2003 Civic Hybrid 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
Your Car at a Glance ......................................................................................................................................2
Driver and Passenger Safety .......................................................................................................................5
Proper use and care of your car's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls...........................................................................................................................57
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features.......................................................................................................107
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving .............................................................................................................................................143
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new car, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving...........................................................................................................................................................159
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance.................................................................................................................................................181
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your car to the dealer.
Appearance Care.........................................................................................................................................245
Tips on cleaning and protecting your car. Things to look for if your car ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected...............................................................................................................255
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Information...............................................................................................................................285
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)......................................................................299
A summary of the warranties covering your new Honda, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...............................................................................................................303
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index ................................................................................................................................................................. I
Service Information Summary
A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
This Owner’s Manual should be
considered a permanent part of the
car,andshouldremainwiththecar
when it is sold.
The information and specifications
included in this publication were in
effect at the time of approval for
printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
reserves the right, however, to
discontinue or change specifications
or design at any time without notice
and without incurring any obligation
whatsoever.
This Owner’s Manual covers all
models of the Civic Hybrid. You may
find descriptions of equipment and
features that are not on your
particular model.
Owner’s Identification
OWNER
ADDRESS
V. I. N.
DELIVERY DATE
DEALER NAME DEALER NO.
ADDRESS
OWNER’S SIGNATURE
DEALER’S SIGNATURE
STREET
CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/
POSTAL CODE
(Date sold to original retail purchaser)
STREET
CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/
POSTAL CODE
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Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty booklet
thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights
and responsibilities.
As you read this manual, you will
find information that is preceded by
a symbol. This
information is intended to help you
avoid damage to your Honda, other
property, or the environment.
One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is to
read this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls and
convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner’s manual in your car so you
can refer to it at any time.
Maintaining your car according to the schedules given in this manual helps
to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. When
your car needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer’s staff is
specially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Honda. Your
Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer
any questions and concerns.
California Proposition 65 Warning
This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Congratulations! Your selection of a 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid was a wise
investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.
Introduction
WARNING:
i
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−
−
−
−
−
−
To help you make informed
decisions about safety, we have
provided operating procedures and
other information on labels and in
this manual. This information alerts
you to potential hazards that could
hurt you or others.
You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms,
including:
These signal words mean:
preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of
three signal words: , , or .
such as Driver and Passenger Safety.
This entire book is filled with important safety information please read it
carefully.
such as Important Safety Reminders or Important
Safety Precautions.
Your safety, and the safety of others,
is very important. And operating this
car safely is an important
responsibility.
Of course, it is not practical or
possible to warn you about all the
hazards associated with operating or
maintaining your car. You must use
your own good judgement.
on the car.
how to use this car correctly and safely.
AFewWordsAboutSafety
Safety Messages
Safety Section
Safety Headings
Safety Labels
Instructions
DANGER WARNING CAUTION
ii
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow
instructions.
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Your Car at a Glance
2
(P. 10, 48)
AIRBAGS
POWER
DOOR LOCK
SWITCH
(P. 87)
POWER WINDOW
SWITCHES
(P. 97)
FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE
(P. 145)
TRUNK RELEASE
(P. 92)
HOOD RELEASE
HANDLE
(P. 146)
(P. 166)
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (CVT)
MANUAL TRANSMISSION
(P. 162)
(P. 108)
HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS
(P. 123)
DIGITAL CLOCK
(P. 118)
AUDIO SYSTEM
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4
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This section gives you important
information about how to protect
yourself and your passengers. It
shows you how to use seat belts
properly. It explains your Supple-
mental Restraint System. And it tells
you how to properly restrain infants
andchildreninyourcar.
.........Important Safety Precautions . 6
.............Your Car’s Safety Features . 7
.......................................Seat Belts . 8
.........................................Airbags . 10
.....................Seats & Seat-Backs . 11
..........................Head Restraints . 11
..................................Door Locks . 11
........Pre-Drive Safety Checklist . 12
............................Protecting Adults . 13
.....1. Close and Lock the Doors . 13
...........2. Adjust the Front Seats . 13
............3. Adjust the Seat-Backs . 15
...4. Adjust the Head Restraints . 16
5. Fasten and Position the Seat
.....................................Belts . 16
....6. Adjust the Steering Wheel . 18
7. Maintain a Proper Sitting
................................Position . 19
.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 20
...Additional Safety Precautions . 20
........................Protecting Children . 22
All Children Must Be
...............................Restrained . 22
Children Should Sit in the Back
...........................................Seat . 23
The Passenger’s Front Airbag
Poses Serious Risks to
...............................Children . 23
If You Must Drive with Several
...................................Children . 25
If a Child Requires Close
..................................Attention . 26
...Additional Safety Precautions . 26
General Guidelines for Using
...............................Child Seats . 27
.......................Protecting Infants . 31
.........Protecting Small Children . 35
.......Protecting Larger Children . 38
Using Child Seats with
.....................................Tethers . 42
.............................Using LATCH . 43
Additional Information About Your
.................................Seat Belts . 45
..Seat Belt System Components . 45
......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 45
Automatic Seat Belt
...............................Tensioners . 46
...............Seat Belt Maintenance . 47
Additional Information About
...........................Your Airbags . 48
........................SRS Components . 48
How Your Front Airbags
.........................................Work . 48
...How Your Side Airbags Work . 50
How the SRS Indicator Light
.......................................Works . 51
How the Side Airbag Cutoff
...........Indicator Light Works . 52
.............................Airbag Service . 53
...Additional Safety Precautions . 53
.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 54
...................................Safety Labels . 55
Driver and Passenger Safety
Driver and Passenger Safety
5
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Excessive speed is a major factor in
crash injuries and deaths. Generally,
the higher the speed the greater the
risk, but serious accidents can also
occur at lower speeds. Never drive
faster than is safe for current
conditions, regardless of the
maximum speed posted.
While airbags can save lives, they
can cause serious or fatal injuries to
occupants who sit too close to them,
or are not properly restrained.
Infants, young children, and short
adults are at the greatest risk. Be
sure to follow all instructions and
warnings in this manual. (See page
.)
Having a tire blowout or a
mechanical failure can be extremely
hazardous. To reduce the possibility
of such problems, check your tire
pressures and condition frequently,
and perform all regularly scheduled
maintenance. (See page .)
You’ll find many safety
recommendations throughout this
section, and throughout this manual.
Therecommendationsonthispage
are the ones we consider to be the
most important.
A seat belt is your best protection in
all types of collisions. Airbags
supplement seat belts, but airbags
are designed to inflate only in a
moderate to severe frontal collision.
So even though your car is equipped
with airbags, make sure you and
your passengers always wear your
seat belts, and wear them properly.
(See page .)
Alcohol and driving don’t mix. Even
one drink can reduce your ability to
respond to changing conditions, and
your reaction time gets worse with
every additional drink. So don’t drink
and drive, and don’t let your friends
drink and drive, either.
Children are safest when they are
properly restrained in the back seat,
notthefrontseat.Achildwhoistoo
smallforaseatbeltmustbeproperly
restrained in a child safety seat. (See
page .)
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186
Driver and Passenger Safety
Important Safety Precautions
Always Wear Your Seat Belt
Be Aware of Airbag Hazards Control Your Speed
Restrain All Children
Keep Your Car in Safe Condition
Don’t Drink and Drive
6
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Table of Contents
Your car is equipped with many
features that work together to
protect you and your passengers
during a crash.
Some safety features do not require
anyactiononyourpart.These
include a strong steel framework
that forms a safety cage around the
passenger compartment; front and
rear crush zones that are designed to
crumple and absorb energy during a
crash; a collapsible steering column;
and seat belt tensioners that
automatically tighten the front seat
belts in the event of a crash.
CONTINUED
Driver and Passenger Safety
Your Car’s Safety Features
7
(1) Safety Cage
(2) Crush Zone
(3) Seats & Seat-Backs
(4) Head Restraints
(5) Collapsible Steering Column
(6) Seat Belts
(7) Front Airbags
(8) Side Airbags
(Optional for U.S. models only)
(9) Seat Belt Tensioners
(10) Door Locks
(1)(10)
(8)
(7)
(5)
(2)
(7)
(9)
(2)
(8)
(6)(4)(3)
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Table of Contents
Foryoursafety,andthesafetyof
your passengers, your car is
equipped with seat belts in all seating
positions.
These safety features are designed
to reduce the severity of injuries in a
crash. However, you and your
passengers can’t take full advantage
of these safety features unless you
remain sitting in a proper position
and
In fact, some safety
features can contribute to injuries if
they are not used properly.
Your seat belt system also
includes a light on the
instrument panel to remind you and
your passengers to fasten your seat
belts.
Seat belts are the single most
effective safety device for adults and
larger children. (Infants and smaller
children must be properly restrained
in child seats.)
Not wearing a seat belt properly
increases the chance of serious
injury or death in a crash, even
though your car has airbags.
In addition, most states and all
Canadian provinces require you to
wear seat belts.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Your Car’s Safety Features
Seat Belts
always wear your seat belts
properly.
Why Wear Seat Belts
8
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When properly worn, seat belts:
Help protect you in almost every
type of crash, including frontal,
side, and rear impacts and
rollovers.
Help keep you from being thrown
against the inside of the vehicle
and against other occupants.
Keep you from being thrown out
of the vehicle.
Help keep you in a good position
should the airbags ever deploy. A
good position reduces the risk of
injury from an inflating airbag, and
allows you to get the best
advantage from the airbag.
Of course, seat belts cannot
completely protect you in every
crash.Butinmostcases,seatbelts
can reduce your risk of serious
injury.
Always wear
your seat belt, and make sure you
wear it properly.
Keep you connected to the vehicle
so you can take advantage of the
vehicle’s built-in safety features.
What you should do:
Your Car’s Safety Features
Driver and Passenger Safety
9
Not wearing a seat belt properly
increases the chance of serious
injury or death in a crash, even
if you have airbags.
Be sure you and your
passengers always wear seat
belts and wear them properly.
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Table of Contents
Your car also has side airbags to help
protect the upper torso of the driver
or a front seat passenger during a
moderate to severe side impact.
The most important things you need
to know about your airbags are:
Always wear
your seat belt properly, and sit
upright and as far back as possible
from the steering wheel or
dashboard.
To do their job, airbags must
inflate with tremendous force and
speed. So while airbags help save
lives, they can cause minor injuries,
or more serious or even fatal
injuries if occupants are not
properly restrained or sitting
properly.
They are designed to supplement
the seat belts.
Your car has a Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) with dual-
stage, dual-threshold front airbags to
help protect the heads and chests of
the driver and a front seat passenger
during a moderate to severe frontal
collision.
Only on U.S. models equipped with side
airbags.
Airbags
Your Car’s Safety Features
Driver and Passenger Safety
What you should do:
Airbags can pose serious hazards.
Airbags offer no protection in rear
impacts, rollovers, or minor
frontal or side collisions.
Airbags do not replace seat belts.
10
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How you adjust your seats and seat-
backs can also affect your safety. For
example, sitting too close to the
steering wheel or dashboard
increases the risk of you or your
passenger being injured by striking
theinsideofthecar,orbyan
inflating airbag.
Reclining a seat-back too far reduces
the seat belt’s effectiveness and
increases the chance that the seat’s
occupant will slide under the seat
belt in a crash and be seriously
injured.
Head restraints can help protect you
from whiplash and other injuries. For
maximum protection, the back of
your head should rest against the
center of the head restraint.
Your car’s seats are designed to keep
you in a comfortable, upright
position so you can take full
advantage of the protection offered
by seat belts and the energy
absorbing materials in the seats.
Move the front
seats as far back as possible, and
keep adjustable seat-backs in an
upright position whenever the car is
moving.
Keeping your doors locked reduces
thechanceofbeingthrownoutof
the car during a crash. It also helps
prevent occupants from accidentally
opening a door and falling out, and
outsiders from unexpectedly opening
your doors.
Seats & Seat-Backs
Head Restraints
Door Locks
What you should do:
Driver and Passenger Safety
Your Car’s Safety Features
11
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Table of Contents
All adults, and children who have
outgrown child safety seats, are
wearing their seat belts and
wearingthemproperly(seepage
).
Any infant or small child is
properly restrained in a child seat
inthebackseat(seepage ).
To make sure you and your
passengers get the maximum
protection from your car’s safety
features, check the following each
time before you drive away:
The rest of this section gives more
detailed information about how you
can maximize your safety.
Remember, however, that no safety
system can prevent all injuries or
deaths that can occur in severe
crashes, even when seat belts are
properly worn and the airbags deploy.
All cargo is properly stored or
secured (see page ).
All doors are closed and locked
(see page ).
Head restraints are properly
adjusted (see page ).
Seat-backs are upright (see page
).
Frontseatoccupantsaresitting
upright and as far back as possible
from the steering wheel and
dashboard (see page ).
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13
13
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15
16
154
Pre-Drive Safety Checklist
Your Car’s Safety Features
Driver and Passenger Safety
12
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Table of Contents
The following pages provide
instructions on how to properly
protect the driver and other adult
occupants.
These instructions also apply to
children who have outgrown child
seats and are large enough to wear
lap/shoulder belts. (See page for
important additional guidelines on
how to properly protect larger
children.)
Any driver who sits too close to the
steering wheel is at risk of being
seriously injured or killed by striking
the steering wheel or from being
struck by an inflating front airbag
during a crash.
After everyone has entered the car,
be sure the doors are closed and
locked.
For safety, locking the doors reduces
the chance that a passenger,
especially a child, will open a door
while the car is moving and
accidentally fall out. It also reduces
the chance of someone being thrown
out of the car during a crash.
For security, locked doors can
prevent an outsider from
unexpectedly opening a door when
you come to a stop.
See page for how to lock the
doors.
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87
CONTINUED
Introduction Adjust the Front SeatsClose and Lock the Doors1. 2.
Protecting Adults
Driver and Passenger Safety
13
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Table of Contents
See page for how to adjust the
front seats.
Once your seat is adjusted correctly,
rock it back and forth to make sure
the seat is locked in position.
Most shorter drivers can get far
enough away from the steering
wheel and still reach the pedals.
However, if you are concerned about
sitting too close, we recommend that
you investigate whether some type
of adaptive equipment may help.
To reduce the chance of injury, wear
your seat belt properly, sit upright
with your back against the seat, and
movetheseatawayfromthe
steering wheel to the farthest
distance that allows you to maintain
full control of the car.
The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration and Transport
Canada recommend that drivers
adjust the seat so the center of the
chest is at least 10 inches (25 cm)
away from the center of the steering
wheel.Alsomakesureyourfront
seat passenger moves the seat as far
to the rear as possible.
94
Protecting Adults
Driver and Passenger Safety
14
Sitting too close to a front
airbag can result in serious
injury or death if the front
airbags inflate.
Always sit as far back from the
front airbags as possible.
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Table of Contents
See page for how to adjust seat-
backs.
A front passenger should also adjust
the seat-back to an upright position,
but as far from the dashboard as
possible. A passenger who sits too
close to the dashboard could be
injured if the front airbag inflates.
Reclining a seat-back so that the
shoulder part of the belt no longer
rests against the occupant’s chest
reduces the protective capability of
the belt. It also increases the chance
of sliding under the belt in a crash
and being seriously injured. The
farther a seat-back is reclined, the
greater the risk of injury.
Adjust the driver’s seat-back to a
comfortable, upright position,
leaving ample space between your
chest and the airbag cover in the
center of the steering wheel. If you
sit too close to the steering wheel,
you could be injured if the front
airbag inflates.
94
Adjust the Seat-Backs3.
Protecting Adults
Driver and Passenger Safety
15
Reclining the seat-back too far
can result in serious injury or
death in a crash.
Adjust the seat-back to an
upright position and sit well
back in the seat.
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Before driving, make sure everyone
with an adjustable head restraint has
properly positioned the head
restraint. The restraint should be
positioned so the back of the
occupant’s head rests against the
center of the restraint. A taller
person should adjust the restraint as
high as possible.
Properly adjusted head restraints
will help protect occupants from
whiplash and other crash injuries.
See page for how to adjust the
head restraints.
Insert the latch plate into the buckle,
then tug on the belt to make sure the
belt is securely latched. Also check
that the belt is not twisted, because a
twisted belt can cause serious
injuries in a crash.
96
Adjust the Head Restraints Fasten and Position the Seat
Belts
4. 5.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Protecting Adults
16
Improperly positioning head
restraints reduces their
effectiveness and you can be
seriously injured in a crash.
Make sure head restraints are
in place and positioned properly
before driving.
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Position the lap part of the belt as
low as possible across your hips,
then pull up on the shoulder part of
the belt so the lap part fits snugly.
This lets your strong pelvic bones
take the force of a crash and reduces
the chance of internal injuries.
If necessary, pull up on the belt again
to remove any slack from the
shoulder part, then check that the
belt rests across the center of your
chest and over your shoulder. This
spreads the forces of a crash over
the strongest bones in your upper
body.
If the seat belt touches or crosses
your neck, or if it crosses your arm
instead of your shoulder, you need to
adjust the seat belt anchor height.
To adjust the height of a front seat
belt anchor, squeeze the two release
buttons and slide the anchor up or
down as needed (it has four
positions).
CONTINUED
Protecting Adults
Driver and Passenger Safety
17
Improperly positioning the seat
belts can cause serious injury
or death in a crash.
Make sure all seat belts are
properly positioned before
driving.
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Adjust the steering wheel, if needed,
so that the wheel points toward your
chest, not toward your face.
Pointing the steering wheel toward
your chest provides optimal
protection from the airbag.
See page for how to adjust the
steering wheel.
If a seat belt does not seem to work
as it should, it may not protect the
occupant in a crash.
Anyone using a seat belt that is
not working properly can be
seriously injured or killed. Have your
Honda dealer check the belt as soon
as possible.
See page for additional
information about your seat belt
system and how to take care of your
belts.
This could cause
very serious injuries in a crash.
45
82
Adjust the Steering Wheel6.
No one should
sit in a seat with an inoperative seat
belt.
Never place the shoulder portion of a
lap/shoulder belt under your arm or
behind your back.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Protecting Adults
18
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After all occupants have adjusted
their seats and put on seat belts, it is
very important that they continue to
sit upright, well back in their seats,
with their feet on the floor, until the
car is parked and the engine is off.
Sitting improperly can increase the
chance of injury during a crash. For
example, if an occupant slouches,
lies down, turns sideways, sits
forward, leans forward or sideways,
or puts one or both feet up, the
chance of injury during a crash is
greatly increased.
In addition, an occupant who is out of
position in the front seat can be
seriously or fatally injured by
striking interior parts of the car, or
by being struck by an inflating front
airbag. Being struck by an inflating
side airbag can result in possibly
serious injuries.
Remember, to get the best
protection from your car’s airbags
and other safety features, you must
sit properly and wear your seat belt
properly.
Maintain a Proper Sitting
Position
7.
Protecting Adults
Driver and Passenger Safety
19
Sitting improperly or out of
position can result in serious
injury or death in a crash.
Always sit upright, well back in
the seat, with your feet on the
floor.
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Because protecting the mother is the
best way to protect her unborn child,
a pregnant woman should always
wear a seat belt whenever she drives
or rides in a vehicle.
Remember to keep the lap portion of
the belt as low as possible across
your hips.
Pregnant women should also sit
upright and as far back as possible
from the steering wheel or
dashboard. This will reduce the risk
of injuries to both the mother and
her unborn child that can be caused
by a crash or an inflating airbag.
Each time you have a check-up, ask
your doctor if it’s okay for you to
drive.
If they do, they
could be very seriously injured in a
crash.
Devices intended to improve
occupant comfort or reposition the
shoulder part of a seat belt can
severely compromise the
protective capability of the seat
belt and increase the chance of
serious injury in a crash.
Advice for Pregnant Women Additional Safety Precautions
Two people should never use the
same seat belt.
Do not put any accessories on seat
belts.
Protecting Adults
Driver and Passenger Safety
20
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Carrying hard or sharp
objects on your lap, or driving with
a pipe or other sharp object in
your mouth, can result in injuries
if your front airbag inflates.
Any object
attached to or placed on the covers
marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG’’ in the
center of the steering wheel and
on top of the dashboard could
interfere with the proper operation
of the airbags. Or, if the airbags
inflate, the objects could be
propelled inside the car and hurt
someone.
If your
hands or arms are close to the
airbag cover in the center of the
steering wheel or on top of the
dashboard, they could be injured if
the front airbag inflates.
If a side airbag
inflates,acupholderorotherhard
object attached on or near the
door could be propelled inside the
car and hurt someone.
Do not place hard or sharp objects
between yourself and a front
airbag.
Do not attach or place objects on
the front airbag covers.
Keep your hands and arms away
from the airbag covers.
On U.S. models with side airbags,
do not attach hard objects on or
near a front door.
Protecting Adults
Driver and Passenger Safety
21
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Table of Contents
(See page
.)
To reduce the number of child
deaths and injuries, every state and
Canadian province requires that
infants and children be restrained
whenever they ride in a vehicle.
Each year, many children are injured
or killed in vehicle crashes because
they are either unrestrained or not
properly restrained. In fact, vehicle
accidents are the number one cause
of death of children ages 12 and
under.
Children depend on adults to protect
them. However, despite their best
intentions, many parents and other
adults may not know how to
protect young passengers.
So if you have children, or if you ever
need to drive with a grandchild or
otherchildreninyourcar,besureto
read this section. (See page
.)
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38
properly
All Children Must Be Restrained
Anychildwhoistoosmalltoweara
seat belt should be properly
restrained in a child seat.
A larger child should always be
restrained with a seat belt and use a
booster seat, if needed.
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
22
Children who are unrestrained
or improperly restrained can be
seriously injured or killed in a
crash.
Any child too small for a seat
belt should be properly
restrained in a child seat. A
larger child should be properly
restrained with a seat belt.
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Front airbags have been designed to
help protect adults in a moderate to
severe frontal collision. To do this,
the passenger’s front airbag is quite
large, and it inflates with tremendous
speed.
If
the airbag inflates, it can hit the back
of the child seat with enough force
to kill or very seriously injure an
infant.
According to accident statistics,
children of all ages and sizes are
safer when they are restrained in the
back seat, not the front seat. The
National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration and Transport
Canada recommend that all children
ages 12 and under be properly
restrained in the back seat.
In the back seat, children are less
likely to be injured by striking hard
interior parts during a collision or
hard braking. Also, children cannot
be injured by an inflating airbag
when they ride in the back.
If you are not wearing a
seat belt in a crash, you could be
thrown forward into the
dashboard and crush the child.
Ifyouarewearingaseatbelt,the
child can be torn from your arms
during a crash. For example, if
your car crashes into a parked
vehicleat30mph(48km/h),a
20-lb (9 kg) infant will become a
600-lb (275 kg) force, and you will
not be able to hold on.
During a
crash, the belt could press deep
into the child and cause very
serious injuries.
CONTINUED
The Passenger’s Front Airbag
Poses Serious Risks to Children
Children Should Sit in the Back
Seat
Infants
Never put a rear-facing child seat in
the front seat of a vehicle equipped
with a passenger’s front airbag.
Additional Precautions to Parents
Neverholdaninfantorchildon
your lap.
Never put a seat belt over yourself
and an infant or child.
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
23
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To remind you of the passenger’s
front airbag hazards, and that
children must be properly restrained
in the back seat, your car has
warninglabelsonthedashboardand
on the driver’s and front passenger’s
visors. Please read and follow the
instructions on these labels.
If the vehicle seat is
too far forward, or the child’s head is
thrown forward during a collision, an
inflating front airbag can strike the
child with enough force to kill or
very seriously injure a small child.
Whenever possible,
larger children should sit in the back
seat, in a booster seat if needed, and
be properly restrained with a seat
belt. (See page for important
information about protecting larger
children.)
38
U.S. ModelsSmall Children
Placing a forward-facing child seat in
the front seat of a vehicle equipped
with a passenger’s front airbag can
be hazardous.
Larger Children
Children who have outgrown child
seats are also at risk of being injured
or killed by an inflating passenger’s
front airbag.
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
24
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To remind you of the front airbag
hazards, your car has warning labels
on the driver’s and front passenger’s
visors. Please read and follow the
instructions on these labels.
Your car has three seating positions
in the back seat where children can
be properly restrained.
If you ever have to carry more than
three children in your car:
Place the largest child in the front
seat, provided the child is large
enough to wear a seat belt
properly (see page ).
Move the vehicle seat as far to the
rear as possible (see page ).
Have the child sit upright and well
backintheseat(seepage ).
Make sure the seat belt is properly
positioned and secured (see page
).
38
13
19
16
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
If You Must Drive with Several
Children
Canadian Models
25
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Leaving children without
adult supervision is illegal in most
states and Canadian provinces,
and can be very hazardous. For
example, infants and small
childrenleftinavehicleonahot
day can die from heatstroke. And
children left alone with the key in
the ignition can accidentally set
the vehicle in motion, possibly
injuring themselves or others.
Using this feature will
prevent children from opening the
doors and accidentally falling out
(see page ).
Using
this feature will prevent children
from playing with the windows,
which could expose them to
hazards or distract the driver (see
page ).
Many parents say they prefer to put
an infant or small child in the front
passenger seat so they can watch the
child, or because the child requires
attention.
Placing a child in the front seat
exposes the child to hazards from
the passenger’s front airbag, and
paying close attention to a child
distracts the driver from the
important tasks of driving, placing
both of you at risk.
If a child requires physical attention
or frequent visual contact, we
strongly recommend that another
adult ride with the child in the back
seat. The back seat is far safer for a
child than the front.
Children
who play in cars can accidentally
get trapped inside the trunk and
be seriously injured or could die.
Teach your children not to play in
or around cars. Know how to
operate the emergency trunk
opener (U.S. models only) and
decide if your children should be
shown how to use this feature (see
page ).
Even very young
children learn how to unlock
vehicle doors, turn on the ignition,
and open the trunk, which can
lead to accidental injury or death.
92
98 93
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
Do not leave children alone in your
vehicle.
Use childproof door locks to
prevent children from opening the
doors.
Use the main power window
switch to prevent children from
opening the rear windows.
Lock all doors and the trunk when
your vehicle is not in use.
Keep car keys and remote
transmitters out of the reach of
children.
Additional Safety PrecautionsIf a Child Requires Close
Attention
26
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The following pages give general
guidelines for selecting and installing
child seats for infants and small
children.
To provide proper protection, a child
seat should meet three
requirements:
Childrenuptoaboutone
year old should be restrained in a
rear-facing, reclining child seat. Only
a rear-facing seat provides the
proper support to protect an infant’s
head, neck, and back. See page
for additional information on
protecting infants.
The child seat should
meet Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS 213)
or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard 213 (CMVSS 213). Look
for the manufacturer’s statement
of compliance on the boxes.
31
CONTINUED
General Guidelines for Using
Child Seats
Selecting a Child Seat
The child seat should be of the
proper type and size to fit the child.
Infants:
The child seat should meet safety
standards.
2.
1.
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
27
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Before purchasing a child seat, we
recommend that parents test the
child seat in the specific vehicle
seating position (or positions) where
they intend to use the seat. If a
previously purchased child seat does
not fit, you may need to buy a
different one that will fit.
Due to variations in the design of
child seats, vehicle seats, and seat
belts, all child seats will not fit all
vehicle seating positions.
A child who is too
large for a rear-facing child seat, and
who can sit up without support,
should be restrained in a forward-
facing child seat. See page for
additional information on protecting
small children.
However, Honda is confident that
one or more child seat models can fit
andbeproperlyinstalledinall
recommended seating positions in
your car.
Your car has lower anchors installed
for use with LATCH (Lower
AnchorsandTethersforChildren)-
compatible child seats. For more
information, see page .
35
43
The child seat should fit the
vehicle seating position (or
positions) where it will be used.
Small Children:
3.
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
28
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This page briefly summarizes
Honda’s recommendations on where
to place rear-facing and forward-
facing child seats in your car.
Never in the front seat, due
to the front airbag hazard.
The passenger’s front airbag
inflates with enough force to kill
or seriously injure an infant in a
rear-facing child seat.
A small child in a forward-facing
child seat is also at risk. If the
vehicle seat is too far forward,
or the child’s head is thrown
forward during a collision, an
inflating front airbag can kill or
seriously injure the child.
If a small child must ride in the
front, follow the instructions
provided in this section.
Recommended positions.
Properlysecurearear-facingchild
seat (see page ).
Not recommended,
due to the front airbag hazard. If a
small child must ride in front,
move the vehicle seat to the rear-
most position and secure a
forward-facing child seat with the
seat belt (see page ).
Recommended
positions. Properly secure a
forward-facing child seat
(see page ).
36
32
36
CONTINUED
Placing a Child Seat Front Passenger’s Seat
Infants:
Back Seats
Infants:
Small children:
Small children:
Airbags Pose Serious
Risks to Children
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
29
Main Menu
Table of Contents
After selecting a proper child seat,
and a good position to install the seat,
there are three main steps in
installing the seat:
Make sure the child is properly
strappedinthechildseat
according to the child seat maker’s
instructions. A child who is not
properly secured in a child seat
canbethrownoutoftheseatina
crash and be seriously injured.
To provide security during normal
driving maneuvers as well as during
a collision, we recommend that
parents secure a child seat as firmly
as possible.
If the child seat is not secure, try
installing it in a different seating
position, or use a different style of
child seat that can be firmly secured
in the desired seating position.
When you are not using a child seat,
either remove it and store it in a safe
place, or make sure it is properly
secured. An unsecured child seat can
be thrown around the car during a
crash or sudden stop and injure
someone.
However, a child seat does not need
to be ‘‘rock solid.’’ In some vehicles
or seating positions, it may be
difficult to install a child seat so that
it does not move at all. Some side-to-
side or back-and-forth movement can
be expected and should not reduce
the child seat’s effectiveness.
After installing a child
seat, push and pull the seat
forward and from side to side to
verify that it is secure.
All child seats are
designed to be secured to the car
with the lap part of a lap/shoulder
belt. Some child seats can be
secured to the vehicle’s LATCH
anchorage system instead. A child
whose seat is not properly secured
to the car can be endangered in a
crash. See pages , and for
instructions on how to properly
secure child seats in this car.
4332 36
Installing a Child Seat Secure the child in the child seat.
Storing a Child Seat
Make sure the child seat is firmly
secured.
Properly secure the child seat to
the car.
1.
2.
3.
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
30
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Only a rear-facing child seat provides
proper support for a baby’s head,
neck, and back. Infants up to about
one year of age must be restrained in
a rear-facing child seat.
In this car, a rear-facing child seat
can be placed in any seating position
in the back seat, but not in the front
seat.
Two types of seats may be used: a
seat designed exclusively for infants,
or a convertible seat used in the rear-
facing, reclining mode.
If the passenger’s
front airbag inflates, it can hit the
back of the child seat with enough
force to kill or seriously injure an
infant. If an infant must be closely
watched, we recommend that
another adult sit in the back seat
with the baby.
If placed
facing forward, an infant could be
very seriously injured during a
frontal collision.
We recommend that an infant be
restrained in a rear-facing child seat
until the infant is at least one year
old, reaches the seat maker’s weight
or height limit, and is able to sit up
without support.
CONTINUED
Protecting Infants
Child Seat Type
Rear-Facing Child Seat Placement
Never put a rear-facing child seat in
the front seat.
Do not put a rear-facing child seat in
a forward-facing position.
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
31
Placing a rear-facing child seat
in the front seat can result in
serious injury or death if the
passenger’s front airbag inflates.
Always place a rear-facing child
seat in the back seat, not the
front.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
With the child seat in the desired
back seating position, route the
belt through the child seat
according to the seat maker’s
instructions, then insert the latch
plate into the buckle.
The lap/shoulder belts in the back
seats have a locking mechanism that
must be activated to secure a child
seat.
The following pages provide
instructions and tips on how to
secure a rear-facing child seat with
this type of seat belt.
When properly installed, a rear-
facing child seat may prevent the
driver or a front-seat passenger from
moving the seat as far back as
recommended (see page ). Or it
may prevent them from locking the
seat-back in the desired upright
position (see page ).
In either case, we recommend that
you place the child seat directly
behind the front passenger seat,
move the front seat as far forward as
needed, and leave it unoccupied. Or
you may wish to get a smaller child
seat that allows you to safely carry a
front passenger.
If you have a child seat designed to
be attached to the vehicle’s LATCH
anchorage system, follow the
instructions on page .
1.
13
15
43
Rear-Facing Child Seat Installation
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
32
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Push and pull the child seat
forward and from side to side to
verify that it is secure enough to
stay upright during normal driving
maneuvers. If the child seat is not
secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to
retract fully, then repeat these
steps.
After confirming that the belt is
locked, grab the shoulder part of
the belt near the buckle and pull
up to remove any slack from the
lap part of the belt. Remember, if
the lap part of the belt is not tight,
the child seat will not be secure.
To remove slack, it may help to
putweightonthechildseat,or
push on the back of the seat, while
pulling up on the belt.
To activate the lockable retractor,
slowly pull the shoulder part of the
belt all the way out until it stops,
then let the belt feed back into the
retractor (you might hear a
clicking noise as the belt retracts).
After the belt has retracted, tug on
it. If the belt is locked, you will not
be able to pull it out. If you can pull
the belt out, it is not locked and
you will need to repeat these steps.
4. 5.2.
3.
CONTINUED
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
33
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Forproperprotection,aninfantmust
ride in a reclined, or semi-reclined
position. To determine the proper
reclining angle, check with the baby’s
doctor or follow the seat maker’s
recommendations.
To achieve the desired reclining
angle, it may help to put a rolled up
towel under the toe of the child seat,
as shown.
To deactivate the locking
mechanism and remove a child seat,
unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat
belt, and let the belt fully retract.
Rear-Facing Child Seat Installation
Tips
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
34
Main Menu
Table of Contents
In this car, the best place to install a
forward-facing child seat is in one of
the seating positions in the back seat.
If the vehicle seat is
too far forward, or the child’s head is
thrown forward during a collision, an
inflating front airbag can strike the
child with enough force to cause
very serious or fatal injuries. If a
small child must be closely watched,
we recommend that another adult sit
in the back seat with the child.
We also recommend that a small
child stay in the child seat as long as
possible, until the child reaches the
weight or height limit for the seat.
Of the different seats available, we
recommend those that have a five-
point harness system as shown.
A child at least one year old who can
sit up without support, and who fits
within the child seat maker’s weight
and height limits, should be
restrained in a forward-facing,
upright child seat.
CONTINUED
Protecting Small Children
Child Seat Type
Child Seat Placement
Placing a forward-facing child seat in
the front seat of a vehicle equipped
with a passenger’s front airbag can
be hazardous.
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
35
Main Menu
Table of Contents
With the child seat in the desired
seating position, route the belt
through the child seat according
to the seat maker’s instructions,
then insert the latch plate into the
buckle.
The lap/shoulder belts in the back
and front passenger seating positions
have a locking mechanism that must
be activated to secure a child seat.
The following pages provide
instructions on how to secure a
forward-facing child seat with this
type of seat belt.
If it is necessary to put a forward-
facing child seat in the front, move
the vehicle seat as far to the rear as
possible, be sure the child seat is
firmly secured to the car, and the
child is properly strapped in the seat.
If you have a child seat designed to
be attached to the vehicle’s LATCH
anchorage system, follow the
instructions on page .
1.
43
Child Seat Installation
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
36
Improperly placing a forward-
facing child seat in the front
seat can result in serious injury
or death if the front airbags
inflate.
Ifyoumustplaceaforward-
facing child seat in front, move
the vehicle seat as far back as
possible and properly restrain
the child.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Push and pull the child seat
forward and from side to side to
verify that it is secure enough to
stay upright during normal driving
maneuvers. If the child seat is not
secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to
retract fully, then repeat these
steps.
After confirming that the belt is
locked, grab the shoulder part of
the belt near the buckle and pull
up to remove any slack from the
lap part of the belt. Remember, if
the lap part of the belt is not tight,
the child seat will not be secure. It
mayhelptoputweightonthe
child seat, or push on the back of
the seat, while pulling up on the
belt.
To activate the lockable retractor,
slowly pull the shoulder part of the
belt all the way out until it stops,
then let the belt feed back into the
retractor (you might hear a
clicking noise as the belt retracts).
After the belt has retracted, tug on
it. If the belt is locked, you will not
be able to pull it out. If you can pull
the belt out, it is not locked and
you will need to repeat these steps.
4. 5.2.
3.
CONTINUED
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
37
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To deactivate the locking
mechanism in order to remove a
child restraint system, unlatch the
buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let
the belt fully retract.
When a child reaches the
recommended weight or height limit
for a forward-facing child seat, the
child should sit in the back seat on a
booster and wear a lap/shoulder belt.
We recommend that the child use a
booster seat until the child is tall
enough to use the seat belt without a
booster.
The following pages give
instructions on how to check proper
seat belt fit, what kind of booster
seat to use if one is needed, and
important precautions for a child
who must sit in the front seat.
Protecting Larger Children
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
38
Allowing a larger child to sit
improperly in the front seat can
result in injury or death if the
passenger’s front airbag inflates.
If a larger child must sit in front,
make sure the child moves the
seat as far back as possible,
uses a booster seat if needed,
and wears the seat belt properly.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Devices intended to improve
occupant comfort or reposition the
shoulder part of a seat belt, severely
compromise the protective capability
of the seat belt and increase the
chance of serious injury in a crash.
If they do, they could
be very seriously injured in a crash.
To determine if a lap/shoulder belt
properly fits a child, have the child
sit in the rear seat, all the way back
against the seat and put on the seat
belt. Follow the instructions on page
. Then check how the belt fits.
If the shoulder part of the belt rests
over the child’s collarbone and
against the center of the chest, and
the lap belt rests over the child’s
hipbones and touches the tops of the
thighs as shown, the child is
probably big enough to wear the seat
belt.
However, if the shoulder belt
touchesorcrossesthechild’sneck,
or if the lap belt crosses the child’s
stomach, the child needs to use a
booster seat.
This could result in serious neck and
internal injuries during a crash.
This could cause
very serious injuries during a crash.
It also increases the chance that the
child will slide under the belt in a
crash and be injured.
16
CONTINUED
Do not put any accessories on a seat
belt.
Two children should never use the
same seat belt.
Checking Seat Belt Fit
Do not let a child wear a seat belt
across the neck or over the stomach.
Do not let a child put the shoulder
part of a seat belt behind the back or
under the arm.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Protecting Children
39
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The back seat is the safest place for
a child of any age or size.
In addition, the passenger’s front
airbag poses serious risks to children.
If the seat is too far forward, or the
child’s head is thrown forward
during a collision, or the child is
unrestrained or out of position, an
inflating front airbag can kill or
seriously injure the child.
The side airbag also poses risks. If
any part of a larger child’s body is in
the path of a deploying airbag, the
child could receive possibly serious
injuries.
Whichever style you select, follow
the booster seat maker’s instructions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration and Transport
Canada recommend that all children
ages 12 and under be properly
restrained in the back seat.
If a child needs a booster seat, we
recommend choosing a high or low-
back style that allows the child to be
directly secured with the lap/
shoulder belt.
A child should continue using a
booster seat until the child exceeds
the booster seat manufacturer’s
requirements.
Even then, the child may still need to
use a booster seat. Note that some
states now require children to use
boosters until they reach a certain
ageand/orweight.Besuretocheck
current laws in the state or states
where you intend to drive.
Using a Booster Seat When Can a Larger Child Sit in Front
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
40
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Of course, children vary widely. And
while age may be one indicator of
when a child can safely ride in the
front, there are other important
factors you should consider.
Physically, a child must be large
enough for the lap/shoulder belt to
properly fit over the hips, chest, and
shoulder (see pages and ). If
the seat belt does not fit properly,
the child should not sit in the front.
To safely ride in front, a child must
be able to follow the rules, including
sitting properly and wearing the seat
belt properly throughout a ride.
If you decide that a child can safely
ride up front, be sure to:
Carefully read the owner’s manual
and make sure you understand all
seat belt instructions and all safety
information.
Move the vehicle seat to the rear-
most position.
Have the child sit up straight, back
against the seat, and feet on or
near the floor.
Check that the child’s seat belt is
properly positioned and secured.
If your car has side airbags,
remind the child not to lean
toward the door.
Supervise the child. Even mature
children sometimes need to be
reminded to fasten the seat belts
or sit properly.
16 39
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
Maturity
Physical Size
41
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Your car has three tether anchorage
points under the rear window for
securing a tether-style child seat to
the car.
The tether anchor fittings are
located under plastic covers. Pivot
the cover backward to access the
anchor fitting.
Attach the attaching clip to the
tether anchorage point as shown in
the illustration, then tighten the
strap according to the child seat
maker’s instructions. Make sure the
strap is not twisted.Since a tether can provide additional
security, we recommend using a
tether whenever one is required or
available. (Tethers are required in
Canada.)
Using Child Seats with Tethers
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
42
COVER
ANCHORAGE POINT
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Your car is equipped with LATCH
(Lower Anchors and Tethers for
Children) at the outer rear seats.
The lower anchors are located
between the seat-back and seat
bottom and are to be used only with
a child seat designed for use with
LATCH.
Put the child seat in the rear left
or right vehicle seat and attach the
child seat to the lower anchors
according to the child seat maker’s
instructions.
The exact location of each lower
anchorage is marked with a small
circle above the lower anchorage
point.
To install a LATCH-compatible child
seat:
Move the seat belt buckle or
center seat belt away from the
lower anchors.
Make sure there are no foreign
objects around the anchors.
Foreign objects could get in the
way of a secure connection
between the child seat and the
anchors.
1.
2.
3.
CONTINUED
Using LATCH
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
43
LOWER ANCHORS
Rigid type
MARKS
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Follow the child seat maker’s
instructions for any additional
advice on adjusting or tightening
the fit.
Attach the attaching clip to the
tether anchor fitting and tighten
the strap according to the child
seat maker’s instructions. Make
sure the strap is not twisted.
Push and pull the child seat
forward and from side to side to
verify that it is secure enough to
stay upright during normal driving
maneuvers.
This symbol on rear or forward
facing child seats or booster
cushions indicates the presence of
LATCH compatible hardware.
4. 5.
6.
Protecting Children
Driver and Passenger Safety
Lower Universal Anchorage
System Symbol
44
Flexible type
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This seat belt has a single belt that
goes over your shoulder, across your
chest and across your hips. The seat belts in all seating positions
except the driver’s have an additional
locking mechanism that must be
activated to secure a child seat. (See
pages and for instructions on
how to secure child seats with this
type of seat belt.)
All seat belts have an emergency
locking retractor. In normal driving,
the retractor lets you move freely in
your seat while it keeps some
tension on the belt. During a collision
or sudden stop, the retractor
automatically locks the belt to help
restrain your body.
Guide the belt across your body to
the door pillar. After exiting the car,
be sure the belt is out of the way and
will not get closed in the door.
To unlock the belt, push the red
PRESSbuttononthebuckle.
To fasten the belt, insert the latch
plate into the buckle, then tug on the
belt to make sure the buckle is
latched.
The seat belt system also
includes a light on the
instrument panel to remind you and
your passengers to fasten your belts.
If the driver’s seat belt is not
fastened before the ignition is turned
ON (II), the light will come on and a
beeper will also sound. The beeper
will stop after a few seconds, but the
light will stay on until the driver’s
seat belt is fastened.
Your seat belt system includes lap/
shoulder belts in all five seating
positions. The front seat belts are
also equipped with automatic seat
belt tensioners.
32 36
CONTINUED
Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt
Additional Information About Your Seat Belts
Driver and Passenger Safety
45
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Table of Contents
If the shoulder part of the belt is
pulled all the way out, the locking
mechanism will activate. The belt
will retract, but it will not allow the
passenger to move freely.
To deactivate the locking
mechanism, unlatch the buckle and
let the seat belt fully retract. To
refasten the belt, pull it out only as
far as needed.
See page for instructions on how
to wear the lap/shoulder belt
properly.
The tensioners are designed to
activate primarily in frontal collisions.
The tensioners are independent of
the airbag system, so they can be
activated during a collision that
might not cause the airbags to
deploy. In this case, the airbags
would not be needed but the
additional seat belt tension can be
helpful.
The tensioners will be activated in a
collision severe enough to cause the
front airbags to inflate.
For added protection, the front seat
belts are equipped with automatic
seat belt tensioners. When activated,
the tensioners immediately tighten
the belts to help hold the driver and
a front passenger in place.
When the tensioners are activated,
the seat belts will remain tight until
they are unbuckled in the normal
way.
The SRS indicator light will
come on if there is a
problem with your automatic seat
belt tensioners (see page ).
16
51
Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners
Additional Information About Your Seat Belts
Driver and Passenger Safety
46
Main Menu
Table of Contents
For safety, you should check the
condition of your seat belts regularly.
Pull each belt out fully and look for
frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check
that the latches work smoothly and
that the lap/shoulder belts retract
easily. Any belt not in good condition
or not working properly will not
provide good protection and should
be replaced as soon as possible.
Honda provides a lifetime warranty
on seat belts. Honda will repair or
replace any seat belt component that
fails to function properly during
normal use. Please see your
booklet for
details.
If a seat belt is worn during a crash,
it must be replaced by the dealer. A
belt that has been worn during a
crash may not provide the same level
of protection in a subsequent crash.
The dealer should also inspect the
anchors for damage and replace
them if needed.
Automatic seat belt tensioners that
deployed during a crash must be
replaced.
For information on how to clean your
seat belts, see page .250
Honda
Warranty Information
Seat Belt Maintenance
U.S. Models
Additional Information About Your Seat Belts
Driver and Passenger Safety
47
Not checking or maintaining
seat belts can result in serious
injury or death if the seat belts
do not work properly when
needed.
Check your seat belts regularly
and have any problem
corrected as soon as possible.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Your Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS) includes:
Two front airbags. The driver’s
airbag is stored in the center of
the steering wheel; the front
passenger’sairbagisstoredinthe
dashboard. Both are marked ‘‘SRS
AIRBAG.’’
A sophisticated electronic system
that continually monitors and
records information about the
sensors, the control unit, the
airbag activators, and driver and
passenger seat belt use when the
ignition is ON (II).
Sensors that can detect a
moderate to severe frontal
collision.
Automatic seat belt tensioners
(see page ).
An indicator light on the
instrument panel that alerts you to
a possible problem with the
system (see page ).
Emergency backup power in case
your car’s electrical system is
disconnected in a crash.
If you ever have a moderate to
severe frontal collision, the sensors
will detect the vehicle’s rapid
deceleration. If the rate of
deceleration is high enough, the
control unit will instantly inflate the
front airbags.
Your vehicle is equipped with dual-
stage, dual-threshold airbags to help
reduce the chance of airbag-caused
injuries.
51
46
SRS Components How Your Front Airbags Work
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Driver and Passenger Safety
48
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This can occur when the severity of
a collision is at the margin, or
threshold, that determines whether
or not the airbags will deploy. In
such cases, the seat belt will provide
sufficient protection, and the
supplemental protection offered by
the airbag would be minimal.
Since both airbags use the same
sensors, both airbags normally
inflate at the same time. However, it
is possible for only one airbag to
inflate.
After inflating, the front airbags
immediately deflate, so they won’t
interfere with the driver’s visibility,
or the ability to steer or operate
other controls.
During a frontal crash, your seat
belts help restrain your lower body
and torso. Your airbag provides a
cushion to help restrain and protect
your head and chest.
The total time for inflation and
deflation is approximately one-tenth
of a second, so fast that most
occupants are not aware that the
airbags deployed until they see them
lying in their laps.
After a crash, you may see what
looks like smoke. This is actually
powder from the airbag’s surface.
Although the powder is not harmful,
people with respiratory problems
mayexperiencesometemporary
discomfort. If this occurs, get out of
the car as soon as it is safe to do so.
CONTINUED
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Driver and Passenger Safety
49
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To get the best protection from the
side airbags, front seat occupants
should wear their seat belts and sit
upright and well back in their seats.
If you ever have a moderate to
severe side impact, the sensors will
detect rapid deceleration and signal
the control unit to instantly inflate
either the driver’s or the passenger’s
side airbag.
Only one airbag will deploy during a
side impact. If the impact is on the
passenger’s side, the passenger’s
side airbag will deploy even if there
is no passenger.
Your car is equipped with side
airbags for the driver and a front
seat passenger. The airbags are
stored in the outer edges of the front
seat-backs, and both are marked
‘‘SIDE AIRBAG.’’
U.S. Owners:
For additional information on how
your airbags work, see the booklet
titled
that came with your
owner’s manual.
Canadian Owners:
For additional information on how
your airbags work, ask your dealer
for a copy of the booklet titled
SRS: What You Need to Know
About Airbags
SRS:
What You Need to Know About Airbags
.
Only on U.S. models equipped with side
airbags.
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Driver and Passenger Safety
How Your Side Airbags Work
50
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If the light comes on at any other
time, or does not come on at all, you
should have the system checked by
your dealer. For example:
If the SRS indicator light does not
come on after you turn the ignition
ON (II).
If the light stays on after the
engine starts.
If the light comes on or flashes on
andoffwhileyoudrive.
The SRS indicator light
alerts you to a potential
problem with your front airbags and
automatic seat belt tensioners.
On models with side airbags, this
light will also alert you to a potential
problem with your side airbags or
passenger’s side airbag automatic
cutoff system (see page ).
When you turn the ignition ON (II),
this indicator will light briefly then
go out. This tells you that the system
is working properly.
If you see any of these indications,
your front or side airbags may not
deploy, your passenger’s side airbag
automatic cutoff system may not
work properly, or your seat belt
tensioners may not work when you
need them. See your Honda dealer
as soon as possible.
52
How the SRS Indicator Light
Works
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Driver and Passenger Safety
51
Ignoring the SRS indicator light
can result in serious injury or
death if the airbags, cutoff
system, or tensioners do not
work properly.
Have your vehicle checked by a
dealer as soon as possible if
the SRS light alerts you to a
potential problem.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
A front seat passenger should not
use a cushion or other object as a
backrest. It may prevent the cutoff
system from working properly.
When you turn the ignition ON (II),
the indicator should light briefly and
goout(seepage ).Ifitdoesn’t
light, stays on, or comes on while
driving without a passenger in the
front seat, have the system checked.
If a small-statured adult leans
sideways, or larger adult slouches
and leans sideways into the
deployment path of the side airbag,
the system may also shut off the side
airbag.
If the side airbag cutoff indicator
light comes on, you should have the
passenger sit upright. Once the
passenger is out of the deployment
path of the side airbag, the system
will turn the airbag back on and the
light will go out.
To reduce the risk of injury from an
inflating side airbag, your car has an
automatic cutoff system for the
passenger’s side airbag.
Although Honda does not encourage
children to ride in the front, this
system is designed to shut off the
side airbag if a child leans sideways
and the child’s head is in the side
airbag deployment path.
If does not mean there is a problem
with your side airbags. It means that
thesideairbagcutoffsystemhas
activated to prevent the side airbag
from deploying.
This light alerts you that
the passenger’s side airbag
has been automatically shut off. 61
Only on U.S. models equipped with side
airbags
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Driver and Passenger Safety
How the Side Airbag Cutoff
Indicator Light Works
52
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Together, airbags and
seat belts provide the best
protection.
Tampering could cause
the airbags to deploy, possibly
causing very serious injury.
See page for further information
and precautions relating to your
airbags.
If rain or spilled water
soaks into a seat-back, it can
prevent the side airbag system
from working properly.
Improperly
replacing or covering front seat-
back covers can prevent your side
airbags from inflating during a
collision.
Your front and side airbag systems
(if equipped) are virtually
maintenance-free, and there are no
parts you can safely service.
However, you must have your car
serviced if:
Take your car to an
authorized Honda dealer as soon
as possible. If you ignore this
indication, the airbags might not
inflate when you need them.
Any
airbag that has deployed must be
replaced along with the control
unit, automatic seat belt
tensioners, and other related parts.
Do not try to remove or replace
anyairbagbyyourself.Thismust
be done by a Honda dealer or a
knowledgeable body shop.
153
Airbag Service Additional Safety Precautions
Donotattempttodeactivateyour
airbags.
Do not tamper with airbag
components or wiring for any
reason.
Do not expose the front seat-backs
to water.
Do not cover or replace front seat-
back covers without consulting a
Honda dealer.
The SRS indicator light alerts you
to a problem.
Your airbags ever inflate.
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Driver and Passenger Safety
53
Main Menu
Table of Contents
High levels of carbon monoxide can
collect rapidly in enclosed areas,
such as a garage. Do not run the
engine with the garage door closed.
Even with the door open, run the
engine only long enough to move the
vehicle out of the garage.
Your car’s exhaust contains carbon
monoxide gas. You should have no
problem with carbon monoxide
entering the car in normal driving if
you maintain your car properly.
Have the exhaust system inspected
for leaks whenever:
The car is raised for an oil change.
You notice a change in the sound
of the exhaust.
Thecarwasinanaccidentthat
may have damaged the underside.
If you must sit in your parked car,
even in an unconfined area, with the
engine running, adjust the heating
and cooling system as follows:
With the trunk lid open, air flow can
pull exhaust gas into your car’s
interior and create a hazardous
condition. If you must drive with the
trunk lid open, open all the windows
and set the heating and cooling
system as shown below.
Select the Fresh Air mode.
Select the mode.
Turn the fan on high speed.
Set the temperature control to a
comfortable setting.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Carbon Monoxide Hazard
Driver and Passenger Safety
54
Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.
Breathing it can cause
unconsciousness and even kill
you.
Avoid any enclosed areas or
activities that expose you to
carbon monoxide.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
These labels are in the locations
shown. They warn you of potential
hazards that could cause serious
injury. Read these labels carefully.
If a label comes off or becomes hard
to read, contact your Honda dealer
for a replacement.
CONTINUED
U.S. models
Canadian models
U.S. models only
Safety Labels
Driver and Passenger Safety
55
RADIATOR CAP
SUN VISORDASHBOARD
Main Menu
Table of Contents
On models without side airbags
On models with side airbags
Safety Labels
Driver and Passenger Safety
56
HOOD
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This section gives information about
the controls and displays that
contribute to the daily operation of
your Honda. All the essential
controls are within easy reach.
...........................Control Locations . 58
...............................Indicator Lights . 59
.............................................Gauges . 67
...............................Speedometer . 69
.................................Tachometer . 69
...............Odometer/Trip Meter . 69
.................Current Fuel Mileage . 70
................................Trip Mileage . 70
Turning Off the Mileage
.....................................Display . 71
..................................Fuel Gauge . 71
...................Temperature Gauge . 71
..................Battery Level Gauge . 72
................Charge/Assist Gauge . 73
Controls Near the Steering
.......................................Wheel . 74
...................................Headlights . 75
............Daytime Running Lights . 76
....Instrument Panel Brightness . 77
................................Turn Signals . 78
.....................Windshield Wipers . 78
..................Windshield Washers . 80
..........................Hazard Warning . 80
.............Rear Window Defogger . 81
......Steering Wheel Adjustment . 82
...............................Keys and Locks . 83
..............................................Keys . 83
....................Immobilizer System . 84
............................Ignition Switch . 86
......................Power Door Locks . 87
...................Remote Transmitter . 89
..............Childproof Door Locks . 92
...........................................Trunk . 92
........Emergency Trunk Opener . 93
............................Seat Adjustments . 94
.............Front Seat Adjustments . 94
................Driver’s Seat Armrest . 95
..........................Head Restraints . 96
..............................Power Windows . 97
.............................................Mirrors . 99
....Adjusting the Power Mirrors . 99
...............................Parking Brake . 100
......................................Glove Box . 101
...........................Beverage Holder . 102
.................Console Compartment . 102
........................................Coin Box . 103
...............................Center Pocket . 103
.............Accessory Power Socket . 103
...............................Interior Lights . 104
..............................Ceiling Light . 104
...................................Spotlights . 104
................Ignition Switch Light . 105
Instruments and Controls
Instruments and Controls
57
Main Menu
Control Locations
Instruments and Controls
58
CRUISE CONTROL
(P. 139)
POWER DOOR LOCK
SWITCH
(P. 87)
REAR WINDOW
DEFOGGER
(P. 81)
POWER WINDOW
SWITCHES
(P. 97)
FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE
(P. 145)
TRUNK RELEASE
(P. 92)
(P. 146)
HOOD RELEASE
HANDLE
(P. 140)
CRUISE CONTROL
(P. 123)
DIGITAL CLOCK
(P. 118)
AUDIO SYSTEM
MIRROR
CONTROLS
HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS
(P. 108)
(P. 99)
Main Menu
Table of Contents
＊
＊
＊
The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian models are noted in the text.
CONTINUED
Indicator Lights
Instruments and Controls
Automatic Transmission (CVT)
59
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR
(P. 64)
CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR
(P. 65)
SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT
(P. 61)
SIDE AIRBAG CUTOFF INDICATOR
(P. 61)
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM INDICATOR
(P. 61)
CHARGING SYSTEM
INDICATOR
(P. 62, 272)
AUTO IDLE STOP
INDICATOR
(P. 172)
IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR
(P. 63)
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP
(P. 273)
LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR
(P. 62, 271)
(P. 63)
ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS) INDICATOR
(P. 166)
SHIFT LEVER POSITION
INDICATOR
(P. 65)
TRUNK-OPEN INDICATOR
(P. 63)
IMA SYSTEM
INDICATOR
(P. 65)
LOW FUEL INDICATOR
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
INDICATOR
(P. 62)
(P. 66)
MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR
(P. 62)
PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM
INDICATOR
Main Menu
Table of Contents
＊
＊
＊
＊
The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian models are noted in the text.
Indicator Lights
Instruments and Controls
Manual Transmission
60
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR
(P. 64)
(P. 65)
CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR
SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT
(P. 61)
SIDE AIRBAG CUTOFF INDICATOR
(P. 61)
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM INDICATOR
(P. 61)
CHARGING SYSTEM
INDICATOR
(P. 62, 272)
AUTO IDLE STOP
INDICATOR
(P. 164)
IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
INDICATOR
(P. 63)
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP
(P. 273)
LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR
(P. 62, 271)
(P. 63)
ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS)
INDICATOR
SHIFT UP/SHIFT DOWN
INDICATORS
(P. 165)
TRUNK-OPEN INDICATOR
(P. 65)
IMA SYSTEM
INDICATOR
(P. 63)
(P. 65)
LOW FUEL INDICATOR
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
INDICATOR
(P. 62)
MAINTENANCE REQUIRED
INDICATOR
(P. 66)
(P. 62)
PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM
INDICATOR
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The instrument panel has many
indicators to give you important
information about your car.
This indicator lights when you turn
the ignition switch ON (II). It is a
reminder to you and your passengers
to protect yourselves by fastening
the seat belts. A beeper also sounds
if you have not fastened your seat
belt.
If you do not fasten your seat belt,
the beeper will stop after a few
seconds but the light stays on until
you do. Both the light and the beeper
stay off if you fasten your seat belt
before turning on the ignition.
This indicator lights when you turn
the ignition switch ON (II). If it
comes on at any other time, it
indicates that the passenger’s side
airbag has automatically shut off.
For complete information, see page
.
This indicator lights when you turn
the ignition switch ON (II). If it
comes on at any other time, it
indicates a potential problem with
your front airbags or automatic seat
belt tensioners. On models equipped
with side airbags, this light will also
alert you to a potential problem with
your side airbags or passenger’s side
airbag automatic cutoff system. For
complete information, see page .51
52
CONTINUED
Only on U.S. models equipped with side
airbags
Indicator Lights
Instruments and Controls
Seat Belt Reminder Light
Supplemental Restraint
System Indicator
Side Airbag Cutoff
Indicator
61
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This light has two functions:
This light normally comes on for a
few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch ON (II), and when
the ignition switch is turned to
START (III). If this light comes on at
any other time, there is a problem in
theABS.Ifthishappens,takethe
cartoyourdealertohaveitchecked.
With the light on, your car still has
normal braking ability but no anti-
lock. For complete information, see
page .
If this light comes on when the
engine is running, the battery is not
being charged. For complete
information, see page .
The engine can be severely damaged
if this light flashes or stays on when
the engine is running. For complete
information, see page .
This indicator comes on when you
turn the ignition switch ON (II). It
is a reminder to check the parking
brake. Driving with the parking
brake not fully released can
damage the brakes and tires.
If the indicator remains lit after
you have fully released the
parking brake while the engine is
running, or if it comes on while
driving, it can indicate a problem
in the brake system. For complete
information, see page .
See page .
1.
2.
272
271
275
177273
Only on models equipped with ABS (see
page )175
Parking Brake
and Brake
System
Indicator
Anti-lock Brake
System (ABS)
Indicator
Charging System
Indicator
Low Oil Pressure
Indicator
Malfunction Indicator
Lamp
Indicator Lights
Instruments and Controls
62
U.S. Canada
U.S. Canada
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This light normally comes on when
you turn the ignition ON (II) and
goes off after the engine starts. If it
comes on at any other time, there is
a problem in the Electric Power
Steering system. If this happens,
stop the car in a safe place and turn
off the engine. Reset the system by
restarting the engine. The indicator
will not turn off immediately. If it
does not go off after driving a short
distance, or comes back on again
while driving, take the car to your
dealer to have it checked. With the
light on, the EPS may be turned off,
making the car harder to steer.
This indicator comes on for a few
seconds when you turn the ignition
switch ON (II). It will then go off if
you have inserted a properly-coded
ignition key. If it is not a properly-
coded key, the indicator will blink
and the engine will not start (see
page ).
This indicator also blinks several
times when you turn the ignition
switch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY
(I) or LOCK (0).
This indicator normally comes on for
a few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch ON (II). If it comes
on at any other time, it indicates a
problem in the Integrated Motor
Assist (IMA) system. With the IMA
indicator on, the vehicle may not
accelerate as it normally does. Have
the vehicle checked by the dealer as
soon as possible.
See pages and .
84
172164
Indicator Lights
Instruments and Controls
Electric Power Steering
(EPS) Indicator
Immobilizer System
Indicator
IMA System Indicator
Auto Idle Stop Indicator
63
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This light comes on with the high
beam headlights. See page for
information on the headlight
controls.
This indicator lights when you turn
the ignition switch to ON (II) with
the headlight switch off and the
parking brake set. It should go off if
youturnontheheadlightsorrelease
the parking brake. If it comes on at
any other time, it means there is a
problem with the DRL. There may
also be a problem with the high
beam headlights.
The left or right turn signal light
blinks when you signal a lane change
or turn. If the light does not blink or
blinks rapidly, it usually means one
of the turn signal bulbs is burned out
(see page ). Replace the bulb as
soon as possible, since other drivers
cannot see that you are signalling.
WhenyouturnontheHazard
Warning switch, both turn signal
lights blink. All turn signals on the
outside of the car should flash.
75
235
Canadian models only
High Beam Indicator ‘‘Daytime Running
Lights’’ Indicator
Turn Signal and
Hazard Warning
Indicators
Indicator Lights
Instruments and Controls
64
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This light comes on when the
washer fluid level is low. Add washer
fluid when you see this light come on
(see page ).
This light comes on as a reminder
that you must refuel soon.
This light comes on if the trunk lid is
not closed tightly.
This lights when you set the cruise
control. See page for information
on operating the cruise control.
See page .
See page .
205
139
165
166
Canadian models only
Manual Transmission
Automatic Transmission (CVT)
Indicator Lights
Instruments and Controls
Washer Level IndicatorLow Fuel Indicator
Trunk-open Indicator
Cruise Control Indicator
Shift Up/Shift Down Indicators
Shift Lever Position Indicator
65
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
Between 8,000 miles (12,800 km)
and 10,000 miles (16,000 km) this
indicator will light for two seconds
when you first turn the ignition
switch ON (II), and then flash for
ten seconds.
If you exceed 10,000 miles (16,000
km) without having the scheduled
maintenance performed, this
indicator will remain on as a constant
reminder.
For the first 8,000 miles (12,800 km)
after the Maintenance Required
Indicator is reset, it will come on for
two seconds when you turn the
ignition switch ON (II).
Refer to the Maintenance Schedules
for Normal and Severe Driving
Conditions on pages .
This indicator reminds you that it is
time to take your car in for
scheduled maintenance.
Your dealer will reset this indicator
after completing the scheduled
maintenance. If this maintenance is
done by someone other than your
Honda dealer, reset the indicator as
follows.
Turn off the engine.
Hold the button until the indicator
resets (approximately ten
seconds).
Press and hold the select/reset
buttonintheinstrumentpanel,
then turn the ignition switch ON
(II).
184 190
1.
2.
3.
Indicator Lights
Instruments and Controls
Maintenance Required
Indicator
66
Main Menu
Table of Contents
CONTINUED
U.S. model is shown.
Gauges
Instruments and Controls
67
Automatic Transmission (CVT)
TACHOMETER
SPEEDOMETER
ODOMETER/TRIP METER
FUEL GAUGE
IMA CHARGE/ASSIST GAUGE
BATTERY LEVEL INDICATOR
FUEL MILEAGE DISPLAY
CURRENT FUEL MILEAGE DISPLAY
SELECT/RESET
BUTTON
TEMPERATURE GAUGE
Main Menu
Table of Contents
U.S. model is shown.
Gauges
Instruments and Controls
68
Manual Transmission
TACHOMETER
SPEEDOMETER
ODOMETER/TRIP METER FUEL GAUGE
IMA CHARGE/ASSIST GAUGE
BATTERY LEVEL INDICATOR
FUEL MILEAGE DISPLAY
CURRENT FUEL MILEAGE DISPLAY
SELECT/
RESET BUTTON
TEMPERATURE GAUGE
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The gauges illuminate when you
turn the ignition switch ON (II).
This shows your speed in miles per
hour (mph). The smaller inner
numbers are the speed in kilometers
per hour (km/h).
This shows your speed in kilometers
per hour (km/h). The smaller inner
numbers are the speed in miles per
hour (mph).
The tachometer shows the engine
speed in revolutions per minute
(rpm). To protect the engine from
damage, never drive with the
tachometerreadingintheredzone.
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 U.S. federal law and
Canadian provincial regulations to
disconnect, reset, or alter the
odometer with the intent to change
the number of miles or kilometers
indicated.
The trip meter shows the number of
miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada)
driven since you last reset it.
U.S. Models
Canadian Models
CONTINUED
Instruments and Controls
Speedometer
Tachometer
Odometer/Trip Meter
Gauges
69
SELECT/RESET BUTTON
ODOMETER/TRIP METER
U.S. model is shown.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
There are two trip meters: Trip A
and Trip B. The odometer and the
two trip meters use the same display.
Switch between these displays and
the odometer by pressing the Select/
Reset button repeatedly. Each trip
meter works independently, so you
can keep track of two different
distances.
To reset a trip meter, display it, and
then press and hold the Select/Reset
button until the number resets to
‘‘0.0’’.
This display shows the current, or
instantaneous fuel mileage you are
getting.
It shows the number of miles per
hour and mpg (U.S.) or kilometers
per hour and 1/100 km (Canada).
You can turn off this display at any
time. See page .
When you reset a trip meter, the
average fuel mileage for that trip
meter also resets.
When a trip meter is displayed, the
average fuel mileage you have been
getting during that trip is shown in
the Fuel Mileage display. This
number is updated once per ten
seconds.
71
Instruments and Controls
Gauges
Current Fuel Mileage Trip Mileage
70
CURRENT FUEL MILEAGE
U.S. Model is shown.
TRIP MILEAGE (TRIPA)
U.S. Model is shown.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This shows the temperature of the
engine’s coolant. During normal
operation, the reading should be in
the middle of the gauge. In severe
driving conditions, such as very hot
weather or a long period of uphill
driving, the reading may reach near
the red mark. If it reaches the red
(Hot) mark, pull safely to the side of
the road. Turn to page for
instructions and precautions on
checking the engine’s cooling
system.
This shows how much fuel you have.
It is most accurate when the car is on
level ground. It may show slightly
more or less than the actual amount
whenyouaredrivingoncurvyor
hilly roads.
You can temporarily turn off the
Current Fuel Mileage display.
To turn it off:
Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
If the engine is running, make
sure the transmission is in Neutral
(manual) or Park (automatic) and
the parking brake is set.
Use the Select/Reset button to
select the odometer display.
Press and hold the Select/Reset
button for about 10 to 15 seconds,
then release it. The Current Fuel
Mileage display will turn off.
The display will turn back on when
you repeat the same procedure on
the step 3.
268
1.
2.
3.
Instruments and Controls
Temperature GaugeFuel GaugeTurning Off the Mileage Display
Gauges
71
Avoid driving with an extremely low
fuel level. Running out of fuel could
cause the engine to misfire, damaging
the catalytic converter.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This gauge shows you the state of
charge of the battery for the
Integrated Motor Assist (IMA). This
battery is recharged by the engine,
anddischargedbytheIMAwhenit
is assisting the engine with powering
the vehicle.
The gauge reading may drop near
the bottom under driving conditions
that require assist for a long time,
such as prolonged acceleration or
climbing a long hill. The engine will
recharge the battery as you continue
driving.
If the battery is mostly discharged,
the Auto Idle Stop function is
disabled (see pages and ).
The battery level gauge does not
read the battery level directly. It
calculates the level by continuously
measuring the current flow, voltage,
and temperature.
Since the level is not read directly,
small sensing errors can, over time,
cause the gauge to read higher than
the actual battery level. The system
will then perform a correction, and
the battery level gauge reading will
drop suddenly. When this happens,
IMA assist and Auto Idle Stop are
disabled until the IMA battery is
sufficiently recharged by normal
driving. This should take only a few
minutes.
This correction of the battery level
gauge is normal and does not
indicate a problem. If the IMA
battery develops a problem or
becomes deteriorated, the IMA
system indicator will come on. If this
happens, have the vehicle checked
by your dealer as soon as possible.
163 171
Battery Level Gauge
Gauges
Instruments and Controls
72
BATTERY LEVEL GAUGE
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This gauge shows you the status of
the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA).
When the IMA battery is being
charged, the left side of the gauge
illuminates. When the IMA is
assisting the engine, the right side of
the gauge illuminates.
If the IMA battery is too hot or too
cold, the IMA system shuts down to
protect the battery. This disables the
IMA assist and Auto Idle Stop, even
though the Battery Level Gauge may
show that the battery is well-charged.
Therefore, those functions may not
operate when you first start driving
in very hot or cold weather.
The battery temperature will
normalize after a few minutes of
driving, and the IMA system will
work normally.
Instruments and Controls
Gauges
Charge/Assist Gauge
73
IMA CHARGE
GAUGE
IMA ASSIST
GAUGE
Main Menu
Table of Contents
＊
＊
Thetwoleversonthesteering
column contain controls for driving
features you use most often. The left
lever controls the turn signals,
headlights, and high beams. The
right lever controls the windshield
washers and wipers.
The hazard warning lights switch is
on the dashboard between the
center air vents.
The controls under the left air vent
are for the rear window defogger,
mirrors, and cruise control.
The tilt adjustment lever on the
underside of the steering column
allows you to tilt the steering wheel.
To use the horn, press the center
pad of the steering wheel.
:
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Instruments and Controls
74
CRUISE CONTROL
MASTER SWITCH
REAR WINDOW
DEFOGGER
MIRROR CONTROLS
TILT ADJUSTMENT
HORN
CRUISE CONTROL
SWITCHES
ECON BUTTON
HAZARD WARNING
LIGHTS
WINDSHIELD
WIPERS/WASHERS
HEADLIGHTS/
TURN SIGNALS
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If you leave the lights on with the
ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I)
or LOCK (0), you will hear a
reminder tone when you open the
driver’s door.
The rotating switch on the left lever
controls the lights. Turning this
switch to the ‘‘ ’’ position turns
on the parking lights, taillights, side-
marker lights, and rear license plate
lights. Turning the switch to the
‘‘ ’’ position turns on the
headlights.
To change from low beams to high
beams, push the turn signal lever
forward until you hear a click. The
blue high beam indicator will light
(see page ). To return to low
beams, pull the turn signal lever
back.
64
CONTINUED
Headlights
Instruments and Controls
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
75
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To flash the high beams, pull the
turn signal lever back lightly, then
release it. The high beams will come
on and go off. The high beams will
stay on for as long as you hold the
lever back, no matter what position
the headlight switch is in.
With the headlight switch off, the
high beam headlights come on with
reduced brightness when you turn
the ignition switch to ON (II) and
release the parking brake. They
remain on until you turn the ignition
off, even if you set the parking brake.
The headlights revert to normal
operation when you turn them on
with the switch.
Canadian models only
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Instruments and Controls
Daytime Running Lights
76
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Turn the Select/Reset knob on the
right side of the instrument panel to
adjust the brightness of the
instrument panel lights.
Turn the Select/Reset knob to adjust
the instrument panel brightness.
There are six brightness levels.
When you turn the knob, the
odometer/trip meter display
changes to circles that show you the
current level. You will hear a tone
when you reach the maximum or
minimum brightness. The display
returns to the odometer/trip meter
values five seconds after you stop
adjusting the knob.
The instrument panel dims when the
parking lights or headlights are
turned on. Adjust the brightness to
the desired level with the headlight
switch off, and also with the
headlight switch on. Both settings
will remain at those levels until you
change them.
To reduce glare at night, the instru-
ment panel illumination dims when
you turn the light switch to or
. Turning the Select/Reset
knob fully to the right will return the
instrument panel to the brightness
adjusted with the headlight switch
off and a tone will sound.
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Instruments and Controls
Instrument Panel Brightness
77
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Signal a turn or lane change with this
lever. Push down on the lever to
signal a left turn, and up to signal a
right turn. If you push it up or down
all the way, the turn signal continues
to blink even when you release the
lever. It shuts off automatically as
you complete the turn.
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.
This lever controls the windshield
wipers and washers. It has five
positions:
MIST: mist
OFF: off
INT: intermittent
LO: low speed
HI: high speed
To select a position, push the lever
up or down.
Turn Signals Windshield Wipers
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Instruments and Controls
78
TURN SIGNAL LEVER
Main Menu
Table of Contents
In intermittent, the wipers operate
every few seconds. You can vary
how often the wipers sweep the
windshield by turning the INT TIME
ring on the right lever. In low speed
and high speed, the wipers run
continuously.
To operate the wipers in mist mode,
push the control lever up from the
OFF position. The wipers run at high
speed until you release the lever.
This gives you a quick way to clear
the windshield.
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Instruments and Controls
79
INT TIME RING
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To clean the windshield, pull back on
the wiper control lever. The washers
spray until you release the lever.
Push the button between the center
vents to turn on the hazard warning
lights (four-way flashers). This
causes all four outside turn signals
and both indicators in the instrument
panel to flash. Use the hazard
warning lights if you need to park in
a dangerous area near heavy traffic,
or if your car is disabled.
The wipers run at low speed while
you’re pulling the lever, then
complete one more sweep of the
windshield after you release it.
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Instruments and Controls
Windshield Washers Hazard Warning
80
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The rear window defogger will clear
fog,frost,andthinicefromthe
window. Push the defogger button to
turn it on and off. The light in the
button lights to show the defogger is
on. If you do not turn it off, the
defogger will shut itself off after
about15minutes.Italsoshutsoff
when you turn off the ignition. You
have to turn it on again when you
restart the car.
Make sure the rear window is clear
and you have good visibility before
starting to drive.
Thedefoggerwiresontheinsideof
the rear window can be accidentally
damaged. When cleaning the glass,
always wipe side to side.
Rear Window Defogger
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Instruments and Controls
81
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Push the lever up to lock the
steering wheel in that position.
Make sure you have securely
locked the steering wheel in place
by trying to move it up and down.
Move the steering wheel to the
desired position, making sure the
wheel points toward your chest,
not toward your face. Make sure
you can see the instrument panel
gauges and the indicator lights.
Push the lever under the steering
column all the way down.
To adjust the steering wheel upward
or downward:
Make any steering wheel adjustment
before you start driving.
1.
4.
3.
2.
See page for important safety
information about how to properly
position the steering wheel.
18
Steering Wheel Adjustment
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Instruments and Controls
82
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
when the car is stopped.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
CONTINUED
Your car comes with two master
keys and a valet key.
These keys contain electronic
circuits that are activated by the
Immobilizer System. They will not
work to start the engine if the
circuits are damaged.
Protect the keys from direct
sunlight, high temperature, and
high humidity.
The keys do not contain batteries.
Do not try to take them apart.
Keep the keys away from liquids.
If they get wet, dry them immedi-
ately with a soft cloth.
Donotdropthekeysorsetheavy
objects on them.
The master key fits all the locks on
your car:
• Ignition
• Doors
• Trunk
• Trunk release handle
The valet key works only in the
ignition and the door locks. You can
keep the trunk, and trunk release
handle locked when you leave your
car and the valet key at a parking
facility. (See Trunk, page .)
Youshouldhavereceivedakey
number plate with your set of keys.
You will need this key number if you
ever have to get a lost key replaced.
Keep the plate stored in a safe place.
When replacing keys, use only
Honda-approved key blanks.
92
Instruments and Controls
Keys
Keys and Locks
83
KEY
NUMBER
PLATE
MASTER
KEYS
(Black)
VALET
KEY
(Gray)
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The Immobilizer System protects
your car from theft. A properly-
coded master or valet key must be
used in the ignition switch for the
engine to start. If an improperly-
coded key (or other device) is used,
the engine’s fuel system is disabled.
When you turn the ignition switch to
ON (II), the Immobilizer System
indicator should come on for a few
seconds, then go out. If the indicator
starts to blink, it means the system
does not recognize the coding of the
key. Turn the ignition switch to
LOCK (0), remove the key, reinsert
it, and turn the switch to ON (II)
again.
The system may not recognize your
key’s coding if another immobilizer
key or other metal object is near the
ignition switch when you insert the
key. To make sure the system
recognizes the key code:
Do not keep other immobilizer
keys on the same key ring.
Use a plastic or leather key fob,
not metal.
Keep other keys away from your
car’s key and the ignition switch
while trying to start the engine.
If the system repeatedly does not
recognize the coding of your key,
contact your Honda dealer.
Your car also comes with two remote
transmitters; see page for an
explanation of the operation.
89
Keys and Locks
Instruments and Controls
Remote Transmitter
Immobilizer System
84
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The Immobilizer System indicator
will also blink several times when
you turn the ignition switch from ON
(II) to ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0).
Do not attempt to alter this system
or add other devices to it. Electrical
problems could result that may make
your car undriveable.
If you have lost your key and you
cannot start the engine, contact your
Honda dealer.
As required by the FCC:
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
This device complies with Industry
Canada Standard RSS-210.
Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause
interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.
Keys and Locks
Instruments and Controls
85
Main Menu
Table of Contents
− You can insert or
remove the key only in this position.
To switch from ACCESSORY to
LOCK, you must push the key in
slightly as you turn it. If your car has
an automatic transmission, the shift
lever must also be in Park. The anti-
theft lock will lock the steering
column when you remove the key.
If the front wheels are turned, the
anti-theft lock may sometimes make
it difficult to turn the key from
LOCK to ACCESSORY. Firmly turn
the steering wheel to the left or to
the right as you turn the key.
The ignition switch is on the right
side of the steering column. It has
four positions:
•LOCK(0)
• ACCESSORY (I)
• ON (II)
• START (III)
Instruments and Controls
Keys and Locks
LOCK (0)Ignition Switch
86
Removing the key from the
ignition switch while driving
locks the steering. This can
cause you to lose control.
Remove the key from the
ignition switch only when
parked.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
−
−In this position,
you can operate the audio system
and the accessory power socket.
This is the normal key
position when driving. All features
and accessories on the car are usable.
Several of the lights on the instru-
ment panel come on as a test when
you turn the ignition switch from
ACCESSORY to ON.
Use this position
only to start the engine. The switch
returns to ON (II) when you let go of
the key.
The engine will not start if the
Immobilizer System does not
recognize the key’s coding (see page
).
You will hear a reminder beeper if
you leave the key in the ignition
switch in the LOCK (0) or
ACCESSORY (I) position and open
thedriver’sdoor.Removethekeyto
turn off the beeper.
The master door lock switch allows
control of all door locks from the
driver’s door. Push the switch down
to lock all doors, and up to unlock
them.
84
CONTINUED
Keys and Locks
Instruments and Controls
ACCESSORY (I)
ON (II)
START (III) Power Door Locks
87
MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To lock any passenger’s door when
getting out of the car, push the lock
tab down and close the door. To lock
the driver’s door, remove the key
from the ignition switch, pull the
outside door handle and push the
locktabdownorpushthemaster
switch down. Release the handle,
then close the door.
The front doors can be locked and
unlocked from the outside with the
key.
All doors lock when you push down
the lock tab on the driver’s door, or
lock the driver’s door from the
outside with the key. Only the driver’s
door unlocks when you use the key
or the lock tab. To unlock the passen-
gers’ doors, use the master door lock
switch or the lock tab on each door.
Each door has a lock tab at the top of
the door. When you push down the
lock tab on the driver’s door, all
doors lock. Pulling up the lock tab on
the driver’s door only unlocks that
door.Thelocktaboneach
passenger’s door only locks and
unlocks that door.
Keys and Locks
Instruments and Controls
88
Main Menu
Table of Contents
CONTINUED
When you push the LOCK button a
second time within 5 seconds after
you have locked the doors, the horn
will sound once to verify that the
doors are locked.
The ceiling light (if the ceiling light
switch is in the center position) will
come on when you press the
UNLOCK button. If you do not open
any of the doors, the light will go out
in about 30 seconds and the doors
will automatically relock. If you
relock the doors with the remote
transmitter before 30 seconds have
elapsed, the light will go off
immediately.
You can lock and unlock your car
with the remote transmitter. When
you push the LOCK button, all doors
lock. The parking lights, side marker
lights, taillights, license plate lights,
and the instrument panel lights flash
once.
When you push the UNLOCK button
once, only the driver’s door unlocks.
The remaining doors unlock when
you push the button a second time.
The parking lights, side marker
lights, taillights, license plate lights,
and the instrument panel lights flash
twice each time you push the button.
You cannot lock the doors with the
remote transmitter if any door is not
fully closed. You cannot lock or
unlock the doors with the key in the
ignition switch.
Remote Transmitter
Keys and Locks
Instruments and Controls
89
LED
UNLOCK
BUTTON
LOCK
BUTTON
PANIC
BUTTON
Main Menu
Table of Contents
＋
To replace the battery, remove the
round cover on the back of the trans-
mitter by turning it counterclockwise
with a coin.
Remove the old battery and note the
polarity. Make sure the polarity of
the new battery is the same ( side
facing up), then insert it in the
transmitter.
When the remote transmitter’s
battery begins to get weak, it may
take several pushes on the button to
lock or unlock the doors, and the
LED will get dim. Replace the
battery as soon as possible.
Battery type: CR2025
To cancel Panic mode before 30
seconds, press any button on the
remote transmitter. You can also
turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
Panic mode will not activate if the
ignition switch is in the ON (II)
position.
Panic mode allows you to remotely
activate your car’s horn and exterior
lights to attract attention. When
activated, the horn will sound, and
the exterior lights will flash, for
about 30 seconds. To activate panic
mode,pressandholdthePANIC
button for about one second.
Instruments and Controls
Keys and Locks
Replacing the BatteryPanic Mode
90
Open
Close
CUSHION
RING
ROUND
COVER
BATTERY
Main Menu
Table of Contents
▽
◎
As required by the FCC:
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
This device complies with Industry
Canada Standard RSS-210.
Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause
interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.
Avoid severe shock to the trans-
mitter, such as dropping or throwing
it. Also, protect it from extreme hot
or cold temperatures.
Clean the transmitter case with a
soft cloth. Do not use strong
cleaners or solvents that could harm
the case. Immersing the transmitter
in any liquid will harm the trans-
mitter and cause it to not function
properly.
If you lose a transmitter, you will
need to have the replacement
programmed to your car’s system by
your Honda dealer. Any other
transmitters you have will also need
to be reprogrammed.
Reinstall the cushion ring. Align the
mark on the cover with the
mark on the transmitter,
thensetthecoverinplaceandturnit
clockwise.
Keys and Locks
Instruments and Controls
Transmitter Care
91
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To close the trunk, press down on
the trunk lid.
See page for cargo loading and
weight limit information. Keep the
trunk lid closed at all times while
driving to avoid damaging the lid,
and to prevent exhaust gas from
getting into the interior. See
on page .
Youcanopenthetrunkintwoways:
Pull the trunk release handle to
the left of the driver’s seat.
Usethemasterkeytoopenthe
trunk lock. The valet key does not
work in this lock.
The childproof door locks are
designed to prevent children seated
in the rear from accidentally opening
the rear doors. Each rear door has a
lock lever near the edge. With the
lever in the LOCK position, the door
cannot be opened from the inside
regardless of the position of the lock
tab. To open the door, pull the lock
tab up and use the outside door
handle.
54
154
Keys and Locks
Instruments and Controls
Trunk
Carbon
Monoxide Hazard
Childproof Door Locks
92
LEVER
TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE
MASTER KEY
Pull
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To protect items in the trunk when
you need to give the key to someone
else, lock the trunk release handle
with the master key and give the
other person the valet key.
Parents should decide if their
children should be shown how to use
this feature.
For more information about child
safety, see page .
As a safety feature, your car has a
release lever on the trunk latch so
the trunk can be opened from the
inside.
To open the trunk, push the release
lever to the left.
26
Keys and Locks
Instruments and Controls
Emergency Trunk Opener
93
MASTER KEY
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−See pages for important safety
information and warnings about how to
properly position seats and seat-backs.
13 15
Make all seat adjustments before
you start driving.
To change the angle of the seat-back,
pull up on the lever on the outside of
the seat bottom. Move the seat-back
to the desired position and release
the lever. Let the seat-back latch into
the new position.
To adjust the seat forward and
backward, pull up on the bar under
the seat cushion’s front edge. Move
the seat to the desired position and
releasethebar.Trytomovetheseat
to make sure it is locked in position.
FrontSeatAdjustments
Seat Adjustments
Instruments and Controls
94
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To use the driver’s seat armrest,
pivotitdown.
Seat Adjustments
Instruments and Controls
Driver’s Seat Armrest
95
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To remove a head restraint for
cleaning or repair, pull it up as far as
it will go. Push the release button
and pull the restraint out of the seat-
back.
The front head restraints adjust for
height. You need both hands to
adjust the restraint. Do not attempt
to adjust it while driving. To raise it,
pull upward. To lower the restraint,
push the release button sideways
and push the restraint down.
The front head restraints help
protect you and your passenger from
whiplash and other injuries. They are
most effective when you adjust them
so the back of the occupant’s head
rests against the center of the
restraint. A taller person should
adjust the restraint as high as
possible.
See page for important safety
information and a warning about how to
properly position the head restraints.
16
Head Restraints
Seat Adjustments
Instruments and Controls
96
RELEASE BUTTON
Main Menu
Table of Contents
CONTINUED
The driver’s door armrest has a
master power window control panel.
To open any of the passenger’s win-
dows, push down on the appropriate
switch and hold it until the window
reaches the desired position. To
close the window, pull back on the
window switch. Release the switch
when the window gets to the position
you want.
Your car’s windows are electrically-
powered. Turn the ignition switch to
ON(II)toraiseorloweranywindow.
Each door has a switch that controls
its window. To open the window,
push the switch down and hold it.
Release the switch when you want
the window to stop. Close the
window by pulling back on the
switch and holding it.
Instruments and Controls
Power Windows
97
DRIVER’S WINDOW SWITCH
MAIN SWITCH
Closing a power window on
someone’s hands or fingers can
cause serious injury.
Make sure your passengers are
away from the windows before
closing them.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
The master control panel also con-
tains these extra features:
To open the driver’s
window fully, push the window
switch firmly down and release it.
The window automatically goes all
the way down. To stop the window
from going all the way down, pull
back on the window switch briefly.
To open the driver’s window only
partially, push the window switch
down lightly and hold it. The window
will stop as soon as you release the
switch.
The AUTO function only works to
lower the driver’s window. To raise
the window, you must pull back on
the window switch and hold it until
the window reaches the desired
position.
The light inside the AUTO switch
comes on when you turn the ignition
switch to ON (II).
The MAIN switch controls power to
the passengers’ windows. When you
push in the MAIN switch, the
passengers’ windows cannot be
raised or lowered. The MAIN switch
does not affect the driver’s window.
To cancel this feature, push on the
switch again to get it to pop out.
Keep the MAIN switch pushed in
whenyouhavechildreninthecarso
they do not injure themselves by
operating the windows
unintentionally.
AUTO
Instruments and Controls
Power Windows
98
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Push the appropriate edge of the
adjustment switch to move the
mirrorright,left,up,ordown.
When you finish, move the
selector switch to the center (off)
position. This turns off the
adjustment switch so you can’t
move a mirror out of position by
accidentally bumping the switch.
Keeptheinsideandoutsidemirrors
clean and adjusted for best visibility.
Be sure to adjust the mirrors before
you start driving.
The inside mirror has day and night
positions. The night position reduces
glare from headlights behind you.
Flip the tab on the bottom edge of
the mirror to select the day or night
position.
Adjust the outside mirrors with the
adjustment switch on the left side of
the dashboard:
Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
Move the selector switch to L
(driver’s side) or R (passenger’s
side).
3.
4.1.
2.
CONTINUED
Adjusting the Power Mirrors
Mirrors
Instruments and Controls
99
SELECTOR SWITCH
ADJUSTMENT SWITCH
TAB
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To apply the parking brake, pull the
lever up fully. To release it, pull up
slightly, push the button, and lower
the lever. The parking brake light on
the instrument panel should go out
when the parking brake is fully
released (see page ).
The outside mirrors are heated to re-
move fog and frost. With the ignition
switchON(II),turnontheheaters
by pressing the button. The light in
the button comes on as a reminder.
Press the button again to turn the
heaters off.
62
On Canadian model
Parking Brake
Mirrors, Parking Brake
Instruments and Controls
100
PARKING BRAKE LEVER
Driving the car with the parking brake
applied can damage the rear brakes
and axles.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Open the glove box by squeezing the
handle. Close it with a firm push.
Glove Box
Instruments and Controls
101
An open glove box can cause
serious injury to your passenger
inacrash,evenifthe
passenger is wearing the seat
belt.
Always keep the glove box
closed while driving.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Be careful when you are using the
beverage holder. A spilled liquid that
is very hot can scald you or your
passengers. Spilled liquids can also
damage the upholstery, carpeting,
and electrical components in the
interior.
To open the beverage holder, push
on the top. The beverage holder lid
is spring-loaded and will
swing open. To close it, push it down
until it latches.
Squeeze the handle and slide the
console compartment lid backward
to access the compartment.
Beverage Holder, Console Compartment
Instruments and Controls
Console Compartment
102
Push
HANDLE
Main Menu
Table of Contents
It will not power an automotive type
cigarette lighter element.
To use the accessory power socket,
pull up the cover.
This socket is intended to supply
power for 12 volt DC accessories
that are rated 120 watts or less (10
amps). To power an accessory, the
ignition switch must be in
ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).
The coin box is located under the air
vent. To open the coin box, pull
down the lid. Close it with a firm
push.
The center pocket is located under
the audio system. To open the lid,
pull it down. Close it with a firm push.
CoinBox CenterPocket AccessoryPowerSocket
Coin Box, Center Pocket, Accessory Power Socket
Instruments and Controls
103
Pull up
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The ceiling light has a three-position
switch. In the OFF position, the light
does not come on. In the center
position, the ceiling light comes on
when you open any door. In the ON
position, the ceiling light stays on
continuously.
The ceiling light (with the switch in
the center position) comes on when
you remove the key from the ignition
switch. If you do not open a door, the
light stays on, then fades out in
about 10 seconds.
The ceiling light (with the switch in
the center position) also comes on
when you unlock the door with the
key, the lock tab on the driver’s door,
the master door lock switch, or the
remote transmitter (see page ).
If you leave any door open with the
keynotintheignitionswitch,the
ceiling light will go off after three
minutes.
Turn on the spotlight by pushing the
lens. Push the lens again to turn it
off. You can use the spotlights at all
times.
89
Ceiling Light Spotlights
Interior Lights
Instruments and Controls
104
OFF
ON
DOOR ACTIVATED
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Your car also has a courtesy light in
the ignition switch. This light comes
on when you unlock the driver’s door
or remove the key from the ignition
switch.
It fades out about six seconds after
the door is closed.
Interior Lights
Instruments and Controls
Ignition Switch Light
105
Main Menu
Table of Contents
106
Main Menu
Heating and Cooling
.............(Automatic System) . 108
................Automatic Operation . 110
.....................Manual Operation . 111
Sunlight Sensor/Temperature
...................................Sensor . 117
................................Audio System . 118
.................Operating the Radio . 118
.................Adjusting the Sound . 122
............Audio System Lighting . 123
..............................Digital Clock . 123
....................Radio Frequencies . 124
........................Radio Reception . 125
.........Operating the CD Player . 127
.....Operating the CD Changer . 129
.......Protecting Compact Discs . 130
....CD Player Error Indications . 131
CD Changer Error
.............................Indications . 132
Operating the Cassette
.....................................Player . 133
............Tape Search Functions . 134
Caring for the Cassette
.....................................Player . 136
............................Theft Protection . 137
...............................Cruise Control . 139
The heating and air conditioning
systems in your Honda provide a
comfortable driving environment in
all weather conditions.
The standard audio system has
many features. This section de-
scribes those features and how to
use them. (If you selected an
optional audio system, refer to the
operating instructions that came
with it.)
Your Honda has an anti-theft audio
system that requires a code number
to enable it.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Comfort and Convenience Features
107
Main Menu
The heating and cooling system in
your Honda has full heating,
ventilation, and air conditioning
capabilities. In combination with the
air conditioning, the system regu-
lates the interior temperature you
select. The system also adjusts the
fanspeedandairflowdirection
automatically depending on the set
temperature.
The direction of air flow from the
vents in the center and each side of
the dashboard is adjustable.
To adjust the air flow from each vent,
move the vent up-and-down and
move the tab side-to-side.
Thesideventscanbeopenedand
closed with the dials underneath
them.
Heating and Cooling (Automatic System)
Comfort and Convenience Features
108
CENTER VENTS
TAB
SIDE VENT
Open
Close
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The heating and cooling system
draws air through the exterior vents
at the bottom of the windshield.
Keep these vents clear of leaves and
other debris.
The engine must be running for the
heater and air conditioning to
generate hot and cold air. The heater
uses engine coolant to warm the air.
If the engine is cold, it will be several
minutes before you feel warm air
coming from the system.
Your car has a flow-through
ventilation system. Air enters the car
through vents in front of the
windshield. It circulates through the
interior then exits through vents
near the rear window. This system
provides fresh air even when the car
is standing still. To bring in outside
air, select the Fresh Air mode. Set
the fan at a comfortable speed.
Heating and Cooling (Automatic System)
Comfort and Convenience Features
Ventilation
109
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To use the heating and cooling
system in automatic mode, set the
system as follows.
Set the fan control dial to AUTO.
Set the mode control dial to AUTO.
Set the desired temperature by
turning the temperature control
dial. Turning this dial clockwise
increases the temperature of the
air flow.
Select Fresh Air mode. The
indicator in the button should be
off.
Turn on the A/C by pressing the
button for cooling and dehumidi-
fying. The indicator in the button
lights.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Heating and Cooling (Automatic System)
Comfort and Convenience Features
Automatic Operation
110
MODE CONTROL DIAL
TEMPERATURE
CONTROL DIAL
FAN CONTROL DIAL RECIRCULATION BUTTON
AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON
ECON BUTTON
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To heat or cool the interior faster,
select Recirculation mode and set
the temperature control dial to the
upper or lower limit.
The system runs of full cooling or
heating only. It does not regulate the
interior temperature. When the
temperature is set between the lower
and upper limits, the system
regulates the interior temperature to
the set value.
TurningthefancontroldialtoOFF
shuts the heating and cooling system
completely off. Keep the system
completely off only for short periods.
To keep stale air and mustiness from
collecting, you should have the fan
running at all times.
When the system is in full AUTO
mode, the Auto Idle Stop function
will not be activated.
You can manually set the system
controls for ventilation, air condi-
tioning, heating, air flow direction,
and fan speed in various
combinations.
When you press the ECON button
with the fan speed control dial on,
the Auto Idle Stop works only if the
outside temperature is above 41°F
(5°C). The indicator in the button
lights when the ECON is on. With
the ECON on, you can get better fuel
economy. You can select the ECON
mode with the A/C on or off.
In this mode with A/C on, you may
feel a slight reduction in cooling
efficiency. If you want more cooling,
select AUTO (see page ).
The system turns off the ECON
mode when you select AUTO,
,or .
Pressing the A/C button turns the
air conditioning ON and OFF. The
indicator in the button lights when
the A/C is ON.
When you turn the A/C off, the
system cannot regulate the inside
temperature if you set the dial below
the outside air temperature.
With A/C on, use the temperature
control dial to adjust the temperature
of the air flow to a comfortable
setting.
110
CONTINUED
Heating and Cooling (Automatic System)
Comfort and Convenience Features
Manual Operation
ECON Button
Air Conditioning (A/C) Button
111
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Air conditioning also removes mois-
ture from the air as it operates. You
can use it to defog the windows
quickly in cool or damp weather.
Used in combination with the heater,
it also makes the interior warm and
dry.
Air conditioning places an extra load
on the engine. Watch the engine
coolant temperature gauge (see page
) when using the A/C in heavy
traffic or driving up long hills. If the
reading reaches near the red mark,
turn off the air conditioning until the
gauge reads normally.
71
Heating and Cooling (Automatic System)
Comfort and Convenience Features
112
MODE CONTROL DIAL
TEMPERATURE
CONTROL DIAL
FAN CONTROL DIAL RECIRCULATION BUTTON
AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON
ECON BUTTON
Main Menu
Table of Contents
This button controls the source of
the air going into the system. When
the indicator in this button is lit, air
from the car’s interior is sent
through the system again (Recircula-
tion mode). When the indicator is off,
air is brought in from outside the car
(Fresh Air mode).
Use Recirculation mode to heat or
cool the interior more quickly, or to
keep out smoke and dust. Leaving
the system in the Recirculation mode
with the A/C off can cause the
windows to fog up. Switch to Fresh
Air mode as soon as the interior
reaches a comfortable temperature
or the outside smoky, dusty con-
dition clears.
You can manually select the fan
speed by turning the fan speed
control dial. Turning this dial
clockwise increases the fan speed,
which increases air flow.
When the dial is set to AUTO, the
system controls the fan speed
automatically.
When the fan speed control dial is
off, the Auto Idle Stop works under
certain conditions (see pages
and ).
Use the MODE control dial to select
the vents the air flows from. Some
air will flow from the dashboard
corner vents in all modes.
In AUTO mode, the system controls
the air flow direction automatically
between the dashboard vents and
the floor vents.
163
171
CONTINUED
Heating and Cooling (Automatic System)
Comfort and Convenience Features
Recirculation Button Fan Speed Mode Control Dial
113
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The main air flow comes out
of the dashboard vents.
The main air flow is divided
between the dashboard vents and
the floor vents.
Heating and Cooling (Automatic System)
Comfort and Convenience Features
114
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The main air flow comes
from the floor vents.
When you select , the system
automatically switches to Fresh Air
mode.
The main air flow is divided
between the floor vents and de-
froster vents at the base of the wind-
shield.
When you select , the system
automatically switches to Fresh Air
mode, turns on the A/C, and turns
off the ECON mode.
CONTINUED
Heating and Cooling (Automatic System)
Comfort and Convenience Features
115
Main Menu
Table of Contents
〜〜
The directs the main air flow
to the windshield for faster
defrosting or defogging. It also
overrides any MODE selection you
may have made. When you select
, the A/C turns on
automatically and the system selects
Fresh Air mode and turns off the
ECON mode. To defrost or defog
more quickly, turn the temperature
control dial to 82°F 86°F (28°C
30°C). Select and set the fan
speed to high. To turn off defrost or
defog, turn the mode control dial to
another mode. When you switch to
another mode from , the A/C
stayson.PresstheA/Cbuttonto
turn it off.
If there is actual frost on the win-
dows, first select the Recirculation
mode. If the windows are fogged,
select the Fresh Air mode. Warmed
air will then flow from the wind-
shield and side defroster vents.
Heating and Cooling (Automatic System)
Comfort and Convenience Features
116
MODE CONTROL
DIAL
TEMPERATURE
CONTROL DIAL
FAN CONTROL
DIAL
RECIRCULATION
BUTTON
AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON
ECON BUTTON
Main Menu
Table of Contents
When you select or ,
the Auto Idle Stop function will not
activate.
To regulate the interior temperature,
the system has two sensors. A sun-
light sensor is located in the top of
the dashboard and a temperature
sensor is next to the steering column.
Do not cover the sensors or spill any
liquidonthem.
Heating and Cooling (Automatic System)
Comfort and Convenience Features
Sunlight Sensor/Temperature
Sensor
117
SULIGHT SENSOR
TEMPERATURE SENSOR
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The band and frequency that the
radio was last tuned to is displayed.
To change bands, press the AM/FM
button. On the FM band, ST will be
displayed if the station is broadcast-
ing in stereo. Stereo reproduction on
AM is not available.
The ignition switch must be in
ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) to
operate the audio system. Turn the
system on by pushing the PWR/
VOL knob or the AM/FM button.
Adjust the volume by turning the
PWR/VOL knob.
Your Honda’s audio system provides
clear reception on both AM and FM
bands, while the preset buttons allow
you to easily select your favorite
stations.
The anti-theft feature will disable the
system if it is disconnected from the
car’s battery. To get the system
working again, you must enter a
code number (see page ).
137
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
AM/FM/CD Audio System
Operating the Radio
118
AM/FM BUTTON
STEREO INDICATOR
SCAN INDICATOR
AUTO
SELECT
BUTTON
SCAN
BUTTON
PRESET BUTTONS
SEEK BAR
PWR/VOL KNOB
TUNE KNOB
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
−−
CONTINUED
You can use any of five methods to
find radio stations on the selected
band: TUNE, SEEK, SCAN, AUTO
SELECT, and the Preset buttons.
Use the TUNE knob to
tune the radio to a desired frequency.
Turn the TUNE knob to the right to
tune to a higher frequency, or to the
left to tune to a lower frequency.
Turn the knob right or left until the
display reaches the desired
frequency.
The SEEK function
searches the band for a station with
a strong signal. To activate it, press
theSEEKbaroneitherthe or
side, then release it.
Depending on which side you press,
the system scans upward or down-
ward from the current frequency. It
stops when it finds a station with a
strong signal.
The SCAN function
samples all the stations with strong
signals on the selected band. To
activate it, press the SCAN button,
then release it. You will see SCAN in
the display. The system will scan up
the band for a station with a strong
signal. When it finds one, it will stop
and play that station for
approximately five seconds. If you do
nothing, the system will then scan
for the next strong station and play
that for five seconds. When it plays a
station that you want to continue
listening to, press the SCAN button
again.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
TUNE
SEEK SCAN
119
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total
of six stations on AM and twelve
on FM.
Pick the Preset button you want
for that station. Press the button
and hold it until you hear a beep.
Select the desired band, AM or
FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store
two frequencies with each Preset
button.
To store a frequency:
Once a station’s frequency is stored,
simply press and release the proper
preset button to tune to it.
The preset frequencies will be lost if
your car’s battery goes dead, is
disconnected, or the radio fuse is
removed.
You can store the
frequencies of your favorite radio
stations in the six preset buttons.
Each button will store one frequency
on the AM band, and two
frequencies on the FM band.
UsetheTUNE,SEEK,orSCAN
function to tune the radio to a
desired station.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
Preset
120
AM/FM BUTTON
STEREO INDICATOR
SCAN INDICATOR
AUTO
SELECT
BUTTON
SCAN
BUTTON
TUNE KNOB
PRESET BUTTONS
SEEK BAR
PWR/VOL KNOB
Main Menu
Table of Contents
− If you are
traveling far from home and can no
longer receive the stations you
preset, you can use the Auto Select
feature to find stations in the local
area.
To activate Auto Select, press the
A. SEL button. A. SEL will flash in
the display, and the system will go
into scan mode for several seconds.
It automatically scans both bands,
looking for stations with strong
signals. It stores the frequencies of
six AM stations and twelve FM
stations in the preset buttons. You
can then use the preset buttons to
select those stations.
Auto Select does not erase the
frequencies that you preset pre-
viously. When you return home, turn
off Auto Select by pressing the
A. SEL button. The preset buttons
will then select the frequencies you
originally set.
If you are in a remote area, Auto
Select may not find six strong AM
stations or twelve strong FM stations.
If this happens, you will see a ‘‘0’’
displayed when you press any preset
button that does not have a station
stored.
If you do not like the stations Auto
Select has stored, you can store
other frequencies in the preset
buttons. Use the TUNE, SEEK, or
SCAN function to find the desired
frequencies, then store them in the
selected preset buttons as described
previously.
AUTO SELECT
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
121
AM/FM BUTTON
AUTO SELECT INDICATOR
AUTO
SELECT
BUTTON
SCAN
BUTTON
PWR/VOL KNOB
SEEK BAR
PRESET BUTTONS
TUNE KNOB
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
− The system will automatically return
the display to the selected audio
mode about five seconds after you
stop adjusting a mode with the
TUNE knob.
These two
modes adjust the strength of the
sound coming from each speaker.
BAL adjusts the side-to-side strength,
while FAD adjusts the front-to-back
strength.
Use these modes to
adjust the tone to your liking. Select
TRE or BAS by pressing the TUNE
knob. Adjust the desired mode by
turning the TUNE knob.
The displayed number shows you
the current setting.
When the adjustment level reaches
the center, you will see ‘‘ ’’.
Bass, Treble, Balance, and Fader are
each adjustable. You select which of
these you want to adjust by pressing
the TUNE knob. The mode changes
fromBAStoTREtoFAdtoBAL,
and then back to the selected audio
mode, each time you press the
TUNE knob. Each mode is shown in
the display as it changes.
Select BAL or FAd by pressing the
TUNE knob. Adjust the Balance or
Fader to your liking by turning the
TUNE knob.
The displayed number shows you
the current setting.
When the adjustment level reaches
the center, you will see ‘‘ ’’.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Audio System
Adjusting the Sound
Balance/Fader
Treble/Bass
122
Adjustment Level
TUNE KNOB
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The display of your audio system
usually shows the time when the
ignition switch is in ACCESSORY (I)
or ON (II). It shows the operation
mode of the radio, CD player, or
optional CD changer/cassette player
when you operate them, and goes
back to the time display after five
seconds.
You can use the instrument panel
brightness control knob to adjust the
illumination of the audio system (see
page ). The audio system
illuminates when the parking lights
are on, even if the radio is turned off.
If an error occurs while operating
the CD player or optional CD
changer, the display will show the
error code and will not switch to the
time display until the error is
corrected (see pages and ).
You can set the time only when the
clock is displayed.
To set the hours, press the H (Preset
4) button while pressing the CLOCK
(SCAN/RPT) button. Press and hold
the H button until the hour advances
to the desired time.
To set the minutes, press the M
(Preset 5) button while pressing the
CLOCK (SCAN/RPT) button. Press
andholdtheMbuttonuntilthe
minutes numbers advance to the
desired time.
77
131 132
CONTINUED
Audio System Lighting
Digital Clock
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
123
CLOCK BUTTON
H BUTTON
M BUTTON
RESET BUTTON
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Your Honda’s radio can receive the
complete AM and FM bands.
Those bands cover these frequen-
cies:
AM band:
530 to 1,710 kilohertz
FM band:
87.7 to 107.9 megahertz
Radio stations on the AM band are
assigned frequencies at least ten
kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550).
Stations 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 could
display a frequency of 100.9 even
though the announcer may identify
the station as ‘‘FM101.’’
For example:
1:06 would RESET to 1:00.
1:52 would RESET to 2:00.
If your car’s battery is disconnected
or goes dead, the time setting will be
lost. To set the time again, follow the
setting procedure.
You can quickly set the time to the
nearest hour. If the displayed time is
before the half hour, the clock is set
back to the previous hour by
pressing and holding the CLOCK
(SCAN/RPT) button, then pressing
the R (Preset 6) button. If the
displayed time is after the half hour,
the clock is set forward to the
beginning of the next hour.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
Radio Frequencies
124
Main Menu
Table of Contents
CONTINUED
Driving very near the transmitter of
a station that is broadcasting on a
frequency close to the frequency of
the station you are listening to can
also affect your radio’s reception.
You may temporarily hear both
stations,orhearonlythestationyou
are close to.
A radio station’s signal gets weaker
as you get farther away from its
transmitter. If you are listening to an
AM station, you will notice the sound
volume becoming weaker, and the
stationdriftinginandout.Ifyouare
listening to an FM station, you will
see the stereo indicator flickering off
and on as the signal weakens.
Eventually, the stereo indicator will
go off and the sound will fade
completely as you get out of range of
the station’s signal.
How well your Honda’s radio
receives stations is dependent on
many factors, such as the distance
from the station’s transmitter,
nearby large objects, and atmos-
pheric conditions.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
Radio Reception
125
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Radio signals, especially on the FM
band, are deflected by large objects
such as buildings and hills. Your
radio then receives both the direct
signal from the station’s transmitter,
and the deflected signal. This causes
the sound to distort or flutter. This is
a main cause of poor radio reception
in city driving.
Radio reception can be affected by
atmospheric conditions such as
thunderstorms, high humidity, and
even sunspots. You may be able to
receive a distant radio station one
day and not receive it the next day
because of a change in conditions.
Electrical interference from passing
vehicles and stationary sources can
cause temporary reception problems.
As required by the FCC:
Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
126
Main Menu
Table of Contents
CONTINUED
You operate the CD player with the
same controls used for the radio.
With the ignition switch in
ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II), insert
the disc into the CD slot. Push the
disc in halfway, the drive will pull it
in the rest of the way and begin to
play. The number of the track that is
playing is shown in the display.
You can also play 3-inch (8-cm) discs
without using an adapter ring. Play
only standard round discs. Odd-
shaped CDs may jam in the drive or
cause other problems.
For best results when using CD-R
discs, use only high quality discs
labeled for audio use. When
recording a CD-R, the recording
must be closed in order for the disc
to be used by CD players. CD-RW
discs will not work in this unit.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
Operating the CD Player
127
CD/TAPE BUTTON
AM/FM BUTTON
CD SLOT
REPEAT INDICATOR
RANDOM BUTTON
EJECT
BUTTON
PWR/VOL KNOB
SEEK/SKIP BAR
RANDOM INDICATOR
SCAN/REPEAT BUTTON
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
−
Each time you press and release the
side of the SEEK/SKIP bar,
the system skips forward to the
beginning of the next track. Press
the sidetoskipbackwardtothe
beginning of the current track. Press
it again to skip to the beginning of
the previous track.
You can use the SEEK/SKIP bar
while a disc is playing to select
passages and change tracks.
To move rapidly within a track, press
andholdtheSEEK/SKIPbar.Press
the side to move forward. You
will see CUE in the display. Press the
side to move backward. You
will see REW displayed. Release the
bar when the system reaches the
point you want.
To activate the Repeat
feature, press and release the RPT
button. You will see RPT in the
display. The system continuously
replays the current track. Press the
RPT button again to turn it off.
This feature,
when activated, plays the tracks on
the CD in random order, rather than
in the order they are recorded on the
CD. To activate Random Play, press
the RDM button. You will see RDM
in the display. The system will then
select and play tracks randomly.
This continues until you deactivate
RandomPlaybypressingtheRDM
button again.
If you eject the disc, but do not
remove it from the slot, the system
will automatically reload the disc
after 15 seconds and put the CD
player in pause mode. To begin
playing the disc, press the CD button.
Press the eject button to remove the
disc from the drive.
If you turn the system off while a CD
is playing, either with the PWR/VOL
knob or by turning off the ignition,
the disc will stay in the drive. When
youturnthesystembackon,theCD
will begin playing where it left off.
You can switch to the radio while a
CD is playing by pressing the AM/
FM button. Press the CD button to
return to playing the CD. The CD
will begin playing where it left off.
When the system reaches the end of
the disc, it will return to the begin-
ning and play that disc again.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
REPEAT
RANDOM PLAY
128
Main Menu
Table of Contents
＋−
＋
−
Load the desired CDs in the
magazine and load the magazine in
the changer according to the
instructions that came with the unit.
Play only standard round discs. Odd-
shaped CDs may jam in the drive or
cause other problems.
Ifyouejectthediscinthein-dash
CD while it is playing, the system
will automatically switch to the CD
changer and begin play where it left
off. If there are no CDs in the
changer, the display will flash. You
will have to select another mode
(AM or FM) with the button.
A trunk-mounted Compact Disc
changer is available from your dealer.
It holds up to six discs, providing
several hours of continuous
entertainment. You operate this CD
changer with the same controls used
for the in-dash CD player.
If you load a CD in the in-dash player
while the changer is playing a CD,
the system will stop the changer and
begin playing the in-dash CD. To
select the changer again, press the
CD button. Play will begin where it
left off. Use the CD button to switch
between the player and the changer.
To select a different disc, press the
DISC (Preset 6) or DISC
(Preset 5) button. The next disc in
the changer is loaded and played
when you press the DISC button.
DISC loads and plays the previous
disc. If you select an empty slot in
the magazine, the changer will, after
finding that slot empty, try to load
the CD in the next slot. This
continues until it finds a CD to load
and play.
To select the CD changer, press the
CD button. The disc and track
numbers will be displayed.
For best results when using CD-R
discs, use only high quality discs
labeled for audio use. When
recording a CD-R, the recording
must be closed in order for the disc
to be used by CD players. CD-RW
discs will not work in this unit.
To use the SKIP, REPEAT, and
RANDOM functions, refer to the in-
dash player operating instructions.
When you switch back to CD mode,
the system selects the same unit (in-
dash or changer) that was playing
when you switched out of CD mode.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
Operating the CD Changer
(Optional)
129
Main Menu
Table of Contents
When a CD is not being played, store
it in its case to protect it from dust
and other contamination. To prevent
warpage, keep CDs out of direct
sunlight and extreme heat.
To clean a disc, use a clean soft cloth.
Wipe across the disc from the center
to the outside edge.
A new CD may be rough on the
inner and outer edges. The small
plastic pieces causing this roughness
can flake off and fall on the re-
cording surface of the disc, causing
skipping or other problems. Remove
these pieces by rubbing the inner
and outer edges with the side of a
pencil or pen.
Never try to insert foreign objects in
the CD player or the magazine.
Handle a CD by its edges; never
touch either surface. Do not place
stabilizer rings or labels on the CD.
These and contamination from
fingerprints, liquids, and felt-tip pens
can cause the CD to not play
properly, or possibly jam in the drive.
Protecting Compact Discs
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
130
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If you see an error indication in the
display while operating the CD
player,findthecauseinthechartto
the right. If you cannot clear the
error indication, take the car to your
Honda dealer.
Indication SolutionCause
Press the EJECT button and pull out the disc.
Check if the disc is inserted correctly in the CD
player.
Make sure the disc is not scratched or damaged.
Press the EJECT button and pull out the disc.
Check the disc for damage or deformation.
If the CD cannot be pulled out or the error
indication does not disappear after the disc is
ejected, see your Honda dealer.
Do not try to force the disc out of the player.
Will disappear when the temperature returns to
normal.
FOCUS Error
Mechanical Error
High temperature
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
CD Player Error Indications
131
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If you see an error indication in the
display while operating the CD
changer, find the cause in the chart
to the right. If you cannot clear the
error indication, take the car to your
Honda dealer.
Indication SolutionCause
Press the magazine eject button and pull out
the magazine, check for error indication. Insert
the magazine again. If the code does not
disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,
consult your Honda dealer.
Insert CD.
Press the magazine eject button and pull out
the magazine, check for error indication. Insert
the magazine again. If the code does not
disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,
consult your Honda dealer.
Will disappear when the temperature returns to
normal.
Insert CD magazine.
FOCUS Error
No CD in the CD
magazine
Mechanical Error
High temperature
No CD magazine in the
CD changer
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
CD Changer Error Indications
132
Main Menu
Table of Contents
＊
＊
CONTINUED
The cassette system features Dolby
noise reduction, automatic sensing of
chromium-dioxide (CrO ) tape, and
autoreverse for continuous play.
To operate the optional cassette
player, the ignition switch must be in
ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) and the
audio system must be on.
Make sure the tape opening on the
cassette is facing to the right, then
insert the cassette most of the way
into the slot. The system will pull it
in the rest of the way, and begin to
play.
2
Dolby noise reduction manufactured under
license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpo-
ration. ‘‘DOLBY’’ and the double-D symbol
are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories
Licensing Corporation.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
Operating the Cassette Player
(Optional)
133
AM/FM BUTTON
CD/TAPE BUTTON
REPEAT INDICATOR
NOISE REDUCTION INDICATOR
PWR/VOL KNOB
SKIP BAR
REW BUTTON
PLAY/PROG BUTTON
FF BUTTON
NR BUTTON
REPEAT
BUTTON
Main Menu
Table of Contents
▲
−
With a cassette playing, you can use
the FF, REW, SKIP, or REPEAT
function to find a desired program.
The tape direction indicator will light
to show you which side of the
cassette is playing. The indicates
thesideyouinsertedfacingupward
is now playing. If you want to play
the other side, press the PLAY/
PROG button.
Dolby noise reduction turns on when
you insert a cassette. The indi-
cator will light in the display. If the
tape was not recorded with Dolby
noise reduction, turn it off by
pressing the NR button.
Noise reduction remains off until you
turn it on by pressing the button
again.
When the system reaches the end of
the tape, it will automatically reverse
direction and play the other side. If
you want to remove the cassette
from the drive, press the EJECT
button on the cassette player.
If you turn the system off while a
tape is playing, either with the PWR/
VOL knob or by turning off the
ignition, the cassette will remain in
the drive. When you turn the system
back on, the cassette player will be in
pause mode. To begin playing, press
the PLAY/PROG button.
To switch to the radio or CD player
while a tape is playing, press the
AM/FM, or CD/TAPE button. To
change back to the cassette player,
press the CD/TAPE button.
Fast Forward and Re-
wind move the tape rapidly. To re-
wind the tape, push the REW button.
You will see REW in the display. To
fast forward the tape, push the FF
button. You will see FF displayed.
Press the PLAY/PROG button to
take the system out of rewind or fast
forward. If the system reaches the
end of the tape while in fast forward
or rewind, it automatically stops that
function, reverses direction, and
begins to play.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
Tape Search Functions
FF/REW
134
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−− The SKIP and REPEAT functions
use silent periods on the tape to find
the end of a song or passage. These
features may not work to your
satisfaction if there is almost no gap
between selections, a high noise
level between selections, or a silent
period in the middle of a selection.
The Repeat function
continuously replays the current
song or passage. Press the RPT
button to activate it; you will see RPT
displayed as a reminder. When the
system reaches the end of the song
or passage currently playing, it will
automatically go into rewind. When
it senses the beginning of the same
song or passage, the system returns
to PLAY mode. It will continue to
repeat this same program until you
deactivate REPEAT by pressing the
button again.
The Skip Function allows
you to find the beginning of a song
or passage. To find the beginning of
the song or passage currently
playing, push the lower part of the
SKIP bar. You will see REW flashing
in the display as the tape rewinds. To
find the beginning of the next song,
push the upper part of the SKIP bar.
You will see FF flashing in the
display as the tape fast forwards.
When the system finds the
beginning of a song or passage, it
goes back to PLAY mode.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
REPEATSKIP
135
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If you do not clean the cassette
player regularly, it may eventually
become impossible to remove the
contamination with a normal
cleaning kit.
Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes.
Cassettes longer than that use
thinner tape that may break or jam
the drive.
Look at the cassette before you
insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten
it by turning a hub with a pencil or
your finger.
The cassette player picks up dirt and
oxides from the tape. This contami-
nation builds up over time and
causes the sound quality to degrade.
To prevent this, you should clean the
player after every 30 hours of use.
Your dealer has a cleaning kit
available.
Never try to insert foreign objects
into the cassette player.
When they are not in use, store
cassettes in their cases to protect
them from dust and moisture. Never
place cassettes where they will be
exposed to direct sunlight, high heat,
or high humidity. If a cassette is
exposed to extreme heat or cold, let
it reach a moderate temperature
before inserting it in the player.
If the label is peeling off, remove it
from the cassette or it could cause
the cassette to jam in the player.
Never try to insert a warped or
damaged cassette in the player.
If you see the error indication
‘‘ ’’ on the display, press
the EJECT button and remove the
cassette from the unit. Make sure
thetapeisnotdamaged.Ifthe
cassette will not eject or the error
indication stays on after the cassette
ejects, take the car to your Honda
dealer.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
Caring for the Cassette Player
136
Main Menu
Table of Contents
You will have to store your favorite
stations in the Preset buttons after
the system begins working. Your
original settings were lost when
power was disconnected.
If your car’s battery is disconnected
or goes dead, or the radio fuse is
removed, the audio system will
disable itself. If this happens, you
will see ‘‘ ’’ in the frequency
display the next time you turn on the
system. Use the Preset buttons to
enter the five-digit code. If it is
entered correctly, the radio will start
playing.
If you make a mistake entering the
code, do not start over or try to
correct your mistake. Complete the
five-digit sequence, then enter the
correct code. You have ten tries to
enter the correct code. If you are
unsuccessful in ten attempts, you
must then leave the system on for
one hour before trying again.
Your car’s audio system will disable
itself if it is disconnected from
electrical power for any reason. To
make it work again, the user must
enter a specific five-digit code in the
Preset buttons. Because there are
hundreds of number combinations
possible from five digits, making the
system work without knowing the
exact code is nearly impossible.
Youshouldhavereceivedacardthat
lists your audio system’s code
number and serial number. It is best
tostorethiscardinasafeplaceat
home. In addition, you should write
the audio system’s serial number in
this Owner’s Manual. If you should
happen to lose the card, you must
obtain the code number from your
Honda dealer. To do this, you will
need the system’s serial number.
CONTINUED
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
Theft Protection
137
Main Menu
Table of Contents
After you have entered the audio
system’s code number correctly, the
serial number will not be displayed.When the audio system disables
itself, you can see the eight-digit
audio system serial number on the
display. To display the serial
number:
Turn the ignition switch to
ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).
Push the PWR/VOL knob to turn
on the audio system while
pressing the Preset 1 and 6
buttons at the same time.
You will see the first 4-digit
number on the display for five
seconds, then the next 4-digit
number is shown for five seconds.
You will see 8-digit serial number
in total. This procedure is repeated
once again.
1.
2.
3.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features
Displaying Audio System’s Serial
Number
138
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Accelerate to the desired cruising
speedabove25mph(40km/h).
Push in the Cruise Control Master
Switch to the left of the steering
column. The indicator in the
switch will light.
Cruise control allows you to maintain
asetspeedabove25mph(40km/h)
without keeping your foot on the
accelerator pedal. It should be used
for cruising on straight, open
highways. It is not recommended for
conditions such as city driving,
winding roads, slippery roads, heavy
rain, or bad weather. You should
have full control of the car under
those conditions.
1.
2.
CONTINUED
Using the Cruise Control
Cruise Control
Comfort and Convenience Features
139
Improper use of the cruise
control can lead to a crash.
Use the cruise control only
when traveling on open
highways in good weather.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
You can increase the set cruising
speed in any of these ways:
Press and hold the RESUME/
accel button. The car will acceler-
ate. When you reach the desired
cruising speed, release the button.
Press and release the SET/decel
buttononthesteeringwheel.The
CRUISE CONTROL light on the
instrument panel comes on to
show the system is now activated.
Thecruisecontrolmaynotholdthe
set speed when you are going up and
down hills. If your speed increases
going down a hill, use the brakes to
slow down to the desired speed. This
will cancel the cruise control. To
resume the set speed, press the
RESUME/accel button. The
CRUISE CONTROL light on the
instrument panel comes on.
When climbing a steep hill, the
automatic transmission may
downshift to hold the set speed.
To increase your speed in very
small amounts, tap the RESUME/
accel button repeatedly. Each time
you do this, your car will speed up
about 1 mph (1.6 km/h).
Push on the accelerator pedal. Ac-
celerate to the desired cruising
speed and press the SET/decel
button.
3.
Changing the Set Speed
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cruise Control
140
RESUME/
accel
SET/decel
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Even with the cruise control turned
on, you can still use the accelerator
pedal to speed up for passing. After
completing the pass, take your foot
off the accelerator pedal. The car
will return to the set cruising speed.
Resting your foot on the brake or
clutch pedal will cause the cruise
control to cancel.
You can decrease the set cruising
speed in any of these ways:
Press and hold the SET/decel
button. The car will decelerate.
Release the button when you
reach the desired speed.
To slow down in very small
amounts, tap the SET/decel
button repeatedly. Each time you
do this, your car will slow down
about 1 mph (1.6 km/h).
Tap the brake or clutch pedal
lightly with your foot. The
CRUISE CONTROL light on the
instrument panel will go out.
When the car slows to the desired
speed, press the SET/decel button.
The car will then maintain the
desired speed.
Tap the brake or clutch pedal.
Youcancancelthecruisecontrolin
any of these ways:
Push the CANCEL button on the
steering wheel.
Press the Cruise Control Master
Switch.
CONTINUED
Cancelling the Cruise Control
Cruise Control
Comfort and Convenience Features
141
CANCEL
BUTTON
Main Menu
Table of Contents
When you push the CANCEL button,
or tap the brake or clutch pedal, the
CRUISE CONTROL light on the
instrument panel will go out and the
car will begin to slow down. You can
use the accelerator pedal in the
normal way.
The system remembers the
previously-set cruising speed. To
return to that speed, accelerate to
above25mph(40km/h),thenpress
the RESUME/accel button. The
CRUISE CONTROL light comes on,
and the car will accelerate to the
same cruising speed as before.
Pressing the Cruise Control Master
Switch turns the system completely
off and erases the previous cruising
speed from memory. To use the
system again, refer to
.
Cruise Control
Comfort and Convenience Features
Using the
Cruise Control
142
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Before you begin driving your Honda,
youshouldknowwhatgasolineto
use, and how to check the levels of
important fluids. You also need to
know how to properly store luggage
or packages. The information in this
section will help you. If you plan to
add any accessories to your car,
please read the information in this
section first.
.............................Break-in Period . 144
.........................................Gasoline . 144
.........Service Station Procedures . 145
................Filling the Fuel Tank . 145
....................Opening the Hood . 146
...............................Oil Check . 148
.........Engine Coolant Check . 149
...............................Fuel Economy . 150
.....................Vehicle Condition . 150
...........................Driving Habits . 150
...Accessories and Modifications . 152
.............................Carrying Cargo . 154
Before Driving
Before Driving
143
Main Menu
During this period:
Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid
acceleration.
Avoidhardbraking.Newbrakes
need to be broken-in by moderate
use for the first 200 miles (300
km).
Your Honda is designed to operate
on unleaded gasoline with a pump
octane number of 86 or higher. Use
of a lower octane gasoline can cause
a persistent, heavy metallic rapping
noise in the engine that can lead to
mechanical damage.
We recommend gasolines containing
detergent additives that help prevent
fuel system and engine deposits.
In Canada, some gasolines contain
an octane-enhancing additive called
MMT. If you use such gasolines,
your emission control system
performance may deteriorate and
the Malfunction Indicator Lamp on
your instrument panel may turn on.
If this happens, contact your
authorized Honda dealer for service.
Help assure your car’s future
reliability and performance by paying
extra attention to how you drive
during the first 600 miles (1,000 km).
Using gasoline containing lead will
damage your car’s emissions
controls. This contributes to air
pollution.
Youshouldfollowthesesamere-
commendations with an overhauled
or exchanged engine, or when the
brakes are relined.
Do not change the oil until the
recommended time or mileage
intervalshowninthemaintenance
schedule.
Break-in Period, Gasoline
Before Driving
Break-in Period Gasoline
144
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Because the fuel fill cap is on the
driver’s side of the car, park with
that side closest to the service
station pumps.
Open the fuel fill door by pushing
onthehandletotheleftofthe
driver’s seat.
Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.
You may hear a hissing sound as
pressure inside the tank escapes.
Place the cap in the holder on the
fuel fill door.
Stop filling the tank after the fuel
nozzle automatically clicks off. Do
not try to ‘‘top off’’ the tank, leave
some room for the fuel to expand
with temperature changes.
Your car has an on-board refueling
vapor recovery system to help
keep fuel vapors from going into
the atmosphere. If the fuel nozzle
keeps clicking off even though the
tank is not full, there may be a
problem with this system. Consult
your dealer.
1.
2.
3.
4.
CONTINUED
Filling the Fuel Tank
Service Station Procedures
Before Driving
145
Push
HOLDER
FUEL FILL CAP
Gasoline is highly flammable
and explosive. You can be
burned or seriously injured
when handling fuel.
Stop the engine and keep
heat, sparks, and flame away.
Handle fuel only outdoors.
Wipe up spills immediately.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Shift to Park or Neutral and set
the parking brake. Pull the hood
release handle located under the
lower left corner of the dashboard.
The hood will pop up slightly.
Screw the fuel fill cap back on,
tighten it until it clicks several
times. If you do not properly
tighten the cap, the Malfunction
Indicator Lamp may come on (see
page ).
Push the fuel fill door closed until
it latches.
Standing in front of the car, put
your fingers between the front
edge of the hood and the front
grille. The hood latch handle is
above the ‘‘H’’ logo. Push this
handle up until it releases the
hood. Lift the hood.
1. 2.
5.
6.
273
Service Station Procedures
Before Driving
Opening the Hood
146
HOOD
RELEASE
HANDLE
LATCH
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If you can open the hood without
lifting the hood latch handle, or the
hood latch handle moves stiffly or
does not spring back as before, the
mechanism should be cleaned and
lubricated (see page ).
Pull the support rod out of its clip
by holding the grip and insert the
end into the hole on the front left
side of 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 (30 cm) above the
fender,thenletitdrop.
After closing the hood, make sure it
is securely latched.
3.
212
CONTINUED
Service Station Procedures
Before Driving
147
GRIP
SUPPORT ROD
CLIP
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Wipe the dipstick with a clean
cloth or paper towel.
Insert it all the way back in its tube.
Remove the dipstick (orange
handle).
Check the engine oil level every time
you fill the car with fuel. Wait a few
minutes after turning the engine off
before you check the oil.
2. 3.
1.
Oil Check
Service Station Procedures
Before Driving
148
DIPSTICK
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Remove the dipstick again and
check the level. It should be
between the upper and lower
marks.
Look at the coolant level in the
radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is
between the MAX and MIN lines. If
it is below the MIN line, see
on page for
information on adding the proper
coolant.
If it is near or below the lower mark,
see on page .
Refer to
on page for information
on checking other items in your
Honda.
4.
195
199
193
Adding
Engine Coolant
Adding Oil
Owner Maintenance
Checks
Engine Coolant Check
Service Station Procedures
Before Driving
149
UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK
RESERVE TANK MAX
MIN
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The condition of your car and your
driving habits are the two most
important things that affect the fuel
mileage you get.
Always maintain your car according
to the maintenance schedule. This
will keep it in top operating condition.
An important part of that mainte-
nance is the
(see page ). For
example, an underinflated tire
causes more ‘‘rolling resistance,’’
which uses fuel. It also wears out
faster, so check the tire pressure at
least monthly.
You can improve fuel economy by
driving moderately. Rapid acceler-
ation, abrupt cornering, and hard
braking use more fuel.
To get the best fuel mileage, drive in
the highest gear that is practical for
the speed you are driving, and
always accelerate slowly.
Engine oil also affects fuel economy.
The fuel efficient, low-viscosity
0W-20 oil recommended for your
Civic Hybrid is formulated to help
the engine use less fuel. This oil is
available at your Honda dealer.
In winter, the build-up of snow on
your car’s underside adds weight and
rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning
helps your fuel mileage and reduces
the chance of corrosion. You may find that your Civic Hybrid’s
unique combination of an engine and
an electric motor has driving
characteristics that are somewhat
different from what you are used to.
Shift Up and Shift Down indicators
(5-speed manual transmission only)
on the instrument panel show when
to shift to a higher or lower gear. By
shifting as soon as the indicator
comes on, you will keep the engine
operating in its most economical
range.
193
Vehicle Condition
Owner Maintenance
Checks
Driving Habits
Before Driving
Fuel Economy
150
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The air conditioning puts an extra
load on the engine which makes it
usemorefuel.TurnofftheA/Cto
cutdownonairconditioninguse.
Use the flow-through ventilation
when the outside air temperature is
moderate.
If air conditioning is needed, you can
save some fuel by using the A/C in
‘‘ECON’’ mode. When the outside
temperature is above 41°F (5°C),
this mode allows the Auto Idle Stop
function to shut off the engine when
the vehicle is stopped, resulting in
fuel savings.
Depending on traffic conditions, try
to maintain a constant speed. Every
time you slow down and speed up,
your car uses extra fuel. Use the
cruise control, when appropriate, to
increase fuel economy.
Wind resistance causes vehicles to
usemorefuelathigherspeeds.
Driving at moderate speeds on the
highway reduces wind resistance
and conserves fuel.
A cold engine uses more fuel than a
warm engine. It is not necessary to
‘‘warm-up’’ a cold engine by letting it
idle for a long time. You can drive
away in about a minute, no matter
how cold it is outside. The engine
will warm up faster, and you get
better fuel economy. To cut down on
the number of ‘‘cold starts,’’ try to
combine several short trips into one.
You may notice that using the A/C
causes a greater drop in fuel
economy than you are used to in
other vehicles. Although the amount
of extra fuel used by the A/C load on
the engine is no greater than other
vehicles, it is more noticeable
because of your Civic Hybrid’s
excellent fuel mileage. Using the
A/C in hot weather may result in
fuel economy that is lower than
expected.
Fuel Economy
Before Driving
151
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Modifying your car, or installing
some non-Honda accessories, can
make your car unsafe. Before you
make any modifications or add any
accessories,besuretoreadthe
following information.
When properly installed, cellular
phones, alarms, two-way radios, and
low-powered audio systems should
not interfere with your car’s
computer-controlled systems, such
as the SRS and anti-lock brake
system.
If possible, have your dealer inspect
the final installation.
Have the installer contact your
Honda dealer for assistance before
installing any electronic accessory.
Be sure electronic accessories do
not overload electrical circuits
(see page ).
Make sure the accessory does not
obscure any lights, or interfere
with proper car operation or
performance.
Before installing any accessory:
However, if electronic accessories
are improperly installed, or exceed
your car’s electrical system capacity,
they can interfere with the operation
of your car, or even cause the
airbags to deploy.
Your dealer has Honda accessories
that allow you to personalize your car.
These accessories have been
designed and approved for your car,
and are covered by warranty.
Non-Honda accessories are usually
designed for universal applications.
Although aftermarket accessories
may fit on your car, they may not
meet factory specifications, and
could adversely affect your car’s
handling and stability. (See
‘‘Modifications’’ on page for
additional information.)
153
276
Accessories
Accessories and Modifications
Before Driving
152
Improper accessories or
modifications can affect your
car’s handling, stability and
performance, and cause a
crash in which you can be hurt
or killed.
Follow all instructions in this
owner’s manual regarding
accessories and modifications.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If a side airbag
inflates,acupholderorotherhard
object attached on or near the
door could be propelled inside the
car and hurt someone.
Covering the outside edge of a
front seat-back, with a non-Honda
seat cover for example, could
prevent the airbag from inflating
properly.
Some examples are:
Lowering the vehicle with an
aftermarket suspension kit that
significantly reduces ground
clearance can allow the
undercarriage to impact speed
bumps or other raised objects,
which could cause the airbags to
deploy.
Raising the vehicle with an
aftermarket suspension kit can
affect the handling and stability.
Aftermarket wheels, because they
are a universal design, can cause
excessive stress on suspension
components.
Larger or smaller wheels and tires
can interfere with the operation of
your vehicle’s anti-lock brakes and
other systems.
Do not modify your steering wheel
or any other part of your
Supplemental Restraint System.
Modifications could make the
system ineffective.
Any object
attached to or placed on the covers
marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG,’’ in the
center of the steering wheel and
on top of the dashboard, could
interfere with the proper operation
of the airbags. Or, if the airbags
inflate, the objects could be
propelled inside the car and hurt
someone.
If you plan to modify your vehicle,
consult with your Honda dealer.
Removing parts from your vehicle,
or replacing components with non-
Honda (aftermarket) components
could seriously affect your vehicle’s
handling, stability, and reliability.
Only on models equipped with side
airbags
Modifications
Additional Safety Precautions
Do not attach hard objects on or
near a front door.
Do not place any objects over the
outsideedgeofafrontseat-back.
Do not attach or place objects on
the front airbag covers.
Accessories and Modifications
Before Driving
153
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Your car has several convenient
storage areas so you can stow cargo
safely.
The glove box, and the pockets in
the front doors and seat-back, are
designed for small, lightweight items.
The trunk is intended for larger,
heavier items.
However, carrying too much cargo,
or improperly storing it, can affect
your car’s handling, stability, and
operation and make it unsafe. Before
carrying any type of cargo, be sure to
read the following pages.
Carrying Cargo
Before Driving
154
CONSOLE COMPARTMENT FRONT DOOR POCKET
TRUNK
SEAT-BACK POCKET
GLOVE BOX
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Store or secure all items that could
be thrown around and hurt
someone during a crash.
Be sure items placed on the floor
behind the front seats cannot roll
under the seats and interfere with
the driver’s ability to operate the
pedals, or with the proper
operation of the seats.
Keep the glove box closed while
driving. If the lid is open, a
passenger could injure their knees
during a crash or sudden stop.
Do not put any items on top of the
trunk panel. They can block your
view and be thrown around the car
during a crash.
The maximum load for your car is
850 lbs in U. S. models and 395 kg in
Canadian models.
This figure includes the total weight
of all occupants, cargo, and
accessories.
To figure out how much cargo you
can carry:
Add up the weight of all occupants.
Subtract the total from 850 lbs in
U.S. models and 395 kg in
Canadian models.
The final number is the total weight
of cargo you can carry.
Carrying Items in the Passenger
Compartment
Load Limit
Carrying Cargo
Before Driving
155
Overloading or improper
loading can affect handling and
stability and cause a crash in
which you can be hurt or killed.
Follow all load limits and other
loading guidelines in this
manual.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Distribute cargo evenly on the
floor of the trunk, placing the
heaviest items on the bottom and
as far forward as possible.
If you can carry any items on a
roofrack,besurethetotalweight
of the rack and the items does not
exceed the maximum allowable
weight. Please contact your Honda
dealer for further information.
Tie down items that could be
thrown about the car during a
crash or sudden stop.
If you carry large items that
prevent you from closing the trunk
lid, exhaust gas can enter the
passenger area. To avoid the
possibility of carbon monoxide
poisoning, follow the instructions
on page .
54
Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or on
a Roof Rack
Carrying Cargo
Before Driving
156
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The air intake for the IMA battery is
located on top of the trunk panel. Do
not block this air intake, it may cause
the IMA battery and the power
control unit to overheat, causing the
IMA to shut down. It will start
working again after it cools.
Do not spill any liquids over the air
intake and also do not put any small
foreign objects in it. This may
damage the IMA battery and the
power control unit.
Carrying Cargo
Before Driving
Air Intake
157
AIR INTAKE
Main Menu
Table of Contents
158
Main Menu
This section gives you tips on
starting the engine under various
conditions, and how to operate the
5-speed manual and automatic
transmissions. It also includes impor-
tant information on parking your car,
and the braking system.
........................Preparing to Drive . 160
.......................Starting the Engine . 161
Starting in Cold Weather
....................at High Altitude . 161
....5-speed Manual Transmission . 162
............................Auto Idle Stop . 163
...........Auto Idle Stop Indicator . 164
Shift Up/Shift Down
...................................Indicators . 165
..............Engine Speed Limiter . 165
..Automatic Transmission(CVT) . 166
Continuously Variable
.................Transmission(CVT) . 166
.Shift Lever Position Indicator . 166
................Shift Lever Positions . 167
..............Engine Speed Limiter . 169
....................Shift Lock Release . 170
............................Auto Idle Stop . 171
...........Auto Idle Stop Indicator . 172
...........................................Parking . 173
..............................Parking Tips . 173
.....................The Braking System . 174
.............Brake Wear Indicators . 174
...............Brake System Design . 175
.......................Anti-lock Brakes . 175
Important Safety
.........................Reminders . 176
........................ABS Indicator . 177
...............Driving in Bad Weather . 178
...........................Towing a Trailer . 179
Driving
Driving
159
Main Menu
Make sure all windows, mirrors,
and outside lights are clean and
unobstructed. Remove frost, snow,
or ice.
Check that the hood and trunk are
fully closed.
Make sure the doors are securely
closed and locked.
Check that any items you may be
carrying with you inside are stored
properly or fastened down
securely.
Visually check the tires. If a tire
looks low, use a gauge to check its
pressure.
Check the adjustment of the seat
(see page ).
Check the adjustment of the
inside and outside mirrors (see
page ).
Check the adjustment of the
steering wheel (see page ).
Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
Check the indicator lights in the
instrument panel.
Start the engine (see page ).
Check the gauges and indicator
lights in the instrument panel (see
page ).
Fasten your seat belt. Check that
your passengers have fastened
their seat belts (see page ).
Youshoulddothefollowingchecks
and adjustments every day before
you drive your car.
1.
2.
3.
4. 9.
10.
8.
7.
6.
5.
11.
12.
16
59
94
99
82
161
Preparing to Drive
Driving
160
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If the engine does not start within
15 seconds, or starts but stalls
right away, repeat step 4 with the
accelerator pedal pressed half-way
down. If the engine starts, release
pressure on the accelerator pedal
so the engine does not race.
If the engine still does not start,
press the accelerator pedal all the
way down and hold it there while
starting in order to clear flooding.
As before, keep the ignition key in
the START (III) position for no
more than 15 seconds. Return to
step 5 if the engine does not start.
If it starts, lift your foot off the
accelerator pedal so the engine
does not race.
Apply the parking brake.
In cold weather, turn off all
electrical accessories to reduce
the drain on the battery.
Push the clutch pedal down all the
way. START (III) does not
function unless the clutch pedal is
depressed.
Make sure the shift lever is in
Park. Press on the brake pedal.
Without touching the accelerator
pedal, turn the ignition key to the
START (III) position. If the engine
does not start right away, do not
hold the key in START (III) for
more than 15 seconds at a time.
Pause for at least 10 seconds
before trying again. An engine is harder to start in cold
weather. The thinner air found at
high altitude above 8,000 feet (2,400
meters) adds to the problem.
Use the following procedure:
Turn off all electrical accessories
to reduce the drain on the battery.
Push the accelerator pedal half-
way to the floor and hold it there
while starting the engine. Do not
hold the ignition key in START
(III) for more than 15 seconds.
When the engine starts, release
the accelerator pedal gradually as
the engine speeds up and smooths
out.
If the engine fails to start in step 2,
push the accelerator pedal to the
floor and hold it there while you
try to start the engine for no more
than 15 seconds. If the engine
does not start, return to step 2.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
1.
2.
3.
Manual Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (CVT):
Starting the Engine
Driving
Starting in Cold Weather at High
Altitude (Above 8,000 feet/
2,400 meters)
161
Main Menu
Come to a full stop before you shift
into Reverse. You can damage the
transmission by trying to shift into
Reverse with the car moving. Push
down the clutch pedal, and pause for
a few seconds before shifting into
Reverse, or shift into one of the
forward gears for a moment. This
stops the gears so they won’t ‘‘grind.’’
The manual transmission is syn-
chronizedinallforwardgearsfor
smooth operation. It has a detent so
you cannot shift directly from Fifth
to Reverse. When shifting up or
down,makesureyoupushtheclutch
pedal down all the way, shift to the
next gear, and let the pedal up
gradually. When you are not shifting,
do not rest your foot on the clutch
pedal. This can cause your clutch to
wear out faster.
When slowing down, you can get
extra braking from the engine by
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 the vehicle speed is low
enough that you will not activate the
engine speed limiter in the lower
gear. Make sure the engine speed
will not go into the tachometer’s red
zone in the lower gear before
downshifting.
5-speed Manual Transmission
Driving
162
Rapid slowing or speeding-up
can cause loss of control on
slippery surfaces. If you crash,
you can be injured.
Use extra care when driving on
slippery surfaces.
Main Menu
The engine coolant is nearly up to
normal operating temperature.
The vehicle’s speed is below 19
mph (30 km/h) and you are
pressing on the brake pedal to
come to a stop.
You depress the clutch pedal.
You are not pressing on the
accelerator pedal.
During Auto Idle Stop, the IMA
charge and power brake vacuum
reserve is monitored by the system.
If either drops below a desired level,
and the shift lever is in Neutral, the
engine will restart so it can recharge
the IMA battery or replenish the
vacuum supply.
To maximize fuel economy, your
Civic Hybrid has an Auto Idle Stop
function. Under certain conditions,
the engine will shut off when you
come to a stop. Those conditions are:
The IMA battery is charged
enough to operate the system.
The ECON mode is selected, and
the outside temperature is above
41°F (5°C), or the fan speed
controldialisoff(seepage ).
There is adequate vacuum reserve
for the power brakes.
When these conditions are met, the
engine will shut off as you come to a
stop. It will start again automatically
when you depress the clutch pedal
and move the shift lever to first gear.
There is no need to start the engine
with the ignition switch.
It is recommended that you move
the shift lever to Neutral and remove
your foot from the clutch pedal while
you are stopped. Sitting with the
clutch pedal depressed and the shift
lever in gear will cause the engine to
continue running, defeating the fuel
economy benefits of the Auto Idle
Stop function.
The Auto Idle Stop function may not
activate when starting the engine or
if the IMA battery temperature is too
hot or too cold.
111
CONTINUED
5-speed Manual Transmission
Driving
Auto Idle Stop
163
Main Menu
This indicator comes on as a
reminder that the engine has
stopped because of the Auto Idle
Stop function. When the indicator is
off, it means that Auto Idle Stop is
not active. When the indicator is on,
but the engine is not running, it
means the clutch pedal is depressed,
but the transmission is not in gear.
When the indicator is blinking, it
means the clutch pedal is not
depressed. You cannot restart the
engine with the ignition switch when
this light is blinking.
This indicator will blink, and you will
hear a continuous beep, if you open
the door when Auto Stop is active.
The beep will stop when you close
the door.
Always turn the ignition switch to
LOCK (0) and remove the key if you
are getting out of the vehicle.
5-speed Manual Transmission
Driving
Auto Idle Stop Indicator
164
AUTO IDLE STOP INDICATOR
Main Menu
If you exceed the maximum speed
for the gear you are in, the engine
speed will enter into the tachometer’s
red zone. If this occurs, you may feel
the engine cut in and out. This is
caused by a limiter in the engine’s
computer controls. The engine will
run normally when you reduce the
RPM below the red zone.
Before downshifting, make sure the
engine will not go into the
tachometer’s red zone.
Either the Shift Up or Shift Down
indicator will light to show the best
time to shift to a higher or lower
gear. You can achieve the best fuel
economy by accelerating and
decelerating slowly, and shifting
when prompted by the Shift Up
indicator.
Road and traffic conditions may
require you to shift at times other
than those indicated.
The Shift Down indicator prompts
you to shift to a lower gear when you
are climbing a hill faster than 12 mph
(19km/h),losingspeed,and
pressing on the accelerator pedal.
5-speed Manual Transmission
Driving
Shift Up/Shift Down Indicators Engine Speed Limiter
165
SHIFT UP INDICATOR
SHIFT DOWN INDICATOR
Main Menu
This indicator on the instrument
panel shows which position the shift
lever is in.
Honda’s Continuously Variable
automatic transmission’s unique
design provides a smooth, constant
flow of power. It is electronically
controlled for more precise operation
and better fuel economy.
The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a
few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch ON (II). If it flashes
while driving (in any shift position),
it indicates a possible problem in the
transmission. Avoid rapid acceler-
ation and have the transmission
checkedbyanauthorizedHonda
dealer as soon as possible.
The malfunction indicator lamp may
come on along with the ‘‘D’’ indicator
if there is a problem in the
continuously variable transmission
control system.
Driving
Shift Lever Position IndicatorContinuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)
Automatic Transmission (CVT)
166
Main Menu
−
CONTINUED
Do this:
Press the brake pedal and
press the release button.
Press the release button.
Move the lever.
To shift from:
PtoR
RtoP
NtoR
StoL
LtoS
StoD
DtoN
DtoS
NtoD
RtoN
This position mechani-
cally locks the transmission. Use
Park whenever you are turning off or
starting the engine. To shift out of
Park, you must press on the brake
pedal and have your foot off the
accelerator pedal. Press the release
buttononthefrontoftheshiftlever
to move it.
The shift lever has six positions. It
must be in Park or Neutral to start
the engine. When you are stopped in
D, S, L, N or R, press firmly on the
brake pedal and keep your foot off
the accelerator pedal.
Driving
Shift Lever Positions
Park (P)
Automatic Transmission (CVT)
167
SHIFT LEVER
RELEASE BUTTON
Main Menu
−
−
−If you have done all of the above and
still cannot move the lever out of
Park, see Shift Lock Release on page
.
You must also press the release
button to shift into Park. To avoid
transmission damage, come to a
complete stop before shifting into
Park. The shift lever must be in Park
before you can remove the key from
the ignition switch.
To shift to Reverse
from Park, see the explanation under
Park. To shift to Reverse from
Neutral, come to a complete stop and
then shift. Press the release button
before shifting into Reverse from
Neutral.
Use Neutral if you
need to restart a stalled engine, or if
it is necessary to stop briefly with
the engine idling. Always shift to
Park position if you need to leave the
car for any reason. Press on the
brake pedal when you are moving
the shift lever from Neutral to
another position.
Use this position for
your normal driving. The transmis-
sion automatically adjusts to keep
the engine at the best speed for
driving conditions. To help the
engine warm up faster, the transmis-
sion will select ratios that allow the
engine to run at higher speeds when
it is cold.
170
Driving
Reverse (R)
Neutral (N)
Drive (D)
Automatic Transmission (CVT)
168
Main Menu
−−Selecting Second
shifts the transmission into a lower
range of ratios for better accelera-
tion and increased engine braking.
Use Second when you are going
down a steep hill, or in stop-and-go
driving.
To shift to Low, press
the release button on the front of the
shift lever. Use Low to get more
power when climbing, and for
maximum engine braking when
going down steep hills.
ForfasteraccelerationwheninD,S
or L, the transmission will
automatically ‘‘kick down’’ to a lower
range of ratios by pushing the
accelerator pedal to the floor.
The CVT shifts automatically to
maintain proper engine speed in any
shift position.
When the vehicle reaches the
maximum speed in any shift position,
you may feel the engine cut in and
out. This is caused by a limiter (112
mph, 180 km/h) in the engine’s
computer controls. The engine will
run normally when you reduce the
speed to below the maximum.
Automatic Transmission (CVT)
Driving
Second (S) Low (L) Engine Speed Limiter
169
Main Menu
This allows you to move the shift
lever out of Park if the normal
method of pushing on the brake
pedal and pressing the release
button does not work.
Set the Parking brake.
Remove the key from the ignition
switch.
Push down on the key while you
pressthereleasebuttononthe
shift lever and move the shift lever
out of Park to Neutral.
Insert the key in the Shift Lock
Release slot.
Put a cloth on the edge of the Shift
Lock Release slot cover next to
the shift lever.
Use a small flat-tipped screwdriver
or small metal plate (neither are
included in the tool kit) to remove
the cover. Carefully pry on the
edge of the cover.
Remove the key from the Shift
Lock Release slot, then reinstall
thecover.Makesurethenotchon
the cover is on the left side.
Return the key to the ignition
switch, depress the brake pedal,
and restart the engine.
If you need to use the Shift Lock
Release, it means your car is
developing a problem. Have the car
checked by your Honda dealer.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Driving
Shift Lock Release
Automatic Transmission (CVT)
170
COVER
RELEASE BUTTON
SHIFT LOCK
RELEASE SLOT
Main Menu
The engine coolant is nearly up to
normal operating temperature.
The shift lever is in D or N.
You are not pressing on the
accelerator pedal.
There is adequate vacuum reserve
for the power brakes.To maximize fuel economy, your
Civic Hybrid has an Auto Idle Stop
function. Under certain conditions,
the engine will shut off when you
come to a stop. Those conditions are:
The IMA battery is charged
enough to operate the system.
The ECON mode is selected, and
the outside temperature is above
41°F (5°C), or the fan speed
controldialisoff(seepage ).
When these conditions are met after
the vehicle speed has exceeded 10
mph (16 km/h), the engine will shut
off as you are braking to a stop and
the vehicle speed goes below 5 mph
(8 km/h).
The engine will start again when you
release the brake pedal. It will also
restart, even if you are still pressing
the brake pedal, under these
conditions:
You are on an incline, and the
vehicle begins rolling.
You press the accelerator pedal.
You move the shift lever from D
or N to R or L.
During Auto Idle Stop, the IMA
charge and power brake vacuum
reserve is monitored by the system.
If the vacuum reserve drops below
an optimal level, the engine will
restart to replenish the vacuum
supply. If the IMA charge drops
below an optimal level and the shift
lever is in Neutral or Park (P), the
engine will restart to recharge the
IMA battery.
The Auto Idle Stop function may not
activate when starting the engine or
if the IMA battery temperature is too
hot or too cold.
111
Driving
Automatic Transmission (CVT)
Auto Idle Stop
171
Main Menu
The indicator blinks as a reminder
that the engine has stopped because
of the Auto Idle Stop function. You
cannot restart the engine with the
ignition switch when this light is
blinking.
If you open the driver’s door when
Auto Stop is active, the indicator will
blink and you will hear a continuous
beep. The beep will stop when you
close the door.
With the driver’s door open, you will
hear a continuous beep even if the
Auto Idle Stop function is
deactivated and the engine restarts.
Always turn the ignition switch to
LOCK (0) and remove the key if you
are getting out of the car.
Driving
Auto Idle Stop Indicator
Automatic Transmission (CVT)
172
AUTO IDLE STOP INDICATOR
Main Menu
−
Make sure the parking brake is fully
released before driving away.
Driving with the parking brake
partially set can overheat or damage
the rear brakes.
Always use the parking brake when
you park your car. The indicator on
the instrument panel shows that the
parking brake is not fully released; it
does not indicate that the parking
brakeisfirmlyset.Makesurethe
parking brake is set firmly or your
car may roll if it is parked on an
incline.
If your car has an automatic
transmission, set the parking brake
before you put the transmission in
Park.Thiskeepsthecarfrom
moving and putting pressure on the
parking mechanism in the
transmission making it easier to
move the shift lever out of Park
when you want to drive away.
If the car is facing uphill, turn the
front wheels away from the curb. If
you have a manual transmission, put
it in first gear.
If the car is facing downhill, turn the
front wheels toward the curb. If you
have a manual transmission, put it in
reverse gear.
Make sure the windows are closed.
Turn off the lights.
Place any packages, valuables, etc.,
in the trunk or take them with you.
Lockthedoorswiththekeyorthe
remote transmitter.
Never park over dry leaves, tall
grass, or other flammable
materials. The three way catalytic
converter gets very hot, and could
cause these materials to catch on
fire.
Parking
Parking Tips
Driving
173
Main Menu
Check your brakes after driving
through deep water. Apply the
brakes moderately to see if they feel
normal. If not, apply them gently and
frequently until they do. Since a
longer distance is needed to stop
with wet brakes, be extra cautious
and alert in your driving.
Constant application of the brakes
when going down a long hill builds
up heat and reduces their effective-
ness. Use the engine to assist the
brakes by downshifting to a lower
gear and taking your foot off the
accelerator pedal.
When the brake pads need replacing,
you will hear a distinctive metallic
‘‘screeching’’ sound when you apply
the brakes. If you do not have the
brake pads replaced, they will begin
screeching all the time.
Your brakes may sometimes squeal
or squeak when you apply them
lightly. Do not confuse this with the
brakewearindicators.Theymakea
very audible ‘‘screeching.’’
The front disc brakes on all models
have audible brake wear indicators.
Put your foot on the brake pedal only
when you intend to brake. Resting
your foot on the pedal keeps the
brakes applied lightly, causing them
to build up heat. Heat build-up can
reduce how well your brakes work. It
also keeps your brake lights on all
the time, confusing drivers behind
you.
The Civic Hybrid is equipped with
front disc brakes. The brakes on the
rear wheels are drum. A power assist
helps reduce the effort needed on
thebrakepedal.TheABS(oncars
equipped with ABS) helps you retain
steering control when braking very
hard.
Brake Wear Indicators
The Braking System
Driving
174
Main Menu
CONTINUED
The hydraulic system that operates
the brakes has two separate circuits.
Each circuit works diagonally across
the vehicle (the left-front brake is
connected with the right-rear brake,
etc.). If one circuit should develop a
problem, you will still have braking
at two wheels.
this defeats the
purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS
work for you by always keeping firm,
steady pressure on the brake pedal
as you steer away from the hazard.
This is sometimes referred to as
You will feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal when the ABS activates, and
you may hear some noise. This is
normal; it is the ABS rapidly
pumping the brakes.
ABS helps to prevent the wheels
from locking up and skidding during
hard braking, allowing you to retain
steering control.
When the front tires skid, you lose
steering control; the car continues
straightaheadeventhoughyouturn
the steering wheel. The ABS helps to
prevent lock-up and helps you retain
steering control by pumping the
brakes rapidly; much faster than a
person can do it.
The ABS also balances the front-to
rear braking distribution according
to vehicle loading.
‘‘stomp and steer.’’
Brake System Design Anti-lock Brakes You should never pump the
brake pedal;(Optional)
Driving
The Braking System
175
Front
Main Menu
on loose or
uneven surfaces, such as gravel or
snow, than a vehicle without anti-
lock. Slow down and allow a greater
distance between vehicles under
those conditions.
it
only helps with steering control
during braking. You should always
maintain a safe following distance
from other vehicles.
such as trying to take a
corner too fast or making a sudden
lane change. Always drive at a safe,
prudent speed for the road and
weather conditions.
Always steer moderately
when you are braking hard. Severe
or sharp steering wheel movement
can still cause your car to veer into
oncoming traffic or off the road.
Activation varies with the amount of
traction your tires have. On dry
pavement, you will need to press on
thebrakepedalveryhardbeforeyou
activate the ABS. However, you may
feel the ABS activate immediately if
you are trying to stop on snow or ice.
The Braking System
Driving
A vehicle with ABS may require a
longer distance to stopABS does not reduce the time or
distance it takes to stop the car;
ABS will not prevent a skid that
results from changing direction
abruptly,
ABS cannot prevent a loss of
stability.
Important Safety Reminders
176
Main Menu
＊
＊
The ABS is self-checking. If anything
goes wrong, the ABS indicator on
the instrument panel comes on (see
page ). This means the anti-lock
function of the braking system has
shut down. The brakes still work like
a conventional system without anti-
lock, providing normal stopping
ability. You should have the dealer
inspect your car as soon as possible.
If the ABS indicator and the brake
system indicator come on together,
and the parking brake is fully
released, the front-to-rear braking
distribution system may also shut
down.
Test your brakes as instructed on
page . If the brakes feel normal,
drive slowly and have your car
repaired by your dealer as soon as
possible. Avoid sudden hard braking
which could cause the rear wheels to
lock up and possibly lead to a loss of
control.
62
275
The Braking System
Driving
ABS Indicator
177
ABS INDICATOR
U.S. indicator shown
Main Menu
−− Being able to see
clearly in all directions and being
visible to other drivers are important
in all weather conditions. This is
more difficult in bad weather. To be
seen more clearly during daylight
hours, turn on your headlights.
Inspect your windshield wipers and
washers frequently. Keep the wind-
shield washer reservoir full of the
proper fluid. Have the windshield
wiper blades replaced if they start to
streak the windshield or leave parts
unwiped. Use the defrosters and air
conditioning to keep the windows
from fogging up on the inside (see
page ).
Exercise extra caution when driving
in rain after a long dry spell. After
months of dry weather, the first
rains bring oil to the surface of the
roadway, making it slippery.
Rain, fog, and snow conditions
require a different driving technique
because of reduced traction and
visibility. Keep your car well-
maintained and exercise greater
caution when you need to drive in
bad weather. The cruise control
should not be used in these
conditions.
Always drive
slower than you would in dry
weather. It takes your car longer to
react, even in conditions that may
seem just barely damp. Apply
smooth, even pressure to all the
controls. Abrupt steering wheel
movements or sudden, hard appli-
cation of the brakes can cause loss of
control in wet weather. Be extra
cautious for the first few miles
(kilometers) of driving while you
adjust to the change in driving
conditions. This is especially true in
snow. A person can forget some
snow-driving techniques during the
summer months. Practice is needed
to relearn those skills. 116
Driving in Bad Weather
Driving
VisibilityDriving Technique
178
Main Menu
− Check your tires
frequently for wear and proper
pressure. Both are important in
preventing ‘‘hydroplaning’’ (loss of
traction on a wet surface). In the
winter, mount snow tires on all four
wheels for the best handling.
Watch road conditions carefully,
they can change from moment to
moment. Wet leaves can be as slip-
pery as ice. ‘‘Clear’’ roads can have
patches of ice. Driving conditions
can be very hazardous when the
outside temperature is near freezing.
The road surface can become
covered with areas of water puddles
mixed with areas of ice, so your
traction can change without warning.
Be careful when downshifting. If
traction is low, you can lock up the
drive wheels for a moment and cause
askid.
Be very cautious when passing, or
beingpassedbyothervehicles.The
spray from large vehicles reduces
your visibility, and the wind buffeting
can cause you to lose control.
Your vehicle is not designed to tow a
trailer. Attempting to do so can void
your warranties.
Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer
Driving
Towing a TrailerTraction
179
Main Menu
180
Main Menu
This section also includes
Maintenance Schedules for normal
driving and severe driving conditions,
a Maintenance Record, and instruc-
tions for simple maintenance tasks
you may want to take care of
yourself.
If you have the skills and tools to per-
form more complex maintenance
tasks on your Honda, you may want
to purchase the Service Manual. See
page for information on how to
obtain a copy, or see your Honda
dealer.
This section explains why it is
important to keep your car well
maintained and how to follow basic
maintenance safety precautions.
......................Maintenance Safety . 182
.Important Safety Precautions . 183
.................Maintenance Schedule . 184
...Required Maintenance Record . 191
.......Owner Maintenance Checks . 193
..............................Fluid Locations . 194
......................................Engine Oil . 195
..................................Adding Oil . 195
....................Recommended Oil . 195
..............................Synthetic Oil . 196
....................................Additives . 196
.....Changing the Oil and Filter . 197
.............................Cooling System . 199
............Adding Engine Coolant . 199
.......Replacing Engine Coolant . 201
....................Windshield Washers . 205
.......................Transmission Fluid . 206
Continuously Variable
............Transmission (CVT) . 206
5-speed Manual
.........................Transmission . 208
................Brake and Clutch Fluid . 209
............................Brake System . 209
...........................Clutch System . 210
.....................Air Cleaner Element . 211
....................................Hood Latch . 212
....................................Spark Plugs . 213
..............................Replacement . 213
............................Specifications . 215
...........................................Battery . 216
.................................Wiper Blades . 219
..............Air Conditioning System . 221
..................Dust and Pollen Filter . 222
.......................................Drive Belt . 224
...............................................Tires . 225
......................................Inflation . 225
Recommended Tire Pressures
...........for Normal Driving . 226
Tire Pressure Adjustment for
..........High Speed Driving . 226
..................................Inspection . 227
..............................Maintenance . 227
.............................Tire Rotation . 228
...Replacing Tires and Wheels . 229
......................Wheels and Tires . 230
..........................Winter Driving . 230
.............................Snow Tires . 230
............................Tire Chains . 231
.............................................Lights . 232
.....................Headlight Aiming . 234
........................Replacing Bulbs . 234
...........................Storing Your Car . 243
303
Maintenance
Maintenance
181
Main Menu
Some of the most important safety
precautions are given here. However,
we cannot warn you of every
conceivable hazard that can arise in
performing maintenance. Only you
can decide whether or not you
should perform a given task.
This section includes instructions for
simple maintenance tasks, such as
checking and adding oil. Any service
items not detailed in this section
should be performed by a Honda
technician or other qualified
mechanic.
Regularly maintaining your car is the
best way to protect your investment.
Proper maintenance is essential to
your safety and the safety of your
passengers. It will also reward you
with more economical, trouble-free
driving and help reduce air pollution.
Maintenance
Maintenance Safety
182
Failure to properly follow
maintenance instructions and
precautions can cause you to
be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures
and precautions in this owner’s
manual.
Improperly maintaining this car
or failing to correct a problem
before driving can cause a
crash in which you can be
seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the inspection
and maintenance
recommendations and
schedules in this owner’s
manual.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Be sure
there is adequate ventilation
whenever you operate the engine.
Let the
engine and exhaust system cool
before touching any parts.
Do
not run the engine unless in-
structed to do so.
Read the instructions before you
begin, and make sure you have the
tools and skills required.
Before you begin any maintenance,
make sure your car is parked on
level ground and that the parking
brake is set. Also, be sure the engine
is off. This will help to eliminate
several potential hazards:
You should wear eye protection and
protective clothing when working
near the battery or when using
compressed air.
To reduce the possibility of fire or
explosion, be careful when working
around gasoline or batteries. Use a
commercially available degreaser or
parts cleaner, not gasoline, to clean
parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and
flames away from the battery and all
fuel-related parts.
Maintenance Safety
Maintenance
Important Safety Precautions
Carbon monoxide poisoning
from engine exhaust.
Burns from hot parts.
Injury from moving parts.
183
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
The Maintenance Schedule specifies
how often you should have your car
serviced and what things need
attention. It is essential that you have
your car serviced as scheduled to
retain its high level of safety,
dependability, and emissions control
performance.
Avoidexceedingyourcar’sload
limit.Thisputsexcessstresson
the engine, brakes, and many
other parts of your car. The load
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 miles
(kilometers).
Always use unleaded gasoline with
theproperoctanerating(seepage
).
The services and time or distance
intervals shown in the maintenance
schedule assume you will use your
car as normal transportation for
passengers and their possessions.
You should also follow these
recommendations:
Service your car according to the
time and mileage periods on one of
the Maintenance Schedules on the
following pages.
Follow the
Maintenance Schedule for Severe
Conditions if you drive your car
MAINLY under one or more of the
following conditions.
Driving less than 5 miles (8 km)
per trip or, in freezing
temperatures, driving less than 10
miles (16 km) per trip.
Driving in extremely hot [over
90°F (32°C)] conditions.
Extensive idling or long periods of
stop-and-go driving, such as a taxi
or a commercial delivery vehicle.
144
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance
Which Schedule to Follow:
U.S. Owners
184
Main Menu
Table of Contents
＃
−
According to state and federal
regulations, failure to perform
maintenance on the items marked
with will not void your emissions
warranties. However, Honda
recommends that all maintenance
services be performed at the
recommended time or mileage
period to ensure long-term reliability.
Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-
iced roads.
Driving with a roof rack, or driving
in mountainous conditions.
NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY
or NEVER, drive under a ‘‘severe’’
condition, you should follow the
Maintenance Schedule for Normal
Conditions.
Follow the
Maintenance Schedule for Severe
Conditions.
Your authorized Honda dealer
knows your car best and can provide
competent, efficient service.
However, service at a dealer is not
mandatory to keep your warranties
in effect. Maintenance may be done
by any qualified service facility or
person who is skilled in this type of
automotive service. Keep all the
receipts as proof of completion, and
have the person who does the work
fill out the Maintenance Record.
Check your warranty booklet for
more information.
We recommend the use of Honda
parts and fluids whenever you have
maintenance done. These are
manufactured to the same high-
quality standards as the original
components, so you can be confident
of their performance and durability.
U.S. Vehicles:
Maintenance
Maintenance Schedule
Canadian Owners
Maintenance, replacement or
repair of emissions control
devices and systems may be done
by any automotive repair
establishment or individual using
parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA
standards.
185
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
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＃
＃
Maintenance
186
Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first. miles x 1,000
km x 1,000
months
10
16
50
80
70
112
110
176
Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop
Service the following items at the recommended intervals.
Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km) or 7 years
Inspect every 110,000 miles (176,000 km), otherwise adjust only if noisy
Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km)
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
20
32
30
48
40
64
60
96
80
128
90
144
100
160
120
192
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Check engine oil and coolant
Replace engine oil
Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month)
Replace engine oil filter
Inspect front and rear brakes
Check parking brake adjustment
Visually inspect the following items:
Tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots
Suspension components
Driveshaft boots
Brake hoses and lines (including ABS)
All fluid levels and condition of fluids
Exhaust system
Fuel lines and connections
Inspect and adjust drive belts
Replace dust and pollen filter
Replace transmission fluid
Replace air cleaner element
Replace spark plugs
Inspect valve clearance
Inspect idle speed
Replace engine coolant
Replace brake fluid
At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years,
then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years
Every 3 years (independent of mileage)
Replace every 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years.
See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page .
24 48 7212 36 60
M/T
CVT
:
: 185
Maintenance Schedule for Normal Conditions
Main Menu
Table of Contents
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−
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□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
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□
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Maintenance
187
U.S. Owners
Canadian Owners
A, B, C, D, E
A
B
C
D
E
Refer to page to determine which schedule to use.
Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.
Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in as required for each distance/time.
Replace engine oil.
Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 228 ).
Replace engine oil filter.
Inspect front and rear brakes.
Check parking brake adjustment.
Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots.
Inspect suspension components.
Inspect driveshaft boots.
Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS).
Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check
for leaks.
Inspect exhaust system.
Inspect fuel lines and connections.
Inspect and adjust drive belts.
Replace dust and pollen filter.
Replace air cleaner element every 30,000 mi/
48,000 km (independent of time).
Replace brake fluid every 3 years (independent of
mileage).
Do items in A.
Do items in A, B.
Do item in D.
Replace transmission fluid (CVT).
Do items in A, C.
Do items in A, B.
Do item in E.
Do items in A.
Do item in D.
DoitemsinA,B,C.
Replace transmission fluid (CVT).
Do items in A.
Do items in A, B.
Do item in D.
Do items in A, C.
Replace transmission fluid (CVT).
Do items in A, B.
Inspect valve clearance, cold engine.
Replace spark plugs.
Do item in E.
Do items in A.
Inspect idle speed.
Do item in D.
Replace transmission fluid (M/T).
DoitemsinA,B,C.
Replace transmission fluid (CVT).
Replace engine coolant, then replace every
60,000mi/96,000km/5yrs.
10,000 mi/16,000 km/1 yr
20,000 mi/32,000 km/1 yr
30,000 mi/48,000 km
30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs
40,000 mi/64,000 km/2 yrs
3yrs
50,000 mi/80,000 km/3 yrs
60,000 mi/96,000 km
60,000 mi/96,000 km/3 yrs
60,000 mi/96,000 km/4 yrs
70,000 mi/112,000 km/4 yrs
80,000 mi/128,000 km/4 yrs
90,000 mi/144,000 km
90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs
90,000 mi/144,000 km/6 yrs
100,000 mi/160,000 km/5 yrs
110,000 mi/176,000 km
6yrs
110,000 mi/176,000 km/6 yrs
110,000 mi/176,000 km/7 yrs
120,000 mi/192,000 km
120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs
120,000 mi/192,000 km/8 yrs
120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs
184
See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last
column, page .
Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop.
Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.
NOTE:
:
185
Maintenance Schedule for Normal Conditions (listed by distance/time)
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
＊
＃
＃＃
＊
Maintenance
188
Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first. miles x 1,000
km x 1,000
months
Replace every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months
Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop
10
16
50
80
70
112
110
176
20
32
30
48
40
64
60
96
80
128
90
144
100
160
120
192
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Service the following items at the recommended intervals.
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) in dusty conditions,
otherwise use normal schedule
Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km)
Inspect every 110,000 miles (176,000 km), otherwise adjust only if noisy
Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km) or 7 years
Check engine oil and coolant
Replace engine oil
Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month)
Replace engine oil filter
Inspect front and rear brakes
Lubricate all hinges, locks, and latches
Visually inspect the following items:
Tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots
Suspension components
Driveshaft boots
Check parking brake adjustment
Visually inspect the following items:
Brake hoses and lines (including ABS)
All fluid levels and condition of fluids
Exhaust system, Fuel lines and connections
Lights and controls, Vehicle underbody
Inspect and adjust drive belts
Replace dust and pollen filter
Replace transmission fluid
Replace air cleaner element
Replace spark plugs
Inspect valve clearance
Inspect idle speed
Replace engine coolant
Replace brake fluid
At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years,
then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years
Every 3 years (independent of mileage)
See dust and pollen filter on page for replacement information under special driving conditions.
See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page .
24 48 7212 36 60
M/T
CVT
:
: 185
222
Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions
Main Menu
Table of Contents
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−
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□
□
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□
□
□
□
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□
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CONTINUED
Maintenance
189
U.S. Owners
Canadian Owners
A, B, C, D, E, F
A
B
C
D
E
F
Refer to page to determine which schedule to use.
Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.
Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in as required for each distance/time.
Do items in A.
Do items in A, B.
Do items in A, E.
DoitemsinA,B,C.
Do items in A.
Do item in E.
Replace transmission fluid (CVT).
DoitemsinA,B,D.
Do items in A.
DoitemsinA,B,C.
Do items in A, E.
Do item in F.
Do items in A, B.
Do items in A.
Do item in E.
Replace transmission fluid (M/T).
DoitemsinA,B,C,D.
Replace transmission fluid (CVT).
Do items in A.
Do items in A, B.
Do items in A, E.
DoitemsinA,B,C.
Do items in A.
Do item in E.
DoitemsinA,B,D.
Replace transmission fluid (CVT).
5,000 mi/8,000 km
10,000 mi/16,000 km/1 yr
15,000 mi/24,000 km
20,000 mi/32,000 km/1 yr
25,000 mi/40,000 km
30,000 mi/48,000 km
30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs
35,000 mi/56,000 km
40,000 mi/64,000 km/2 yrs
45,000 mi/72,000 km
3yrs
50,000 mi/80,000 km/3 yrs
55,000 mi/88,000 km
60,000 mi/96,000 km
60,000 mi/96,000 km/3 yrs
60,000 mi/96,000 km/4 yrs
65,000 mi/104,000 km
70,000 mi/112,000 km/4 yrs
75,000 mi/120,000 km
80,000 mi/128,000 km/4 yrs
85,000 mi/136,000 km
90,000 mi/144,000 km
90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs
90,000 mi/144,000 km/6 yrs
Replace engine oil.
Replace engine oil filter.
Inspect front and rear brakes.
Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 228 ).
Lubricate all hinges, locks, and latches with
multipurpose grease.
Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots.
Inspect suspension components.
Inspect driveshaft boots.
Check parking brake adjustment.
Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS).
Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check
for leaks.
Inspect exhaust system.
Inspect fuel lines and connections.
Check all lights.
Inspect the underbody.
Inspect and adjust drive belts.
Replace dust and pollen filter .
Replace air cleaner element every 15,000 mi/
24,000 km (independent of time).
Replace brake fluid every 3 years (independent of
mileage).
184
Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions (listed by distance/time)
Main Menu
Table of Contents
□
□
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□
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Maintenance
190
See dust and pollen filter on page for replacement information
under special driving conditions.
See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last
column, page .
Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop.
Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.
NOTE:
:
:
222
185
Do items in A.
DoitemsinA,B,C.
Do items in A, E.
Do item in F.
Inspect valve clearance, cold engine.
Replace spark plugs.
Do items in A, B.
Inspect idle speed.
Do items in A.
Do item in E.
Replace transmission fluid (M/T).
DoitemsinA,B,C,D.
Replace transmission fluid (CVT).
Do item in F.
Replace engine coolant, then replace every
60,000 mi/96,000 km/5 yrs.
95,000 mi/152,000 km
100,000 mi/160,000 km/5 yrs
105,000 mi/168,000 km
6yrs
110,000 mi/176,000 km
110,000 mi/176,000 km/6 yrs
110,000 mi/176,000 km/7 yrs
115,000 mi/184,000 km
120,000 mi/192,000 km
120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs
120,000 mi/192,000 km/8 yrs
9yrs
120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs
Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions (listed by distance/time)
Main Menu
Table of Contents
CONTINUED
Maintenance
Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)
191
5,000 mi
10,000 mi
15,000 mi
20,000 mi
25,000 mi
30,000 mi
35,000 mi
40,000 mi
45,000 mi
50,000 mi
55,000 mi
60,000 mi
Signature or dealer stamp Signature or dealer stamp
8,000 km
16,000 km
24,000 km
32,000 km
(or 1 year)
40,000 km
48,000 km
56,000 km
64,000 km
(or 2 years)
72,000 km
80,000 km
88,000 km
96,000 km
(or 3 years)
You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page ) or severe
conditions (page ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your car.
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
188
186
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Maintenance
Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)
192
65,000 mi
70,000 mi
75,000 mi
80,000 mi
85,000 mi
90,000 mi
95,000 mi
100,000 mi
105,000 mi
110,000 mi
115,000 mi
120,000 mi
Signature or dealer stamp Signature or dealer stamp
104,000 km
112,000 km
120,000 km
128,000 km
(or 4 years)
136,000 km
144,000 km
152,000 km
160,000 km
(or 5 years)
168,000 km
176,000 km
184,000 km
192,000 km
(or 6 years)
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
mi/km
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
Engine oil level Check every
time you fill the fuel tank. See
page .
Engine coolant level Check the
radiator reserve tank every time
you fill the fuel tank. See page .
Windshield washer fluid Check
the level in the reservoir monthly.
If weather conditions cause you to
use the washers frequently, check
the reservoir each time you stop
for fuel. See page .
Youshouldcheckthefollowing
items at the specified intervals. If
you are unsure of how to perform
any check, turn to the page given.
Lights Check the operation of
the headlights, parking lights,
taillights, high-mount brake light,
turn signals, brake lights, and
license plate lights monthly. See
page .
Tires Check the tire pressure
monthly. Examine the tread for
wear and foreign objects. See page
.
Brakes Check the fluid level
monthly. See page .
Automatic transmission (CVT)
Check the fluid level monthly. See
page .
148
149
205
209
206
225
232
Owner Maintenance Checks
Maintenance
193
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Fluid Locations
Maintenance
194
ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK
(Orange loop)
ENGINE OIL
FILL CAP
BRAKE FLUID
(Gray cap)
CLUTCH FLUID
(Manual
Transmission only)
(Gray cap)
WASHER FLUID
(Blue cap)
ENGINE
COOLANT
RESERVOIR
CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (CVT)
FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)
RADIATOR CAP
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To add oil, unscrew and remove the
engine oil fill cap on top of the valve
cover. Pour in the oil, and install 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.
Make sure the API Certification Seal
says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’
Pour the oil slowly and carefully so
you do not spill. Clean up any spills
immediately. Spilled oil could
damage components in the engine
compartment.
Oil is a major contributor to your
engine’s performance and longevity.
Always use a premium-grade 0W-20
detergent oil displaying the API
Certification Seal. This seal indicates
the oil is energy conserving, and that
it meets the American Petroleum
Institute’s latest requirements.
Honda Motor Oil is the preferred
0W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. It is
highly recommended that you use
Honda Motor Oil in your vehicle for
optimum engine protection.
CONTINUED
Adding Oil
Recommended Oil
Engine Oil
Maintenance
195
ENGINE OIL
FILL CAP
API CERTIFICATION SEAL
Main Menu
Table of Contents
You may use a synthetic motor oil if
it meets the same requirements
given for a conventional motor oil: it
displays the API Certification Seal,
and it is the proper weight as shown
on the chart. When using synthetic
oil, you must follow the oil and filter
change intervals given in the
maintenance schedule.
Your Honda does not require any oil
additives. Additives may adversely
affect your engine’s or transmission’s
performance and durability.
The oil’s viscosity or weight is
provided on the container’s label.
Select the oil for your vehicle
according to this chart.
A very low-viscosity, fuel-efficient
0W-20 oil is the preferred engine
lubricant for your Civic Hybrid. This
special oil is formulated to help your
engine use less fuel. It is available at
your Honda dealer. A 5W-20 oil may
be used if 0W-20 is not available.
Engine Oil
Maintenance
Synthetic Oil
Additives
196
Ambient Temperature
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Always change the oil and filter
accordingtothetimeanddistance
(miles/kilometers) recommenda-
tions in the maintenance schedule.
The oil and filter collect contami-
nants that can damage 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
be raised on a service station-type
hydraulic lift for this service. Unless
you have the knowledge and proper
equipment, you should have this
maintenance done by a skilled
mechanic.
Remove the oil drain bolt and
washer from the bottom of the
engine. Drain the oil into an
appropriate container.
Run the engine until it reaches
normal operating temperature,
then shut it off.
Open the hood and remove the
engine oil fill cap.
Remove the nine holding clips
with a flat-tipped screwdriver, then
pull the cover down.
1.
2.
4.
3.
CONTINUED
Changing the Oil and Filter
Engine Oil
Maintenance
197
HOLDING CLIP
DRAIN BOLT
WASHER
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Turn off the engine, let it sit for
several minutes, then check the oil
level. If necessary, add oil to bring
the level to the upper mark on the
dipstick.
Put the under cover back in place
and reinstall the nine holding clips.
Lock the clips securely by pushing
on the center of each clip.
Put a new washer on the drain bolt,
then reinstall the drain bolt.
Tighten it to:
Refill the engine with the recom-
mended oil.
Engine oil change capacity
(including filter):
Replace the engine oil fill cap.
Start the engine. The oil pressure
indicator light should go out within
five seconds. If it does not, turn off
the engine and reinspect your
work.
Let the engine run for several
minutes and check the drain bolt
and oil filter for leaks.
Remove the oil filter and let the
remaining oil drain. A special
wrench (available from your
Honda dealer) is required to
remove the filter.
Install a new oil filter according to
instructions that come with it.
7.
8.
9.
10.
12.
11.
5.
6.
Engine Oil
Maintenance
198
OIL FILTER
29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)
3.4 US qt (3.2
, 2.8 Imp qt)
Improper disposal of engine oil can be
harmful to the environment. If you
change your own oil, please dispose of
the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed
container and take it to a recycling
center. Do not discard it in a trash bin
or dump it on the ground.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If the coolant level in the reserve
tank is at or below the MIN line, add
coolant to bring it up to the MAX line.
Inspect the cooling system for leaks.
The coolant you add should always
be a mixture of 50 percent antifreeze
and 50 percent water. Never add
straight antifreeze or plain water.
If the reserve tank is completely
empty, you should also check the
coolant level in the radiator.
Make sure the engine and radiator
are cool.
Always use Honda All Season
Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This
coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent
antifreeze and 50 percent water. It
does not require any additional
mixing. If it is not available, you may
use another major-brand non-silicate
coolant as a temporary replacement.
Make sure it is a high-quality coolant
recommended for aluminum engines.
However, continued use of any non-
Honda coolant can result in
corrosion, causing the cooling
system to malfunction or fail. Have
the cooling system flushed and
refilled with Honda antifreeze/
coolant as soon as possible. 1.
CONTINUED
Adding Engine Coolant
Cooling System
Maintenance
199
RESERVE TANK
Removing the radiator cap
while the engine is hot can
cause the coolant to spray out,
seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and
radiator cool down before
removing the radiator cap.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
＋
Remove the battery and the tray.
Remove the reserve tank
mounting bolt with a wrench, then
remove the coolant tube from the
three clips. Remove the reserve
tank from its holder and drain the
coolant into an appropriate
container.
To remove the reserve tank to
drain the coolant, first remove the
battery.
Disconnect the battery cables
from the terminals. Disconnect
the negative ( ) cable first, then
the positive ( ) cable.
Remove the bolt and the nut with
a wrench, and remove the battery
plate. Pull the bottom end of the
stay out of the hole, and remove
the stay and the battery cover.
Remove the cover to access the
drain bolt (see page ). Remove
the drain bolt and washer from the
engine block. Drain the coolant
into an appropriate container.
4. 5.
6.
7.
8.
197
Cooling System
Maintenance
202
DRAIN BOLT
STAY
NUT
BOLT
COVER
TAB
BOLT
Main Menu
Table of Contents
＋
−
CONTINUED
If your car’s battery is disconnected
or goes dead, the audio system will
disableitself.Thenexttimeyouturn
on the radio you will see ‘‘ ’’
in the frequency display. Use the
Preset buttons to enter the five-digit
code (see page ).
When the audio system disables
itself, the clock setting will cancel.
To reset the clock, refer to the
Digital Clock in the audio system’s
operation.
When the coolant stops draining,
tightenthedrainplugatthe
bottom of the radiator.
Put a new washer on the drain bolt,
then reinstall the drain bolt in the
engine block. Tighten it securely.
Tightening torque:
Loosen the bleeder bolt on top of
the engine.
Put the tube back in the clips and
put the reserve tank back in place,
making sure its bottom tab is in
the holder. Reinstall and tighten
the mounting bolt securely.
Reinstall the tray, battery, stay,
battery case, and battery plate in
the reverse order of removal.
Reinstall and tighten the bolt and
nut securely.
Reconnect the battery cables to
the terminals. Connect the positive
( ) cable first, then the negative
()cable.
Battery posts,
terminals and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds.
Reinstall the cover.
137
12.
13.
11.
10.
9.
15.
14.
Cooling System
Maintenance
WARNING:
Wash hands after handling.
203
BLEEDER BOLT
58 lbf·ft (78 N·m , 8.0 kgf·m)
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Start the engine and let it run until
the radiator cooling fan comes on
at least twice. Then stop the
engine.
Remove the radiator cap. Fill the
radiator with coolant up to the
base of the filler neck.
The cooling system capacity is:
Tighten the bleeder bolt when
coolant comes out in a steady
stream with no bubbles.
Start the engine and let it run for
about 30 seconds. Then turn off
the engine.
Check the level in the radiator,
add coolant if needed.
Fill the reserve tank to the MAX
mark. Install the reserve tank cap.
Install the radiator cap, and
tighten it to the first stop.
Pour Honda All Season
Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 into
the radiator up to the base of the
filler neck. This coolant is a
mixture of 50 percent antifreeze
and 50 percent water. Pre-mixing
is not required.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
With 5-speed manual transmission:
With continuously variable transmission
(CVT):
Cooling System
Maintenance
204
FILLER NECK
Fill up to here
1.08 US gal (4.1 , 0.90 Imp gal)
1.06 US gal (4.0
, 0.88 Imp gal)
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Fill the reservoir with a good-quality
windshield washer fluid. This
increases the cleaning capability and
prevents freezing in cold weather.
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 driver’s side
headlight. Check the reservoir’s fluid
level by removing the cap and
looking at the level gauge attached
to the cap.
The low washer level indicator will
light when the level is low (see page
).
Start the engine and hold it at
1,500 rpm until the radiator fan
comes on. Turn off the engine.
Check the coolant level in the
radiator and add coolant if needed.
Install the radiator cap, and
tighten it fully.
If necessary, fill the reserve tank
to the MAX mark. Install the
reserve tank cap.
65
24.
25.
26.
On Canadian models
CONTINUED
Maintenance
Cooling System, Windshield Washers
Windshield Washers
205
LEVEL GAUGE
WINDSHIELD WASHER RESERVOIR
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Check the fluid level with the engine
and transmission at normal operating
temperature.
Park the car on level ground. Shut
off the engine. For accurate
results, wait at least 60 seconds,
andnomorethan90seconds,
after shutting off the engine to
check the fluid level.
Remove the dipstick (yellow loop)
from the transmission and wipe it
with a clean cloth.
When you refill the reservoir, clean
the edges of the windshield wiper
blades with windshield washer fluid
on a clean cloth. This will help to
condition the blade edges.
1.
2.
Maintenance
Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT)
Windshield Washers, Transmission Fluid
206
DIPSTICK
Do not use engine antifreeze or a
vinegar/water solution in the
windshield washer reservoir.
Antifreeze can damage your car’s paint,
while a vinegar/water solution can
damage the windshield washer pump.
Use only commercially-available
windshield washer fluid.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If the level is below the lower
mark, add fluid into the filler hole
to bring it to the upper mark.
Insert the dipstick all the way into
the transmission securely as
shown in the illustration.
Remove the dipstick and check
the fluid level. It should be
between the upper and lower
marks within the HOT range.
Always use Honda ATF-Z1
(Automatic Transmission Fluid). If
it is not available, you may use a
DEXRON
III automatic
transmission fluid as a temporary
replacement. However, continued
use can affect shift quality. Have
the transmission flushed and
refilled with Honda ATF-Z1 as
soon as it is convenient.
To thoroughly flush the transmission,
the technician should drain and refill
it with Honda ATF-Z1, then drive the
vehicle a short distance. Do this
three times. Then drain and refill the
transmission a final time.
Pour the fluid slowly and carefully
so you do not spill. Clean up any
spills immediately. Spilled fluid
could damage components in the
engine compartment.
The transmission should be drained
and refilled with new fluid according
to the time and distance recommen-
dations in the maintenance schedule.
Insert the dipstick all the way back
into the transmission securely as
shown in the illustration.
5.
6.
3.
4.
Transmission Fluid
Maintenance
207
HOT
Range
UPPER
MARK
LOWER
MARK
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Check the fluid level with the
transmission at normal operating
temperature and the car sitting on
level ground. Remove the under
cover to access the transmission
housing(seepage ).Removethe
transmission filler bolt and carefully
feel inside the bolt hole with your
finger. The fluid level should be up
to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is
not, add Honda Manual Transmis-
sion Fluid (MTF) until it starts to
run out of the hole. Reinstall the
filler bolt and tighten it securely.
If Honda MTF is not available, you
may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40
viscosity motor oil with the API
Certification seal that says ‘‘For
Gasoline Engines’’ as a temporary
replacement. However, motor oil
does not contain the proper additives
andcontinuedusecancausestiffer
shifting. Replace as soon as it is
convenient.
The transmission should be drained
and refilled with new fluid according
to the time and distance recommen-
dations in the maintenance schedule.
197
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Fluid
Maintenance
208
Correct Level
FILLER BOLT
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The fluid level should be between
theMINandMAXmarksontheside
of the reservoir. If the level is at or
below the MIN mark, your brake
system needs attention. Have the
brake system inspected for leaks or
worn brake pads.
Always use Honda Heavy Duty
Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not
available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed
container, as a temporary
replacement. However, the use of
any non-Honda brake fluid can cause
corrosion and decrease the life of the
system. Have the brake system
flushed and refilled with Honda
Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as
soon as possible.
Check the fluid level in the reser-
voirs monthly. There are up to two
reservoirs, depending on the model.
They are:
Brake fluid reservoir (all models)
Clutch fluid reservoir
(manual transmission only)
The brake fluid should be replaced
according to the time recommenda-
tion in the maintenance schedule.
Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so
you do not spill. Clean up any spills
immediately. Spilled fluid could
damage components in the engine
compartment.
Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not
compatible with your car’s braking
system and can cause extensive
damage.
Brake System
Brake and Clutch Fluid
Maintenance
209
MAX
MIN
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The fluid level should be between
theMINandMAXmarksontheside
of the reservoir. If it is not, add
brake fluid to bring it up to that level.
Use the same fluid specified for the
brake system.
Low fluid level can indicate a leak in
the clutch system. Have this system
inspected as soon as possible.
Clutch System
Brake and Clutch Fluid
Maintenance
210
MAX
MIN
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Carefully clean the inside of the
air cleaner housing with a damp
rag.
Place the new air cleaner element
in the air cleaner housing.
The air cleaner element is inside the
air cleaner housing in the engine
compartment.
To replace it:
The air cleaner element should be
replaced according to the distance
recommendation in the maintenance
schedule.
Unsnap the four clips and remove
the air cleaner housing cover.
Remove the old air cleaner
element.
Reinstall the air cleaner housing
cover and snap the four clips back
into place.
1.
3.
2.
4.
5.
Replacement
Maintenance
Air Cleaner Element
211
CLIPS
CLIPS
AIR CLEANER ELEMENT
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Clean the hood latch assembly with a
mild cleaner, then lubricate it with a
multipurpose grease. Lubricate all
the moving parts (as shown),
including the pivot. Follow the time
and distance recommendations in
the Maintenance Schedule. If you
are not sure how to clean and grease
the latch, contact your Honda dealer.
Maintenance
Hood Latch
212
PIVOTS
LATCH
ASSEMBLY
Main Menu
Table of Contents
CONTINUED
The spark plugs in your car are a
special iridium-tipped design for
longer life. The spark plugs should
be replaced according to the
distance recommendation in the
maintenance schedule.
Loosen the two holding bolts with
a wrench and remove the
resonator chamber.
Clean up any dirt and oil that have
collected around the ignition coils.
To replace the ignition coils,
remove the engine cover by
pulling it straight up.
1. 2.
3.
Maintenance
Spark Plugs
Replacement
213
ENGINE
COVER
BOLTS
RESONATOR
CHAMBER
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Put the new spark plug into the
socket, then screw it into the hole.
Screw it in by hand so you do not
crossthread it.
Use a wrench to remove the nut
holding the ignition coil. Remove
the ignition coil by pulling it
straight out.
Remove the spark plug with
a five-eighths inch (16 mm) spark
plug socket.
Disconnect the wire connector
from the ignition coil by pushing
on the lock tab and pulling on the
connector. Pull on the plastic
connector, not the wires.
4. 5.
6.
7.
Spark Plugs
Maintenance
214
IGNITION COIL
CONNECTOR
LOCK TAB
NUT
Main Menu
Table of Contents
＋
−
Spark Plug Gap:
Install the ignition coil. Reinstall
the nut.
Push the wire connector onto the
ignition coil. Make sure it locks in
place.
Repeat this procedure for the
other seven spark plugs.
Reinstall the resonator chamber.
Tighten the two bolts securely on
it, then install the engine cover.
Torque the spark plug. (If you do
not have a torque wrench, tighten
the spark plug two-thirds of a turn
after it contacts the cylinder head.)
Tightening torque:
NGK:
DENSO:
9.
10.
11.
12.
8.
Maintenance
Spark Plugs
Specifications:
215
IFR5G-11K
SK16PR-L11
0.04 in (1.1 mm)
13 lbf·ft (18 N·m , 1.8 kgf·m)
0
0.1 mm
Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A
spark plug that is too loose can
overheat and damage the engine.
Overtightening can cause damage to
the threads in the cylinder head.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Check the battery terminals for
corrosion (a white or yellowish
powder). To remove it, cover the
terminals with a solution of baking
soda and water. It will bubble up and
turn brown. When this stops, wash it
off with plain water. Dry off the
battery with a cloth or paper towel.
Coat the terminals with grease to
help prevent future corrosion.
Check the battery condition by
looking at the test indicator window
on the battery.
The label on the battery explains the
test indicator’s colors.
Battery posts,
terminals and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds.
Check the condition of your car’s 12
volt battery monthly. You should
check the color of the test indicator
window, and for corrosion on the
terminals.
Battery
Maintenance
WARNING:
Wash hands after handling.
216
TEST INDICATOR WINDOW
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
If the terminals are severely cor-
roded, clean them with baking soda
and water. Then use a wrench to
loosen and remove the cables from
the terminals. Always disconnect the
negative ( ) cable first and recon-
nect it last. Clean the battery termi-
nals with a terminal cleaning tool or
wire brush. Reconnect and tighten
the cables, then coat the terminals
with grease.
If you need to connect the battery to
a charger, disconnect both cables to
prevent damage to the car’s
electrical system.
CONTINUED
Battery
Maintenance
217
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.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If your car’s battery is disconnected
or goes dead, the audio system will
disableitself.Thenexttimeyouturn
on the radio you will see ‘‘ ’’
in the frequency display. Use the
Preset buttons to enter the five-digit
code (see page ).
When the battery is disconnected,
the clock setting in the audio system
will be canceled. You will need to
reset the clock according to the
instructions of the audio system.
If your car’s 12 volt battery is
disconnected or goes dead, the IMA
battery level gauge reading may not
be correct the next time you turn the
ignition switch to ON (II). It may
show less than the actual level
temporarily. It will show the correct
level after you drive for at least 30
minutes.
137
Battery
Maintenance
218
Charging the battery with the cables
connected can seriously damage your
car’s electronic controls. Detach the
battery cables before connecting the
battery to a charger.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Disconnect the blade assembly
fromthewiperarmbypushingin
the lock tab. Hold it in while you
push the blade assembly toward
thebaseofthearm.
Raise the wiper arm off the
windshield.
To replace the blade:
Check the condition of the 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 if they leave streaks
and unwiped areas when used.
2.
1.
CONTINUED
Wiper Blades
Maintenance
219
WIPER ARMS
LOCK TAB
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Remove the blade from its holder
by grasping the tabbed end of the
blade. Pull firmly until the tabs
come out of the holder.
Examine the new wiper blades. If
they have no plastic or metal rein-
forcement along the back edge,
remove the metal reinforcement
strips from the old wiper blade and
install them in the slots along the
edge of the new blade.
Slide the new wiper blade into the
holder until the tabs lock.
Slide the wiper blade assembly
onto the wiper arm. Make sure it
locks in place.
Lower the wiper arm down against
the windshield.
3. 4.
5.
6.
7.
Wiper Blades
Maintenance
220
BLADE
REINFORCEMENT
BLADE
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Periodically check the engine’s
radiator and air conditioning
condenser for leaves, insects, and
dirt stuck to the front surface. These
block the air flow and reduce cooling
efficiency. Use a light spray from a
hose or a soft brush to remove them.
If the air conditioning does not get as
cold as before, have your dealer
check the system. Recharge the
system with Refrigerant HFC-134a
(R-134a). (See Specifications on page
.)
Run the air conditioning at least once
a week during the cold weather
months. Run it for at least ten
minutes while you are driving at a
steady speed with the engine at
normal operating temperature. This
circulates the lubricating oil con-
tained in the refrigerant.
Your car’s air conditioning is a sealed
system. Any major maintenance,
such as recharging, should be done
by a qualified mechanic. You can do
a couple of things to make sure the
air conditioning works efficiently. 289
Air Conditioning System
Maintenance
221
AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER
Whenever you have the air conditioning
system serviced, make sure the service
facility uses a refrigerant recycling
system. This system captures the
refrigerant for reuse. Releasing
refrigerant into the atmosphere can
damage the environment.
The condenser and radiator fins bend
easily. Only use a low-pressure spray
or soft-bristle brush to clean them.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To replace it:
Open the glove box. Remove the
hooks on the side panels by pulling
out on the tabs. Pivot the glove
box out of the way.
The dust and pollen filter is located
behind the glove box.
Remove the dust and pollen filter
cover by pushing in on the lock tab,
then pulling the cover toward you.
The dust and pollen filter removes
pollen and dust that is brought in
from the outside through the heating
andcoolingsystem.
This filter should be replaced every
30,000 miles (48,000 km) under
normal conditions. It should be
replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000
km) if you drive primarily in urban
areas that have high concentrations
of soot in the air from industry and
diesel-powered vehicles. Replace it
more often if air flow from the
heating and cooling system becomes
less than usual.
1.
2.
Dust and Pollen Filter
Maintenance
Replacement
222
HOOKS COVER
TAB
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Remove the first filter by pulling it
straight out of the air conditioning
unit. Remove the second filter by
sliding it to the left, then pulling it
out.
Install the dust and pollen filters
into the air conditioning unit.
Make sure the ‘‘AIR FLOW’’
arrows on the filter point
downward.
Reinstall the dust and pollen filter
cover.
Pivot the glove box up into
position. Reinstall the hooks into
thesidepaneloftheglovebox.
Close the glove box.
If you are not sure how to replace
the dust and pollen filters, have them
replaced by your Honda dealer.
Remove the old filter from the
filter case.
Install the new filter in the case.
Make sure the ‘‘AIR FLOW’’
arrows on the filter and the filter
case face the same direction.
3. 4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Dust and Pollen Filter
Maintenance
223
DUST AND POLLEN FILTERS
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−−
Check the condition of the drive belt.
Examine the edges of the belt for
cracks or fraying.
Check the tension of the belt by
pushingonitwithyourthumb
midway between the pulleys.
Thebeltshouldhavethefollowing
‘‘play’’ or deflection.
Compressor belt:
If you see signs of wear or looseness,
have your dealer adjust or replace
the belt.
Drive Belt
Maintenance
224
COMPRESSOR BELT
0.49 0.63 in (12.5 16.0 mm)
Main Menu
Table of Contents
We recommend that you visually
check your tires every day. If you
think a tire might be low, check it
immediately with a tire gauge.
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
for damage and wear, and what to do
when your tires need to be replaced.
Keeping the tires properly inflated
provides the best combination of
handling, tread life, and riding
comfort. Underinflated tires wear
unevenly, adversely affect handling
and fuel economy, and are more
likely to fail from being overheated.
Overinflated tires can make your car
ride more harshly, are more prone to
damage from road hazards, and wear
unevenly.
Use a gauge to measure the air
pressure at least once a month. Even
tires that are in good condition may
lose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1
to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month.
Remember to check the spare tire at
thesametimeyoucheckallthe
other tires.
Check the pressure in the tires when
they are cold. This means the car
has been parked for at least three
hours. If you have to drive the car
before checking the tire pressure,
the tires can still be considered
‘‘cold’’ if you drive less than 1 mile
(1.6 km).
If you check the pressure when the
tires are hot (the car has been driven
several miles), you will see readings
4 to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4
kgf/cm ) higher than the cold
reading. This is normal. Do not let
air out to match the specified cold
pressure. The tire will be
underinflated.
CONTINUED
Inflation
Tires
Maintenance
225
Using tires that are excessively
worn or improperly inflated can
cause a crash in which you can
be seriously hurt or killed.
Follow all instructions in this
owner’s manual regarding tire
inflation and maintenance.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
When you return to normal speed
driving, be sure to readjust the tire
pressure for normal driving. You
should wait until the tires are cold
before adjusting the tire pressure.
Honda strongly recommends that
you not drive faster than posted
speed limits and conditions allow. If
you decide it is safe to drive at high
speeds, be sure to adjust the cold tire
pressuresasshowninthenext
column. If you do not adjust the tire
pressure, excessive heat can build up
and cause sudden tire failure.
The following chart shows the
recommended cold tire pressures for
most normal driving conditions and
speeds.
Thecompactsparetirepressureis:
These pressures are also given on
thetireinformationlabelonthe
driver’s doorjamb.
Tubeless tires have some ability to
self-seal if they are punctured.
However, because leakage is often
very slow, you should look closely
for punctures if a tire starts losing
pressure.
Youshouldgetyourowntire
pressure gauge and use it whenever
you check your tire pressures. This
will make it easier for you to tell if a
pressure loss is due to a tire problem
and not due to a variation between
gauges.
Tire Size
Cold Tire Pressure
for Speeds over 100
mph (160 km/h)
Tire Size Cold Tire Pressure
for Normal Driving
Tires
Maintenance
Tire Pressure Adjustment for High
Speed Driving
Recommended Tire Pressures for
Normal Driving
226
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )
P185/70R14 87S 30 psi (210 kPa , 2.1
kgf/cm
)
P185/70R14 87S 35 psi (240 kPa , 2.4
kgf/cm
)
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Every time you check inflation, you
should also examine the tires for
damage, foreign objects, and wear.
Youshouldlookfor:
Bumps or bulges in the tread or
side of the tire. Replace the tire if
youfindeitheroftheseconditions.
Excessive tread wear.
In addition to proper inflation,
correct wheel alignment helps to
decrease tire wear. If you find a tire
is worn unevenly, have your dealer
check the wheel alignment.
Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side
of the tire. Replace the tire if you
can see fabric or cord.
The tires were properly balanced by
the factory. They may need to be
rebalanced at some time before they
are worn out. Have your dealer
check the tires if you feel a consis-
tent vibration while driving. A tire
should always be rebalanced if it is
removed from the wheel for repair.
Your car’s tires have wear indicators
molded into the tread. When the
tread wears down to that point, you
will see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide
band running across the tread. This
shows there is less than 1/16 inch
(1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. A
tire that is this worn gives very little
traction on wet roads. You should
replace the tire if you can see the
tread wear indicator in three or more
places around the tire.
CONTINUED
Inspection Maintenance
Tires
Maintenance
227
INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS
TREAD WEAR INDICATOR
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When shopping for replacement
tires, you may find that some tires
are ‘‘directional.’’ This means they
are designed to rotate only in one
direction. If you use directional tires,
they should be rotated only front-to-
back.
Make sure the installer balances the
wheels when you have new tires
installed. This increases riding
comfort and tire life. Your car’s
original tires were dynamic or ‘‘spin’’
balanced at the factory. For best
results, have the installer perform a
dynamic balance.
To help increase tire life and
distribute wear more evenly, you
should have the tires rotated every
10,000 miles (16,000 km). Move the
tires to the positions shown in the
chart each time they are rotated.
Tire Rotation
Tires
Maintenance
228
Front Front
(For Non-directional
Tires and Wheels)
(For Directional
Tires and Wheels)
Improper wheel weights can damage
your vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Use
only genuine Honda wheel weights for
balancing.
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The tires that came with your car
were selected to match the perform-
ance capabilities of the car while
providing the best combination of
handling, ride comfort, and long life.
Youshouldreplacethemwithradial
tires of the same size, load range,
speed rating, and maximum cold tire
pressure rating (as shown on the
tire’s sidewall). Mixing radial and
bias-ply tires on your car can reduce
its braking ability, traction, and
steering accuracy. It is best to replace all four tires at
thesametime.Ifthatisnotpossible
or necessary, then replace the two
front tires or the two rear tires as a
pair. Replacing just one tire can
seriously affect your car’s handling.
TheABSworksbycomparingthe
speed of the wheels. When replacing
tires, use the same size originally
supplied with the car. Tire size and
construction can affect wheel speed
and may cause the system to work
inconsistently.
If you ever need to replace a wheel,
make sure the wheel’s specifications
match those of the original wheel
that came on your car. Replacement
wheels are available at your Honda
dealer.
Replacing Tires and Wheels
Tires
Maintenance
229
Installing improper tires on your
car can affect handling and
stability. This can cause a crash
in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.
Always use the size and type of
tires recommended in this
owner’s manual.
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＋
Wheels:
Tires that are marked ‘‘M S’’ or
‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an
all-weather tread design. They
should be suitable for most winter
driving conditions. Tires without
these markings are designed for
optimum traction in dry conditions.
They may not provide adequate
performance in winter driving.
For the best performance in snowy
or icy conditions, you should install
snow tires or tire chains. They may
be required by local laws under
certain conditions.
If you mount snow tires on your
Honda, make sure they are radial
tires of the same size and load range
as the original tires. Mount snow
tiresonallfourwheelstobalance
your car’s handling in all weather
conditions. Keep in mind the traction
provided by snow tires on dry roads
may not be as high as your car’s
original equipment tires. You should
drive cautiously even when the roads
areclear.Checkwiththetiredealer
for maximum speed recommenda-
tions.
Tires:
See page for information about
DOT Tire Quality Grading.
290
Snow Tires
Wheels and Tires Winter Driving
Tires
Maintenance
230
14x51/2JJ
P185/70R14 87S
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Because your Honda has limited tire
clearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’
cable-type traction devices on the
front tires. Use traction devices only
when required by driving conditions
or local laws. Make sure they are the
correct size for your tires.
Metal link-type ‘‘chains’’ should not
be used. No matter how tight they
seem to be installed, they can come
into contact with the body and
suspension, causing serious damage.
When installing cables, follow the
manufacturer’s instructions and
mount them as tightly as you can.
Drive slowly with them installed. If
youhearthemcomingincontact
with the body or chassis, stop and
investigate. Make sure the cables are
installed tightly, and that they are
not contacting the brake lines or
suspension. Remove them as soon as
you begin driving on cleared roads.
Tire Chains
Tires
Maintenance
231
Traction devices that are the wrong
size or improperly installed can
damage your vehicle’s brake lines,
suspension, body, and wheels. Stop
driving if they are hitting any part of
the vehicle.
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Check the operation of your car’s
exterior lights at least once a month.
A burned out bulb can create an
unsafe condition by reducing your
car’s visibility and the ability to
signal your intentions to other
drivers.
Lights
Maintenance
232
TURN SIGNAL/SIDE MARKER
HEADLIGHT
PARKING LIGHT
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Check the following:
If you find any bulbs are burned out,
replace them as soon as possible.
Refer to the chart on page to
determine what type of replacement
bulb is needed.
Headlights (low and high beam)
Parking lights
Taillights
Brake lights
High-mount brake light
Turn signals
Back-up lights
Hazard light function
License plate lights
Side marker lights
Daytime running lights
(Canadian models)
289
Lights
Maintenance
233
STOP/TAILLIGHT/
REAR SIDE MARKER LIGHT
TAILLIGHT
HIGH-MOUNT
BRAKE LIGHT
TURN SIGNAL LIGHT
BACK-UP LIGHT
LICENSE
PLATE LIGHTS
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Table of Contents
Open the hood.
Your car has halogen headlight
bulbs, one on each side. When
replacing a bulb, handle it by its steel
base and protect the glass from
contactwithyourskinorhard
objects. If you touch the glass, clean
it with denatured alcohol and a clean
cloth.
Theheadlightswereproperlyaimed
when your car was new. If you
regularly carry heavy items in the
trunk, readjustment may be required.
Adjustment of the headlights should
be performed by a Honda technician
or other qualified mechanic.
If you need to change the head-
light bulb on the driver’s side,
remove the holding clip from the
stay with a flat-tipped screwdriver,
then remove the upper part of the
washer fluid reservoir tank by
pulling it out.
1.
Replacing a Headlight BulbHeadlight Aiming
Lights
Maintenance
234
HOLDING CLIP
Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot
when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch
on the glass can cause the bulb to
overheat and shatter.
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If you are changing the bulb on
the driver’s side, start the engine,
turn the steering wheel all the way
to the right, and turn off the
engine. If you are changing the
bulb on the passenger’s side, turn
the steering wheel to the left.
(Driver’s side)
Turn on the headlights to test the
new bulb.
Insert the new bulb into the hole,
making sure the tabs are in their
slots. Pivot the hold-down wire
back in place and clip the end into
the slot.
Install the rubber seal over the
back of the headlight assembly.
Make sure it is right side up; it is
marked ‘‘TOP.’’
Remove the electrical connector
from the bulb by pulling the
connector straight back.
Remove the rubber weather seal
by pulling on the tab.
Unclip the end of the hold-down
wire from its slot. Pivot it out of
the way and remove the bulb.
Push the electrical connector onto
the new bulb. Make sure it is
connected securely.
Reinstall the upper part of the
windshield washer reservoir.
Install the holding clip on the stay
and lock it by pushing on the
center of clip.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
1.
2.
CONTINUED
Replacing the Front Side Marker/
Turn Signal and Parking Light
Bulbs
Lights
Maintenance
235
BULB WEATHER SEAL
HOLD-DOWN WIRE CONNECTOR
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Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to
remove the holding clip from the
inner fender.
Pull the inner fender cover back.
Remove the socket from the
headlight assembly by turning it
one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
Pull the bulb straight out of its
socket.
Push the new bulb straight into
the socket until it bottoms.
Insert the socket back into the
headlight assembly. Turn it
clockwise to lock it in place.
Testthelightstomakesurethe
new bulb is working.
Put the inner fender cover in place.
Install the holding clip. Lock it in
place by pushing on the center.
3.
2. 4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Lights
Maintenance
236
HOLDING CLIP
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Open the trunk. Determine which of the two bulbs
is burned out: stop/taillight/side
marker light or turn signal light.
Pull the bulb straight out of its
socket.
Push the new bulb straight into
the socket until it bottoms.
Reinstall the socket into the light
assembly by turning it clockwise
until it locks.
Testthelightstomakesurethe
new bulb is working.
Remove the socket by turning it
one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
Reinstall the trunk lining. Make
sure it is installed under the edge
of the trunk seal.
Remove the screws in the center
of each of the two fasteners on the
side of the trunk lining. Pull the
lining back.
Put the fasteners into the holes on
the side of the trunk lining.
Reinstall the screws.
1. 2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Replacing Rear Bulbs
(in Fenders)
Lights
Maintenance
237
FASTENERS
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Open the trunk and remove the
socket from the light assembly by
turning it one-quarter turn counter-
clockwise.
Pull the bulb straight out of its
socket.
Push the new bulb straight into
the socket until it bottoms.
Pull the bulb straight out of its
socket.
Push the new bulb straight into
the socket until it bottoms.
Insert the socket back into the
light assembly. Turn it clockwise
to lock it in place.
Testthelightstomakesurethe
new bulb is working.
Open the trunk.
Determine which of the two bulbs
is burned out: taillight or back-up
light.
Remove the socket by turning it
one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
1.
2.
4.
5.
6.
1.
2.
3.
Replacing a High-mount Brake
Light Bulb
Replacing Rear Bulbs
(in Trunk Lid)
Lights
Maintenance
238
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Turn on the parking lights and
check that the new bulb is
working.
Reinstall the socket. Turn it
clockwise until it locks. Make sure
the new bulb is working.
Reinstall the socket back in place
by pushing it in until it latches.
Open the trunk.
Remove the socket from the light
assembly by squeezing the tabs on
both sides of the socket.
Pull the bulb straight out of its
socket. Push the new bulb in until
it bottoms in the socket.
2.
1.
3. 4.
5.
3.
Replacing a Rear License Plate
Bulb
Lights
Maintenance
239
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Pull the bulb straight out of the
holder. Push the new bulb straight
into the holder until it bottoms.
Put the light assembly back into
the hole, right side first. Push on
the left side until it snaps into
place.
Open the trunk.
Put a cloth on the left side edge of
the trunk light assembly. Remove
the trunk light assembly by using
a small flat-tipped screwdriver to
pry carefully on the left edge of
the assembly.
2.
3.
1.
Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb
Lights
Maintenance
240
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Although the ceiling light and
spotlights come apart the same way,
theydonotusethesametypeof
bulbs.
Removethelensbycarefully
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.
Ceiling light:
Pry on the side edge of the lens in
the middle.
Remove the bulb by pulling it
straight out of its metal tabs.
Push the new bulb into the metal
tabs. Snap the lens back in place.
2.
3.
1.
CONTINUED
Replacing Bulbs in the Interior
Lights
Lights
Maintenance
241
CEILING LIGHT
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Remove the bulb by pulling it
straight out of the bulb holder.
Push the new bulb into the bulb
holder.
Reinstall the lens by inserting the
outside edge first, then pushing on
the inside edge.
Check which bulb is burned out.
Push on the lens of the opposite
side you are replacing.
Remove the lens of the burned out
bulb by carefully prying on the
edge between the lenses with a
fingernail file or a small flat-tipped
screwdriver.
2.
3.
1.
4.
5.
Spotlights:
Lights
Maintenance
242
SPOT LIGHTS
Push
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Block the rear wheels.
Fill the fuel tank.
Change the engine oil and filter
(see page ).
Wash and dry the exterior
completely.
Cleantheinterior.Makesurethe
carpeting, floor mats, etc. are
completely dry.
If you need to park your car for an
extended period (more than one
month), there are several things you
should do to prepare it for storage.
Proper preparation helps prevent
deterioration and makes it easier to
get your car back on the road. If
possible, store your car indoors.
If the car is to be stored for a
longer period, it should be
supported on jackstands so the
tires are off the ground.
Leave one window open slightly (if
the car is being stored indoors).
Support the front wiper blade
arms with a folded towel or rag so
they do not touch the windshield.
To minimize sticking, apply a
silicone spray lubricant to all door
and trunk seals. Also, apply a
vehiclebodywaxtothepainted
surfaces that mate with the door
and trunk seals.
Coverthecarwitha‘‘breathable’’
cover, one made from a porous
material such as cotton.
Nonporous materials, such as
plastic sheeting, trap moisture,
which can damage the paint.
Leave the parking brake off. Put
the transmission in Reverse (5-
speed manual) or Park (CVT).
Disconnect the 12 volt battery.
Reconnect the 12 volt battery and
drive your car every month for
about 30 minutes. This will keep
the IMA battery charged and in
good condition.
If you store your car for 12 months
or longer, have your Honda dealer
perform the inspections called for in
the 24 months maintenance schedule
(Normal Conditions) as soon as you
take it out of storage (see page ).
The replacements called for in the
maintenance schedule are not
needed unless the car has actually
reached that time or mileage.
197
186
Storing Your Car
Maintenance
243
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244
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Regular cleaning and polishing of
your Honda helps to keep it ‘‘new’’
looking. This section gives you hints
on how to clean your car and
preserve its appearance: the paint,
brightwork, wheels and interior. Also
included are several things you can
do to help prevent corrosion.
.................................Exterior Care . 246
.....................................Washing . 246
............................Roof Antenna . 247
.......................................Waxing . 247
....................Aluminum Wheels . 248
..........................Paint Touch-up . 248
..................................Interior Care . 249
...................................Carpeting . 249
.................................Floor Mats . 249
.........................................Fabric . 250
...........................................Vinyl . 250
...................................Seat Belts . 250
....................................Windows . 251
..........................Air Fresheners . 251
....................Corrosion Protection . 252
.................................Body Repairs . 253
Appearance Care
Appearance Care
245
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When you have washed and rinsed
the whole exterior, dry it with a
chamois or soft towel. Letting it
air-dry will cause dulling and water
spots.
Only use the solvents and cleaners
recommendedinthisOwner’s
Manual.
Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix
in a mild detergent, such as
dishwashing liquid or a product
made especially for car washing.
Frequent washing helps preserve
your car’s beauty. Dirt and grit can
scratch the paint, while tree sap and
bird droppings can permanently ruin
the finish.
Wash your car in a shady area, not in
direct sunlight. If the car is parked in
the sun, move it into the shade and
let the exterior cool down before you
start.
Rinse the car thoroughly with cool
water to remove loose dirt.
Wash the car using the water and
detergent solution and a soft-
bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth.
Start at the top and work your way
down. Rinse frequently.
Check the body for road tar, tree
sap, etc. Remove these stains with
tar remover or turpentine. Rinse it
off immediately so it does not
harm the finish. Remember to re-
wax these areas, even if the rest of
the car does not need waxing.
As you dry the car, inspect it for
chips and scratches that could allow
corrosion to start. Repair them with
touch-up paint (see page ).248
Exterior Care
Appearance Care
Washing
246
Chemical solvents and strong cleaners
can damage the paint, metal, and
plastic on your car.
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−
−
Beforeusinganautomaticcarwash,
remove the radio antenna so it does
not get damaged. Remove the
antenna by unscrewing it. When you
reinstall the antenna, tighten it
securely.
Before entering or parking in areas
with low ceiling height, push the
antenna down.
Always wash and dry the whole car
before waxing it. You should wax
your car, including the metal trim,
whenever water sits on the surface
in large patches. It should form into
beads or droplets after waxing.
You should use a quality liquid or
paste wax. Apply it according to the
instructions on the container. In
general, there are two types of
products:
Waxes A wax coats the finish and
protects it from damage by exposure
to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You
should use a wax on your Honda
when it is new.
Polishes Polishes and cleaner/
waxescanrestoretheshinetopaint
that has oxidized and lost some of its
shine. They normally contain mild
abrasives and solvents that remove
the top layer of the finish. You
should use a polish on your Honda if
the finish does not have its original
shine after using a wax.
Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with
removers also takes off the wax.
Remember to re-wax those areas,
even if the rest of the car does not
need waxing.
Roof Antenna Waxing
Exterior Care
Appearance Care
247
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Clean your Honda’s aluminum alloy
wheels as you do the rest of the
exterior.Washthemwiththesame
solution, and rinse them thoroughly.
The wheels have a protective clear-
coat that keeps the aluminum from
corroding and tarnishing. Using
harsh chemicals, including some
commercial wheel cleaners, or stiff
brushes can damage this clear-coat.
Only use a mild detergent and soft
brush or sponge to clean the wheels.
Your dealer has touch-up paint to
match your car’s color. The color
code is printed on a sticker on the
driver’s doorjamb. Take this code to
your dealer so you are sure to get
the correct color.
Inspect your car frequently for chips
or scratches in the paint. Repair
them right away to prevent corrosion
of the metal underneath. Use the
touch-up paint only on small chips
and scratches. More extensive paint
damage should be repaired by a
professional.
Aluminum Wheels Paint Touch-up
Exterior Care
Appearance Care
248
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Vacuum the carpeting frequently to
remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make
the carpet wear out faster.
Periodically shampoo the carpet to
keep it looking new. Use one of the
foam-type carpet cleaners on the
market. Follow the instructions that
come with the cleaner, applying it
with a sponge or soft brush. Keep
the carpeting as dry as possible by
not adding water to the foam.
If you remove the floor mat, make
sure to re-anchor it when you put it
back in your car.
The Honda driver’s floor mat was
designed to hook over the floor mat
anchors. This keeps the floor mat
from sliding forward and possibly
interfering with the pedals.
If you replace it, use a Honda floor
matthatisdesignedtobeusedwith
the floor mat anchors in your car.
If you use a non-Honda floor mat in
the driver’s footwell, make sure it
fits properly and that it can be used
with the floor mat anchor.
Do not put additional floor mats on
top of the anchored mat, otherwise
the additional mats may slide
forward and interfere with the pedals.
If equipped
Carpeting Floor Mats
Interior Care
Appearance Care
249
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Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat
belt anchors can cause the belts to
retract slowly. Wipe the insides of
the loops with a clean cloth
dampened in mild soap and warm
water or isopropyl alcohol.
Vacuum dirt and dust out of the
material frequently. For general
cleaning, use a solution of mild soap
and lukewarm water, letting it air dry.
To clean off stubborn spots, use a
commercially-available fabric cleaner.
Test it on a hidden area of the fabric
first, to make sure it does not bleach
or stain the fabric. Follow the
instructions that come with the
cleaner.
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.
If your seat belts get dirty, you can
use a soft brush with a mixture of
mild soap and warm water to clean
them. Do not use bleach, dye, or
cleaning solvents. They can weaken
the belt material. Let the belts air-
drybeforeyouusethecar.
Fabric
Vinyl
Seat Belts
Interior Care
Appearance Care
250
LOOP
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Clean the windows, inside and out,
with a commercially-available glass
cleaner. You can also use a mixture
of one part white vinegar to ten parts
water. This will remove the haze that
builds up on the inside of the
windows. Use a soft cloth or paper
towels to clean all glass and clear
plastic surfaces. If you use a liquid air freshener,
make sure you fasten it securely so it
does not spill as you drive.
If you want to use an air freshener/
deodorizer in the interior of your car,
it is best to use a solid type. Some
liquid air fresheners contain chemi-
cals that may cause parts of the
interior trim and fabric to crack or
discolor.
Windows Air Fresheners
Interior Care
Appearance Care
251
The rear window defogger wires are
bonded to the inside of the glass.
Wiping vigorously up-and-down can
dislodge and break the defogger wires.
When cleaning the rear window, use
gentle pressure and wipe side-to-side.
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Two factors normally contribute to
causing corrosion in your car:
Moisture trapped in body cavities.
Dirtandroadsaltthatcollectsin
hollows on the underside of the
car stays damp, promoting
corrosion in that area.
Removal of paint and protective
coatings from the exterior and
underside of the car.
Many corrosion-preventive measures
are built into your Honda. You can
help keep your car from corroding
by performing some simple periodic
maintenance:
Repair chips and scratches in the
paint as soon as you discover them.
Inspect and clean out the drain
holes in the bottom of the doors
and body.
Check the floor coverings for
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.
Use a high-pressure spray to clean
the underside of your car. This is
especially important in areas that
useroadsaltinwinter.Itisalsoa
good idea in humid climates and
areas subject to salt air. Cars
equipped with ABS have a sensor
and wiring at each wheel. Be
careful not to damage them.
Have the corrosion-preventive
coatings on the underside of your
car inspected and repaired
periodically.
1.
2.
Corrosion Protection
Appearance Care
252
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Body repairs can affect your car’s
resistance to corrosion. If your car
needs repairs after a collision, pay
close attention to the parts used in
the repair and the quality of the
work.
Make sure the repair facility uses
Honda replacement body parts.
Some companies make sheet metal
pieces that seem to duplicate the
original Honda body parts, but are
actually inferior in fit, finish, and
corrosion resistance. Once installed,
they do not give the same high-
quality appearance.
When reporting your collision to the
insurance company, tell them you
want Honda parts used in the repair.
Although most insurers recognize
the quality of original parts, some
maytrytospecifythattherepairsbe
done with other available parts. You
should investigate this before any
repairs have begun.
Takeyourcartoyourauthorized
Honda dealer for inspection after the
repairs are completed. Your dealer
can make sure that quality materials
were used, and that corrosion-
preventive coatings were applied to
all repaired and replaced parts.
Body Repairs
Appearance Care
253
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254
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This section covers the more-
common problems that motorists
experience with their vehicles. It
gives you information about how to
safely evaluate the problem and what
to do to correct it. If the problem has
stranded you on the side of the road,
you may be able to get going again.
If not, you will also find instructions
on getting your car towed.
......................Compact Spare Tire . 256
....................Changing a Flat Tire . 257
..........If Your Engine Won’t Start . 263
Nothing Happens or the Starter
Motor Operates Very
.....................................Slowly . 263
The Starter Operates
................................Normally . 264
................................Jump Starting . 265
............If Your Engine Overheats . 268
.........Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 271
..........Charging System Indicator . 272
.......Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 273
.......................Readiness Codes . 274
...............Brake System Indicator . 275
..............................................Fuses . 276
..........Checking and Replacing . 277
......................Emergency Towing . 282
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Taking Care of the Unexpected
255
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Follow these precautions whenever
you are using the compact spare tire:
Thecompactsparetirehasashorter
tread life than a regular tire. Replace
it when you can see the tread wear
indicator bars. The replacement
should be the same size and design
tire, mounted on the same wheel.
Thecompactsparetireisnot
designed to be mounted on a regular
wheel, and the compact wheel is not
designed for mounting a regular tire.
Check the inflation pressure of the
compact spare tire every time you
check the other tires. It should be
inflated to:
Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h)
under any circumstances.
This tire gives a harsher ride and
less traction on some road sur-
faces than the regular tire. Use
greater caution while driving on
this tire.
Do not mount snow chains on the
compact spare.
Your car has a compact spare tire
that takes up less space. Use this
sparetireasatemporaryreplace-
ment only. Get your regular tire
repaired or replaced and put it back
on your car as soon as you can.
The wheel of the compact spare
tire is designed especially to fit
your car. Do not use your spare
tire on another vehicle unless it is
thesamemakeandmodel.
Compact Spare Tire
Taking Care of the Unexpected
256
INDICATOR LOCATION MARK
TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )
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If you have a flat tire while driving,
stop in a safe place to change it.
Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder
of a busy road is dangerous. Drive
slowly along the shoulder until you
gettoanexitoranareatostopthat
is far away from the traffic lanes.
Park the car on firm, level and
non-slippery ground away from
traffic. Put the transmission in
Park (automatic) or Reverse
(manual). Apply the parking brake.
Turn on the hazard warning lights
and turn the ignition switch to
LOCK (0). Have all the
passengers get out of the car while
you change the tire.
2.
1.
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Changing a Flat Tire
Taking Care of the Unexpected
257
The car can easily roll off the
jack, seriously injuring anyone
underneath.
Follow the directions for
changing a tire exactly, and
never get under the car when it
is supported only by the jack.
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Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2
turn with the wheel wrench.
Turn the jack’s end bracket
counterclockwise to loosen it, then
remove the jack.
Open the trunk. Raise the trunk
floor mat and the trunk floor by
lifting up on the back edge.
Take the tool kit out of the trunk.
Unscrew the wing bolt and take
the spare tire out of its well.
6. 7.3.
4.
5.
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Changing a Flat Tire
258
SPARE TIRE
TRUNK FLOOR
TOOL KIT
JACK
JACK
WHEEL WRENCH
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CONTINUED
Use the extension and wheel
wrench as shown to raise the car
until the flat tire is off the ground.
Find the jacking point nearest the
wheel you are removing. Place the
jack under the jacking point. Turn
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.
Remove the wheel nuts, then
remove the flat tire. Temporarily
place the flat tire on the ground
with the outside surface of the
wheel facing up. You could scratch
the wheel if you put it face down.
9.8. 10.
Changing a Flat Tire
Taking Care of the Unexpected
259
JACKING POINTS
WHEEL WRENCH EXTENSION
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Lowerthecartothegroundand
remove the jack.
Put on the spare tire. Put the
wheel nuts back on finger-tight,
then tighten them in a crisscross
pattern with the wheel wrench
until the wheel is firmly against
the hub. Do not try to tighten
them fully.
Before mounting the spare tire,
wipeanydirtoffthemounting
surface of the wheel and hub with
a clean cloth. Wipe the hub
carefully,itmaybehotfrom
driving.
11. 12.
13.
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Changing a Flat Tire
260
BRAKE HUB
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Tighten the wheel nuts securely in
the same crisscross pattern. Have
the wheel nut torque checked at
the nearest automotive service
facility.
Tighten the wheel nuts to:
Place the flat tire face down in the
spare tire well.
Remove the center cap before
storing the flat tire in the spare
tire well.
Wrap the spacer cone and spare
tire wing bolt with cloth or paper
and store them in the spare tire
well.
14.
16.
15.
17.
CONTINUED
Changing a Flat Tire
Taking Care of the Unexpected
261
CENTER CAP
80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)
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Store the jack in the trunk with the
end bracket on the left side. Turn
the jack’s end bracket to lock it in
place. Store the tool kit.
Lower the trunk floor and trunk
floor mat, then close the trunk lid.
Store the center cap in the trunk.
Make sure it does not get scratch-
ed or damaged.
18. 19.
20.
Changing a Flat Tire
Taking Care of the Unexpected
262
Loose items can fly around the
interior in a crash and could
seriously injure the occupants.
Store the wheel, jack, and tools
securely before driving.
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Diagnosing why your engine won’t
start falls into two areas, depending
on what you hear when you turn the
key to START (III):
When you turn the ignition switch to
START (III), you do not hear the
normal noise of the engine trying to
start. You may hear a clicking sound
or series of clicks, or nothing at all.
Check these things:
You hear nothing, or almost
nothing. The engine’s starter
motor does not operate at all, or
operates very slowly.
You can hear the starter motor
operating normally, or the starter
motor sounds like it is spinning
faster than normal, but the engine
does not start up and run.
Check the transmission interlock.
If you have a manual transmission,
the clutch pedal must be pushed
all the way to the floor or the
starter will not operate. With an
automatic transmission, it must be
in Park or Neutral.
Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
Turn on the headlights and check
their brightness. If the headlights
are very dim or don’t light at all,
the battery is discharged. See
on page .
Turn the ignition switch to START
(III). If the headlights do not dim,
check the condition of the fuses. If
the fuses are OK, there is proba-
bly something wrong with the
electrical circuit for the ignition
switch or starter motor. You will
need a qualified technician to
determine the problem. (See
on page .)
If the headlights dim noticeably or
go out when you try to start the
engine, either the battery is dis-
charged or the connections are
corroded. Check the condition of
the battery and terminal connec-
tions (see page ). You can
then try jump starting the car from
a booster battery (see page ).
265
282
216
265
CONTINUED
Nothing Happens or the Starter
Motor Operates Very Slowly
Jump Starting
Emergency Towing
If Your Engine Won’t Start
Taking Care of the Unexpected
263
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Ifyoufindnothingwrong,youwill
need a qualified technician to find
the problem. See
on page .
In this case, the starter motor’s
speed sounds normal, or even faster
than normal, when you turn the
ignition switch to START (III), but
the engine does not run.
Your car has the Immobilizer
System. You should use a
properly-coded master or valet key
to start the engine (see page ).
A key that is not properly coded
will cause the immobilizer system
indicator in the dash panel to blink
rapidly.
Are you using the proper starting
procedure? Refer to
on page .
Do you have fuel? Turn the
ignition switch to ON (II) for a
minute and watch the fuel gauge.
The low fuel level warning light
may not be working, so you were
not reminded to fill the tank.
There may be an electrical
problem, such as no power to the
fuel pump. Check all the fuses
(see page ).84
161
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282
Emergency
Towing
The Starter Operates Normally
Starting the
Engine
If Your Engine Won’t Start
Taking Care of the Unexpected
264
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To jump start your car, follow these
directions closely:
Open the hood and check the
physical condition of the battery
(see page ). In very cold
weather, check the condition of
the electrolyte. If it seems slushy
or like ice, do not try jump starting
until it thaws.
Turn off all the electrical acces-
sories: heater, A/C, stereo system,
lights, etc.
Put the transmission in Neutral or
Park, and set the parking brake.
If your car’s 12 volt battery has run
down,youmaybeabletostartthe
engine by using a booster battery.
Although this seems like a simple
procedure, you should take several
precautions.
You cannot start a Honda with an
automatic transmission (CVT) by
pushing or pulling it.
1.
2.
216
CONTINUED
Jump Starting
Taking Care of the Unexpected
265
A battery can explode if you do
not follow the correct procedure,
seriously injuring anyone
nearby.
Keep all sparks, open flames,
and smoking materials away
from the battery.
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.
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＋
＋
−
Connect one jumper cable to the
positive ( ) terminal on your
Honda’s battery. Connect the
other end to the positive ( )
terminal on the booster battery. If the booster battery is in another
vehicle, have an assistant start
that vehicle and run it at a fast idle.
The numbers in the illustration show
you the order to connect the jumper
cables.
Connect the second jumper cable
to the negative ( ) terminal on
the booster battery. Connect the
other end to the metal projection
on the side mount behind the
passenger side headlight as shown.
Do not connect this jumper cable
to any other part of the engine.
3. 4.
5.
Jump Starting
Taking Care of the Unexpected
266
BOOSTER BATTERY
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Keep the ends of the jumper cables
away from each other and any metal
on the car until all are disconnected.
Otherwise, you may cause an
electrical short.
Once your car is running, discon-
nectthenegativecablefromyour
car, then from the booster battery.
Disconnect the positive cable from
your car, then the booster battery.
Start your car. If the starter motor
still operates slowly, check the
jumper cable connections to make
sure they have good metal-to-
metal contact.
If your car’s 12 volt battery is
disconnected or goes dead, the IMA
battery level gauge reading may not
be correct the next time you turn the
ignition switch to ON (II). It may
show less than the actual level
temporarily. It will show the correct
level after you drive for at least 30
minutes.
7.
6.
Jump Starting
Taking Care of the Unexpected
267
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The reading on your car’s
temperature gauge should stay in
the midrange under most conditions.
Itmaygohigherifyouaredrivingup
a long steep hill on a very hot day. If
it climbs to the red mark, you should
determine the reason.
Your car can overheat for several
reasons, such as lack of coolant or a
mechanical problem. The only
indication may be the temperature
gauge climbing to or above the red
mark. Or you may see steam or
spray coming from under the hood.
In either case, you should take
immediate action.
Safely pull to the side of the road.
Put the transmission in Neutral or
Park, and set the parking brake.
Turn off the heating and cooling
system and all other accessories.
Turn on the hazard warning
indicators.
If you see steam and/or spray
coming from under the hood, turn
off the engine.
1.
2.
Taking Care of the Unexpected
If Your Engine Overheats
268
Steam and spray from an
overheated engine can
seriously scald you.
Do not open the hood if steam
is coming out.
Driving with the temperature gauge
reading at the red mark can cause
serious damage to your engine.
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CONTINUED
If you do not see steam or spray,
leave the engine running and
watch the temperature gauge. If
the high heat is due to overloading
(climbing a long, steep hill on a
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.
If the temperature gauge stays at
the red mark, turn off the engine.
Wait until you see no more signs
of steam or spray, then open the
hood.
Look for any obvious coolant leaks,
such as a split radiator hose.
Everything is still extremely hot,
so use caution. If you find a leak, it
must be repaired before you
continue driving (see
on page ).
If you don’t find an obvious leak,
check the coolant level in the
radiator reserve tank (see page
). If the level is below the
MIN mark, add coolant to halfway
between the MIN and MAX marks.
If there was no coolant in the
reserve tank, you may also have to
add coolant to the radiator. Let the
engine cool down until the reading
reaches the middle of the
temperature gauge, or lower,
before checking the radiator.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
282
149
Taking Care of the Unexpected
If Your Engine Overheats
Emergency
Towing
269
Removing the radiator cap
while the engine is hot can
cause the coolant to spray out,
seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and
radiator cool down before
removing the radiator cap.
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Using gloves or a large heavy
cloth, turn the radiator cap
counterclockwise, without pushing
down, to the first stop. This
releases any remaining pressure in
the cooling system. After the
pressure releases, push down on
the cap and turn it until it comes
off.
Start the engine and set the
temperature control dial to
maximum. Add coolant to the
radiator up to the base of the filler
neck. If you do not have the
proper coolant mixture available,
you can add plain water.
Remember to have the cooling
system drained and refilled with
the proper mixture as soon as you
can.
Put the radiator cap back on
tightly. Run the engine and watch
the temperature gauge. If it goes
back to the red mark, the engine
needs repair. (See
on page .)
If the temperature stays normal,
check the coolant level in the
radiator reserve tank. If it has
gone down, add coolant to the
MAX mark. Put the cap back on
tightly.
9.
10.
11.
12.
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Taking Care of the Unexpected
If Your Engine Overheats
Emergency
Towing
270
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This indicator should light when the
ignition switch is ON (II), and go out
after the engine starts. It should
never come on when the engine is
running. If it starts flashing, it
indicates that the oil pressure
dropped very low for a moment, then
recovered. If the indicator stays on
with the engine running, it shows
that the engine has lost oil pressure
and serious engine damage is
possible. In either case, you should
take immediate action.
Safely pull off the road and shut
off the engine. Turn on the hazard
warning indicators.
If necessary, add oil to bring the
level back to the full mark on the
dipstick (see page ).
Letthecarsitforaminute.Open
the hood and check the oil level
(see page ). Although oil level
and oil pressure are not directly
connected, an engine that is very
low on oil can lose pressure during
cornering and other driving
maneuvers.
Start the engine and watch the oil
pressure indicator. If the light
does not go out within ten seconds,
turn off the engine. There is a
mechanical problem that needs to
be repaired before you can
continue driving. (See
on page .)
The engine running generates the oil
pressure. When the Auto Idle Stop is
activated, the engine is stopped, the
oil pressure is dropped, and the low
oil pressure indicator does not light.
1.
2.
3.
4.
148
195
282
Low Oil Pressure Indicator
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Emergency
Towing
271
LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR
Running the engine with low oil
pressure can cause serious mechanical
damage almost immediately. Turn off
the engine as soon as you can safely get
the car stopped.
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−
This indicator should come on when
the ignition switch is ON (II), and go
out after the engine starts. If it
comes on brightly when the engine
is running, it indicates that the
charging system has stopped
charging the battery.
Immediately turn off all electrical
accessories: radio, heater, A/C, rear
defogger, cruise control, etc. Try not
to use other electrically-operated
controls such as the power windows.
Keep the engine running and take
extra care not to stall it. Starting the
engine will discharge the battery
rapidly.
By eliminating as much of the
electrical load as possible, you can
drive several miles (kilometers)
before the battery is too discharged
to keep the engine running. Drive to
a service station or garage where
you can get technical assistance.
If the Auto Idle Stop is active for an
extended period, the charging
system indicator may come on. If it
happens, start the engine.
The charging system indicator may
also come on if the Integrated Motor
Assist (IMA) battery charge drops
below a desired level and the engine
starts to recharge the battery.
This indicator may blink after you
start the car in the morning when
the temperature is below 20°F
( 30°C). It will stop blinking when
the IMA battery warms up.
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Charging System Indicator
272
CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR
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If you have recently refueled your
car, the cause of this indicator
coming on could be a loose or
missing fuel fill cap. Check the cap
and tighten it until it clicks several
times. Replace the fuel fill cap if it is
missing. Tightening the cap will not
make the indicator turn off
immediately; it takes one driving trip.
If the indicator remains on past one
driving trip, or the fuel cap was not
loose or missing, have the car
checked by the dealer as soon as
possible. Drive moderately until the
dealer has inspected the problem.
Avoid full-throttle acceleration and
driving at high speed.
Youshouldalsohavethedealer
inspect your car if this indicator
comes on repeatedly, even though it
may turn off as you continue driving.
This indicator should light when the
ignition switch is ON (II), and go out
after the engine starts. If it comes on
at any other time, it indicates one of
the engine’s emissions control
systems may have a problem. Even
though you may feel no difference in
your car’s performance, it can
reduce your fuel economy and cause
your car to put out excessive
emissions. Continued operation may
cause serious damage.
This indicator may also come on
along with the ‘‘D’’ indicator.
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Taking Care of the Unexpected
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
273
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP
If you keep driving with the
malfunction indicator lamp on, you can
damage your car’s emissions controls
and engine. Those repairs may not be
covered by your car’s warranties.
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Your car has certain ‘‘readiness
codes’’ that are part of the on-board
diagnostics for the emissions
systems. In some states, part of the
emissions testing is to make sure
these codes are set. If they are not
set, the test cannot be completed.
If your car’s battery has been
disconnected or gone dead, these
codes are erased. It takes several
days of driving under various
conditions to set the codes again.
If possible, do not take your car for a
state emissions test until the
readiness codes are set. Refer to
State Emissions Testing for more
information. (See page .)
To check if they are set, turn the
ignition ON (II), but do not start the
engine. The Malfunction Indicator
Lamp will come on for 20 seconds. If
it then goes off, the readiness codes
are set. If it blinks 5 times, the
readiness codes are not set.
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Malfunction Indicator Lamp
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Readiness Codes
274
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＊
＊
Slow down by shifting to a lower
gear, and pull to the side of the road
when it is safe. Because of the
longer distance needed to stop, it is
hazardous to drive the car. You
should have it towed, and repaired as
soon as possible. (See
on page .)
If you must drive the car a short
distance in this condition, drive
slowly and cautiously.
If it comes on at any other time, it
indicates a problem with the car’s
brake system. In most cases, the
problem is a low fluid level in the
brake fluid reservoir. Press lightly on
the brake pedal to see if it feels
normal. If it does, check the brake
fluid level the next time you stop at a
service station (see page ). If the
fluid level is low, take the car to your
dealer and have the brake system
inspected for leaks or worn brake
pads.
However, if the brake pedal does not
feel normal, you should take
immediate action. Because of the
brake system’s dual-circuit design, a
problem in one part of the system
will still give you braking at two
wheels. You will feel the brake pedal
go down much farther before the car
begins to slow down, and you will
have to press harder on the pedal.
The distance needed to stop will be
much longer.
The Brake System Indicator
normallycomesonwhenyouturn
the ignition switch ON (II). It is a
reminder to check the parking brake.
It comes on and stays lit if you do not
fully release the parking brake.
If the ABS indicator comes on with
this indicator, have the vehicle
inspected by your Honda dealer
immediately.
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282
On models equipped with ABS
Emergency
Towing
Brake System Indicator
Taking Care of the Unexpected
275
BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR
U.S. indicator shown
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All the electrical circuits in your car
have fuses to protect them from a
short circuit or overload. These
fuses are located in three fuse boxes.
The under-hood fuse box is located
in the engine compartment on the
driver’s side. To open it, push the
tabs as shown.
The secondary fuse box is located in
the engine compartment. To open it,
pushthetabsasshown.
Fuses
Taking Care of the Unexpected
276
TAB
TAB
UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX
SECONDARY FUSE BOX
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Check each of the large fuses in
the under-hood fuse box by
looking through the top at the wire
inside. Removing these fuses
requires a Phillips-head screw-
driver.
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
and , 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 a blown fuse is
not the cause. Replace any blown
fuses and check the component’s
operation.
Turn the ignition switch to LOCK
(0). Make sure the headlights and
all other accessories are off.
Remove the cover from the fuse
box.
The interior fuse box is underneath
the steering column. To open it, turn
the knobs as shown.
3.
1.
2.
281280
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Checking and Replacing Fuses
Fuses
Taking Care of the Unexpected
277
INTERIOR
FUSE
BLOWN
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If you cannot drive the car without
fixing the problem, and you do not
have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the
same rating or a lower rating from
one of the other circuits. Make sure
youcandowithoutthatcircuit
temporarily (such as the accessory
power socket or radio).
If you replace the blown fuse with a
spare fuse that has a lower rating, it
might blow out again. This does not
indicate anything wrong. Replace the
fuse with one of the correct rating as
soon as you can.
Look for a burned wire inside the
fuse. If it is burned, replace it with
oneofthesparefusesofthesame
rating or lower.
Check the smaller fuses in the
under-hood fuse boxes and all the
fuses in the interior fuse box by
pulling out each fuse with the fuse
puller provided in the under-hood
fuse box.
5.4.
Fuses
Taking Care of the Unexpected
278
FUSE PULLER
BLOWN
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CONTINUED
If the replacement fuse of the
same rating blows in a short time,
there is probably a serious
electrical problem in your car.
Leave the blown fuse in that
circuit and have your car checked
by a qualified mechanic.
When the audio system is disabled,
the clock setting in the audio system
will be canceled. You will need to
reset the clock according to the
instructions in the audio system
sectiononthisowner’smanual.
If the radio fuse is removed, the
audio system will disable itself. The
nexttimeyouturnontheradioyou
will see ‘‘ ’’ in the frequency
display. Use the Preset buttons to
enter the five-digit code (see page
).
6.
137
Fuses
Taking Care of the Unexpected
279
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-
ment fuse with the proper rating for the
circuit, install one with a lower rating.
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−
−
No. Circuits ProtectedAmps.
Circuits ProtectedAmps.No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Condenser Fan
IMA
Small Light
Cooling Fan
Hazard
FI ECU
Horn, Stop
ABS F/S
Back Up
ABS Motor
Rear Defroster
Heater Motor
Power Window
Option
Left Headlight
Door Lock
Right Headlight
EPS
Battery
Ignition 1
Spare Fuses
20 A
10 A
10 A
20 A
10 A
15 A
15 A
20 A
10 A
40 A
30 A
40 A
40 A
40 A
15 A
20 A
15 A
60 A
80 A
50 A
Cooling Fan20 A1
21 25
7.5A 30A
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Fuses
280
UNDER-HOOD AND SECONDARY FUSE BOXES
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＊
＊
＊
＊
＊
No. Amps.
No.
Circuits Protected
Amps. Circuits Protected
1
2
3
4
5
15 A
20 A
(10 A)
10 A
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
Ignition Coil IN
LAF Heater
(Daytime running lights )
FI-ECU
Not Used
7.5 A
7.5 A
15 A
7.5 A
7.5 A
(7.5 A)
10 A
10 A
(10 A)
7.5 A
15 A
15 A
7.5 A
20 A
7.5 A
20 A
20 A
20 A
20 A
7.5 A
Power Window Relay
Not Used
Accessory, Radio
Ignition Coil EX
Meter
ABS
(Daytime running lights )
SRS
Remote Control Mirrors
(SCTY )
IMA
Fuel Pump
Accessory Power Socket
Turn Signal Lights
Front Wiper
STS (Steering Switch)
Front Right Power Window
Front Left Power Window
Rear Left Power Window
Rear Right Power Window
Cooling Fan Relay
1 : On Canadian models
2 : Optional Security System
1
2
Fuses
Taking Care of the Unexpected
281
INTERIOR FUSE BOX
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The tow
truck uses two pivoting arms that go
under the tires (front or rear) and lift
them off the ground. The other two
tires remain on the ground.
If your car needs to be towed, call a
professional towing service or, if you
belong to one, an organization that
provides roadside assistance. Never
tow your car behind another vehicle
with just a rope or chain. It is very
dangerous.
There are three popular types of
professional towing equipment.
The operator
loads your car on the back of a truck.
Release the parking brake.
Shift the transmission to Neutral.
The tow
truck uses metal cables with hooks
on the ends. These hooks go around
parts of the frame or suspension and
the cables lift that end of the car off
the ground. Your car’s suspension
and body can be seriously damaged.
If your Honda cannot be transported
by flat-bed, it should be towed by
wheel-lift equipment with the front
wheels off the ground. If due to
damage, your car must be towed
with the front wheels on the ground,
do the following:
Release the parking brake.
Start the engine.
ShifttoD,thentoN.
Turn off the engine.
5-speed Manual Transmission
Automatic transmission (CVT)
Wheel-lift Equipment
Flat-bed Equipment
Sling-type Equipment
This is
an acceptable way to tow your
Honda.
This is the best way to transport
your Honda.
This method of towing is
unacceptable.
Emergency Towing
Taking Care of the Unexpected
282
Improper towing preparation will
damage the transmission. Follow the
above procedure exactly. If you cannot
shift the transmission or start the
engine (automatic transmission), your
car must be transported with the front
wheels off the ground.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If you decide to tow your car with all
four wheels on the ground, make
sure you use a properly-designed and
attached tow bar. Prepare the car for
towing as described above, and leave
the ignition switch in Accessory (I)
so the steering wheel does not lock.
Make sure the radio and any items
plugged into the accessory power
socket are turned off so they do not
rundownthebattery.
With the front wheels on the ground,
it is best to tow the car no farther
than 50 miles (80 km), and keep the
speedbelow35mph(55km/h).
If your car is equipped with a front
spoiler, remove it before towing so it
is not damaged.
Emergency Towing
Taking Care of the Unexpected
283
Trying to lift or tow your car by the
bumpers will cause serious damage.
The bumpers are not designed to
support the car’s weight.
The steering system can be damaged if
the steering wheel is locked. Leave the
ignition switch in Accessory (I), and
make sure the steering wheel turns
freely before you begin towing.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
284
Main Menu
Thediagramsinthissectiongive
you the dimensions and capacities of
your Honda, and the locations of the
identification numbers. It also
includes information you should
know about your vehicle’s tires and
emissions control systems.
................Identification Numbers . 286
................................Specifications . 288
DOT Tire Quality Grading
.............................(U.S.Cars) .290
Uniform Tire Quality
..................................Grading . 290
.................................Treadwear . 290
......................................Traction . 290
.............................Temperature . 291
.........................Oxygenated Fuels . 292
......Driving in Foreign Countries . 293
.......................Emissions Controls . 294
.....................The Clean Air Act . 294
Crankcase Emissions Control
....................................System . 294
Evaporative Emissions Control
....................................System . 294
Onboard Refueling Vapor
................................Recovery . 294
...Exhaust Emissions Controls . 295
....................PGM-FI System . 295
Ignition Timing Control
................................System . 295
Exhaust Gas Recirculation
...................(EGR) System . 295
Three Way Catalytic
...........................Converter . 295
....................Replacement Parts . 295
..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 296
..............State Emissions Testing . 297
Technical Information
Technical Information
285
Main Menu
Your car has several identifying
numbers located in various places.
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.
Identification Numbers
Technical Information
286
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
CERTIFICATION LABEL
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The Engine Number is stamped into
the engine block.
The Transmission Number is on a
label on top of the transmission.
The IMA Motor Number is stamped
on the motor housing.
Identification Numbers
Technical Information
287
ENGINE NUMBER
TRANSMISSION
NUMBER
IMA MOTOR
NUMBER
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Specifications
Technical Information
288
Dimensions
Weights
Capacities
Engine
174.8 in (4,440 mm)
67.5 in (1,715 mm)
56.3 in (1,430 mm)
103.1 in (2,620 mm)
57.9 in (1,470 mm)
57.9 in (1,470 mm)
13.2 US gal (50 , 11.0 Imp gal)
1.06 US gal (4.0 , 0.88 Imp gal)
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Track
Gross vehicle weight rating See the certification label attached
to the driver’s doorjamb.
1.08 US gal (4.1 , 0.90 Imp gal)
1.40 US gal (5.3 , 1.17 Imp gal)
1.37 US gal (5.2 , 1.14 Imp gal)
3.4 US qt (3.2 , 2.8 Imp qt)
3.2 US qt (3.0 , 2.6 Imp qt)
Fuel tank
Engine
coolant
Engine oil
Automatic
transmission
fluid (CVT)
4.0 US qt (3.8
, 3.3 Imp qt)
1.6 US qt (1.5
, 1.3 Imp qt)
1.7 US qt (1.6 , 1.4 Imp qt)
3.4 US qt (3.2
, 2.8 Imp qt)
5.7 US qt (5.4
, 4.8 Imp qt)
2.6 US qt (2.5
, 2.2 Imp qt)
4.8 US qt (4.5
, 4.0 Imp qt)
Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the
engine.
Reserve tank capacity:
Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.
0.11 US gal (0.4
, 0.09 Imp gal)
2.87 x 3.15 in (73.0 x 80.0 mm)
82 cu-in (1.339 cm
)
10.8
See spark plug maintenance
section page 215 .
Type
BorexStroke
Displacement
Compression ratio
Spark plugs
Water cooled 4-stroke SOHC VTEC
4-cylinder gasoline engine
Front
Rear
Approx.
1:
2:
Change
Manual
CVT
Total
Manual
CVT
Change
Without filter
Total
Change
Total
Change
Total
U.S. Cars
Canada Cars
Manual trans-
mission fluid
Including filter
Windshield
washer reservoir
1
2
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Specifications
Technical Information
289
Fuses
Alignment
Air Conditioning
Lights
Battery
Tires
HFC-134a (R-134a)
17.6 19.4 oz (500 550 g)
SP-10
12 V
12 V
60/55 W (HB2)
21/5 W
12 V 8 W
12 V 3 CP
12 V 21 W
12 V 3 CP
12 V 21 W
12 V 21/5 W
12 V 21 W
12 V 3 CP
Interior
Under-hood
Toe-in
Camber
Caster 2°20’
1°
0°12’
0.00 in (0.0 mm)
P185/70R14 87S
Refrigerant type
Charge quantity
Lubricant oil type
0.08 in (2.0 mm)
12 V
12 V
8W
5W
Headlights (HI/LO)
Front turn signal/side marker
lights
Front parking light
Rear turn signal lights
Stop/Taillights/Rear side
marker lights
Back-up lights
Taillights
High-mount brake light
License plate lights
Ceiling light
Spotlights
Trunk light
Capacity 12 V 35 AH/20 HR
See page 281 or the fuse label
attached to the inside of the fuse
box door under the steering
column.
See page 280 or the fuse box
cover.
T115/70D14 88M
30 psi (210 kPa , 2.1 kgf/cm )
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm
)
Size
Pressure
T125/70D15 95M
Front
Rear
Front
Rear
Front
Front/Rear
Spare
Front/Rear
Spare
1 : Without ABS
2 : With ABS
1
2
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The treadwear grade is a compara-
tive rating based on the wear rate of
the tire when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified government
test course. For example, a tire
graded 150 would wear one and one-
half (1 1/2) times as well on the
government course as a tire graded
100. The relative performance of
tires depends upon the actual condi-
tions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm
due to variations in driving habits,
service practices and differences in
road characteristics and climate.
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those
grades represent the tire’s ability to
stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on
specified government test surfaces
of asphalt and concrete. A tire
marked C may have poor traction
performance.
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.
The following explains these
gradings.
All passenger car tires must conform
to Federal Safety Requirements in
addition to these grades.
Quality grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall
between the tread shoulder and the
maximum section width. For
example:
Warning: The traction grade
assignedtothistireisbasedon
straight-ahead braking traction tests,
and does not include acceleration,
cornering, hydroplaning, or peak
traction characteristics.
DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars)
Technical Information
Treadwear Traction AA, A, B, C
Treadwear 200
Traction AA
Temperature A
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
290
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The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B, and C, representing the
tire’s resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified indoor
laboratory test wheel. Sustained high
temperature can cause the material
of the tire to degenerate and reduce
tire life, and excessive temperature
can lead to sudden tire failure. The
grade C corresponds to a level of
performance which all passenger car
tires must meet under the Federal
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No.
109. Grades B and A represent
higher levels of performance on the
laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.
Warning: The temperature grade for
this tire is established for a tire that
is properly inflated and not over-
loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-
tion, or excessive loading, either
separately or in combination, can
cause heat buildup and possible tire
failure.
DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars)
Technical Information
Temperature A,B,C
291
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Some conventional gasolines are
being blended with alcohol or an
ether compound. These gasolines
are collectively referred to as
oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air
standards, some areas of the United
States and Canada use oxygenated
fuels to help reduce emissions.
If you use an oxygenated fuel, be
sure it is unleaded and meets the
minimum octane rating requirement.
Before using an oxygenated fuel, try
to confirm the fuel’s contents. Some
states/provinces require this
informationtobepostedonthe
pump.
If you notice any undesirable
operating symptoms, try another
service station or switch to another
brand of gasoline.
Fuel system damage or performance
problems resulting from the use of
an oxygenated fuel containing more
than the percentages of oxygenates
given above are not covered under
warranty.
(ethyl or grain alcohol)
You may use gasoline containing up
to 10 percent ethanol by volume.
Gasoline containing ethanol may be
marketed under the name ‘‘Gasohol.’’
The following are the U.S. EPA and
Canadian CGSB approved
percentages of oxygenates:
(Methyl Tertiary Butyl
Ether)
You may use gasoline containing up
to 15 percent MTBE by volume.
(methyl or wood
alcohol)
Your vehicle was not designed to use
fuel that contains methanol.
Methanol can corrode metal parts in
the fuel system, and also damage
plastic and rubber components. This
damage would not be covered by
your warranties.
Technical Information
Oxygenated Fuels
ETHANOL
MTBE
METHANOL
292
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If you are planning to take your
Honda outside the U.S. or Canada,
contact the tourist bureaus in the
areas you will be traveling in to find
out about the availability of unleaded
gasoline with the proper octane
rating.
If unleaded gasoline is not available,
be aware that using leaded gasoline
in your Honda will affect perfor-
mance and fuel mileage, and damage
its emissions controls. It will no
longer comply with U.S. and
Canadian emissions regulations, and
will be illegal to operate in North
America. To bring your car back into
compliance will require the replace-
ment of several components, such as
theoxygensensorsandthethree
way catalytic converter. These re-
placements are not covered under
warranty.
Driving in Foreign Countries
Technical Information
293
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The United States Clean Air Act
sets standards for automobile
emissions. It also requires that
automobile manufacturers explain to
owners how their emissions controls
workandwhattodotomaintain
them. This section summarizes how
the emissions controls work.
Scheduled maintenance is on page
.
The burning of gasoline in your car’s
engine produces several byproducts.
Some of these are carbon monoxide
(CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and
hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline
evaporating from the tank also
produces hydrocarbons. Controlling
the production of NOx, CO, and HC
is important to the environment.
Under certain conditions of sunlight
and climate, NOx and HC react to
form photochemical ‘‘smog.’’ Carbon
monoxide does not contribute to
smog creation, but it is a poisonous
gas.
In Canada, Honda vehicles comply
with the Canadian emission
requirements, as specified in an
agreement with Environment
Canada, at the time they are
manufactured.
Your car has a Positive Crankcase
Ventilation System. This keeps
gasses that build up in the engine’s
crankcase from going into the
atmosphere. The Positive Crankcase
Ventilation valve routes them from
the crankcase back to the intake
manifold. They are then drawn into
the engine and burned.
As gasoline evaporates in the fuel
tank, an evaporative emissions
control 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.
The Onboard Refueling Vapor
Recovery (ORVR) system captures
the fuel vapors during refueling. The
vapors are adsorbed in a canister
filled with activated carbon. While
driving, the fuel vapors are drawn
into the engine and burned off.
186
The Clean Air Act
Crankcase Emissions Control
System
Evaporative Emissions Control
System
Onboard Refueling Vapor
Recovery
Technical Information
Emissions Controls
294
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The emissions control systems are
covered by warranties separate from
the rest of your car. Read your
warranty manual for more informa-
tion.
The exhaust emissions controls
include four systems: PGM-FI,
Ignition Timing Control, Exhaust
Gas Recirculation and Three Way
Catalytic Converter. These four
systems work together to control the
engine’s combustion and minimize
the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that
comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust
emissions control systems are
separate from the crankcase and
evaporative emissions control
systems.
The PGM-FI System uses sequential
multiport fuel injection.
It has three subsystems: Air Intake,
Engine Control, and Fuel Control.
The Engine Control Module (ECM)
uses various sensors to determine
how much air is going into the
engine. It then controls how much
fuel to inject under all operating
conditions.
This system constantly adjusts the
ignition timing, reducing the amount
of HC, CO and NOx produced.
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation
(EGR) system takes some of the
exhaust gas and routes it back into
the intake manifold. Adding exhaust
gas to the air/fuel mixture reduces
the amount of NOx produced when
the fuel is burned.
The three way catalytic converter is
in the exhaust system. Through
chemical reactions, it converts HC,
CO, and NOx in the engine’s exhaust
to carbon dioxide (CO ), dinitrogen
(N ), and water vapor.
The emissions control systems are
designed and certified to work to-
gether in reducing emissions to
levels that comply with the Clean Air
Act. To make sure the emissions
remain low, you should use only new
Honda replacement parts or their
equivalent for repairs. Using lower
qualitypartsmayincreasethe
emissions from your car.
2
2
Replacement PartsExhaust Emissions Controls
Emissions Controls
Technical Information
PGM-FI System
Ignition Timing Control System
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
System
Three Way Catalytic Converter
295
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The three way catalytic converter
contains precious metals that serve
as catalysts, promoting chemical
reactions to convert the exhaust
gasses without affecting the metals.
The catalytic converter is referred to
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
must operate at a high temperature
for the chemical reactions to take
place. It can set on fire any com-
bustible materials that come near it.
Park your car away from high grass,
dry leaves, or other flammables.
A defective three way catalytic
converter contributes to air pollution,
and can impair your engine’s per-
formance. Follow these guidelines to
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.
Keep the engine tuned-up.
Have your car diagnosed and
repaired if it is misfiring, back-
firing, stalling, or otherwise not
running properly.
Technical Information
Three Way Catalytic Converter
296
THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTERS
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CONTINUED
If you take your vehicle for a state
emissions test shortly after the
battery has been disconnected or
gone dead, it may not pass the test.
This is because of certain ‘‘readiness
codes’’ that must be set in the on-
board diagnostics for the emissions
systems. These codes are erased
when the battery is disconnected,
and set again only after several days
of driving under a variety of
conditions.
If the testing facility determines that
the readiness codes are not set, you
will be requested to return at a later
date to complete the test. If you must
get the vehicle re-tested within the
next two or three days, you can
condition the vehicle for re-testing
by doing the following.
Make sure the gas tank is nearly,
but not completely, full (around
3/4).
Make sure the vehicle has been
parked with the engine off for 8
hours or more.
Make sure the ambient
temperature is between 20° and
95°F.
Without touching the accelerator
pedal, start the engine and let it
idle for 20 seconds.
Keep the vehicle in Park
(automatic transmission) or
Neutral (manual transmission).
Increase the engine speed to 2,000
rpm and hold it there until the
temperature gauge rises to at least
1/4ofthescale(approximately3
minutes).
Technical Information
Testing of Readiness Codes
State Emissions Testing
297
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Then drive in city/suburban
traffic for at least 10 minutes.
When traffic conditions allow, let
the vehicle coast for several
seconds without using the
accelerator pedal or the brake
pedal.
If the testing facility determines the
readiness codes are still not set, see
your Honda dealer.
Select a nearby lightly traveled
major highway where you can
maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph
(80to97km/h)foratleast20
minutes. Drive on the highway in
D (CVT) or 5th (M/T). Do not use
thecruisecontrol.Whentraffic
allows, drive for 90 seconds
without moving the accelerator
pedal. (Vehicle speed may vary
slightly; this is okay.) If you cannot
do this for a continuous 90
seconds because of traffic
conditions, drive for at least 30
seconds, then repeat it two more
times (for a total of 90 seconds).
Technical Information
State Emissions Testing
298
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Customer Relations
................................Information . 300
....................Warranty Coverages . 301
Reporting Safety Defects
..........................(U.S. Vehicles) . 302
.....................Authorized Manuals . 303
Warranty and Customer Relations
Warranty and Customer Relations
299
Main Menu
When you call or write, please give
us this information:
Honda dealership personnel are
trained professionals. They should
be able to answer all your questions.
If you encounter a problem that your
dealership does not solve to your
satisfaction, please discuss it with
the dealership’s management. The
Service Manager or General
Manager can help. Almost all
problems are solved in this way.
Vehicle Identification Number
(see page )
Name and address of the dealer
who services your car
Date of purchase
Mileage on your car
Your name, address, and tele-
phone number
A detailed description of the
problem
Name of the dealer who sold the
car to you
If you are dissatisfied with the
decision made by the dealership’s
management, contact your Honda
Customer Relations Office.
U.S. Owners:
Canadian Owners:
In Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin
Islands:
286
Warranty and Customer Relations
Customer Relations Information
300
CUSTOMER RELATIONS
RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTÈLE
Honda Canada Inc.
715 Milner Avenue
Toronto, ON
M1B 2K8
Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9
Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909
Toronto (416) 287-4776
Bella International
P.O. Box 190816
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00919-0816
Tel: (787) 250-4318
American Honda Motor Co.
Honda Automobile Customer Service
Mail Stop 500-2N-7D
1919 Torrance Boulevard
Torrance, California 90501-2746
Tel: (800) 999-1009
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Your new Honda is covered by these
warranties:
provides prorated
coverage for a replacement battery
purchased from a Honda dealer.
a seat
belt that fails to function properly is
coveredfortheusefullifeofthe
vehicle.
covers all genuine
Honda replacement parts against
defects in materials and workman-
ship.
Genuine Honda Accessories are
covered under this warranty. Time
and mileage limits depend on the
type of accessory and other factors.
Please read your warranty manual
for details.
all exterior body panels are
covered for rust-through from the
inside for the specified time period
with no mileage limit.
provides
coverageforaslongasthepur-
chaser of the muffler owns the car.
covers your new vehicle, except for
the battery, emissions control
systems and accessories, against
defects in materials and
workmanship.
this warranty gives up
to 100 percent credit toward a
replacement battery.
these two
warranties cover your vehicle’s emis-
sions control systems. Time, mileage,
and coverage are conditional. Please
read the warranty manual for exact
information.
Restrictions and exclusions apply to
all these warranties. Please read the
2003 Honda Warranty Information
booklet that came with your car for
precise information on warranty
coverages. Your Honda’s original
tires are covered by their
manufacturer. Tire warranty infor-
mation is in a separate booklet.
Please refer to the 2003 Warranty
Manual that came with your car.
Replacement Battery Limited
Warranty
Seat Belt Limited Warranty
Replacement Parts Limited
Warranty
Accessory Limited Warranty
Rust Perforation Limited Warranty Replacement Muffler Lifetime
Limited Warranty
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
Original Equipment Battery Limited
Warranty
Emissions Control Systems Defects
Warranty and Emissions
Performance Warranty
U.S. Owners
Canadian Owners
Warranty Coverages
Warranty and Customer Relations
301
Main Menu
Table of Contents
To contact NHTSA, you may either
call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free
at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
Washington D.C. area) or write to:
NHTSA, U.S. Department of
Transportation, Washington,
D.C. 20590. You can also obtain
other information about motor
vehicle safety from the Hotline.
If you believe that your vehicle has a
defect which could cause a crash or
could cause injury or death, you
should immediately inform the
National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) in addition
to notifying American Honda Motor
Co., Inc.
If NHTSA receives similar com-
plaints, it may open an investigation,
and if it finds that a safety defect
exists in a group of vehicles, it may
order a recall and remedy campaign.
However, NHTSA cannot become
involved in individual problems
between you, your dealer, or
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)
Warranty and Customer Relations
302
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The following publications covering the operation and
servicing of your vehicle can be obtained from Helm
Incorporated, either by filling out the attached form or,
for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone number
on the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below,
contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit,
Michigan 48207, or call 1-800-782-4356.
Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should
contact their authorized Honda dealer.
Authorized Manuals
Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals
(U.S. only)
303
ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-782-4356
OR
(NOTE: For Credit Card Holder Orders Only)
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Price
Each
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Publication
Form Number
61S5B00
61S5B00EL
61S5A30
31S5B600
HON-R
Form Description
2003 Honda Civic Hybrid
Service Manual
2003 Honda Civic Hybrid
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual
2001-2003 Honda Civic
Body Repair Manual
2003 Honda Civic Hybrid
Owner’s Manual
Order Form for Previous Years-
Indicate Year and Model Desired
PUBLICATION NUMBER
VEHICLE MODEL
Name Year
Qty
Price
Each
Total
Price
GRAND TOTAL
HANDLING CHARGE
Mich. Purchases
Add 6% Sales Tax
TOTAL MATERIAL
$6.00
Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring
obligation.
Monday-Friday 8:00 A.M. 6:00 P.M. EST
By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can
pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to
Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.
Prices are subject to change without
notice and without incurring obligation.
Orders are mailed within 10 days. Please
allow adequate time for delivery.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
−
−
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Ｔ
Ｏ
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This manual describes the procedures involved in the
replacement of damaged body parts.
This manual covers maintenance and recommended
procedures for repair to engine and chassis components.
It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simple
enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under-
stand.
This manual complements the Service Manual by
providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each
electrical circuit in your vehicle.
Authorized Manuals
Service Manual:
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:
Body Repair Manual:
304
NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name,
and also the name of the person to whose attention the shipment should
be sent. For purchases outside U.S.A. please write to the address shown
below for a quotation.
P.O. BOX 07280·DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207·1-800-782-4356
Customer Name
Attention
Apartment Number
State & Zip Code
City
Daytime Telephone Number
Check or money order enclosed payable to Helm Inc U.S. funds only.
Do not send cash
Master
Card
VISA Check here if your billing address is different
from the shipping address shown above.
Account Number
Expiration: Mo. Yr.
CUSTOMER SIGNATURE
DATE
Street Address No P.O. Box Number
()
These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14
days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.
Main Menu
Table of Contents
CONTINUED
...Accessories and Modifications . 152
................................Accessories . 152
.Additional Safety Precautions . 153
............................Modifications . 153
ACCESSORY (Ignition Key
.......................................Position) . 87
.............Accessory Power Socket . 103
....................Additives, Engine Oil . 196
.............................Airbag (SRS) . 10, 48
.....................Air Cleaner Element . 211
..............Air Conditioning System . 108
..............................Maintenance . 221
.........................................Usage . 110
.......................Air Outlets (Vents) . 108
.......................Air Pressure, Tires . 225
..................High Speed Driving . 226
.........................Normal Driving . 226
.......................Alcohol in Gasoline . 292
......................................Antifreeze . 199
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
...............................Indicator . 62, 177
...................................Operation . 175
..............Anti-theft, Audio System . 137
Anti-theft Steering Column
..............................................Lock . 86
..........................Appearance Care . 245
................................Audio System . 118
........................Auto Idle Stop . 163, 171
.............................Indicator . 164, 172
...Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners . 46
.............Automatic Speed Control . 139
.Automatic Transmission (CVT) . 166
..........................Capacity, Fluid . 288
...............Checking Fluid Level . 206
.......................................Shifting . 167
.Shift Lever Position Indicator . 166
................Shift Lever Positions . 167
....................Shift Lock Release . 170
Battery
Charging System
...........................Indicator . 62, 272
............................Jump Starting . 265
.................................Level Gauge . 72
..............................Maintenance . 216
............................Specifications . 289
..............................Before Driving . 143
....................................Belts,Seat .8,45
...........................Beverage Holder . 102
.................................Body Repairs . 253
Brakes
...........Anti-lock System (ABS) . 175
.............Break-in, New Linings . 144
....................Bulb Replacement . 237
...........................................Fluid . 209
.......................................Parking . 100
.................System Indicator . 62, 275
........................Wear Indicators . 174
.............................Braking System . 174
........................Break-in, New Car . 144
..Brightness Control, Instruments . 77
........................Brights, Headlights . 75
Index
A
B
I
Main Menu
＊
Bulb Replacement
..........................Back-up Lights . 238
..............................Brake Lights . 237
..............................Ceiling Light . 241
................Front Parking Lights . 235
........Front Side Marker Lights . 235
.................................Headlights . 234
.........High-mount Brake Light . 238
.................License Plate Lights . 239
.........Rear Side Marker Lights . 237
............................Specifications . 289
...................................Spotlights . 242
...............................Trunk Light . 240
....................Turn Signal Lights . 235
..............................Bulbs, Halogen . 234
............................Capacities Chart . 288
.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 54
.............................Carrying Cargo . 154
Cassette Player
............................................Care . 136
...................................Operation . 133
..............CAUTION, Explanation of . ii
...................................CD Changer . 129
.......................................CD Player . 127
..................................Ceiling Light . 104
........................Certification Label . 286
............................................Chains . 231
....................Changing a Flat Tire . 257
............Changing Engine Coolant . 201
Changing Oil
........................................How to . 197
......................................When to . 186
....................Charge/Assist Gauge . 73
...Charging System Indicator . 62, 272
............Checklist, Before Driving . 160
.....................................Child Safety . 22
Child Seats
......LATCH Anchorage System . 43
...........................Lower Anchors . 43
..........Tether Anchorage Points . 42
..................Childproof Door Locks . 92
....................Cleaner Element, Air . 211
Cleaning
....................Aluminum Wheels . 248
......................................Exterior . 246
.......................................Interior . 249
...................................Seat Belts . 250
...........................................Vinyl . 250
....................................Windows . 251
.........................Clock, Setting the . 123
...................................Clutch Fluid . 210
........................CO in the Exhaust . 294
............Cold Weather, Starting in . 161
..............................Compact Spare . 256
...............Consumer Information . 300
Continuously Variable
................Transmission (CVT) . 166
.............Controls, Instruments and . 57
Coolant
........................................Adding . 199
....................................Checking . 149
.........................Proper Solution . 199
...................................Replacing . 201
...................Temperature Gauge . 72
....................Corrosion Protection . 252
Crankcase Emissions Control
........................................System . 294
............Cruise Control Operation . 139
.....................Current Fuel Mileage . 70
..........Customer Relations Office . 300
................DANGER, Explanation of . ii
...................................Dashboard . 2, 58
Index
C
D
II
Main Menu
CONTINUED
................Daytime Running Lights . 76
............Defects, Reporting Safety . 302
........................Defog and Defrost . 116
................Defogger, Rear Window . 81
..............Defrosting the Windows . 116
....................................Dimensions . 288
...............Dimming the Headlights . 75
Dipstick
Automatic Transmission
.....................................(CVT) . 206
..................................Engine Oil . 148
..........................Directional Signals . 78
........Disc Brake Wear Indicators . 174
.....................Disposal of Used Oil . 198
Doors
..............Locking and Unlocking . 87
......................Power Door Locks . 87
..........DOT Tire Quality Grading . 290
Downshifting, 5-speed Manual
.............................Transmission . 162
.......................................Drive Belt . 224
...........Driver and Passenger Safety . 5
...........................................Driving . 159
....................................Economy . 150
.........................In Bad Weather . 178
................In Foreign Countries . 293
..................Dust and Pollen Filter . 222
............................Fabric, Cleaning . 250
...................................Fan, Interior . 113
Features, Comfort and
..............................Convenience . 107
....................Filling the Fuel Tank . 145
Filters
................................Air Cleaner . 211
.........................Dust and Pollen . 222
...............................................Oil . 197
..............................Economy, Fuel . 150
............Emergencies on the Road . 255
.............Battery, Jump Starting . 265
...........Brake System Indicator . 275
................Changing a Flat Tire . 257
.....Charging System Indicator . 272
..................Checking the Fuses . 277
.....Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 271
...Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 273
..................Overheated Engine . 268
.........................Emergency Brake . 100
......................Emergency Flashers . 80
......................Emergency Towing . 282
............Emergency Trunk Opener . 93
.......................Emissions Controls . 294
.............Emissions Testing, State . 297
Engine
....Coolant Temperature Gauge . 71
...................................Drive Belt . 224
......Engine Speed Limiter . 165, 169
Malfunction Indicator
................................Lamp . 62, 273
........Oil Pressure Indicator . 62, 271
..............Oil, What Kind to Use . 195
...............................Overheating . 268
............................Specifications . 288
.......................................Starting . 161
......................Ethanol in Gasoline . 292
.Evaporative Emissions Controls . 294
...............................Exhaust Fumes . 54
Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat
........................................Belts by . 20
..................Exterior, Cleaning the . 246
Index
E
F
III
Main Menu
.............Halogen Headlight Bulbs . 234
..............Hazard Warning Flashers . 80
Headlights
........................................Aiming . 234
............Daytime Running Lights . 76
..................High Beam Indicator . 64
........................Reminder Beeper . 75
........Replacing Halogen Bulbs . 234
...................................Turning on . 75
..............................Head Restraints . 96
.....................Heating and Cooling . 108
.............High Altitude, Starting at . 161
.................High-Low Beam Switch . 75
..............High-mount Brake Light . 238
....................................Hood Latch . 212
.......................Hood, Opening the . 146
..................................................Horn . 74
...........................Hydraulic Clutch . 210
.................................Hydroplaning . 179
...Identification Number, Vehicle . 286
Ignition
..............................................Keys . 83
...........................................Switch . 86
............Timing Control System . 295
5-speed Manual Transmission
...............Checking Fluid Level . 208
................................Shifting the . 162
.............Flashers, Hazard Warning . 80
...................Flat Tire, Changing a . 257
Fluids
Automatic Transmission
.....................................(CVT) . 206
..........................................Brake . 209
.........................................Clutch . 210
..............Manual Transmission . 208
..................Windshield Washer . 205
FM Stereo Radio
...................................Reception . 125
.....Foreign Countries, Driving in . 293
..........................Four-way Flashers . 80
............................Front Airbags . 10, 48
.................................................Fuel . 144
......................Fill Door and Cap . 145
...........................................Gauge . 71
................Octane Requirement . 144
...............................Oxygenated . 292
........................Reserve Indicator . 65
........................Tank, Filling the . 145
.....................Fuses, Checking the . 276
...............Gas Mileage, Improving . 150
..........................................Gasohol . 292
.........................................Gasoline . 144
...............Fuel Reserve Indicator . 65
...........................................Gauge . 71
................Octane Requirement . 144
........................Tank, Filling the . 145
................Gas Station Procedures . 145
Gauges
...Engine Coolant Temperature . 71
...............................................Fuel . 71
...............................Speedometer . 69
.................................Tachometer . 69
Gearshift Lever Positions
Automatic Transmission
.....................................(CVT) . 167
5-speed Manual
.........................Transmission . 162
..............................Glass Cleaning . 251
......................................Glove Box . 101
Index
G
H
I
IV
Main Menu
CONTINUED
.........Important Safety Precautions . 6
Indicators, Instrument
.............................................Panel . 59
...............................Infant Restraint . 31
Infant Seats
......LATCH Anchorage System . 43
...........................Lower Anchors . 43
..........Tether Anchorage Points . 42
...................Inflation, Proper Tire . 225
..................High Speed Driving . 226
.........................Normal Driving . 226
...................................Inside Mirror . 99
.............................Inspection, Tire . 227
........................Instrument Panel . 2, 58
........Instrument Panel Brightness . 77
...........................Interior Cleaning . 249
...............................Interior Lights . 104
........................................Introduction . i
........................Jacking up the Car . 259
.......................................Jack, Tire . 258
................................Jump Starting . 265
..................................................Keys . 83
.......................Label, Certification . 286
.................Lane Change, Signaling . 78
..................Lap/Shoulder Belts . 16, 45
...........LATCH Anchorage System . 43
Lights
....................Bulb Replacement . 234
.......................................Indicator . 59
.........................................Parking . 75
..................................Turn Signal . 78
.....................................Load Limit . 155
......LOCK (Ignition Key Position) . 86
Locks
.......Anti-theft Steering Column . 86
............................Fuel Fill Door . 145
.................................Power Door . 87
...........................................Trunk . 92
........................Low Coolant Level . 149
.........................Low Fuel Indicator . 65
................................Lower Anchors . 43
...Lower Gear, Downshifting to a . 165
...Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 62, 271
...Lubricant Specifications Chart . 288
.........................................Luggage . 154
..................................Maintenance . 181
...Owner Maintenance Checks . 193
.................................Record . 191-192
......................Required Indicator . 66
..........................................Safety . 182
.............................Schedule . 184-190
.Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 62, 273
...................Manual Transmission . 162
........Manual Transmission Fluid . 208
...............................Meters, Gauges . 67
...................Methanol in Gasoline . 292
..........................Mirrors, Adjusting . 99
...................Neutral Gear Position . 168
..................New Vehicle Break-in . 144
...................NOTICE, Explanation of . i
...............Numbers, Identification . 286
Index
LM
J
K
N
V
Main Menu
..............................Paint Touch-up . 248
..............Panel Brightness Control . 77
........................Park Gear Position . 167
...........................................Parking . 173
...............................Parking Brake . 100
Parking Brake and Brake System
...............................Indicator . 62, 275
.................................Parking Lights . 75
..Parking Over Things that Burn . 296
.............................PGM-FI System . 295
..................Polishing and Waxing . 247
............Pre-Drive Safety Checklist . 12
.........Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts . 20
............................Protecting Adults . 13
...Additional Safety Precautions . 20
.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 20
........................Protecting Children . 22
.......................Protecting Infants . 31
.......Protecting Larger Children . 38
.........Protecting Small Children . 35
Using Child Seats with
.....................................Tethers . 42
.............................Using LATCH . 43
...................Radiator Overheating . 268
Radio/CD/Cassette
............................Sound System . 118
...................Readiness Codes . 274, 297
Rear Lights, Bulb
......................Replacement . 237, 238
............................Rear View Mirror . 99
.................Rear Window Defogger . 81
...............Reclining the Seat Backs . 94
.............................Reminder Lights . 59
.......................Remote Transmitter . 89
Replacement Information
.................Air Cleaner Element . 211
..............Dust and Pollen Filter . 222
..........................Engine Coolant . 201
................Engine Oil and Filter . 197
..........................................Fuses . 277
................................Light Bulbs . 234
....................................Schedule . 184
................................Spark Plugs . 213
...........................................Tires . 229
.............................Wiper Blades . 219
Replacing Seat Belts After a
............................................Crash . 47
Reserve Tank, Engine
...............................Coolant . 149, 199
...............................Restraint, Child . 22
..................Reverse Gear Position . 168
................................Roof Antenna . 247
...Octane Requirement, Gasoline . 144
.........................................Odometer . 69
...............................Odometer, Trip . 69
Oil
........................Change, How to . 197
......................Change, When to . 186
......................Checking Engine . 148
..............Pressure Indicator . 62, 271
Selecting Proper Viscosity
......................................Chart . 196
...........ON (Ignition Key Position) . 87
Onboard Refueling Vapor
....................................Recovery . 294
..Operation in Foreign Countries . 293
..............................Outside Mirrors . 99
....................Overheating, Engine . 268
.......Owner Maintenance Checks . 193
.........................Oxygenated Fuels . 292
Index
PR
O
VI
Main Menu
＊
＊
CONTINUED
................................Rotation, Tire . 228
..................................Safety Belts . 8, 45
.........Safety Defects, Reporting . 302
.................................Safety Features . 7
.........................................Airbags . 10
..................................Door Locks . 11
..........................Head Restraints . 11
.......................................Seat Belts . 8
.....................Seats & Seat-Backs . 11
.............Safety Labels, Location of . 55
...............................Safety Messages . ii
.....................................Seat Belts . 8, 45
...............Additional Information . 45
Automatic Seat Belt
...............................Tensioners . 46
.....................................Cleaning . 250
................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 16, 45
................................Maintenance . 47
......Reminder Light and Beeper . 61
...................System Components . 45
...............Use During Pregnancy . 20
...Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt . 16
........................Seats, Adjusting the . 94
...............................Serial Number . 286
...........................Service Intervals . 184
...........................Service Manual . 303
.........Service Station Procedures . 145
..........................Setting the Clock . 123
.....Shift Lever Position Indicator . 166
........................Shift Lock Release . 170
..Shift Up/Shift Down Indicators . 165
..............................Side Airbags . 10, 50
....................Cutoff Indicator . 52, 61
Side Marker Lights, Bulb
......................Replacement . 235, 237
...............................Signaling Turns . 78
.....................................Snow Tires . 230
...................Solvent-type Cleaners . 246
................................Sound System . 118
Spare Tire
......................................Inflating . 256
............................Specifications . 289
................Spark Plugs, Replacing . 213
....................Specifications Charts . 288
................................Speed Control . 139
...................................Speedometer . 69
.......................................Spotlights . 104
..........SRS, Additional Information . 48
...Additional Safety Precautions . 53
.............................Airbag Service . 53
How the Side Airbag Cutoff
...........Indicator Light Works . 52
How the SRS Indicator
.......................................Works . 51
How Your Front Airbags
.........................................Work . 48
...How Your Side Airbags Work . 50
........................SRS Components . 48
.............................SRS Indicator . 51, 61
....START (Ignition Key Position) . 87
..............State Emissions Testing . 297
.......................Starting the Engine . 161
In Cold Weather at High
..................................Altitude . 161
................With a Dead Battery . 265
........Steam Coming from Engine . 268
Steering Wheel
..................................Adjustment . 82
.............Anti-theft Column Lock . 86
...................Stereo Sound System . 118
...........................Storing Your Car . 243
Index
S
VII
Main Menu
Supplemental Restraint
................................System . 10, 48
......................................Servicing . 53
.........................SRS Indicator . 51, 61
...................System Components . 48
..................................Synthetic Oil . 196
.....................Underside, Cleaning . 252
Unexpected, Taking Care
..........................................of the . 255
....Uniform Tire Quality Grading . 290
........................Unleaded Gasoline . 144
.....................Upholstery Cleaning . 249
.......Used Oil, How to Dispose of . 198
.................Vehicle Capacity Load . 155
......................Vehicle Dimensions . 288
....Vehicle Identification Number . 286
.....................................Tachometer . 69
Taillights, Changing
..................................Bulbs . 237, 238
.Taking Care of the Unexpected . 255
....................................Tape Player . 133
Technical Descriptions
......DOT Tire Quality Grading . 290
.....Emissions Control Systems . 294
.....................Oxygenated Fuels . 292
Three Way Catalytic
...............................Converter . 296
.......................Temperature Gauge . 71
..............Tether Anchorage Points . 42
............................Theft Protection . 137
..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 296
..........................Time, Setting the . 123
....................................Tire Chains . 231
.........Tire, How to Change a Flat . 257
...............................................Tires . 225
..............................Air Pressure . 225
.........................Checking Wear . 227
..........................Compact Spare . 256
......DOT Tire Quality Grading . 290
......................................Inflation . 225
..................................Inspection . 227
..............................Maintenance . 227
...................................Replacing . 229
......................................Rotating . 228
...........................................Snow . 230
............................Specifications . 289
................................Tire Chains . 231
...................Tools, Tire Changing . 258
Towing
.....................................A Trailer . 179
..................Emergency Towing . 282
...........................Traction Devices . 231
Transmission
Checking Fluid Level,
..................Automatic (CVT) . 206
Checking Fluid Level,
...................................Manual . 208
..................Fluid Selection . 207, 208
..............Identification Number . 287
Shifting the Automatic
.....................................(CVT) . 167
..................Shifting the Manual . 165
.....................................Treadwear . 290
.......................................Trip Meter . 69
....................................Trip Mileage . 70
................................................Trunk . 92
........................................Opening . 92
...................Open Monitor Light . 65
....................................Turn Signals . 78
Index
U
V
T
VIII
Main Menu
＊
＊
.............................Vehicle Storage . 243
.....................................Ventilation . 109
.................................................VIN . 286
...............................Vinyl Cleaning . 250
..................................Viscosity, Oil . 196
.............WARNING, Explanation of . ii
.........Warning Labels, Location of . 55
..................Warranty Coverages . 301
Washer, Windshield
........Checking the Fluid Level . 205
.......................................Indicator . 65
.....................................Operation . 80
.........................................Washing . 246
..................Waxing and Polishing . 247
Wheels
...............Adjusting the Steering . 82
............Alignment and Balance . 227
....................Aluminum Wheels . 248
..........................Compact Spare . 256
......................................Wrench . 258
Windows
.....................................Cleaning . 251
..................Operating the Power . 97
...........................Rear, Defogger . 81
Windshield
.......................................Cleaning . 78
...................................Defroster . 116
.......................................Washers . 80
Wipers, Windshield
.......................Changing Blades . 219
.....................................Operation . 78
....................................Worn Tires . 227
.....Wrecker, Emergency Towing . 282
: U.S. and Canada only
Index
W
IX
Main Menu
Service Information Summary
Gasoline:
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Recommended Engine Oil:
Tire Pressure (measured cold):
Brake Fluid:Automatic Transmission Fluid
(CVT):
5-speed Manual Transmission
Fluid:
Unleaded gasoline, pump octane
number of 86 or higher.
30 psi (210 kPa , 2.1 kgf/cm
)
Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid
DOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 or
DOT 4 brake fluid as a temporary
replacement (see page ).
Front/Rear:
Spare Tire:
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm
)Oil change capacity (including
filter):
API Premium grade 0W-20
detergent oil (see page ).
Use Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid) only.
3.4 US qt (3.2
, 2.8 Imp qt)
13.2 US gal (50
, 11.0 Imp gal)
3.4 US qt (3.2
, 2.8 Imp qt)
Capacity:
1.6 US qt (1.5
, 1.3 Imp qt)
Capacity (including differential):
Honda Manual Transmission
Fluid preferred, or an SAE 10W-30
or 10W-40 motor oil as a
temporary replacement (see page
).
195
209
208
Main Menu
