Honda 2020 PIONEER 1000 Sxs Rec/utility

User manual Motor Sport

Before Driving

Protective Apparel

To help prevent head injury from striking an occupant protective structure (OPS) or other hard object, we recommend that occupants always wear a helmet secured with a chin strap.

To protect the eyes from brush and flying objects, we also recommend that occupants wear impact-resistant goggles or a face shield.

For your safety, we also recommend that you always wear boots, gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket whenever you drive.

Get to Know Your Vehicle

Because all vehicles have unique characteristics, it’s important to learn how this one operates and handles. We recommend that you take time to practice using the different controls, and get accustomed to how the vehicle accelerates, brakes, and turns in different driving modes, on different surfaces, and on different terrain conditions.

Don’t Drink & Drive

It’s well known that alcohol and drugs can seriously affect a person’s judgment, perception, and ability to safely operate any vehicle. We therefore strongly recommend that you do not drive, or let anyone else drive or ride in this vehicle, after consuming alcohol or drugs.

WARNING

Operating this vehicle after consuming alcohol or drugs can result in a crash in which you or others can be seriously injured or killed. Never drive this vehicle after consuming alcohol or drugs.

Is Your Vehicle Ready to Drive?

Before driving your Honda SXS, it’s important to inspect the vehicle and correct any problem you find. A pre-drive inspection is a must, not only for safety, but because having a breakdown can be a major inconvenience.

If your vehicle has overturned or been involved in a crash, do not drive it until it has been inspected by your dealer. There may be damage or other problems you cannot see.

WARNING

Improperly maintaining this vehicle or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you or someone else can be seriously hurt or killed. Always perform a pre-drive inspection and correct any problems before you operate the vehicle.

Pre-drive Inspection

Check the following items before driving your Honda SXS: Pre-drive Inspection

Oil Level

Check the engine and sub-transmission oil levels and add oil, if needed (pages 153, 163). Also check under the vehicle for leaks.

Coolant

Check the coolant level (page 172). If it is low, add a 50/50 mixture of silicate-free coolant and distilled water. Check for leaks

Fuel Level

Check the fuel gauge (page 28) and add fuel, if needed (page 148). Make sure the fuel fill cap is secure. Also check for the smell of fuel or fumes - if you smell any fuel, turn the ignition switch to OFF (w) immediately, and see your dealer

Brake Fluid

Check the level (page 199). If it is near MIN, check the brake pads for wear (page 201). If the brake pads are within the specification, check for leaks in the braking system (page 198).

Tires

Check the air pressure of all tires and inflate them to the proper pressure (page 205). Also inspect the tires for damage or excessive wear (page 207). If necessary see your dealer.

Wheels

Make sure the wheel nuts are properly tightened and the wheels are not cracked or deformed (page 212).

Driveshafts

Inspect the driveshafts and boots for damage, tears, or leaks and see your dealer if any are found.

Steering Gearbox and Boots

Check the steering to make sure it turns smoothly in both directions. Check for any tears in the boots. If any tears are found, see your dealer.

Underbody

Check for and remove any debris stuck in the underbody; take extra care in your inspection if the vehicle was last driven in deep grass, brush, a wetland, or flooded area. Check for any visible dents or cracks. If any dents or cracks are found, see your dealer.

Suspension

Check the condition of all suspension components. Be sure to look for bends or oil leaks in the cushion damper. Check for tears in the boots of the front arm ball joint.

Lights

Make sure the headlights, taillights, and brake lights are working properly.

Controls

Check that all driving controls, including the accelerator pedal, brake pedal, drive mode select lever, shift select lever, and shift paddles are operating smoothly.

Tie-rod Ends

The wheels need to be lifted off the ground to correctly check the tie-rod ends, so it cannot be done in the pre-drive inspection. To have the tie-rod ends properly inspected, see your dealer.

Cargo

Be sure items in the cargo bed are within the cargo limit and are properly secured to prevent shifting (pages 95, 96).

Seat Belts

Make sure all seat belts are in good condition and operate properly. The seat belts must move smoothly when pulled out, and retract on their own when released. The latch plates should click securely into the buckles and release when the release buttons are pushed firmly.

Side Nets

Make sure all side nets and their mounting hardware are in good condition and that they latch and tighten securely.

Exhaust System

Make sure no materials or debris are sticking to, or accumulating around, the exhaust system. If any such debris is found, remove it so there's no chance for it to catch on fire. Start the engine and listen for any leaks.

Loading Cargo

Loading Guidelines

• Make sure the tires are properly inflated (page 205).
• Place all items on the floor of the cargo bed, and as far forward and centered as possible.
• Use the tie-down hooks (page 80) to secure any items that could shift position while you are driving.
• Do not let items extend over the side rails, as they could get caught on something.
• Be aware that carrying tall, heavy items will significantly raise the vehicle’s center of gravity, increasing the chance of a rollover.
• Never let a passenger ride in the cargo area or hang onto the side of the vehicle, even for a short distance. The person could be thrown off the vehicle or cause a crash.
• Before driving with heavy cargo or towing heavy loads, shift the shift select lever into low-range (L) position.

Your vehicle can pull a trailer as well as carry cargo, provided you follow the load limits and guidelines below.

Checking Loads

Total Trailer Weight

Check the weight of a fully loaded trailer or estimate the total by adding the weight of the trailer (as quoted by the trailer maker) with the weight of all items placed in or on the trailer.

Towing a Trailer

To achieve a proper tongue load, start by placing 60 percent of the load toward the front of the trailer and 40 percent toward the rear, then readjust the load as needed.

Loading a Trailer

• Always use a proper trailer hitch. Do not tow by attaching a rope or cable to the vehicle’s frame.
• Secure all items inside the trailer so they cannot shift while driving.
• Before driving with heavy cargo or towing heavy loads, shift the shift select lever into low-range (L) position.

WARNING

Exceeding a load limit or improperly towing a trailer can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and towing guidelines in this owner’s manual.

Basic Operation & Driving Guidelines

Basic Operation

Starting & Stopping the Engine

For safety, we recommend that you start the engine in a wellventilated area. If that is not practical, move the vehicle outdoors as soon as possible. The engine’s exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can cause illness and even death.

WARNING Running the engine of your vehicle while in an enclosed or even partially enclosed area can cause a rapid build-up of toxic carbon monoxide gas. Breathing this colorless, odorless gas can quickly cause unconsciousness and lead to death. Only run your vehicle's engine when it is located in a well ventilated area outdoors.

The starter motor will operate when the shift select lever is in the park (P) or neutral (N) position, or the brake pedal is pressed. You should do the following checks and adjustments before you drive your vehicle.

Before START:

1. Make sure the doors, side nets, tailgate and front hood are securely closed.
2. Make sure the cargo bed is securely lowered.
3. Check that any items you may be carrying are stored properly or fastened down securely.
4. Fasten your seat belt. Check that any passenger has fastened their seat belt as well.
5. When you start the engine, check the indicators in the instrument panel.

Starting the engine:

1. Move the shift select lever into the park (P) position.
2. Press on the brake pedal.
3. To start the engine, without touching the accelerator pedal, insert the key and turn the ignition switch to the START (p) position. Immediately after the engine starts, let go of the key. The switch returns to the ON (q) position. Do not hold the key in the START (p) position for more than 5 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start after 5 seconds, turn the key back to the OFF (w) position and wait about 10 seconds before turning it to START (p) again.
4. If the engine does not start within 5 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 3 with the accelerator pedal pressed halfway down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.
5. If the engine fails to start, press the accelerator pedal all the way down, and hold it there while starting to clear flooding. If the engine still does not start, return to step 3.

To stop the engine, turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position. Remember to shift into the park (P) position and remove the key if you plan to leave the vehicle.

Shifting Gears

You can move forward or in reverse by shifting the shift select lever from P or N, to R, H, or L. Your Honda SXS is equipped with a dual clutch transmission, which is an automatically controlled 6-speed transmission.

When the shift select lever is in the high-range (H) or low-range (L) position, you can switch between AT mode and MT mode by pressing the AT/MT switch. In AT mode, you can use the shift paddles to temporarily select a gear.

To avoid damaging the transmission, move the shift select lever only when the vehicle is stopped and the engine is idling. Select a driving mode appropriate for your driving environment and driver visibility.

NOTICE

Under extreme constant high load usage, the temperature of the clutch can rise over the allowable temperature limit for the clutch material. In this usage condition, clutch slippage and burning may occur.

avoid damaging the clutch, follow the proper usage of the subtransmission dual range as described. To prevent clutch damage, do not use the throttle to hold the vehicle stationary on an incline or try to tow an immovable object.

Shift Position and Meter Display

Driving by operating the shift paddles while MT mode is selected

To upshift the transmission, pull the right side upshift paddle once. To downshift the transmission, pull the left side downshift paddle once.

GEAR SHIFTING SEQUENCE

After starting the engine and letting it warm up, follow this procedure:

1. Press the brake pedal.
2. With the throttle closed, select the shift select lever into highrange (H) or low-range (L) position, and then select MT mode by pressing the AT/MT switch.
3. Release pressure from the brake pedal and increase engine speed by gradually pressing the accelerator pedal.
4. When speed increases, shift to 2nd gear by pulling the upshift paddle once.
5. Repeat this sequence to progressively upshift to 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th (top) gear.
6. To downshift, pull the downshift paddle once.

Selecting a Drive Mode

Turf

This mode supplies power to the rear wheels only. This mode is for driving on turf.

2WD

This mode supplies power to the rear wheels, and locks the rear differential. This mode is best for surfaces that provide good traction.

4WD (SXS1000M3P/M3D/M5P/M5D)

This mode supplies power to the front and rear wheels, and locks the rear differential.

Steering will require slightly more effort than with 2WD. This mode is recommended for driving on surfaces that provide relatively poor traction.

4WD Diff Lock (SXS1000M3P/M3D/M5P/M5D)

This mode supplies power to the front and rear wheels, and locks the rear and front differential.

As a result, steering will require extra space and effort. Select this mode to maximize available traction.

I - 4WD (SXS1000M3L/M5L)

This mode supplies power to the front and rear wheels, and locks the rear differential. In addition, Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) will work to enhance vehicle stability in slippery conditions.

Brake Traction Control System (BTCS):

BTCS applies the front brake in slippery conditions to help prevent loss of traction due to wheel spin when applying the accelerator pedal.

When applying the brake while BTCS is operating, the brake pedal will have a flutter feel. This is normal.

Before using the drive mode select lever to change from one mode to another, be sure the vehicle is stopped and the engine is idling. See page 44 for additional information.

Parking

SXS1000M3P/M3D/M3L/M5L

Look for a clear, level parking area with a firm surface. Avoid parking on a slope or on loose or slippery surfaces, if possible. If you must park on a slope, block the wheels to help keep the vehicle from sliding.

After bringing your vehicle to a stop:

1. Keep your foot on the brake pedal while you shift into the park (P) position.
2. Slowly release the brake pedal.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position, and remove the key.

SXS1000M5P/M5D

The SXS1000M5P/M5D is equipped with an auto leveling rear shock absorber. (See page 194 for more information)

Look for a clear, level parking area with a firm surface. Parking on top of obstructions or terrain features taller than about 7.9 inches (200 mm) could result in the SXS1000 becoming stuck if the cargo bed is loaded and the vehicle settles (up to 4.5 inches [114 mm]) while parked. Avoid parking on a slope or on loose or slippery surfaces, if possible. If you must park on a slope, block the wheels to help keep the vehicle from sliding.

After bringing your vehicle to a stop:

1. Keep your foot on the brake pedal while you shift into the park (P) position.
2. Slowly release the brake pedal.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position, and remove the key.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start

Proper operation and maintenance can prevent starting and engine performance problems. In many cases, the cause of the problem may be a simple operational oversight.

If you have a problem starting the engine — or experience poor engine performance — the following information may help you. If you can’t correct the problem, see your dealer.

If your SXS won’t start, listen as you turn the ignition key to the START (p) position. If you don’t hear the starter motor turning, refer to the Starter motor doesn’t operate symptom. If you can hear the starter motor working normally, refer to the Starter motor works, but the engine won’t start symptom.

If the Transmission Is Not Functioning Properly

If the gear position indicator is blinking, perform the following:

1. If you are driving your Honda SXS, stop at a safe place.
2. Shift the shift select lever to the park (P) position.
3. Check the pattern displayed on the gear position indicator, and then perform the following.

“P”, “R”, “N”, “H” or “L” is blinking:

You can drive in either AT mode or MT mode. See your dealer as soon as possible.

“1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “5” or “6” is blinking:

At high-range (H) or low-range (L), you can drive only in the gear position that is blinking. You can also drive in reverse (R).

To avoid damaging the clutch, we recommend that you drive in lowrange (L). The engine brake may not work, so please drive slowly. See your dealer as soon as possible.

“–” is blinking:

Check for SXS failure again. Perform the following procedure.

1. Check that the shift select lever is at the park (P) position.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the START (p) position and then start the engine.
4. Check the gear position indicator display, and then perform the following.

The gear position (“1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “5” or “6”) is blinking:

At high-range (H) or low-range (L), you can drive only in the gear position that is blinking. You can also drive in reverse (R).

To avoid damaging the clutch, we recommend that you drive in lowrange (L). The engine brake may not work, so please drive slowly. See your dealer as soon as possible.

If “-” continues to blink:

Change the gear position by using the gear change tool, and tighten the emergency valve. Perform the following procedure.

1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position, and then stop the engine.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON (q) position. Do not turn it to the START (p) position.
3. Take out the gear change tool from the tool kit (page 137).
4. Lift the cargo bed (page 81).
5. Remove the rear mudguard lid (page 143).
6. Set the gear change tool of the spindle which is located on the crankcase.
7. To downshift, turn the gear change tool counterclockwise. To upshift, turn the gear change tool clockwise. When you upshift one position from the lowest downshift position, “E” blinks in the gear position indicator.

If you cannot shift properly, shift the shift select lever to the highrange (H) position, and while pushing the gear change tool in the direction you want to rotate, rock the vehicle back and forth. When the transmission shifts, return the shift select lever to the park (P) position.

UNDER CARGO BED

8. Return the gear change tool to the tool kit.

9.Check that “E” is blinking. Next, tighten the emergency valve. Proceed to “E” is blinking.

If “–” is not displayed in the gear position indicator and you change the gear position by using the gear change tool, the DCT system will automatically stop. To reactivate the system, turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position, and then turn it back to the ON (q) position.

“E” is blinking:

Tighten the emergency valve. Perform the following procedure.

1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position, and then stop the engine.
2. Remove the rear mudguard lid (page 143).
3. Loosen the bolt and release the lock plate, and turn the emergency valve all the way in.

UNDER CARGO BED

4. Tighten the bolt and the lock plate.

5. Install the rear mudguard lid.

6. Turn the ignition switch to the START ( ll ) position, and then start the engine.

7.Check that the gear position（“1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “5” or “6”） is blinking.

8.At high-range (H) or low-range (L), you can drive only in the gear position that is blinking. You can also drive in reverse (R). To avoid damaging the clutch, we recommend that you drive in low-range (L). The engine brake may not work, so please drive slowly. See your dealer as soon as possible.

• When in the reverse (R), high-range (H), or low-range (L) position, low oil temperatures will cause the vehicle to move slowly. Shift into the park (P) position and warm up the engine.
• When restarting the engine, although ”E” stops blinking, the gear position（“1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “5” or “6”）blinks, and the low oil pressure indicator comes on, you can drive the vehicle.

If You Have a Flat Tire

How you handle a flat tire on the trail depends on how serious the tire damage is, and what tools and supplies you have with you.

If you have a slow leak or a minor puncture, use the plug method to make a temporary repair. (The plug method is applied from the outside of the tire and is the same as that for conventional tubeless tires.)

A plug-type repair kit, available at most auto parts stores or service stations, provides a plug, an installation tool, tire cement, and an instruction sheet. Follow the instructions provided with the repair kit to make a temporary repair.

As soon as possible, have the tire permanently repaired by your dealer.

Any tire that cannot be repaired should be replaced.

Whenever the Honda SXS is to be operated far from service facilities or available transportation, we recommend that you carry a tire pump and a repair kit with the vehicle.

If the leak is more serious, or a temporary repair doesn't hold, the tire must be replaced. The tire will also need to be replaced if it is damaged (page 207). Replacing a tire involves removing and reinstalling the wheel (page 246).

If you are unable to repair a flat tire on the trail, you will need to send for help. We strongly recommend that you do not try to drive with a flat tire. The Honda SXS will be hard to handle, and if the tire comes off the rim, it may lock up the wheel and cause you to crash or overturn.

Emergency Wheel Removal/Installation

Refer to Safety Precautions on page 125

Removal

1. Park your Honda SXS on a firm, level surface.
2. Loosen — but do not remove — the wheel nuts.
3. Raise the front (or rear) wheels off the ground (page 146).
4. Remove the wheel nuts.
5. Remove the wheel.
   • Avoid getting grease, oil, or dirt on the disc or pad surfaces when removing and installing each wheel. Any contamination can cause poor brake performance or rapid pad wear after reassembly.

Installation

1. Thoroughly clean hub and wheel.
2. Position the wheel.
3. Position the wheel nuts so that the tapered sides face the wheel rim.
4. Hand-tighten the wheel nuts on the wheel, then lower the Honda SXS to the ground before tightening the nuts in a crisscross (rather than circular) pattern to the specified torque: 80 lbf·ft (108 N·m, 11 kgf·m)

If a torque wrench was not used for installation, see your dealer as soon as possible to verify proper assembly. Improper assembly may lead to loss of control and braking capability

If the High Coolant Temperature Indicator Lights

Normally, the high coolant temperature indicator will only light momentarily when you turn the ignition ON (q). Occasionally, it may flicker at or near idling speed.

High coolant temperature may be caused by restriction of air flow to the radiator (such as mud caked on the radiator), extended idling, an oil leak, a coolant leak, a low oil level, a low coolant level, or extended operation under adverse conditions. If the all sections of the coolant temperature gauge including segment H and high coolant temperature indicator are on while you’re driving, don’t ignore it. Pull safely to a stop. Stop the engine as soon as it’s safe to do so, and let it cool.

NOTICE

Continuing to drive with high coolant temperature or an overheated engine can cause serious engine damage.

• A steaming engine indicates a coolant leak. Shut the engine off and wait until the steaming stops. Look for a leak, but don’t touch the engine or radiator system. Let everything cool off first.
• Check for any restriction of air flow to the radiator.
• If there’s no obvious problem, leave the engine on so the fan and coolant circulating system can continue working. Monitor the coolant temperature gauge and high coolant temperature indicator. The coolant temperature gauge and indicator may return to normal after a brief stop with no load on the engine.
• Check the radiator fan.

If the fan is not working, turn the engine off. Open the fuse box (page 251) and check the radiator fan fuse. If the fuse is blown, replace it with the proper (same rating) spare fuse. Start the engine. If the all sections of the coolant temperature gauge including segment H and high coolant temperature indicator stay on, turn the engine off.

If the radiator fan is working, visually check the coolant level in the reserve tank, located under the front hood. It isn’t necessary to touch the radiator system.

• If the reserve tank is low or empty, don’t drive without adding coolant (page 172). After adding coolant, turn the engine on and check the coolant temperature gauge and high coolant temperature indicator.

If the indicator doesn’t turn off, do not drive. The engine needs repair.

Transport your Honda SXS to a dealer (page 228).

If the temperature drops to normal, check the coolant level. If it has gone down, add more coolant.

• Check for an oil leak.
• Check the oil level. If necessary, add the recommended oil page 151) to the upper level mark. If you must leave your Honda SXS to get oil, secure it as much as possible.
• Start the engine, and check that the coolant temperature gauge and high coolant temperature indicator are normal.

If the coolant temperature gauge and indicator return to normal, resume driving. If there is a leak, do not drive the SXS until the leak is repaired by your dealer.

If there’s a mild coolant leak, you can drive for a while, carefully watching the coolant temperature gauge and indicator. Be prepared to stop and add more coolant or water. If the leak is bad, transport your Honda SXS to your dealer (page 228).

If a Fuse Blows

All of the electrical circuits on your Honda SXS have fuses to protect them from damage caused by excess current flow (short circuit or overload).

If something electrical on your Honda SXS stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse.

Check all the fuses before looking elsewhere for another possible cause of the problem. Replace any blown fuses and check component operation.

The main fuse and circuit fuses are located in the fuse box under the front hood. The electric power steering (EPS) fuse is located under the front hood.

The brake traction control system (BTCS) fuse is located under the front hood. (SXS1000M3L/M5L only)

Recommended Fuses

Main Fuse Access

1. To prevent an accidental short circuit, turn the ignition switch OFF (w) before checking or replacing the fuses.
2. Remove the front hood (page 139).
3. Remove the fuse box cover.
4. To access the main fuse, remove the bolts, and then pull the main fuse out. If the main fuse is blown, see your dealer for this service.

Circuit Fuse Access

5. To check or replace a circuit fuse, pull the fuses out one by one with the fuse puller located behind the fuse box cover. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a spare fuse of the same rating.

If you do not have a replacement fuse with the proper rating for the circuit, install one with a lower rating.

NOTICE Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chance of damage to the electrical system.

6. Install the fuse box cover.

7. Install the front hood.

Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fuse Access

1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF (w) before checking the fuse.
2. Remove the front hood (page 139).
3. To access the EPS fuse, remove the fuse cover. If the EPS fuse is blown, see your dealer for this service.
4. Install the fuse cover.
5. Install the front hood.

Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) Fuse Access (SXS1000M3L/ M5L only)

1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF (w) before checking the fuse.
2. Remove the front hood (page 139).
3. To access the BTCS fuse, remove the fuse cover. If the BTCS fuse is blown, see your dealer for this service.
4. Install the fuse cover.
5. Install the front hood.

If you do not have a spare fuse and you cannot drive the Honda SXS without fixing the problem, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits that you can do without temporarily.

If you replace a blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating, replace the fuse with the correct rating as soon as you can. Also remember to replace any spare fuses that were installed.

If the replacement fuse of the same rating burns out in a short time, there is probably a serious electrical problem on your Honda SXS. Leave the blown fuse in that circuit and have your Honda SXS checked by your dealer

If You Crash

Personal safety is your first priority after a crash. If you or anyone else has been injured, take time to assess the severity of the injuries and whether it is safe to continue driving. If you cannot drive safely, send someone for help. Do not drive if you will risk further injury.

If you decide that you are capable of driving your SXS safely, first evaluate the condition of your SXS. If the engine is still running, turn it off and look it over carefully; inspect it for fluid leaks, check the tightness of critical nuts and bolts securing such parts as the steering wheel, control levers, brakes, and wheels.

If there is minor damage, or you are unsure about possible damage but decide to try driving the Honda SXS back to your base, drive slowly and cautiously.

Sometimes, crash damage is hidden or not immediately apparent. When you get home, thoroughly check your Honda SXS and correct any problems you find. Also, be sure to have your dealer check the frame suspension, seat belts, and occupant protective structure after any serious crash.

If You Lose Your Key

Be sure to record your key number. Store the spare key and recorded key number in a safe location. You’ll need this number to have a duplicate key made.

If you lose your key and aren’t carrying a duplicate, either get your spare or have one made. If you don’t know your key number, call the dealer where you purchased your Honda SXS. They may have it listed in their records. If they don’t, transport your Honda SXS to them or the nearest dealer. The dealer will probably have to remove the ignition switch assembly to find the key number so they can make a key for you.

If the Battery Is Low

If the battery is low, the starter motor doesn’t operate or works poorly, and you can’t start the engine. Jump starting your Honda SXS should be avoided. Instead, the battery should be removed and recharged (page 218). If you can’t charge the battery or it appears unable to hold a charge, contact your dealer.

WARNING

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation. A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you. Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled mechanic do the battery maintenance.

NOTICE

If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can freeze. Attempting to jump start with a frozen battery can cause it to rupture.

Use a battery that is the same as the one in the vehicle or an equivalent.

1. To prevent an accidental short circuit, turn the ignition switch OFF (w).
2. Remove the front hood (page 139).
3. Using a fully charged 12-volt battery, connect the positive (+) side of the jumper cable to the charged battery, and connect the positive (+) side on the other end of the jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal of vehicle battery.
4. Connect the negative (-) side of the jumper cable to the charged battery, and connect the negative (-) side on the other end of the jumper cable to the front final gear case bracket.
5. After starting the engine, remove the negative (-) sides of the jumper cable from the vehicle and the battery. Then remove the positive (+) sides of the jumper cable from the vehicle battery and the charged battery.
6. Close the rubber dust cover and install the front seat.
   • Do not let the positive (+) side of the jumper cable touch on the negative (-) terminal.
   • If the jumper cable is connected to the battery with the polarity reversed, the battery can explode or the electrical system will be seriously damaged.

If a Component Fails

The brake lines, control cables, and other components can be damaged as you drive in dense brush or over rocky terrain. Making a trailside repair depends on how serious the damage is and what tools and supplies you have with you.

• If any component in the brake system is damaged, you may have reduced or limited stopping power. If you decide to continue driving back to your base, do so cautiously and at a very low speed.
• If you damage the accelerator cable or other critical component, your Honda SXS may be unsafe to drive. Carefully assess the damage and make any repairs that you can. But if there is any doubt, it’s best to be conservative and safe.

If your Honda SXS becomes immersed in water (water level is above the floorboard), inspect the vehicle to avoid severe engine damage by following these steps:

1. Move your Honda SXS to dry land or at the very least, to a water level below 10 inches (25 cm).
2. Check the sub air cleaner condition.

– If the sub air cleaner is wet, water may have entered the air intake system. Do not start engine.

– If the sub air cleaner is dry, the engine can be restarted.

3. Take your Honda SXS to your dealer for service as soon as possible, even if you succeeded in starting the engine.

If the Vehicle Speed Does Not Exceed 15 mph (24 km/h)

If the driver's side seat belt is not latched properly, the maximum vehicle speed will be limited to no more than 15 mph (24 km/h) by the seat belt speed limiting system (page 68).

Also the seat belt indicator and speedometer digits blink.

Make sure that the driver's side seat belt is latched properly. If the problem persists, see your dealer.

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