1995 Accord

1995 Accord Sedan Online Reference Owner's Manual
Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference.
For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.
Contents
Owner's Identification Form
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety................................................................................................................. ii
Driver and Passenger Safety .............................................................................................................. 3
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls................................................................................................................. 33
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. . 73
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 105
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 117
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 137
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 199
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 207
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 231
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 243
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 249
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index...................................................................................................................................................... I
Gas Station Information
Information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
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Introduction
Congratulations ! Your selection of a 1995 Honda Accord was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving
pleasure.
To enhance the enjoyment of your new car, take time to study this manual. In it, you will learn about your car's many
conveniences and useful features. Following the service interval and maintenance recommendations will help keep
your driving trouble-free while preserving your investment.
Keep this owner's manual in your car so you can refer to it at any time. Please make sure the manual stays with the car
if you sell it. The next owner will find it just as helpful.
Several warranties protect your Honda. We suggest you read the warranty booklets carefully to fully understand the
coverages and the responsibilities of ownership.
When your car needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's service staff is specially-trained
in the service and maintenance of the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your
satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns.
Safety Messages
Your safety and the safety of others is very important. We have provided You will also see another important
many important safety messages in this manual and on the vehicle. Please symbol:
read these messages carefully.
NOTICE
A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or
others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol and Your Honda or other property can be
one of three words, DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. damaged if you don't follow instruc-
These mean: tions.
You WILL be KILLED or The purpose of these messages is to

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

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

follow instructions.
Each safety message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen and what
you can do to avoid or reduce injury.
Driver and Passenger Safety
This section gives you important Why Wear Seat Belts.................... 5 Storing Cargo Safely.................. 19
information about occupant protec- Important Safety Reminders........ 5 Driving with Pets........................ 19
tion. It shows how to use seat belts Seat Belt System Components..... 6 Child Safety...................................... 20
properly. It explains the Supple- Lap/Shoulder Belt......................... 6 Where Should Children Sit?....... 20
mental Restraint System. And it Lap Belt.......................................... 6 Important Safety Reminders...... 21
gives useful information about how Wearing Seat Belts Properly........ 7 General Guidelines
to protect infants and children in Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7 for Restraining Children
your car. Wearing the Lap Belt.................... 9 Under 18 kg (40 Ibs)............... 22
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 10 Restraining
Seat Belt Maintenance................ 10 an Infant Who Weighs
Supplemental Restraint System..... 11 Less Than 9 kg (20 Ibs).......... 22
What Happens In a Crash........... 12 Restraining
Important Facts About a Child Who Weighs Between
Airbags...................................... 13 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs)..... 23
How the Driver's Airbag Restraining a Child Who Weighs
Works...................................... 14 Over 18kg (40 Ibs).................. 24
How the Passenger's Airbag Using a Seat Belt Locking Clip.. 24
Works...................................... 15 Using Child Restraints
How the SRS Indicator Light with Tethers............................. 25
Works........................................ 16 Storing a Child Seat..................... 26
System Service............................. 16 Alcohol and Drugs........................... 27
System Service Precautions....... 17 Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 28
Additional Safety Information........ 18 Safety Labels.................................... 29
Your Occupant Protection System.. 4 Seat-back Position........................ 18
The Seat Belt System Head Restraint Position.............. 18
and How It Works...................... 5 Door Locks................................... 19

Your Occupant Protection System
Your Honda is equipped with seat Two indicator lights are also part of To get the maximum protection from
belts and other features that work your safety system. One reminds you your occupant protection system,
together to protect you and your to make sure you and your passen- check the following before you drive
passenger during a crash. gers wear seat belts. The other away:
alerts you to a possible problem with Everyone in the car is wearing a
Seat belts are the most important your supplemental restraint system seat belt properly (see page 7 ) .
part of your occupant protection (see page 16). Infants and small children are
system. When worn properly, seat properly secured in child safety
belts can reduce the chance of The seats, head restraints, and door seats (see page 20).
serious injury or death in a crash. locks also play a role in occupant All doors are closed and locked
safety. For example, reclining the (see page 19).
For added protection during a severe seat-back can decrease the effec- Seat-backs are upright and head
frontal collision, your Accord has a tiveness of your seat belt. Head restraints are properly adjusted
Supplemental Restraint System restraints can help protect your neck (see pages 18 and 59).
(SRS) with airbags for the driver and and head, especially during rear-end There are no loose items that
a front seat passenger. impacts. Door locks help keep your could be thrown around and hurt
doors from being accidentally someone during a crash or sudden
opened during a crash. stop (see page 19).
By following these guidelines, you

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

The Seat Belt System and How It Works
Why Wear Seat Belts Two people should never use the
Wearing seat belts, and wearing same seat belt. If they do, they could
them properly, is fundamental to Not wearing a seat belt be very seriously injured in a crash.
your safety and the safety of your increases the chance of being
passengers. killed or seriously hurt in a Do not place the shoulder portion of
crash. a lap/shoulder belt under your arm
During a crash or emergency stop, or behind your back. This could
seat belts can help keep you from Be sure you and your increase the chance of serious
being thrown against the inside of passengers always wear seat injuries in a crash.
the car, against other occupants, or belts and wear them properly.
out of the car. Do not put shoulder belt pads or
other accessories on seat belts. They
Of course, seat belts cannot com- Important Safety Reminders can reduce the effectiveness of the
pletely protect you in every crash. Seat belts are designed for adults belts and increase the chance of
But, in most cases, seat belts reduce and larger children. All infants and injury.
your chance of serious injury. They small children must be properly
can even save your life. That is why restrained in child safety seats (see
many states and all Canadian pro- page 20).
vinces require you to wear seat belts.
A pregnant woman needs to wear a
seat belt to protect herself and her
unborn child (see page 10).

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt Lap Belt

Your Honda has seat belts in all five
seating positions. The front seats SHOULDER UPPER SEAT BUCKLE
and the outside positions of the rear PORTION BELT ANCHOR
seat have lap/shoulder belts. The
center position of the rear seat has a
To retractor
lap belt.
LATCH LAP
Your seat belt system also includes a PLATE PORTION
light on the instrument panel to
remind you to fasten your seat belt,
and to make sure your passengers
fasten theirs. This light comes on BUCKLE
LATCH PLATE
when you turn on the ignition if you
have not fastened your seat belt. A This style of seat belt has a single The lap belt has one manually-
beeper also sounds for several belt that goes over your shoulder, adjusted belt that fits across the hips.
seconds (see page 36 ). across your chest, and across your It is similar to safety belts used in
hips. airplanes.
The following pages cover more Each lap/shoulder belt has an
about the seat belt components and emergency locking retractor. In
how they work. normal driving, the retractor lets you
move freely in your seat while it
keeps some tension on the belt.
During a collision or sudden stop,
the retractor automatically locks the
belt to help restrain your body.

Wearing Seat Belts Properly Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt

You can increase the effectiveness of
your seat belts if you take a little
time to read the following pages and
make sure you know how to wear
seat belts properly.
Not wearing a seat belt properly

increases the chance of serious
injury or death in a crash.
Be sure you and your

passengers always wear seat Before putting on the seat belt, move latch is securely locked.
belts and wear them properly. the driver's seat as far back as is
practical while still allowing you to 2. Check that the belt is not twisted.
maintain full control of the vehicle.
Make sure the seat-back is upright 3. Position the lap portion of the belt
(see page 18). The front seat as low as possible across your hips,
passenger should move the seat as not across your stomach. This lets
far back as possible. your strong pelvic bones take the
force of a crash.
1. Pull the latch plate across your
body and insert it into the buckle.
Tug on the belt to make sure the CONTINUED

RELEASE
BUTTON
RELEASE
BUTTON
4. Pull up on the shoulder part of the 5. If the belt crosses your neck, you To unlatch the seat belt, push the
belt to remove any slack. Make need to adjust the belt anchor red PRESS button on the buckle.
sure the belt goes over your height or your seating position. Guide the belt across your body to
collarbone and across your chest. Front seats: the door pillar. After you exit the
Adjust the belt anchor by squeez- vehicle, make sure the seat belt is
ing the two buttons and sliding the out of the way and will not get
anchor downward (it has four posi- closed in the door.
tions) .
Rear seat:
Move toward the center of the
seat until the belt fits over your
collarbone.

Wearing the Lap Belt
1. Pull the latch plate across your 2. Position the belt as low as possible To unlatch the belt, push the red
hips and insert it into the buckle across your hips and pelvic bones, PRESS button on the buckle.
marked CENTER. not across your stomach. Pull the
loose end of the belt to adjust for a
If the belt is too short, hold the snug but comfortable fit.
latch plate at a right angle and pull
to extend the belt. Insert the latch
plate into the buckle.

Advice for Pregnant Women If possible, use the lap/shoulder seat Seat Belt Maintenance
belt, remembering to keep the lap For safety, you should check the
portion as low as possible (see page condition of your seat belts regularly.
7).
Pull out each belt fully and look for
Each time you have a check-up, ask frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check
your doctor if it's okay for you to that the latches work smoothly and
drive and how you should position a the lap/shoulder belts retract easily.
lap/shoulder seat belt. Any belt not in good condition or not
working properly should be replaced.
If a seat belt is worn during a crash,

have your dealer replace the belt and
inspect the anchors for damage.
Protecting the mother is the best
way to protect her unborn child. For information on how to clean your
Therefore, a pregnant woman should seat belts, see page 204 .
wear a properly-positioned seat belt
whenever she drives or rides in a car.

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

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

are:
One airbag in the steering wheel

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

frontal collision.
CONTINUED

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

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

Important Facts About Airbags Frontal collision range

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

System Service Precautions Scrapping an entire car that has

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

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

Additional Safety Information
The seat belts and airbags are obvi- Seat-back Position Head Restraint Position
ously important parts of your occu- The seat-backs should be in an
pant protection system. upright position for you and your
passengers to get the most protec-
In addition, you should know that tion from the seat belts.
sitting upright, adjusting the head
restraint properly, locking the doors, If you recline a seat-back, you reduce
and stowing things properly can also the protective capability of your seat
increase your safety and possibly belt. The farther a seat-back is
even save your life. reclined, the greater the risk that
you will slide under the belt in a
severe crash and be very seriously
injured.
For information on how to adjust the Head restraints can help protect you
seat-back, see page 56 . from whiplash and other injuries. For
the best protection, adjust the top of
the restraint so it is even with the
tops of your ears, or as high as possi-
ble. For instructions on adjusting the
head restraints, see page 59 .

Additional Safety Information
Door Locks Be sure to keep compartment doors The recommended way to restrain a
It is not safe to leave your car doors closed when the car is moving. If a medium-sized or larger dog is with a
unlocked. A passenger, especially a passenger hits the door of an open special traveling harness. This har-
child, could open a door and acci- glove box, for example, he could ness can be secured to the rear seat
dentally fall out. Also, there is a injure his knees. with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are
greater chance of being thrown out available at pet stores.
of the car during a crash when the For information on loading cargo,
doors are not locked. see page 115. A small dog, cat, or other small
animal will be safest in a pet carrier
Storing Cargo Safely Driving with Pets with rigid sides. Choose a style that
Before you drive, make sure you Loose pets can be a hazard while you allows you to secure it to the car's
first securely store or tie down any are driving. An unrestrained pet can seat by routing a seat belt through
items that could be thrown around interfere with your ability to drive the carrier's handle.
the car and hurt someone, or the car. In a crash or sudden stop,
interfere with your ability to operate loose pets or cages can be thrown For further information, contact your
the controls. around inside the car and hurt you or veterinarian or local animal protec-
your passengers. It is also for their tion society.
Do not put any items on top of the safety that pets should be properly
rear shelf. They can block your view restrained in your car.
and they could be thrown about the
car in a crash.

Child Safety
Where Should Children Sit?

According to accident statistics,
An infant or child who is not children of all sizes and ages are
properly restrained can be killed safer when they are properly
or seriously injured in a crash. restrained in the rear seat rather
than the front seat.
Be sure any child too small for
seat belts is properly secured in We recommend that, whenever
a child restraint. possible, you secure your child's
infant or toddler seat in the center
position of the rear seat with the lap
belt.
Children depend on adults to protect We strongly recommend that you do

them. To help make sure we do, not put an infant seat in the front
eveiy state and Canadian province passenger's seat. If the airbag
has laws requiring infants and young inflates, it can hit the infant seat with
children to be properly restrained great force. The infant seat can be
whenever they ride in a car. dislodged or struck with enough
force to cause very serious injury to
the infant.

Child Safety
If a toddler seat is used in the front Important Safety Reminders Two children should never use the
passenger's seat, the vehicle seat Never hold a baby or child on your same seat belt. If they do, they could
should be moved as far back as lap when riding in a car. If you are be very seriously injured in a crash.
possible. If the passenger's bag wearing your seat belt, the violent
inflates, it could seriously hurt a forces created during a crash will If you are driving with small children
toddler who is not in the proper tear the child from your arms. The in the car, you should use the
position or properly restrained. child could be seriously hurt or killed. childproof door locks to prevent
them from opening the rear doors
We also recommend that any child If you are holding a child and not (see page 54 ).
who is too large to use an infant or wearing a seat belt in a crash, you
toddler seat ride in one of the out- could crush the child against the car's For their safety, do not leave
side positions of the rear seat. The interior. children alone in your car without
child should then wear the lap/ adult supervision.
shoulder belt properly for protection. Never put your seat belt over
yourself and a child. During a crash,
the belt could press deep into the
child, causing serious internal
injuries.

Child Safety
General Guidelines for To properly route a seat belt through Restraining an Infant Who
Restraining Children Under 18 a child seat, follow the seat maker's Weighs Less Than 9 kg
kg (40 Ibs) instructions. If you use a lap/ (20 Ibs)
Use an approved child seat. The seat shoulder belt, be sure you install a
must meet Federal Motor Vehicle locking clip on the belt (see page 24).
Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS-213) or
Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Secure the child in the child seat. Make
Standards. Look for the manufac- sure the infant or child is firmly
turer's statement of compliance on secured to the child seat. Use the
the box and seat. straps provided, and carefully follow
the manufacturer's instructions.
Use a seat of the right size. Make sure
the seat fits your child. Check the
seat manufacturer's instructions and
labels for height and weight limits.
Secure the child seal to the car. A l l An infant up to about 9 kg (20 Ibs)
approved child seats are designed to must be restrained in an infant seat
be secured to the car seat by the lap or a convertible seat designed for a
belt or the lap belt portion of a lap/ baby. Because infants must ride in a
shoulder belt. A child whose seat is reclining position, be sure the infant
not properly secured to the car can seat always faces the REAR of the
be endangered in a crash. car as shown.

Child Safety
We recommend that, whenever Restraining a Child Who Weighs The preferred place to put a toddler
possible, you put the infant seat in Between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 seat is in the center position of the
the center position of the rear seat Ibs) rear seat. Use the car's lap belt to
and secure it to the car with the lap secure the seat to the car.
belt.
If you decide to put a toddler seat in
If you decide to put an infant seat in any other seating position, you must
any other seating position, you must use a locking clip on the car's lap/
use a locking clip on the car's lap/ shoulder belt (see page 24 ).
shoulder belt (see page 24).
If you are using a toddler seat in the
We strongly recommend that you do front passenger's seat, move the
not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat as far back as
passenger's seat. If the airbag possible before installing the child
inflates, it can hit the infant seat with seat. If the passenger's bag inflates,
great force. The infant seat can be it could seriously hurt a toddler who
dislodged or struck with enough Toddler seats are designed for is not in the proper position or
force to cause very serious injury to children who weigh between 9 and properly restrained.
the infant. 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs).

Child Safety
Restraining a Child Who Weighs Put the seat belt on your child and Using a Seat Belt Locking Clip
Over 18 kg (40 Ibs) check its fit. The shoulder belt Always use a seat belt locking clip
should fit over the collarbone and when you secure a child seat to your
across the chest. The lap belt should car with a lap/shoulder belt. This
sit low on your child's hips, not helps prevent the seat from shifting
across the stomach. position or overturning.
If the shoulder belt crosses the neck, A locking clip is usually included
have your child move toward the with the child seat. If you need a clip,
center of the rear seat until the belt contact the seat's manufacturer or a
fits properly. If the belt still crosses store that sells child restraints.
the child's neck, you should use a
booster seat.
Several styles of booster seats are

We recommend that, whenever available. We recommend a design
possible, a child who has outgrown a that allows the child to use the car's
toddler seat ride in one of the lap/shoulder belt.
outside positions of the rear seat and
use a lap/shoulder belt. Whichever style you select, follow
the booster seat manufacturer's
instructions.

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

following: Tethers
1. Place the child restraint in the 121 m m (4.8 in) 306 m m (12.0 in)
desired position. Route the lap/
shoulder belt through the restraint
according to the seat manufac-
turer's instructions.
2. Insert the latch plate into the

buckle. Pull on the shoulder part
of the belt to make sure there is
no slack in the lap portion.
4. Install the locking clip as shown. 340 mm (13.4 in)
3. Tightly grasp the belt near the Position the clip as close as
latch plate. Pinch both parts of the possible to the latch plate. Your Honda has three attachment
belt together so they won't slip points for tether-style child seat.
through the latch plate. Unbuckle 5. Insert the latch plate into the They are located on the rear shelf.
the seat belt. buckle. Push and pull on the child
seat to verify that it is held firmly U.S. Models
in place. If it is not, repeat these Use the dimensions in the illustra-
steps until the restraint is secure. tion to locate either of the outside
attachment points you want to use.
Cut a 22 mm (7/8 inch) diameter
hole in the rear shelf.
CONTINUED

Child Safety
Canadian Models Canadian Cars Storing a Child Seat

Select the attachment point you want When you are not using an infant
to use and remove the plug with a seat or other child restraint, either
small flat-tipped screwdriver or TOOTHED WASHER remove it or make sure it is properly
fingernail file. secured so it cannot be thrown
around the car during a crash.
Install the tether hardware that came
with the child seat.
Tighten to:
22 N.m (2.2 kg-m , 16 Ib-ft)
If you are not sure how to install the

bracket, have it installed by your
Honda dealer.
The anchor plate and mounting
If you need an anchor plate and hardware for a top tether are
mounting hardware, you can obtain supplied with the car. When
them by writing to: installing, make sure the toothed
washer is on the bottom of the bolt.
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Consumer Affairs The supplied anchor plate is
1919 Torrance Blvd. designed only for mounting a child
Torrance, CA 90501-2746 restraint. Do not use it for any other
purpose.

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

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

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

activities that expose you to
carbon monoxide.

Safety Labels
4 Cylinder Models
These labels are in the locations
shown. They warn you of potential
hazards that could cause serious
injury. Read these labels carefully
and don't remove them.
If a label comes off or becomes hard RADIATOR CAP

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

Safety Labels
6 Cylinder Models BATTERY

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

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

Instruments and Controls
This section gives information about Maintenance Required Driver's Seat Power Height
the controls and displays that Indicator.................................... 40 Adjustment............................... 57
contribute to the daily operation of Controls Near the Steering Driver's Seat Power
your Honda. All the essential Wheel...................................... 41 Adjustment............................... 57
controls are within easy reach. Headlights.................................... 42 Driver's Lumbar Support............ 59
Daytime Running Lights............. 42 Head Restraints........................... 59
Instrument Panel Brightness..... 43 Folding Rear Seat........................ 60
Turn Signals................................. 43 Rear Seat Armrest....................... 61
Windshield Wipers...................... 44 Power Windows............................... 62
Windshield Washers................... 45 Moonroof.......................................... 63
Hazard Warning........................... 45 Sunshade....................................... 64
Rear Window Defogger.............. 45 Mirrors.............................................. 64
Steering Wheel Adjustment....... 46 Manual Door Mirrors.................. 65
Steering Wheel Controls ................ 48 Adjusting the Power Mirrors..... 65
Cruise Control.............................. 48 Parking Brake.................................. 66
Horn.............................................. 51 Digital Clock..................................... 67
Keys and Locks................................ 51 Beverage Holder.............................. 68
Control Locations............................ 34 Keys............................................. 51 Console Compartment.................... 68
Indicator Lights................................ 35 Ignition Switch............................. 52 Coin Box........................................... 69
Gauges.............................................. 39 Door Locks................................... 53 Vanity Mirror................................... 69
Speedometer................................ 39 Power Door Locks....................... 53 Cigarette Lighter............................. 70
Tachometer.................................. 39 Childproof Door Locks............... 54 Ashtrays............................................ 70
Odometer...................................... 39 Trunk............................................ 54 Interior Lights.................................. 71
Trip Meter.................................... 39 Glove Box..................................... 55 Ceiling Light................................. 71
Temperature Gauge.................... 40 Seat Adjustments............................. 56 Courtesy Lights........................... 71
Fuel Gauge................................... 40 Front Seat Adjustments.............. 56

Control Locations
MIRROR DIGITAL CLOCK HEATING/COOLING

CONTROLS (P.67) CONTROL
(P.65) (P.74)
DOOR LOCK
SWITCH
(P.53) AUDIO SYSTEM
(P.81)
POWER WINDOW
SWITCH
(P.62)
FUEL FILL
DOOR RELEASE
(P.108)
TRUNK RELEASE HOOD RELEASE

HANDLE HANDLE
(P.54) (P.109)

Indicator Lights
The instrument panel has many

indicators to give you important SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT HIGH BEAM INDICATOR
SYSTEM INDICATOR
information about your car.
SEAT BELT REMINDER
PARKING BRAKE AND LIGHT
Lamp Check BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*
Many of the indicator lights come on
when you turn the ignition switch CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR CRUISE CONTROL
ON (II), allowing you to see that they INDICATOR
LOW OIL
are working. The instrument panel PRESSURE
should look like the illustration. If an INDICATOR
indicator does not light during this
test, it cannot alert you if that system
develops a problem. Have the dealer
check your car for burned-out bulbs
or other problems.
* The U.S. instrument panel is

shown. Differences for the Canadian
model are noted in the text.
DOOR AND BRAKE LOW FUEL
LAMP MONITOR INDICATOR
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ ANTI-LOCK BRAKE

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT* SYSTEM INDICATOR*

Indicator Lights
Seat Belt Reminder Light Low Oil Pressure US Canada Parking Brake
Indicator and Brake
BRAKE
This indicator lights when you turn This indicator lights when the oil System
the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder pressure in the engine drops low Indicator
to you and your passengers to enough to cause damage. It should This light has two functions:
protect yourselves by fastening the light when the ignition is ON (II) and
seat belts. A beeper also sounds if go out after the engine starts. If this 1. It lights as a reminder that you
you have not fastened your seat belt. light flashes or stays on when the have set the parking brake.
engine is running, there is a possi- Driving with the parking brake set
If you do not fasten your seat belt, bility of serious engine damage. can damage the brakes and tires,
the beeper will stop after a few Safely pull to the side of the road and and cause the Anti-lock brake
seconds but the light stays on until shut off the engine as soon as you system to turn off (see page 128 ).
you do. Both the light and the beeper can. Turn to page 221 for in-
stay off if you fasten your seat belt structions and precautions on 2. It can indicate the brake fluid level
before turning on the ignition. checking the engine. is low if it remains lit after you
release the parking brake or
Charging System comes on while driving. This is
Indicator normally due to worn brake pads.
This light indicates the battery is not Have your dealer check the
being charged. It should come on braking system for worn pads or
when the ignition is ON (II), and go fluid leaks.
out after the engine starts. If this
light comes on while driving, the
battery is not being charged. Turn to
page 222 for information about what
to do.

Indicator Lights
Supplemental Restraint goes off after the engine starts. If it Door and Brake Lamp Monitor
SRS System Indicator comes on at any other time, there is
The SRS light normally comes on for a problem in the ABS. If this happens,
a few seconds when you turn the take the car to your dealer to have it
ignition ON (II). If it doesn't, or it checked. With the light on, your car
stays on after the engine starts, still has normal braking ability but no
something is wrong with the anti-lock.
Supplemental Restraint System. It
may also flash on and off to indicate US
a problem. Malfunction Indicator The appropriate light comes on in
If you see any of these indications, Lamp (64 cylinder and U.S.
cylinder models) this display if the trunk or any door
the airbag may not work when Canada is not closed tightly. If a brake light
needed in an accident. Take the car Check Engine Light does not work, the BRAKE LAMP
to your dealer promptly for diagnosis (Canada 4 cylinder models)
indicator comes on when you push
and service. This light comes on for a few the brake pedal with the ignition
seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II).
US switch ON (II). If it comes on at any A burned out brake light is a hazard
Anti-lock Brake System other time, it indicates one of the when drivers behind you cannot tell
ABS (ABS) Indicator engine's emission control systems you are braking. Have your brake
Canada may have a problem. Turn to page lights repaired right away.
223 for information about what to do. All the lights in the monitor display
come on for a few seconds when you
Only on cars equipped with ABS (see turn the ignition switch ON (II).
page 128 )
This light normally comes on when
you turn the ignition ON (II) and

Indicator Lights
Turn Signal and other time, it means there is a Shift Lever Position Indicator
Hazard Warning problem with the DRL. There may (Automatic Transmission only)
Indicators also be a problem with the high
The left or right turn signal light beam headlights.
blinks when you signal a lane change
or turn. If the light does not blink or High Beam Indicator
blinks rapidly, it usually means one
of the turn signal bulbs is burned out This light comes on with the high
(see page 189 ). Replace the bulb as beam headlights. See page 42 for
soon as possible, since other drivers information on the headlight
cannot see that you are signalling. controls.
When you turn on the Hazard CRUISE Cruise Control Indicator

Warning switch, both turn signal CONTROL
lights blink. All turn signals on the Only on cars equipped with Cruise This indicator between the tacho-
outside of the car should flash. Control System meter and speedometer shows which
This lights when you set the cruise shift position the shift lever is in.
"Daytime Running control. See page 48 for information The "D4" indicator comes on for a
DRL
Lights" Indicator on operating the cruise control. few seconds when you turn the
Canadian models only ignition switch ON (II). If it flashes
This indicator lights when you turn Low Fuel Indicator while driving (in any shift position),
the ignition to ON (II) with the it indicates a possible problem in the
headlight switch off and the parking This light comes on as a reminder transmission. Avoid rapid acceler-
brake set. It should go off if you turn that you must refuel soon. ation and have the transmission
on the headlights or release the checked by an authorized Honda
parking brake. If it comes on at any dealer as soon as possible.

Gauges
TEMPERATURE TACHOMETER TRIP METER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE

Odometer
GAUGE The odometer shows the total dis-
tance your car has been driven. It
measures miles in U.S. models and
kilometers in Canadian models.
It is illegal under federal law (in the
U.S.) and provincial regulations (in
Canada) to disconnect, reset, or alter
the odometer with the intent to
change the number of miles or
kilometers indicated.
MAINTENANCE ODOMETER TRIP METER
REQUIRED INDICATOR RESET BUTTON Trip Meter
This meter shows the number of
Speedometer Tachometer miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada)
U.S. Models The tachometer shows the engine driven since you last reset it. To
This shows your speed in miles per speed in revolutions per minute reset it, push the trip meter reset
hour (mph). The smaller inner (rpm). To protect the engine from button.
numbers are the speed in kilometers damage, never drive with the
per hour (km/h). tachometer needle in the red zone.
Canadian Models
This shows your speed in kilometers
per hour (km/h). The smaller inner
numbers are the speed in miles per
hour (mph).

Gauges
Temperature Gauge Fuel Gauge Maintenance Required Indicator

This shows the temperature of the This shows how much fuel you have.
engine's coolant. During normal It is most accurate when the car is on INDICATOR
operation, the pointer should rise level ground. It may show slightly
from the bottom white mark to about more or less than the actual amount
the middle of the gauge. In severe when you are driving on curvy or
driving conditions, such as very hot hilly roads.
weather or a long period of uphill
driving, the pointer may rise to the The gauge stays at the same fuel
upper white mark. If it reaches the level reading after you turn off the
red " H " (Hot) mark, pull safely to ignition. When you add fuel, the
the side of the road. Turn to page gauge slowly changes to the new SLOT
219 for instructions and precautions reading after you turn the ignition
on checking the engine's cooling back ON (II). The indicator reminds you when it is
system. time for scheduled maintenance.
When it nears 12,000 km (7,500
miles) since the last maintenance,
the indicator will turn yellow. If you
exceed 12,000 km (7,500 miles), the
indicator will turn red. Your dealer
will reset the indicator when he
performs the scheduled maintenance.
If someone else performs the
maintenance, reset the indicator by
inserting your key in the slot below
the indicator.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel
The two levers on the steering

column contain controls for driving INSTRUMENT PANEL REAR WINDOW WINDSHIELD
BRIGHTNESS DEFOGGER WIPERS/WASHERS
features you use most often. The left
lever controls the turn signals,
headlights, and high beams. The
right lever controls the windshield
wipers.
The rear window defogger switch is MOONROOF

SWITCH
on the dashboard to the right of the
steering column.
The controls under the left air vent

are for the moonroof, cruise control
and instrument panel brightness.
The lever on the underside of the

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

TURN SIGNALS

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

(Canadian Models)
With the headlight switch off, the
high beam headlights come on with
The rotating switch on the left lever reduced brightness when you turn
controls the lights. Turning this the ignition switch to ON (II) and
switch to the first position " " turns release the parking brake. They
on the parking lights, taillights, remain on until you turn the ignition
instrument panel lights, side-marker To change between low beams and off, even if you set the parking brake.
lights, and rear license plate lights. high beams, pull back on the turn
Turning the switch to the second signal lever until you hear a click, The headlights revert to normal
position " " turns on the headlights. then let go. The blue high beam operation when you turn them on
indicator will light (see page 3 8 ) . with the switch.

Instrument Panel Brightness Turn Signals To signal a lane change, push lightly
on the turn signal lever in the proper
direction and hold it. The lever will
return to the center position as soon
as you release it.
TURN SIGNAL LEVER
The knob on the dashboard to the Signal a turn or lane change with this
left of the instrument panel controls lever. Push down on the lever to
the brightness of the instrument signal a left turn, and up to signal a
panel lights. Push the knob to get it right turn. If you push it up or down
to pop out. Turn the knob to adjust all the way, the turn signal continues
the brightness. to blink even when you release the
lever. It shuts off automatically as
you complete the turn.

Windshield Wipers
The right lever controls the wind- To operate the wipers in mist mode, On 6 cylinder models
shield wipers and washers. The push the control lever down. The In intermittent, the wipers operate
rotary switch at the end of the lever wipers run at high speed until you every few seconds. You can adjust
has three positions: release the lever. This gives you a this delay by turning the INT TIME
INT — intermittent quick way to clear the windshield. ring on the lever. This allows you to
LO — low speed vary how often the windshield
HI — high speed wipers sweep when driving in light
rain or snow. In low speed and high
In intermittent, the wipers operate speed, the wipers run continuously.
every few seconds. In low speed and
high speed, the wipers run continu-
ously.

Windshield Washers Hazard Warning Rear Window Defogger
To clean the windshield, pull back on Push the red button to the left of the The rear window defogger will clear
the wiper control lever. The washers clock to turn on the hazard warning fog, frost, and thin ice from the
spray until you release the lever. The lights (four-way flashers). This window. Push the defogger button to
wipers run at low speed while you're causes all four outside turn signals turn it on and off. The light in the
pulling the lever, then complete one and both indicators in the instrument button lights to show the defogger is
more sweep of the windshield after panel to flash. Use the hazard on. If you do not turn it off, the
you release it. warning lights if you need to park in defogger will shut itself off after
a dangerous area near heavy traffic, about 25 minutes. It also shuts off
or if your car is disabled. when you turn off the ignition. You
have to turn it on again when you
restart the car.
CONTINUED

Make sure the rear window is clear Steering Wheel Adjustment

and you have good visibility before You can adjust the steering wheel
starting to drive. height to suit your preference. Do
this before you begin driving.
The defogger wires on the inside of
the rear window can be accidentally
damaged. When cleaning the glass,
always wipe side to side. Adjusting the steering wheel
position while driving may
cause you to lose control of the
car and be seriously injured in a
crash.
Adjust the steering wheel only 1. Adjust the seat so you are a
when the car is stopped. comfortable distance from the
pedals.
2. The lever to tilt the steering wheel

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

3. Move the steering wheel up or

down to the desired position.
Position the wheel so you can see
all the instrument panel gauges
and warning lights. Push the lever
up to lock the steering wheel in
that position.
4. Make sure you have securely

locked the steering wheel in place
by trying to move it up and down.

Steering Wheel Controls
Cruise Control Using the Cruise Control

Except for DX model in the U.S.
Cruise control allows you to maintain CRUISE CONTROL MASTER SWITCH
Improper use of the cruise
a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) control can lead to a crash.
without keeping your foot on the
accelerator pedal. It is for cruising on Use the cruise control only
straight, open highways. It is not when traveling on open
recommended for conditions such as highways in good weather.
city driving, winding roads, slippery
roads, heavy rain, or bad weather.
You should have full control of the
car under those conditions.
1. Push in the Cruise Control Master

Switch to the left of the steering
column. The indicator in the
switch will light.
2. Accelerate to the desired cruising

speed above 25 mph (40 km/h).

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

particularly on hills.
CONTINUED

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

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

and the door locks. You can keep the
HORN BUTTONS KEY VALET MASTER trunk, trunk release handle, rear seat
NUMBER KEY KEY
PLATE trunk access and glove box locked
when you leave your car and valet
key at a parking facility.
You should have received a key

number plate with your set of keys.
You will need this key number if you
ever have to replace a lost key. Store
this plate in a safe place.
When replacing keys, use only

Press either of the buttons on the Your car comes with two kinds of Honda-approved key blanks.
steering wheel spokes to sound the keys: a master key and a valet key.
horn. The master key fits all locks on your
car:
Ignition
Doors
Trunk
Trunk release handle
Rear seat trunk access
Glove box

Keys and Locks
Ignition Switch LOCK (0) — You can insert or ACCESSORY (I) — In this position,
remove the key only in this position. you can operate the audio system
When you turn the key from LOCK and cigarette lighter.
to ACCESSORY, you may have to
turn the steering wheel to release ON (II) — This is the normal key
the anti-theft lock. To switch from position when driving. All features
ACCESSORY to LOCK, you must and accessories on the car are usable.
push the key in slightly as you turn it. Several of the lights on the instru-
If your car has an automatic trans- ment panel come on as a test when
mission, it must also be in Park. The you turn the ignition switch from
anti-theft lock will lock the steering ACCESSORY to ON (see page 35 ).
column when you remove the key.
START (III) — Use this position
only to start the engine. The switch
The ignition switch is on the right returns to ON when you let go of the
side of the steering column. It has Removing the key from the key.
four positions: LOCK (0), ACCES- ignition switch while driving
SORY (I), ON (II), and START (III). locks the steering. This can You will hear a reminder beeper if
cause you to lose control. you open the driver's door with the
key in the LOCK or ACCESSORY
Remove the key from the position. Remove the key to turn it
ignition switch only when off.
parked.

Keys and Locks
Door Locks The front doors can be locked and Power Door Locks
unlocked from the outside with the
LOCK TAB key. MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH
Each door has a lock tab on the top. On LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6 models in
Push the tab down to lock the door the U.S., and EX, EX V-6, EX-R and EX-R
and pull it up to unlock. V-6 models in Canada
Each front door has a master door
To lock any passenger's door when lock switch. Either switch locks and
getting out of the car, push the lock unlocks all doors. Push the switch
tab down and close the door. To lock down to lock all doors, and up to
the driver's door, pull the outside unlock them.
door handle and push the lock tab
down. Release the handle then close
the door.
CONTINUED

Keys and Locks
All doors lock when you push the Childproof Door Locks Trunk
lock tab on the driver's door.
In addition, all doors lock when you LEVER
use the key to lock either front door
from the outside.
All doors unlock immediately if you
use the key to unlock the passenger's
side door. To unlock the doors from
the driver's side, turn the key
clockwise and hold it there for
several seconds.
TRUNK RELEASE
HANDLE
The childproof door locks are You can open the trunk in two ways:
designed to prevent children seated
in the rear from accidentally opening Pull the trunk release handle to
the rear doors. Each rear door has a the left of the driver's seat.
lock lever near the edge. With the
lever in the LOCK position, the door Use the master key to open the
cannot be opened from the inside trunk lock. The valet key does not
regardless of the position of the lock work in this lock.
tab. To open the door, pull the lock
tab up and use the outside door
handle.

Keys and Locks
Glove Box
MASTER KEY MASTER KEY GLOVE BOX
To close the trunk, press down on To protect items in the trunk when Open the glove box by pulling the
the trunk lid. you need to give the key to someone bottom of the handle. Close it with a
else: firm push. Lock or unlock the glove
See page 115 for cargo loading and box with the master key.
weight limit information. Keep the 1. Lock the trunk release handle
trunk lid closed at all times while with the master key. The glove box light comes on only
driving to avoid damaging the lid and when the instrument panel lights are
getting exhaust gas in the interior. 2. Give the person the valet key. on.
See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on
page 28.
CONTINUED

Keys and Locks, Seat Adjustments
Front Seat Adjustments
An open glove box can cause

serious injury to your passenger
in a crash, even if the
passenger is wearing the seat
belt.
Always keep the glove box

closed while driving.
Adjust the seat before you start To change the angle of the seat-back,
driving. pull up on the lever on the outside of
the seat bottom. Move the seat-back
To adjust the seat forward and to the desired position and release
backward, pull up on the lever under the lever. Let the seat-back latch in
the seat cushion's front edge. Move the new position.
the seat to the desired position and
release the lever. Try to move the
seat to make sure it is locked in
position.

Seat Adjustments
Driver's Seat Power Height Driver's Seat Power Adjustments

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

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

upright position and sit well
back in the seat.
On EX V-6 model in the U.S.. and EX-R

On EX and EX V-6 models in the U.S.. and V-6 model in Canada
EX-R and EX-R V-6 models in Canada Push the horizontal switch forward
The height of your driver's seat is or backward to adjust the distance to
power adjustable. Pull up the switch the steering wheel and pedals.
to raise the seal. Push it down to
lower the seat.
CONTINUED

Seat Adjustments
Pull up or push down on the front of Pull the center of the horizontal Adjust the seat-back angle by
the switch to move the seat bottom's switch up to raise the seat. Push it pushing the rear switch in the
front edge up or down. Pull up or down to lower the seat. direction you want to move.
push down on the rear of the switch
to move the rear of the seat bottom
up or down.

Seat Adjustments
Driver's Lumbar Support
Reclining the seat-back can

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

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

upright position and sit well
back in the seat. RELEASE BUTTON
The front head restraints adjust for

On EX, EX V-6models in the U.S., and Head Restraints height. You need both hands to
EX-R, EX-R V-6 models in Canada The front head restraints help adjust the restraint. Do not attempt
Vary the lumbar support by moving protect you and your passenger from to adjust it while driving. To raise it,
the lever on the right side of the whiplash and other injuries. They are pull upward. To lower the restraint,
seat-back. Pivot the lever forward most effective when you adjust them press the release button and push
until it stops, then let it return. Doing so the top of the restraint is even the restraint down.
this several times adjusts the lumbar with the top of your ears.
support through its full range.
CONTINUED

Seat Adjustments
To remove a head restraint for Folding Rear Seat

cleaning or repair, pull it up as far as
it will go. Press the release button MASTER Pull
KEY
and pull the restraint out of the seat-
back.
Driving your car without head

restraints can lead to serious
injury to you and your
passenger in a crash.
Make sure the head restraints

are in place and adjusted The back of the rear seat folds down, To release the seat-back from inside
properly before driving. giving you direct access to the trunk. the trunk, pull the release loop under
The seat-back can be released from the rear shelf.
inside the car or inside the trunk.
To lock the seat-back upright, push it
To fold down the seat-back from firmly against the rear shelf. Make
inside the car, insert the master key sure it is latched in place by pulling
in the lock on the rear shelf. Turn on the top of the seat.
the key clockwise, pull down the top
of the seat-back, then release the
key.

Seat Adjustments
Make sure both rear shoulder belts Never drive with the seat-back Rear Seat Armrest
are positioned in front of the rear folded down and the trunk lid open. On LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6 models in
seat-back whenever the seat-back is See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on the U.S., and EX, EX V-6, EX-R and EX-R
in its upright position. page 28. V-6 models in Canada
Make sure all items in the trunk, or

items extending through the opening
into the back seat, are tied down.
Loose items can fly forward and
cause injury if you have to brake
hard. See Loading Cargo on page
115.
The rear seat armrest is located at

the center of the rear seat. Pivot it
down to use it.

Power Windows
Only on LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6 The master control panel also con-
models in the U.S., and EX, EX V-6, tains these extra features:
EX-R and EX-R V-6 models in Canada
Your car's windows are electrically- AUTO - To open the driver's
powered. Turn the ignition switch to window fully, push the window
ON (II) to raise or lower any window. switch firmly down and release it.
The window automatically goes all
Each door has a switch that controls the way down. To stop the window
its window. To open the window, from going all the way down, push
push the switch down and hold it. the window switch up briefly.
Release the switch when you want
DRIVER'S WINDOW MAIN
the window to stop. Close the SWITCH SWITCH To open the driver's window only
window by pushing the switch up partially, push the window switch
and holding it. The driver's armrest has a master down lightly and hold it. The window
power window control panel. To will stop as soon as you release the
open any of the passengers' windows, switch.
push down on the appropriate switch
and hold it down until the window The AUTO function only works to
reaches the desired position. To lower the driver's window. To raise
close the window, push up on the the window, you must push the
window switch. Release the switch window switch up and hold it until
when the window gets to the position the window reaches the desired
you want. position.

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

child's hands or fingers can MOONROOF SWITCH
cause serious injury.
On EX, EX V-6models in the U.S., and
Make sure your children are EX-R, EX-R V-6 models in Canada
away from the windows before Use the switch on the dashboard to
closing them. open and close the moonroof. The
ignition must be ON (II). Push and
hold the switch to open the
moonroof. Release the switch when
the moonroof reaches the desired
position. To close the moonroof,
press and hold the switch.
CONTINUED

Moonroof, Mirrors
The moonroof has a key-off delay. Sunshade Mirrors

You can still open and close the
moonroof for up to ten minutes after
you turn off the ignition. The key-off
delay cancels as soon as you open
either front door. You must then
turn the ignition ON (II) for the
moonroof to operate.
Closing the moonroof on

someone's hands or fingers can TAB
cause serious injury.
You can slide the sunshade to any Keep the inside and outside mirrors
Make sure passengers are position when the moonroof is closed. clean and adjusted for best visibility.
clear of the moonroof before The sunshade slides open with the Be sure to adjust the mirrors before
closing it. moonroof. You must close it manu- you start driving.
ally.
The inside mirror has day and night
NOTICE positions. The night position reduces
glare from headlights behind you.
If you try to open the moonroof in Flip the tab on the bottom edge of
below-freezing temperatures, or when the mirror to select the day or night
it is covered with snow or ice, you can position.
damage the moonroof panel or motor.

Mirrors
Manual Door Mirrors Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH
ADJUSTMENT SWITCH
Only on U.S. DX and Canadian LX On U.S. LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6 3. Push the appropriate edge of the
models models, and Canadian EX, EX V-6, EX-R adjustment switch to move the
The outside mirrors can be adjusted and EX-R V-6 models mirror right, left, up or down.
by moving the knob located on each Adjust the outside mirrors with the
front door. adjustment switch on the driver's 4. When you finish, move the
door armrest: selector switch to the center (off)
position. This turns off the
1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). adjustment switch so you can't
move a mirror out of position by
2. Move the selector switch to L accidentally bumping it.
(driver's side) or R (passenger's
side). CONTINUED

Mirrors, Parking Brake
Parking Brake NOTICE

Driving the car with the parking brake
applied can damage the rear brakes
and axles.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER
The outside mirror on the passenger's To apply the parking brake, pull the
side has curved glass. Objects look lever up fully. To release it, pull up
farther away than they are. Use this slightly, push the button, and lower
mirror to get a "wide view". Don't the lever. The parking brake light on
use it to judge the distance of things the instrument panel should go out
behind you. when the parking brake is fully
released (see page 36). If you try to
drive the car without releasing the
parking brake, the ABS cannot work
properly.

Digital Clock
H M RESET 3. Press and hold the H button until

the hour advances to the desired
time.
4. Press and hold the M button until

the numbers advance to the
desired time.
You can use the RESET button to

quickly set the time to the nearest
hour. If the displayed time is before
the half hour, pressing the RESET
button sets the clock back to the
The digital clock displays the time To set the clock: previous hour. If the displayed time
with the ignition switch ON (II). To is after the half hour, pressing the
see the time with the ignition off, 1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) to RESET button sets the clock for-
press and hold the wide button display the time. ward to the beginning of the next
under the clock. hour.
2. Swing down the front cover of the For example:
wide button under the clock
display. You will see H, M, and 1:06 would RESET backward to
RESET buttons. 1:00.
1:52 would RESET forward to 2:00.

Beverage Holder, Console Compartment
Beverage Holder Console Compartment
Push
CONSOLE COMPARTMENT
On LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6 models in Be careful when you are using the To open the console compartment,
the U.S., and EX, EX V-6, EX-R and EX-R cup holder. Spilled liquids can pull up the front edge of the lid.
V-6 models in Canada damage the upholstery, carpeting,
To open the beverage holder, push and electrical components in the To close, lower the lid and push it
on the top. It is spring-loaded and will interior. If the liquid is very hot, it down until it latches.
swing open. To close it, push it down can scald you or your passengers.
until it latches.
Use the beverage holder only when
the car is parked. If you place cups in
the holder while driving, the liquid
may spill when you go over bumps or
around corners.

Coin Box, Vanity Mirror
Coin Box Vanity Mirror
COIN BOX
To open the coin box, pull the upper On DX model in the U.S. and LX model On LX, LX V-6, EX, and EX V-6 models
edge. Close it with a firm push. in Canada in the U.S., and EX, EX V-6, EX-R, and
To use the vanity mirror, pull down EX-R V-6 models in Canada
the passenger's sun visor. To use the vanity mirror, pull down
either sun visor and swing down the
cover.
The light beside the mirror comes

on only when the light switch is
turned on.

Cigarette Lighter, Ashtrays
Cigarette Lighter Ashtrays

CIGARETTE LIGHTER
ASHTRAY
ASHTRAY
The rear ashtray is at the rear end of
The ignition switch must be in Open the front ashtray by swinging the center console. Open the ashtray
ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for the the lid down. To remove it for by swinging the upper edge of the lid
cigarette lighter to work. To heat up emptying, open the lid then pull the down. To remove the ashtray for
the lighter, push it in. It will pop out ashtray straight outward. emptying, open it then lift up and out.
when it is ready for use. Do not hold
the lighter in while it is heating up, NOTICE
you could cause it to overheat.
Use the ashtray only for cigarettes,
cigars and other smoking materials. To
prevent a possible fire and damage to
your car, don't put paper or other
tilings that can burn in the ashtray.

Interior Lights
Ceiling Light Courtesy Lights
IGNITION SWITCH LIGHT
OFF
ON
DOOR ACTIVATED DOOR LIGHT
The ceiling light has a three-position Only 6 cylinder models On LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6 models in
switch. In the OFF position, the light Turn on the spotlight by pushing the the U.S., and EX, EX V-6, EX-R and EX-R
does not come on. In the center button next to each light. Push the V-6 models in Canada
position, the ceiling light comes on button again to turn it off. You can Each door has a courtesy light. This
when you open any door. In the ON use the spotlights at all times. light comes on when you open any
position, the ceiling light stays on door.
continuously. Your car also has a courtesy light in
the ignition switch. This light comes
on when you open the driver's door.
It remains on for several seconds
after the door is closed.

Comfort and Convenience Features
The heating and air conditioning* Heating and Cooling........................ 74 Audio System (Canadian LX)......... 81
system in your car provides a com- What Each Control Does............ 76 Operating the Radio.................... 82
fortable driving environment in all How to Use the System............... 77 Finding the Radio Station........... 82
weather conditions. Controlling Air Flow Presetting..................................... 83
Direction............................... 77 Adjusting the Sound.................... 83
* Air conditioning is optional on U.S. Ventilation................................ 77 Radio Frequencies....................... 84
DX and Canadian LX models. To Cool with A/C.................... 78 Operating the Cassette Player... 85
To Heat..................................... 78 Cassette Search Functions......... 85
The audio sound system* is very To Heat and Dehumidify Caring for Cassettes.................... 85
versatile. To get the most from this with Air Conditioning.......... 79 Audio System (Except U.S. DX and
system, take the time to learn what To Defog and Defrost............. 80 Canadian LX)........................... 86
the controls do. To Turn Everything Off............. 80 Operating the Radio.................... 88
Some models have an anti-theft Presetting..................................... 90
audio system that requires a code Adjusting the Sound.................... 92
number to enable it. Radio Frequencies....................... 93
Operating the Cassette Player... 94
* Audio sound system is optional on Cassette Search Functions......... 96
the U.S. DX model. Caring for Cassettes.................... 96
Operating the CD Player............ 97
CD Error Indications................. 100
Caring for the Cassette Player..... 101
Theft Protection............................. 103

Heating and Cooling
This system has full heating, CENTER VENT SIDE VENT

ventilation, and air conditioning*
capabilities. You can adjust the
system controls to mix these in
various combinations. The air flows
into the interior at three possible
levels, which you can select.
(U.S. DX and Canadian LX models)

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

closed with the dial next to it.

Heating and Cooling

Heating and Cooling
What Each Control Does

RECIRCULATION/ AIR CONDITIONING
FRESH AIR BUTTON SWITCH
Fan Control Dial
Turning this dial clockwise increases
the fan speed, which increases air
flow.
Temperature Control Dial

Turning this dial clockwise increases
the temperature of air flowing from
the system.
Mode Buttons
These buttons control the direction
of air flow. The indicator light shows FAN CONTROL TEMPERATURE MODE BUTTONS
DIAL CONTROL DIAL
which button is controlling air flow.
Air Conditioning (A/C) Switch Recirculation/Fresh Air Button The indicator light shows which
This switch turns the air condi- This button controls the source of air mode is selected.
tioning ON and OFF. The indicator going into the system. When the
above the switch lights when the side of the button is pressed,
A/C is ON. air comes from outside the car (the
Fresh Air mode). When the
side of the button is pressed,
the interior air recycles through the
system (the Recirculation mode).

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

Heating and Cooling
To Cool with A/C

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

after the car has been sitting in the
sun:
FAN CONTROL TEMPERATURE MODE BUTTONS
DIAL CONTROL DIAL
1. Start the engine.
2. Turn on the A / C by pressing the Air conditioning places an extra load To Heat
switch. on the engine. Watch the engine To warm the interior:
3. Set the fan to maximum speed. coolant temperature gauge (see page
4. Open the windows partially. Select 40 ) when using the A/C in heavy 1. Start the engine.
and traffic or driving up long hills. If it 2. Select and
moves near the red zone, turn off the 3. Switch the fan to the desired
When the interior reaches a com- air conditioning until the gauge speed.
fortable temperature, close the reads normally. 4. Adjust the warmth of the air with
windows and set the system for the temperature control dial.
cooling as described above.

Heating and Cooling
To Heat and Dehumidify with Air

Conditioning
Air conditioning removes moisture
from the air as it operates. When
used in combination with the heater,
it makes the interior warm and dry.
1. Switch the fan on.

2. Turn on the air conditioning.
3. Select and any desired
mode button.
4. Adjust the temperature control
dial so the mixture of heated and
cooled air feels comfortable.
This setting is suitable for all driving

conditions whenever the outside
temperature is above 32°F (0°C).
FAN CONTROL TEMPERATURE MODE BUTTONS

DIAL CONTROL DIAL
CONTINUED

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

Audio System
AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio CASSETTE SLOT

System
For Canadian LX model only
Your Honda audio system is easy to
use, and will give clear A M / F M
reception. The preset buttons allow
you to select six stations on each
band.
The cassette player features auto-

reverse for continuous play.
ON/VOL KNOB TUNE PRESET AM/FM

SEEK BUTTON BAR BUTTONS BUTTON

Audio System
Operating the Radio STEREO INDICATOR

The ignition switch must be in AC-
CESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate
the audio system. Turn the system
on by turning the ON/VOL knob
clockwise. The radio comes on and
displays the frequency of the station
it was last tuned to.
Adjust the volume by turning the

ON/VOL knob.
ON/VOL KNOB TUNE PRESET AM/FM

Select the band you want to listen to Finding the Radio Station
by pressing the A M / F M button. You You can use any of three methods to
will see the selected band and the find radio stations on the selected
frequency in the display. band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset
STEREO will be displayed next to buttons.
the frequency if the station is
broadcasting in FM stereo. The AM
stereo feature is not available.

Audio System
Use the TUNE bar to change the To store a frequency: Adjusting the Sound
frequency in small increments. Press Use the Balance and Fader controls
the top to go up, and the bottom 1. Select the desired band, AM or to adjust the sound "direction". The
to go down. Press and release to FM. Balance control moves it left-to-right.
change the frequency to the next 2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function The Fader control moves it front-to-
number. to tune the radio to a desired back.
station.
Press the TUNE bar and hold it to go 3. Pick the Preset button you want Use the Tone control to adjust the
to a frequency that is far away. The for that station. Press the button bass and treble to your liking.
frequency display will begin to count and hold it until you hear a beep.
rapidly. It will stop counting when Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total The radio panel illumination comes
you release the bar. of six stations each on AM and on with the instrument panel lights,
FM. even with the radio off. You can turn
The SEEK function searches for off this illumination even with the
radio stations with strong signals. Once that station's frequency is radio on by pulling the Balance
Every time you press the ON/VOL stored, simply press and release the control knob out. Check this knob if
button, it advances to the next proper preset button to tune to it. If the lights do not come on with the in-
station. you want to change any preset strument panel lights.
button's selection, store another fre-
Presetting quency as described. The frequen-
The preset buttons allow you to store cies you preset will be lost if your
radio frequencies for later selection. car's battery goes dead or is discon-
Each button will store one frequency nected.
on the AM band, and one on the FM
band.

Audio System
Radio Frequencies STEREO INDICATOR

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

assigned frequencies at least 10 ON/VOL KNOB TUNE PRESET AM/FM
kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550).
Those on the FM band are assigned
frequencies at least 0.2 megahertz Stations must use these exact
apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3). frequencies. It is fairly common for
stations to round-off the frequency in
their advertising, so your radio will
show a frequency of 100.9 even
though the announcer may call the
station "FM101."

Audio System
Operating the Cassette Player EJECT FF/REW CASSETTE TAPE DIRECTION

Turn the system ON. Insert the BUTTON BUTTONS SLOT INDICATOR
cassette into the slot with the tape
opening to the right. Push the
cassette in most of the way. The
drive will pull it in the rest of the way
and begin to play.
The or will light to show you

which side of the cassette is playing.
The indicates the side you
inserted facing upward is now
playing. To play the other side of the
tape, press the PROG/PLAY button.
PROG/PLAY
The system also has an Auto-reverse BUTTON
feature. It will automatically reverse
direction when it reaches the end of Cassette Search Functions when you push the PLAY button.
the cassette. Fast forward and rewind allow you to
To remove the cassette from the move the tape rapidly to find a Caring for Cassettes
drive, press the EJECT button. The desired program. Note which Damaged cassettes can jam inside
system automatically ejects the direction the tape is moving from the the drive or cause other problems.
cassette whenever you turn off the Tape Direction Indicator. Press the See page 101 for information on
system or the ignition switch. FF or REW button to move the tape cassette care and protection.
in the same direction or the opposite
direction. It will go back to PLAY

Audio System
AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio (US:LX, LX V-6, ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT

System Canada: EX, EX V-6)
For U.S. LX, LX V-6, EX find EX V-6
models, and Canadian EX, EX V-6, EX-R
and EX-R V-6 models
Your Honda audio system is easy to
use, and will give clear A M / F M
reception. The preset buttons allow
you to select six stations on AM and
twelve stations on FM.
TUNE/SEEK
FF/REW/TMS AM/FM PRESET
SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS
(US: EX, EX V-6, ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT

Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6)
TUNE/SEEK

Audio System
The cassette system uses (US: LX, LX V-6, ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT
Dolby B ® * noise reduction to give Canada: EX, EX V-6)
excellent sound reproduction. The
system also senses when a metal or
chromium-dioxide (CrO2) tape is
being played and adjusts accordingly.
On U.S. EX, EX V-6 and Canadian EX-R.

EX-R V-6 models
The Anti-theft feature disables the
TUNE/SEEK
system if it is disconnected from the FF/REW/TMS AM/FM PRESET
car's battery. To get the system SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS
working again, you must enter a
code number. (US: EX, EX V-6, ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE SLOT
* Dolby noise reduction manufac-
tured under license from Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
"DOLBY" and the double-D symbol
are trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
TUNE/SEEK

Audio System
Operating the Radio (US:LX,LX V-6, ON/OFF/VOL KNOB STEREO INDICATOR

The ignition switch must be in AC- Canada: EX, EX V-6)
CESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate
the audio system. Turn the system
on by turning the ON/OFF/VOL
knob clockwise. The radio comes on
and displays the frequency of the
station it was last tuned to.
The antenna extends automatically.
The system turns off and the anten-
na retracts when you turn the igni- AM/FM
tion switch to LOCK (0). BUTTON
Adjust the volume by turning the (US: EX, EX V-6, ON/OFF/VOL KNOB STEREO INDICATOR
ON/OFF/VOL knob. Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6)
Select the band you want to listen to

by pressing the AM or FM button.
You will see the selected band and
the frequency in the display.
ST will be displayed next to the fre-
quency if the station is broadcasting
in FM stereo. The AM stereo feature
is not available.
AM/FM
BUTTON

Audio System
You can use any of three methods to (US:LX,LX V-6,

find radio stations on the selected Canada: EX, EX V-6)
band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset
buttons.
The TUNE function lets you find a

desired frequency. Push the TUNE/
SEEK switch up to change to a
higher frequency, and down to
change to a lower frequency.
To change the frequency up or down TUNE/SEEK PRESET
a single increment, push and release SWITCH BUTTONS
the TUNE/SEEK switch.
(US: EX, EX V-6,
The SEEK function searches the Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6)
band for stations with a strong signal.
Depending on which way you push
the TUNE/SEEK switch, the system
searches up or down from the
current frequency. Push the switch
until you hear a beep, then release it.
The system searches until it finds a
station with a strong signal, then
stops. If you do not want to listen to
TUNE/SEEK PRESET
that station, push TUNE/SEEK SWITCH BUTTONS
again.

Audio System
Presetting (US: LX, LX V-6,

The preset buttons allow you to store Canada: EX, EX V-6)
radio frequencies for later selection.
Each button will store one frequency
on the AM band, and two on the FM
band.
To store a frequency:
1. Select the desired band, AM or

FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store
two frequencies with each Preset TUNE/SEEK AM/FM PRESET
button. SWITCH BUTTON BUTTONS
2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function (US: EX, EX V-6, AUTO SELECT LIGHT
to tune the radio to a desired Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6)
station.
3. Pick the Preset button you want

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

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

Audio System
Once that station's frequency is On U.S. EX, EX V-6 and Canadian EX-R. AUTO SELECT does not erase the
stored, simply press and release the EX-R V-6 models stations you have manually preset.
proper preset button to tune to it. If The AUTO SELECT function allows When you return to your normal
you want to change any preset you to find stations easily when you reception area, turn off AUTO
button's selection, store another fre- are in an unfamiliar area. Press the SELECT by pressing the button
quency as described. The frequen- AUTO SELECT button. The system again. The light goes out and the
cies you preset will be lost if your automatically scans both bands to Preset buttons can then select the
car's battery goes dead or is discon- find six strong stations on AM and stations you originally set.
nected. twelve on FM, and stores their
frequencies in the Preset buttons. You cannot manually store radio
You can then use the Preset buttons station frequencies in the Preset
in the normal manner to select those buttons when AUTO SELECT is ON.
stations. "A SELECT" stays If you do not like the stations found
displayed next to the frequency as a by AUTO SELECT, you can still use
reminder. the TUNE or SEEK function to find
other stations.
If you are in a remote area, AUTO
SELECT may not find enough
stations to fill all the available
presets. If this is the case, you will
see a "0" displayed when you press
any Preset button that does not have
a station stored.

Audio System
Adjusting the Sound

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

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

Audio System
Radio Frequencies (US: LX, LX V-6, STEREO INDICATOR

Your Honda's radio can tune in all Canada: EX, EX V-6)
frequencies in both the AM and FM
bands.
Those bands cover these frequen-
cies:
AM band:
530 kilohertz to 1,710 kilohertz
FM band:
87.7 megahertz to 107.9 mega-
hertz AM/FM
BUTTON
Radio stations on the AM band are
assigned frequencies at least 10 (US: EX, EX V-6, STEREO INDICATOR
kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550). Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6)
Those on the FM band are assigned
frequencies at least 0.2 megahertz
apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3).
Stations must use these exact

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

Audio System
Operating the Cassette Player (US: LX, LX V-6, ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE TAPE DIRECTION
Turn the system ON. Insert the Canada: EX, EX V-6) SLOT INDICATOR
cassette into the slot with the tape
opening to the right. Push the
cassette in most of the way. The
drive will pull it in the rest of the way
and begin to play.
The or will light to show you

which side of the cassette is playing.
The indicates the side you EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY
inserted facing upward is now BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON
playing. To play the other side of the
tape, press the PROG button. (US: EX, EX V-6, ON/OFF/VOL KNOB CASSETTE TAPE DIRECTION
Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6) SLOT INDICATOR
The system also has an Auto-reverse
feature. It will automatically reverse
direction when it reaches the end of
the cassette.
EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY

BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON

Audio System
Dolby® noise reduction turns on (US: LX, LX V-6,

when you insert a cassette. If the Canada: EX, EX V-6)
tape was not recorded with Dolby
" B " noise reduction, turn it off by
pressing the button.
To remove the cassette from the

drive, press the EJECT button. The
system automatically ejects the
cassette whenever you turn off the
system or the ignition switch. FF/REW/TMS EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY REPEAT
SWITCH BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON
(US: EX, EX V-6,

FF/REW/TMS EJECT PROG PLAY DOLBY REPEAT

SWITCH BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON BUTTON

Audio System
Cassette Search Functions system will continue repeating this The REPEAT and TMS functions
Once a cassette is playing, you can passage until you turn off REPEAT use silent periods on the tape to find
use the FF, REW, TMS, or REPEAT by pressing the button again. the end of a selection. These
function to look for desired songs or features may not work satisfactorily
passages. The TMS function lets you skip to on tapes that have almost no gap
the beginning of a song or other between songs, a high noise level
To rewind the tape, push the F F / passage. The tape skips forward or between songs, or silent periods in
REW/TMS switch down then backward, depending on which the middle of songs.
release it. You will see REW in the direction you push the FF/REW/
display. To fast forward the tape, TMS switch. Caring for Cassettes
push the switch up then release it. Damaged cassettes can jam inside
You will see FF displayed. To stop Activate TMS by pushing the FF/ the drive or cause other problems.
rewind or fast forward, press the REW/TMS switch and holding it See page 102 for information on
PLAY button. If the system reaches until you hear a beep. If you push the cassette care and protection.
the end of the cassette while in fast switch down, you will see REW
forward or rewind, it automatically blinking in the display as the tape
stops that function, reverses rewinds. If you push the switch up,
direction, and begins to play. you will see FF blinking in the
Press the REPEAT button to replay display as the tape fast forwards.
the current passage. You will see When the system senses a silent
RPT displayed. When the system period on the tape, it goes back to
reaches the end of the song or PLAY mode.
passage that is being played, it
automatically goes into rewind.
When it senses the beginning of that
passage, it goes back to play. The

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

Audio System
(US: LX, LX V-6, ON/OFF/VOL KNOB RPT INDICATOR

Canada: EX, EX V-6)
TUNE/SEEK CD BUTTON REPEAT

SWITCH BUTTON
(US: EX, EX V-6, ON/OFF/VOL KNOB A. SELECT RPT INDICATOR

Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6) INDICATOR
TUNE/SEEK CD BUTTON A. SELECT/

SWITCH REPEAT BUTTON

Audio System
If you push the REPEAT button on On U.S. EX, EX V-6 and Canadian EX-R. If you change modes to radio or
the U.S. LX, LX V-6 and Canadian EX, EX-R V-6 models tape while a CD is playing, then
EX V-6 models or the A. SELECT/ You can get the CD player to change back to CD mode, the
REPEAT button on the U.S. EX, EX randomly select tracks by pressing same disc and track will play.
V-6 and Canadian EX-R, EX-R V-6 A. SELECT/REPEAT until you see
models, the system will continuously A. SELECT in the display. If you turn off the system while a
play the track you are listening to. With this active, the system selects CD is playing, either with the ON-
You will see RPT in the display. Push and plays the tracks randomly, OFF/VOL knob or by turning off
the switch again to turn off the rather than sequentially, on each the ignition, the system will begin
REPEAT mode. disc. When the system has played all at the same disc and track when
the tracks on that disc, it loads the you turn it back on.
next disc and starts to play randomly.
The system continues to select and If you try to select an empty slot in
play tracks randomly on each of the the magazine, the system will
six discs until you press the select and play the first track of
A. SELECT/REPEAT button again. the next disc in the magazine.
To turn on random play mode while To return to the radio function, press
the system is in the REPEAT mode, the A M / F M button.
turn off REPEAT mode first by
pressing the A. SELECT/REPEAT
button. Then, press the button again
as explained above.

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

Caring for the Cassette Player
For Canadian LX model only CLEAN LIGHT Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes.
The cassette drive picks up dirt and Cassettes longer than 100 minutes
oxides whenever you play a tape. use thinner tape that may break or
This builds up over time and causes jam the drive.
the sound quality to degrade. To Look at a cassette before you insert
prevent this, you should clean the it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by
cassette drive after every 30 hours of CLEAN
turning one of the hubs with a pencil
use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit or your finger.
available for this purpose. If the label is peeling off, do not put
it in the player. It may cause the
To remind you, a small red light cassette to jam in the drive mecha-
labelled CLEAN comes on every 50 nism when you try to eject it.
hours of tape use. If you are already Do not leave cassettes sitting where
regularly cleaning the tape drive at The cassette player automatically they are exposed to high heat or
least every 30 hours, simply push the ejects cassettes that do not play humidity, such as on top of the
CLEAN light for five seconds to turn normally. If it ejects a cassette dashboard or in the player. If a
it off. before it begins to play, it is probably cassette is exposed to extreme heat
defective and should not be inserted or cold, let it reach a moderate
If you do not clean the cassette drive again. You may have a cassette temperature before putting it in the
regularly, it may eventually become suddenly stop playing, reverse player.
impossible to remove the deposits directions once or twice and then
with a normal cleaning kit. eject. This is normally an indication
the tape is wound unevenly. It should
play normally after being manually
rewound.
CONTINUED

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

Theft Protection
On U.S. EX, EX V-6 and Canadian EX-R, If your car's battery is disconnected You will have to store your favorite
EX-R V-6 models or goes dead, the audio system will stations in the Preset buttons after
Your car's audio system will disable disable itself. If this happens, you the system begins working. Your
itself if it is disconnected from will see "Code" in the frequency original settings were lost when
electrical power for any reason. To display the next time you turn on the power was disconnected.
make it work again, the user must system. Use the Preset buttons to
enter a specific five-digit code in the enter the five-digit code. If it is
Preset buttons. Because there are entered correctly, the radio will start
hundreds of number combinations playing.
possible from five digits, making the
system work without knowing the If you make a mistake entering the
exact code is nearly impossible. code, do not start over or try to
correct your mistake. Complete the
You should have received two copies five-digit sequence, then enter the
of a card that lists your audio system's correct code. You have three tries to
code number and serial number. It is enter the correct code. If you are
best to store one of these cards in a unsuccessful in three attempts, you
safe place at home, and to keep the must then leave the system on for
other in your wallet or purse. In one hour before trying again.
addition, you should write the audio
system's serial number in this
Owner's Manual. If you should
happen to lose both cards, you must
obtain the code number from your
Honda dealer. To do this, you will
need the system's serial number.

Before Driving
Before you begin driving your Honda, Break-in Period.............................. 106

you should know what gasoline to Gasoline.......................................... 106
use, and how to check the levels of Oxygenated Fuels...................... 106
important fluids. You also need to Driving in Foreign Countries... 107
know how to properly stow luggage Service Station Procedures .......... 108
or packages. This section will help Filling the Fuel Tank................. 108
you. If you plan to add any accesso- Opening the Hood..................... 109
ries to your car, please read the Fuel Economy................................ 113
information in this section first. Vehicle Condition...................... 113
Driving Habits............................ 113
Accessories..................................... 114
Loading Cargo................................ 115
Before Driving
Break-in Period, Gasoline
Break-in Period Gasoline Oxygenated Fuels

Help assure your car's future Your Honda operates most effec- Some conventional gasolines are
reliability and performance by paying tively on unleaded gasoline with a being blended with alcohol or an
extra attention to how you drive pump octane number of 86 or higher. ether compound. These gasolines
during the first 1,000 km (600 miles). Use of a lower octane gasoline can are collectively referred to as
During this period: cause a persistent, heavy metallic oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air
rapping noise in the engine that can standards, some areas of the United
Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid lead to mechanical damage. States and Canada use oxygenated
acceleration. fuels to help reduce emissions.
We recommend gasolines containing
If you need to add oil, use the detergent additives that help prevent If you use an oxygenated fuel, be
engine oil recommended in this fuel system and engine deposits. sure it is unleaded and meets the
owner's manual. minimum octane rating requirement.
Using gasoline containing lead will
Avoid hard braking. New brakes damage your car's emission controls. Before using an oxygenated fuel, try
need to be broken-in by moderate This contributes to air pollution and to confirm the fuel's contents. Some
use for the first 300 km (200 can void certain parts of your states/provinces require this
miles). warranty. information to be posted on the
pump.
You should follow these same re-
commendations with an overhauled
or exchanged engine, or when the
brakes are relined.
Before Driving
Gasoline
The following are the EPA-approved METHANOL (methyl or wood Driving in Foreign Countries
percentages of oxygenates: alcohol) Using any type of leaded gasoline in
You may use gasoline containing up your Honda will affect performance
ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) to 5% methanol by volume as long as and damage its emission controls.
You may use gasoline containing up it also contains cosolvents and Unleaded gasoline may not be
to 10% ethanol by volume. Gasoline corrosion inhibitors to protect the available in other countries. If you
containing ethanol may be marketed fuel system. Gasoline containing are planning to take your car outside
under the name "Gasohol." more than 5% methanol by volume the U.S. or Canada, write to Honda at
may cause starting and/or perform- the address shown for information
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl ance problems. It may also damage about any modifications your car
Ether) metal, rubber and plastic parts of may need. Be sure to include the
You may use gasoline containing up your fuel system. year and model of your car.
to 15% MTBE by volume.
If you notice any undesirable U.S. Owners:
operating symptoms, try another American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
service station or switch to another Consumer Affairs
brand of gasoline. 1919 Torrance Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90501-2746
Fuel system damage or performance
problems resulting from the use of Canadian Owners:
an oxygenated fuel containing more Honda Canada Inc.
than the percentages of oxygenates 715 Milner Ave.
given above are not covered under Scarborough, Ontario M1B 2K8
warranty.
Before Driving
Service Station Procedures
Filling the Fuel Tank 3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.
You may hear a hissing sound as
Gasoline is highly flammable pressure inside the tank escapes.
and explosive. You can be Place the fuel fill cap on the inside
burned or seriously injured of the door as shown.
Pull when handling fuel.
4. Stop filling the lank after the fuel
Stop the engine and keep pump automatically clicks off. Do
heat, sparks, and flame away. not try to "top off" the tank, leave
Handle fuel only outdoors. some room for the fuel to expand
Wipe up spills immediately. with temperature changes.
5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on,

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

on the handle to the left of the
driver's seat.
FUEL FILL CAP
Before Driving
Opening the Hood
HOOD RELEASE HANDLE SUPPORT ROD
LATCH
1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set 2. Standing in front of the car, put 4 cylinder models
the parking brake. Pull the hood your fingers under the front edge 3. Pull the support rod out of its clip
release handle, located under the of the hood to the right of center. and insert the end into the hole on
left lower corner of the dashboard. Slide your hand to the left until the front of the hood around the
The hood will pop up slightly. you feel the hood latch handle. center.
Push this handle up until it
releases the hood. Lift the hood. To close the hood, lift it up slightly to
remove the support rod from the
hole. Put the support rod back into
its holding clip. Lower the hood to
about a foot above the fender, then
let it drop.
CONTINUED
Before Driving
Oil Check
4 cylinder models DIPSTICK 6 cylinder models DIPSTICK
6 cylinder models Check the engine oil level every time

3. Lift the hood up most of the way. you fill the car with fuel. Wait at least
The hydraulic supports will lift it two minutes after turning the engine
up the rest of the way and hold it off before you check the oil.
up.
1. Remove the dipstick (orange
To close the hood, lower it and press handle).
down firmly with your hands.
Before Driving
4 cylinder models 6 cylinder models
2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean 3. Insert it all the way back in its tube.
cloth or paper towel.
Before Driving
Engine Coolant Check
MAX RESERVE TANK MAX RESERVE TANK
UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK
4 cylinder models MIN 6 cylinder models MIN
4. Remove it again and check the Look at the coolant level in the Refer to Periodic Checks on page
level. It should be between the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is 146 for information on checking
upper and lower marks. between the MAX and M I N lines. If other items in your Honda.
it is below the M I N line, see Adding
If it is near or below the lower mark, Engine Coolant on page 156 for
see page 149 for information on the information on adding the proper
proper oil and how to add it. coolant.
Before Driving
Fuel Economy
The condition of your car and your Driving Habits A cold engine uses more fuel than a
driving habits are the two most You can improve fuel economy by warm engine. It is not necessary to
important things that affect the fuel driving moderately. Rapid acceler- "warm-up" a cold engine by letting it
mileage you get. ation, abrupt cornering, and hard idle for a long time. You can drive
braking use more fuel. away in about a minute, no matter
Vehicle Condition how cold it is outside. The engine
Always maintain your car according Always drive in the highest gear that will warm up faster, and you get
to the maintenance schedule. This allows the engine to run and acceler- better fuel economy. To cut down on
will keep it in top operating condition. ate smoothly. the number of "cold starts," try to
combine several short trips into one.
An important part of that mainte- Depending on traffic conditions, try
nance is the Periodic Checks (see to maintain a constant speed. Every The air conditioning puts an extra
page 146 ). For example an under- time you slow down and speed up, load on the engine which makes it
inflated tire causes more "rolling your car uses extra fuel. Use the use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to
resistance," which uses fuel. It also cruise control, when appropriate, to cut down on air conditioning use.
wears out faster, so check the tire increase fuel economy. Use the flow-through ventilation
pressure at least monthly. In winter, when the outside air temperature is
the build-up of snow on your car's moderate.
underside adds weight and rolling
resistance. Frequent cleaning helps
your fuel mileage and reduces the
chance of corrosion.
Before Driving
Accessories
Your Honda dealer has many Your car has several computer- In many cases, improper installation
Genuine Honda Accessories that controlled systems, including the is the real cause of problems with
allow you to personalize your car. SRS system, the engine's fuel aftermarket accessories. Have these
These have all been approved for injection, and the Anti-lock brake accessories installed by qualified
installation and use on your car, and system. Strong electronic inter- technicians who are familiar with
are covered by warranty. ference can affect their operation. your Honda. If possible, have your
Honda dealer inspect the final
Some non-Honda accessories you Electronic communications equip- installation.
can buy in the "aftermarket" are ment, such as cellular telephones
designed for universal applications. and two-way radios are regulated by
Although they may fit your Honda, the FCC (DOC in Canada) and
they may not be within factory should not interfere with your car's
specifications. For example, after- systems. Improper installation, or
market wheels may not meet Honda's using electrical equipment not in-
specifications for width and offset. tended for mobile use may interfere
They could cause suspension with your car's operation. If you want
problems which would not be to install a cellular telephone, other
covered by your warranty. Im- mobile communications equipment
properly-designed accessories can or even add-on stereo amplifiers,
adversely affect your car's handling please discuss it first with your
and stability. Honda dealer.
Before Driving
Loading Cargo
The maximum load you can carry in To figure out how much cargo you Where you store this cargo, and how
your Honda is 385 kg (850 Ibs). It can carry: well you secure it, are just as
includes the total weight of all important as how much it weighs.
passengers and their belongings, any Figure the total "occupant weight" Make sure you load cargo so it will
accessories, and the tongue weight you will be transporting. To do this, not shift while driving. When storing
of a trailer. This 385 kg (850 Ibs) multiply the number of people items in the trunk, place them as far
figure is shown as the Vehicle (driver and all passengers) by 70 forward as possible. You could store
Capacity Weight on the tire infor- kg (150 Ibs). additional items on the floor behind
mation label attached to the passen- Subtract this number from the the front seats. Make sure they
ger's doorjamb. Vehicle Capacity Weight (385 k g / cannot roll under the front seat and
850 Ibs). interfere with the pedals.
If you are towing a trailer, subtract
the tongue weight. See Towing a If you must carry large objects that
Trailer on page 131. prevent you from closing the trunk
lid, be aware that exhaust gas can
This final number is the total weight enter the interior. See Carbon
of cargo you can load in or on the car. Monoxide Hazard on page 28 .
With five occupants (driver and four
passengers), the maximum recom- Never place items on the shelf
mended weight for cargo is 45 kg behind the back seat. Those items
(100 Ibs). can fly forward and injure you or
your passengers if you brake hard or
are involved in a collision.
Before Driving
Driving
This section gives you tips on Preparing to Drive......................... 118

starting the engine under various Starting the Engine........................ 119
conditions, and how to operate the 5-speed Manual
manual and automatic transmissions. Transmission......................... 119
It also includes important infor- Automatic
mation on your car's braking system Transmission.......................... 119
and facts you need if you are plan- Starting in Cold Weather
ning to tow a trailer. at High Altitude ..................... 120
5-speed Manual Transmission..... 121
Recommended Shift Points...... 121
Maximum Speeds...................... 122
Automatic Transmission.............. 122
Shift Lever Positions................. 123
Maximum Speeds...................... 126
Shift Lock Release..................... 126
The Braking System...................... 127
Brake Wear Indicators.............. 127
Brake System Design................ 127
Anti-lock Brakes........................ 128
Driving in Bad Weather................ 129
Towing a Trailer............................ 131
Driving
Preparing to Drive
You should do the following checks 5. Check the adjustment of the seat 10. Turn the ignition ON (II). Check
and adjustments every day before (see page 56). the indicator lights in the instru-
you drive your car. ment panel.
6. Check the adjustment of the
1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, inside and outside mirrors (see 11. Start the engine (see page 119 ).
and outside lights are clean and page 64).
unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, 12. Check the gauges and indicator
or ice. 7. Check the adjustment of the lights in the instrument panel (see
steering wheel (see page 46). page 35 ).
2. Check that the hood and trunk are
fully closed. 8. Make sure the doors are securely
closed and locked.
3. Visually check the tires. If a tire
looks low, use a gauge to check its 9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that
pressure. your passengers have fastened
their seat belts (see page 7 ).
4. Check that any items you may be
carrying with you inside are stored
properly or fastened down
securely.
Driving
Starting the Engine
5-speed Manual Transmission 5. If the engine does not start within Automatic Transmission
1. Apply the parking brake. 15 seconds, or starts but stalls 1. Apply the parking brake.
right away, repeat step 4 with the
2. In cold weather, turn off all accelerator pedal pressed half-way 2. In cold weather, turn off all
electrical accessories to reduce down. If the engine starts, release electrical accessories to reduce
the drain on the battery. pressure on the accelerator pedal the drain on the battery.
so the engine does not race.
3. Push the clutch pedal down all the 3. Make sure the shift lever is in
way. START (III) does not 6. If the engine still does not start, Park. Press on the brake pedal.
function unless the clutch pedal is press the accelerator pedal all the
depressed. way down and hold it there while 4. Without touching the accelerator
starting in order to clear flooding. pedal, turn the ignition key to the
4. Without touching the accelerator As before, keep the ignition key in START (III) position. If the engine
pedal, turn the ignition key to the the START (III) position for no does not start right away, do not
START (III) position. If the engine more than 15 seconds. Return to hold the key in START (III) for
does not start right away, do not step 5 if the engine does not start. more than 15 seconds at a time.
hold the key in START (III) for If it starts, lift your foot off the Pause for at least 10 seconds
more than 15 seconds at a time. accelerator pedal so the engine before trying again.
Pause for at least 10 seconds does not race.
before trying again.
CONTINUED
Driving
Starting the Engine
5. If the engine does not start within Starting in Cold Weather at High 3. If the engine fails to start in step 2,
15 seconds, or starts but stalls Altitude (Above 2,400 meters/ push the accelerator pedal to the
right away, repeat step 4 with the 8,000 feet) floor and hold it there while you
accelerator pedal pressed half-way An engine is harder to start in cold try to start the engine for no more
down. If the engine starts, release weather. The thinner air found at than 15 seconds. If the engine
pressure on the accelerator pedal high altitude above 2,400 meters does not start, return to step 2.
so the engine does not race. (8,000 feet) adds to the problem.
Use the following procedure:
6. If the engine still does not start,
press the accelerator pedal all the 1. Turn off all electrical accessories
way down and hold it there while to reduce the drain on the battery.
starting in order to clear flooding.
As before, keep the ignition key in 2. Push the accelerator pedal half-
the START (III) position for no way to the floor and hold it there
more than 15 seconds. Return to while starting the engine. Do not
step 5 if the engine does not start. hold the ignition key in START
If it starts, lift your foot off the (III) for more than 15 seconds.
accelerator pedal so the engine When the engine starts, release
does not race. the accelerator pedal gradually as
the engine speeds up and smooths
out.
Driving
5-speed Manual Transmission
Come to a full stop before you shift Recommended Shift Points

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

The speeds in this table are the Your Honda's transmission has four
maximums for the given gears. If forward speeds, and is electronically
you exceed these speeds, the engine controlled for smoother shifting. It
speed will enter into the tachometer's also has a "lock-up" torque converter
red zone. If this occurs, you may feel for better fuel economy. You may
the engine cut in and out. This is feel what seems like another shift
caused by a limiter in the engine's when the converter locks.
computer controls. The engine will
run normally when you reduce the
RPM below the red zone.
(US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX)
Driving
Automatic Transmission
Shift Lever Positions

SHIFT
LEVER
This display is on the instrument The shift lever has seven positions.
panel between the speedometer and It must be in Park or Neutral to start
tachometer. It shows you the the engine. When you are stopped in
position of the shift lever. It also D4, D3, 2 , 1 , N or R, press firmly on
indicates a possible problem in the the brake pedal and keep your foot
transmission if the "D4" indicator off the accelerator pedal.
light flashes.
CONTINUED
Driving
Park (P) — This position mechani- Neutral (N) — Use Neutral if you
cally locks the transmission. Use need to restart a stalled engine, or if
Park whenever you are turning off or it is necessary to stop briefly with
starting the engine. To shift out of the engine idling. Shift to Park posi-
Park, you must press on the brake tion if you need to leave the car for
pedal and have your foot off the any reason. Press on the brake pedal
accelerator pedal. Press the release when you are moving the shift lever
button on the side of the shift lever from Neutral to another gear.
to move it.
Drive (D4) — Use this position for
If you have done all of the above and your normal driving. The transmis-
still cannot move the lever out of sion automatically selects a suitable
Park, see Shift Lock Release on page gear for your speed and acceleration.
126. You may notice the transmission
Reverse (R) — To shift to Reverse shifting up at higher speeds when
You must also press the release from Park, see the explanation under the engine is cold. This helps the
button to shift into Park. To avoid Park. To shift to Reverse from engine warm up faster.
transmission damage, come to a Neutral, come to a complete stop and
complete stop before shifting into then shift. Press the release button
Park. The shift lever must be in Park before shifting into Reverse from
before you can remove the key from Neutral.
the ignition switch.
Driving
Drive (D3) —This position is similar Second (2) — To shift to Second, First (1) — To shift from Second to
to D4, except only the first three press the release button on the side First, press the release button on the
gears are selected. Use D3 when of the shift lever. This position locks side of the shift lever. With the lever
towing a trailer in hilly terrain, or to the transmission in second gear. It in this position, the transmission
provide engine braking when going does not downshift to first gear locks in First gear. By upshifting and
down a steep hill. D3 can also keep when you come to a stop. Second downshifting through 1, 2, D3 and D4,
the transmission from cycling gives you more power when climbing, you can operate this transmission
between third and fourth gears in and increased engine braking when much like a manual transmission
stop-and-go driving. going down steep hills. Use second without a clutch pedal.
gear when starting out on a slippery
For faster acceleration when in D3 or surface or in deep snow. It will help
D4, you can get the transmission to reduce wheelspin.
automatically downshift by pushing
the accelerator pedal to the floor. Whenever you move the shift lever
The transmission will shift down one to a lower gear, the transmission
or two gears, depending on your downshifts only if the engine's
speed. redline will not be exceeded in the
lower gear.
Driving
Maximum Speeds 6 cylinder models RELEASE BUTTON

The speeds in this table are the
maximums for the given position. If
you exceed these speeds, the engine
speed will enter into the tachometer's
red zone. If this occurs, you will feel
the engine cut in and out. This is
caused by a limiter in the engine's
computer controls. The engine will
run normally when you reduce the
RPM below the red zone. Shift Lock Release
This allows you to move the shift SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT
4 cylinder models lever out of Park if the normal
method of pushing on the brake 4. Push down on the key while you
pedal and pressing the release press the release button and move
button does not work. the shift lever out of Park to
Neutral.
1. Set the Parking brake.
5. Remove the key from the Shift
2. Remove the key from the ignition Lock Release slot. Depress the
switch. brake pedal and restart the engine.
3. Insert the key in the Shift Lock If you need to use the Shift Lock
Release slot next to the shift lever. Release, it could mean your car is
developing a problem. Have the car
checked by your Honda dealer.
Driving
The Braking System
Your Honda is equipped with front Check your brakes after driving Brake System Design
disc brakes. The brakes on the rear through deep water. Apply the The hydraulic system that operates
wheels may be disc or drum, brakes moderately to see if they feel the brakes has two separate circuits.
depending on model. The braking normal. If not, apply them gently and Each circuit works diagonally across
system is power-assisted to reduce frequently until they do. Since a the car (the left-front brake is
the effort needed on the brake pedal. longer distance is needed to stop connected with the right-rear brake,
with wet brakes, be extra cautious etc.). If one circuit should develop a
Put your foot on the brake pedal only and alert in your driving. problem, you will still have braking
when you intend to brake. Resting at two wheels.
your foot on the pedal keeps the Brake Wear Indicators
brakes applied lightly, causing them The front disc brakes on all cars
to build up heat. Heat build-up can have audible brake wear indicators.
reduce how well your brakes work. It They are also on the rear brakes of
also keeps your brake lights on all cars equipped with ABS. Front
the time, confusing drivers behind When the brake pads need replacing,
you. you will hear a distinctive metallic
"screeching" sound when you apply
Constant application of the brakes the brakes. If you do not have the
when going down a long hill builds brake pads replaced, they will begin
up heat and reduces their effective- screeching all the time.
ness. Use the engine to assist the
brakes by downshifting to a lower Your brakes may sometimes squeal
gear and taking your foot off the or squeak when you apply them
accelerator pedal. lightly. Do not confuse this with the
brake wear indicators. They make a
very audible "screeching". CONTINUED
Driving
The Braking System
If this happens, you will immediately control. It does this by helping you to ABS INDICATOR*
notice that the brake pedal goes prevent the wheels from locking up
down much farther and you need to and skidding.
press on it much harder. A much The ABS is always "On". It requires
longer distance will be needed to no special effort or driving technique.
stop the car. You will feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal when the ABS activates.
Slow the car by downshifting to a
lower gear and removing your foot Activation varies with the amount of
from the accelerator pedal. Pull to traction your tires have. On dry
the side of the road as soon as it is pavement, you will need to press on
safe. Because of the longer stopping the brake pedal very hard before you * U.S. indicator shown
distance needed, brake system feel the pedal pulsation that means
failure is very hazardous. It is best to the ABS has activated. However, you The ABS is self-checking. If anything
have your car towed, but if you must may feel the ABS activate immedi- goes wrong, the ABS indicator on
drive the car in this condition, be ately if you are trying to stop on the instrument panel comes on (see
extremely cautious. Have your car snow or ice. Under all conditions, the page 37 ). This means the Anti-lock
repaired as soon as possible. ABS is helping to prevent the wheels function of the braking system has
from locking so you can retain shut down. The brakes still work like
Anti-lock Brakes steering control. You should con- a conventional system, providing
The U.S. EX, LX V-6, EX V-6 and tinue to press on the brake pedal normal stopping ability. You should
Canadian EX-R, EX V-6, EX-R V-6 with the same force. have the dealer inspect your car as
models have an Anti-lock Brake soon as possible.
System (ABS) as standard equipe- You may feel a slight movement of
ment. It is optional on other models. the brake pedal just after you start
ABS helps you maintain steering the engine. This is the ABS working.
Driving
The Braking System, Driving in Bad Weather
A car with ABS may require a longer Driving in Bad Weather Driving Technique — Always drive
distance to stop on loose or uneven slower than you would in dry
surfaces than an equivalent car with- weather. It takes your car longer to
out Anti-lock. The ABS cannot make react, even in conditions that may
up for road conditions or bad judg- seem just barely damp. Apply
ment. It is still your responsibility to smooth, even pressure to all the
drive at reasonable speeds for controls. Abrupt steering wheel
weather and traffic conditions, and movements or sudden, hard appli-
to leave a margin of safety. cation of the brakes can cause loss of
control in wet weather. Be extra
For a technical description of the cautious for the first few miles of
ABS hardware, refer to page 236 . driving while you adjust to the
change in driving conditions. This is
especially true in snow. A person can
Rain, fog, and snow conditions re- forget some snow-driving techniques
quire a different driving technique during the summer months. Practice
because of reduced traction and is needed to relearn those skills.
visibility. Keep your car well-
maintained and exercise greater Exercise extra caution when driving
caution when you need to drive in in rain after a long dry spell. After
bad weather. The cruise control months of dry weather, the first
should not be used in these condi- rains bring oil to the surface of the
tions. roadway, making it slippery.
CONTINUED
Driving
Driving in Bad Weather
Visibility — Being able to see Traction — Check your tires

clearly in all directions and being frequently for wear and proper
visible to other drivers are important pressure. Both are important in
in all weather conditions. This is preventing "hydroplaning" (loss of
more difficult in bad weather. To be traction on a wet surface). In the
seen more clearly during daylight winter, mount snow tires on all four
hours, turn on your headlights. wheels for the best handling.
Inspect your windshield wipers and Watch road conditions carefully,

washers frequently. Keep the wind- they can change from moment to
shield washer reservoir full of the moment. Wet leaves can be as slip-
proper fluid. Have the windshield pery as ice. "Clear" roads can have
wiper blades replaced if they start to patches of ice. Driving conditions
streak the windshield or leave parts can be very hazardous when the
unwiped. Use the defrosters and air outside temperature is near freezing. Be very cautious when passing, or
conditioning to keep the windows The road surface can become being passed by other vehicles. The
from fogging up on the inside (see covered with areas of water puddles spray from large vehicles reduces
page 80). mixed with areas of ice, so your your visibility, and the wind buffeting
traction can change without warning. can cause you to lose control.
Be careful when downshifting. If

traction is low, you can lock up the
drive wheels for a moment and cause
a skid.
Driving
Towing a Trailer
Your Honda is designed primarily to The total weight of the trailer and The combined weight of the car,
carry passengers and their cargo. everything loaded in it must not all passengers and their luggage,
You can use it to tow a trailer if you exceed 450 kg (1,000 Ibs). and tongue load must not exceed
carefully observe some general rules. the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.
The "tongue load" should never The GVWR is printed on the
exceed 45 kg (100 Ibs). This is the Certification label attached to the
amount of weight the trailer puts driver's doorjamb (see page 232 ).
on the hitch when it is fully-loaded.
As a rule of thumb, the tongue The combined weight of the car,
load should be 10% of the total all passengers and their luggage,
trailer package. and tongue load also must not
For example, if the trailer and its exceed the Gross Axle Weight
load weigh 225 kg (500 Ibs), the Rating. The GAWR is also shown
tongue load should be 22.5 kg (50 on the Certification label. It tells
Ibs). Adjust the the trailer's cargo you the maximum load for the
to change the tongue load. Start by front and rear axles. It is possible
putting approximately 60% of the that your towing package does not
cargo toward the front and 40% exceed the GVWR but does
toward the rear. Never load the exceed the GAWR. Improper
trailer so the back is heavier than trailer loading, and/or too much
the front. This takes weight off luggage in the trunk can overload
your car's rear axle and reduces the rear axle. Redistribute the load
traction. and check the axle weights again.
CONTINUED
Driving
Towing a Trailer
The best way to confirm that your Trailer Hitches

total towing package is within these Your Honda dealer, or the Honda
Improperly loading your car and specifications is to get it weighed. Customer Relations Zone Office, can
trailer can seriously affect its Load the car and trailer as you give you advice on the proper hitch
steering and braking normally would while towing, and for your car. Never use a hitch that
performance, causing a crash take them to a public scale. Have mounts only to the rear bumper. The
in which you can be seriously them check the total weight and the bumper is not designed to handle
injured. weight at each axle, then compare that type of load. The hitch should
them to the specifications. bolt to the underbody of the car and
Check the loading of your car distribute the load over a wide area.
and trailer carefully before Always have a trailer hitch installed
starting to drive. by a qualified technician.
NOTICE
A trailer hitch that is not adequate for
the size of the trailer, or a hitch that is
improperly installed, can cause damage
to the underside of your car.
Driving
Towing a Trailer
Mirrors Connecting the Trailer Always use a safety chain when

Many states and provinces have laws Most trailers that have a gross towing a trailer. Connect the safety
requiring special outside mirrors weight of 450 kg (1,000 Ibs) do not chain securely at both ends. Make
when you are towing a trailer. Check have their own braking system. If sure the chain crosses under the
the laws in your area. You may want you are thinking of getting a trailer tongue so it will catch the trailer if it
to install mirrors, even if they are not that does have brakes, make sure becomes unhitched. Leave enough
required. Hook up the trailer and see they are electrically-operated. There slack in the chain so it can't bind in a
how much it obscures your ability to are no provisions in your car to tap sharp turn. Do not let it drag on the
see behind you with the standard into its hydraulic braking system. ground.
mirrors. If you cannot see directly Any attempt to attach the trailer's
behind you, or have a large blind brakes to your car's hydraulic
spot next to the trailer or the car, system, no matter how successful it
you should install mirrors intended may seem, will lower braking
for towing. effectiveness and create a potential
hazard.
CONTINUED
Driving
Towing a Trailer
Before Starting Out

GROUND BACK-UP LIGHT LEFT TURN SIGNAL As you are preparing to tow your
(BLACK) (GREEN/BLACK) (GREEN/BLUE)
trailer, do the following:
Measure the trailer's tongue load.

You can do this with a bathroom
scale.
Verify that the hitch and safety
chain are securely fastened.
Check the condition and air
RIGHT TURN SIGNAL BRAKE LIGHT TAILLIGHT pressure of all tires on the trailer
(GREEN/YELLOW) (GREEN/WHITE) (RED/BLACK) and your car. Low tire pressure
can seriously affect the handling.
Your car has a trailer lighting Since the lighting and wiring can be Also check the spare tire.
connector in the trunk. To use the different for various brands of With everything loaded and the
connector, remove the left cover by trailers, have a technician who is trailer connected, check that the
unscrewing the knob. Refer to the familiar with your trailer modify its rear of the car is not sagging. If so,
drawing above for the wiring color lighting plug. A converter may be redistribute the load in the car.
code and purpose of each connector required between the car and trailer Check that all lights on the car and
pin. for the lights to work correctly. trailer are working properly.
Driving
Towing a Trailer
Towing Safety The car/trailer combination is more This extra load is magnified when
Your car will not stop as quickly with affected by crosswinds and buffeting. you are driving in hilly terrain.
a trailer in tow. Leave extra distance When being passed by a large Watch the temperature gauge
between your car and other vehicles. vehicle, keep a constant speed and closely when climbing hills. If it gets
Avoid braking or turning suddenly. steer straight ahead. If there is too near the hot area, turn off the air
This could cause the trailer to much wind buffeting, slow down to conditioning (if it is on). If this does
jackknife or possibly turn over. get out of the other vehicle's air not reduce the heat, it may be
turbulence. necessary to pull to the side of the
Keep in mind that your total vehicle road and wait for the engine to cool.
is now much longer. Leave more Towing a trailer puts an extra load If the automatic transmission shifts
room when making turns. The trailer on your car. You should have your frequently between 3rd and 4th
tracks a smaller arc than the car and car serviced according to the gears, put it in D3. This will help
can hit or run over something that "Maintenance schedule under severe prevent the transmission from
the car misses. When passing driving conditions" on page 143 . overheating. Help keep the brakes
another vehicle, make sure the from overheating by shifting to a
trailer is clear before changing lanes. lower gear when going downhill.
CONTINUED
Driving
Towing a Trailer
If you have to stop while going uphill, Backing up with a trailer is difficult
do not hold the car in place by and takes practice. Drive slowly,
pressing on the accelerator. This can make small movements with the
cause the automatic transmission to steering wheel, and have someone
overheat. Use the parking brake or stand outside to guide you. Grip the
footbrake. steering wheel on the bottom (rather
than the usual position near the top).
When parking your car and trailer, Move your hand to the left to get the
especially on a hill, be sure to follow trailer to move to the left, and right
all the normal precautions. Turn to move the trailer right.
your front wheels into the curb, set
the parking brake firmly, and put the
transmission in 1st or Reverse
(manual) or Park (automatic). In
addition, place wheel chocks at each
of the trailer's tires.
Driving
Maintenance
This section explains why it is Maintenance Safety....................... 138 Power Steering............................... 167
important to keep your car well Maintenance Schedule.................. 140 Air Cleaner..................................... 168
maintained and to follow basic Maintenance Record..................... 144 Spark Plugs..................................... 171
maintenance safety precautions. Periodic Checks............................. 146 Replacement............................... 171
Fluid Locations............................... 147 Specification............................... 172
This section also includes Engine Oil....................................... 149 Battery............................................ 175
Maintenance Schedules for normal Checking Engine Oil................. 149 Windshield Wipers........................ 178
driving and severe driving conditions, Adding........................................ 149 Air Conditioning............................. 180
a Maintenance Record, and Recommended Oil..................... 151 Drive Belts...................................... 181
instructions for simple maintenance Additives..................................... 152 Tires................................................ 181
tasks you may want to take care of Oil and Filter Changes.............. 152 Inflation..................................... 182
yourself. Cooling System.............................. 155 Inspection................................... 183
Checking the Engine Coolant Maintenance............................... 183
If you have the skills and tools Level....................................... 155 Tire Rotation.............................. 184
required to perform more complex Adding Engine Coolant............. 156 Replacing Tires and Wheels .... 184
maintenance tasks on your Honda, Replacing Engine Coolant........ 158 Wheels and Tires....................... 185
you may want to purchase the Windshield Washers..................... 162 Winter Driving........................... 185
Service Manual. See page 231 for Transmission Oil............................ 163 Snow Tires.............................. 186
information on how to obtain a copy, Automatic Tire Chains............................. 186
or see your Honda dealer. Transmission.......................... 163 Lights.............................................. 187
5-speed Manual Replacing Bulbs......................... 187
Transmission.......................... 165 Storing Your Car............................ 197
Brake and Clutch Fluid................. 165
Brake System............................. 166
Anti-lock Brake System............ 166
Clutch System............................ 167
Maintenance
Maintenance Safety
Regularly maintaining your car is the This section includes instructions for Some of the most important safety
best way to protect your investment. simple maintenance tasks, such as precautions are given in the next
Proper maintenance is essential to checking and adding oil. Any service page. However, we cannot warn you
your safety and the safety of your items not detailed in this section of every conceivable hazard that can
passengers. It will also reward you should be performed by a Honda arise in performing maintenance.
with more economical, trouble-free technician or other qualified Only you can decide whether or not
driving and help reduce air pollution. mechanic. you should perform a given task.
Improperly maintaining this car Failure to properly follow

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

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

not run the engine unless
instructed to do so.
Maintenance
Maintenance Schedule
The Maintenance Schedule specifies The services and time or distance Which Schedule to Follow:
how often you should have your car intervals shown in the maintenance Service your car according to the
serviced and what things need schedule assume you will use your time and mileage periods on one of
attention. It is essential that you have car as normal transportation. You the Maintenance Schedules on pages
your car serviced as scheduled to should: 142 and 143. Select the schedule for
retain its high level of safety, "Severe Conditions" if most of your
dependability, and emission control Avoid exceeding your car's load driving is done under one or more of
performance. limit. This puts excess stress on the conditions listed on that page.
the engine, brakes, and many Otherwise, follow the schedule for
other parts of your car. The load "Normal Conditions."
limit is shown on the label on the
driver's doorjamb.
Operate your car on reasonable

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

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

the proper octane (see page 106).
Maintenance
Maintenance Schedule
Your authorized Honda dealer We recommend the use of Genuine According to state and federal
knows your car best and can provide Honda parts and fluids whenever you regulations, failure to perform
competent, efficient service. have maintenance done. These are maintenance on the items marked
However, service at a dealer is not manufactured to the same high- with an asterisk (*) will not void your
mandatory to keep your warranties quality standards as the original emissions warranties. However,
in effect. Maintenance may be done components, so you can be confident Honda recommends that all
by any qualified service facility or of their perfomance and durability. maintenance services be performed
person who is skilled in this type of at the recommended time or mileage
automotive service. Keep all the U.S. Cars: period to ensure long-term reliability.
receipts as proof of completion, and Maintenance, replacement or
have the person who does the work repair of emission control devices
fill out the Maintenance Record. and systems may be done by any
Check your warranty booklet for automotive repair establishment
more information. or individual using parts that are
"certified" to EPA standards.
Maintenance
Maintenance Schedule (Normal Conditions)
Follow the Normal Maintenance
Schedule if the severe driving
conditions specified in the
Severe Conditions Maintenance
Schedule on the next page do
not apply.
For Canadian Owners:

This Maintenance Schedule
outlines the minimum required
maintenance that you should
perform to ensure the trouble-
free operation of your vehicle.
Due to regional and climatic
differences, some additional
servicing may be required.
Please consult your warranty
handbook for a more detailed
description.
* 1 : For 4 cylinder models only.

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

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

OCCASIONALLY drive under a
"severe" condition, you should
follow the Normal Conditions
Maintenance Schedule on the
previous page.
Maintenance
Required Maintenance Record
Have your servicing dealer record all Required Maintenance below. Keep receipts for all work done on your car.
Maintenance
Non-Scheduled Maintenance Record
Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non-scheduled maintenance on this page (see page 143).
Maintenance
Periodic Checks
You should check the following Engine oil level — Check every Tires — Check the tire pressure
items at the specified intervals. If time you fill the fuel tank. See monthly. Examine the tread for
you are unsure of how to perform page 110. wear and foreign objects. See page
any check, turn to the page given. 181.
Engine coolant level — Check the
radiator reserve tank every time Battery — Check its condition and
you fill the fuel tank. See page 112 . the terminals for corrosion
monthly. See page 176 .
Windshield washer fluid — Check
the level in the reservoir monthly. Air conditioning — Check its
If weather conditions cause you to operation weekly. See page 180 .
use the washers frequently, check
the reservoir each time you stop Lights — Check the operation of
for fuel. See page 162 . the headlights, parking lights,
taillights, high-mount brake light,
Automatic transmission — Check turn signals, brake lights, and
the fluid level monthly. See page license plate lights monthly. See
163. page 187.
Brakes, clutch and power steering

— Check the fluid level monthly.
See page 166 .
Maintenance
Fluid Locations
4 Cylinder Models (5-M/T only)

CLUTCH FLUID
(Gray cap)
BRAKE FLUID
(Gray cap)
ENGINE OIL ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK

FILL CAP (Orange loop)
COOLANT ANTI-LOCK BRAKE

RESERVOIR RESERVOIR
(Gray cap)
AUTOMATIC POWER STEERING

TRANSMISSION FLUID (Red cap)
FLUID DIPSTICK
(Yellow loop)
WASHER FLUID
(Blue cap)
Maintenance
Fluid Locations
6 Cylinder Models
ENGINE OIL BRAKE FLUID

FILL CAP (Gray cap)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE
RESERVOIR
COOLANT
RESERVOIR
POWER STEERING
FLUID (Red cap)
AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION
FLUID DIPSTICK
(Yellow loop)
ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK

(Orange loop)
Maintenance
Engine Oil
Checking Engine Oil
UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK
4 cylinder models DIPSTICK 6 cylinder models DIPSTICK
Check the engine oil a couple of 3. Pull it out again and look at the oil
minutes after shutting off the engine. level at the end of the dipstick. If it
This will allow the oil to drain down is between the upper and lower
to the bottom of the engine. Make marks, the level is correct. Add oil
sure the car is parked on level if the level is at or below the lower
ground. mark.
1. Pull out the dipstick (orange loop)

and wipe it with a cloth or paper
towel.
2. Insert it all the way back in its tube. CONTINUED
Maintenance
Engine Oil
Adding Recommended Oil

Oil is a major contributor to your
ENGINE OIL FILL CAP ENGINE OIL FILL CAP engine's performance and longevity.
Always use a premium-grade deter-
gent oil.
4 cylinder models 6 cylinder models
To add oil, unscrew and remove the

engine oil fill cap on top of the valve
cover. Pour in the oil, and replace the
engine oil fill cap. Tighten it securely.
Wait a few minutes and recheck the
oil level. Do not fill above the upper
mark; you could damage the engine.
Maintenance
Engine Oil
You can determine an oil's SAE The API Service label also tells you The oil container may also display
viscosity and Service Classification the service classification of the oil. the API Certification mark shown
from the API Service label on the oil Always use an oil that says "API below. Make sure it says "For
container. Service SG or SH." This service Gasoline Engines."
rating may also include other
A fuel-efficient oil is recommended designations, such as CD. These
for your Honda. This is shown on the additional classifications are not a
API Service label by the words problem, as long as the label also
"Energy Conserving I I . " This oil is carries the SG or SH classification.
formulated to help your engine use An oil that is only classified SF is not
less fuel. recommended.
API CERTIFICATION MARK
API SERVICE LABEL
** : SG or SH
CONTINUED
Maintenance
Engine Oil
The SAE numbers tell you the oil's Additives Oil and Filter Changes
viscosity or weight. Select the oil for Your Honda does not need any oil Always change the oil and filter
your car according to this chart. additives. Purchasing additives for according to the time and distance
the engine or transmission will not recommendations in the mainte-
increase your car's performance or nance schedule. The oil and filter
longevity. It only increases the cost collect contaminants that can dam-
of operating your car. age your engine if they are not
removed regularly.
Changing the oil and filter requires

special tools and access from
underneath the car. The car should
Ambient Temperature be raised on a service station-type
hydraulic lift for this service. Unless
you have the knowledge and proper
equipment, you should have this
An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 is maintenance done by a skilled
preferred for improved fuel economy mechanic.
and year-round protection in your
Honda. You may use a 10W-30 oil if 1. Run the engine until it reaches
the temperature in your area never normal operating temperature,
goes below 20°F( — 7°C). then shut it off.
Maintenance
Engine Oil
DRAIN BOLT WASHER WASHER DRAIN BOLT OIL FILTER
4 cylinder models 6 cylinder models 4 cylinder models
2. Open the hood and remove the 3. Remove the oil filter and let the
engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil remaining oil drain. A special
drain bolt from the bottom of the wrench (available from your
engine. Drain the oil into an Honda dealer) is required to
appropriate container. remove the filter.
4. Install a new oil filter according to
instructions that come with it.
5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt
with the flat side toward the engine,
then reinstall the drain bolt.
Tighten it to:
44 N.m (4.4 kg-m , 32 Ib-ft)
Maintenance
Engine Oil
OIL FILTER 7. Replace the engine oil fill cap. NOTICE

Start the engine. The oil pressure
indicator light should go out within If you change your own oil, please
five seconds. If it does not, turn off dispose of the used oil properly. Put it
the engine and reinspect your in a sealed container and take it to a
work. recycling center. Do not discard it in a
trash bin or dump it on the ground.
8. Let the engine run for several
minutes and check the drain bolt The oil and filter should be changed
and oil filter for leaks. every 6 months or 12,000 km (7,500
miles), whichever comes first. Under
6 cylinder models 9. Turn off the engine, let it sit for severe driving conditions, they
several minutes, then check the oil should be changed every 3 months
6. Refill the engine with the recom- level. If necessary, add oil to bring or 6,000 km (3,750 miles). See page
mended oil. the level to the upper mark on the 143 for a description of severe
Engine oil change capacity dipstick. driving conditions.
(including filter):
(US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX)
3.8 (4.0 US qt, 3.3 Imp qt)
(US: EX, Canada: EX-R)
4.3 (4.5 US qt, 3.8 Imp qt)
(US: LX V-6, EX V-6, Canada: EX
V-6. EX-R V-6)
4.4 (4.6 US qt,3.9 Imp qt)
Maintenance
Cooling System
Checking the Engine Coolant Always use Genuine Honda Anti-

Level freeze/Coolant. The cooling system
contains many aluminum compo-
RESERVE TANK RESERVE TANK nents which can corrode if an
improper antifreeze is used. Some
antifreeze, even though labeled as
safe for aluminum parts, may not
provide adequate protection.
MAX MAX
4 cylinder models MIN 6 cylinder models MIN
Check the level of the engine coolant

by looking at the radiator reserve
tank next to the battery. If the level
is at or below the MIN line, add
coolant to bring it up to the MAX line.
Inspect the cooling system for leaks.
This coolant should always be a
mixture of 50% antifreeze and 50%
water. Never add straight antifreeze
or plain water.
CONTINUED
Maintenance
Cooling System
Adding Engine Coolant

If the reserve tank is completely
empty, you should also check the
coolant level in the radiator.
Removing the radiator cap

while the engine is hot can
cause the coolant to spray out,
seriously scalding you.
4 cylinder models RADIATOR CAP 6 cylinder models RADIATOR CAP
Always let the engine and
radiator cool down before 2. Turn the radiator cap counter- 3. Remove the radiator cap by
removing the radiator cap. clockwise, without pressing down pushing down and turning
on it, until it stops. This relieves counterclockwise.
any pressure remaining in the
1. Make sure the engine and radiator cooling system.
are cool.
Maintenance
Cooling System
Do not add any rust inhibitors or

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

The cooling system should be
completely drained and refilled with
new coolant according to the time
and distance recommendations in
4 cylinder models RESERVE TANK 6 cylinder models RESERVE TANK the maintenance schedule. Only use
recommended antifreeze.
4. The coolant level should be up to 6. Pour coolant into the reserve tank.
the base of the filler neck. Add Fill it to halfway between the MAX Draining the coolant requires access
coolant if it is low. and M I N marks. Put the cap back to the underside of the car. Unless
on the reserve tank. you have the tools and knowledge,
5. Put the radiator cap back on. you should have this maintenance
Tighten it fully. done by a skilled mechanic.
Maintenance
Cooling System
DRAIN
PLUG
DRAIN
BOLT
1. Start the engine. Turn the heater 4 cylinder models

temperature control dial to 3. Loosen the drain plug on the
maximum heat and turn off the bottom of the radiator. The
engine. Open the hood. Make sure coolant will drain through the
the engine and radiator are cool to splash guard. Remove the drain
the touch. bolt from the engine block.
2. Remove the radiator cap.
Maintenance
Cooling System
DRAIN PLUG RESERVE TANK RESERVE TANK CAP RESERVE TANK RESERVE TANK CAP
6 cylinder models DRAIN BOLTS 4 cylinder models HOLDER 6 cylinder models HOLDER
6 cylinder models 4. Remove the reserve tank from its

3. Loosen the drain plug on the holder by pulling it straight up.
bottom of the radiator. The Drain the coolant, then put the
coolant will drain through the tank back in its holder.
splash guard. Remove the drain
bolts from the engine block. 5. When the coolant stops draining,
tighten the drain plug in the
bottom of the radiator. Apply non-
hardening sealant to the drain bolt
threads and reinstall the bolts in
the engine block. Tighten it
securely.
CONTINUED
Maintenance
Cooling System
FILLER NECK FILLER NECK
4 cylinder models Fill up to here 6 cylinder models Fill up to here 4 cylinder models BLEEDER BOLT
6. Mix the recommended antifreeze 7. Pour coolant into the radiator up 8. Loosen the bleeder bolt on top of
with an equal amount of purified to the base of the filler neck. the engine. Tighten it again when
or distilled water in a clean coolant comes out in a steady
container. The cooling system stream with no bubbles.
capacity is:
With manual transmission: 9. Refill the radiator to the base of
5.4 (1.43 US g a l , 1.19 Imp gal) the filler neck. Put the cap on the
With automatic transmission: radiator, only tighten it to the first
5.3 (1.40 US g a l , 1.17 Imp gal) stop. Start the engine and let it run
6 cylinder models until it warms up (the radiator
6.8 (1.80 US g a l , 1.50 Imp gal) cooling fan comes on at least
twice).
Maintenance
Cooling System
BLEEDER BOLT RESERVE TANK RESERVE TANK
10. Turn off the engine. Check the

level in the radiator, add coolant if
needed. Install the radiator cap,
tighten it fully.
11. Fill the reserve tank to the MAX

mark. Install the reserve tank cap.
Maintenance
Windshield Washers
Windshield Washers LEVEL GAUGE

Check the level in the windshield
washer reservoir at least monthly
during normal usage. In bad weather,
when you use the washers often,
check the level every time you stop
for fuel.
The windshield washer reservoir is

located behind the headlight.
4 cylinder models
Check the reservoir's fluid level by 4 cylinder models 6 cylinder models FLOAT
removing the cap and looking at the
level gauge attached to the cap. NOTICE
6 cylinder models
Check the reservoir's fluid level by Do not use engine antifreeze or a
removing the cap and looking at the vinegar/water solution in the
float. It should be up to the top of the windshield washer reservoir.
neck. If the float is at the bottom of
the neck, the reservoir is nearly Antif reeze can damage your car's paint,
empty. while a vinegar/water solution can
damage the windshield washer pump.
Fill the reservoir with a good-quality
windshield washer fluid. This Use only commercially-available
increases the cleaning capability and windshield washer fluid.
prevents freezing in cold weather.
Maintenance
Transmission Oil
Automatic Transmission 5. If the level is below the lower

4 cylinder models mark, add fluid into the tube to
bring it to the upper mark. Use
Honda Premium Formula Auto-
matic Transmission Fluid or an
equivalent DEXRON® II Auto-
matic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
only.
UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK 6. Insert the dipstick all the way back
in the transmission.
The transmission should be drained

DIPSTICK and refilled with new fluid every 24
months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles),
Check the fluid level with the engine 3. Insert the dipstick all the way into whichever comes first. Shorten this
at normal operating temperature. the transmission. to every 12 months or 24,000 km
(15,000 miles) under severe driving
1. Park the car on level ground. Shut 4. Remove the dipstick and check conditions (see page 143 ).
off the engine. the fluid level. It should be
between the upper and lower
2. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) marks.
from the transmission and wipe it
with a clean cloth.
Maintenance
Transmission Oil
Automatic Transmission 5. If the level is below the lower

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

UPPER MARK in the transmission.
LOWER MARK The transmission should be drained

DIPSTICK and refilled with new fluid every 24
months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles),
Check the fluid level with the engine 3. Insert the dipstick all the way into whichever comes first. Shorten this
at normal operating temperature. the transmission. to every 12 months or 24,000 km
(15,000 miles) under severe driving
1. Park the car on level ground. Shut 4. Remove the dipstick and check conditions (see page 143).
off the engine. the fluid level. It should be
between the upper and lower
2. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) marks.
from the transmission and wipe it
with a clean cloth.
Maintenance
Transmission Oil, Brake and Clutch Fluid
5-speed Manual Transmission Only use an API Service SF or SG Brake and Clutch Fluid
grade motor oil with a viscosity of Check the fluid level in the reser-
FILLER BOLT SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. voirs monthly. There are up to three
reservoirs, depending on model.
The transmission should be drained They are:
and refilled with new oil every 24
months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), Brake fluid reservoir
whichever comes first. Shorten the Clutch fluid reservoir (manual
service interval to every 12 months transmission only)
Correct
level
or 24,000 km (15,000 miles) under ABS reservoir (cars with ABS)
severe driving conditions (see page
143). The brake fluid in the brake and
Anti-lock brake systems should be
replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km
Check the oil level a couple of mi- (30,000 miles), whichever comes
nutes after shutting off the engine. first.
Make sure the car is on level ground.
Remove the transmission filler bolt.
The oil level should be up to the
edge of the bolt hole. Feel inside the
bolt hole with your finger. If you do
not feel any oil, slowly add oil until it
starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall
the filler bolt and tighten it securely.
Maintenance
Brake and Clutch Fluid
Brake System Anti-lock Brake System

MAX MAX
MAX
MIN
4 cylinder models MIN 6 cylinder models MIN 4 cylinder models
The fluid should be between the If you add brake fluid to bring it up The fluid should be between the
MIN and MAX marks on the side of to the MAX mark, use Genuine M I N and MAX marks on the side of
the reservoir. If the level is at or Honda Brake Fluid or an equivalent the reservoir. If it is at or below the
below the MIN mark, it is an from a sealed container that is M I N mark, it indicates a possible
indication that your brake system marked DOT3 or DOT4 only. Brake problem in the ABS. Have the dealer
needs attention. Have the brake fluid marked DOT5 is not compatible inspect the system as soon as
system inspected for leaks or worn with your car's braking system. possible.
brake pads.
Maintenance
Brake and Clutch Fluid, Power Steering
Clutch System Power Steering

UPPER LEVEL
MAX
MIN
MAX
6 cylinder models MIN 4 cylinder models LOWER LEVEL
The fluid should be between the You should check the fluid level in
MIN and MAX marks on the side of the power steering reservoir
the reservoir. If it is not, add brake monthly. Check the level when the
fluid to bring it up to that level. Use engine is cold. Look at the side of
the same DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid the reservoir. The fluid should be
from a sealed container specified for between the UPPER LEVEL and
the brake system. LOWER LEVEL. If it is below the
LOWER LEVEL, add power steering
Low fluid level can indicate a leak in fluid to the UPPER LEVEL.
the clutch system. Have this system
inspected as soon as possible.
Maintenance
Power Steering, Air Cleaner
NOTICE Air Cleaner

The air cleaner element should be
UPPER LEVEL Using automatic transmission fluid or replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km
another brand of power steering fluid (30,000 miles), whichever comes
will damage the system. Use only first. Under severe driving condi-
GENUINE HONDA Power Steering tions, it should also be cleaned every
Fluid-V. 12 months or 24,000 km (15,000
miles), whichever comes first.
A low power steering fluid level can
indicate a leak in the system. Check Cleaning (Severe Conditions)
the fluid level frequently and have Clean the air cleaner element by
the system inspected as soon as blowing compressed air through it in
6 cylinder models LOWER LEVEL possible. the opposite direction to normal air
flow. If you do not have access to
NOTICE compressed air (such as a gas
station), ask your Honda dealer to do
Turning the steering wheel to full left this service.
or right lock and holding it there can
damage the power steering pump. Follow the replacement procedure
for removal and reinstallation.
Maintenance
Air Cleaner (4 Cylinder Models)
DUCT BOLTS
AIR CLEANER ELEMENT
The air cleaner element is inside the 3. Loosen the four bolts and remove 5. Place the new air cleaner element
box on the passenger's side of the the air cleaner housing cover. in the air cleaner housing.
engine compartment.
To replace it: 4. Remove the old air cleaner 6. Reinstall the air cleaner housing
element. cover and the duct, tighten the
1. Remove the duct by pulling it Clean the inside of the air cleaner four bolts.
straight out. housing with a damp rag.
7. Reinstall the battery set plate and
2. Loosen the screws from the battery tighten the screws.
set plate and push it away from the
air cleaner.
Maintenance
Air Cleaner (6 Cylinder Models)
The air cleaner element is inside the BOLTS

box on the driver's side of the engine
compartment.
To replace it:
1. Loosen the screws from the battery

set plate and push it away from the
air cleaner.
AIR CLEANER ELEMENT
2. Loosen the four bolts and remove 4. Place the new air cleaner element
the air cleaner housing cover. in the air cleaner housing.
3. Remove the old air cleaner 5. Reinstall the air cleaner housing
element. cover, tighten the four bolts.
Clean the inside of the air cleaner
housing with a damp rag. 6. Reinstall the battery set plate and
tighten the screws.
Maintenance
Spark Plugs (4 Cylinder Models)
The original spark plugs in your car Replacement

need to be replaced every 2 years or
48,000 km (30,000 miles), whichever SPARK PLUG CAP
comes first.
1. Clean up any dirt and oil around 4. Put the new spark plug into the
the spark plug caps. socket, then thread it into the hole.
Screw it in by hand so you do not
2. Remove the spark plug cap by crossthread it.
pulling it straight out.
3. Remove the spark plug, using a 16

mm (5/8 inch) spark plug socket.
CONTINUED
Maintenance
NOTICE Specifications:
Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A NGK: ZFR5F-11

spark plug that is too loose can Nippondenso: KJ16CR-L11
overheat and damage the engine.
Overtightening can cause damage to Spark Plug Gap:
the threads in the cylinder head. 1.1 mm (0.04 in)
6. Install the spark plug cap.
7. Repeat this procedure for the

other three spark plugs.
5. Torque the spark plug. (If you do

not have a torque wrench, tighten
the spark plug 2/3 turn after it
contacts the cylinder head.)
Tightening torque:
18 N.m (1.8 kg-m, 13 Ib-ft)
Maintenance
The original spark plugs in your car Replacement

need to be replaced every 2 years or
48,000 km (30,000 miles), whichever SPARK PLUG CAP
comes first.
1. Clean up any dirt and oil around 4. Put the new spark plug into the
the spark plug caps. socket, then thread it into the hole.
Screw it in by hand so you do not
2. Remove the spark plug cap by crossthread it.
pulling it straight out.
3. Remove the spark plug, using a 16

mm (5/8 inch) spark plug socket.
CONTINUED
Maintenance
NOTICE Specifications:
Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A NGK: ZFR5F-11

spark plug that is too loose can Nippondenso: KJ16CR-L11
overheat and damage the engine.
Overtightening can cause damage to Spark Plug Gap:
the threads in the cylinder head. 1.1 m m (0.04 in)
6. Install the spark plug cap.
7. Repeat this procedure for the

other five spark plugs.
5. Torque the spark plug. (If you do

not have a torque wrench, tighten
the spark plug 2/3 turn after it
contacts the cylinder head.)
Tightening torque:
18 N.m (1.8 kg-m, 13 Ib-ft)
Maintenance
Battery
Check the condition of your car's Emergency Procedures

battery monthly. You should check
for proper electrolyte level and The battery contains sulfuric Eyes — Flush with water from a cup
corrosion on the terminals. acid (electrolyte) which is highly or other container for at least fifteen
corrosive and poisonous. minutes. (Water under pressure can
damage the eye.) Immediately call a
Getting electrolyte in your eyes physician or 911.
or on your skin can cause
serious burns. Skin — Remove contaminated
clothing. Flush the skin with large
Wear protective clothing and quantities of water. Call a physician
eye protection when working immediately.
near the battery.
Swallowing — Drink water or milk.
Call your local Poison Control Center
or a physician immediately.
CONTINUED
Maintenance
Battery
TEST INDICATOR WINDOW TEST INDICATOR WINDOW
Check the battery condition by Check the battery terminals for If the terminals are severely cor-
looking at the test indicator window corrosion (a white or yellowish roded, clean them with baking soda
on the battery. powder). To remove it, cover the and water. Then use a wrench to
The label on the battery explains the terminals with a solution of baking loosen and remove the cables from
test indicator's colors. soda and water. It will bubble up and the terminals. Always disconnect the
turn brown. When this stops, wash it negative (—) cable first and recon-
off with plain water. Dry off the nect it last. Clean the battery termi-
battery with a cloth or paper towel. nals with a terminal cleaning tool or
Coat the terminals with grease to wire brush. Reconnect and tighten
help prevent future corrosion. the cables, then coat the terminals
with grease.
Maintenance
Battery
NOTICE
The battery gives off explosive Charging the battery with the cables
hydrogen gas during normal connected can seriously damage your
operation. car's electronic controls. Detach the
battery cables before connecting the
A spark or flame can cause the battery to a charger.
battery to explode with enough
force to kill or seriously hurt you.
Wear protective clothing and a

6 cylinder models face shield, or have a skilled
mechanic do the battery
If you need to connect the battery to maintenance.
a charger, disconnect both cables to
prevent damage to the car's electri-
cal system. On the U.S. EX, EX V-6 and Canadian
EX-R, EX-R V-6 models
If your car's battery is disconnected
or goes dead, the audio system will
disable itself. The next time you turn
on the radio you will see "Code" in
the frequency display. Use the
Preset buttons to enter the five-digit
code (see page 103 ).
Maintenance
Windshield Wipers
Check the condition of the wind- WIPER ARMS

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

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

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

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

the windshield.
REINFORCEMENT
3. Remove the blade from its holder 4. Examine the new wiper blades. If
by grasping the tabbed end of the they have no plastic or metal rein-
blade. Pull firmly until the tabs forcement along the back edge,
come out of the holder. remove the metal reinforcement
strips from the old wiper blade and
install them in the slots along the
edge of the new blade.
Maintenance
Air Conditioning
Optional for the U.S. DX and Canadian AIR CONDITIONING If the air conditioning does not get as
LX models CONDENSER cold as before, have your dealer
Your car's air conditioning is a sealed check the system. Recharge the
system. Any major maintenance, system with Refrigerant HFC-134a
such as recharging, should be done (R-134a). (See Specifications on page
by a qualified technician. There are a 234.)
couple of things you can do to make
sure the air conditioning works NOTICE
efficiently.
Whenever you have the air conditioning
Periodically check the engine's system serviced, make sure the service
radiator and air conditioning facility uses a refrigerant recycling
condenser for leaves, insects, and system. This system captures the
dirt stuck to the front surface. These Run the air conditioning at least once refrigerant for reuse. Releasing
block the air flow and reduce cooling a week during the cold weather refrigerant into the atmosphere can
efficiency. Use a light spray from a months. Run it for at least ten damage the environment.
hose or a soft brush to remove them. minutes while you are driving at a
steady speed with the engine at
NOTICE normal operating temperature. This
circulates the lubricating oil con-
The condenser and radiator fins bend tained in the refrigerant.
easily. Only use a low-pressure spray
or soft-bristle brush to clean them.
Maintenance
Drive Belts, Tires
Drive Belts If you see signs of wear or looseness,

have your dealer adjust or replace
POWER STEERING BELT POWER STEERING BELT the belts.
Tires
To safely operate your car, your tires
must be the proper type and size, in
good condition with adequate tread,
and correctly inflated. The following
pages give more detailed information
on how and when to check air
pressure, how to inspect your tires
4 cylinder models ALTERNATOR BELT 6 cylinder models ALTERNATOR BELT for damage, and what to do when
your tires need to be replaced.
Check the condition of the two drive Alternator belt:
belts. Examine the edges of each (On cars without A/C)
belt for cracks or fraying. 10.5—12.5 mm (0.41—0.49 in)
Check the tension of each belt by (On cars with A/C) Using tires that are excessively
pushing on it with your thumb 8.0 — 10.5 mm (0.31 — 0.41 in) worn or improperly inflated can
midway between the pulleys. (6 cylinder models) cause a crash in which you can
The belts should have the following 14.0—16.5 mm (0.55—0.65 in) be seriously hurt or killed.
"play" or deflection. Power steering belt:
13.0 — 16.0 mm (0.51 — 0.63 in) Follow all instructions in this
(6 cylinder models) owner's manual regarding tire
14.5 — 17.0 mm (0.57 — 0.67 in) inflation and maintenance.
Maintenance
Tires
Inflation before checking the tire pressure,

Keeping the tires properly inflated the tires can still be considered
provides the best combination of "cold" if you drive less than 1.6 km
handling, tread life and riding (1 mile).
comfort. Underinflated tires wear
unevenly, adversely affect handling If you check the pressure when the
and fuel economy, and are more tires are hot (the car has been driven
likely to fail from being overheated. several miles), you will see readings
Overinflated tires can make your car 28 to 41 kPa (0.3 to 0.4 kg/cm 2 , 4 to
ride more harshly, are more prone to 6 psi) higher than the cold reading.
damage from road hazards, and wear This is normal. Do not let air out to
unevenly. match the specified cold pressure.
The tire will be underinflated.
We recommend that you visually
check your tires every day and use a Recommended Tire Pressures for
gauge to measure the air pressure at Normal Driving
least once a month. If you think a tire The following chart shows the
might be low, check it immediately. recommended cold tire pressures for
Remember to check the spare tire at most normal driving conditions and
the same time you check all the speeds. Tire pressures for high
other tires. speed driving are shown on page The compact spare tire pressure is:
238. 420 kPa (4.2 kg/cm 2 , 60 psi)
Check the pressure in the tires when
they are cold. This means the car The pressures are also given on the
has been parked for at least three tire information label on the driver's
hours. If you have to drive the car doorjamb.
Maintenance
Tires
You should get your own tire You should look for: Your car's tires have wear indicators
pressure gauge and use it whenever molded into the tread. When the
you check your tire pressures. This Bumps or bulges in the tread or tread wears down to that point, you
will make it easier for you to tell if a side of the tire. Replace the tire if will see a 12.7 mm (1/2 inch) wide
pressure loss is due to a tire problem you find either of these conditions. band running across the tread. This
and not due to a variation between shows there is less than 1.6 mm
gauges. Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side (1/16 inch) of tread left on the tire.
of the tire. Replace the tire if you A tire that is this worn gives very
Tubeless tires have some ability to can see fabric or tread. little traction on wet roads. You
self-seal if they are punctured. should replace the tire if you can see
However, because leakage is often Excessive tread wear. the tread wear indicator in three or
very slow, you should look closely more places around the tire.
for punctures if a tire starts losing INDICATOR
pressure. LOCATION Maintenance
MARKS In addition to proper inflation,
Inspection correct wheel alignment helps to
Every time you check inflation, you decrease tire wear. If you find a tire
should also examine the tires for is worn unevenly, have your dealer
damage, foreign objects, and wear. check the wheel alignment.
TREAD WEAR
INDICATORS
CONTINUED
Maintenance
Tires
The tires were properly balanced by Tire Rotation handling, ride comfort, and long life.
the factory. They may need to be You should replace them with radial
Front Front
rebalanced at some time before they tires of the same size, load range,
are worn out. Have your dealer speed rating, and maximum cold tire
check the tires if you feel a consis- pressure rating (as shown on the
tent vibration while driving. A tire tire's sidewall). Mixing radial and
should always be rebalanced if it is bias-ply tires on your car can reduce
removed from the wheel for repair. its braking ability, traction, and
steering accuracy.
Make sure the installer balances the
wheels when you have new tires
installed. This increases riding
(For Non-directional (For Directional
comfort and tire life. Your car's Tires and Wheels) Tires and Wheels) Installing improper tires on your
original tires were dynamic or "spin" car can affect handling and
balanced at the factory. For best To help increase tire life and stability. This can cause a crash
results, have the installer perform a distribute wear more evenly, you in which you can be seriously
dynamic balance. should have the tires rotated every hurt or killed.
12,000 km (7,500 miles). Move the
NOTICE tires to the positions shown in the Always use the size and type of
chart each time they are rotated. tires recommended in this
(US: EX, EX V-6, Canada: EX-R, owner's manual.
EX-R V-6) Replacing Tires and Wheels
Improper wheel weights can damage The tires that came with your car
your car's aluminum wheels. Use only were selected to match the perform-
genuine Honda wheel weights for ance capabilities of the car while
balancing. providing the best combination of
Maintenance
Tires
It is best to replace all four tires at Wheels and Tires Winter Driving
the same time. If that is not possible Wheel: Tires that are marked "M + S" or
or necessary, then replace the two (US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) "All Season" on the sidewall have an
front tires or the two rear tires as a 14x5J all-weather tread design. They
pair. Replacing just one tire can (US: EX, Canada: EX-R) should be suitable for most winter
seriously affect your car's handling. 15 x 5 1/2 JJ driving conditions. Tires without
(US: LX V-6, EX V-6, Canada: EX V-6, these markings are designed for
The ABS works by comparing the EX-R V-6) optimum traction in dry conditions.
speed of the wheels. When replacing 15x6JJ They may not provide adequate
tires, use the same size originally Tire: performance in winter driving.
supplied with the car. Tire size and (US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) For the best performance in snowy
construction can affect wheel speed P185/70R1487S or icy conditions, you should install
and may cause the system to work in- (US: EX, Canada: EX-R) snow tires or tire chains. They may
consistently. 195/60R15 88H be required by local laws under
(US: LX V-6, EX V-6, Canada: EX V-6, certain conditions.
If you ever need to replace a wheel, EX-R V-6)
make sure the wheel's specifications 205/60R15 91V
match those of the original wheel
that came on your car. Replacement See Tire Information on page 237 for
wheels are available at your Honda additional information about tire and
dealer. wheel size designations. See page
238 for information about DOT Tire
Quality Grading.
CONTINUED
Maintenance
Tires
Snow Tires Tire Chains When installing chains, follow the

If you mount snow tires on your Mount snow chains on your car manufacturer's instructions and
Honda, make sure they are radial when warranted by driving condi- mount them as tightly as you can.
tires of the same size and load range tions or required by local laws. Make Drive slowly with chains installed. If
as the original tires. Mount snow sure the chains are the correct size you hear the chains contacting the
tires on all four wheels to balance for your tires. Install them only on body or chassis, stop and tighten
your car's handling in all weather the front tires. If metal chains are them. If they still make contact, slow
conditions. Keep in mind the traction used, they must be SAE class "S". down until it stops. Remove the
provided by snow tires on dry roads Cable type traction devices can also chains as soon as you begin driving
may not be as high as your car's be used. on cleared roads.
original equipment tires. You should
drive cautiously even when the roads NOTICE
are clear. Check with the tire dealer
for maximum speed recommenda- Chains of the wrong size or that are
tions. improperly installed can damage your
car's brake lines, suspension, body, and
wheels. Stop driving if you hear the
chains hitting any part of the car.
Maintenance
Lights
Check the operation of your car's If you find any bulbs are burned out, Replacing a Headlight Bulb
exterior lights at least once a month. replace them as soon as possible. Your car has two bulbs on each side,
A burned out bulb can create an Refer to the chart on page 235 to four in total. Make sure you are
unsafe condition by reducing your determine what type of replacement replacing the bulb that is burned out.
car's visibility and the ability to bulb is needed. Your car uses halogen headlight
signal your intentions to other bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle
drivers. it by its plastic case and protect the
Check the following: glass from contact with your skin or
hard objects. If you touch the glass,
Headlights (low and high beam) clean it with denatured alcohol and a
Parking lights clean cloth.
Taillights
Brake lights
High-mount brake light
Turn signals
Back-up lights
Hazard light function
License plate light
Side marker lights
Daytime running lights
(Canadian cars)
CONTINUED
Maintenance
Lights
NOTICE BULB 4. Insert the new bulb into the hole

and turn it one-quarter turn clock-
Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot wise.
when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch
on the glass can cause the bulb to 5. Push the electrical connector back
overheat and shatter. onto the bulb. Make sure it is on
all the way.
6. Turn on the headlights to test the

new bulb.
TAB 7. (Passenger's side)

Reinstall the radiator reserve tank.
1. Open the hood.
If you need to change a bulb on
the passenger's side, remove the
radiator reserve tank.
2. Remove the electrical connector

from the bulb by squeezing the
connector to unlock the tab while
you push down on the connector.
3. Remove the bulb by turning it one-

quarter turn counterclockwise.
Maintenance
Lights
Replacing a Front Turn Signal 6. Push the bulb holder into the turn
Light Bulb signal assembly and turn it
clockwise until it locks.
TURN SIGNAL ASSEMBLY
7. Test the lights to make sure the
new bulb is working.
8. Put the turn signal assembly into

the bumper. Make sure the tabs
on the turn signal assembly fit into
the bumper slots. Tighten the
BULB
mounting screw.
BULB HOLDER
1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 3. Remove the bulb holder from the

loosen the turn signal assembly's turn signal assembly by turning it
mounting screw. counterclockwise.
2. Remove the turn signal assembly 4. Remove the burned out bulb from
from the bumper. the socket by pulling it straight out
of its socket.
5. Install the new bulb in the socket.
Maintenance
Lights
Replacing Front Side Marker and 5. Put the bulb holder back into its
Parking Light Bulbs hole in the lens, and turn it
clockwise until it locks.
SCREW
6. Turn on the parking lights and
check that the new bulb is
working.
7. Put the side marker assembly

back into the body. Push on the
front edge until it snaps into place.
Install the mounting screw and
tighten it securely.
1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to 3. Turn the bulb holder one-quarter

remove the screw from the top of turn counterclockwise to remove it
the fender. from the lens.
2. Move the side marker light 4. Pull the bulb straight out of its
assembly forward until it pops out socket.
of the body. Push the new bulb straight into
the socket until it bottoms.
Maintenance
Lights
Replacing Rear Bulbs 5. Install the new bulb in the socket.
KNOB COVER 6. Reinstall the socket into the light

assembly.
7. Test the lights to make sure the

new bulb is working.
8. Reinstall the taillight assembly

cover.
1. Open the trunk and remove the 3. Remove the socket by turning it
taillight cover by turning the knob. one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
2. Determine which of the three 4. Remove the bulb by turning it one-

bulbs is burned out: tail/stoplight, quarter turn counterclockwise and
back-up light or turn signal. pulling it out of the socket.
* Tail/stoplight
Remove the burned out bulb from
the socket by pulling it straight out
of its socket.
Maintenance
Lights
Replacing a Rear Side Marker 5. Insert the socket in the assembly.

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

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

loosen the side marker assembly assembly by turning it counter-
mounting screw. clockwise.
2. Remove the assembly from the 4. Remove the bulb from the socket
fender by pulling out the back by pulling it straight out.
edge and sliding the assembly Install the new bulb. Turn on the
backwards. headlights to test the bulb.
Maintenance
Lights
Replacing a High-mount Brake 3. Install the new bulb and reinstall Replacing a Rear License Bulb
Light Bulb the socket. Make sure the new
bulb is working.
BULB
1. Remove the two screws and

1. Open the trunk and remove the remove the license light assembly.
socket from the light assembly by
turning it one-quarter turn counter- 2. Remove the lens from the rubber
clockwise. seal and the metal cover.
2. Remove the burned-out bulb by 3. Pull the bulb straight out of its
pulling it straight out of the socket. socket. Push the new bulb in until
it bottoms in the socket.
CONTINUED
Maintenance
Lights
4. Turn on the parking lights and Replacing Bulbs in the Interior CEILING LIGHT
check that the new bulb is Lights
working. The ceiling light, door light and
vanity mirror light come apart the
5. Reinstall the cover and the lens. same way. They do not all use the
Put the license light assembly in same bulb.
place. Reinstall the two screws and
tighten them securely. 1. Remove the lens by carefully
prying on the edge of the lens with
a fingernail file or a small flat-tip
screwdriver. Do not pry on the
edge of the housing around the
lens.
2. Remove the bulb by pulling it
Door light: straight out of its metal tabs.
Not available on the U.S. DX model
and Canadian LX model 3. Push the new bulb into the metal
pry on the top middle of the lens. tabs. Snap the lens back in place.
Ceiling light:
pry on the front edge of the lens
in the middle.
Spotlight:
Not available on the 4 cylinder
models
Maintenance
Lights
Only on U.S. LX V-6 and EX V-6 models. On U.S. LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6 On U.S. LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6
and Canadian EX V-6 and EX-R V-6 models, and Canadian EX, EX V-6, EX-R models, and Canadian EX, EX V-6, EX-R
models and EX-R V-6 models and EX-R V-6 models
SPOTLIGHT DOOR LIGHT SUN VISOR
Maintenance
Lights
Replacing a Trunk Light Bulb

TRUNK
1. Remove the lens by carefully

prying on the edge of the lens with
a fingernail file or a small flat-tip
screwdriver. Do not pry on the
edge of the housing around the
lens.
2. Remove the bulb by pulling it

straight out of its metal tabs.
3. Push the new bulb into the metal

tabs. Snap the lens back in place.
Maintenance
Storing Your Car
If you need to park your car for an Block the rear wheels. Cover the car with a "breathable"
extended period (more than 1 car cover, one made from a porous
month), there are several things you If the car is to be stored for a material such as cotton.
should do to prepare it for storage. longer period, it should be Nonporous materials, such as
Proper preparation helps prevent supported on jackstands so the plastic sheeting, trap moisture
deterioration and makes it easier to tires are off the ground. which can damage the paint.
get your car back on the road. It is
best to store your car indoors if at all Leave one window open slightly (if If possible, run the engine for a
possible. the car is being stored indoors). while periodically (preferably once
a month).
Fill the fuel tank. Disconnect the battery.
If you store your car for 12 months
Change the engine oil and filter Support the front wiper blade or longer, have your Honda dealer
(see page 152 ). arms with a folded towel or rag so perform the inspections called for in
they do not touch the windshield. the 24 months/48,000 km (30,000
Wash and dry the exterior miles) maintenance schedule
completely. Apply a silicone spray lubricant to (Normal Conditions) as soon as you
all door and trunk seals. Also, take it out of storage (see page 142 ).
Clean the interior. Make sure the apply wax to the painted surfaces The replacements called for in the
carpeting, floor mats, etc. are that mate with the door and trunk maintenance schedule are not
completely dry. seals. needed unless the car has actually
reached that time or mileage.
Leave the parking brake off. Put
the transmission in Reverse
(manual) or Park (automatic).
Maintenance
Appearance Care
Regular cleaning and polishing of Exterior Care.................................. 200

your Honda helps to keep it "new" Washing...................................... 200
looking. This section gives you hints Power Antenna Cleaning.......... 200
on how to clean and preserve your Waxing...................................... 201
car's appearance: the paint, bright- Aluminum Wheels..................... 201
work, wheels and interior. Also Paint Touch-up........................... 202
included are several things you can Interior Care................................... 203
do to help prevent corrosion. Carpeting.................................... 203
Fabric.......................................... 203
Vinyl............................................ 203
Leather...................................... 203
Seat Belts.................................... 204
Windows..................................... 204
Air Fresheners........................... 204
Corrosion Protection..................... 205
Body Repairs.................................. 206
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Washing Wash the car, using the water and Power Antenna Cleaning
Frequent washing helps preserve detergent solution and a soft- Twice a year, clean the antenna mast
your car's beauty. Dirt and grit can bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth. with a dry cloth and mild detergent.
scratch the paint, while tree sap and Start at the top and work your way Scrub the antenna in upward strokes
bird droppings can permanently ruin down. Rinse frequently. to avoid bending it. Rinse with water.
the finish.
Check the body for road tar, tree Make sure the antenna works
Wash your car in a shady area, not in sap, etc. Remove these stains with smoothly by turning the stereo off
direct sunlight. If the car is parked in tar remover or turpentine. Rinse it and on several times with the
the sun, move it into the shade and off immediately so it does not ignition switch ON (II). The antenna
let the exterior cool down before you harm the finish. Remember to re- does not need lubricating.
start. wax these areas, even if the rest of If you use a "drive-through" car wash,
the car does not need waxing. make sure you turn the stereo off
NOTICE first. This retracts the antenna to
When you have washed and rinsed prevent damage from the car wash
Chemical solvents and strong cleaners the whole exterior, dry it with a brushes.
can damage the paint, metal, and chamois or soft towel. Letting it
plastic on your car. air-dry will cause dulling and water
spots.
Rinse the car thoroughly with cool
water to remove loose dirt. As you dry the car, inspect it for
chips and scratches that could allow
Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix corrosion to start. Repair them with
in a mild detergent, such as touch-up paint (see page 202 ).
dishwashing liquid or a product
made especially for car washing.
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Waxing Polishes — Polishes and cleaner/ Aluminum Wheels

Always wash and dry the whole car waxes can restore the shine to paint On the U.S. EX, EX V-6 and Canadian
before waxing it. You should wax that has oxidized and lost some of its EX-R. EX-R V-6 models
your car, including the metal trim, shine. They normally contain mild Clean your Honda's aluminum alloy
whenever water sits on the surface abrasives and solvents that remove wheels as you do the rest of the
in large patches. It should form into the top layer of the finish. You exterior. Wash them with the same
beads or droplets after waxing. should use a polish on your Honda if solution, and rinse them thoroughly.
the finish does not have its original
You should use a quality liquid or shine after using a wax. The wheels have a protective clear-
paste wax. Apply it according to the coat that keeps the aluminum from
instructions on the container. In Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with corroding and tarnishing. Using
general, there are two types of removers also takes off the wax. harsh chemicals, including some
products: Remember to re-wax those areas, commercial wheel cleaners, or stiff
even if the rest of the car does not brushes can damage this clear-coat.
Waxes — A wax coats the finish and need waxing. Only use a mild detergent and soft
protects it from damage by exposure brush or sponge to clean the wheels.
to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You
should use a wax on your Honda
when it is new.
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Paint Touch-up Examine the chip or scratch closely

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

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

Vacuum the carpeting frequently to Vacuum dirt and dust out of the Optional for the U.S. EX and EX V-6
remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make material frequently. For general models
the carpet wear out faster. cleaning, use a solution of mild soap Vacuum dirt and dust from the
Periodically shampoo the carpet to and lukewarm water, letting it air dry. leather frequently. Pay particular
keep it looking new. Use one of the To clean off stubborn spots, use a attention to the pleats and seams.
foam-type carpet cleaners on the commercially-available fabric cleaner. Clean the leather with a soft cloth
market. Follow the instructions that Test it on a hidden area of the fabric dampened with clear water, then
come with the cleaner, applying it first, to make sure it does not bleach buff it with a clean, dry cloth. If
with a sponge or soft brush. Keep or stain the fabric. Follow the further cleaning is needed, use a
the carpeting as dry as possible by instructions that come with the soap specifically for leather, such as
not adding water to the foam. cleaner. saddle soap. Apply this soap with a
damp, soft cloth. Wipe down and
Vinyl buff as described above.
Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum
cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft
cloth dampened in a solution of mild
soap and water. Use the same
solution with a soft-bristle brush on
more difficult spots. You can also use
commercially-available spray or
foam-type vinyl cleaners.
Appearance Care
Interior Care
Seat Belts Dirt build-up in the metal loops of NOTICE

the seat belt anchors can cause the
METAL LOOP belts to retract slowly. Wipe the The rear window defogger wires are
inside of the loops with a clean cloth bonded to the inside of the glass.
dampened in isopropyl alcohol or a Wiping vigorously up-and-down can
mixture of mild soap and warm dislodge and break the defogger wires.
water. When cleaning the rear window, use
gentle pressure and wipe side-to-side.
Windows
Clean the windows, inside and out, Air Fresheners
with a commercially-available glass If you want to use an air freshener/
cleaner. You can also use a mixture deodorizer in the interior of your car,
of one part white vinegar to ten parts it is best to use a solid type. Some
water. This will remove the haze that liquid air fresheners contain chemi-
If your seat belts get dirty, you can builds up on the inside of the cals that may cause parts of the
use a soft brush with a mixture of windows. Use a soft cloth or paper interior trim and fabric to crack or
mild soap and warm water to clean towels to clean all glass and clear discolor.
them. Do not use bleach, dye, or plastic surfaces.
cleaning solvents. They can weaken If you use a liquid air freshener,
the belt material. Let the belts air- make sure you fasten it securely so it
dry before you use the car. does not spill as you drive.
Appearance Care
Corrosion Protection
Two factors normally contribute to Many corrosion-preventive measures Use a high-pressure spray to clean
causing corrosion in your car: are built into your Honda. You can the underside of your car. This is
help keep your car from corroding especially important in areas that
1. Moisture trapped in body cavities. by performing some simple periodic use road salt in winter. It is also a
Dirt and road salt that collects in maintenance: good idea in humid climates and
hollows on the underside of the areas subject to salt air. Cars
car stays damp, promoting Repair chips and scratches in the equipped with ABS have a sensor
corrosion in that area. paint as soon as you discover them. and wiring at each wheel. Be
careful not to damage them.
2. Removal of paint and protective Inspect and clean out the drain
coatings from the exterior and holes in the bottom of the doors Have the corrosion-preventive
underside of the car. and body. coatings on the underside of your
car inspected and repaired
Check the floor coverings for periodically.
dampness. Carpeting and floor
mats may remain damp for a long
time, especially in winter. This
dampness can eventually cause
the floor panels to corrode.
Appearance Care
Body Repairs
Body repairs can affect your car's When reporting your collision to the
resistance to corrosion. If your car insurance company, tell them you
needs repairs after a collision, pay want genuine Honda parts used in
close attention to the parts used in the repair. Although most insurers
the repair and the quality of the recognize the quality of original
work. parts, some may try to specify that
the repairs be done with other
Make sure the repair facility uses available parts. You should
genuine Honda replacement body investigate this before any repairs
parts. Some companies make are begun.
sheetmetal pieces that seem to
duplicate the original Honda body Take your car to your authorized
parts, but are actually inferior in fit, Honda dealer for inspection after the
finish, and corrosion resistance. repairs are completed. He can make
Once installed, they do not give the sure that quality materials were used,
same high-quality appearance. and that corrosion-preventive
coatings were applied to all repaired
and replaced parts.
Appearance Care
Taking Care of the Unexpected
This section covers the more- Compact Spare Tire....................... 208

common problems that motorists Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 209
experience with their cars. It gives If Your Engine Won't Start........... 215
you information about how to safely Nothing Happens....................... 215
evaluate the problem and what to do The Starter Operates
to correct it. If the problem has Normally................................. 216
stranded you on the side of the road, Jump Starting................................. 216
you may be able to get going again. If Your Engine Overheats............. 219
If not, you will also find instructions Low Oil Pressure........................... 221
on getting your car towed. Charging System Indication......... 222
Malfunction Indicator Lamp/
Check Engine Light.................. 223
Closing the Moonroof................... 224
Fuses............................................... 225
Checking and Replacing........... 226
Towing............................................ 230

Compact Spare Tire
Your car has a compact spare tire Follow these precautions whenever INDICATOR
that takes up less space. Use this you are using the compact spare tire: LOCATION
spare tire as a temporary replace- MARK
ment only. Get your regular tire Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h)
repaired or replaced and put back on under any circumstances.
your car as soon as you can.
This tire gives a harsher ride and
Check the inflation pressure of the less traction on some road sur-
compact spare tire every time you faces than the regular tire. Use
check the other tires. It should be greater caution while driving on
TREAD WEAR
inflated to: this tire. INDICATOR
420 kPa (4.2 k g / c m 2 , 60 psi) BAR
Do not mount snow chains on the
compact spare. The compact spare tire has a shorter
tread life than a regular tire. Replace
The wheel of the compact spare it when you can see the tread wear
tire is designed especially to fit indicator bars. The replacement
your car. Do not use your spare should be the same size and design
tire on another car unless it is the tire, mounted on the same wheel.
same make and model. The compact spare tire is not
designed to be mounted on a regular
wheel, and the compact wheel is not
designed for mounting a regular tire.

Changing a Flat Tire
If you have a flat tire while driving, TRUNK FLOOR 3. Open the trunk. Raise the trunk
stop in a safe place to change it. floor by lifting up on the back edge.
Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder
of a busy road is dangerous. Drive 4. Take the tool kit out of the spare
slowly along the shoulder until you tire well.
get to an exit or an area to stop that TOOL
is far away from the traffic lanes. KIT 5. Unscrew the wing bolt and take
the spare tire out of its well.
The car can easily roll off the

jack, seriously injuring anyone SPARE TIRE JACK
underneath.
1. Park the car on firm, level ground
Follow the directions for away from traffic. Turn on the
changing a tire exactly, and hazard warning lights and turn the
never get under the car when it ignition to LOCK (0).
is supported only by the jack.
2. Put the transmission in Park
(automatic) or Reverse (manual).
Set the parking brake.
CONTINUED

6. The jack is behind a cover in the CENTER CAP

right fender. Remove the cover by
turning the handle clockwise, then
JACK
pulling on the cover.
SCREWDRIVER
7. Turn the jack's end bracket 8. (US: EX, Canada: EX-R)

counterclockwise to loosen it, then Remove the center cap from the
remove the jack. wheel with a screwdriver (not
included in tool kit) or coin.

WHEEL NUTS EXTENSION
JACKING POINT WHEEL WRENCH
9. Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2 10. Find the jacking point nearest the 11. Use the extension and wheel
turn with the wheel wrench. wheel you are removing. Place the wrench as shown to raise the car
jack under the jacking point. Turn until the flat tire is off the ground.
the end bracket clockwise until
the top of the jack contacts the
jacking point. Make sure the
jacking point tab is resting in the
jack notch.
CONTINUED

BRAKE HUB
12. Remove the wheel nuts and flat 13. Before mounting the spare tire, 14. Put on the spare tire. Put the
tire. Temporarily place the flat tire wipe any dirt off the mounting wheel nuts back on finger-tight,
on the ground with the outside surface of the wheel and hub with then tighten them in a crisscross
surface of the wheel facing up. a cloth. pattern with the wheel wrench
The outside surface contacting the until the wheel is firmly against
ground could damage the wheel the hub. Do not try to tighten
surface. them fully.

WING BOLT SPACER

CONE
4 cylinder models
15. Lower the car to the ground and 16. Tighten the wheel nuts securely in 17. Place the flat tire face down in the
remove the jack. the same crisscross pattern. Have spare tire well.
the wheel nut torque checked at
the nearest automotive service 18. Remove the spacer cone from the
facility. wing bolt, turn it over, and put it
Tighten the wheel nuts to: back on the bolt.
110 N.m (11 kg-m,80 Ib-ft)
19. Secure the flat tire by screwing
the wing bolt back into its hole.
CONTINUED

WING BOLT SPACER

CONE
6 cylinder models
2 0. Store the jack in its holder. Turn

the jack's end bracket to lock it in
place. Replace the cover. Store the
tool kit.
21. Store the wheel cover or center

cap in the trunk. Make sure it does
not get scratched or damaged.

If Your Engine Won't Start
Diagnosing why your engine won't Nothing Happens or the Starter Turn the ignition switch to START
start falls into two areas, depending Motor Operates Very Slowly (III). If the headlights do not dim,
on what you hear when you turn the When you turn the ignition switch to check the condition of the fuses. If
key to START (III): START (III), you do not hear the the fuses are OK, there is proba-
normal noise of the engine trying to bly something wrong with the
You hear nothing, or almost start. You may hear a clicking sound electrical circuit for the ignition
nothing. The engine's starter or series of clicks, or nothing at all. switch or starter motor. You will
motor does not operate at all, or Check these things: need a qualified technician to
operates very slowly. determine the problem. (See
Check the transmission interlock. Towing on page 230 .)
You can hear the starter motor If you have a manual transmission,
operating normally, but the engine the clutch pedal must be pushed If the headlights dim noticeably or
does not start up and run. all the way to the floor or the go out when you try to start the
starter will not operate. With an engine, either the battery is dis-
automatic transmission, it must be charged or the connections are
in Park or Neutral. corroded. Check the condition of
the battery and terminal connec-
Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). tions (see page 176 ). You can
Turn on the headlights and check then try jump starting the car from
their brightness. If the headlights a booster battery (see page 216 ).
are very dim or don't light at all,
the battery is discharged. See
Jump Starting on page 216 .

If Your Engine Won't Start, Jump Starting
The Starter Operates Normally Jump Starting To jump start your car:
In this case, the starter motor If your car's battery has run down,
sounds normal when you turn the you may be able to start the engine 1. Open the hood and check the
ignition switch to START (III), but by using a booster battery. Although physical condition of the battery
the engine does not run. this seems like a simple procedure, (see page 175 ). In very cold
there are several precautions you weather, check the condition of
Are you using the proper starting should take. Follow the directions the electrolyte. If it seems slushy
procedure? Refer to Starting the closely. or like ice, do not try jump starting
Engine on page 119 . until it thaws.
Do you have fuel? Turn the NOTICE

ignition switch to ON (II) for a A battery can explode if you do
minute and watch the fuel gauge. not follow the correct procedure, If a battery sits in extreme cold, the
The low fuel level warning light seriously injuring anyone electrolyte inside can freeze.
may not be working, so you were nearby. Attempting to jump start with a frozen
not reminded to fill the tank. battery can cause it to rupture or
Keep all sparks, open flames, explode.
There may be an electrical and smoking materials away
problem, such as no power to the from the battery. 2. Turn off all the electrical acces-
fuel pump. Check all the fuses sories: climate control, stereo
(see page 225 ). system, lights, etc.
You cannot start a Honda with an Put the transmission in Neutral or
If you find nothing wrong, you will automatic transmission by pushing Park and set the parking brake.
need a qualified technician to find or pulling it.
the problem. See Towing on page
230.

Jump Starting
3. Connect one jumper cable to the 4. Connect the second jumper cable
positive ( + ) terminal on the to the negative (—) terminal on
booster battery. Connect the other the booster battery. Connect the
end to the positive ( + ) terminal other end to the grounding strap
on your Honda's battery. as shown. Do not connect this
jumper cable to any other part of
the engine.
5. If the booster battery is in another

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

Jump Starting
BOOSTER BOOSTER
6 cylinder models 4 cylinder models BATTERY 6 cylinder models BATTERY
6. Start your car. If the starter motor 7. Once your car is running, discon-
still operates slowly, check the nect the negative cable from your
jumper cable connections to make car, then from the booster battery.
sure they have good metal-to- Disconnect the positive cable from
metal contact. your car, then the booster battery.

If Your Engine Overheats
The pointer of your car's tempera- Your car can overheat for several 1. Safely pull to the side of the road.
ture gauge should stay in the mid- reasons, such as lack of coolant or a Put the transmission in neutral or
range under most conditions. It may mechanical problem. The only park and set the parking brake.
go higher if you are driving up a long indication may be the temperature Turn off the heating and cooling
steep hill on a very hot day. If it gauge climbing to or above the red system and all other accessories.
climbs to the red mark, you should mark. Or you may see steam or Turn on the hazard warning
determine the reason. spray coming from under the hood. indicators.
In either case, you should take
NOTICE immediate action. 2. If you see steam and/or spray
coming from under the hood, turn
Driving with the temperature gauge off the engine.
pointer at the red mark can cause
serious damage to your engine. Steam and spray from an 3. If you do not see steam or spray,
overheated engine can leave the engine running and
seriously scald you. watch the temperature gauge. If
the high heat is due to overloading
Do not open the hood if steam (climbing a long, steep hill on a
is coming out. hot day with the A/C running, for
example), the engine should start
to cool down almost immediately.
If it does, wait until the tempera-
ture gauge comes down to the mid-
point then continue driving.
CONTINUED

If Your Engine Overheats
4. If the temperature gauge stays at reaches the middle of the tempera- 10.Start the engine and set the
the red mark, turn off the engine. ture gauge, or lower, before check- temperature control dial to
ing the radiator. maximum. Add coolant to the
5. Wait until you see no more signs radiator up to the base of the filler
of steam or spray, then open the neck. If you do not have the
hood. proper coolant mixture available,
Removing the radiator cap you can add plain water.
6. Look for any obvious coolant leaks, while the engine is hot can Remember to have the cooling
such as a split radiator hose. cause the coolant to spray out, system drained and refilled with
Everything is still extremely hot, seriously scalding you. the proper mixture as soon as you
so use caution. If you find a leak, it can.
must be repaired before you Always let the engine and
continue driving (see Towing on radiator cool down before 11.Put the radiator cap back on
page 230 ). removing the radiator cap. tightly. Run the engine and watch
the temperature gauge. If it goes
7. If you don't find an obvious leak, back to the red mark, the engine
check the coolant level in the 9. Using gloves or a large heavy needs repair. (See Towing on
radiator reserve tank (see page cloth, turn the radiator cap page 230 .)
146 ). If the level is below the counterclockwise, without pushing
MIN mark, add coolant to half-way down, to the first stop. This 12.If the temperature stays normal,
between the MIN and MAX marks. releases any remaining pressure in check the coolant level in the
the cooling system. After the radiator reserve tank. If it has
8. If there was no coolant in the pressure releases, push down on gone down, add coolant to the
reserve tank, you may also have to the cap and turn it until it comes MAX mark. Put the cap back on
add coolant to the radiator. Let the off. tightly.
engine cool down until the pointer

Low Oil Pressure
LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR 1. Safely pull off the road and shut 4. Start the engine and watch the oil
off the engine. pressure light. If the light does not
go out within ten seconds, turn off
2. Let the car sit for a minute. Open the engine. There is a mechanical
the hood and check the oil level problem that needs to be repaired
(see page 149 ). Although oil level before you can continue driving.
and oil pressure are not directly (See Towing on page 230 .)
connected, an engine that is very
low on oil can lose pressure during
cornering and other driving
maneuvers.
3. If necessary, add oil to bring the

The low oil pressure indicator should level back to the full mark on the
never come on when the engine is dipstick (see page 149 ).
running. If this light flashes or stays
on with the engine running, take
immediate action.
NOTICE
Running the engine with low oil
pressure can cause serious mechanical
damage almost immediately. Turn off
the engine as soon as you can safely get
the car stopped.

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

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

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

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

safely pull off the road and turn off
the engine. If you keep driving with the malfunc-
tion indicator lamp/check engine light
on, you can damage your car's
Restart the engine and watch the
emission controls and engine. Those
indicator light.
repairs may not be covered by your
If it stays on, have your car's warranties.
car checked by the dealer as soon
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ as possible. Drive moderately
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT* until the dealer has inspected the
* U.S. indicator shown problem. Avoid full-throttle
acceleration and driving at
If this indicator comes on while high speed.
driving, there is a problem with your
engine or its emission control You should also have the dealer
systems. Even though you may feel inspect your car if the indicator
no difference in your car's per- light comes on frequently, even
formance, it can reduce your fuel though it goes off when you
economy and cause your car to put follow the above procedure.
out excessive emissions. Continued
operation may cause serious engine
damage.

Closing the Moonroof
If the electric motor will not close ROUND PLUG SOCKET

the moonroof, do the following:
1. Check the fuse for the moonroof

motor (see page 225 ). If the fuse
is blown, replace it with one of the
same or lower rating.
2. Try closing the moonroof. If the

new fuse blows immediately or the
moonroof motor still does not
operate, you can close the
moonroof manually.
4. Use a screwdriver or coin to 5. Insert the moonroof wrench into
3. Get the tool kit out of the trunk. remove the round plug in the the socket behind this plug. Turn
center of the headliner. the wrench until the moonroof is
fully closed.
6. Remove the wrench. Replace the

round plug.

Fuses
All the electrical circuits in your car INTERIOR UNDERHOOD TAB

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

Fuses
ABS FUSE BOX Checking and Replacing Fuses

If something electrical in your car
stops working, the first thing you
should check for is a blown fuse.
Determine from the chart on pages
228 and 229 , or the diagram on the
fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses
control that component. Check those
fuses first, but check all the fuses
before deciding that is not the cause.
BLOWN
Replace any blown fuses and check
the component's operation.
Cars equipped with ABS have a third 1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK 3. Check each of the large fuses in
fuse box for the ABS. It is in the (0). Make sure the headlights and the underhood fuse box by looking
engine compartment on the right all other accessories are off. through the top at the wire inside.
side. Removing these fuses requires a
2. Remove the cover from the fuse Phillips-head screwdriver.
box.

Fuses
If you replace the blown fuse with a

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

Fuses
UNDERHOOD FUSE BOX
* 1: On Canadian cars
* 2 : US: EX, LX V-6 and EX V-6, Canada: EX-R, EX V-6, EX-R V-6
* 3 : US: LX V-6, EX V-6, Canada: EX V-6, EX-R V-6
* 4 : US: EX V-6, Canada: EX-R V-6

Fuses
ABS FUSE BOX INTERIOR FUSE BOX

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

Technical Information
The diagrams in this section give Identification Numbers................. 232 Emission Controls......................... 240
you the dimensions and capacities of Specifications................................. 234 The Clean Air Act...................... 240
your Honda, and the locations of the Anti-lock Brake System................ 236 Crankcase Emission Control
identification numbers. The expla- Tire Information............................ 237 System................................... 240
nations of several electronic and Tire Size Designation................ 237 Evaporative Emission Control
mechanical systems on your Honda Wheel Size Designation............ 237 System..................................... 240
are for the more technically-oriented Tire Speed Ratings.................... 237 Exhaust Emission Controls...... 241
owner. Tire Pressure Adjustment PGM-FI System..................... 241
For High Speed Driving........ 238 Ignition Timing Control
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 238 System............................... 241
Treadwear.............................. 238 Exhaust Gas Recirculation
Traction.................................. 239 (EGR) System.................... 241
Temperature.......................... 239 Three Way Catalytic
Converter............................ 241
Warm-up Three Way
Catalytic Converter........... 241
Replacement Parts..................... 241
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 242
Identification Numbers
Your car has several identifying

numbers located in various places. VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
The Vehicle Identification Number

(VIN) is the 17-digit number your
Honda dealer uses to register your
car for warranty purposes. It is also
necessary for licensing and insuring
your car. The easiest place to find
the VIN is on a plate fastened to the
top of the dashboard. You can see it
by looking through the windshield
on the driver's side. It is also on the
Certification label attached to the
driver's doorjamb, and is stamped on
the engine compartment bulkhead.
The VIN is also provided in bar code
on the Certification label.
CERTIFICATION LABEL
Identification Numbers
The Engine Number is stamped into 4 Cylinder Models

the engine block. It is on the front. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER
The Transmission Number is on a

label on top of the transmission.
MANUAL
TRANSMISSION
NUMBER
ENGINE NUMBER
6 Cylinder Models
ENGINE NUMBER
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER
Specifications
* 12 :: US:
US: EX, Canada: EX-R
* DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX
* 3 : 6 cylinder models
* 1 : Including
engine.
the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the
Reserve tank capacity: 0.6 (0.16 US g a l , 0.13 Imp gal)

** 23 :: Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.
* 4 : US: EX, Canada: EX-R
* 6 cylinder models
Specifications
pages 172 and 174 .
page 229
page 228
* 21 :: US:
US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX
* 3 : US: EX, Canada: EX-R
LX with ABS, EX, Canada: EX with ABS, EX-R
* 4 : 6 cylinder models
*
Anti-lock Brake System
The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Each wheel has a wheel speed the solenoid. This builds hydraulic
is standard equipment on the LX V-6, sensor assembly. As the wheel pressure on the modulator valve.
EX. EX V-6 models in the U.S. and rotates, the sensor sends electrical The pressure increases in the
the EX-R, EX V-6. EX-R V-6 models pulses to the ABS control unit. The hydraulic line to the wheel.
in Canada. It is optional on the LX pulse frequency varies with the
model in the U.S. and the EX model wheel speed. For the system to react quickly, the
in Canada. modulator/solenoid unit must have
The electrical output of the ABS brake fluid under high pressure.
The ABS works by measuring how control unit is connected to the This is supplied by a piston-type
fast the wheels are turning during modulator/solenoid unit. During accumulator that is pressurized by
braking and comparing their speed. braking, the ABS control unit an electric pump. A pressure-sensing
If any wheel is rotating much slower monitors the pulse frequencies from switch on the accumulator controls
than the others (on the verge of the four wheels. When the control this pump.
locking up and skidding), the system unit detects a wheel locking up, it
reduces hydraulic pressure to that energizes the appropriate solenoid in The control unit also contains error
wheel's brake caliper. When that the modulator/solenoid unit. There detection circuitry. It monitors the
wheel's speed matches the other are six solenoids: two for each front operation of the wheel sensors,
wheels, the system applies normal wheel, and two for the rear wheels. solenoids, pump, and electronics. If
hydraulic pressure. This can take The energized solenoid reduces the control unit detects any faults, it
place several times per second at hydraulic pressure to one side of a shuts off power to the pump motor
each wheel. You feel the ABS modulator valve. This, in turn, and solenoids. The light on the
working as rapid pulsations in the reduces hydraulic pressure in the instrument panel comes on. The
brake pedal. brake line going to the affected brakes then work like a conventional
wheel. When that wheel speeds up system without anti-lock capabilities.
because of the reduced braking
effort, the control unit de-energizes
Tire Information
Tire Size Designation 87 — Load Index, a numerical code Tire Speed Ratings
A tire's sidewall is marked with a tire associated with the maximum load The chart below shows many of the
size designation. You will need this the tire can carry. different speed ratings currently
information when selecting being used for passenger car tires.
replacement tires for your car. The S — Speed Rating Symbol. See the The speed rating symbol is part of
following explains what the letters speed rating chart in this section for the tire size designation on the
and numbers in the tire size additional information. sidewall of the tire. This symbol
designation mean. corresponds to that tire's designed
Wheel Size Designation maximum safe operating speed.
(Example tire size designation) Wheels are also marked with
P185/70R14 87S important information that you need
if you ever have to replace one. The
P — Applicable vehicle type (tires following explains what the letters
marked with the prefix "P" are and numbers in the wheel size
intended for use on passenger cars; designation mean.
however, not all tires have this
marking). (Example wheel size designation)
15 x 5-1/2 JJ
185 — Tire width in millimeters.
15 — Rim diameter in inches.
70 — Aspect ratio. The tire's section
height as a percentage of its width. 5-1/2 — Rim width in inches.
R — Tire construction code (Radial). JJ — Rim contour designation.
14 — Rim diameter in inches.
Tire Information
Tire Pressure Adjustment For (US: LX V-6, EX V-6, Canada: EX V-6, The following explains these
High Speed Driving EX-R V-6) gradings.
Honda strongly recommends that
you not drive faster than posted Treadwear
speed limits and conditions allow. If The treadwear grade is a compara-
you decide it is safe to drive at high tive rating based on the wear rate of
speeds, be sure to adjust the cold tire the tire when tested under controlled
pressures as shown below. If you do conditions on a specified government
not adjust the tire pressure, test course. For example, a tire
excessive heat can build up and graded 150 would wear one and one
cause sudden tire failure. half (1-1/2) times as well on the
government course as a tire graded
Be sure to readjust the pressure for 100. The relative performance of
normal driving speeds. You should tires depends upon the actual condi-
wait until the tires are cold before tions of their use, however, and may
adjusting the tire pressure (see page depart significantly from the norm
182). due to variations in driving habits,
service practices and differences in
DOT Tire Quality Grading road characteristics and climate.
(U.S. Cars)
The tires on your car meet all U.S.
Federal Safety Requirements. All
tires are also graded for treadwear,
traction, and temperature perform-
ance according to Department of
Transportation (DOT) standards.
Tire Information
Traction Temperature Warning: The temperature grade for

The traction grades, from highest to The temperature grades are A (the this tire is established for a tire that
lowest, are A, B, and C, and they highest), B, and C, representing the is properly inflated and not over-
represent the tire's ability to stop on tire's resistance to the generation of loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-
wet pavement as measured under heat and its ability to dissipate heat tion, or excessive loading either
controlled conditions on specified when tested under controlled separately or in combination, can
government test surfaces of asphalt conditions on a specified indoor cause heat build-up and possible tire
and concrete. A tire marked C may laboratory test wheel. Sustained high failure.
have poor traction performance. temperature can cause the material
of the tire to degenerate and reduce
Warning: The traction grade as- tire life, and excessive temperature
signed to this tire is based on brak- can lead to sudden tire failure. The
ing (straight ahead) traction tests grade C corresponds to a level of
and does not include cornering performance which all passenger car
(turning) traction. tires must meet under the Federal
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No.
109. Grades B and A represent
higher levels of performance on the
laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.
Emission Controls
The burning of gasoline in your car's The Clean Air Act Crankcase Emission Control
engine produces several byproducts. The United States Clean Air Act* System
Some of these are carbon monoxide sets standards for automobile Your car has a Positive Crankcase
(CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and emissions. It also requires that Ventilation System. This keeps
hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline automobile manufacturers explain to gasses that build up in the engine's
evaporating from the tank also owners how their emission controls crankcase from going into the
produces hydrocarbons. Controlling work and what to do to maintain atmosphere. The Positive Crankcase
the production of NOx, CO, and HC them. This section summarizes how Ventilation valve routes them from
is important to the environment. the emission controls work. the crankcase back to the intake
Under certain conditions of sunlight Scheduled maintenance is on page manifold. They are then drawn into
and climate, NOx and HC react to 142. the engine and burned.
form photochemical "smog." Carbon
monoxide does not contribute to * In Canada, Honda vehicles comply Evaporative Emission Control
smog creation, but it is a poisonous with the Canadian Motor Vehicle System
gas. Safety Standards (CMVSS) for As gasoline evaporates in the fuel
Emissions valid at the time they are tank, an evaporative emission control
manufactured. canister filled with charcoal adsorbs
the vapor. It is stored in this canister
while the engine is off. After the
engine is started and warmed up, the
vapor is drawn into the engine and
burned during driving.
Emission Controls
Exhaust Emission Controls Ignition Timing Control System Warm-up Three Way Catalytic
The exhaust emission controls This system constantly adjusts the Converter
include four systems: PGM-FI, ignition timing, reducing the amount (For some types)
Ignition Timing Control, Exhaust of HC, CO and NOx produced. This is in the exhaust system, near
Gas Recirculation and Three Way the exhaust manifold. During engine-
Catalytic Converter. These four Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) warm-up, it converts HC, CO, and
systems work together to control the System NOx to carbon dioxide (CO2),
engine's combustion and minimize The Exhaust Gas Recirculation dinitrogen (N 2 ), and water vapor.
the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that (EGR) system takes some of the
comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust exhaust gas and routes it back into Replacement Parts
emission control systems are the intake manifold. Adding exhaust The emission control systems are
separate from the crankcase and gas to the air/fuel mixture reduces designed and certified to work to-
evaporative emission control the amount of NOx produced when gether in reducing emissions to
systems. the fuel is burned. levels that comply with the Clean Air
Act. To make sure the emissions
PGM-FI System Three Way Catalytic Converter remain low, you should use only new
The PGM-FI System uses sequential The three way catalytic converter is genuine Honda replacement parts or
multiport fuel injection. in the exhaust system. Through their equivalent for repairs. Using
It has three subsystems: Air Intake. chemical reactions, it converts HC, lower quality parts may increase the
Engine Control, and Fuel Control. CO. and NOx in the engine's exhaust emissions from your car.
The Engine Control Module (ECM) to carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), dinitrogen
uses various sensors to determine (N 2 ), and water vapor. The emissions control systems are
how much air is going into the covered by warranties separate from
engine. It then controls how much the rest of your car. Read your
fuel to inject under all operating warranty manual for more informa-
conditions. tion.
Three Way Catalytic Converter
The three way catalytic converter Keep the engine tuned-up.

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

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

Even a small amount of leaded
gasoline can contaminate the
catalyst metals, making the three
way catalytic converter ineffective.
Warranty and Customer Relations
Warranty Coverages...................... 244

Customer Relations
Information ................................ 245
U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 246
Canada Zone Office Map............... 247
Reporting Safety Defects............... 248
Authorized Manuals....................... 249

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

Customer Relations Information
Honda dealership personnel are If you are dissatisfied with the When you call or write, please give
trained professionals. They should decision made by the dealership's us this information:
be able to answer all your questions. management, contact your Honda
If you encounter a problem that your Customer Relations Zone Office. Vehicle Identification Number
dealership does not solve to your Refer to the U.S. and Canadian Zone (see page 232)
satisfaction, please discuss it with Office maps on the following pages. Name and address of the dealer
the dealership's management. The who services your car
Service Manager or General Date of purchase
Manager can help. Almost all Mileage on your car
problems are solved in this way. Your name, address, and tele-
phone number
A detailed description of the
problem
Name of the dealer who sold the
car to you

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

P.O. Box 2260 902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200
700 Van Ness Avenue Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878
Torrance, California (301) 990-2020
90509-2260
(310) 781-4565 Southeastern Zone
1500 Morrison Parkway
Northwestern Zone Alpharetta, Georgia 30201
P.O. Box 20186 (404) 442-2045
12439 N.E. Airport Way
Portland, Oregon 97220 North Central Zone
(503) 256-0943 601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9
(also includes Alaska and Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004
Hawaii) (708) 870-5600
South Central Zone New England Zone

4529 Royal Lane 555 Old County Road
Irving, Texas 75063 Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096
(214) 929-5481 (203) 623-3310
See Zone 5 for:
Central Zone NYC Metro area and
101 South Stanfield Road Fairfield County, CT area
Troy, Ohio 45373
(513) 332-6250 West Central Zone
1600 South Abilene Street, Suite D
Northeastern Zone Aurora, Colorado 80012
P.O. Box 337 (303) 696-3935
Eastgate Industrial Park
115 Gaither Drive Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I.
The addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot Moorestown, New Jersey 08057 Bella International
reach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information. (609) 235-5533 P.O. Box 190816
Includes: NYC Metro area and San Juan, PR 00919-0816
Fairfield County, CT area (809) 250-8070
Customer Relations
Canada Zone Office Map
Western Zone Quebec Zone

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

Honda Canada Inc. Honda Canada Inc.
126 Milner Avenue 800 Windmill Road
Scarborough, Ontario Dartmouth, N.S.
M1S 3R2 B3B 1L1
(416) 299-3400 (902) 468-4416
Customer Relations
Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Cars)
If you believe that your vehicle has a If NHTSA receives similar com- To contact NHTSA, you may either
defect which could cause a crash or plaints, it may open an investigation, call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free
could cause injury or death, you and if it finds that a safety defect at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
should immediately inform the exists in a group of vehicles, it may Washington D.C. area) or write to:
National Highway Traffic Safety order a recall and remedy campaign. NHTSA, U.S. Department of
Administration (NHTSA) in addition However, NHTSA cannot become Transportation, Washington,
to notifying American Honda Motor involved in individual problems D.C. 20590. You can also obtain
Co., Inc. between you, your dealer, or other information about motor
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. vehicle safety from the Hotline.
Index
Seats.............................................. 56 Shift Lever Positions................. 123

Steering Wheel............................ 46 Shift Lock Release..................... 126
Accessories Airbag (SRS).................................... 11
Installation.................................. 114 Air Cleaner..................................... 168
ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Air Conditioning............................... 74
Position)....................................... 52 Maintenance............................... 180 Battery
Adding Usage............................................. 74 Charging System Eight............... 36
Automatic Transmission Air Outlets (Vents).......................... 74 Jump Starting............................. 216
Fluid................................163, 164 Air Pressure, Tires........................ 182 Maintenance............................... 175
Brake Fluid................................. 165 Alcohol and Drugs........................... 27 Specifications............................. 235
Clutch Fluid................................ 167 Alcohol in Gasoline........................ 106 Before Driving............................... 105
Engine Coolant........................... 156 Antenna, Cleaning......................... 200 Belts, Seat......................................... 5
Engine Oil................................... 149 Antifreeze....................................... 155 Beverage Holder.............................. 68
Manual Transmission Fluid..... 165 Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Body Repair.................................... 206
Power Steering Fluid................. 167 Description................................. 236 Brakes
Windshield Washer Fluid......... 162 Indicator Eight.....................37, 128 Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 128
Additional Safety Information........ 18 Operation.................................... 128 Break-in, New Linings .............. 106
Door Locks................................... 19 Anti-theft Steering Column Lock .. 52 Fluid............................................ 165
Driving with Pets......................... 19 Appearance Care........................... 199 Eight, Burned-out...................... 191
Head Restraint Position.............. 18 Ashtray.............................................. 70 Parking.......................................... 66
Seat-back Position........................ 18 Audio System................................... 81 System Indicator.......................... 36
Storing Cargo Safely................... 19 Automatic Speed Control................ 48 Wear Indicators......................... 127
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 152 Automatic Transmission............... 122
Adjustments Capacity, Fluid........................... 234
Mirrors.......................................... 65 Checking Fluid Level................ 163
Head Restraints........................... 59 Shifting........................................ 122 CONTINUED
Index
Brakes, ABS Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 28 Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 165
Description................................. 236 Cargo, Loading............................... 115 Power Steering Fluid................. 167
Operation.................................... 128 Cassette Player Checklist. Before Driving............. 118
System Indicator..................37, 128 Care............................................. 101 Child Safety...................................... 20
Braking System.............................. 127 Operation................................85, 94 Cigarette Lighter............................. 70
Break-in, New Car......................... 106 CAUTION, Explanation of............... ii Cleaner, Air.................................... 168
Brightness Control, Instruments... 43 CD Player.......................................... 97 Cleaning
Brights, Headlights......................... 42 Certification Label......................... 232 Aluminum Wheels..................... 201
Bulb Replacement Chains............................................. 186 Antenna....................................... 200
Back-up Lights........................... 191 Change Oil Carpeting.................................... 203
Brake Lights............................... 191 How to......................................... 152 Exterior....................................... 200
Ceiling Light............................... 194 When to....................................... 142 Fabric.......................................... 203
Front Parking Lights................. 190 Changing a Flat Tire..................... 209 Interior........................................ 203
Front Side Marker Lights......... 190 Changing Engine Coolant............. 157 Seat Belts.................................... 204
Headlights.................................. 187 Charging System Indicator.... 36, 222 Vinyl............................................ 203
High-mount Brake Light.......... 193 Check Engine Light........................ 37 Window....................................... 204
License Plate Lights.................. 193 Checking CLEAN Light................................. 101
Rear Side Marker Lights.......... 192 Automatic Transmission Clock, Setting the............................ 67
Specifications............................. 235 Fluid........................................ 163 Clutch Fluid.................................... 167
Turn Signal Lights..................... 189 Battery Condition...................... 175 Coin Box........................................... 69
Bulbs, Halogen............................... 187 Brake Fluid................................. 166 CO in the Exhaust......................... 240
Clutch Fluid................................ 167 Cold Weather, Starting in............. 120
Drive Belts.................................. 181 Compact Spare............................... 208
Engine Coolant........................... 155 Consumer Information.................. 245
Cables, Jump Starting With.......... 216 Engine Oil................................... 149 Controls, Instruments and.............. 33
Capacities Chart............................. 234 Fuses........................................... 225
Index
Coolant Engine Oil................................... 149 Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 221

Adding......................................... 156 Directional Signals........................... 43 Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 223
Checking..................................... 155 Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 230 Manually Closing Moonroof.... 224
Proper Solution.......................... 155 Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 127 Overheated Engine................... 219
Temperature Gauge................... 40 Disposal of Used Oil...................... 154 Emergency Brake............................ 66
Corrosion Protection.................... 205 Doors Emergency Flashers....................... 45
Crankcase Emission Control Locking and Unlocking............... 53 Emission Controls......................... 240
System......................................... 240 Power Door Locks....................... 53 Engine
Cruise Control Operation............... 48 DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 238 Belts............................................. 181
Customer Relations Office........... 245 Downshifting, 5-speed Manual Check Eight.......................... 37, 223
Transmission.............................. 121 Coolant Temperature Gauge .... 40
Drive Belts...................................... 181 Malfunction Indicator
Driving............................................ 117 Lamp................................. 37, 223
DANGER, Explanation of................. ii Economy..................................... 113 Oil Pressure Indicator......... 36, 221
Dashboard........................................ 34 In Bad Weather.......................... 129 Oil, What Kind to Use............... 151
Daytime Running Eights................. 42 In Foreign Countries................. 107 Overheating................................ 219
Dead Battery, What to Do............ 216 Specifications............................. 235
Defects, Reporting Safety............... 29 Ethanol in Gasoline....................... 106
Defogger, Rear Window................. 45 Evaporative Emission Controls.... 240
Defrosting the Windows................. 80 Economy, Fuel............................... 113 Exhaust Fumes................................ 28
DEXRON® II Automatic Emergencies on the Road............. 207 Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat
Transmission Fluid.................... 163 Battery, Jump Starting.............. 216 Belts by......................................... 10
Dimensions..................................... 234 Changing a Flat Tire................. 209 Exterior, Cleaning the................... 200
Dimming the Headlights ................ 42 Charging System Indicator...... 222
Dipstick Check Engine Light.................. 223
Automatic Transmission ..163, 164 Checking the Fuses................... 226 CONTINUED
Index
Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 107 5-speed Manual

Four-way Flashers........................... 45 Transmission.......................... 121
Fabric, Cleaning............................. 203 Front End, Towing by Glass Cleaning............................... 204
Fan, Interior...................................... 76 Emergency Wrecker................. 230 Glove Box......................................... 55
Features, Comfort and Fuel................................................. 106
Convenience............................... 73 Fill Door and Cap....................... 108
Filling the Fuel Tank..................... 108 Gauge............................................ 40
Filter Octane Requirement................. 106 Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 187
Oil................................................ 152 Oxygenated................................ 106 Hazard Warning Flashers............... 45
First Gear, Shifting........................ 121 Tank, Filling the......................... 108 Headlights......................................... 42
5-speed Manual Transmission, Fuses, Checking the...................... 226 Daytime Running Lights............. 42
Checking Fluid Level................ 165 High Beam Indicator................... 38
5-speed Manual Transmission, High Beams, Turning on............ 42
Shifting the................................. 121 Low Beams, Turning on ............. 42
Flashers, Hazard Warning............. 45 Gas Mileage, Improving................ 113 Reminder Chime.......................... 42
Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 209 Gasohol........................................... 106 Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 187
Fluids Gasoline.......................................... 106 Turning on....................................42
Automatic Transmission ..163, 164 Gauge............................................ 40 Head Restraints............................... 59
Brake.......................................... 166 Octane Requirement................. 106 Heating and Cooling........................ 74
Clutch..........................................167 Tank, Filling the......................... 108 High Altitude, Starting at.............. 120
Manual Transmission............... 165 Gas Station Procedures................. 108 High-Low Beam Switch .................. 42
Power Steering........................... 167 Gauges Hood, Opening the........................ 109
Windshield Washer................... 161 Engine Coolant Temperature .... 40 Horn................................................... 51
FM Stereo Radio Fuel.............................................. 40 Hot Coolant, Warning about........ 156
Reception...................................... 84 Gearshift Lever Positions Hydraulic Clutch............................ 167
Folding Rear Seat............................ 60 Automatic Transmission........... 123 Hydroplaning.................................. 129
Index
Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 121

Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 36, 221
Identification Number, Vehicle.... 232 Keys................................................. 51 Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 234
If Your Car Has to be Towed....... 230 Luggage.......................................... 115
Ignition
Keys............................................... 51
Switch............................................ 52 Label, Certification........................ 232
Timing Control System............. 241 Lane Change, Signaling.................. 43 Maintenance................................... 137
Indicator Lights, Instrument Lap Belt............................................... 6 Periodic Items............................ 146
Panel............................................ 35 Lap/Shoulder Belts........................... 6 Record.................................. 144-145
Infant Restraint................................ 22 Leaking of Exhaust into Car.......... 28 Required Indicator....................... 40
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 182 Lighter, Cigarette............................ 70 Safely.......................................... 138
Inside Mirror.................................... 64 Lights Schedule..............................140- 143
Inspection, Tire.............................. 183 Bulb Replacement..................... 187 Malfunction Indicator Lamp..37, 223
Instrument Panel............................. 34 Indicator........................................ 35 Manual Transmission.................... 121
Instrument Panel Brightness......... 43 Parking.......................................... 42 Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 165
Interior Cleaning............................ 203 Turn Signal................................... 43 Maximum Shift Speeds.........122, 126
Interior Lights.................................. 71 Loading Cargo................................ 115 Meters, Gauges................................ 39
Introduction......................................... i LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 52 Methanol in Gasoline.................... 107
Locks Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 64
Anti-theft Steering Column........ 52 Moonroof.......................................... 63
Fuel Fill Door............................. 108 Closing Manually....................... 224
Jacking up the Car......................... 211 Glove Box..................................... 55 Operation...................................... 63
Jack, Tire........................................ 209 Power Door.................................. 53
Jump Starting................................. 216 Trunk............................................ 54
Low Coolant Level......................... 155 CONTINUED
Index
Reclining the Seat Backs................ 56

Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 121
Neutral Gear Position.................... 124 Panel Brightness Control............... 43 Reminder Lights.............................. 35
New Vehicle Break-in ................... 106 Park Gear Position......................... 124 Replacement Information
Normal Shift Speeds...................... 121 Parking Brake.................................. 66 Air Cleaner................................. 168
NOTICE, Explanation of................... ii Parking Eights.................................. 42 Coolant........................................ 157
Numbers, Identification................ 232 Parking Over Things that Burn... 242 Engine Oil and Filter................. 152
PGM-FI System.............................. 241 Fuses........................................... 225
Polishing and Waxing................... 201 Eight Bulbs................................. 187
Power Schedule..................................... 142
Occupant Protection System............ 4 Door Locks................................... 53 Spark Plugs........................ 171, 173
Octane Requirement, Gasoline.... 106 Mirrors.......................................... 65 Tires ......................................... 184
Odometer.......................................... 39 Steering....................................... 167 wiper Blades....................... 178
Odometer, Trip................................ 39 Windows....................................... 62
Oil Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 10 Replacing Seat Belts After a
Change, How to ......................... 152 Proper Seat Belt Usage..................... 7 Crash........................................... 10
Change, When to....................... 142 Reserve Tank, Coolant.................. 159
Checking Engine....................... 149 Restraint, Child................................ 20
Pressure Indicator....................... 36 Reverse Gear Position................... 124
Selecting Proper Viscosity Radiator Overheating.................... 219 Rotation, Tire................................. 184
Chart....................................... 151 Radio/Cassette Sound System....... 81
ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 52 Rear End Towing........................... 230
Opening the Hood......................... 109 Rear Eights, Bulb Replacement... 191 Safety Belts......................................... 5
Operation in Foreign Countries... 107 Rear Seat, Folding........................... 60 Safety Defects, Reporting............. 248
Outside Mirrors............................... 64 Rear View Mirror............................. 64 Safety Labels, Location of....... 29, 30
Overheating, Engine..................... 219 Rear Window Defogger.................. 45 Safety Messages................................ ii
Index
Seat Belts............................................ 5 Side Marker Lights, Bulb Supplemental Restraint System

Advice for Pregnant Women...... 10 Replacement in.......................... 190 Service Precautions..................... 17
Child Seat Anchor Plate.............. 26 Signaling Turns................................ 43 Servicing....................................... 16
Cleaning...................................... 204 Snow Tires...................................... 186 SRS Indicator.......................... 16, 37
Frayed or Torn............................. 10 Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 200 System Components.................... 11
Maintenance................................. 10 Sound System................................... 81
Reminder Light and Beeper....... 35 Spare Tire
Replacement................................. 10 Inflating....................................... 208
System Components...................... 6 Specifications............................. 235 Tachometer...................................... 39
Tether Attachment Points.......... 25 Spark Plugs, Replacing.........171, 173 Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 191
Use During Pregnancy................ 10 Specifications Charts..................... 234 Taking Care of the Unexpected .. 207
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7 Speed Control................................... 48 Tape Player................................. 85, 94
Wearing the Lap Belt.................... 9 Speedometer.................................... 39 Technical Descriptions
Seats, Adjusting the......................... 56 SRS Indicator.............................. 16, 37 Anti-lock Brake System............ 236
Serial Number................................ 232 START (Ignition Key Position) ..... 52 Emission Control Systems........ 240
Service Intervals............................ 142 Starting the Engine........................ 119 Three Way Catalytic
Service Manual.............................. 249 In Cold Weather at High Converter................................ 242
Service Station Procedures .......... 108 Altitude................................... 120 Tire Information........................ 237
Setting the Clock............................. 67 With a Dead Battery ................. 216 Temperature Gauge........................ 40
Shifting Steam Coming from Engine......... 219 Tether Attachment Points.............. 25
The Automatic Steering Wheel Three Way Catalytic Converter... 242
Transmission.......................... 123 Adjustment................................... 46 Time, Setting the............................. 67
The 5-speecl Manual Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 52 Tire Chains..................................... 186
Transmission.......................... 121 Stereo Sound System ...................... 81 Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 209
Shift Lever Position Indicator...... 123 Storing Your Car............................ 197
CONTINUED
Index
Tires................................................ 181 Trip Meter........................................ 39 Viscosity, Oil................................... 151

Air Pressure............................... 182 Trunk................................................. 54
Checking Wear.......................... 183 Opening the.................................. 54
Compact Spare........................... 208 Open Monitor Light.................... 37
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 238 Turn Signals..................................... 43 Warning Beepers
Inflation....................................... 181 Key in Ignition.............................. 52
Inspection................................... 183 Seat Belts...................................... 36
Replacing.................................... 184 WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii
Rotating....................................... 184 Underside, Cleaning...................... 205 Warning Labels, Location of.... 29, 30
Snow............................................ 186 Unexpected, Taking Care Warranty Coverages..................... 244
Specifications............................. 235 of the........................................... 207 Washer, Windshield
Tools, Tire Changing.................... 209 Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 238 Checking the Fluid Level......... 162
Torn Seat Belts................................ 10 Unleaded Gasoline......................... 106 Operation...................................... 45
Towing Upholstery Cleaning...................... 203 Washing.......................................... 200
A Trailer..................................... 131 Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 154 Waxing and Polishing................... 201
Emergency Wrecker................ 230 Wheels
Transmission Adjusting the Steering................ 46
Checking Fluid Level, Alignment and Balance............. 183
Automatic...................... 163, 164 Vanity Mirror................................... 69 Compact Spare........................... 208
Checking Fluid Level, Vehicle Capacity Load .................. 115 Wrench....................................... 211
Manual.................................... 165 Vehicle Dimensions....................... 234 Windows
Fluid Selection ...................163, 164 Vehicle Identification Number..... 232 Cleaning...................................... 204
Identification Number............... 232 Vehicle Storage.............................. 197 Operating the Power................... 62
Shifting the Automatic.............. 122 Ventilation......................................... 77 Rear, Defogger............................ 45
Shifting the Manual................... 121 VIN.................................................. 232 Windshield
Treadwear...................................... 238 Vinyl Cleaning................................ 203 Cleaning........................................ 44
Index
Defroster...................................... 80
Wipers, Windshield
Changing Blades........................ 178
Operation...................................... 44
Worn Tires..................................... 183
Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 230
Gas Station Information
Gasoline: Tire Pressure (measured cold): Other Tire Information:

UNLEADED gasoline (DX, LX, EX, EX-R) See label on the driver's door-
Pump octane of 86 or higher Front/Rear: jamb.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 220 kPa (2.2 k g / c m 2 , 32 psi)
64.5 l (17.04 US g a l , 14.19 Imp gal) (LX V-6, EX V-6, EX-R V-6) 5-speed Manual Transmission Oil:
Front: SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity
Recommended Engine Oil: 220 kPa (2.2 k g / c m 2 , 32 psi) API SF or SG grade recom-
API SG or SH grade Rear: mended
"Energy Conserving II" oil 200 kPa (2.0 k g / c m 2 , 29 psi)
SAE 5W-30 viscosity Spare Tire Pressure: Capacity:
420 kPa (4.2 k g / c m 2 , 60 psi) 1.9 l (2.0 US q t , 1.7 Imp qt)
Engine Oil Capacity: Tire Size (Front and Rear):
including filter (US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) Automatic Transmission Fluid:
(US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) P185/70R14 87S Honda Premium Formula Auto-
3.8 l (4.0 US q t , 3.3 Imp qt) (US: EX, Canada: EX-R) matic Transmission Fluid or an
(US: EX, Canada: EX-R) 195/60R15 88H equivalent DEXRON® II type Auto-
4.3 l (4.5 US qt, 3.8 Imp qt) (US: LX V-6, EX V-6, Canada: EX matic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
(US: LX V-6, EX V-6, Canada: EX V-6, EX-R V-6)
V-6, EX-R V-6) 205/60R15 91V Capacity:
4.4 l (4.6 US q t , 3.9 Imp qt) Spare Tire: (4 cylinder cars)
without filter (4 cylinder cars without ABS) 2.4 l (2.5 US q t , 2.1 Imp qt)
(US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) T115/70D14 (6 cylinder cars)
3.5 l (3.7 US q t , 3.1 Imp qt) (4 cylinder cars with ABS) 2.9 l (3.1 US q t , 2.6 Imp qt)
(US: EX, LX V-6, EX V-6, Canada: T125/70D 15
EX-R, EX V-6, EX-R V-6) (6 cylinder cars)
4.0 l (4.2 US q t , 3.5 Imp qt) T135/90D15

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1995 Accord Sedan Online Reference Owner's Manual

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

You CAN be KILLED or

You CAN be HURT if you don't

Driver and Passenger Safety

By following these guidelines, you

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt Lap Belt

Driver and Passenger Safety

Wearing Seat Belts Properly Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt

Not wearing a seat belt properly

Be sure you and your

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Wearing the Lap Belt

Driver and Passenger Safety

If a seat belt is worn during a crash,

Driver and Passenger Safety

Your car is equipped with a DRIVER'S INDICATOR

The main components in your SRS

One airbag in the steering wheel

Sensors that can detect a severe

Driver and Passenger Safety

After inflating, the airbags will

Driver and Passenger Safety

Important Facts About Airbags Frontal collision range

Injuries, including fatal injuries, can

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

We strongly recommend that you do

Driver and Passenger Safety

When the car is ten years old.

Driver and Passenger Safety

System Service Precautions Scrapping an entire car that has

Tell anyone who works on your car

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Where Should Children Sit?

Children depend on adults to protect We strongly recommend that you do

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Several styles of booster seats are

Driver and Passenger Safety

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

2. Insert the latch plate into the

Driver and Passenger Safety

Canadian Models Canadian Cars Storing a Child Seat

If you are not sure how to install the

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.

Avoid any enclosed areas or

Driver and Passenger Safety

If a label comes off or becomes hard RADIATOR CAP

Driver and Passenger Safety

6 Cylinder Models BATTERY

If a label conies off or becomes hard

Driver and Passenger Safety

Instruments and Controls

MIRROR DIGITAL CLOCK HEATING/COOLING