on or
close to the airbag, or out of position. throughout ride. near the floor.

Of course, children vary widely. And Check that the child’s seat belt is
while age may be one indicator of properly and securely positioned.
when a child can safely ride in this
vehicle. There are other important Supervise the child. Even mature
factors you should consider. children sometimes need to be
reminded to fasten the seat belts
or sit properly.

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Protecting Larger Children

Additional Safety Precautions Do not put any accessories on a


Do not let a child wear a seat belt seat belt. Devices intended to
across the neck. This could result improve a child’s comfort or
in serious neck injuries during a reposition the shoulder part of a
crash. seat belt can make the belt less
effective and increase the chance
Do not let a child put the shoulder of serious injury in a crash.
part of a seat belt behind the back
or under the arm. This could
cause very serious injuries during
a crash. It also increases the
chance that the child will slide
under the belt in a crash and be
injured.

Two children should never use the


same seat belt. If they do, they
could be very seriously injured in a
crash.

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Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Your vehicle’s exhaust contains With the trunk open, airflow can pull
carbon monoxide gas. Carbon exhaust gas into your vehicle’s
monoxide should not enter the Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. interior and create a hazardous
vehicle in normal driving if you Breathing it can cause condition. If you must drive with the

Driver and Passenger Safety


maintain your vehicle properly and unconsciousness and even kill trunk open, open all the windows,
follow the information on this page. you. and set the heating and cooling
system as shown below.
Have the exhaust system inspected Avoid any enclosed areas or
for leaks whenever: activities that expose you to If you must sit in your parked vehicle
carbon monoxide. with the engine running, even in an
The vehicle is raised for an oil unconfined area, adjust the heating
change. and cooling system as follows:
High levels of carbon monoxide can
You notice a change in the sound collect rapidly in enclosed areas, 1. Select the fresh air mode.
of the exhaust. such as a garage. Do not run the 2. Select the mode.
engine with the garage door closed. 3. Set the fan speed to high.
The vehicle was in an accident Even with the door open, run the 4. Set the temperature control to a
that may have damaged the engine only long enough to move the comfortable setting.
underside. vehicle out of the garage.

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Safety Labels

These labels are in the locations SUN VISOR


shown. They warn you of potential U.S. models Canadian models
hazards that could cause serious
injury. Read these labels carefully.

If a label comes off or becomes hard


to read (except for the U.S.
dashboard label which may be
removed by the owner), contact your BATTERY
dealer for a replacement.
DASHBOARD
U.S. models only

U.S. models

RADIATOR
HOOD
Canadian models

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Main Menu

Instruments and Controls

This section gives information about Control Locations ............................ 44 Trunk................................................. 65


the controls and displays that Instrument Panel ............................. 45 Emergency Trunk Opener ......... 66
contribute to the daily operation of Instrument Panel Indicators ........... 46 Remote Transmitter ........................ 67
your vehicle. All the essential Gauges .............................................. 53 Seats .................................................. 69
controls are within easy reach. Odometer ...................................... 53 Power Windows ............................... 70
Trip meter..................................... 53 Convertible Top ............................... 72

Instruments and Controls


Select Button ................................ 53 Removable Hardtop......................... 78
Fuel Gauge ................................... 54 Mirrors .............................................. 87
Check Fuel Cap Message ........... 54 Parking Brake .................................. 88
Temperature Gauge .................... 55 Interior Convenience Items ............ 89
Outside Temperature Beverage Holder .......................... 90
Indicator .................................... 55 Accessory Power Socket ............ 90
Maintenance Minder ................... 56 Console Compartments .............. 91
Clock ............................................. 56 Audio Panel .................................. 91
Controls Near the Steering Dashboard Lower Pocket ........... 92
Wheel ............................................ 57 Interior Light .................................... 92
Windshield Wipers and
Washers ........................................ 58
Turn Signal and Headlights............ 59
Instrument Panel Brightness ......... 60
Hazard Warning Button .................. 60
Rear Window Defogger .................. 61
Keys and Locks ................................ 62
Immobilizer System......................... 63
Ignition Switch ................................. 64
Power Door Locks ........................... 65

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Control Locations

HEATING/COOLING* CONTROLS
(P.96, 100)
HOOD RELEASE HANDLE
(P.130)
CRUISE CONTROL
BUTTONS
(P.124)
POWER DOOR
LOCK AUDIO SYSTEM*
(P.65) (P.104)

POWER WINDOW PARKING BRAKE


SWITCHES (P.88)
(P.70)
HAZARD WARNING
BUTTON
(P.60)
MIRROR
CONTROLS
(P.87)

MANUAL
TRANSMISSION ROOF SWITCH* ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON
(P.147) (P.73) (P.90) (P.61)
U.S. S2000 model is shown.

* : If equipped.

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Instrument Panel

TURN SIGNAL AND HAZARD WARNING OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE INDICATOR (P.55)


INDICATORS (P.48)
MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR (P.50)
VSA ACTIVATION INDICATOR
(P.50) INFORMATION DISPLAY (P.53, 161)
VEHICLE STABILITY PEAK POWER INDICATOR*2 (P.52)

Instruments and Controls


ASSIST (VSA) SYSTEM HIGH BEAM INDICATOR (P.49)
INDICATOR
(P.50) TPMS INDICATOR (P.51)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE
SYSTEM (ABS)
INDICATOR LOW TIRE PRESSURE
(P.47) INDICATOR (P.51)
ELECTRIC LOW FUEL
POWER INDICATOR (P.49)
STEERING (EPS) DAYTIME RUNNING
INDICATOR LIGHTS INDICATOR
(P.48) (P.48)
DOOR-OPEN INDICATOR (P.47)
SEAT BELT REMINDER
INDICATOR TRUNK-OPEN INDICATOR (P.47)
(P.46) PARKING BRAKE AND IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR (P.49)
BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*1 CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR (P.47)
(P.46, 220)
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (P.47, 219)
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR (P.46, 218)
INDICATOR (P.47) CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR (P.46, 218)

*1 : The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian models are noted in the text.
*2 : Only on CR models. CR models are not available in Canada.
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Instrument Panel Indicators

The instrument panel has many If your passenger does not fasten U.S. Canada Parking Brake and
indicators to give you important their seat belt, the indicator comes Brake System
information about your vehicle. on about 6 seconds after the ignition Indicator
switch is turned to the ON (II) This indicator has two functions:
Seat Belt Reminder position.
Indicator 1. It comes on when you turn the
This indicator comes on when you If either of you do not fasten your ignition switch to the ON (II)
turn the ignition switch to the ON seat belt while driving, the beeper position. It is a reminder to check
(II) position. It reminds you and your will sound and the indicator will flash the parking brake. A beeper
passenger to fasten your seat belts. again at regular intervals. For more sounds if you drive with the
A beeper also sounds if you and your information, see page 16 . parking brake not fully released.
passenger have not fastened your Driving with the parking brake not
seat belts. Low Oil Pressure fully released can damage the
Indicator brakes and tires.
If you turn the ignition switch to the The engine can be severely damaged
ON (II) position before fastening if this indicator flashes or stays on 2. If it stays on after you have fully
your seat belts, the beeper sounds, when the engine is running. For released the parking brake while
and the indicator flashes. If you do more information, see page 218 . the engine is running, or if it
not fasten your seat belts before the comes on while driving, there
beeper stops, the indicator stops Charging System could be a problem with the brake
flashing but remains on. Indicator system. For more information, see
If this indicator comes on when the page 220 .
engine is running, the battery is not
being charged. For more information,
see page 218 .

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Instrument Panel Indicators

Supplemental Restraint Anti-lock Brake System Malfunction Indicator


System Indicator (ABS) Indicator Lamp
This indicator comes on briefly when This indicator normally comes on for See page 219 .
you turn the ignition switch to the a few seconds when you turn the
ON (II) position. If it comes on at ignition switch to the ON (II) Trunk-open Indicator
any other time, it indicates a position, and when you push the

Instruments and Controls


potential problem with your airbags. START button. If it comes on at any This indicator comes on if the trunk
This indicator will also alert you to a other time, there is a problem with lid is not closed tightly.
potential problem with your the ABS. If this happens, have your
automatic seat belt tensioners, vehicle checked at a dealer. With Door-open Indicator
driver’s seat position sensor, or the this indicator on, your vehicle still
passenger’s seat weight sensors. For has normal braking ability but no This indicator comes on if either
more information, see page 25 . anti-lock function. For more door is not closed tightly.
information, see page 150 .
Cruise Control Indicator

This indicator comes on when you


set the cruise control. See page
124 for information on operating the
cruise control.

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Instrument Panel Indicators

Electric Power Steering Driving with the power steering ‘‘Daytime Running
(EPS) Indicator system continuously overheating can Lights’’ Indicator
This indicator normally comes on cause system damage. If this indicator comes on when the
when you turn the ignition to the ON ignition switch is turned to the ON
(II) position and goes off after the Turn Signal and (II) position and the parking brake is
engine starts. If it comes on at any Hazard Warning released, it means there is a problem
other time, there is a problem in the Indicators in the high beam headlight’s circuit.
electric power steering system. If The left or right turn signal indicator Have your vehicle checked by your
this happens, stop the vehicle in a blinks when you signal a lane change dealer.
safe place and turn off the engine. or turn. If the indicator does not
Reset the system by restarting the blink or blinks rapidly, it usually
engine. The indicator will not turn means one of the turn signal bulbs is
off immediately. If it does not go off burned out (see page 181 ). Replace
after driving a short distance, or the bulb as soon as possible, since
comes on again while driving, take other drivers cannot see that you are
the vehicle to your dealer to have it signaling.
checked. With the indicator on, the
EPS may be turned off, making the When you press the hazard warning
vehicle harder to steer. button, both turn signal indicators
blink. All turn signals on the outside
If the power steering system of the vehicle should flash.
overheats while driving, the assist is
reduced and steering may feel
slightly harder.

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Instrument Panel Indicators

High Beam Indicator Immobilizer System Low Fuel Indicator


Indicator
This indicator comes on with the This indicator comes on for a few This indicator comes on as a
high beam headlights. For more seconds when you turn the ignition reminder that you must refuel soon.
information, see page 59 . switch to the ON (II) position. It will
then go off if you have inserted a When the indicator comes on, there

Instruments and Controls


When the daytime running lights properly-coded ignition key. If it is is about 2.22 US gal (8.4 ) of fuel
(DRL) are on, this indicator comes not a properly-coded key, the remaining in the tank before the
on with reduced brightness. indicator will blink, and the engine reading reaches E. There is a small
will not start (see page 63 ). reserve of fuel remaining in the tank
when the reading does reach E.
This indicator also blinks several
times when you turn the ignition
switch from the ON (II) position to
the ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0)
position.

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Instrument Panel Indicators

Vehicle Stability Assist VSA Activation Indicator Maintenance Minder


(VSA) System Indicator Indicator
This indicator normally comes on for This indicator has three functions: This indicator reminds you that it is
a few seconds when you turn the time to take your vehicle in for
ignition switch to the ON (II) 1. It comes on as a reminder that you scheduled maintenance. The
position. have turned off the vehicle maintenance main items and sub
stability assist (VSA) system. items will be displayed in the
If it comes on and stays on at any information display. See page 161 for
other time, or if it does not come on 2. It flashes when VSA is active (see more information on the
when you turn the ignition switch to page 152 ). maintenance minder.
the ON (II) position, there is a
problem with the VSA system. Take 3. It comes on along with the VSA This indicator goes off when your
your vehicle to a dealer to have it system indicator if there is a dealer resets it after completing the
checked. Without VSA, your vehicle problem with the VSA system. required maintenance service.
still has normal driving ability, but
will not have VSA traction and This indicator normally comes on for
stability enhancement. See page a few seconds when you turn the
152 for more information on the ignition switch to the ON (II)
VSA system. position. For more information, see
page 152 .

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Instrument Panel Indicators

Low Tire Pressure CR models Tire Pressure Monitoring


Indicator If this happens, pull to the side of the System (TPMS) Indicator
This indicator normally comes on for road when it is safe, check which tire This indicator normally comes on for
a few seconds when you turn the has lost the pressure, and determine a few seconds when you turn the
ignition to the ON (II) position. the cause. If it is because of a flat tire, ignition switch to the ON (II)
If it comes on while driving, it repair the flat tire with the tire repair position.

Instruments and Controls


indicates that one or more of your kit (see page 206 ), and have the flat
vehicle’s tires are extremely low on tire repaired as soon as possible. If If this indicator comes on and stays
pressure. two or more tires are underinflated, on at any other time, or if it does not
call a professional towing service come on when you turn the ignition
Except CR models (see page 228 ). Refer to page switch to the ON (II) position, there
If this happens, pull to the side of the 154 for more information. is a problem with the TPMS. With
road when it is safe, check which tire this indicator on, the low tire
has lost the pressure, and determine pressure indicator will not come on
the cause. If it is because of a flat tire, when a tire loses pressure. Take the
replace the flat tire with the compact vehicle to your dealer to have the
spare (see page 201 ), and have the system checked.
flat tire repaired as soon as possible.
If two or more tires are underinflated,
call a professional towing service
(see page 228 ). Refer to page
154 for more information.

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Instrument Panel Indicators

Peak Power Indicator When the tachometer reading


reaches the red zone, this
PEAK POWER indicator goes out and the red
INDICATOR zone starts flashing.

See page 148 for recommended shift


points.

CR models
This indicator show the rpm range
where peak power occurs.

When it is flashing, engine speed


is approaching the maximum
power range.

When it stays on, the engine speed


is in the maximum power range.

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Gauges

TACHOMETER OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE INDICATOR To reset a trip meter, display it, and
SPEEDOMETER then press and hold the TRIP button
TEMPERATURE GAUGE until you hear a beep and the
CLOCK BUTTON number resets to ‘‘0.0’’.
FUEL GAUGE
Select Button

Instruments and Controls


TRIP BUTTON The select button switches the
speedometer reading between miles
per hour and kilometers per hour. It
also changes the odometer and trip
meters to read in miles or kilometers
− BUTTON + BUTTON CLOCK TRIP METER correspondingly. To change the
ODOMETER/CHECK FUEL CAP INDICATOR SELECT BUTTON readings, push the SELECT button,
and hold it until you hear a beep.
Odometer Trip Meter
The odometer shows the total The trip meter shows the number of
distance your vehicle has been miles or kilometers driven since you
driven. It measures miles in U.S. last reset it.
models and kilometers in Canadian
models. It is illegal under U.S. There are two trip meters: Trip A
federal law and Canadian provincial and Trip B. Switch between these
regulations to disconnect, reset, or displays by pressing the TRIP button
alter the odometer with the intent to repeatedly. Each trip meter works
change the number of miles or independently, so you can keep track
kilometers indicated. of two different distances.

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Gauges

Fuel Gauge Check Fuel Cap Message If the system still detects a leak in
This shows how much fuel you have. Your vehicle’s on board diagnostic the vehicle’s evaporative emissions
It may show slightly more or less system will detect a loose or missing system, the malfunction indicator
than the actual amount. fuel fill cap as an evaporative system lamp (MIL) comes on. If the fuel fill
leak. The first time a leak is detected cap was not already tightened, turn
a ‘‘CHECK FUEL CAP’’ message the engine off, and check or
appears on the information display. retighten the fuel fill cap until it
Avoid driving with an extremely low Turn the engine off, and confirm the clicks at least once. The MIL should
f uel level. Running out of f uel could fuel fill cap is installed. If it is, loosen go off after several days of normal
cause the engine to misf ire, damaging it, then retighten it until it clicks at driving once the cap is tightened or
the catalytic converter. least once. The message should go replaced. If the MIL does not go off,
off after several days of normal have your vehicle inspected by a
driving once you tighten or replace dealer. For more information, see
the fuel fill cap. To scroll to another page 219 .
display, press the trip button. The
‘‘CHECK FUEL CAP’’ message will
appear each time you restart the
engine until the system turns the
message off.

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Gauges

Temperature Gauge Outside Temperature Indicator NOTE: The temperature must be


This shows the temperature of the This indicator displays the outside stabilized before doing this
engine’s coolant. During normal temperature in Fahrenheit (U.S. procedure.
operation, the reading should be in models) or Centigrade (Canadian
the middle of the gauge. In severe models). To adjust the outside temperature
driving conditions, such as very hot indicator, make sure the outside

Instruments and Controls


weather or a long period of uphill The temperature sensor is in the temperature indicator is shown in
driving, the reading may reach near front bumper. Therefore, the the display, then press and hold the
the red mark. If it reaches the red temperature reading can be affected TRIP button for 10 seconds (the
(Hot) mark, pull safely to the side of by heat reflection from the road TRIP A or B is also reset). The
the road. See page 215 for surface, engine heat, and the following sequence will appear for 1
instructions and precautions on exhaust from surrounding traffic. second each: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, −5, −4,
checking the engine’s cooling This can cause an incorrect −3, −2, −1, 0 (U.S.) or 0, 1, 2, 3,
system. temperature reading when your −3, −2, −1, 0 (Canada).
speed is under 19 mph (30 km/h).
When it reaches the desired value,
The sensor delays the indicator release the TRIP button. You should
update until it reaches the correct see the new outside temperature
outside temperature. This may take displayed.
several minutes.
In certain weather conditions,
If the outside temperature is temperature readings near freezing
incorrectly displayed, you can adjust (32°F, 0°C) could mean that ice is
it up to ±5°F in U.S. models (±3°C forming on the road surface.
in Canadian models) warmer or
cooler.

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Gauges

Maintenance Minder Clock 4. When you finish your adjustments,


The information display in the The clock displays the time with the press the CLOCK button again.
instrument panel shows you the ignition switch in the ON (II)
engine oil life and maintenance position.
service items when the ignition
switch is in the ON (II) position. This To set the clock:
information helps to keep you aware
of the periodic maintenance your 1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
vehicle needs for continued trouble- (II) position.
free driving. Refer to page 161 for
more information. 2. Press and hold the CLOCK button
until the minute display blinks.
Adjust the minute by pressing the
+ or − button.

3. When you finish the minute


adjustment, press and release the
CLOCK button. The hour display
will blink. Adjust the hour by
pressing the + or − button.

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Controls Near the Steering Wheel

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS CLOCK BUTTON INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS


(P.59) (P.56) (P.60)
VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST (VSA)
REMOTE AUDIO SYSTEM OFF SWITCH
CONTROLS*2 (P.153)

Instruments and Controls


(P.122)

ENGINE START BUTTON


(P.146)
HEATING/COOLING*2
CONTROLS
(P.96, 100)

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS
HOOD RELEASE (P.58)
HANDLE
(P.130)

CRUISE BUTTON CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS


(P.124) HORN* (P.124)

*1 : To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.
*2 : If equipped.
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Windshield Wipers and Washers

Push the right lever up or down to Windshield Washers − Pull the


select a position. wiper control lever toward you, and
hold it. The washers spray until you
MIST − The wipers run at high release the lever. The wipers run at
speed until you release the lever. low speed, then complete one more
sweep after you release the lever.
OFF − The wipers are not activated.

INT − The wipers operate every


few seconds. In low speed and high
speed, the wipers run continuously.

LO − The wipers run at low speed.


1. MIST
2. OFF HI − The wipers run at high speed.
3. INT − Intermittent
4. LO − Low speed
5. HI − High speed
6. Windshield washers

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Turn Signals and Headlights

Turn Signal − Push down on the High Beams − Push the lever
lever to signal a left turn and up to forward until you hear a click. The
signal a right turn. To signal a lane high beam indicator will come on
change, push lightly on the lever, (see page 49 ). Pull the lever back to
and hold it. The lever will return to return to the low beams.
center when you release it or

Instruments and Controls


complete a turn. To flash the high beams, pull the
lever back lightly, then release it.
Headlights On − Turning the The high beams will stay on as long
switch to the ‘‘ ’’ position turns as you hold the lever back.
on the parking lights, taillights,
instrument panel lights, side-marker Daytime Running Lights
lights, and rear license plate lights. With the headlight switch off, the
1. Turn Signal high beam headlights and the high
2. Off Turning the switch to the ‘‘ ’’ beam indicator come on with
3. Parking and indicator lights position turns on the headlights. If reduced brightness when you turn
4. Headlights on you leave the lights on with the key the ignition switch to the ON (II)
5. High beams removed from the ignition switch, position and release the parking
6. Flash high beams you will hear a reminder buzzer brake. They remain on until you turn
when you open the driver’s door. the ignition switch off, even if you
set the parking brake.

The headlights revert to normal


operation when you turn them on
with the switch.

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Instrument Panel Brightness, Hazard Warning Button

Instrument Panel Brightness To reduce glare at night, the Hazard Warning Button
instrument panel illumination dims
when you turn the light switch to the
or position.
Adjust the brightness to the desired
level with the headlight switch off,
and also with the headlight switch on.
Both settings will remain at those
levels until you change them.

With the headlight switch on, you


can switch the display to full daytime
brightness by pushing and holding
the + button. Push the − button to
The buttons in the lower left corner return the display to the original Push the red button next to the
of the instrument panel adjust the brightness. parking brake to turn on the hazard
brightness of the display in five steps. warning lights (four-way flashers).
Push the + or − button five times This causes all four outside turn
to see the full range. signals and both indicators in the
instrument panel to flash. Use the
hazard warning lights if you need to
park in a dangerous area near heavy
traffic, or if your vehicle is disabled.

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Rear Window Defogger

Do not push the defogger button


when the convertible top is folded.

Make sure the rear window is clear


and you have good visibility before
starting to drive.

Instruments and Controls


The defogger wires on the inside of
the rear window can be accidentally
damaged. When cleaning the glass,
always wipe side-to-side.

The rear window defogger will clear


fog, frost, and thin ice from the
window. Push the defogger button to
turn it on and off. The indicator in
the button comes on to show the
defogger is on. If you do not turn it
off, the defogger will shut itself off
after about 15 minutes. It also shuts
off when you turn off the ignition
switch. You have to turn the
defogger on again when you restart
the vehicle.

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Keys and Locks

The valet key works only in the These keys contain electronic
MASTER KEYS VALET KEY KEY ignition and the door locks. You can circuits that are activated by the
(BLACK) (GREY) NUMBER
TAG keep the trunk and the lower console immobilizer system. They will not
compartment locked when you leave work to start the engine if the
your vehicle and the valet key at a circuits are damaged.
parking facility.
Protect the keys from direct
You should have received a key sunlight, high temperature, and
number tag with your keys. You will high humidity.
need this key number if you ever
have to get a key replaced. Use only Do not drop the keys or set heavy
Honda-approved key blanks. objects on them.

The master key fits all the locks on Keep the keys away from liquids.
your vehicle. If they get wet, dry them
immediately with a soft cloth.

The keys do not contain batteries.


Do not try to take them apart.

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Immobilizer System

The immobilizer system protects If the system repeatedly does not As required by the FCC:
your vehicle from theft. If an recognize the coding of your key, This device complies with Part 15 of the
improperly-coded key (or other contact your dealer. FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
device) is used, the engine’s fuel following two conditions: (1) This device
system is disabled. Do not attempt to alter this system may not cause harmful interference, and
or add other devices to it. Electrical (2) this device must accept any

Instruments and Controls


When you turn the ignition switch to problems could result that may make interference received, including
the ON (II) position, the immobilizer your vehicle undrivable. interference that may cause undesired
system indicator should come on for operation.
a few seconds, then go off. If the If you lose your key and cannot start
indicator starts to blink, it means the the engine, contact your dealer. Changes or modifications not expressly
system does not recognize the approved by the party responsible for
coding of the key. Turn the ignition compliance could void the user’s
switch to the LOCK (0) position, authority to operate the equipment.
remove the key, reinsert it, and turn Always take the ignition key with you
the ignition switch to the ON (II) whenever you leave the vehicle alone. This device complies with Industry
position again. Canada Standard RSS-210.
The system may not recognize your Operation is subject to the following two
key’s coding if another immobilizer conditions: (1) this device may not cause
key or other metal object (i.e. key interference, and (2) this device must
fob) is near the ignition switch when accept any interference that may cause
you insert the key. undesired operation of the device.

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Ignition Switch

ACCESSORY (I) − You can


operate the audio system and the
accessory power socket in this Removing the key from the
position. ignition switch while driving
locks the steering. This can
ON (II) − This is the normal key cause you to lose control of the
position when driving. Several of the vehicle.
indicators on the instrument panel
come on as a test when you turn the Remove the key from the
ignition switch from the ignition switch only when
ACCESSORY (I) to the ON (II) parked.
position.
The engine can be started with the
The ignition switch has three key in this position by pressing the
positions: LOCK (0), ACCESSORY engine START button (see page
(I), and ON (II). 146 ).

LOCK (0) − You can insert or You will hear a reminder beeper if
remove the key only in this position. you leave the key in the ignition
To turn the key, push it in slightly. switch in the LOCK (0) or the
ACCESSORY (I) position and open
If the front wheels are turned, the the driver’s door. Remove the key to
anti-theft lock may make it difficult turn off the beeper.
to turn the key. Firmly turn the
steering wheel to the left or right as
you turn the key.

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Power Door Locks, Trunk

Power Door Locks To lock the passenger’s door when Trunk


getting out of the vehicle, push the
LOCK TAB lock tab in and close the door. To
lock the driver’s door, remove the
key from the ignition switch, pull out
either the inside or outside door

Instruments and Controls


handle and push the lock tab in, then Push
close the door.

Both doors lock when you use the


key in the driver’s door. Using the
key in the passenger’s door only
locks and unlocks that door. TRUNK RELEASE BUTTON
To unlock only the driver’s door
Each door has a lock tab next to the from the outside, insert the key in To open the trunk, press the trunk
inside door handle. When you push the driver’s door lock, turn the key release button in the lower console
in the lock tab on the driver’s door, and release it. If you turn the key compartment. To protect items in
both doors lock. Pulling out the lock and hold it, both doors will unlock. the trunk when you need to give the
tab on the driver’s door only unlocks key to someone else, lock the lower
that door. The lock tab on the console compartment with the
passenger’s door only locks and master key, and give the other
unlocks that door. person the valet key.

To close the trunk, press down on


the trunk lid.
CONTINUED

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Trunk

Keep the trunk lid closed at all times Emergency Trunk Opener
while driving to avoid damaging the
lid, and to prevent exhaust gas from
getting into the interior. See Carbon
Monoxide Hazard on page 41 .

MASTER KEY

You can also use the master key to As a safety feature, your vehicle has
open the trunk lock. a release lever on the trunk latch so
the trunk can be opened from the
To open the trunk with the remote inside. To open the trunk, push the
transmitter, press and hold the release lever to the left.
TRUNK RELEASE button for about
1 second (see page 67 ). Parents should decide if their
children should be shown how to use
this feature. For more information
about child safety, see page 32 .

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Remote Transmitter

switch is in the center position) will lights will flash for about 30 seconds.
LED LOCK come on when you press the To cancel panic mode, press any
BUTTON UNLOCK button. If you do not open other button on the remote
either door within 30 seconds, the transmitter, or turn the ignition
TRUNK light goes out. If you relock the switch to the ON (II) position.
RELEASE doors with the remote transmitter

Instruments and Controls


BUTTON before 30 seconds have elapsed, the Remote Transmitter Care
light will go off immediately. Avoid dropping or throwing the
UNLOCK PANIC transmitter.
BUTTON BUTTON If you do not open either door within
30 seconds, the doors automatically Protect the transmitter from
relock. extreme temperature.

LOCK − Press this button once to You cannot lock or unlock the doors Do not immerse the transmitter in
lock both doors. Some exterior lights with the remote transmitter if either any liquid.
will flash. When you push LOCK door is not fully closed or the key is
twice within 5 seconds, you will hear in the ignition switch. If you lose a transmitter, the
a beep to verify that the doors are replacement needs to be
locked. TRUNK − Press this button for reprogrammed by your dealer.
about 1 second to open the trunk.
UNLOCK − Press this button once You cannot open the trunk if the key
to unlock the driver’s door. Push it is in the ignition switch.
twice to also unlock the passenger’s
door. PANIC − Press this button for
about 1 second to attract attention;
The interior light (if the interior light the horn will sound and the exterior

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Remote Transmitter

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

An improperly disposed of battery Changes or modifications not expressly


can hurt the environment. approved by the party responsible for
Always confirm local regulations for compliance could void the user’s
battery disposal. authority to operate the equipment.

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


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

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Seats

See pages 10 − 12 for important safety


information and warnings about how to
properly position the seats and seat-
backs.

Make all seat adjustments before

Instruments and Controls


you start driving.

To adjust the seat forward and To change the seat-back angle, pull
backward, pull up on the lever under up on the lever on the outside of the
the seat cushion’s front edge. Then seat bottom.
try to move the seat to make sure it
is locked in position.

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Power Windows

Turn the ignition switch to the ON DRIVER’S WINDOW SWITCH


(II) position to raise or lower either
window. To open a window, push the Closing a power window on
switch down and hold it. Release the someone’s hands or fingers can
switch when you want the window to cause serious injury.
stop. Pull back on the switch and
hold it to close the window. MAIN Make sure your passenger is
SWITCH away from the window before
closing it.

PASSENGER’S WINDOW SWITCH

The driver’s armrest has a master


power window control panel. To
open the passenger’s window, push
down on the switch and hold it until
the window reaches the desired
position. To close the window, pull
back on the window switch. Release
the switch when the window gets to
the position you want.

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Power Windows

The master control panel also con- If the MAIN switch is OFF, the
tains these extra features: passenger’s window cannot be raised
or lowered. Keep the MAIN switch
AUTO − To open the driver’s off when you have a child in the
window fully, push the window vehicle so the child does not get
switch firmly down to the second injured by operating the window

Instruments and Controls


detent, and release it. The window unintentionally.
automatically goes all the way down.
To stop the window, pull back on the
window switch briefly.

To open the driver’s window only


partially, push the window switch
down lightly and hold it. The window
will stop as soon as you release the
switch.

The AUTO function only works to


lower the driver’s window. To raise
the window, you must pull back on
the window switch and hold it until
the window reaches the desired
position.

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Convertible Top

Except CR models Lowering the Convertible Top LATCH TAB


The convertible top on your vehicle Before operating the convertible top,
lowers and raises electrically. make sure the vehicle is parked on
level ground, the rear defogger is off,
It is advisable to raise the top and there is enough clearance above
whenever you park the vehicle. This the top.
helps to protect the vehicle from
unexpected weather changes, and 1. Apply the parking brake. The
from theft of your valuables. convertible top will not operate
unless the parking brake is fully
engaged.
LOCKING LEVER
Do not operate the convertible top in 2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
f reezing weather. You can damage (II) position. 3. There is a latch on each side. Push
the material and the mechanism. in the tabs, and pull the locking
Do not operate the top if it is wet, levers down.
dirty, or covered with ice or snow.
Never drive the vehicle with the
convertible top half open.
Do not operate the convertible top if
the vehicle is on a jack, a hoist, or on
jack stands.
Park your vehicle in the shade
whenever possible. Extended
exposure to sunlight can cause the
convertible top to deteriorate.

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Convertible Top

Operating the convertible top


while any part of a passenger is
in the way of the convertible top
can cause serious injury.

Instruments and Controls


Make sure that you, your
passenger, or any other people
around the vehicle are clear of
the moving convertible top.
LOCKING LEVER ROOF SWITCH

4. With the latches released, push 5. Pull back and hold the ROOF
the locking levers up until they switch. The windows lower and
latch. the roof folds back. Release the
ROOF switch when the roof is
retracted completely into the rear
shelf.

Do not sit on the f olded convertible top,


or place any items on top of it. You
could damage the top or the rear
window.

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Convertible Top

Convertible Top Cover


Use the convertible top cover when SNAPS
the top is folded to help prevent
foreign objects, dirt, etc., from
getting into the material and the
mechanism.
PIN
The cover is attached to the body
with four snaps: two behind the roll
bars, and one on the side of each
seat. To install or remove the SNAP
convertible top cover correctly, do
this:
1. Remove the convertible top cover 2. Hold the cover in place with its
from the trunk, and lay it into snap on the driver’s side of the roll
position behind the roll bar. bar aligned with the pin on the roll
bar. Press on both sides of the
snap to attach it to the pin. Do not
push or pull the snap button when
installing the snap.

3. Align the snap on the passenger’s


side of the roll bar with the pin.
Press on both sides of the snap to
attach it to the pin.

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Convertible Top

FASTENER Wind Deflector


STRAP
WIND DEFLECTOR

Instruments and Controls


PIN

SNAP

4. Pull down the strap on the 6. Fit the rear of the cover into the
passenger’s side of the cover, and space between the convertible top On all models
align its snap with the pin on the and its molding. The wind deflector keeps the wind
trim panel behind the door. Press out while driving with the
on both sides of the snap to attach 7. To remove the cover, reverse the convertible top folded or the
it to the pin. procedure. removable hardtop removed (see
page 78 ). To use the deflector, lift
5. Pull down the strap on the driver’s it up forward.
side of the cover, and align its
snap with the pin on the trim panel
behind the door. Press on both
sides of the snap to attach it to the
pin.

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Convertible Top

Raising the Convertible Top TAB LATCH 6. Push the locking levers up while
holding the tab. When the latch is
1. Apply the parking brake. The in place, release the tab. Make
convertible top will not operate sure the convertible top is securely
unless the parking brake is fully latched.
engaged.

2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON


(II) position. Operating the convertible top
while any part of a passenger is
3. Push the ROOF switch forward in the way of the convertible top
and hold it. The windows, if raised, LOCKING LEVER can cause serious injury.
will lower automatically.
4. Push in the tab to release the Make sure that you, your
The convertible top will rise. locking levers, and pull them down. passenger, or any other people
Release the ROOF switch when Note the movement of the latch around the vehicle are clear of
the top reaches the windshield when you push in the tab. the moving convertible top.
header.
5. While holding the lever down,
push in the tab to engage the latch
in the windshield header. Pull the
top down and forward if necessary.

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Convertible Top

Maintenance To reduce the possibility of leaks:


Dust is the main cause of creaks or Do not lean or sit on an open door.
Do not put any heavy items on the other sounds coming from the
f olded convertible top. You could convertible top. Do not push or pull the door glass
damage the material and the to open and close the door.
mechanism. Regularly clean the body seals with

Instruments and Controls


glass cleaner and a soft cloth. Do not The convertible top seals are
use a scraper or de-icing chemicals designed to promote the flow of
to remove frost, snow, or ice from water off the roof. Spraying high-
the top or the rear window. pressure water directly on the
seals can distort them, causing a
Every 3 to 6 months, depending on leak. Use only a low-pressure
how often the top is folded, rub a water stream when using a hose,
thin film of Shin-Etsu Silicon Grease and avoid commercial car washes.
(available from your dealer, P/N
08798-9013) onto the seals wherever
they touch the convertible top or
each other.

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Removable Hardtop

CR models
Because of the size and weight of
the removable hardtop, it is
recommended that you have
someone help you remove and install
it.

Clean and dry the hardtop before


removing it. Store it in your garage
or other protected area, and do not
stack items on top of it.

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Removable Hardtop

Installation
1. Make sure the vehicle is parked LID BOLT
BOLT
on level ground, and that you have
adequate clearance above the
vehicle.

Instruments and Controls


2. Loosen the bolt of the rear cover 3. Pull the bolt out until it stops
lid with a flat-tipped screwdriver. against the lid.

CONTINUED

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Removable Hardtop

BOLT
LID

LOCKING
LEVER

4. Hold the bolt and lid, and remove 8. Make sure the front locking levers 9. Make sure the handles for the side
the lid by pulling them up together are closed. lock pins are pivoted forward to
as shown in the illustration above. the first stop.
However, do not pull the handle all
5. Repeat the procedure for the lid the way forward (touching the
on the other side. inside of the top).

6. Keep the lids in the trunk safely.

7. Move the seats forward.

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Removable Hardtop

TAB LATCH LOCK ROD REAR WINDOW


DEFOGGER WIRE

Instruments and Controls


POSITIONING HOLE LOCKING LEVER

10.Carefully set the removable 11.Push in the tab on each locking 14.Pivot the lock rods backward to
hardtop on the vehicle, making lever and pull the locking lever lock down the sides of the hardtop.
sure the lock rods go into the down. Make sure the rear window
positioning holes behind each door. defogger wire is set under the lock
Be careful not to pinch your 12.Push the locking lever forward rod to ensure the wire is not
fingers. and set the latch into the crushed or entangled.
windshield header.

13.Pull back on the locking lever and


Make sure that the lock rods do not push it up until it latches. Make
damage any part of the vehicle, such as sure it is securely latched.
the rear wing spoiler, when you install
or remove the hardtop. CONTINUED

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Removable Hardtop

Make sure the rear window is clear


HARNESS 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.

CAP CONNECTOR CONNECTOR

15.Remove the cap from the rear 16.Plug the harness for the rear
window defogger connector. window defogger (see page 61 )
into the rear connector. Make sure
it locks into the connector.

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Removable Hardtop

Removal
TAB LATCH

Instruments and Controls


TAB

LOCKING LEVER LOCKING LEVER

1. Lower the windows. 3. Push in the tab on each locking 5. With the latches released, pull
lever and pull the locking lever back on the locking levers and
2. Unplug the rear window defogger down. push them up until they latch.
harness from the connector by
squeezing the tab on the harness 4. Push the locking levers forward
plug. Pull on the plug, not the and remove the latches from the
harness. windshield header.

CONTINUED

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Removable Hardtop

8. Install the cap on the rear


defogger connector.
LOCK ROD
9. Take the rear cover lids out from
the trunk.

Make sure that the lock rods do not


damage any part of the vehicle, such as
the rear wing spoiler, when you install
or remove the hardtop.

6. Pivot the lock rods forward to 7. Lift the hardtop straight up off the
release the sides of the hardtop. vehicle and set it aside.

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Removable Hardtop

13.Lift the wind deflector up (see


page 75 ).
BOLT TABS LID LID
BOLT

Instruments and Controls


HOLDERS

10.When reinstalling the rear cover 11.Tighten the bolts securely with
lid, align the tabs to the the flat-tipped screwdriver.
appropriate holders and push the
lid down while holding the bolt out. 12.Repeat the procedure for the lid
on the other side.

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Removable Hardtop

Storing Washing
FRONT SEAL

Support the hardtop during storage Avoid automatic car washes that use
to prevent the front seal from a high pressure spray.
contacting the floor or any other
surface that can deform the rubber.

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Mirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors 4. When you finish, move the


selector switch to the center (off)
TAB SELECTOR SWITCH position. This turns the
adjustment switch off to keep your
settings.

Instruments and Controls


ADJUSTMENT SWITCH
Keep the inside and outside mirrors
clean and adjusted for best visibility. 1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
Be sure to adjust the mirrors before (II) position.
you start driving.
2. Move the selector switch to L
The inside mirror has day and night (driver’s side) or R (passenger’s
positions. The night position reduces side).
glare from headlights behind you.
Flip the tab on the bottom edge of 3. Push the appropriate edge of the
the mirror to select the day or night adjustment switch to move the
position. mirror right, left, up, or down.

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Parking Brake

BUTTON
Driving the vehicle with the parking
brake applied can damage the rear
brakes and axles. A beeper will sound
if the vehicle is driven with the parking
brake on.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

To apply the parking brake, pull the


lever up fully. To release it, pull up
slightly, push the button, and lower
the lever. The parking brake
indicator on the instrument panel
should go out when the parking
brake is fully released (see page 46 ).

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Interior Convenience Items

CONSOLE COMPARTMENT ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET VANITY MIRROR/SUNVISOR

Instruments and Controls


AUDIO PANEL*

DRIVER’S SEAT-BACK POCKET BEVERAGE HOLDER DASHBOARD LOWER POCKET

* : If equipped

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Interior Convenience Items

Beverage Holder Accessory Power Socket

PARTITION

Open the beverage holder by To hold two cups in the beverage This socket is intended to supply
pushing on the tab. The lid will slide holder, flip the partition up. power for 12 volt DC accessories
open. that are rated 120 watts or less (10
Be careful when you are using the amps). It will not power an
beverage holder. A spilled liquid that automotive type cigarette lighter
is very hot can scald you or your element.
passenger. Spilled liquids can also
damage the upholstery, carpeting,
and electrical components in the
interior.

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Interior Convenience Items

Console Compartments Audio Panel


UPPER COMPARTMENT

Instruments and Controls


LOWER COMPARTMENT

The area between the seats has two The lever to open the upper If equipped
compartments. Open the lower compartment is inside the lower To open the audio panel, push on the
compartment by squeezing the compartment. Push up the lever, and top center, and let the panel swing
handle. Close it with a firm push. lift the lid. To close, lower the lid, down. To close, pivot the panel up,
You can lock or unlock the lower and push it down until it latches. and push on it until it latches.
compartment with the master key.

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Interior Convenience Items, Interior Light

Dashboard Lower Pocket Interior Light If the switch is in the center position,
the interior light will come on when
DOOR you remove the key from the ignition
ACTIVATED switch.

SWITCH

The dashboard lower pocket is The interior light has a three-


located next to the audio panel. position switch; ON, Door Activated,
and OFF. In the Door Activated
(center) position, the light comes on
when you:

Open either door.


Unlock the doors with the key or
the remote transmitter.

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Interior Light

Instruments and Controls


When the switch is in the center
position with both doors closed, the
two bulbs in the interior light can
each be turned on and off with the
button next to it.

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Main Menu

Features

The heating and air conditioning Vents, Heating, and A/C ................ 96
system in your vehicle provides a Vents and Heating ......................... 100
comfortable driving environment in Playing the AM/FM Radio ........... 104
all weather conditions. AM/FM Radio Reception ............. 107
Playing the XM Satellite Radio .. 109
The standard audio system has Playing a CD ................................... 114
many features. This section CD Changer.................................... 116
describes those features and how to Protecting Your CDs ..................... 117

Features
use them. (If you have an optional CD Player Error Messages .......... 120
audio system, refer to the operating CD Changer Error Messages ...... 121
instructions that came with it.) Remote Audio Controls................. 122
Radio Theft Protection.................. 123
Your vehicle has an anti-theft audio Cruise Control ................................ 124
system that requires a code number
to enable it.

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Vents, Heating, and A/C

Except S2000 CR model


RECIRCULATION BUTTON

REAR WINDOW
DEFOGGER BUTTON
MODE CONTROL DIAL

AIR CONDITIONING
BUTTON

FAN CONTROL LEVER


TEMPERATURE
CONTROL DIAL

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Vents, Heating, and A/C

Airflow Controls mode). Mode Control Dial


Use the mode control dial to select
Fan Control Lever The outside air intakes for the the vents the air flows from. Some
Push this lever up and down to heating and cooling system are at air will flow from the dashboard
increase or decrease the fan speed the base of the windshield. Keep this vents in all modes.
and airflow. The indicators next to area clear of leaves and other debris.
the lever show you the speed and Air flows from the vents on
airflow selected. The system should be left in fresh both sides of the instrument panel,

Features
air mode under almost all conditions. and from the dashboard vent in front
Temperature Control Dial Keeping the system in recirculation of the passenger.
Turning this dial clockwise increases mode, particularly with the A/C off,
the temperature of the airflow. can cause the windows to fog up. Airflow is divided between
the vents in the dashboard and the
Air Conditioning (A/C) Button Switch to recirculation mode when floor vents.
This button turns the air driving through dusty or smoky
conditioning on and off. The conditions, then return to fresh air Air flows from the center
indicator in the button comes on mode. vents in the dashboard above the
when the A/C is on. audio system, the vents on both
Rear Window Defogger Button sides of the instrument panel, and
Recirculation Button This button turns the rear window from the floor vents. Select this
When the recirculation indicator is defogger off and on (see page 61 ). position when you drive with the
on, air from the vehicle’s interior is convertible top folded.
sent through the system again Do not push the defogger button
(recirculation mode). When the when the convertible top is folded.
indicator is off, air is brought in from
the outside of the vehicle (fresh air CONTINUED

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Vents, Heating, and A/C

Air flows from the floor Ventilation Using the A/C


vents and the vents on both sides of The flow-through ventilation system Air conditioning places an extra load
the instrument panel. draws in outside air, circulates it on the engine. Watch the engine
through the interior, then exhausts it coolant temperature gauge (see page
When you select , the system through vents behind the seat-backs. 55 ). If it moves near the red zone,
automatically switches to fresh air turn off the A/C until the gauge
mode. 1. Set the temperature to the lower reading returns to normal.
limit.
Airflow is divided between 2. Make sure the A/C is off. 1. Set the fan to the desired speed.
the floor vents and the defroster 3. Select and fresh air mode. 2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the
vents at the base of the windshield, 4. Set the fan to the desired speed. button. The indicator in the button
and the vents on both sides of the comes on.
instrument panel. Using the Heater 3. Make sure the temperature is set
The heater uses engine coolant to to maximum cool.
Air flows from the defroster warm the air. If the engine is cold, it 4. Select .
vents at the base of the windshield will be several minutes before you 5. If the outside air is humid, select
and the vents on both sides of the feel warm air coming from the recirculation mode. If the outside
instrument panel. system. air is dry, select fresh air mode.

When you select or , 1. Select and fresh air mode. If the interior is very warm, you can
the system automatically switches to 2. Set the fan to the desired speed. cool it down more rapidly by partially
fresh air mode and turns on the A/C. 3. Adjust the warmth of the air with opening the windows, turning on the
the temperature control dial. A/C, and setting the fan to
maximum speed in fresh air mode.

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Vents, Heating, and A/C

Dehumidify the Interior mode and turns on the A/C. 2. Select .


Air conditioning, as it cools, removes 3. Adjust the temperature so the 3. Set the fan and temperature
moisture from the air. When used in airflow feels warm. controls to the maximum level.
combination with the heater, it 4. Select to help clear the
makes the interior warm and dry and rear window. To clear the windows faster, you can
can prevent the windows from 5. To increase airflow to the close the dashboard corner vents
fogging up. windshield, close the corner vents. and the vents on both sides of the
instrument panel by rotating the

Features
1. Turn the fan on. When you select or , wheel below the vent. This will send
2. Turn on the air conditioning. the system automatically turns on more warm air to the windshield
3. Select and fresh air mode. the A/C. This helps to dehumidify defroster vents. Once the windshield
4. Adjust the temperature to your the air and to defog the windshield. is clear, select fresh air mode to
preference. In either mode, you cannot turn off avoid fogging the windows.
the A/C.
This setting is suitable for all driving For your safety, make sure you have
conditions whenever the outside When you switch to another mode a clear view through all the windows
temperature is above 32°F (0°C). from or , the A/C before driving.
stays on. Press the A/C button to
To Defog and Defrost turn it off. To Turn Everything Off
To remove fog from the inside of the Push the fan control level down until
windows: To Remove Exterior Frost or Ice the indicator goes off. A lack of
From the Windows airflow can cause the windows to fog
1. Set the fan to the desired speed, or up. You should keep the fan on at all
high for faster defrosting. 1. Select . The system times so stale air and moisture do
2. Select . The system automatically switches to fresh air not build up in the interior and cause
automatically switches to fresh air mode and turns on the A/C. fogging.

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Vents and Heating

S2000 CR models
RECIRCULATION BUTTON

REAR WINDOW
DEFOGGER BUTTON
MODE CONTROL DIAL

FAN CONTROL LEVER


TEMPERATURE
CONTROL DIAL

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Vents and Heating

Airflow Controls Recirculation Button Rear Window Defogger Button


When the recirculation indicator is This button turns the rear window
Fan Control Lever on, air from the vehicle’s interior is defogger off and on (see page 61 ).
Push this lever up and down to sent through the system again
increase or decrease the fan speed (recirculation mode). When the Do not push the defogger button
and airflow. The indicators next to indicator is off, air is brought in from when the removable hardtop is
the lever show you the speed and the outside of the vehicle (fresh air removed.
airflow selected. mode).

Features
Mode Control Dial
Temperature Control Dial The outside air intakes for the Use the mode control dial to select
Turning this dial clockwise increases heating system are at the base of the the vents the air flows from. Some
the temperature of the airflow. windshield. Keep this area clear of air will flow from the dashboard
leaves and other debris. vents in all modes.

The system should be left in fresh Air flows from the vents on
air mode under almost all conditions. both sides of the instrument panel,
Keeping the system in recirculation and from the dashboard vent in front
mode, can cause the windows to fog of the passenger.
up.
Airflow is divided between
Switch to recirculation mode when the vents in the dashboard and the
driving through dusty or smoky floor vents.
conditions, then return to fresh air
mode.

CONTINUED

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Vents and Heating

Air flows from the center Ventilation To Defog and Defrost


vents in the dashboard, the vents on The flow-through ventilation system To remove fog from the inside of the
both sides of the instrument panel, draws in outside air, circulates it windows:
and from the floor vents. Select this through the interior, then exhausts it
position when you drive with the through vents behind the seat-backs. 1. Set the fan to the desired speed, or
removable hardtop removed. high for faster defrosting.
1. Set the temperature to the lower 2. Select . The system
Air flows from the floor limit. automatically switches to fresh air
vents and the vents on both sides of 2. Select and fresh air mode. mode.
the instrument panel. 3. Set the fan to the desired speed. 3. Adjust the temperature so the
airflow feels warm.
Airflow is divided between Using the Heater 4. Select to help clear the
the floor vents and the defroster The heater uses engine coolant to rear window.
vents at the base of the windshield, warm the air. If the engine is cold, it 5. To increase airflow to the
and the vents on both sides of the will be several minutes before you windshield, close the corner vents.
instrument panel. feel warm air coming from the
system. When you select or ,
Air flows from the defroster the system automatically turns on
vents at the base of the windshield 1. Select and fresh air mode. the fresh air mode. This helps to
and the vents on both sides of the 2. Set the fan to the desired speed. defog the windshield.
instrument panel. 3. Adjust the warmth of the air with
the temperature control dial.
When you select or ,
the system automatically switches to
Fresh Air mode.

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Vents and Heating

To Remove Exterior Frost or Ice To clear the windows faster, you can To Turn Everything Off
From the Windows close the dashboard corner vents Push the fan control level down until
and the vents on both sides of the the indicator goes off. A lack of
1. Select . The system instrument panel by rotating the airflow can cause the windows to fog
automatically switches to fresh air wheel below the vent. This will send up. You should keep the fan on at all
mode. more warm air to the windshield times so stale air and moisture do
2. Select . defroster vents. Once the windshield not build up in the interior and cause
3. Set the fan and temperature is clear, select fresh air mode to fogging.

Features
controls to the maximum level. avoid fogging the windows.

For your safety, make sure you have


a clear view through all the windows
before driving.

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Playing the AM/FM Radio

U.S. models with Audio System Canadian model

AUTO SELECT INDICATOR AUTO SELECT INDICATOR

AM/FM BUTTON STEREO INDICATOR AM/FM BUTTON STEREO INDICATOR

SEEK BAR SCAN INDICATOR SCAN INDICATOR


SCAN BUTTON SCAN BUTTON

TUNE KNOB TUNE KNOB


PRESET BUTTONS PRESET BUTTONS

PWR/VOL KNOB AUTO SELECT BUTTON SEEK BAR AUTO SELECT BUTTON

PWR/VOL KNOB

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Playing the AM/FM Radio

To Play the Radio lower frequency. PRESET − Each preset button


The ignition switch must be in the (1−6) can store one station on AM,
ACCESSORY (I) or the ON (II) SEEK − The seek function and two stations on FM.
position. Turn the system on by searches up and down from the
pushing the PWR/VOL knob or the current frequency to find a station 1. Select the desired band, AM or
AM/FM button. Adjust the volume with a strong signal. To activate it, FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store
by turning the same knob. press the or side of the twelve stations.
bar, then release it.

Features
The band and frequency that the 2. Use the tune, seek, or scan
radio was last tuned to is displayed. SCAN − The scan function samples function to tune the radio to a
To change bands, press the AM/FM all stations with strong signals on the desired station.
button. On the FM band, ST will be selected band. To activate it, press
displayed if the station is broadcast- the SCAN button, then release it. 3. Pick a preset number (1−6), and
ing in stereo. Stereo reproduction in You will see SCAN in the display. hold it until you hear a beep.
AM is not available. The system will scan for a station
with a strong signal. When it finds 4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 to store a
To Select a Station one, it will stop and play that station total of six stations on AM and
You can use any of five methods to for about 5 seconds. twelve stations on FM.
find radio stations on the selected
band: tune, seek, scan, the preset If you do nothing, the system will The preset frequencies may be lost if
buttons, and auto select. scan for the next strong station and your vehicle’s battery goes dead, is
play it for 5 seconds. When it plays a disconnected, or the radio fuse is
TUNE − Use the TUNE knob to station you want to listen to, press removed.
tune the radio to a desired frequency. the SCAN button again.
Turn the knob right to tune to a
higher frequency, or left to tune to a CONTINUED

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Playing the AM/FM Radio

AUTO SELECT − If you are To turn off auto select, press the Turn the knob to adjust the setting.
traveling far from home and can no A. SEL (auto select) button. This When the level reaches the center,
longer receive your preset stations, restores the presets you originally you will see a ‘‘C’’ in the display. The
you can use the auto select feature to set. system will return to the audio
find stations in the local area. display in about 5 seconds.
Adjusting the Sound
Press the A. SEL button. ‘‘A. SEL’’ Press the SOUND/MODE (TUNE) Audio System Lighting
flashes in the display, and the system knob repeatedly to display the bass You can use the instrument panel
goes into scan mode for several (BAS), treble (TRE), fader (FAD), brightness control buttons to adjust
seconds. It stores the frequencies of and balance (BAL) setting. the illumination of the audio system
six AM and twelve FM stations in (see page 60 ). The audio system
the preset buttons. BAL − Adjusts the balance, or side- illuminates when the parking lights
to-side strength of the sound. are on, even if the radio is off.
You will see a ‘‘0’’ displayed after
pressing a preset button if auto FAD − Adjusts the fader, or the
select cannot find a strong station for front-to-back strength of the sound.
that preset button.
TRE − Adjusts the treble in the
If you do not like the stations auto sound.
select has stored, you can store
other frequencies on the preset BAS − Adjusts the bass in the
buttons as previously described. sound.

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AM/FM Radio Reception

Radio Frequencies Radio Reception


The radio can receive the complete How well the radio receives stations
AM and FM bands. is dependent on many factors, such
Those bands cover these frequen- as the distance from the station’s
cies: transmitter, nearby large objects,
and atmospheric conditions.
AM band: 530 to 1,710 kHz
FM band: 87.7 to 107.9 MHz A radio station’s signal gets weaker

Features
as you get farther away from its
Radio stations on the AM band are transmitter. If you are listening to an
assigned frequencies at least 10 kHz AM station, you will notice the sound
apart (530, 540, 550). Stations on the volume becoming weaker, and the
FM band are assigned frequencies at station drifting in and out. If you are
least 0.2 MHz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3). listening to an FM station, you will Driving very near the transmitter of
see the stereo indicator flickering off a station that is broadcasting on a
Stations must use these exact and on as the signal weakens. frequency close to the frequency of
frequencies. It is fairly common for Eventually, the stereo indicator will the station you are listening to can
stations to round-off the frequency in go off and the sound will fade also affect your radio’s reception.
their advertising, so your radio could completely as you get out of range of You may temporarily hear both
display a frequency of 100.9 even the station’s signal. stations, or hear only the station you
though the announcer may identify are close to.
the station as ‘‘FM101.’’

CONTINUED

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AM/FM Radio Reception

As required by the FCC:


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

Radio signals, especially on the FM Radio reception can be affected by


band, are deflected by large objects atmospheric conditions such as
such as buildings and hills. Your thunderstorms, high humidity, and
radio then receives both the direct even sunspots. You may be able to
signal from the station’s transmitter, receive a distant radio station one
and the deflected signal. This causes day and not receive it the next day
the sound to distort or flutter. This is because of a change in conditions.
a main cause of poor radio reception
in city driving. Electrical interference from passing
vehicles and stationary sources can
cause temporary reception problems.

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Playing the XM Satellite Radio (Optional on U.S. Models)

Optional on U.S. models


Not available on Canadian models
Your vehicle is capable of receiving
XM Satellite Radio anywhere in the AM/FM BUTTON TUNE KNOB
United States, except Hawaii and
Alaska. CD/AUX BUTTON SCAN BUTTON

XM is a registered trademark of

Features
XM Satellite Radio, Inc.

Satellite radio receives signals from


two satellites to produce clear, high-
quality digital reception. It offers
many channels in several categories.
Along with a large selection of
different types of music, satellite
radio also allows you to view channel
and category selections in the audio
display.
POWER/VOLUME PRESET BUTTONS MORE BUTTON
KNOB

CATEGORY BAR DISPLAY/MODE BUTTON

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Playing the XM Satellite Radio (Optional on U.S. Models)

Playing the Satellite Radio You may experience periods when any title or name. Press MORE to
To listen to satellite radio, turn the XM radio does not transmit the artist view the next 6 letters. The system
ignition switch to the ACCESSORY name and or the song title will return to the original display
(I) or ON (II) position. Push the information. If this happens, there is after 8 seconds.
PWR/VOL knob to turn on the audio nothing wrong with your system.
system, and press the CD/AUX This information is not available TUNE − Turn the TUNE knob left
button. Adjust the volume by turning under certain situations. to go down the channels or right to
the PWR/VOL knob. The last go up. In the channel mode, the
channel you listened to will show in If you press and hold the DISP/ TUNE knob will tune up or down
the display. MODE button for 5 seconds, it will through all the channels available
change between category mode and from the XM radio. In the category
DISPLAY/MODE − Each time the channel mode. The display will show mode, the TUNE knob will cycle
DISP button is pressed and released, CH for the channel mode or through only the channels within the
the display information changes in CATEGORY for the category mode. category you have currently selected.
the following sequence: channel
name, channel number, category, In the channel mode, you can receive CATEGORY (SEEK/SKIP) − Use
artist name, and music title. all of the available channels in all of the CATEGORY bar to select a
the different categories. In category desired category, such as jazz, rock,
mode, you will receive only the classical, etc. In both category mode
stations within the selected category. and channel mode, pressing the
category bar will change the
MORE − Expands the display to category up or down.
show the 6 remaining letters beyond
the first 10 letters in an artist’s name
or song title. The system is set up so
only 16 letters can be displayed for

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Playing the XM Satellite Radio (Optional on U.S. Models)

SCAN − The scan function gives To store a channel: 3. Pick the preset button you want
you a sampling of all channels while Preset − You can store up to 12 for that channel. Press and hold
in the channel mode. In the category preset channels using the six preset the button until you hear a beep.
mode, only the channels within that buttons. Each button stores one
category are scanned. To activate channel from the XM1 band and one 4. Repeat steps 2 through 3 to store
scan, press the SCAN button. The channel from the XM2 band. the first six channels.
system plays each channel in
numerical order for a few seconds, To store a channel: 5. Press the CD/AUX button again.

Features
then selects the next channel. When 1. Press the CD/AUX button. Either The available XM band will show.
you hear a channel you want to XM1 or XM2 will show in the Store the next six channels using
continue listening to, press the display. steps 2 through 3.
button again.
2. Use the TUNE knob, the Once a channel is stored, simply
CATEGORY bar, or the SCAN press and release the proper preset
buttons to tune to a desired button to tune to it.
channel.
The presets may be lost if your
In category mode, only channels vehicle’s battery goes dead, is
within that category can be selected. disconnected, or the radio fuse is
In channel mode, all channels can be removed.
selected.

CONTINUED

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Playing the XM Satellite Radio (Optional on U.S. Models)

The XM satellites are in orbit over


the equator; therefore, objects south
Signal may be Signal is weaker in of the vehicle may cause satellite
blocked by these areas.
mountains or reception interruptions. To help
large obstacles to compensate for this, ground-based
the south. repeaters are placed in major
metropolitan areas.

Satellite signals are more likely to be


blocked by tall buildings and
mountains the farther north you
travel from the equator.

SATELLITE

GROUND REPEATER

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Playing the XM Satellite Radio (Optional on U.S. Models)

Depending on where you drive, you There may also be other geographic 1-800-852-9696. You will need to give
may experience reception problems. situations that could affect satellite them your radio I.D. number and
Interference can be caused by any of radio reception. your credit card number. To get your
these conditions: radio I.D. number, turn the TUNE
Driving on the north side of an As required by the FCC: knob until ‘‘0’’ appears in the display.
east/west mountain road. Changes or modifications not expressly Your I.D. will appear in the display.
approved by the party responsible for
Driving on the north side of a compliance could void the user’s After you’ve registered with XM

Features
large commercial truck on an authority to operate the equipment. Radio, keep your audio system in the
east/west road. Satellite Radio mode while you wait
Receiving Satellite Radio Service for activation. This should take about
Driving in tunnels. If your XM Radio service has expired, 30 minutes.
or you purchased your vehicle from
Driving on a road beside a vertical a previous owner, you can listen to a While waiting for activation, make
wall, steep cliff, or hill to the south sampling of the broadcasts available sure your vehicle remains in an open
of you. on XM Satellite Radio. With the area with good reception. Once your
ignition switch in the ACCESSORY audio system is activated, ‘‘category’’
Driving on the lower level of a (I) or ON (II) position, push the or ‘‘CH’’ will appear in the display,
multi-tiered road. PWR/VOL knob to turn on the audio and you’ll be able to listen to XM
system, and press the CD/AUX Radio broadcasts. XM Radio will
Driving on a single lane road button. A variety of music types and continue to send an activation signal
alongside dense trees taller than styles will play. to your vehicle for at least 12 hours
50 ft. (15 m) to the south of you. from the activation request. If the
If you decide to purchase XM service has not been activated after
satellite radio service, contact XM 36 hours, contact XM Radio.
Radio at www.xmradio.com, or at

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Playing a CD

U.S. model with Audio System Canadian model

REPEAT BUTTON REPEAT BUTTON

CD BUTTON CD SLOT EJECT BUTTON CD BUTTON CD SLOT EJECT BUTTON

SEEK/SKIP BAR RANDOM BUTTON SEEK/SKIP BAR RANDOM BUTTON

PWR/VOL KNOB PWR/VOL KNOB

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Playing a CD

To Play a CD To Change or Select Tracks


To load or play CDs, the ignition SKIP − Each time you press and
switch must be in the ACCESSORY Do not use discs with adhesive labels. release the side of the skip bar,
(I) or the ON(II) position. The label can curl up and cause the the player skips forward to the
disc to jam in the unit. beginning of the next track. Press
You operate the CD player with the and release the side of the bar
same controls used for the radio. To To play the radio when a CD is to skip backward to the beginning of
select the CD player, press the CD playing, press the AM/FM button. the current track. Press it again to

Features
button. The number of the track Press the CD button again to switch skip to the beginning of the previous
playing is shown in the display. The back to the CD player. track.
system will continuously play a CD
until you change modes. If you turn the system off while a CD To move rapidly within a track, press
is playing, either with the PWR/VOL and hold or .
Insert a CD about halfway into the knob or by turning off the ignition
CD slot. The drive will pull the CD in switch, the disc will stay in the drive. SEEK − To move rapidly within a
the rest of the way and begin to play When you turn the system back on, track, press and hold the SEEK/
it. When the system reaches the end the CD will begin playing where it SKIP bar. Press and hold to
of the disc, it will return to the left off. move forward. Press and hold
beginning and play the disc again. to move backward. Release the
bar when the system reaches the
point you want.

CONTINUED

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Playing a CD, CD Changer

REPEAT − To continuously replay If you turn the system off while a CD Operating the Optional CD
a track, press and release the RPT is playing, either with the PWR/VOL Changer
button. You will see RPT in the knob or by turning off the ignition An optional six disc CD changer is
display. Press it again to turn it off. switch, the disc will stay in the drive. available for your vehicle. This CD
When you turn the system back on, changer uses the same controls used
RANDOM − This feature plays the the CD will begin playing where it for the in-dash CD player.
tracks in random order. To activate left off.
random play, press and release the Load the desired CDs into the
RDM button. You will see RDM in magazine, and load the magazine
the display. Press it again to return into the changer according to the
to normal play. instructions that came with the unit.

To Stop Playing a CD To select the CD changer, press the


Press the eject button ( ) to CD button. The CD and track
remove the CD. If you eject the CD, numbers will be displayed. To select
but do not remove it from the slot, a different CD, use the preset 5
the system will automatically reload (DISC −) or preset 6 (DISC +)
the CD after 15 seconds and put it in button. If you select an empty slot in
pause mode. To begin playing, press the magazine, the changer will, after
the CD button. finding that slot empty, try to load
Press the AM/FM button to switch the CD in the next slot.
to the radio while a CD is playing.

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Protecting Your CDs

General Information Protecting CDs


When using CD-R discs, use only When a CD is not being played, store
high quality CDs labeled for audio it in its case to protect it from dust
use. and other contamination. To prevent
warpage, keep CDs out of direct
When recording a CD-R, the sunlight and extreme heat.
recording must be closed for it to
be used by the system. To clean a CD, use a clean soft cloth.

Features
Wipe across the CD from the center
CD-RW discs will not work in this to the outside edge.
unit.
A new CD may be rough on the
Play only standard round CDs. inner and outer edges. The small
Odd-shaped CDs may jam in the plastic pieces causing this roughness Handle a CD by its edges; never
drive or cause other problems. can flake off and fall on the re- touch either surface. Do not place
cording surface of the CD, causing stabilizer rings or labels on the CD.
Handle your CDs properly to skipping or other problems. Remove These, along with contamination
prevent damage and skipping. these pieces by rubbing the inner from fingerprints, liquids, and felt-tip
and outer edges with the side of a pens, can cause the CD to not play
pencil or pen. properly or possibly jam in the drive.

Never try to insert foreign objects in


the CD player or the magazine.

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Protecting Your CDs

Additional Information of 1. Bubbled, wrinkled, labelled, and excessively thick CDs


Recommended CDs
The CD player/changer has a
sophisticated and delicate
mechanism. If you insert a damaged
CD as indicated in this section, it
may become stuck inside and
damage the audio unit.

Examples of these CDs are shown to Bubbled/ With Label/ Using Printer Sealed With Plastic
the right: Wrinkled Sticker Label Kit Ring

2. Damaged CDs 3. Poor quality CDs

Chipped/ Warped Burrs


Cracked

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Protecting Your CDs

4. Small, irregular shaped CDs 5. CDs with scratches, dirty CDs Recommended CDs are printed
with the following logo.

Features
3-inch (8-cm) CD Triangle Shape
Fingerprints, scratches, etc.

CD-R or CD-RW may not play due


to the recording conditions.

Scratches and fingerprints on the


CDs may cause the sound to skip.

Can Shape Arrow Shape

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CD Player Error Messages

The chart on the right explains the


error messages you may see in the Error Cause Solution
display while playing a disc. Message
Press the EJECT button, and pull out the CD.
If you see an error message in the *1
Check if the CD is inserted correctly in the CD
display while playing a disc, press FOCUS Error player.
the eject button. After ejecting the *2
Make sure the CD is not scratched or damaged.
disc, check it for damage or For more information, see page 118.
deformation. If there is no damage, Press the EJECT button, and pull out the CD.
insert the disc again. *1
Check the CD for damage or deformation.
For more information, see page 118.
The audio system will try to play the Mechanical Error If the CD cannot be pulled out or the error
disc. If there is still a problem, the *2 message does not disappear after the CD is
error message will reappear. Press ejected, see your dealer.
the eject button, and pull out the disc. Do not try to force the disc out of the player.
*1
High temperature Will disappear when the temperature returns to
*2
For the additional information on normal.
damaged discs, see page 118 .
*1 : U.S. model
Insert a different disc. If the new *2 : Canadian model
disc plays, there is a problem with
the first disc. If the error message
cycle repeats and you cannot clear it,
take your vehicle to a dealer.

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CD Changer Error Messages

The chart on the right explains the


error messages you may see in the Error Cause Solution
display while playing a disc. Message
Press the magazine eject button, pull out the
If you see an error message in the *1 magazine, and check for an error message.
display while playing a disc, press FOCUS Error Insert the magazine again. If the error message
the eject button. After ejecting the does not disappear or the magazine cannot be
disc, check it for damage or pulled out, see your dealer.

Features
*2

deformation. If there is no damage, No CD in the CD Insert CD.


insert the disc again. magazine
Press the magazine eject button, and pull it out.
The audio system will try to play the *1
Check for an error message, and insert the
disc. If there is still a problem, the *2
Mechanical Error magazine again. If the error message does not
error message will reappear. Press disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,
the eject button, and pull out the disc. see your dealer.
*1 High temperature Will disappear when the temperature returns to
*2
For the additional information on normal.
damaged discs, see page 118 . *1

*2
No CD magazine in the Insert CD magazine.
CD changer
Insert a different disc. If the new
disc plays, there is a problem with *1 : U.S. model
the first disc. If the error message *2 : Canadian model
cycle repeats and you cannot clear it,
take your vehicle to a dealer.

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Remote Audio Controls

If equipped If you want to mute the sound in the audio system display.
temporarily, push the MUTE button.
AUDIO CONTROL CHANNEL The indicator in the button will come If you are playing a CD, the system
BUTTON BUTTON on to indicate the mute function is on. skips to the beginning of the next
Press the button again to cancel track each time you push the
mute. CHANNEL button.
MUTE
BUTTON The AUDIO CONTROL button These controls work only with the
changes the mode. Pressing the factory-installed audio system. They
button repeatedly selects FM1, FM2, will not function if you install any
VOLUME AM, CD (if a CD is loaded), CD non-Honda system.
BAR
changer (if you have the optional CD
changer).

Four controls for the audio system The CHANNEL button has two
are on the left side of the dashboard functions, depending on whether you
by the instrument panel. These let are listening to the radio, or playing a
you control basic functions without CD.
distracting your attention from
driving. If you are listening to the radio, use
the CHANNEL button to change
Use the VOLUME bar to adjust the stations. Each time you press this
volume. Push + to increase the button, the system advances to the
volume and − to decrease it. Hold next preset station on the band you
the lever until the volume reaches are listening to. You will see the
the desired level, then release it. number of the selected preset button

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Radio Theft Protection

If equipped If your vehicle’s battery is You may have to store your favorite
Your vehicle’s audio system will disconnected or goes dead, or the stations in the preset buttons after
disable itself if it is disconnected radio fuse is removed, the audio the system begins working. Your
from electrical power for any reason. system will disable itself. If this original settings may be lost when
To make it work again, you must happens, you will see ‘‘CODE’’ (U.S. the power is disconnected.
enter a specific five-digit code in the model) or ‘‘Code’’ (Canadian model)
preset buttons. Because there are in the frequency display the next
hundreds of number combinations time you turn on the system. Use the

Features
possible from five digits, making the preset buttons to enter the five-digit
system work without knowing the code. The code is on the radio code
exact code is nearly impossible. card included in your owner’s
manual kit. When it is entered
You should have received a card that correctly, the radio will start playing.
lists your audio system’s code and
serial numbers. It is best to store this If you make a mistake entering the
card in a safe place at home. In code, do not start over; complete the
addition, you should write the audio five-digit sequence, then enter the
system’s serial number in this owner’s correct code. You have 10 tries to
manual. enter the correct code. If you are
unsuccessful in 10 attempts, you
If you lose the card, you must obtain must then leave the system on for 1
the code number from a dealer. To hour before trying again.
do this, you will need the system’s
serial number.

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Cruise Control

Cruise control allows you to maintain Using the Cruise Control


a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h)
without keeping your foot on the CANCEL BUTTON RESUME/accel
accelerator pedal. It should be used
for cruising on straight, open
highways. It is not recommended for
city driving, winding roads, slippery
roads, heavy rain, or bad weather.

Improper use of the cruise


control can lead to a crash. CRUISE BUTTON
SET/decel

Use the cruise control only 1. Push in the CRUISE button. The 3. Press and release the SET/decel
when traveling on open indicator over the button comes on. button on the steering wheel. The
highways in good weather. indicator on the instrument panel
2. Accelerate to the desired cruising comes on to show the system is
speed above 25 mph (40 km/h). now activated.

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Cruise Control

Cruise control may not hold the Changing the Set Speed You can decrease the set cruising
set speed when you are going up You can increase the set cruising speed in any of these ways:
and down hills. If your speed speed in any of these ways:
increases going down a hill, use Press and hold the SET/decel
the brakes to slow down. This will Press and hold the RESUME/ button. Release the button when
cancel the cruise control. To accel button. When you reach the you reach the desired speed.
resume the set speed, press the desired cruising speed, release the
RESUME/accel button. The button. To slow down in very small

Features
indicator on the instrument panel amounts, tap the SET/decel
will come back on. Push on the accelerator pedal. button. Each time you do this,
Accelerate to the desired cruising your vehicle will slow down about
speed, and press the SET/decel 1 mph (1.6 km/h).
button.
Tap the brake or clutch pedal
To increase the speed in very lightly with your foot. The
small amounts, tap the RESUME/ CRUISE CONTROL indicator on
accel button. Each time you do the instrument panel goes out.
this, your vehicle speeds up about When the vehicle slows to the
1 mph (1.6 km/h). desired speed, press the SET/
decel button.

CONTINUED

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Cruise Control

Even with the cruise control turned Canceling Cruise Control Resuming the Set Speed
on, you can still use the accelerator You can cancel cruise control in any When you push the CANCEL button,
pedal to speed up for passing. After of these ways: or tap the brake or clutch pedal, the
completing the pass, take your foot system will remember the previously
off the accelerator pedal. The vehicle Tap the brake or clutch pedal. set cruising speed. To return to that
will return to the set cruising speed. speed, accelerate to above 25 mph
Push the CANCEL button on the (40 km/h), then press and release
Resting your foot on the brake or steering wheel. the RESUME/accel button. The
clutch pedal causes the cruise CRUISE CONTROL indicator comes
control to cancel. Push the CRUISE button. on. The vehicle will accelerate to the
same cruising speed as before.

Pressing the CRUISE button turns


the system off and erases the
previous cruising speed.

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Before Driving

Before you begin driving your Break-in Period .............................. 128


vehicle, you should know what Fuel Recommendation .................. 128
gasoline to use and how to check the Service Station Procedures .......... 129
levels of important fluids. You also Refueling..................................... 129
need to know how to properly store Opening and Closing the
luggage or packages. The Hood ........................................ 130
information in this section will help Oil Check .................................... 131
you. If you plan to add any Engine Coolant Check .............. 132
accessories to your vehicle, please Fuel Economy ................................ 133
read the information in this section Accessories and Modifications .... 136

Before Driving
first. Carrying Cargo .............................. 138

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Break-in Period, Fuel Recommendation

Break-in Period Fuel Recommendation and cause the malfunction indicator


Help assure your vehicle’s future Your vehicle is designed to operate lamp on your instrument panel to
reliability and performance by paying on premium unleaded gasoline with a come on. If this happens, contact
extra attention to how you drive pump octane number of 91 or higher. your authorized dealer for service.
during the first 600 miles (1,000 km). Use of a lower octane gasoline can
During this period: cause occasional metallic knocking Some gasoline today is blended with
noises in the engine and will result in oxygenates such as ethanol or
Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid decreased engine performance. Use MTBE. Your vehicle is designed to
acceleration. Do not exceed 5,500 of a gasoline with a pump octane operate on oxygenated gasoline
rpm for the first 600 miles (1,000 number less than 87 can lead to containing up to 10% ethanol by
km) of operation. engine damage. volume and up to 15% MTBE by
We recommend quality gasoline volume. Do not use gasoline
Do not change the oil until the containing detergent additives that containing methanol.
scheduled maintenance time. help prevent fuel system and engine
deposits. If you notice any undesirable
Avoid hard braking for the first operating symptoms, try another
200 miles (300 km). In addition, in order to maintain good service station or switch to another
performance, fuel economy, and brand of gasoline.
You should also follow these emissions control, we strongly
recommendations with an recommend, in areas where it is For further important fuel-related
overhauled or exchanged engine, or available, the use of gasoline that information, please refer to your
when the brakes are replaced. does NOT contain manganese-based Quick Start Guide.
fuel additives such as MMT.

Use of gasoline with these additives


may adversely affect performance,

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Service Station Procedures

Refueling 3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.


You may hear a hissing sound as
Gasoline is highly flammable pressure inside the tank escapes.
and explosive. You can be Place the cap in the holder on the
burned or seriously injured fuel fill door.
when handling fuel.
4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel
Stop the engine, and keep nozzle 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

Before Driving
Pull Wipe up spills immediately. with temperature changes.

If the fuel nozzle keeps clicking off


even though the tank is not full,
1. Park with the driver’s side closest there may be a problem with your
to the service station pump. vehicle’s fuel vapor recovery
system. The system helps keep
2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling fuel vapor from going into the
on the knob on the driver’s door atmosphere. Try filling at another
jamb. pump. If this does not fix the
problem, consult your dealer.

FUEL FILL CAP

CONTINUED

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Service Station Procedures

5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on Opening and Closing the Hood
until it clicks at least once. If you
do not properly tighten the cap, RELEASE HANDLE
the malfunction indicator lamp
may come on (see page 219 ). You
will also see a ‘‘CHECK FUEL
CAP’’ message on the information
display.

6. Push the fuel fill door closed until


it latches.

1. Park the vehicle, and set the 2. Put your fingers under the front
parking brake. Pull the hood edge of the hood near the center.
release handle located under the Slide your hand to the left until
lower left corner of the dashboard. you feel the hood latch handle.
The hood will pop up slightly. Push this handle to the left to
release the hood. Lift up the hood.

If the hood latch handle moves


stiffly, or if you can open the hood
without lifting the handle, the
mechanism should be cleaned and
lubricated.

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Service Station Procedures

Oil Check
GRIP DIPSTICK

UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK

Before Driving
SUPPORT ROD CLIP

3. Holding the grip, pull the support Wait a few minutes after turning the 4. Remove the dipstick again, and
rod out of its clip. Insert the end engine off before you check the oil. check the level. It should be
into the designated hole in the between the upper and lower
hood. 1. Remove the dipstick (black marks.
handle).
To close the hood, lift it up slightly to If it is near or below the lower mark,
remove the support rod from the 2. Wipe off the dipstick with a clean see Adding Engine Oil on page 170 .
hole. Put the support rod back into cloth or paper towel.
its holding clip. Lower the hood to
about a foot (30 cm) above the 3. Insert the dipstick all the way back
fender, then let it drop. Make sure it into its hole.
is securely latched.

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Service Station Procedures

Engine Coolant Check Look at the coolant level in the Refer to Owner’s Maintenance
radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is Checks on page 167 for information
RESERVE TANK between the MAX and MIN lines. If about checking other items on your
it is below the MIN line, see Adding vehicle.
Engine Coolant on page 173 for
information on adding the proper
coolant.

MAX MIN

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Fuel Economy

Actual Mileage and EPA Fuel


Economy Estimates Comparison. City MPG Highway MPG
Fuel economy is not a fixed number.
It varies based on driving conditions,
driving habits and vehicle condition.
Therefore, it is not possible for one
set of estimates to predict fuel
economy precisely for all drivers in
all environments. Combined Fuel Estimated Annual
Economy Fuel Cost

Before Driving
The EPA fuel economy estimates
shown in the example to the right (Sample U.S. EPA label shown)
are a useful tool for comparison
when buying a vehicle. EPA achieved is also provided. Estimated Annual Fuel Cost −
estimates include: Provides an estimated annual fuel
Combined Fuel Economy − cost, based on 15,000 miles (20,000
City MPG − Represents urban Represents a combination of city and km) per year multiplied by the cost
driving in a vehicle in light traffic. A highway driving. The scale per gallon (based on EPA fuel cost
range of miles per gallon achieved is represents the range of combined data) divided by the combined fuel
also provided. fuel economy for other vehicles in economy.
the class.
Highway MPG − Represents a For more information on fuel
mixture of rural and interstate economy ratings and factors that
driving, in a warmed-up vehicle, affect fuel economy, visit www.
typical of longer trips in free-flowing fueleconomy.gov (Canada: Visit www.
traffic. A range of miles per gallon vehicles.gc.ca)

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Fuel Economy

Fuel Economy Factors Use the recommended viscosity Drive Efficiently


The following factors can lower your motor oil, displaying the API Drive moderately − Rapid
vehicle’s fuel economy: Certification Seal (see page acceleration, abrupt cornering,
Aggressive driving (hard 170). and hard braking increase fuel
acceleration and braking) consumption.
Excessive idling, accelerating and Maintain proper tire inflation
braking in stop-and-go traffic − An under-inflated tire increases Observe the speed limit −
Cold engine operation (engines ‘‘rolling resistance,’’ which reduces Aerodynamic drag has a big effect
are more efficient when warmed fuel economy. on fuel mileage at speeds above 45
up) mph (75 km/h). Reduce your
Driving with a heavy load or the Avoid carrying excess weight in speed and you reduce the drag.
air conditioner running your vehicle − It puts a heavier Trailers, car top carriers, roof
Improperly inflated tires load on the engine, increasing fuel racks and bike racks are also big
consumption. contributors to increased drag.
Improving Fuel Economy
Keep your vehicle clean − In Always drive in the highest gear
Vehicle Maintenance particular, a build-up of snow or possible − If your vehicle has a
A properly maintained vehicle mud on your vehicle’s underside manual transmission, you can
maximizes fuel economy. Poor adds weight and rolling resistance. boost your fuel economy by up
maintenance can significantly reduce Frequent cleaning helps your fuel shifting as early as possible.
fuel economy. Always maintain your economy.
vehicle according to the maintenance Avoid excessive idling − Idling
messages displayed on the results in 0 miles per gallon.
information display (see Owner’s
Maintenance Checks on page 167 ).
For example:

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Fuel Economy

Minimize the use of the air Checking Your Fuel Economy


conditioning system − The A/C
puts an extra load on the engine
which makes it use more fuel. Use
the fresh-air ventilation when
possible. Gallons of Miles per
Miles driven fuel Gallon
Plan and combine trips −
Combine several short trips into
one. A warmed-up engine is more

Before Driving
fuel efficient than a cold one. 100 Liter Kilometers L per 100 km

Calculating Fuel Economy

Measuring Techniques
Direct calculation is the
recommended source of information 1) Fill the fuel tank until the nozzle automatically clicks off.
about your actual fuel economy. 2) Reset trip counter to zero.
Using frequency of fill-ups or taking 3) Record the total gallons (liters) needed to refill.
fuel gauge readings are NOT 4) Follow one of the simple calculations above.
accurate measures of fuel economy.
Fuel economy may improve over the
first several thousand miles.

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Accessories and Modifications

Modifying your vehicle, or installing Before installing any accessory:


some non-Honda accessories, can Make sure the accessory does not
make it unsafe. Before you make any Improper accessories or obscure any lights, or interfere
modifications or add any accessories, modifications can affect your with proper vehicle operation or
be sure to read the following vehicle’s handling, stability, and performance.
information. performance, and cause a
crash in which you can be hurt Be sure electronic accessories do
Accessories or killed. not overload electrical circuits
Your dealer has Honda accessories (see page 222 ) or interfere with
that allow you to personalize your Follow all instructions in this the proper operation of your
vehicle. These accessories have owner’s manual regarding vehicle.
been designed and approved for your accessories and modifications.
vehicle, and are covered by warranty. Before installing any electronic
accessory, have the installer
Although non-Honda accessories When properly installed, cellular contact your dealer. If possible,
may fit on your vehicle, they may not phones, alarms, two-way radios, and have your dealer inspect the final
meet factory specifications, and low-powered audio systems should installation.
could adversely affect your vehicle’s not interfere with your vehicle’s
handling and stability. computer controlled systems, such
as your airbags, anti-lock brakes, and
tire pressure monitoring system.

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Accessories and Modifications

Modifying Your Vehicle Larger or smaller wheels and tires


Removing parts from your vehicle, can interfere with the operation of
or replacing components with your vehicle’s anti-lock brakes and
non-Honda components could other systems.
seriously affect your vehicle’s
handling, stability, and reliability. Modifying your steering wheel or
any other part of your vehicle’s
Here are some examples: safety systems could make the
Lowering the vehicle with a non- systems ineffective.
Honda suspension kit that

Before Driving
significantly reduces ground If you plan to modify your vehicle,
clearance can allow the consult your dealer.
undercarriage to hit speed bumps
or other raised objects, which
could cause the airbags to deploy.

Raising your vehicle with a


non-Honda suspension kit can
affect the handling and stability.

Non-Honda wheels, because they


are a universal design, can cause
excessive stress on suspension
components and will not be
compatible with the tire pressure
monitoring system (TPMS).

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Carrying Cargo

Your vehicle has several convenient


UPPER AND LOWER CONSOLE DOOR POCKETS storage areas:
COMPARTMENTS
Upper and lower console
compartments

Dashboard lower pocket

Door pockets

Console side net

Seat-back pocket

Trunk

However, carrying too much cargo,


or improperly storing it, can affect
your vehicle’s handling, stability,
stopping distance, and tires, which
may make it unsafe. Before carrying
any type of cargo, be sure to read the
following pages.
TRUNK SEAT-BACK POCKET CONSOLE SIDE NET DASHBOARD LOWER
POCKET

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Carrying Cargo

Load Limits (4)The resulting figure equals the


The maximum load for your vehicle available amount of cargo and
is 400 lbs (181 kg) for U.S. vehicles, Overloading or improper luggage load capacity. For
and 185 kg for Canadian vehicles. loading can affect handling and example, if the ‘‘XXX’’ amount
This figure includes the total weight stability and cause a crash in equals 1,400 lbs. and there will be
of all occupants, cargo, and which you can be hurt or killed. five 150 lb. passengers in your
accessories. vehicle, the amount of available
Follow all load limits and other cargo and luggage load capacity is
See Tire And Loading Information loading guidelines in this 650 lbs.
label attached to the driver’s manual. (1,400 − 750 (5 × 150) = 650 lbs.)

Before Driving
doorjamb.
Steps for Determining Correct Load (5)Determine the combined weight
Label Example Limit − of luggage and cargo being loaded
(1)Locate the statement ‘‘The on the vehicle. That weight may
combined weight of occupants and not safely exceed the available
cargo should never exceed XXX cargo and luggage load capacity
kg or XXX lbs.’’ on your vehicle’s calculated in Step 4.
placard.
(6)If your vehicle will be towing a
(2)Determine the combined weight trailer, load from your trailer will
of the driver and passengers that be transferred to your vehicle.
This figure includes the total weight will be riding in your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine
of all occupants, cargo, and how this reduces the available
accessories, and the tongue load if (3)Subtract the combined weight of cargo and luggage load capacity of
you are towing a trailer. the driver and passengers from your vehicle.
XXX kg or XXX lbs. CONTINUED

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Carrying Cargo

In addition, the total weight of the


vehicle, all occupants, accessories,
cargo, and trailer tongue load must
Example 1 not exceed the Gross Vehicle
Max Load (400 lbs) Passenger Weight Cargo Weight Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross
(150 lbs x 1 = 150 lbs) (250 lbs) Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Both
are on a label on the driver’s
doorjamb.

Example 2
Max Load (400 lbs) Passenger Weight Cargo Weight
(150 lbs x 2 = 300 lbs) (100 lbs)

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Carrying Cargo

Carrying Items in the Passenger Carrying Cargo in the Trunk


Compartment Distribute cargo evenly on the
Store or secure all items that could floor of the trunk, placing the
be thrown around and hurt heaviest items on the bottom and
someone during a crash. as far forward as possible.

Be sure items placed on the floor


behind the front seats cannot roll
underneath and interfere with the
proper operation of the seats, the

Before Driving
sensors under the seats, or the
driver’s ability to operate the
pedals.

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Driving

This section gives you tips on Driving Guidelines ......................... 144


starting the engine under various Preparing to Drive ......................... 145
conditions, and how to operate the Starting the Engine........................ 146
manual transmission. It also includes Manual Transmission.................... 147
important information on parking Parking ............................................ 149
your vehicle and the braking system. Braking System.............................. 149
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) ................ 150
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
System......................................... 152
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
(TPMS) ....................................... 154
Towing a Trailer ............................ 157

Driving
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Driving Guidelines

Your vehicle is designed to give you Because of the low-profile tires


optimum handling and performance fitted to your vehicle, the alloy
on well-maintained roads. As part of wheels are closer to the ground.
this design, your vehicle has a Driving over a pothole or road
minimum of ground clearance and debris at too high a speed can
very low-profile tires. seriously damage a wheel. Slow
down under these conditions.
Use caution if you ever drive your
vehicle on very rough or rutted
roads. You could damage the
suspension and underbody by
bottoming out. Going too fast over
parking lot ‘‘speed bumps’’ can
also cause damage. Curbs and steep inclines could
damage the front and rear
bumpers. Low curbs that do not
affect the average vehicle may be
high enough to hit the bumper on
your vehicle. The front or rear
bumper may scrape when trying to
drive onto an incline, such as a
steep driveway or trailer ramps.

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Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checks 5. Check that any items you may be 9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that
and adjustments before you drive carrying are stored properly or your passenger has fastened his or
your vehicle. fastened down securely. her seat belt (see page 12 ).

1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, 6. Check the seat adjustment (see 10. When you start the engine, check
and outside lights are clean and page 69 ). the gauges and indicators in the
unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, instrument panel (see page 45 ).
or ice. 7. Check the adjustment of the
inside and outside mirrors (see
2. Check that the hood is fully closed. page 87 ).

3. Check that the trunk is fully 8. Make sure the doors are securely

Driving
closed. closed and locked.

4. Visually check the tires. If a tire


looks low, use a gauge to check its
pressure.

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Starting the Engine

1. Apply the parking brake. 6. If the engine does not start within
15 seconds, or starts but stalls
2. In cold weather, turn off all right away, repeat step 5 with the
electrical accessories to reduce accelerator pedal pressed halfway
the drain on the battery. down. If the engine starts, release
pressure on the accelerator pedal
3. Push the clutch pedal down all the so the engine does not race.
way. The ENGINE START button
has no effect unless the clutch 7. If the engine fails to start, press
pedal is pressed. the accelerator pedal all the way
down and hold it there while
4. Turn the ignition key to the ON ENGINE START BUTTON starting to clear flooding. If the
(II) position. engine still does not start, return
to step 6.
5. Without touching the accelerator
pedal, push the ENGINE START The immobilizer system protects your
button. Do not hold the ENGINE vehicle f rom thef t. If an improperly-
START button for more than 15 coded key (or other device) is used, the The engine is harder to start in cold
seconds at a time. If the engine engine’s f uel system is disabled. For weather. Also, the thinner air f ound at
does not start right away, pause more inf ormation, see page 63 . altitudes above 8,000 f eet (2,400
for at least 10 seconds before meters) adds to this problem.
trying again.

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Manual Transmission

Come to a full stop before you shift


into reverse. You can damage the
transmission by trying to shift into Rapid slowing or speeding up
reverse with the vehicle moving. can cause loss of control on
Push down the clutch pedal, and slippery surfaces. If you crash,
pause for a few seconds before you can be injured.
shifting into reverse, or shift into one
of the forward gears for a moment. Use extra care when driving on
This stops the gears so they won’t slippery surfaces.
‘‘grind.’’

When slowing down, you can get Your vehicle is equipped with an

Driving
extra braking from the engine by aluminum shift lever. If you leave the
The manual transmission is shifting to a lower gear. This extra vehicle parked outside for a long
synchronized in all forward gears for braking can help you maintain a safe time on a hot day, be careful before
smooth operation. It has a lockout so speed and prevent your brakes from moving the shift lever. Because of
you cannot shift directly from fifth to overheating while going down a the heat, the shift lever may be
reverse instead of sixth (see page steep hill. Before downshifting, extremely hot. If the outside
148 ). When shifting up or down, make sure the engine speed will not temperature is low, the shift lever
make sure you push the clutch pedal go into the tachometer’s red zone in feels cold.
down all the way, shift to the next the lower gear.
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.

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Manual Transmission

Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter Reverse Lockout


Drive in the highest gear that lets If you exceed the maximum speed
the engine run and accelerate for the gear you are in, the engine
smoothly. This will give you good speed will enter into the tachometer’s
fuel economy and effective red zone. If this occurs, you may feel
emissions control. The following the engine cut in and out. This is
shift points are recommended: caused by a limiter in the engine’s
computer controls. The engine will
Shift Up Normal Acceleration run normally when you reduce the
rpm below the red zone.
1st to 2nd 15 mph (24 km/h)
2nd to 3rd 25 mph (40 km/h) Before downshifting, make sure the
3rd to 4th 40 mph (64 km/h) engine will not go into the
4th to 5th 47 mph (75 km/h) tachometer’s red zone.
5th to 6th 52 mph (83 km/h) The manual transmission has a
lockout so you cannot accidentally
shift from fifth to reverse instead of
sixth while the vehicle is moving.

With the clutch pedal pressed, move


the shift lever to the reverse side of
the neutral gate. Then push the shift
lever down, and shift to reverse.

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Parking, Braking System

Parking materials. The hot three way Braking System


Always use the parking brake when catalytic converter could cause Your vehicle is equipped with disc
you park your vehicle. Make sure these materials to catch on fire. brakes at all four wheels. A power
the parking brake is set firmly, or assist helps reduce the effort needed
your vehicle may roll if it is parked If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn on the brake pedal. The anti-lock
on an incline. the front wheels away from the brake system (ABS) helps you retain
curb, and put the transmission in steering control when braking very
Parking Tips first gear. hard.
Except CR models Resting your foot on the pedal keeps
Make sure the convertible top and If the vehicle is facing downhill, the brakes applied lightly, builds up
the windows are closed. turn the front wheels toward the heat, and reduces their effectiveness
curb, and put the transmission in and reduces brake pad life. In

Driving
CR models reverse gear. addition, fuel economy can be
Make sure the removable hardtop reduced. It also keeps your brake
is properly installed and the Make sure the parking brake is lights on all the time, confusing
windows are closed. fully released before driving away. drivers behind you.
Driving with the parking brake Constant application of the brakes
Turn off the lights. partially set can overheat or when going down a long hill builds
damage the rear brakes. up heat and reduces their effective-
Place any packages, valuables, etc., ness. Use the engine to assist the
in the trunk or take them with you. brakes by taking your foot off the
accelerator and downshifting to a
Lock the doors. lower gear.

Never park over dry leaves, tall


grass, or other flammable CONTINUED

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Braking System, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Check the brakes after driving Brake Pad Wear Indicators The electronic brake distribution
through deep water. Apply the If the brake pads need replacing, you (EBD) system, which is part of the
brakes moderately to see if they feel will hear a distinctive, metallic ABS, also balances the front-to-rear
normal. If not, apply them gently and screeching sound when you apply braking distribution according to
frequently until they do. Be extra the brake pedal. If you do not have vehicle loading.
cautious in your driving. the brake pads replaced, they will
screech all the time. It is normal for You should never pump the brake pedal.
Braking System Design the brakes to occasionally squeal or Let the ABS work for you by always
The hydraulic system that operates squeak when you apply them. keeping firm, steady pressure on the
the brakes has two separate circuits. brake pedal. This is sometimes
Each circuit works diagonally across Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) referred to as ‘‘stomp and steer.’’
the vehicle (the left-front brake is The anti-lock brake system (ABS)
connected with the right-rear brake, helps prevent the wheels from You will feel a pulsation in the brake
etc.). If one circuit should develop a locking up, and helps you retain pedal when the ABS activates, and
problem, you will still have braking steering control by pumping the may hear some noise. This is normal:
at two wheels. brakes rapidly, much faster than a it is the ABS rapidly pumping the
person can do it. brakes. On dry pavement, you will
need to press on the brake pedal
very hard before the ABS activates.
However, you may feel the ABS
activate immediately if you are trying
to stop on snow or ice.

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Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

ABS Indicator Important Safety Reminders A vehicle with ABS may require a
ABS does not reduce the time or longer distance to stop on loose or
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM distance it takes to stop the uneven surfaces, such as gravel or
INDICATOR vehicle; it only helps with steering snow, than a vehicle without anti-
control during braking. lock.

ABS will not prevent a skid that


results from changing direction
abruptly, such as trying to take a
corner too fast or making a sudden
lane change.

Driving
ABS cannot prevent a loss of
stability. Always steer moderately
If this indicator comes on, the anti- when you are braking hard. Severe
lock function of the braking system or sharp steering wheel movement
has shut down. The brakes still work can still cause your vehicle to veer
like a conventional system, but into oncoming traffic or off the road.
without anti-lock. You should have
your dealer inspect your vehicle as
soon as possible.

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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

The vehicle stability assist (VSA) VSA Activation Indicator Without VSA, your vehicle still has
system helps to stabilize the vehicle normal braking and cornering ability,
during cornering if the vehicle turns When VSA activates, you will see the but it does not have VSA traction and
more or less than desired. It also VSA activation indicator blink (see stability enhancement.
assists you in maintaining traction page 50 ).
while accelerating on loose or
slippery road surfaces. It does this VSA System Indicator
by regulating the engine’s output and
by selectively applying the brakes. If this indicator comes on while
driving, pull to the side of the road
When VSA activates, you may notice when it is safe, and turn off the
that the engine does not respond to engine. Reset the system by
the accelerator in the same way it restarting the engine. If the VSA
does at other times. system indicator stays on or comes
back on while driving, have the VSA
The VSA system cannot enhance the system inspected by your dealer.
vehicle’s driving stability in all
situations and does not control your If the indicator does not come on
vehicle’s entire braking system. It is when the ignition switch is turned to
still your responsibility to drive and the ON (II) position, there may be a
corner at reasonable speeds and to problem with the VSA system. Have
leave a sufficient margin of safety. your dealer inspect your vehicle as
soon as possible (see page 50 ).

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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

VSA Off Switch Immediately after freeing your VSA and Tire Sizes
vehicle, be sure to switch the VSA on Driving with varying tire or wheel
again. We do not recommend driving sizes may cause the VSA to
your vehicle with the VSA and malfunction. When replacing tires,
traction control systems switched off. make sure they are of the same size
and type as your original tires (see
This switch is at the left side of the page 190 ).
right vent. Press it to turn VSA on
and off. Except CR models
Deactivate the VSA system if you
To turn VSA off, press and hold the need to drive with the compact spare
switch until the VSA activation tire installed (see page 200 ).

Driving
VSA OFF SWITCH indicator comes on.
If you install winter tires, make sure
In certain unusual conditions when When VSA is off, the VSA activation they are the same size as those that
your vehicle gets stuck in shallow indicator comes on as a reminder. were originally supplied with your
mud or fresh snow, it may be easier vehicle. Exercise the same caution
to free it with the VSA temporarily VSA is turned on every time you during winter driving as you would if
switched off. When the VSA system start the engine, even if you turned it your vehicle was not equipped with
is off, the traction control system is off the last time you drove the VSA.
also off. You should only attempt to vehicle.
free your vehicle with the VSA off if
you are not able to free it when the
VSA is on.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Your vehicle is equipped with a tire If you think you can safely drive a Driving on a significantly under-
pressure monitoring system (TPMS) short distance to a service station, inflated tire causes the tire to
that turns on every time you start the proceed slowly, and inflate the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.
engine and monitors the pressure in the recommended pressure shown Under-inflation also reduces fuel
your tires while driving. on the driver’s doorjamb. efficiency and tire tread life, and may
affect the vehicle’s handling and
Each tire has its own pressure Except CR models stopping ability.
sensor (not including the spare tire). If the tire is flat, or if the tire
If the air pressure of a tire becomes pressure is too low to continue Because tire pressure varies by
significantly low while driving, the driving, replace the tire with the temperature and other conditions,
sensor in that tire immediately sends compact spare tire (see page 200 ). the low tire pressure indicator may
a signal that causes the low tire come on unexpectedly.
pressure indicator to come on. CR models
If the tire is flat, or if the tire
Low Tire Pressure pressure is too low to continue
Indicator driving, repair the tire with the tire
When the low tire pressure indicator repair kit (see page 206 ).
is on, one or more of your tires is
significantly underinflated. You If you cannot make the low tire
should stop and check your tires as pressure indicator go out after
soon as possible, and inflate them to inflating the tires to the specified
the proper pressure as indicated on values, have your dealer check the
the vehicle’s tire information placard. system as soon as possible.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

For example, if you check and fill information label and in the owner’s Changing a Tire with TPMS
your tires in a warm area, then drive manual (see page 190 ). Except CR models
in extremely cold weather, the tire If you have a flat tire, the low tire
pressure will be lower than Tire Pressure Monitoring pressure indicator will come on.
measured and could be underinflated System (TPMS) Indicator Replace the flat tire with the
and cause the low tire pressure This indicator comes on and stays on compact spare tire (see page 200 ).
indicator to come on. Or, if you if there is a problem with the tire
check and adjust your tire pressure pressure monitoring system. Each wheel (except the compact
in cooler conditions, and drive into spare tire wheel) is equipped with a
extremely hot conditions, the tire If this happens, the system will shut tire pressure sensor mounted inside
may become overinflated. However, off and no longer monitor tire the tire behind the valve stem. You
the low tire pressure indicator will pressures. Have the system checked must use TPMS specific wheels. It is

Driving
not come on if the tires are by your dealer as soon as possible. recommended that you always have
overinflated. your tires serviced by your dealer or
When you restart the vehicle with qualified technician.
Refer to page 189 for tire inflation the compact spare tire, the TPMS
guidelines. indicator may also come on and stay
on after driving several miles
Although your tire pressure is (kilometers).
monitored, you must manually check
the tire pressures monthly.

Each tire, including the spare, should


be checked monthly when cold, and
set to the recommended inflation
pressure as specified on the tire

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

After you replace the flat tire with Repairing a Tire with TPMS As required by the FCC:
the compact spare tire, the low tire CR models This device complies with Part 15 of the
pressure indicator stays on. This is If you have a flat tire, the low tire FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
normal; the system is not monitoring pressure indicator will come on. following two conditions: (1) This device
the spare tire pressure. Manually Repair the flat tire with the tire may not cause harmful interference, and
check the spare tire pressure to be repair kit (see page 206 ). (2) this device must accept any
sure it is correct. After several miles interference received, including
(kilometers) driving with the Each wheel is equipped with a tire interference that may cause undesired
compact spare tire, the TPMS pressure sensor mounted inside the operation.
indicator comes on and the low tire tire behind the valve stem. You must
pressure indicator goes off. use TPMS specific wheels. It is Changes or modifications not expressly
recommended that you always have approved by the party responsible for
The low tire pressure indicator or your tires serviced by your dealer or compliance could void the user’s
the TPMS indicator will go off, after a qualified technician. authority to operate the equipment.
several miles (kilometers) driving,
when you replace the spare tire with After you repair the flat tire, the low This device complies with Industry
the specified regular tire equipped tire pressure indicator may come on. Canada Standard RSS-210.
with the tire pressure monitor sensor. This is normal; the system is not Operation is subject to the following two
monitoring the repaired tire pressure. conditions: (1) this device may not cause
Never use a puncture-repairing agent interference, and (2) this device must
in a flat tire. If used, you will have to Have the flat tire repaired by the accept any interference that may cause
replace the tire pressure sensor. dealer as soon as possible. undesired operation of the device.
Have the flat tire repaired by your
dealer as soon as possible.

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Towing a Trailer

Your vehicle is not designed to tow a


trailer. Attempting to do so can void
your warranties.

Driving
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Maintenance

This section explains why it is Maintenance Safety ....................... 160


important to keep your vehicle well Maintenance Minder ..................... 161
maintained and how to follow basic Fluid Locations............................... 169
maintenance safety precautions. Adding Engine Oil ......................... 170
Changing the Oil and Filter .......... 171
This section also includes Engine Coolant ............................... 173
instructions on how to read the Windshield Washers ..................... 175
maintenance minder messages on Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 176
the information display, and Differential Fluid ........................... 177
instructions for simple maintenance Brake and Clutch Fluid ................. 178
tasks you may want to take care of Lights .............................................. 179
yourself. Cleaning the Seat Belts ................. 184
Floor Mats ...................................... 185
If you have the skills and tools to Dust and Pollen Filter ................... 185

Maintenance
perform more complex maintenance Audio Antenna ............................... 185
tasks on your vehicle, you may want Wiper Blades .................................. 186
to purchase the service manual. See Wheels ............................................ 188
page 251 for information on how to Tires ................................................ 188
obtain a copy, or see your dealer. Checking the Battery .................... 196
Vehicle Storage .............................. 198

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Maintenance Safety

All service items not detailed in this Injury from moving parts. Do
section should be performed by a not run the engine unless
certified technician or other qualified Improperly maintaining this instructed to do so.
mechanic. vehicle, or failing to correct a
problem before driving can
Important Safety Precautions cause a crash in which you can
To eliminate potential hazards, read be seriously hurt or killed. Failure to properly follow
the instructions before you begin, maintenance instructions and
and make sure you have the tools Always follow the inspection precautions can cause you to
and skills required. and maintenance be seriously hurt or killed.
Make sure your vehicle is parked recommendations and
on level ground, the parking brake schedules in this owner’s Always follow the procedures
is set, and the engine is off. manual. and precautions in this owner’s
manual.
To clean parts, use a commercially
available degreaser or parts Potential Vehicle Hazards
cleaner, not gasoline. Carbon Monoxide poison Some of the most important safety
from engine exhaust. Be sure precautions are given here.
To reduce the possibility of fire or there is adequate ventilation However, we cannot warn you of
explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks, whenever you operate the every conceivable hazard that can
and flames away from the battery engine. arise in performing maintenance.
and all fuel-related parts. Only you can decide whether or
Burns from hot parts. Let the not you should perform a given
Wear eye protection and engine and exhaust system cool task.
protective clothing when working down before touching any parts.
with the battery or compressed air.

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Maintenance Minder

Your vehicle displays engine oil life Engine Oil Life Display The remaining engine oil life is
and maintenance service items on shown on the display according to
the information display to show you TRIP BUTTON this table:
when you should have your dealer do
engine oil replacement and indicated Calculated Engine Displayed
maintenance service. Oil Life (%) Engine Oil Life (%)
100 % − 91 % 100 %
Based on the engine operating 90 % − 81 % 90 %
conditions and accumulated engine 80 % − 71 % 80 %
revolutions, the onboard computer in 70 % − 61 % 70 %
your vehicle calculates the remaining 60 % − 51 % 60 %
engine oil life and displays it as a 50 % − 41 % 50 %
percentage. ENGINE OIL LIFE DISPLAY 40 % − 31 % 40 %
30 % − 21 % 30 %

Maintenance
To see the current engine oil life, 20 % − 16 % 20 %
turn the ignition switch to the ON 15 % − 11 % 15 %
(II) position, and push and release 10 % − 6 % 10 %
the TRIP button repeatedly until the 5%−1% 5%
engine oil life display appears (see 0% 0%
page 53 ).

CONTINUED

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Maintenance Minder

The maintenance item code or codes


indicate the main and sub items
MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR required at the time of the oil change
(see page 168 ).

ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR


MAINTENANCE ITEM CODE(S)

If the remaining engine oil life is 15 The 15 and 10 percent oil life
to 6 percent, you will see the engine indicator reminds you that the time
oil life indicator every time you turn is coming soon to take your vehicle
the ignition switch to the ON (II) in for the required maintenance.
position. The maintenance minder
indicator will also come on, and the
maintenance item code(s) for other
scheduled maintenance items
needing service will be displayed
next to the engine oil life indicator.

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Maintenance Minder

Maintenance
When the remaining engine oil life is When the remaining engine oil life is If you do not perform the indicated
5 to 1 percent, you will see a 0 percent, the engine oil life indicator maintenance, negative mileage is
‘‘SERVICE OIL LIFE’’ message will blink. The display comes on displayed and begins to blink after
along with the same maintenance every time you turn the ignition the vehicle has been driven 10 miles
item code(s), every time you turn the switch to the ON (II) position. The (10 km) or more.
ignition switch to the ON (II) maintenance minder indicator
position. The maintenance minder ( ) also comes on and remains Negative mileage means your
indicator ( ) also comes on and on in the instrument panel. When vehicle has passed the maintenance
remains on in the instrument panel. you see this message, immediately required point.
have the indicated maintenance done Immediately have the indicated
by your dealer. maintenance done by your dealer.
CONTINUED

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Maintenance Minder

The maximum total mileage shown When the engine oil life is 0 percent Maintenance Main Items and Sub
is ‘‘−9999.’’ or negative mileage, the Items
maintenance minder indicator
You can change the information ( ) remains on even if you MAINTENANCE SUB ITEM (S)
display from the engine oil life change the information display.
display to the odometer, the trip
meter, or the outside temperature Immediately have the service done,
every time you press and release the and make sure to reset the display as
TRIP button. described on the next page.

ENGINE OIL LIFE


INDICATOR
MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM

All maintenance items displayed on


the information display are in code.
For an explanation of these
maintenance codes, see page 168 .

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Maintenance Minder

Resetting the Engine Oil Life


Indicator
Your dealer will reset the display
after completing the required
maintenance service. You will see
‘‘OIL LIFE 100%’’ on the information
display the next time you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position.

If maintenance service is done by ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR
someone other than your dealer,
reset the maintenance minder as
follows: 3. Press the TRIP button for about 4. Press the TRIP button for about 5

Maintenance
10 seconds. The engine oil life seconds. The maintenance items
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON indicator and the maintenance code(s) will disappear, and the
(II) position. item code(s) will blink. engine oil life will reset to ‘‘100.’’

2. Press the TRIP button until the


engine oil life indicator is
displayed.

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Maintenance Minder

Important Maintenance Your authorized Honda dealer We recommend using Honda parts
Precautions knows your vehicle best and can and fluids whenever you have
If you have the required service provide competent, efficient service. maintenance done. These are
done but do not reset the display, or However, service at a dealer is not manufactured to the same high
reset the display without doing the mandatory to keep your warranties quality standards as the original
service, the system will not show the in effect. Maintenance may be done components, so you can be confident
proper maintenance intervals. This by any qualified service facility or of their performance and durability.
can lead to serious mechanical person who is skilled in this type of
problems because you will no longer automotive service. Make sure to
have an accurate record of when have the service facility or person
maintenance is needed. reset the display as previously
described. Keep all receipts as proof
of completion, and have the person
who does the work fill out your
Honda Service History or Canadian
Maintenance Log. Check your
warranty booklet for more
information.

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Maintenance Minder

U.S. Vehicles: Owner’s Maintenance Checks Lights − Check the operation of


Maintenance, replacement, or You should check the following the headlights, parking lights,
repair of emissions control items at the specified intervals. If taillights, high-mount brake light,
devices and systems may be done you are unsure of how to perform and license plate lights monthly.
by any automotive repair any check, turn to the appropriate See page 179 .
establishment or individual using page listed.
parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA Engine oil level − Check every
standards. time you fill the fuel tank. See
page 131 .
According to state and federal
regulations, failure to perform Engine coolant level − Check the
maintenance on the items marked radiator reserve tank every time
with # will not void your emissions you fill the fuel tank. See page 132 .
warranties. However, all

Maintenance
maintenance services should be Brakes and clutch − Check the
performed in accordance with the fluid level monthly. See page 178 .
intervals indicated by the
information display. Tires − Check the tire pressure
monthly. Examine the tread for
wear and foreign objects. See page
189 .

CONTINUED

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Maintenance Minder

Symbol Maintenance Main Items Symbol Maintenance Sub Items


A Replace engine oil*1 1 Check tire inflation and condition
B Replace engine oil and oil filter 2 Replace air cleaner element
Inspect front and rear brakes If you drive in dusty conditions, replace every 15,000
Check parking brake adjustment miles (24,000 km).
Inspect these items: Replace dust and pollen filter
Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and boots If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high
Suspension components concentrations of soot in the air from industry and
Driveshaft boots from diesel-powered vehicles, replace every 15,000
Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) miles (24,000 km).
Maintenance Minder

All fluid levels and condition of fluids Inspect drive belt


Exhaust system# 3 Replace transmission fluid
Fuel lines and connections# 4 Replace spark plugs
Check expiration date for tire sealant bottle*2 Inspect valve clearance
5 Replace engine coolant
*1 : If the message ‘‘SERVICE’’ does not appear more than 12 months after the 6 Replace rear differential fluid
display is reset, change the engine oil every year. Driving in mountainous areas results in higher level
of mechanical (shear) stress to fluid. This requires
*2 : CR models differential fluid changes more frequently than
recommended by the maintenance minder. If you
# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty on page 167 . regularly drive your vehicle under these conditions,
have the differential fluid changed every 15,000 miles
NOTE: Independent of the maintenance messages in the information display, (24,000 km).
replace the brake fluid every 3 years.
Inspect idle speed every 160,000 miles (256,000 km).
Adjust the valves during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 if they are noisy.

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Fluid Locations

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

WASHER FLUID CLUTCH FLUID


(Blue cap) (Gray cap)

BRAKE FLUID
(Black cap)
ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK
(Black handle)

Maintenance
ENGINE COOLANT
RESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP

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Adding Engine Oil

Recommended Engine Oil Make sure the API Certification Seal


Oil is major contributor to your says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’
engine’s performance and longevity.
Always use a premium-grade API CERTIFICATION SEAL
detergent oil displaying the API
certification seal. This seal indicates
the oil is energy conserving, and that
it meets the American Petroleum
Institute’s latest requirements. It is
highly recommended that you use
Honda motor oil in your vehicle for
as long as you own it.

Unscrew and remove the engine oil


fill cap on the valve cover. Pour in
the oil slowly and carefully so you do
not spill any. Clean up any spills
immediately. Spilled oil could
damage components in the engine
compartment. Reinstall the engine
oil fill cap, and tighten it securely.
Wait a few minutes, and recheck the
oil level on the engine oil dipstick.
Do not fill above the upper mark; you
could damage the engine.

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Adding Engine Oil, Changing the Oil and Filter

The oil’s viscosity or weight is Synthetic Oil Changing the Oil and Filter
provided on the container’s label. You may use a synthetic motor oil if Always change the oil and filter
Select the oil for your vehicle it meets the same requirements according to the maintenance
according to this chart. given for a conventional motor oil: it messages shown on the information
displays the API Certification Seal, display. The oil and filter collect
and it is the proper weight. You must contaminants that can damage your
follow the oil and filter change engine if they are not removed
intervals shown on the information regularly.
display.
Changing the oil and filter requires
Engine Oil Additives special tools and access from
Your vehicle does not require any oil underneath the vehicle. The vehicle
additives. Additives may adversely should be raised on a service station-
affect the engine or transmission type hydraulic lift for this service.

Maintenance
Ambient Temperature performance and durability. Unless you have the knowledge and
proper equipment, you should have
this maintenance done by a skilled
An oil with a viscosity of 10W-30 is mechanic.
preferred for optimum fuel economy
and year-round protection in your 1. Run the engine until it reaches
vehicle. You may use 5W-40 oil if the normal operating temperature,
temperature in your area goes below then shut it off.
0°F (−20°C).

CONTINUED

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Changing the Oil and Filter

5. Install a new oil filter according to


the instructions that come with it.

6. Put a new washer on the drain bolt,


then reinstall the drain bolt.
Tighten the drain bolt to:
29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)

7. Refill the engine with the


recommended oil.

WASHER OIL DRAIN BOLT OIL FILTER Engine oil change capacity
(including filter):
2. Open the hood, and remove the 3. Remove the oil filter, and let the 5.1 US qt (4.8 )
engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil remaining oil drain. A special
drain bolt and washer from the wrench (available from your 8. Install the engine oil fill cap. Start
bottom of the engine. Drain the oil dealer) is required. the engine. The oil pressure
into an appropriate container. indicator should go out within 5
4. Make sure the oil filter gasket is seconds. If it does not, turn off the
not stuck to the engine block. If it engine, and check your work.
is, remove it before installing a
new oil filter.

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Changing the Oil and Filter, Engine Coolant

9. Let the engine run for several Adding Engine Coolant If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not
minutes, then check the drain bolt available, you may use another
RESERVE TANK
and oil filter for leaks. major-brand non-silicate coolant as a
temporary replacement. Make sure it
10.Turn off the engine and let it sit is a high-quality coolant
for several minutes, then check recommended for aluminum engines.
the oil level on the dipstick. If Continued use of any non-Honda
necessary, add more oil. coolant can result in corrosion,
causing the cooling system to
malfunction or fail. Have the cooling
system flushed and refilled with
Improper disposal of engine oil can be Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as
harmf ul to the environment. If you MAX MIN possible.
change your own oil, please dispose of

Maintenance
the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed If the coolant level in the reserve
container and take it to a recycling tank is at or below the MIN line, add
center. Do not discard it in a trash bin coolant to bring it up to the MAX line.
or dump it on the ground. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

Always use Honda Long-Life


Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This
coolant is pre-mixed with 50 %
antifreeze and 50 % water. Never add
straight antifreeze or plain water.

CONTINUED

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Engine Coolant

If the reserve tank is completely 3. The coolant level should be up to


empty, you should also check the the base of the filler neck. Add
coolant level in the radiator. coolant if it is low.

Pour the coolant slowly and


carefully so you do not spill any.
Removing the radiator cap Clean up any spill immediately; it
while the engine is hot can could damage components in the
cause the coolant to spray out, engine compartment.
seriously scalding you.
4. Put the radiator cap on, and
Always let the engine and tighten it fully.
radiator cool down before RADIATOR CAP
removing the radiator cap. 5. Pour coolant into the reserve tank.
1. When the radiator and engine are Fill it to halfway between the MAX
cool, relieve any pressure in the and MIN marks. Put the cap back
cooling system by turning the on the reserve tank.
radiator cap counterclockwise,
without pressing down. Do not add any rust inhibitors or
other additives to your vehicle’s
2. Remove the radiator cap by cooling system. They may not be
pushing down and turning compatible with the coolant or
counterclockwise. engine components.

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Windshield Washers

Check the fluid level in the Fill the reservoir with a good-quality
windshield washer reservoir at least windshield washer fluid. This
monthly during normal use. increases the cleaning capability and Do not use engine antif reeze or a
prevents freezing in cold weather. vinegar/water solution in the
RESERVOIR CAP windshield washer reservoir. Antif reeze
When you refill the reservoir, clean can damage your vehicle’s paint, while
the edges of the windshield wiper a vinegar/water solution can damage
blades with windshield washer fluid the windshield washer pump. Use only
on a clean cloth. This will help to commercially-available windshield
condition them. washer f luid.

Maintenance
LEVEL GAUGE

Check the fluid level by looking at


the level gauge attached to the cap.

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Manual Transmission Fluid

FILLER BOLT Put a new washer on the filler bolt,


then reinstall the filler bolt and
tighten it securely.

If Honda MTF is not available, you


may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40
viscosity motor oil with the API
Certification seal that says ‘‘FOR
GASOLINE ENGINES’’ as a
temporary replacement. However,
motor oil does not contain the proper
CORRECT LEVEL additives, and continued use can
cause stiffer shifting. Replace as
Check the fluid level with the soon as it is convenient.
transmission at normal operating
temperature and the vehicle sitting The transmission should be drained
on level ground. Remove the and refilled with new fluid according
transmission filler bolt, and carefully to the intervals shown on the
feel inside the bolt hole with your information display.
finger. The fluid level should be up
to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is If you are not sure how to check and
not, add Honda Manual add fluid, contact your dealer.
Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it
starts to run out of the hole. Install
the filler bolt, and tighten it securely.

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Differential Fluid

FILLER BOLT
Use an SAE 90 viscosity hypoid gear
oil, API service classified GL5 or
GL6 only.

Put a new washer on the filler bolt,


then reinstall the filler bolt. Tighten
it securely. Tightening torque:
34 lbf·ft (46 N·m , 4.7 kgf·m)

The differential should be drained


WASHER
and refilled with new fluid according
CORRECT LEVEL to the intervals shown on the
information display.
Check the fluid level with the

Maintenance
differential at normal operating If you are not sure how to check and
temperature and the vehicle sitting add fluid, contact your dealer.
on level ground. Remove the
differential fluid filler bolt and
washer, and carefully feel inside the
bolt hole with your finger. The fluid
level should be up to the edge of the
bolt hole. If it is not, slowly add fluid
until it starts to run out of the hole.

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Brake and Clutch Fluid

Check the brake fluid level in the Brake Fluid Clutch Fluid
reservoirs monthly.
MAX
MAX
Replace the brake fluid according to
the time recommendation in the
maintenance schedule.

Always use Honda Heavy Duty


Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not
available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed
container, as a temporary MIN
replacement. MIN

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

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Lights

Headlight Aiming Replacing a Headlight Bulb Halogen bulbs are used for the high
The headlights were properly aimed The low beam headlight bulbs are a beam headlight bulbs. When
when your vehicle was new. If you type of high voltage discharge tube. replacing a high beam headlight bulb,
regularly carry heavy items in the High voltage can remain in the handle it by its base, and protect the
trunk, readjustment may be required. circuit even with the light switch off glass from contact with your skin or
Adjustment should be done by your and the key removed. Because of hard objects. If you touch the glass,
dealer or other qualified mechanic. this, you should not attempt to clean it with denatured alcohol and a
examine or change a low beam clean cloth.
headlight bulb yourself. If a low
beam headlight bulb fails, take the
vehicle to your dealer to have it
replaced. Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot
when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch
on the glass can cause the bulb to

Maintenance
overheat and shatter.

CONTINUED

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Lights

CONNECTOR BULB 6. Insert the socket back into the


headlight assembly. Make sure
the bulb is installed correctly by
looking through the headlight lens.
The pins on the base of the bulb
should fit in the holes in the
headlight assembly. Pivot the hold-
down wire back in place, and clip
the end into the slot.

7. Install the rubber seal over the


back of the headlight assembly.

1. Open the hood. 3. Remove the rubber weather seal 8. Push the electrical connector onto
If you need to change the high by pulling on the tab. the new bulb. Turn on the
beam headlight bulb on the driver’s headlights to test the new bulb.
side, remove the coolant reserve 4. Unclip the end of the hold-down
tank from its holder by pulling it wire from its slot. Pivot it out of 9. (Driver’s side)
straight up. the way, and remove the bulb Reinstall the coolant reserve tank.
socket.
2. Remove the electrical connector
from the bulb by squeezing the 5. Pull the bulb straight out of its
connector to unlock the tab, then socket. Push the new bulb straight
slide the connector off the bulb. into the socket until it bottoms.

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Lights

Replacing Front Turn Signal and


Side Marker/Parking Light Bulbs
1. If you are changing the bulb on
the driver’s side, start the engine,
turn the steering wheel all the way
to the right, then turn off the
engine. If you are changing the
bulb on the passenger’s side, turn
the steering wheel to the left.

2. Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to 6. Install the new bulb in the socket.

Maintenance
remove the three holding clips
from the inner fender. 7. Insert the socket back into the
headlight assembly. Turn it
3. Pull the inner fender cover back. clockwise to lock it in place.

4. Remove the socket from the 8. Turn on the lights to make sure
headlight assembly by turning it the new bulb is working.
one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
9. Put the inner fender cover in place.
5. Pull the bulb straight out of its Install the three holding clips.
socket. Lock each clip in place by pushing
on the center.

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Lights

Replacing a Side Turn Signal Bulb 3. Pull the bulb straight out of its
socket. Push the new bulb straight
LENS into the socket until it bottoms.

4. Put the bulb holder back into its


hole in the lens, and turn it
clockwise until it locks.

5. Turn on the lights to make sure


the new bulb is working.
BULB SOCKET 6. Put the side turn signal assembly
back into the body, front first.
Push on the back edge until it
1. Use a small flat-tipped screwdriver snaps into place.
to pry carefully on the back edge
of the side turn signal assembly
until it pops out of the body.

2. Turn the bulb holder one-quarter


turn counterclockwise to remove it
from the lens.

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Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs

SOCKET BULB

Maintenance
1. Open the trunk. 4. Determine which bulb is burned 5. Remove the socket by turning it
out: turn signal or back-up light. one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
2. Remove the fasteners from the
trunk lining. To remove a fastener, 6. Remove the burned out bulb by
push on the center of the head pulling it straight out of its socket.
until it pops in, then pull the
fastener out.

3. Pull the lining back.

CONTINUED

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Lights, Cleaning the Seat Belts

7. Install the new bulb into the Cleaning the Seat Belts
socket. If your seat belts get dirty, use a soft
brush with a mixture of mild soap
8. Push the socket into the light and warm water to clean them. Do
assembly, and turn it clockwise not use bleach, dye, or cleaning
until it locks. solvents. Let the belts air-dry before
you use the vehicle.
9. Turn on the lights to make sure
the new bulb is working. Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat
belt anchors can cause the belts to
retract slowly. Wipe the insides of
the loops with a clean cloth
dampened in mild soap and warm
water or isopropyl alcohol.
10.Install the trunk lining, and secure
it with the fasteners. To reinstall a
fastener, reset the fastener by
pushing on the pointed end until it
pops back almost flush with the
fingers on the housing. Put the
fastener in the hole of the trunk
lining, and push on the center until
it locks (the center is flush with
the head).

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Floor Mats, Dust and Pollen Filter, Audio Antenna

Floor Mats If you use a non-Honda floor mat, Audio Antenna


make sure it fits properly and that it (If equipped)
can be used with the floor mat
anchor. Do not put additional floor
mats on top of the anchored mat.

Dust and Pollen Filter


This filter removes the dust and
pollen that is brought in from the
outside through the heating and
cooling (if equipped) system.

Have your dealer replace the filter


when this service is indicated by a

Maintenance
The floor mats that came with your maintenance message on the
vehicle hook over the floor mat information display. It should be
anchors. This keeps them from replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000
sliding forward and possibly km) if you drive primarily in urban Your vehicle is equipped with an
interfering with vehicle operation. areas that have high concentrations antenna at the right rear f ender.
of soot in the air, or if the flow from Bef ore using a ‘‘drive-through’’ car
If you remove a floor mat, make sure the heating and cooling (if equipped) wash, remove the antenna by
to re-anchor it when you put it back system becomes less than usual. unscrewing it by hand. This prevents
in your vehicle. the antenna f rom being damaged by the
car wash brushes.

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Wiper Blades

Check the condition of the wiper


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

To replace a wiper blade:


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

2. Disconnect the blade assembly 3. Remove the blade from its holder
Do not open the hood when the wiper from the wiper arm by pushing in by grasping the tabbed end of the
arms are raised, or you will damage the the lock tab. Hold the lock tab in blade. Pull firmly until the tabs
hood and the wiper arms. while you push the blade assembly come out of the holder.
toward the base of the arm.

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Wiper Blades

6. Slide the wiper blade assembly


BLADE
onto the wiper arm. Make sure it
locks in place.

7. Lower the wiper arm down against


the windshield.

REINFORCEMENT

4. Examine the new wiper blades. If

Maintenance
they have no plastic or metal
reinforcement along the back
edge, remove the metal
reinforcement strips from the old
wiper blade, and install them in
the slots along the edge of the new
blade.

5. Slide the new wiper blade into the


holder until the tabs lock.

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Wheels, Tires

Wheels Tires Your vehicle is equipped with high


Clean the wheels as you would the To safely operate your vehicle, your performance summer tires. These
rest of the exterior. Wash them with tires must be the proper type and tires have a high-traction compound
the same solution, and rinse them size, in good condition with adequate and tread pattern to provide superior
thoroughly. tread, and correctly inflated. acceleration, cornering, and stopping
under most driving conditions.
Aluminum alloy wheels have a The following pages give more
protective clear-coat that keeps the detailed information on how to take However, these tires are not suitable
aluminum from corroding and care of your tires and what to do for driving on snow or ice, so all-
tarnishing. Cleaning the wheels with when they need to be replaced. season or winter tires must be
harsh chemicals (including some installed for winter driving
commercial wheel cleaners) or a stiff conditions.
brush can damage the clear-coat. To
clean the wheels, use a mild Using tires that are excessively See page 194 for Winter Driving.
detergent and a soft brush or sponge. worn or improperly inflated can
cause a crash in which you can
be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this


owner’s manual regarding tire
inflation and maintenance.

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Tires

Inflation Guidelines Even though your vehicle is If you check air pressures when the
Keeping the tires properly inflated equipped with TPMS, we tires are hot [driven for several miles
provides the best combination of recommend that you visually check (kilometers)], you will see readings 4
handling, tread life, and riding your tires every day. If you think a to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4
comfort. tire might be low, check it kgf/cm ) higher than the cold
immediately with a tire gauge. readings. This is normal. Do not let
Underinflated tires wear unevenly, air out to match the recommended
adversely affect handling and fuel Use a gauge to measure the air cold air pressure. The tire will be
economy, and are more likely to pressure in each tire at least once a underinflated.
fail from being overheated. month. Even tires that are in good
condition may lose 1 to 2 psi (10 to You should use your own tire
Overinflated tires can make your 20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per pressure gauge and use it whenever
vehicle ride more harshly, are month. Remember to check the you check your tire pressures. This
more prone to damage from road spare tire at the same time. will make it easier for you to tell if a

Maintenance
hazards, and wear unevenly. pressure loss is due to a tire problem
Check the air pressures when the and not due to a variation between
The tire pressure monitoring system tires are cold. This means the gauges.
(TPMS) warns you when a tire vehicle has been parked for at least 3
pressure is low. See page 154 for hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 While tubeless tires have some
more information. km). Add or release air, if needed, to ability to self-seal if they are
match the recommended cold tire punctured, you should look closely
pressures on page 190 . for punctures if a tire starts losing
pressure.

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Tires

Recommended Tire Pressures For convenience, the recommended TREAD WEAR INDICATORS
The following charts show the cold air pressures and tire sizes are
recommended cold tire pressures for on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.
most normal and high-speed driving
conditions. For additional information about
your tires, see page 238 .
Front:
Tire Size Cold Tire Pressure Tire Inspection
215/45R17 87W 32 psi (220 kPa , Every time you check inflation, you
2.2 kgf/cm ) should also examine the tires for
damage, foreign objects, and wear.
Rear: You should look for: INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS
Except CR models
Tire Size Cold Tire Pressure Bumps or bulges in the tread or Your tires have wear indicators
245/40R17 91W 32 psi (220 kPa , side of the tire. Replace the tire if molded into the tread. When the
2.2 kgf/cm ) you find either of these conditions. tread wears down, you will see a 1/2
inch (12.7 mm) wide band across the
CR models Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side tread. This shows there is less than
Tire Size Cold Tire Pressure of the tire. Replace the tire if you 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on
255/40R17 94W 32 psi (220 kPa , can see fabric or cord. the tire.
2.2 kgf/cm )
Excessive tread wear. A tire this worn gives very little
Except CR models traction on wet roads. You should
The compact spare tire pressure is: replace the tire if you can see three
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm ) or more tread wear indicators.

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Tires

Tire Service Life In addition to your regular Tire Maintenance


The service life of your tires is inspections and inflation pressure In addition to proper inflation,
dependent on many factors, maintenance, it is recommended that correct wheel alignment helps to
including, but not limited to, driving you have annual inspections decrease tire wear. If you find a tire
habits, road conditions, vehicle performed once the tires reach five is worn unevenly, have your dealer
loading, inflation pressure, years old. It is also recommended check the wheel alignment.
maintenance history, speed, and that all tires, including the spare, be
environmental conditions (even removed from service after 10 years Have your dealer check the tires if
when the tires are not in use). from the date of manufacture, you feel a consistent vibration while
regardless of their condition or state driving. A tire should always be
of wear. rebalanced if it is removed from the
wheel. When you have new tires
The last four digits of the TIN (tire installed, make sure they are
identification number) are found on balanced. This increases riding

Maintenance
the sidewall of the tire and indicate comfort and tire life. For best results,
the date of manufacture (See Tire have the installer perform a dynamic
Labeling on page 238 ). balance.

Improper wheel weights can damage


your vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Use
only Honda wheel weights f or
balancing.

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Tires

Tire Rotation The mileage you can expect from Replacing Tires and Wheels
You should not rotate your vehicle’s your vehicle tires is the same as Replace your tires with radial tires of
tires. The front and rear tires are comparable mid-and rear-engine the same size, load range, speed
different sizes, so they cannot be sports cars, and it will vary greatly rating, and maximum cold tire
rotated front-to-rear. The original- with your driving habits. pressure rating (as shown on the
equipment tires on your vehicle have tire’s side wall).
a unidirectional tread pattern, so If you drive moderately, the rear
they cannot be rotated side-to-side. tires could last more than 10,000 Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on
miles (16,000 km). However, the your vehicle can reduce braking
Tire Wear mileage will be substantially less if ability, traction, and steering
The tires that came on your vehicle you tend to drive your vehicle at the accuracy. Using tires of a different
were designed and constructed to upper limits of its capabilities. size or construction can cause the
provide superior grip during anti-lock brake and the vehicle
acceleration, braking, and cornering. You should carefully inspect your stability assist systems to work
vehicle’s tires for wear, damage, and inconsistently.
As a trade-off, they will wear more proper inflation every 7,500 miles
rapidly than tires used on ordinary (12,000 km) or when tire inspection It is best to replace all four tires at
passenger vehicles. Because of the is indicated on the information the same time. If that is not possible
vehicle’s weight distribution, and the display (see page 168 ). or necessary, replace the two front
fact that the rear wheels are the tires or two rear tires as a pair.
driving wheels, you can expect them Replacing just one tire can seriously
to wear more rapidly than the front affect your vehicle’s handling.
tires.

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Tires

The ABS works by comparing the Wheel and Tire Specifications


speed of the wheels. When replacing Wheels:
tires, use the same size originally Installing improper tires on your Front:
supplied with the vehicle. Tire size vehicle can affect handling and 17 x 7 J
and construction can affect wheel stability. This can cause a crash Rear:
speed and may cause the system to in which you can be seriously 17 x 8 1/2 J
activate. hurt or killed. Tires:
Front:
If you ever replace a wheel, make Always use the size and type of 215/45R17 87W
sure that the wheel’s specifications tires recommended in this Rear:
match those of the original wheels. owner’s manual. Except CR models
245/40R17 91W
Also be sure you use only TPMS CR models
specific wheels. If you do not, the 255/40R17 94W

Maintenance
tire pressure monitoring system will
not work on that tire. See page 236 for information about
DOT Tire Quality Grading, and page
Replacement wheels are available at 238 for tire size and labeling
your dealer. information.

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Tires

Winter Driving Snow Tires Because your vehicle has limited tire
Your vehicle is equipped with If you mount snow tires on your clearance, Honda strongly
summer tires. Be aware that these vehicle, make sure they are radial recommends using the chains listed
tires are not designed for winter tires of the same size and load range below.
driving conditions. as original tires. Mount snow tires on
all four wheels. The traction U.S. S2000 model
Tires marked ‘‘M + S’’ or ‘‘All provided by snow tires on dry roads Cable-type: Security Chain Company
Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- may be lower than your original tires. (SCC) Radial Chain SC1034
weather tread design suitable for Check with the tire dealer for
most winter driving conditions. maximum speed recommendations. Canadian model
For more information on snow tires, Cable-type: RUD 48493
For the best performance in snowy consult your dealer.
or icy conditions, you should install When installing cables, follow the
snow tires or tire chains. They may Tire Chains manufacturer’s instructions, and
be required by local laws under CR models only mount them as tight as you can.
certain conditions. Your vehicle’s tires are not suitable Make sure they are not contacting
for mounting any traction device. the brake lines or suspension. Drive
slowly with them installed. If you
Except CR models hear them coming into contact with
Mount tire chains on your tires when the body or chassis, stop and
required by driving conditions or investigate. Remove them as soon as
local laws. Install them only on the you begin driving on cleared roads.
rear tires.

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Tires

Using the wrong chains, or not


properly installing chains, can
damage the brake lines and
cause a crash in which you can
be seriously injured or killed.

Follow all instructions in this


owner’s manual regarding the
selection and use of tire chains.

Maintenance
Traction devices that are the wrong
size or improperly installed can
damage your vehicle’s brake lines,
suspension, body, and wheels. Stop
driving if they are hitting any part of
the vehicle.

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Checking the Battery

Check the terminals for corrosion (a If your vehicle’s battery is


white or yellowish powder). To disconnected, or goes dead, the
remove it, cover the terminals with a clock setting in the instrument panel
solution of baking soda and water. It will be canceled. To reset the time,
will bubble up and turn brown. When see page 56 .
this stops, wash it off with plain
water. Dry off the battery with a If your vehicle’s battery is
cloth or paper towel. Coat the disconnected, or goes dead, the
terminals with grease to help prevent audio system will disable itself. The
future corrosion. next time you turn on the radio, you
may see ‘‘CODE’’ (U.S. model) or
TEST INDICATOR WINDOW ‘‘Code’’ (Canadian model) in the
frequency display. Use the preset
Check the condition of the battery buttons to enter the code (see page
monthly by looking at the test 123 ).
indicator window. The label on the
battery explains the test indicator’s
colors.

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Checking the Battery

If additional battery maintenance is If you need to connect the battery to


needed, see your dealer or a a charger, disconnect both cables to
qualified technician. prevent damaging your vehicle’s
electrical system. Always disconnect
WARNING: Battery posts, the negative (−) cable first, and
terminals, and related accessories reconnect it last.
contain lead and lead compounds.
Wash your hands after handling.

The battery gives off explosive


hydrogen gas during normal
operation.

A spark or flame can cause the

Maintenance
battery to explode with enough
force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a


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

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Vehicle Storage

If you need to park your vehicle for Block the rear wheels. Cover the vehicle with a
an extended period (more than 1 ‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made
month), there are several things you If the vehicle is to be stored for a from a porous material such as
should do to prepare it for storage. longer period, it should be cotton. Non-porous materials, such
Proper preparation helps prevent supported on jackstands so the as plastic sheeting, trap moisture,
deterioration and makes it easier to tires are off the ground. which can damage the paint.
get your vehicle back on the road. If
possible, store your vehicle indoors. Leave one window open slightly (if If possible, periodically run the
the vehicle is being stored engine until it reaches full
Fill the fuel tank. indoors). operating temperature (the
cooling fan cycles on and off
Wash and dry the exterior Disconnect the battery. twice). Preferably, do this once a
completely. month.
Support the front wiper blade
Clean the interior. Make sure the arms with a folded towel or rag so
carpeting, floor mats, etc., are they do not touch the windshield.
completely dry.
To minimize sticking, apply a
Raise the convertible top cover. silicone spray lubricant to all door
and trunk seals. Also, apply a
Leave the parking brake off. Put vehicle body wax to the painted
the transmission in reverse. surfaces that mate with the door
and trunk seals.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more Compact Spare Tire....................... 200


common problems that motorists Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 201
experience with their vehicles. It Repairing a Flat Tire ..................... 206
gives you information about how to If the Engine Won’t Start .............. 212
safely evaluate the problem and what Jump Starting ................................. 214
to do to correct it. If the problem has If the Engine Overheats ............... 215
stranded you on the side of the road, Low Oil Pressure Indicator .......... 218
you may be able to get going again. Charging System Indicator........... 218
If not, you will also find instructions Malfunction Indicator Lamp ........ 219
on getting your vehicle towed. Brake System Indicator ................ 220
Closing the Convertible Top ........ 221
Fuses ............................................... 222
Checking and Replacing ........... 223
Fuse Locations ............................... 226
Emergency Towing ....................... 228
If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck ........... 228

Taking Care of the Unexpected


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Compact Spare Tire

Except CR models Do not use your compact spare INDICATOR LOCATION MARK
Use the compact spare tire as a tire on another vehicle unless it is
temporary replacement only. Get the same make and model.
your regular tire repaired or replaced,
and put it back on your vehicle as Do not mount the compact spare
soon as you can. tire on either rear wheel position;
it will damage the limited slip
Check the inflation pressure of the differential (see page 201 ).
compact spare tire every time you
check the other tires. It should be The low tire pressure indicator
inflated to: comes on and stays on after you
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm ) replace the flat tire with the TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR
compact spare tire. After several
Follow these precautions: miles (kilometers) driving with the Replace the tire when you can see
compact spare tire, the TPMS the tread wear indicator bars. The
Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h). indicator comes on and the low replacement should be the same size
tire pressure indicator goes off. and design tire, mounted on the
This tire gives a harsher ride and same wheel. The spare tire is not
less traction on some road designed to be mounted on a regular
surfaces. Use greater caution wheel, and the spare wheel is not
while driving. designed for mounting a regular tire.

Do not mount tire chains on the


compact spare tire.

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Changing a Flat Tire

Except CR models The size difference may also cause TOOL BOX LID
If you have a flat tire while driving, damage to the rear differential, so do
stop in a safe place to change it. not mount the compact spare on the
Drive slowly along the shoulder until rear. If either rear tire goes flat,
you get to an exit or an area to stop remove the front tire on that same
that is far away from the traffic lanes. side, mount the compact spare tire
on the front, then mount the front
tire on the rear.

The vehicle can easily roll off CR models


the jack, seriously injuring Your vehicle is equipped with the
anyone underneath. tire repair kit instead of the spare JACK
tire. This kit is available for easy
Follow the directions for repair of a flat tire (see page 206 ). 3. Open the trunk. Lift up the tool
changing a tire exactly, and box lid, and take the jack, the
never get under the vehicle 1. Park the vehicle on firm, level, and wheel nut wrench, and the

Taking Care of the Unexpected


when it is supported only by the non-slippery ground. Put the extension out of the tool box.
jack. transmission in reverse. Apply the
parking brake.

The compact spare tire is smaller 2. Turn on the hazard warning lights, Use the jack that came with your
than a standard tire, which will affect and turn the ignition switch to the vehicle. If you try to raise another
the vehicle’s handling. Drive LOCK (0) position. Have your vehicle with this jack or use another
cautiously when this spare is passenger get out of the vehicle jack to raise your vehicle, the vehicle or
mounted on your vehicle. while you change the tire. jack can be damaged.
CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

CLIPS

JACKING
POINT
SPARE TIRE COVER

4. Remove the three clips holding 5. Unscrew the wing bolt, and take 7. Place the jack under the jacking
the spare tire cover by pulling the the spare tire out of the spare tire point nearest the tire you need to
rings straight back. Remove the shelf. change. Turn the end bracket
spare tire cover. clockwise until the top of the jack
6. Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn contacts the jacking point. Make
with the wheel nut wrench. sure the center of the jacking
point tab is resting in the jack
notch.

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Changing a Flat Tire

EXTENSION BRAKE HUB

8. Use the extension and the wheel 9. Remove the wheel nuts, then 10.Before mounting the spare tire,
nut wrench as shown to raise the remove the flat tire. Handle the wipe any dirt off the mounting
vehicle until the flat tire is off the wheel nuts carefully; they may be surface of the wheel and hub with

Taking Care of the Unexpected


ground. hot from driving. Place the flat tire a clean cloth. Wipe the hub
on the ground with the outside carefully; it may be hot from
surface facing up. driving.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

11.Put on the spare tire. Put the 12.Lower the vehicle to the ground, 13.Tighten the wheel nuts securely in
wheel nuts back on finger-tight, and remove the jack. a crisscross pattern. Have the
then tighten them in a crisscross wheel nut torque checked at the
pattern with the wheel nut wrench nearest automotive service facility.
until the wheel is firmly against Tighten the wheel nuts to:
the hub. Do not try to tighten the 80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)
wheel nuts fully.

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Changing a Flat Tire

14.Remove the tool box from the


trunk well, and replace the jack,
wheel wrench, and extension in
the tool box.
CLIPS
15.Place the tool box into the spare
tire shelf in the trunk.

TOOL BOX SPARE TIRE COVER

16.Replace the spare tire cover. 17.Put the flat tire in the trunk well
Secure it with the three clips. Push vertically as shown.
each clip in securely, and pivot the

Taking Care of the Unexpected


ring down flat. 18.Your vehicle’s original tire has a
tire pressure monitoring system
sensor. To replace a tire, refer to
Changing a Tire with TPMS (see
page 155 ).

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Repairing a Flat Tire

How to Use the Tire Repair Kit If you have a flat tire while driving,
CR models only stop in a safe place, set the parking
To reduce weight, your vehicle is brake, and thoroughly examine the
equipped with a tire repair kit tire for a puncture or other damage.
instead of a spare tire. This kit will
allow you to temporarily repair a flat If a puncture is wider than 3/16ths
tire under the following conditions: of an inch (4 mm), or outside of the
tire tread, do not attempt to repair
Only one tire is flat. the tire. Have your vehicle towed to
a Honda service center.
The puncture is smaller than VALVE CAP
3/16ths of an inch (4 mm). If the damage is smaller than TIRE VALVE
3/16ths of an inch (4 mm) and
The puncture is located within the within the tire tread, proceed with 1. Position the vehicle so the tire
tread. the following instructions. valve on the flat tire is at the
bottom of the wheel, then remove
The wheel rim is not damaged. the tire valve cap.

When making a temporary repair,


carefully follow all instructions in
this owner’s manual and in the
instructions that came with the kit.

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Repairing a Flat Tire

TOOL BOX LID

TIRE REPAIR KIT EXPIRATION DATE

2. Open the trunk and remove the Your tire repair kit contains: 3. Remove the sealant bottle and
tire repair kit. check the expiration date on the
An air pump with a power cord label. If the date has expired, do

Taking Care of the Unexpected


and an air hose attached. not continue. Have your vehicle
towed to the nearest Honda
A bottle of sealant with a filler service center.
hose attached.
If the date has not expired, shake
Two labels, one for the tire wheel the bottle thoroughly and proceed
and one for the instrument panel. to step 4.

An instruction sheet.
CONTINUED

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Repairing a Flat Tire

BOTTLE CAP ADAPTER PLUG

AIR PUMP
BOTTLE
CAP

BOTTLE HOSE
TIRE VALVE AIR PUMP HOSE ACCESSORY SOCKET

4. Screw the sealant filler hose onto 5. Unscrew the bottle cap from the 7. Route the power cord into the
the tire valve. Make sure the bottle adapter. vehicle, and insert the plug into
bottle remains upright to ensure the accessory power socket.
all of the sealant flows into the tire. 6. Remove the air pump from the
repair kit, then screw the air pump 8. Turn the ignition switch to the
hose onto the bottle adapter. ACCESSORY (I) position.
Make sure the hose is secure.

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Repairing a Flat Tire

13.Push the deflate button on the air


AIR PUMP SWITCH AIR PRESSURE GAUGE
pump until the air pressure gauge
shows 0 psi.

OFF

ON

DEFLATE BUTTON

9. Turn the air pump switch ON. The overheat.


air pressure gauge will show 40 to
60 psi for the first few minutes, 11.Turn the ignition switch to the

Taking Care of the Unexpected


then the pressure will go down to LOCK (0) position.
about 10 to 20 psi.
12.Remove the sealant bottle hose
10.Inflate the tire to 32 psi, then turn from the tire valve, then reinstall
the air pump switch OFF. If the air the tire valve cap.
pressure exceeds 32 psi, push the
deflate button until the pressure
reaches the recommended level.
Do not use the air pump for more
than 15 minutes, or the pump may CONTINUED

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Repairing a Flat Tire

LABEL 18.Begin driving at no more than 50


mph (80 km/h).

19.After 10 minutes, stop safely and


use the air pump to check the
pressure in the tire (see page 207 ).

20.Your vehicle’s tire has a tire


pressure monitoring system
sensor. To repair a tire with the
tire repair kit, refer to Repairing
WHEEL LABEL a Tire with TPMS (see page 156 ).

14.Remove the wheel label from the 15.Remove the instrument panel label
repair kit and attach it to the from the repair kit and place it as
center of the wheel. shown above.

16.Remove the power plug from the


accessory power socket.

17.Return all items except the air


pump to the repair kit, and store
the kit in the tool box. Keep the air
pump handy as you will need it
soon.

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Repairing a Flat Tire

If the pressure is at 32 psi, continue In any case, be sure to have the


driving to the nearest service station. damaged tire permanently repaired
or replaced as soon as possible.
If the pressure is lower than 32 psi
and higher than 19 psi, use the air Remember to return the tire sealant
VALVE CAP TIRE VALVE pump to bring air to the desired level bottle to your Honda service center
as described in step 10. Then drive for proper disposal.
to the nearest service station.

If the pressure is below 19 psi, do not


continue. Have the vehicle towed
AIR PUMP HOSE (see page 228 ).

Remove the tire valve cap, screw the


air pump hose onto the tire valve,
and check the air gauge. (You do not

Taking Care of the Unexpected


need to attach the power cord or
turn the air pump switch on.)

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If the Engine Won’t Start

Diagnosing why the engine won’t Nothing Happens or the Starter Press the ENGINE START button,
start falls into two areas, depending Motor Operates Very Slowly then release it. If the headlights do
on what you hear when you press When you press the ENGINE not dim, check the condition of the
the ENGINE START button. START button, you do not hear the fuses. If the fuses are OK, there is
normal noise of the engine trying to probably something wrong with
You hear nothing, or almost start. You may hear a clicking sound the electrical circuit for the
nothing. The engine’s starter or series of clicks, or nothing at all. ignition switch or starter motor.
motor does not operate at all, or Check these things: You will need a qualified mechanic
operates very slowly. to determine the problem. (See
Check the transmission interlock. Emergency Towing on page 228 .)
You can hear the starter motor The clutch pedal must be pushed
operating normally, or the starter all the way to the floor or the
motor sounds like it is spinning starter will not operate.
faster than normal, but the engine
does not start up and run. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
(II) position. Turn on the
headlights, and check their
brightness. If the headlights are
very dim or do not come on at all,
the battery is discharged. See
Jump Starting on page 214 .

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If the Engine Won’t Start

If the headlights dim noticeably or The Starter Operates Normally There may be an electrical
go out when you try to start the In this case, the starter motor’s problem, such as no power to the
engine, either the battery is speed sounds normal, or even faster fuel pump. Check all the fuses
discharged or the connections are than normal, when you press the (see page 222 ).
corroded. Check the condition of the ENGINE START button, but the
battery and terminal connections engine does not run. If you find nothing wrong, you will
(see page 196 ). You can then try need a qualified mechanic to find the
jump starting the vehicle from a Are you using a properly coded problem. See Emergency Towing
booster battery (see page 214 ). key? An improperly coded key will on page 228 .
cause the immobilizer system
indicator in the instrument panel
to blink rapidly (see page 63 ).

Are you using the proper starting


procedure? Refer to Starting the
Engine on page 146 .

Taking Care of the Unexpected


Do you have fuel? Check the fuel
gauge; the low fuel indicator may
not be working.

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Jump Starting

Although this seems like a simple To jump start your vehicle:


procedure, you should take several
precautions. 1. Open the hood, and check the
physical condition of the battery.
In very cold weather, check the
condition of the electrolyte. If it
A battery can explode if you do seems slushy or frozen, do not try
not follow the correct procedure, jump starting until it thaws.
seriously injuring anyone
nearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames, If a battery sits in extreme cold, the
and smoking materials away electrolyte inside can f reeze.
from the battery. Attempting to jump start with a f rozen The numbers in the illustrations
battery can cause it to rupture. show you the order to connect the
jumper cables.
2. Turn off all the electrical
accessories: heater, A/C, audio 3. Connect one jumper cable to the
system, lights, etc. Put the positive (+) terminal on your
transmission in neutral, and set battery. Connect the other end to
the parking brake. the positive (+) terminal on the
booster battery.

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Jump Starting, If the Engine Overheats

5. If the booster battery is in another If the Engine Overheats


vehicle, have an assistant start The reading on your vehicle’s
that vehicle and run it at a fast idle. temperature gauge should stay in
the midrange under most conditions.
6. Start your vehicle. If the starter If it reaches the red mark, you
motor still operates slowly, check should determine the reason (hot
that the jumper cables have good day, driving up a steep hill, etc.).
metal-to-metal contact.
If your vehicle overheats, you should
7. Once your vehicle is running, take immediate action. The only
disconnect the negative cable from indication may be the temperature
your vehicle, then from the gauge reading reaching the red
booster battery. Disconnect the mark. Or you may see steam or
4. Connect the second jumper cable positive cable from your vehicle, spray coming from under the hood.
to the negative (−) terminal on then from the booster battery.
the booster battery. Connect the

Taking Care of the Unexpected


other end to the grounding strap Keep the ends of the jumper
as shown. Do not connect this cables away from each other and Driving with the temperature gauge
jumper cable to any other part of any metal on the vehicle until reading at the red mark can cause
the engine. everything is disconnected. serious damage to your engine.
Otherwise, you may cause an
electrical short.

CONTINUED

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If the Engine Overheats

1. Safely pull to the side of the road. 4. If the temperature gauge stays at
Put the transmission in neutral, the red mark, turn off the engine.
Steam and spray from an and set the parking brake. Turn
overheated engine can off the all accessories, and turn on 5. Look for any obvious coolant leaks,
seriously scald you. the hazard warning indicators. such as a split radiator hose.
Everything is still extremely hot,
Do not open the hood if steam 2. If you see steam and/or spray so use caution. If you find a leak, it
is coming out. coming from under the hood, turn must be repaired before you
off the engine. Wait until you see continue driving (see Emergency
no more signs of steam or spray, Towing on page 228 ).
then open the hood.
6. If you don’t find an obvious leak,
3. If you do not see steam or spray, check the coolant level in the
leave the engine running and radiator reserve tank. Add coolant
watch the temperature gauge. If if the level is below the MIN mark
the high heat is due to overloading, (see Adding Engine Coolant on
the engine should start to cool page 173 ).
down almost immediately. If it
does, wait until the temperature
gauge comes down to the midpoint,
then continue driving.

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If the Engine Overheats

7. If there was no coolant in the 8. Using gloves or a large heavy 10.Put the radiator cap back on
reserve tank, you may need to add cloth, turn the radiator cap tightly. Run the engine, and check
coolant to the radiator. Let the counterclockwise, without pushing the temperature gauge. If it goes
engine cool down until the reading down, to the first stop. After the back to the red mark, the engine
reaches the middle of the pressure releases, push down on needs repair (see Emergency
temperature gauge or lower the cap, and turn it until it comes Towing on page 228 ).
before checking the radiator. off.
11.If the temperature stays normal,
9. Start the engine, and set the check the coolant level in the
temperature control dial to radiator reserve tank. If it has
Removing the radiator cap maximum heat. Add coolant to the gone down, add coolant to the
while the engine is hot can radiator up to the base of the filler MAX mark. Put the cap back on
cause the coolant to spray out, neck. If you do not have the tightly.
seriously scalding you. proper coolant mixture available,
you can add plain water.
Always let the engine and Remember to have the cooling

Taking Care of the Unexpected


radiator cool down before system drained and refilled with
removing the radiator cap. the proper mixture as soon as you
can.

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Low Oil Pressure Indicator, Charging System Indicator

Low Oil Pressure 1. Safely pull off the road, and shut Charging System
Indicator off the engine. Turn on the hazard Indicator
This indicator should never come on warning indicators. If the charging system indicator
when the engine is running. If it comes on brightly when the engine
starts flashing or stays on, the oil 2. Let the vehicle sit for a minute. is running, the battery is not being
pressure has dropped very low or Open the hood, and check the oil charged.
lost pressure. Serious engine level (see page 131 ). An engine
damage is possible, and you should very low on oil can lose pressure Immediately turn off all electrical
take immediate action. during cornering and other driving accessories. Try not to use other
maneuvers. electrically operated controls such as
the power windows. Keep the engine
3. If necessary, add oil to bring the running; starting the engine will
Running the engine with low oil level back to the full mark on the discharge the battery rapidly.
pressure can cause serious mechanical dipstick (see page 170 ).
damage almost immediately. Turn of f Go to a service station or garage
the engine as soon as you can saf ely get 4. Start the engine, and watch the oil where you can get technical
the vehicle stopped. pressure indicator. If it does not go assistance.
out within 10 seconds, turn off the
engine. There is a mechanical
problem that needs to be repaired
before you can continue driving
(see Emergency Towing on page
228 ).

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp

If this indicator comes on If the indicator comes on repeatedly, If your vehicle’s battery has been
while driving, it means one even though it may go off as you disconnected or gone dead, these
of the engine’s emissions control continue driving, have your vehicle codes are erased. It can take several
systems may have a problem. Even checked by a dealer as soon as days of driving under various
though you may feel no difference in possible. conditions to set the codes again.
your vehicle’s performance, it can
reduce your fuel economy and cause To check if they are set, turn the
increased emissions. Continued ignition switch to the ON (II)
operation may cause serious damage. If you keep driving with the position, without starting the engine.
malf unction indicator lamp on, you can The malfunction indicator lamp will
If you have recently refueled your damage your vehicle’s emissions come on for 20 seconds. If it then
vehicle, the indicator coming on controls and engine. Those repairs may goes off, the readiness codes are set.
could be due to a loose or missing not be covered by your vehicle’s If it blinks five times, the readiness
fuel fill cap. You will also see a warranties. codes are not set. If possible, do not
‘‘CHECK FUEL CAP’’ message on take your vehicle for an emissions
the information display. Tighten the Readiness Codes test until the readiness codes are set.

Taking Care of the Unexpected


cap until it clicks at least once. Your vehicle has certain ‘‘readiness Refer to Emissions Testing for
Tightening the cap will not turn the codes’’ that are part of the on-board more information (see page 245 ).
indicator off immediately; it can take diagnostics for the emissions
several days of normal driving. systems. In some states, part of the
emissions testing is to make sure
these codes are set. If they are not
set, the test cannot be completed.

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Brake System Indicator

U.S. Canada The brake system However, if the brake pedal does not
indicator normally feel normal, you should take
comes on when immediate action. A problem in one
you turn the ignition switch to the part of the system’s dual circuit
ON (II) position, and as a reminder design will still give you braking at
to check the parking brake. It will two wheels. You will feel the brake
stay on if you do not fully release the pedal go down much farther before
parking brake. the vehicle begins to slow down, and
you will have to press harder on the
If the brake system indicator comes pedal.
on while driving, the brake fluid level
is probably low. Press lightly on the Slow down by shifting to a lower
brake pedal to see if it feels normal. gear, and pull to the side of the road
If it does, check the brake fluid level when it is safe. Because of the long
the next time you stop at a service distance needed to stop, it is
station (see page 178 ). hazardous to drive the vehicle. You
should have it towed and repaired as
If the fluid level is low, take your soon as possible (see Emergency
vehicle to a dealer, and have the Towing on page 228 ).
brake system inspected for leaks or
worn brake pads. If you must drive the vehicle a short
distance in this condition, drive
slowly and carefully.

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Closing the Convertible Top

Except CR models CONNECTOR


If the electric motor will not close
the convertible top, do the following.

1. Check the fuse for the convertible


top motor (see page 222 ). If the
fuse is blown, replace it with one
of the same or lower rating.

2. Try closing the convertible top. If


the new fuse blows immediately or
the convertible top still does not
operate, you can close it manually.
3. Locate the electrical connector for 4. Holding each corner of the
the convertible top motor. convertible top, raise the top and
It is under the lower corner of the push it forward as far as it will go.

Taking Care of the Unexpected


dashboard on the passenger’s side.
Disconnect the connector by 5. Follow steps 4 through 6 of the
pushing the tab and pulling the closing procedure on page 76 .
connector down.

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Fuses

The vehicle’s fuses are contained in UNDER-HOOD UNDER-HOOD


three fuse boxes. (PRIMARY) (AUXILIARY)

INTERIOR

KNOB The primary under-hood fuse box is The auxiliary under-hood fuse box is
on the passenger’s side next to the on the driver’s side, near the brake
The interior fuse box is underneath battery. To open it, push the two tabs fluid reservoir. To open it, push the
the dashboard on the driver’s side. as shown. tab on each side, and remove the lid.
To open it, turn the knob.

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Fuses

Checking and Replacing Fuses


If something electrical in your
vehicle stops working, check for a
blown fuse first. Determine from the
chart on pages 226 and 227 , or the
diagram on the fuse box lid, which
fuse or fuses control that device.
Check those fuses first, but check all
the fuses before deciding that a
blown fuse is the cause. Replace any
blown fuses, and check if the device BLOWN
works. FUSE PULLER

1. Turn the ignition switch to the 3. Check each of the large fuses in 4. Check the smaller fuses in the
LOCK (0) position. Make sure the the primary under-hood fuse box under-hood fuse boxes and all the
headlights and all other by looking through the top at the fuses in the interior fuse box by

Taking Care of the Unexpected


accessories are off. wire inside. Removing these fuses pulling out each one with the fuse
requires a Phillips-head puller provided in the interior fuse
2. Remove the cover from the fuse screwdriver. box.
box.

CONTINUED

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Fuses

If you cannot drive the vehicle


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

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Fuses

If the radio fuse is removed, the


audio system will disable itself. The
next time you turn on the radio you
will see ‘‘CODE’’ (U.S. model) or
‘‘Code’’ (Canadian model) in the
frequency display. Use the preset
buttons to enter the five-digit code
(see page 123 ).

If the fuse for the instrument panel


is removed, the clock setting in the
instrument panel will be canceled. To
reset the time, see page 56 .

Taking Care of the Unexpected


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Fuse Locations

INTERIOR FUSE BOX


No. Amps. Circuits Protected No. Amps. Circuits Protected

1 7.5 A Windshield Wiper, 14 10 A Daytime Running Lights


Auto Stop Signal 15 15 A Keyless Entry
2 15 A Washer Motor 16 7.5 A Back-up
3 7.5 A IGP (DBW) 17 7.5 A Interior Light
4 7.5 A IGP (LAF) 18 10 A Small Lights
5 10 A Accessory Socket 19 15 A Radio*
6 20 A Windshield Wiper 20 7.5 A TPMS
7 7.5 A Turn Signal Light 21 7.5 A Heater Control,
8 15 A ACG Cooling Fan Relay
9 7.5 A Meter, Backup Lights 22 7.5 A Power Mirrors
10 − Not used 23 20 A Right Power Window
11 7.5 A Engine Start 24 20 A Left Power Window
12 15 A Fuel Pump, SRS 25 15 A IG Coil
13 10 A SRS 26 15 A LAF
27 15 A DBW

* : if equipped

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Fuse Locations

UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOXES:


No. Amps. Circuits Protected No. Amps. Circuits Protected
PRIMARY FUSE BOX
1 − Lighting 1 Relay 14 − Magnetic Clutch Relay*2
2 − Lighting 2 Relay 15 20 A Right Headlight
3 − Horn Relay 16 15 A ACG S
4 40 A Power Window Motor 17 10 A Hazard Warning Lights
5 20 A Right Soft Top Motor*1 18 30 A Cooling Fan
6 20 A Accessory Socket 19 − Not used
7 30 A Backup ACC 20 15 A Stop
8 20 A Left Soft Top Motor*1 21 20 A Left Headlight
9 40 A Heater Motor 22 30 A VSA F/S
10 20 A Condenser Fan*2 23 30 A VSA Motor
11 20 A DBW 24 100 A Battery
12 − Condenser Fan Relay*2 25 40 A IG1 Main
13 − Cooling Fan Relay

Taking Care of the Unexpected


*1 : Except CR models
AUXILIARY FUSE BOX *2 : if equipped
No. Amps. Circuits Protected

1 20 A Rear Window Defogger


2 − Not used
3 70 A EPS
4 − Not used

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Emergency Towing, If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

Emergency Towing If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck To use the towing hook:
If your vehicle needs to be towed, If your vehicle gets stuck in sand, 1. Remove the cover from the
call a professional towing service or mud, or snow, call a towing service bumper.
organization. Never tow your vehicle to pull it out (see the previous
with just a rope or chain. It is very column).
dangerous.

The only way you can safely tow


your vehicle is with flat-bed
equipment. The operator will load
your vehicle on the back of a truck.
Any other method of towing will
damage the drive system. When you
contact the towing agency, inform
them a flat-bed is required.

2. Remove the towing hook, hook


extension, and wheel nut wrench
For very short distances, such as from the tool box.
freeing the vehicle, you can use the
detachable towing hook that mounts 3. Using the wheel nut wrench,
on the anchors in the front and rear fasten the extension into the bolt
bumpers. hole in the anchor.

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If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

TIRE WHEEL WRENCH

4. Screw the towing hook into the


extension, and tighten it securely
using the wheel nut wrench.

Taking Care of the Unexpected


To avoid damage to your vehicle, use
the towing hook f or straight, f lat
ground towing only. Do not tow at an
angle. The tow hook should not be used
to tow the vehicle onto a f lat bed. Do
not use it as a tie down.

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Technical Information

The diagrams in this section give Identification Numbers ................. 232 Emissions Controls........................ 242
you the dimensions and capacities of Specifications ................................. 234 The Clean Air Act ...................... 242
your vehicle and the locations of the DOT Tire Quality Grading Crankcase Emissions Control
identification numbers. It also (U.S. Vehicles) ....................... 236 System..................................... 242
includes information you should Uniform Tire Quality Evaporative Emissions Control
know about your vehicle’s tires and Grading ................................... 236 System..................................... 242
emissions control systems. Treadwear .................................. 236 Onboard Refueling Vapor
Traction....................................... 236 Recovery ................................. 242
Temperature .............................. 237 Exhaust Emissions Controls .... 243
Tire Labeling .................................. 238 PGM-FI System ..................... 243
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Ignition Timing Control
(TPMS) − Required Federal System................................. 243
Explanation............................. 240 Three Way Catalytic
Converter ............................ 243
Replacement Parts..................... 243
Three Way Catalytic Converter ... 244
Emissions Testing ......................... 245

Technical Information
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Identification Numbers

Your vehicle has several identifying


numbers located in various places. VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

The vehicle identification number


(VIN) is the 17-digit number your
dealer uses to register your vehicle
for warranty purposes. It is also
necessary for licensing and insuring
your vehicle. The easiest place to
find the VIN is on a plate fastened to
the top of the dashboard. You can
see it by looking through the
windshield on the driver’s side. It is
also on the certification label
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 on


the front right corner of the engine TRANSMISSION NUMBER
block, below the valve cover.

The transmission number is on a


label underneath the transmission.

Technical Information
ENGINE NUMBER

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Specifications

Dimensions Seating Capacities


Length 162.0 in (4,115 mm) Total 2
Width 68.9 in (1,750 mm) Front 2
Height 50.6 in (1,285 mm)
Wheelbase 94.5 in (2,400 mm) Capacities
Track Front 57.9 in (1,470 mm) Fuel tank 13.2 US gal (50 )
Rear 59.4 in (1,510 mm) Engine coolant
Change*1 1.72 US gal (6.5 )
Weights Total 2.01 US gal (7.6 )
Gross vehicle weight rating See the certification label attached Engine oil Change*2
(GVWR) to the driver’s doorjamb. Including filter 5.1 US qt (4.8 )
Without filter 4.8 US qt (4.5 )
Engine Total 5.9 US qt (5.6 )
Type Water cooled 4-stroke DOHC Manual Change 1.6 US qt (1.5 )
VTEC 4-cylinder gasoline engine transmission Total 1.7 US qt (1.6 )
Bore x Stroke 3.43 x 3.57 in (87.0 x 90.7 mm) fluid
Displacement 132 cu-in (2,157 cm ) Differential Change 0.78 US qt (0.74 )
Compression ratio 11.1 : 1 fluid Total 0.81 US qt (0.77 )
Spark plugs NGK : PFR7G-11S Windshield U.S. Vehicles 2.6 US qt (2.5 )
DENSO : PK22PR-L11S washer Canadian 6.3 US qt (6.0 )
+ 0 mm
Spark Plug Gap 0.04 in (1.1 mm)− 0.1 mm reservoir Vehicles

*1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the
engine
Reserve tank capacity:
0.16 US gal (0.6 )
*2 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine

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Specifications

Lights Battery
Headlights High 12 V − 55 W (H1) Capacity 12 V − 36 AH/5 HR
Low*1 12 V − 35 W 12 V − 45 AH/20 HR
Front turn signal lights 12 V − 21 W
Rear turn signal lights 12 V − 21 W Fuses
Front side marker/ 12 V − 5 W(AMBER) Under-hood See page 227 or the fuse box
parking lights cover.
Back-up lights 12 V − 21 W Interior See page 226 or the fuse label
License plate light 12 V − 5W attached to the inside of the fuse
Interior light 12 V − 5W box door under the dashboard.
Trunk light 12 V − 5W
Side turn signal lights 12 V − 5W Alignment
Toe Front 0.00 in (0.0 mm)
* : On vehicles with high voltage discharge type headlights, Rear in 0.15 in (3.7 mm) *1
replacement of a headlight bulb should be performed by your dealer. in 0.22 in (5.6 mm) *2
Camber Front −0°30’
Air conditioning Rear −1°30’
Refrigerant type HFC-134a (R-134a) Caster Front 6°
Charge quantity 21.2−22.9 oz (600−650 g)
Lubricant type SP-10 Tires

Technical Information
Size Front 215/45R17 87W
Rear 245/40R17 91W*1
255/40R17 94W*2
Spare Tire*1 T125/70D16 96M
Pressure Front 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )
Rear 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )
Spare Tire*1 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

*1 : Except CR models
*2 : CR models

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DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

The tires on your vehicle meet all Treadwear Traction


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

All passenger car tires must conform


to Federal Safety Requirements in
addition to these grades.

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DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Temperature Warning: The temperature grade for


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

Technical Information
laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.

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Tire Labeling

The tires that came on your vehicle Tire Size 87 − Load index (a numerical code
have a number of markings. Those Whenever tires are replaced, they associated with the maximum
you should be aware of are described should be replaced with tires of the load the tire can carry).
below. same size. Following is an example
of tire size with an explanation of W − Speed symbol (an
Tire Labeling Example what each component means. alphabetical code indicating
(1) the maximum speed rating).
215/45R17 87W
Tire Identification Number (TIN)
215 − Tire width in millimeters. The tire identification number (TIN)
is a group of numbers and letters
45 − Aspect ratio (the tire’s section that look like the following example.
height as a percentage of its TIN is located on the sidewall of the
width). tire.

R − Tire construction code (R DOT B97R FW6X 2202


indicates radial).
DOT − This indicates that the tire
(4) (1) 17 − Rim diameter in inches. meets all requirements of
the U.S. Department of
(3) (2) Transportation.
(1) Tire Size
(2) Tire Identification Number (TIN) B97R − Manufacturer’s
(3) Maximum Tire Pressure identification mark.
(4) Maximum Tire Load

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Tire Labeling

FW6X − Tire type code.

2202 − Date of manufacture.


Year
Week

Maximum Tire Pressure


Max Press − The maximum air
pressure the tire can
hold.

Maximum Tire Load


Max Load − The maximum load the
tire can carry at
maximum air pressure.

Technical Information
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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) − Required Federal Explanation

Each tire, including the spare (if As an added safety feature, your Driving on a significantly under-
provided), should be checked vehicle has been equipped with a tire inflated tire causes the tire to
monthly when cold and inflated to pressure monitoring system (TPMS) overheat and can lead to tire failure.
the inflation pressure recommended that illuminates a low tire pressure Under-inflation also reduces fuel
by the vehicle manufacturer on the telltale efficiency and tire tread life, and may
vehicle placard or tire inflation affect the vehicle’s handling and
pressure label. stopping ability.

(If your vehicle has tires of a when one or more of your tires is Please note that the TPMS is not a
different size than the size indicated significantly under-inflated. substitute for proper tire
on the vehicle placard or tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s
inflation pressure label, you should Accordingly, when the low tire responsibility to maintain correct tire
determine the proper tire inflation pressure telltale illuminates, you pressure, even if under-inflation has
pressure for those tires.) should stop and check your tires as not reached the level to trigger
soon as possible, and inflate them to illumination of the TPMS low tire
the proper pressure. pressure telltale.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) − Required Federal Explanation

Your vehicle has also been equipped Always check the TPMS malfunction
with a TPMS malfunction indicator telltale after replacing one or more
to indicate when the system is not tires or wheels on your vehicle to
operating properly. The TPMS ensure that the replacement or
malfunction indicator is provided by alternate tires and wheels allow the
a separate telltale, which displays the TPMS to continue to function
symbol ‘‘TPMS’’ when illuminated. properly.

When the malfunction indicator is


illuminated,

the system may not be able to detect


or signal low tire pressure as
intended.

TPMS malfunctions may occur for a


variety of reasons, including the

Technical Information
installation of replacement or
alternate tires or wheels on the
vehicle that prevent the TPMS from
functioning properly.

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Emissions Controls

The burning of gasoline in your The Clean Air Act intake manifold. They are then
vehicle’s engine produces several by- The United States Clean Air Act* drawn into the engine and burned.
products. Some of these are carbon sets standards for automobile
monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen emissions. It also requires that Evaporative Emissions Control
(NOx), and hydrocarbons (HC). automobile manufacturers explain to System
Gasoline evaporating from the tank owners how their emissions controls As gasoline evaporates in the fuel
also produces hydrocarbons. work and what to do to maintain tank, an evaporative emissions
Controlling the production of NOx, them. This section summarizes how control canister filled with charcoal
CO, and HC is important to the the emissions controls work. adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this
environment. Under certain canister while the engine is off. After

conditions of sunlight and climate, In Canada, Honda vehicles comply the engine is started and warmed up,
NOx and HC react to form with the Canadian emission the vapor is drawn into the engine
photochemical ‘‘smog.’’ Carbon requirements, as specified in an and burned during driving.
monoxide does not contribute to agreement with Environment
smog creation, but it is a poisonous Canada, at the time they are Onboard Refueling Vapor
gas. manufactured. Recovery
The onboard refueling vapor
Crankcase Emissions Control recovery (ORVR) system captures
System the fuel vapors during refueling. The
Your vehicle has a positive vapors are adsorbed in a canister
crankcase ventilation system. This filled with activated carbon. While
keeps gasses that build up in the driving, the fuel vapors are drawn
engine’s crankcase from going into into the engine and burned off.
the atmosphere. The positive
crankcase ventilation valve routes
them from the crankcase back to the

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Emissions Controls

Exhaust Emissions Controls Ignition Timing Control System Replacement Parts


The exhaust emissions controls This system constantly adjusts the The emissions control systems are
include three systems: PGM-FI, ignition timing, reducing the amount designed and certified to work to-
ignition timing control, and three of HC, CO, and NOx produced. gether in reducing emissions to
way catalytic converter. These three levels that comply with the Clean Air
systems work together to control the Three Way Catalytic Converter Act. To make sure the emissions
engine’s combustion and minimize The three way catalytic converter is remain low, you should use only new
the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that in the exhaust system. Through Honda replacement parts or their
comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust chemical reactions, it converts HC, equivalent for repairs. Using lower
emissions control systems are CO, and NOx in the engine’s exhaust quality parts may increase the
separate from the crankcase and to carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen emissions from your vehicle.
evaporative emissions control (N2), and water vapor.
systems. The emissions control systems are
covered by warranties separate from
PGM-FI System the rest of your vehicle. Read your
The PGM-FI System uses sequential warranty manual for more informa-
multiport fuel injection. tion.
It has three subsystems: air intake,

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

The three way catalytic converter THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER


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

Always use unleaded gasoline.


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

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Emissions Testing

Testing of Readiness Codes If the testing facility determines that 4. Without touching the accelerator
If you take your vehicle for an the readiness codes are not set, you pedal, start the engine, and let it
emissions test shortly after the will be requested to return at a later idle for 20 seconds.
battery has been disconnected or date to complete the test. If you must
gone dead, it may not pass the test. get the vehicle retested within the 5. Keep the vehicle in Neutral.
This is because of certain ‘‘readiness next two or three days, you can Increase the engine speed to 2,000
codes’’ that must be set in the on- condition the vehicle for retesting by rpm, and hold it there until the
board diagnostics for the emissions doing the following. temperature gauge rises to at least
systems. These codes are erased 1/4 of the scale (about 3 minutes).
when the battery is disconnected, 1. Make sure the gas tank is nearly,
and set again only after several days but not completely, full (around 6. Without touching the accelerator
of driving under a variety of 3/4). pedal, let the engine idle for 20
conditions. seconds.
2. Make sure the vehicle has been
parked with the engine off for 6
hours or more.

3. Make sure the ambient

Technical Information
temperature is between 40° and
95°F (4° and 35°C).

CONTINUED

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Emissions Testing

7. Select a nearby lightly traveled 8. Then drive in city/suburban


major highway where you can traffic for at least 10 minutes.
maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph When traffic conditions allow, let
(80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20 the vehicle coast for several
minutes. Drive on the highway in seconds without using the
6th. Do not use the cruise control. accelerator pedal or the brake
When traffic allows, drive for 90 pedal.
seconds without moving the
accelerator pedal. (Vehicle speed 9. Make sure the vehicle has been
may vary slightly; this is okay.) If parked with the engine off for 30
you cannot do this for a minutes.
continuous 90 seconds because of
traffic conditions, drive for at least If the testing facility determines the
30 seconds, then repeat it two readiness codes are still not set, see
more times (for a total of 90 your dealer.
seconds).

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Warranty and Customer Relations

Customer Service Information..... 248


Warranty Coverages ..................... 249
Reporting Safety Defects
(U.S. Vehicles) ........................... 250
Authorized Manuals ...................... 251

Warranty and Customer Relations


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Customer Service Information

Honda dealership personnel are Canadian Owners: When you call or write, please give
trained professionals. They should Customer Relations us this information:
be able to answer all your questions. Honda Canada Inc.
If you encounter a problem that your 715 Milner Avenue Vehicle identification number (see
dealership does not solve to your Toronto, ON page 232 )
satisfaction, please discuss it with M1B 2K8
the dealership’s management. The Name and address of the dealer
service manager or general manager Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9 who services your vehicle
can help. Almost all problems are Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909
solved in this way. Toronto (416) 287-4776 Date of purchase

If you are dissatisfied with the In Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Mileage on your vehicle
decision made by the dealership’s Islands:
management, contact your Honda Vortex Motor Corp. Your name, address, and
Customer Service Office. Bella International telephone number
P.O. Box 190816
U.S. Owners: San Juan, PR 00919-0816 A detailed description of the
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. problem
Automobile Customer Service Tel: (787) 620-7546
Mail Stop 500-2N-7A Name of the dealer who sold the
1919 Torrance Boulevard vehicle to you
Torrance, California 90501-2746

Tel: (800) 999-1009

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Warranty Coverages

U.S. Owners Seat Belt Limited Warranty − a seat Replacement Battery Limited
Your new vehicle is covered by these belt that fails to function properly is Warranty − provides prorated
warranties: covered by a limited warranty. coverage for a replacement battery
Please read your warranty booklet purchased from your dealer.
New Vehicle Limited Warranty − for details.

Warranty and Customer Relations


covers your new vehicle, except for Replacement Muffler Lifetime
the battery, emissions control Rust Perforation Limited Limited Warranty − provides
systems, and accessories, against Warranty − all exterior body panels coverage for as long as the pur-
defects in materials and are covered for rust-through from chaser of the muffler owns the
workmanship. the inside for the specified time vehicle.
period with no mileage limit.
Emissions Control Systems Defects Restrictions and exclusions apply to
Warranty and Emissions Accessory Limited Warranty − all these warranties. Please read the
Performance Warranty − these two Honda accessories are covered 2008 Honda warranty information
warranties cover your vehicle’s under this warranty. Time and booklet that came with your vehicle
emissions control systems. Time, mileage limits depend on the type of for precise information on warranty
mileage, and coverage are accessory and other factors. Please coverages. Your vehicle’s original
conditional. Please read your read your warranty booklet for tires are covered by their
warranty booklet for exact details. manufacturer. Tire warranty
information. information is in a separate booklet.
Replacement Parts Limited
Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty − covers all Honda Canadian Owners
Warranty − this warranty gives up replacement parts against defects in Please refer to the 2008 warranty
to 100% credit toward a replacement materials and workmanship. manual that came with your vehicle.
battery.

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Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

If you believe that your vehicle has a If NHTSA receives similar com- To contact NHTSA, you may call the
defect which could cause a crash or plaints, it may open an investigation, Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at
could cause injury or death, you and if it finds that a safety defect 1-888-327-4236
should immediately inform the exists in a group of vehicles, it may (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to
National Highway Traffic Safety order a recall and remedy campaign. http://www.saf ercar.gov; or write to:
Administration (NHTSA) in addition However, NHTSA cannot become Administrator, NHTSA, 1200 New
to notifying American Honda Motor involved in individual problems Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC
Co., Inc. between you, your dealer, or 20590.
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. You can also obtain other
information about motor vehicle
safety from http://www.saf ercar.gov.

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Main Menu

Authorized Manuals

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only) Service Manual:


The publications shown below can be purchased from Helm Covers maintenance and recommended procedures for
Incorporated. You can order by phone or online: repair to engine and chassis components. It is written
Call Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356 (credit card orders only) for the journeyman mechanic, but it is simple enough
Go online at www. helminc. com for most mechanically inclined owners to understand.
If you are interested in other years or models, contact Helm Inc.
at 1-800-782-4356. Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:
Complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth
Publication Form Description troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit
Form Number in your vehicle.
61S2A08 2000-2008 Honda S2000 Service Manual
61S2A08EL 2000-2008 Honda S2000 Body Repair Manual:

Authorized Manuals
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual Describes the procedures involved in the replacement
61S2A30 2000-2008 Honda S2000 Body Repair Manual of damaged body parts.
31S2A680 2008 Honda S2000 Owner’s Manual
31S2AM30 2008 Honda S2000 Honda Service History
31S2AQ50 2008 Honda S2000 Quick Start Guide
HON-R Order Form for Previous Years-Indicate
Year and Model Desired

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Index

A B Bulb Replacement.......................... 179


Back-up Lights ........................... 183
Accessories..................................... 136 Back-up Light Replacement ......... 183 Headlights .................................. 179
ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Battery Side Turn Signal Lights ............ 182
Position) ........................................ 64 Charging System Specifications ............................. 235
Accessory Power Socket ................ 90 Indicator............................ 46, 218 Turn Signal Lights ..................... 181
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 170 Jump Starting ............................. 214 Bulbs, Halogen ............................... 179
Airbag (SRS) ................................ 9, 20 Maintenance ............................... 195
Air Conditioning System......... 96, 100 Specifications ............................. 235 C
Usage .................................... 98, 102 Before Driving ............................... 127
Air Pressure, Tires ........................ 190 Belts, Seat ..................................... 8, 16 Capacities Chart............................. 234
Alcohol in Gasoline ........................ 128 Beverage Holder .............................. 90 Carbon Monoxide Hazard .............. 41
AM/FM Stereo Radio Booster Seats ................................... 38 Cargo, How to Carry ..................... 138
Reception .................................... 107 Brakes ............................................. 149 CAUTION, Explanation of .............. iii
Antifreeze ....................................... 173 Anti-lock System (ABS) ............ 150 CD Care .......................................... 117
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Break-in, New Linings .............. 128 CD Changer.................................... 116
Indicator ................................ 45, 151 Fluid ............................................ 178 CD Changer Error Messages ...... 121
Operation .................................... 150 Parking .......................................... 88 CD Player Error Messages .......... 120
Anti-theft Steering Column Lock .. 64 System Design ........................... 150 CD Player........................................ 114
Anti-theft System ........................... 123 System Indicator .................. 46, 226 Certification Label ......................... 232
Audio Panel....................................... 91 Wear Indicators ......................... 150 Chains, Tires .................................. 194
Audio System ................................. 104 Braking System.............................. 149 Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 201
Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners .... 18 Break-in, New Vehicle .................. 128

INDEX
Automatic Speed Control.............. 124 Brightness Control, Instruments ... 60
Brights, Headlights ......................... 59
CONTINUED

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Index

Changing Oil Wind Deflector............................. 75 Dimensions ..................................... 234


How to ......................................... 171 Coolant Dimming the Headlights ................ 59
When to....................................... 161 Adding ......................................... 173 Dipstick
Charging System Indicator .... 46, 218 Checking ..................................... 132 Engine Oil ................................... 131
Checklist, Before Driving ............. 145 Proper Solution .......................... 173 Directional Signals ........................... 59
Child Safety ...................................... 29 Temperature Gauge .................... 55 Disc Brake Wear Indicators ......... 150
Booster Seats ............................... 38 Crankcase Emission Control Disposal of Used Oil ...................... 173
Child Seats .................................... 34 System......................................... 242 Do Not Tow a Trailer .................... 153
Important Safety Reminders ...... 32 Cruise Control Indicator ................. 47 Doors
Larger Children ........................... 37 Cruise Control Operation ............. 124 Locking and Unlocking ............... 65
Risk with Airbags ........................ 30 Cup Holder ....................................... 90 Monitor Indicator ........................ 47
Small Children.............................. 33 Customer Service Office .............. 248 Power Door Locks ....................... 65
Child Seats ........................................ 34 DOT Tire Quality Grading* ......... 236
Cleaning Seat Belts........................ 184 D Downshifting, Manual
Clock.................................................. 56 Transmission .............................. 147
Clutch Fluid .................................... 178 DANGER, Explanation of ................ iii Driver and Passenger Safety ............ 5
CO in the Exhaust ......................... 242 Dashboard .................................... 3, 44 Driving ............................................ 143
Cold Weather, Starting in ............. 146 Dashboard Lower Pocket ............... 92 Economy ..................................... 133
Compact Spare Tire....................... 200 Daytime Running Lights................. 59 Driving Guidelines ......................... 144
Consumer Information*................ 248 Daytime Running Lights Dust and Pollen Filter ................... 185
Controls, Instruments and .............. 43 Indicator ........................................ 48
Convertible Top ............................... 72 Dead Battery .................................. 214 E
Convertible Top Cover ................ 74 Defects, Reporting Safety* .......... 250
Lowering the Convertible Top ... 72 Defogger, Rear Window ................. 61 Economy, Fuel ............................... 133
Maintenance ................................. 77 Defrosting the Windows......... 99, 103
Raising the Convertible Top ...... 76 Differential Fluid ........................... 177

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Index

Emergencies................................... 199 Oil Pressure Indicator ......... 46, 218 Clutch .......................................... 178
Battery, Jump Starting .............. 214 Oil, What Kind to Use ............... 170 Manual Transmission ............... 176
Brake System Indicator ............ 220 Overheating................................ 215 Windshield Washer ................... 175
Changing a Flat Tire ................. 201 Specifications ............................. 234 Four-way Flashers ........................... 60
Charging System Indicator ...... 218 Speed Limiter ............................. 148 Fuel .................................................. 128
Checking the Fuses................... 223 Start Button ................................ 146 Fill Door and Cap....................... 129
Closing the Convertible Top .... 221 Starting........................................ 146 Gauge ............................................ 54
Hazard Warning Flashers .......... 60 Ethanol in Gasoline ....................... 128 Low Fuel Indicator ...................... 49
Jump Starting ............................. 214 Evaporative Emission Controls .... 242 Octane Requirement ................. 128
Low Oil Pressure Indicator ...... 218 Exhaust Fumes ................................ 41 Oxygenated ................................ 128
Malfunction Indicator Lamp .... 210 Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat Tank, Refueling ......................... 129
Overheated Engine ................... 215 Belts by ......................................... 14 Fuel Economy ................................ 133
Towing ........................................ 228 Fuel Station Procedures ............... 129
Emergency Brake ............................ 88 F Fuses, Checking the ...................... 223
Emergency Flashers ....................... 60
Emergency Towing ....................... 228 Fan, Interior ............................. 97, 101 G
Emergency Trunk Opener ............. 66 Features ............................................ 95
Emissions Controls........................ 242 Filling the Fuel Tank ..................... 129 Gas Mileage, Improving................ 133
Emissions Testing, State .............. 245 Filters Gasoline .......................................... 128
Engine Dust and Pollen .......................... 185 Gauge ............................................ 54
Adding Engine Coolant ............. 173 Oil ................................................ 171 Low Fuel Indicator ...................... 49
Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 55 Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 60 Octane Requirement ................. 128
If It Won’t Start .......................... 212 Flat Tire, Changing a .................... 201 Tank, Refueling ......................... 129

INDEX
Malfunction Indicator Flat Tire, Repairing a .................... 206
Lamp ................................. 47, 219 Fluids
Oil Life Indicator........................ 161 Brake ........................................... 178 CONTINUED

2008 S2000 III


07/07/25 18:00:46 31S2A680 0261 

Main Menu

Index

Gauges .............................................. 53 Heating and Cooling System .. 96, 100 EPS (Electrical Power
Engine Coolant Temperature .... 55 High Beam Lever............................. 59 Steering) ................................... 48
Fuel ................................................ 54 Hood, Opening the ........................ 130 High Beam.................................... 49
Gearshift Lever Positions Horn................................................... 57 Key (Immobilizer System) ......... 49
Manual Transmission ............... 148 Hydraulic Clutch ............................ 178 Low Fuel ....................................... 49
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Low Oil Pressure ................. 46, 218
(GVWR) .............................. 139, 234 I Low Tire Pressure ............... 51, 240
Maintenance Required................ 50
H Identification Number, Malfunction Indicator
Vehicle ........................................ 232 Lamp ................................. 47, 219
Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 179 Ignition Peak Power ................................... 52
Hardtop, Removable ........................ 78 Keys............................................... 62 Seat Belt ........................................ 46
Installation .................................... 79 Switch ............................................ 64 SRS ................................................ 47
Removal ........................................ 84 Timing Control System ............. 243 TPMS System ............................ 240
Storing ........................................... 86 Immobilizer System......................... 63 Trunk-open ................................... 47
Washing ........................................ 86 Important Safety Precautions .......... 6 Turn Signal and Hazard
Wind Deflecter............................. 75 Indicators Warning .................................... 48
Hazard Warning Flashers............... 60 ABS (Anti-Lock Brake)............... 47 VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) ... 50
Headlights Brake (Parking and Brake Indicators, Instrument Panel .......... 46
Aiming ......................................... 179 System) ............................. 46, 220 Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 189
Daytime Running Lights............. 59 Charging System ................. 46, 220 Recommended Pressures ......... 190
High Beam Indicator ................... 49 Cruise Control .............................. 47 Inside Mirror .................................... 87
Reminder Tone ............................ 59 Door-open ..................................... 47 Inspection, Tire .............................. 190
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 199 DRL(Daytime Running Installing a Child Seat ..................... 34
Turning on .................................... 59 Lights)....................................... 48 Instrument Panel ............................. 45
Heating...................................... 96, 100 Instrument Panel Brightness ......... 60

IV 2008 S2000
07/07/25 18:00:54 31S2A680 0262 

Main Menu

Index

Interior Lights .................................. 92 Power Door .................................. 65 N


Introduction ......................................... i Trunk ............................................ 65
Low Coolant Level ......................... 132 New Vehicle Break-in ................... 128
J Low Fuel Indicator .......................... 49 Normal Shift Speeds...................... 148
Low Oil Pressure Indicator .... 46, 218 NOTICE, Explanation of .................... i
Jacking Up the Vehicle ................. 202 Lubricant Specifications Chart .... 234 Numbers, Identification ................ 232
Jack, Tire ........................................ 201 Luggage, Storing (Cargo) ............ 138
Jump Starting ................................. 214 O
M
K Octane Requirement, Gasoline .... 128
Maintenance ................................... 159 Odometer .......................................... 53
Keys ................................................... 62 Minder......................................... 160 Odometer, Trip ................................ 53
Minder Indicator .......................... 50 Oil
L Owner’s Maintenance Change, How to ......................... 171
Checks .................................... 167 Change, When to ....................... 161
Label, Certification ........................ 232 Safety........................................... 160 Checking Engine ....................... 131
Lane Change, Signaling .................. 59 Malfunction Indicator Lamp .. 47, 225 Pressure Indicator ............... 46, 218
Lap/Shoulder Belts ................... 12, 17 Manual Transmission.................... 147 Selecting Proper Viscosity
Lights Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 176 Chart ....................................... 171
Bulb Replacement ..................... 179 Meters, Gauges ................................ 53 ON (Ignition Key Position) ............ 64
Turn Signal ................................... 59 Methanol in Gasoline .................... 128 Onboard Refueling Vapor
Load Limits..................................... 139 Mirrors, Adjusting ........................... 87 Recovery ..................................... 242
LOCK (Ignition Key Position) ....... 64 Modifying Your Vehicle................ 137 Opening the Trunk .......................... 65

INDEX
Locks Outside Mirrors ............................... 87
Anti-theft Steering Column ........ 64
Fuel Fill Door ............................. 129 CONTINUED

2008 S2000 V
07/07/26 09:35:17 31S2A680 0263 

Main Menu

Index

Outside Temperature Indicator ..... 55 Protecting Larger Children ........ 37 Replacement Information
Overheating, Engine ..................... 215 Protecting Small Children .......... 33 Dust and Pollen Filter ............... 185
Owner’s Maintenance Checks ..... 167 Engine Oil and Filter ................. 171
Oxygenated Fuels.......................... 128 R Fuses ........................................... 222
Light Bulbs ................................. 179
P Radiator Overheating .................... 215 Schedule ..................................... 168
Radio/CD Sound System .............. 104 Tires ............................................ 192
Panel Brightness Control ............... 60 Radio Theft Protection.................. 123 Wiper Blades .............................. 186
Parking ............................................ 149 Readiness Codes .................... 219, 245 Replacing Seat Belts After a
Parking Brake .................................. 88 Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement ... 183 Crash ............................................. 18
Parking Brake and Brake System Rear View Mirror ............................. 87 Reporting Safety Defects* ........... 250
Indicator ...................................... 220 Rear Window Defogger .................. 61 Reserve Tank, Engine
Parking Lights.................................. 59 Reclining the Seat-backs ................. 69 Coolant ................................ 132, 173
Peak Power Indicator ...................... 52 Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 148 Restraint, Child ................................ 29
PGM-FI System.............................. 243 Recovery Vehicle, Emergency Reverse Lockout ............................ 148
Pollen Filter .................................... 185 Towing ........................................ 228 Rotation, Tire ................................. 191
Power Door Locks ........................... 65 Refueling ......................................... 129
Power Socket Location ................... 90 Reminder Indicators ........................ 45 S
Power Windows ............................... 70 Remote Transmitter ........................ 67
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts .......... 14 Removable Hardtop......................... 78 Safety Belts................................... 8, 16
Preparing to Drive ......................... 145 Installation .................................... 79 Safety Defects, Reporting* .......... 250
Protecting Adults and Teens.......... 10 Removal ........................................ 84 Safety Features .................................. 7
Additional Safety Precautions .... 15 Storing ........................................... 86 Airbags ............................................ 9
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 14 Washing ........................................ 86 Seat Belts ........................................ 8
Protecting Children ......................... 29 Wind Deflector............................. 75 Safety Labels, Location of .............. 42
General Guidelines ...................... 29 Safety Messages ............................... iii

VI 2008 S2000
07/07/25 18:01:04 31S2A680 0264 

Main Menu

Index

Seat Belts ...................................... 8, 16 Spare Tire Storing Your Vehicle ..................... 197
Additional Information ................ 16 Inflating ....................................... 190 Stuck Vehicle ................................. 228
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 14 Specifications ............................. 235 Summer Tires ................................ 194
Automatic Seat Belt Spark Plugs ..................................... 234 Supplemental Restraint System
Tensioners ................................ 18 Specifications ................................. 234 Servicing ................................... 27
Cleaning ...................................... 184 Speed Control ................................. 124 SRS Indicator.......................... 25, 47
Lap/Shoulder Belt ....................... 17 Speed Limiter ................................. 148 System Components.................... 20
Maintenance ................................. 18 SRS, Additional Information........... 20 Synthetic Oil ................................... 171
Reminder Indicator and Additional Safety Precautions .... 28
Beeper ................................. 16, 46 Airbag Service .............................. 27 T
System Components.................... 16 Airbag System Components ....... 20
Use During Pregnancy................ 14 How the SRS Indicator Taillights, Changing Bulbs ........... 183
Seats, Adjusting the ......................... 69 Works ........................................ 25 Taking Care of the Unexpected .. 199
Serial Number ................................ 232 How Your Airbags Technical Descriptions
Service Intervals .................... 167, 168 Work.......................................... 22 DOT Tire Quality Grading* ..... 236
Service Manual* ............................ 251 SRS Indicator.............................. 25, 47 Emissions Control Systems ...... 242
Service Station Procedures .......... 129 Start Button .................................... 146 Three Way Catalytic
Setting the Clock ............................. 56 Starting the Engine........................ 146 Converter ................................ 244
Shifting In Cold Weather at High Temperature Gauge ........................ 55
Manual Transmission ............... 147 Altitude ................................... 146 Tensioners, Seat Belts .................... 18
Side Turn Signal, Bulb With a Dead Battery ................. 214 Theft Protection, Radio................. 123
Replacement ............................... 182 State Emissions Testing ............... 245 Three Way Catalytic Converter ... 244
Signaling Turns ................................ 59 Steam Coming from Engine ......... 215 Time, Setting the ............................. 56

INDEX
Snow Tires ...................................... 194 Steering Wheel Tire Chains ..................................... 194
Sound System ................................. 104 Anti-theft Column Lock .............. 64
Stereo Sound System .................... 104 CONTINUED

2008 S2000 VII


07/07/26 09:35:25 31S2A680 0265 

Main Menu

Index

Tire, How to Change a Flat .......... 201 Emergency Wrecker ................. 228 V
Tire Labeling .................................. 238 Trailer, Do Not Tow a ................... 153
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Transmission Vehicle Capacity Load .................. 139
(TPMS) ................................... 154 Checking Fluid Level, Manual Vehicle Dimensions....................... 234
Low Tire Pressure Indicator .... 154 Transmission.......................... 176 Vehicle Identification Number..... 232
TPMS Indicator ......................... 155 Fluid Selection............................ 176 Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
Tire Repair Kit ............................... 206 Identification Number............... 233 System..................................... 152
Tires ................................................ 188 Shifting the Manual VSA System Indicator ................. 50
Air Pressure ............................... 190 Transmission.......................... 147 VSA Activation Indicator ............ 50
Balancing .................................... 191 Treadwear ...................................... 236 VSA Off Switch .......................... 153
Chains ......................................... 194 Trip Meter ........................................ 53 Vehicle Storage .............................. 197
Checking Wear .................. 190, 192 Trunk................................................. 65 Ventilation ................................ 98, 102
Compact Spare Tire .................. 200 Emergency Trunk Opener ......... 66 VIN .................................................. 232
DOT Tire Quality Grading* ..... 236 Opening the .................................. 65 Viscosity, Oil................................... 171
Inflation ....................................... 189 Open Monitor Indicator .............. 47
Inspection ................................... 190 Turn Signals ..................................... 59 W
Repairing..................................... 206
Replacing .................................... 193 U WARNING, Explanation of ............. iii
Rotation, Do not ......................... 192 Warning Labels, Location of .......... 42
Snow ............................................ 194 Unexpected, Taking Care Warranty Coverages* ................... 249
Specifications ............................. 235 of the ........................................... 199 Washer, Windshield
Summer Tire .............................. 194 Uniform Tire Quality Grading* ... 236 Checking the Fluid Level ......... 175
Wear ............................................ 190 Unleaded Gasoline......................... 128 Operation ...................................... 58
Tools, Tire Changing .................... 201 Used Oil, How to Dispose of ........ 173 Wheels ............................................ 188
Towing Alignment and Balance ............. 192
A Trailer, Do Not ....................... 153 Wrench, Nut ............................... 202

VIII 2008 S2000


07/07/25 18:01:13 31S2A680 0266 

Main Menu

Index

Wind Deflector ........................ 99, 101


Windows, Operating the Power ..... 70
Windshield
Cleaning ........................................ 58
Defroster .............................. 99, 103
Washers ........................................ 58
Wipers, Windshield
Changing Blades ........................ 186
Operation ...................................... 58
Worn Tires ..................................... 193
Wrecker, Emergency Towing ...... 228

: U.S. only

INDEX
2008 S2000 IX
07/07/25 18:01:15 31S2A680 0267 

Main Menu

2008 S2000
07/07/25 18:01:17 31S2A680 0268 

Main Menu

2008 S2000
07/07/25 18:01:32 31S2A680 0269 

Main Menu

Service Information Summary

Gasoline: Manual Transmission Fluid: Tire Pressure (measured cold):


Premium unleaded gasoline, Honda Manual Transmission Front:
pump octane number of 91 or Fluid preferred, or an SAE 10W-30 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )
higher. or 10W-40 motor oil as a
temporary replacement (see page Rear:
Fuel Tank Capacity: 176 ). 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )
13.2 US gal (50 )
Capacity: Spare Tire Pressure:
Recommended Engine Oil: 1.7 US qt (1.6 ) Front:
API premium grade 10W-30 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )
detergent oil (see page 170 ). Differential Fluid:
SAE 90 viscosity hypoid gear oil.
Oil change capacity (including API service classified GL5 or GL6
filter): only (see page 177 ).
5.1 US qt (4.8 )
Fluid change capacity:
0.78 US qt (0.74 )

Brake Fluid:
Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid
DOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 or
DOT 4 brake fluid as a temporary
replacement (see page 178 ).

2008 S2000
07/07/25 17:27:02 31S2A680 0001 

Main Menu

Owner’s Identification

OWNER This owner’s manual should be


considered a permanent part of the
vehicle and should remain with the
vehicle when it is sold.
ADDRESS
STREET This owner’s manual covers all
models of the S2000. You may find
descriptions of equipment and
CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/ features that are not on your
POSTAL CODE particular model.
V. I. N.
The information and specifications
DELIVERY DATE included in this publication were in
(Date sold to original retail purchaser) effect at the time of approval for
printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
DEALER NAME DEALER NO. reserves the right, however, to
discontinue or change
ADDRESS specifications or design at any time
STREET without notice and without
incurring any obligation whatsoever.

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/


POSTAL CODE
OWNER’S SIGNATURE

DEALER’S SIGNATURE

2008 S2000

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