2000 S2000 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
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety................................................................................................................ .ii
Your Vehicle at a Glance.................................................................................................................... .2
Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................5
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls................................................................................................................ .41
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features ............................................................................................... 85
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving..................................................................................................................................115
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving ............................................................................................................................................. .129
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................143
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take yo ur vehicle to the dealer.
Appearance Care............................................................................................................................. .203
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected......................................................................................................211
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, a nd how to handle them.
Technical Information.................................................................................................................... .241
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................253
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................259
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.
Owner's Identification Form
Owner's Identification OWNER ------------------------------------------------- ADDRESS ----------------~===---------------~-STREET CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/ POSTAL CODE V.I. N. ______________________ _ DELIVERY DATE This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of the vehicle, and should remain with the vehicle when it is sold. This Owner's Manual covers all models of the S2000. You may find descriptions of equipment and features that are not on your particular model. The information and specifications included in this publication were in --------~----------~----------~------- (Date sold to original retail purchaser) effect at the time of approval for printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. DEALER NAME DEALER NO. reserves the right, however, to ---------------------- discontinue or change specifications ADDRESS or design at any timewithout notice CITY STREET and without incurring any obligation whatsoever. STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/ POSTAL CODE OWNER'S SIGNATURE ____________________________ __ DEALER'S SIGNATURE ____________________________ _
Congratulations on your selection of the 2000 Honda S2000. We are certain you will be pleased with your purchase of one of the most sophisticated and technologically-advanced sports cars in the world. 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. Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty booklet thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights and responsibilities. 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. Introduction As you read this manual, you will find information that is preceded by a [NOTICE _ _] symbol. This information is intended to help you avoid damage to your S2000, other property, or the environment.
A Few Words About Safety Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And operating this car safely is an important responsibility. 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. 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. i i You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms, including: • Safety Labels- on the car. • Safety Messages - preceded by a safety alert symbol A and one of three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION. These signal words mean: A DANGER l A CAUTION 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. • Safety Headings - such as Important Safety Reminders or Important Safety Precautions. • Safety Section- such as Driver and Passenger Safety. • Instructions - how to use this car correctly and safely. This entire book is filled with important safety information - please read it carefully.
Your Car at a Glance 2
' '~'' :: '' HEADLIGHtS/JUAN SIGNALS. .... . .. (P751) . HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.118) CRl.JISECONTROLMASTER SWITCH (P.55) HORN Your Car at a Glance WINDSHIELD WIPERS/ WASHERS (P.53) 3
4
This section gives you important information about how to protect yourself and your passenger. It shows you how to use seat belts properly. It explains your Supple mental Restraint System. And it tells you how to properly restrain children in your car. Important Safety Precautions .......... 6 Your Car's Safety Features .............. 7 Seat Belts ........................................ 8 Airbags ............................................ 9 Seats & Seat-Backs ...................... 10 Head Restraints ........................... 10 Door Locks ................................... 10 Pre-Drive Safety Checklist ......... 11 Protecting Adults ............................. 12
Important Safety Precautions You'll find many safety recommendations throughout this section, and throughout this manual. The recommendations on this page are the ones we consider to be the most important. Always WearY our Seat Belt 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 passenger always wear your seat belts, and wear them properly. (See page 15 ) . Your Car is Not Recommended for Child Passengers Since all children are safest in the back seat of a car, and your car does not have a back seat, we recommend that you do not carry a child passenger. Due to the passenger's 6 Driver and Passenger Safety airbag hazard, you should never carry an infant in a rear-facing child seat in this car. If a small child who must be restrained in a forward facing child seat, or a larger child, must ride in this car, be sure to follow all instructions and safety warnings in this manual. (See pages 26 and 29.) Be Aware of Airbag Hazards 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 7 .) Don't Drink and Drive 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. Control Your Speed 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. Keep Your Car in Safe Condition 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 146 .)
Your Car's Safety Features Your car is equipped with many features that work together to protect you and your passenger during a crash. Some safety features do not require any action on your part. 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 seat belts in the event of a crash. These safety features are designed to reduce the severity of injuries in a crash. However, you and your passenger can't take full advantage of these safety features unless you remain sitting in a proper position and always wear your seat belts properly. In fact, some safety features can contribute to injuries if they are not used properly. Driver and Passenger Safety 7
Your Car's Safety Features Seat Belts For your safety, and the safety of your passenger, your car is equipped with seat belts in both seating positions. ITl Your seat belt system also L:::D:..J includes a light on the instrument panel to remind you and your passenger to fasten your seat belts. Why Wear Seat Belts Seat belts have proven to be the single most effective safety device. Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even though your car has airbags. 8 Driver and Passenger Safety In addition, most states and all Canadian provinces require you to wear seat belts. 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 passenger always wear seat belts and wear them properly. When properly worn, seat belts: • Keep you connected to the vehicle so you can take advantage of the vehicle's built-in safety features. • Help protect you in almost every type of crash, including side and rear impacts and rollovers. (Your air bag can only be helpful in a moderate to severe frontal collision.) • 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 air bag, and allows you to get the best advantage from the airbag. Of course, seat belts cannot completely protect you in every crash. But in most cases, seat belts can reduce your risk of serious injury. What you should do: Always wear your seat belt, and make sure you wear it properly.
Airbags Your car has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with frontal airbags to help protect the driver and a passenger. ~ This system also includes ~ an indicator light on the instrument panel to alert you to a possible problem with the system. The most important things you need to know about your airbags are: • Airbags do not replace seat belts. The seat belts are the occupants' primary protection in all types of collisions. Airbags supplement seat belts by providing extra protection for occupants' heads and chests. • Airbags offer no protection in side impacts, rear impacts, rollovers, or minor collisions. Air bags are designed to deploy only during a moderate to severe frontal collision. Your Car's Safety Features • Airbags can pose serious hazards. To do their job, airbags must inflate with tremendous force and speed. So while airbags save lives, they can cause serious injuries to adults and larger children who are not wearing seat belts, are not wearing them properly, are sitting too close to the airbag, or are not sitting in a proper position. Infants and small children are at an even greater risk of injury or death. What you should do: Always wear your seat belt properly, and sit upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel or dashboard. Driver and Passenger Safety 9
Your Car's Safety Features Seats & Seat-Backs 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. 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 the inside of the car, or by an 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. 10 Driver and Passenger Safety What you should do: Move the seats as far back as possible, and keep adjustable seat-backs in an upright position whenever the car is moving. Head Restraints Head restraints can help protect you from whiplash and other injuries. Door Locks Keeping your doors locked reduces the chance of being thrown out of 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.
Pre-Drive Safety Checklist To make sure you and your passenger get the maximum protection from your car's safety features, check the following each time before you drive away: • You and any adult passenger, or a larger child who has outgrown child seats, are wearing your seat belts and wearing them properly (see page 15 ) . • A small child riding in a forward facing child seat is properly restrained (see page 26). • Occupants are sitting upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel and dashboard (see page 12 ) . • Seat-backs are upright (see page 13 ). • Both doors are closed and locked (see page 12 ). • All cargo is properly stored or secured (see page 124). 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 air bags deploy. Your Car's Safety Features Driver and Passenger Safety 11
Protecting Adults Introduction The following pages provide instructions on how to properly protect adult occupants. These instructions also apply to a child whom you have decided is large enough and mature enough to ride as a passenger. (See page 29 for important additional guidelines on how to properly protect larger children.)
To reduce the chance of injury, wear your seat belt properly, sit upright with your back against the seat, and move the seat as far back as possible from the steering wheel while still maintaining full control of the car. Also make sure your passenger moves the seat as far to the rear as possible. Sitting too close to an airbag can result in serious injury or death it the airbags inflate. Always sit as tar back from the airbags as possible. 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. Once your seat is adjusted correctly, rock it back and forth to make sure the seat is locked in position. See page 68 for how to adjust the seats. 3.Adjust the Seat-Backs 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 airbag inflates. Protecting Adults A 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 airbag inflates. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety 13
Protecting Adults 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. 14 Driver and Passenger Safety 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. See page 68 for how to adjust seat backs.
4.Fasten and Position the Seat Belts 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. 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 Protecting Adults spreads the forces of a crash over the strongest bones in your upper body. Improperly positioning the seat belts can cause serious injury or death in a crash. Make sure all seat belts are properly positioned before driving. Never place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This could cause very serious injuries in a crash. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety 15
Protecting Adults If a seat belt does not seem to work as it should, it may not protect the occupant in a crash. No one should sit in a seat with an inoperative seat belt. 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 33 for additional information about your seat belt system and how to take care of your belts. 16 Driver and Passenger Safety 5.Maintain a Proper Sitting Position After 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 can be seriously or fatally injured by striking interior parts of the car, or by being struck by an inflating airbag. 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. 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.
Advice for Pregnant Women 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. Protecting Adults 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. Driver and Passenger Safety 17
Protecting Adults Additional Safety Precautions • Two people should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash. • Do not put any accessories on seat belts. 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. 18 Driver and Passenger Safety • Do not place hard or sharp objects between yourself and an airbag. 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 airbags inflate. • Keep your hands and arms away from the airbag covers. If your hands or arms are close to the SRS covers in the center of the steering wheel and on top of the dashboard, they could be injured if the airbags inflate. • Do not attach or place objects on the airbag covers. 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.
Children depend on adults to protect them. However, despite their best intentions, many parents and other adults may not know how to properly protect young passengers. So if you have children, or if you ever need to drive with a grandchild or other children in your car, be sure to read this section. 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. Protecting Children All Children Must Be Restrained 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. 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. Any child who is too small to wear a seat belt should be properly restrained in a child seat. (See page 26 .) A larger child should always be restrained with a seat belt. (See page 29 .) Driver and Passenger Safety 19
Protecting Children Your Car is Not Recommended for Child Passengers We strongly recommend that you do not carry any child in this car. One reason is that your car does not have a back seat, and accident statistics show that a child of any size or age is safer when they are properly restrained in the back seat of a vehicle. In addition, your car has a passenger's air bag which poses serious risks to children- particularly infants and small children. 20 Driver and Passenger Safety The Passenger's Airbag Poses Serious Risks to Children Airbags have been designed to help protect adults in a moderate to severe frontal collision. To do this, the passenger's airbag is quite large, and it inflates with tremendous speed. As a result, we urge you to follow these guidelines. Infants Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front seat of a car equipped with a passenger's airbag. If the air bag inflates, it can hit the back of the child seat with enough force to kill or very seriously injure an infant. Small Children Placing a f01ward-facing child seat in the front seat of a car equipped with a passenger's airbag can be hazardous. If the vehicle seat is too far forward, or the child's head is thrown forward during a collision, an inflating airbag can strike the child with enough force to kill or very seriously injure a small child. If a small child must ride in this car, follow the instructions on page 23 . Larger Children Children who have outgrown child seats are also at risk of being injured or killed by an inflating passenger's airbag. If a larger child must ride in this car, see page 29 for important guidelines on how to decide whether a child is large enough and mature enough to ride as a passenger, and how to properly protect the child.
U.S. Models To remind you of the passenger's airbag hazards, your car has warning labels on the dashboard and on the driver's and passenger's visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels. A WARNING ® DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur • Children 12 and under can be krlled by the rur bag • NEVER pula rear-facrng chrld seat rn lhe front • Sri as far back as possrble !rom !he arr bag • ALWAYS use SEAT BELTS and CHILD RESTRAINTS A WARNING Children Can Be KILLED or INJURED by Passenger Air Bag MaKe sure all cnildren use sea! bells or cnild seals. Canadian Models To remind you of the airbag hazards, your car has warning labels on the driver's and passenger's visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels. CAUTION TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY: • FOR MAXIMUM SAFETY PROTECTION IN ALL TYPES OF CRASHES, YOU MUST ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SAFETY BELT. • DO NOT INSTALL REARWARD-FACING CHILD SEATS IN ANY FRONT PASSENGER SEAT POSITION. • DO NOT SIT OR LEAN UNNECESSARILY CLOSE TO THE AIR BAG. • DO NOT PLACE ANY OBJECTS OVER THE AIR BAG OR BETWEEN THE AIR BAG AND YOURSELF. • SEE THE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND EXPLANATIONS. Protecting Children PRECAUTIONS: POUR EVITER DES BLESSURES GRAVES: • POUR PROFITER D'UNE PROTECTIOON ~~3j~t~Es ~cffR~· ~NEE?N~LQ-~~~~ ~~~~~T~E. • NINSTALLEZ JAMAIS UN SIEGE POUR ENFANTS FAISANT FACE A L'ARRIERE SUR LE SIEGE DU PASSAGER AVANT. • NE VOUS APPUYEZ PAS ET NE VOUS ASSOYEZ PAS PRES DU COUSSIN GONFLABLE. • NE DEPOSEZ AUCUN OBJET SUR LE COUSSIN GONFLABLE OU ENTRE LE COUSSIN GONFLABLE ET VOUS. e LISEZ LE GUIDE UTILISATEUR POUR DE PLUS AMPLES RENSEIGNEMENTS. Driver and Passenger Safety 21
Protecting Children Additional Safety Precaution • Do not leave a child alone in your car. Leaving a child without adult supervision is illegal in most states and Canadian provinces and can be very hazardous. For example, a small child left in a car on a hot day can die from heatstroke. A child left alone with the key in the ignition can accidentally set the car in motion, possibly injuring themselves or others. 22 Driver and Passenger Safety General Guidelines for Using Child Seats As discussed on page 20, because your car does not have a back seat, and because of the passenger's airbag hazard, we strongly recommend that you do not carry a small child as a passenger in this car. However, if you must carry a small child in this car, the child must be properly restrained in a child seat. The following pages give general guidelines for selecting and installing a child seat. See page 26 for additional information. Selecting a Child Seat To provide proper protection, a child seat should meet three requirements:
The child seat should meet safety standards. 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 box and seat.
The child seat should be of the 3. The child seat should fit the proper type and size to fit the child. passenger's seat. Small Children: A child who can sit up without support should be restrained in a forward-facing child seat. See page 26 for additional information on protecting small children. Due to variations in the design of child seats, vehicle seats, and seat belts, all child seats will not fit all seating positions in all cars. However, Honda is confident that one or more child seat models can fit and be properly installed in all recommended seating positions in your car. Protecting Children Before purchasing a child seat, we recommend that parents test the child seat to make sure it fits properly in the passenger's seat. If a previously purchased child seat does not fit, you will need to buy a different one that will fit. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety 23
Protecting Children Placing a Child Seat This page briefly summarizes Honda's recommendations on where to place a child seat in your car. Airbags Pose Serious Risks to Children The passenger's 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 airbag can kill or seriously injure the child. If a small child must ride in this car, follow the instructions provided in this section. 24 Driver and Passenger Safety Passenger's Seat Infants: Never in the passenger's seat, due to the passenger's airbag hazard. Small children: Not recommended, due to the passenger's airbag hazard. If a small child must ride in this car, move the vehicle seat to the rear-most position and secure a front-facing child seat with the seat belt. (see page 27). This car is not equipped with a tether attachment point.
Installing a Child Seat Mter selecting a proper child seat, there are three main steps in installing the seat:
Protecting Children Protecting Small Children The passenger's airbag poses serious risks to small children. If the vehicle seat is too far forward, or the child's head is thrown forward during a collision, or the child is unrestrained or improperly restrained, an inflating airbag can kill or seriously injure the child. For these reasons, we recommend that you do not carry a small child as a passenger. 26 Driver and Passenger Safety If you decide to carry a small child in this car, follow the instructions and guidelines below. Child Seat Type A child 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. Of the different seats available, we recommend those that have a five point harness system as shown. 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. Improperly placing a forward facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury or death if the airbags inflate. If you must place a forward facing child seat in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible and properly restrain the child.
Child Seat Installation The passenger's seat belt has a locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat. The following pages provide instructions and tips on how to secure a forward-facing child seat with this type of seat belt.
Protecting Children 5. 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 may help to put weight on the child seat, or push on the back of the seat, while pulling up on the belt. 28 Driver and Passenger Safety 6. 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. To deactivate the locking mechanism in order to remove a child seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let the belt fully retract. Additional Precautions for Small Children • Never hold a small child on your lap. If you are not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could be thrown forward into the dashboard and crush the child. If you are wearing a seat belt, the child can be torn from your arms during a crash. For example, if your car crashes into a parked vehicle at 30 mph ( 48 km/h), a 30-lb (14 kg) child will become a 900-lb (410 kg) force, and you will not be able to hold on. • Never put a seat belt over yourself and a child. During a crash, the belt could press deep into the child and cause very serious injuries.
Protecting Larger Children The passenger's airbag poses serious risks to children, including those who have outgrown child seats. If the vehicle 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 airbag can kill or seriously injure the child. For these reasons, we recommend that you do not carry a child passenger. With this in mind, following are some guidelines to help you decide when a given child may ride in your car. The Child Should Wear a Seat Belt When a child reaches the recommended weight or height limit for a forward-facing child seat, the child should wear a lap/shoulder belt. If a child is too short for the shoulder part of the belt to properly fit, we recommend that the child use a booster seat until 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 ride in this car. Allowing a larger child to sit improperly in the front seat can result in injury or death if the airbags inflate. If a larger child must sit in front, make sure the child moves the seat as far back as possible and wears the seat belt properly. Protecting Children Checking Seat Belt Fit To determine if a lap/shoulder belt properly fits a child, have the child put on the seat belt. Follow the instructions on page 15. 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, as shown, the child is large enough to wear the seat belt. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety 29
Protecting Children However, if the belt touches or crosses the child's neck, the child needs to use a booster seat. Do not let a child wear a seat belt across the neck. This could result in serious neck injuries during a crash. Do not let a child put the shoulder part of a seat belt behind the back or under the arm. This could cause very serious injuries during a crash. It also increases the chance that the child will slide under the belt in a crash and be injured. 30 Driver and Passenger Safety Do not put any accessories on a seat belt. 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. Two children should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash. Using a Booster Seat If a child needs a booster seat, we recommend choosing a style that allows the child to use the lap/ shoulder belt directly, without a shield, as shown. Whichever style you select, follow the booster seat maker's instructions.
A child may continue using a booster seat until the tops of the ears are even with the top of the seat-back. A child of this height should be tall enough to use the lap/ shoulder belt without a booster. JVhen Can a Larger Child Ride in this Car Children vary widely. And while age may be one indicator of when a child can safely ride in this car, there are other important factors you should consider. Protecting Children Physical Size Physically, a child must be large enough for the lap/ shoulder belt to properly fit over the hips, chest, and shoulder (see pages 15 and 29). If the seat belt does not fit properly, the child should use a booster seat. Maturity To safely ride in this car, a child must be able to follow the rules, including sitting properly and wearing the seat belt properly throughout a ride. CONTINUElJ Driver and Passenger Safety 31
Protecting Children If you decide that a child can safely ride in this car, 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. 32 Driver and Passenger Safety • Supervise the child. Even a mature child sometimes needs to be reminded to fasten the seat belt or sit properly.
Seat Belt System Components Your seat belt system includes lap/ shoulder belts in both seating positions. The seat belts are also equipped with automatic seat belt tensioners. ~ The system also includes a l±J light on the instrument panel to remind you and your passenger 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. Additional Information About Your Seat Belts Lap/Shoulder Belt This seat belt has a single belt that goes over your shoulder, across your chest and across your hips. To fasten the belt, insert the latch plate into the buckle, then tug on the belt to make sure the buckle is latched. To unlock the belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. 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. Both 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. The passenger's seat belt has an additional locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat. (See page 27 for instructions on how to secure a forward-facing child seat with this type of belt.) 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. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety 33
Additional Information About Your Seat Belts 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 15 for instructions on how to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly. 34 Driver and Passenger Safety Seat Belt Maintenance 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. U.S. Models 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 Honda WmTanty Information booklet for details. ·. 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. If a seat belt is worn during a crash, you should have your dealer inspect the belt, and replace it if necessary. 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. For information on how to clean your seat belts, see page 207 .
SRS Components 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's airbag is stored in the dashboard. Both are marked "SRS AIRBAG." • Automatic seat belt tensioners that tighten the front seat belts during a moderate to severe frontal collision. • Sensors that can detect a moderate to severe frontal collision. • A sophisticated electronic system that continually monitors the sensors, control unit, the airbag activators, and all related wiring when the ignition is ON (II). Additional Information About Your SRS • An indicator light on the How Your Airbags Work instrument panel that alerts you to a possible problem with the system (see page 37). • 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 rapid deceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate the airbags and activate the automatic seat belt tensioners. CON11NUED Driver and Passenger Safety 35
Additional Information About Your SRS During a crash, your seat belt helps restrain your lower body and torso, while the tensioner tightens and locks the seat belt to help keep you in place. Your air bag provides a cushion to help restrain and protect your head and chest. Since both airbags use the same sensors, both airbags normally inflate at the same time. However, it is possible for only one air bag to inflate. 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 air bag would be minimal. 36 Driver and Passenger Safety Mter inflating, the airbags immediately deflate, so they won't interfere with the driver's visibility, or the ability to steer or operate other controls. 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. Mter 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 may experience some temporary discomfort. If this occurs, get out of the car as soon as it is safe to do so. U.S. Owners For additional information on how your airbags work, see the booklet titled SRS· What You Need to Know About Airbags 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.
How the Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners Work Your Honda has automatic seat belt tensioners for added protection during a moderate to severe frontal collision. If your airbags inflate, the tensioners immediately tighten the front seat belts to help hold the occupants in place. The belts will remain tight until you unbuckle them in the normal way. Additional Information About Your SRS How the SRS Indicator Light Works ~ ~he J?Urpose of the SRS ~ hght 1s to alert you to a potential problem with your Supplemental Restraint System. When you turn the ignition ON (II), this indicator will light up briefly then go out. This tells you that the system is working properly. However, if the light comes on at any other time, 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 and off while you drive. If you see any of these indications, your airbags and seat belt tensioners may not deploy when you need them. See your Acura dealer as soon as possible. Ignoring the SRS indicator light can result in serious injury or death if the airbags do not inflate when needed. Have your vehicle checked by a dealer as soon as possible if the SRS light alerts you to a potential problem. Driver and Passenger Safety 37
Additional Information About Your SRS SRSService Your Supplemental Restraint System is virtually maintenance-free, and there are no parts you can safely service. However, you must have your car serviced if: • Your airbags ever inflate. The airbags, seat belt tensioners, and control unit must be replaced. Do not try to remove or replace the airbags yourself. This must be done by a Honda dealer or a knowledgeable body shop. • The SRS indicator light alerts you to a problem. 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 (see page 45 ). 38 Driver and Passenger Safety Additional Safety Precautions • Do not attempt to deactivate your airbags. Together, airbags and seat belts provide the best protection in a moderate to severe frontal collision. • Do not tamper with SRS components or wiring for any reason. Tampering could cause the airbags to deploy, possibly causing very serious injury. See page 123 for further information and precautions relating to your SRS.
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. • The car was in an accident that may have damaged the underside. 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. 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 car out of the garage. Carbon Monoxide Hazard With the trunk lid open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your vehicle'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. 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:
Safety Labels 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. DASHBOARD U.S. models only A WARNING Children Can Be KILLED or INJURED by Passenger Air Bag Male sure all ctilcran use aeatbalts or~ild seata 40 Driver and Passenger Safety SUN VISOR U.S. models Canadian models SEAT BELT TENSIONER I ... "·'·"''""" I ... ~iEUl1>11 I UrLOIIH "'•[OIH '""'"' ~"'"'""'lOS I' o l'oN""""" ..... , ..... , ... , ......... , .. _ , .... , ............. , ........... . •Do ,., "~'" " ""'"~'" ""' "" .,.,,. •• ''"""" '"" '" ··- ...... ~ .. """ •h••'"- "' "~"'" ~;··;;;;;;;;:·:7 .. ·.:~··· :~;::;~::;;;;;::;:::::·;:::~:~::~:~~··· BATTERY SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)@
front seal passenger airbags
All S RS electrical wir1ng and con 1ecto rs
ore co I or ed ~ell ow.
Tamoering wit~, disconnecting or using
e I ec ~~ i ca I test equIpment on the S R S wl rln g
can maXe the syslem inoperatiH or cause
Hcidentat firing of th inflator
A WARNING
The alrbag Inflator Is uplosive and, II
a c c ide r.t a II y de p I o ~ e d, can serious I y h urI
'IOU
Fc',lcw Service Manual instructions caretulll'·
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 ............................ 42
Indicator Lights ................................ 43
Gauges .............................................. 47
Speedometer ................................ 4 7
Select Button ................................ 4 7
Tachometer .................................. 4 7
Temperature Gauge .................... 47
Fuel Gauge ................................... 48
Odometer ...................................... 48
Trip Meter .................................... 48
Maintenance Required
Indicator .................................... 49
Controls Near the Steering
Wheel ........................................ 50
Headlights .................................... 51
Daytime Running Lights ............. 52
Instrument Panel Brightness ..... 52
Turn Signals ................................. 53
Windshield Wipers ...................... 53
Windshield Washers ................... 54
Steering Wheel Controls ................ 55
Cruise Control .............................. 55
Keys and Locks ................................ 58
Keys ............................................... 58
Immobilizer System ..................... 59
Ignition Switch ............................. 60
Instruments and Controls
Power Door Locks ....................... 62
Remote Transmitter .................... 63
Trunk ............................................ 66
Console Compartments .............. 67
Seat Adjustments ............................. 68
Power Windows ............................... 69
Convertible Top ............................... 71
Opening the Convertible Top ..... 71
Closing the Convertible Top ...... 7 4
Convertible Top Cover.. .............. 76
Maintenance ................................. 77
Hazard Warning ............................... 79
Mirrors .............................................. 79
Adjusting the Power Mirrors ..... 79
Parking Brake .................................. 80
Beverage Holder .............................. 81
Accessory Power Socket ................ 81
Audio Panel. ...................................... 82
Interior Lights .................................. 83
Instruments and Controls 41
Control Locations
42 Instruments and Controls
The instrument panel has many
indicators to give you important
information about your car.
Indicator Lights
EliA~~~I\Id~vs"l'~:l\ll IVIALFoi\Jt"fld~INDic.4.tdRtAMP: .·· ·
> · ll\lbicA'fOR: . . .. .... ·"--"-~~~'--'--:l.()WHII_lPR~ssDREIN[)ICAT0R: .
*The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for Canadian models are
noted in the text.
Instruments and Controls 43
Indicator Lights
I ~ I Seat Belt Reminder Light
This indicator flashes for several
seconds when you turn the ignition
0 N (II). It flashes as a reminder to
you and your passenger to fasten 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.
44 Instruments and Controls
~ Low Oil Pressure
~ Indicator
The engine can be severely damaged
if this light flashes or stays on when
the engine is running. For complete
information, see page 226 .
~ Charging System
~ Indicator
If this light comes on when the
engine is running, the battery is not
being charged. For complete
information, see page 227 .
U.S. Canada
I BRAKE I I ((D) I
Parking Brake and
Brake System Indicator
This light has two functions:
1. It lights as a reminder that you
have not released the parking
brake. Driving with the parking
brake applied can damage the
brakes and tires.
2. If it remains lit after you release
the parking brake while the engine
is running, or comes on while
driving, it can indicate a problem
in the brake system. For complete
information, see page 229 .
~ Supplemen~al Restraint
~ System Indicator
This indicator lights when you turn
the ignition switch 0 N (II). If it
comes on at any other time, it
indicates a problem in the
supplemental restraint system. For
complete information, see page 37.
U.S. Canada
I ABS II@) I
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
Indicator
This light normally comes on for a
few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch ON (II), and when
you push the START button. If this
light comes on at any other time,
there is a problem in the ABS. If this
happens, take the car to your dealer
to have it checked. With the light on,
your car still has normal braking
ability but no anti-lock.
~ Malfunction Indicator
~Lamp
See page 228 .
I F¥ I Trunk-open Indicator
This light comes on if the trunk lid is
not closed tightly.
[I] Door-open Indicator
This light comes on if either door is
not closed tightly.
Indicator Lights
~ Electric Power Steering
~ (EPS) Indicator
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, and watch the
EPS light. If it does not go off, or
comes back on again while driving,
take the car to your dealer to have it
checked. With the light on, the EPS
is turned off, making the car harder
to steer.
Instruments and Controls 45
Indicator Lights
lA! I Q I Tum Signal a!ld
~ Hazard Wammg
Indicators
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 192 ) . Replace the bulb as
soon as possible, since other drivers
cannot see that you are signalling.
When you turn on the Hazard
Warning switch, both turn signal
lights blink. All turn signals on the
outside of the car should flash.
I § D I High Beam Indicator
This light comes on with the high
beam headlights. See page 51 for
information on the headlight
controls.
46 Instruments and Controls
~ "Daytime Running
~ Lights" Indicator
Canadian models only
This indicator lights when you turn
the ignition switch to ON (ID with
the headlight switch off and the
parking brake set. It should go off if
you turn on the headlights or release
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.
~ Immobilizer System
~ Indicator
This indicator comes on for a few
seconds when you turn the ignition
switch 0 N (ID. 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 59 ).
This indicator also blinks several
times when you turn the ignition
switch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY
(I) or LOCK (0).
Cruise Control Indicator
This lights when you set the cruise
control. See page 55 for information
on operating the cruise control.
[ji] Low Fuel Indicator
This light comes on as a reminder
that you must refuel soon.
Liquid crystal is used in the meter
panel. You may feel the indicators
appear slowly in the low temperature.
Speedometer
This shows your speed in miles per
hour (mph) or kilometers per hour
(km/h).
Select Button
The Select button switches the
speedometer reading between miles
per hour and kilometer per hour. It
also changes the odometer and trip
meters to read in miles or kilometers
correspondingly. To change the
readings, push the Select button and
hold it until you hear a beep.
Gauges
Tachometer
The tachometer shows the engine
speed in revolutions per minute
(rpm). To protect the engine from
damage, never drive with the
tachometer reading in the red zone.
Temperature Gauge
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
mark, pull safely to the side of the
road. Turn to page 223 for
instructions and precautions on
checking the engine's cooling
system.
Instruments and Controls 4 7
Gauges
Fuel Gauge
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
when you are driving on curvy or
hilly roads.
48 Instruments and Controls
Odometer
The odometer shows the total dis
tance your car has been driven. It
displays in miles and kilometers.
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.
Trip Meter
This meter shows the number of
miles or kilometers driven since you
last reset it.
There are two trip meters, Trip A
and Trip B. Switch between Trip A
and Trip B by pressing the TRIP
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 TRIP button
until you hear a beep and the
number resets to 0.0.
Maintenance Required Indicator
This indicator reminds you that it is
time to take your car in for
scheduled maintenance.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedules
for Normal and Severe Driving
Conditions on pages 148-152 .
When the distance driven since the
last scheduled maintenance reaches
6,000 miles (9,600 km), the indicator
starts blinking. If you exceed 7,500
miles (12,000 km), the indicator stay
on.
Your dealer will reset the indicator
when they perform the scheduled
maintenance. If someone else
performs the maintenance, reset the
indicator yourself.
To reset the maintenance required
indicator, turn the ignition switch to
the LOCK position, then press and
hold the trip meter reset button until
the indicator resets.
Gauges
Instruments and Controls 49
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
I
The two levers on the steering
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 engine start button and the
remote audio controls are under the
left air vent.
The instrument panel brightness
control is in the lower left corner of
the speedometer.
The cruise control master switch is
to the left of the steering column.
50 Instruments and Controls
Headlights
The rotating switch on the left lever
controls the lights. Turning this
switch to the " ;oa~ " position turns
on the parking lights, taillights,
instrument panel lights, side-marker
lights, and rear license plate lights.
Turning the switch to the " ~D "
position turns on the headlights.
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
If you leave the lights on with the
ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I)
or LOCK (O), you will hear a
reminder tone when you open the
driver's door.
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 46 ) . To return to low
beams, pull the turn signal lever
back.
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.
Instruments and Controls 51
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Daytime Running Lights
Canadian models only
With the headlight switch off, the
high beam headlights come on with
reduced brightness when you turn
the ignition switch to 0 N (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.
52 Instruments and Controls
Instrument Panel Brightness
·.···.·.~.·.~.·~.· •. ~ ... · .. ~ ... · .. ~~.·~ .. ·.·.~.~.' .•.•.••.•. '. ). 3)1, .. ~·. ~~ .... 2;~··•············
• ~ •• < ; .~C~L!io'""'"i .... · •• :•. • .• •·•··.·····•·• cat'J +'f•H<i ·· ii ::
} c
.... ~ .... ,.., ... .;,., .... ,.., .. ..,..,..,.~~ ........ .
!0•~~/Tri
The buttons in the lower left corner
of the instrument panel adjust the
brightness of the display in five steps.
Push the + or - button five times
to see the full range.
The display 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.
With the headlight switch on, you
can switch the display to full daytime
brightness by pushing and holding
the + button. Push the - button to
return the display to the original
brightness.
Turn Signals
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.
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
To signal a lane change, push lightly Windshield Wipers
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.
CONTINUED
Instruments and Controls 53
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
In intermittent, the wipers operate
every few seconds. In low speed and
high speed, the wipers run continu
ously.
54 Instruments and Controls
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.
Windshield Washers
To clean the windshield, pull back on
the wiper control lever. The washers
spray until you release the lever.
The wipers run at low speed while
you're pulling the lever, then
complete one more sweep of the
windshield after you release it.
Cruise Control
Cruise control allows you to maintain
a set speed above 25 mph ( 40 km/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.
Improper use of the cruise
control can lead to a crash.
Use the cruise control only
when traveling on open
highways in good weather.
NOTICE
The cruise control, as it operates,
moves the accelerator pedal. You can
damage your vehicle's accelerator
mechanism by resting your foot under
the pedal and blocking the movement.
Steering Wheel Controls
Using the Cruise Control
1. Push in the Cruise Control Master
Switch on the dashboard beside
the steering column. The indicator
by the switch will light.
2. Accelerate to the desired cruising
speed above 25 mph (40 km/h).
CONTINUED
Instruments and Controls 55
Steering Wheel Controls
3. Press and release the SET I decel
button on the steering wheel. The
CRUISE CONTROL light on the
instrument panel comes on to
show the system is now activated.
The cruise control may not hold
the 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
56 Instruments and Controls
cruise control. To resume the set
speed, press the RESUME/ accel
button. The CRUISE CONTROL
light on the instrument panel
comes on.
Changing the Set Speed
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.
• Push on the accelerator pedal. Ac
celerate to the desired cruising
speed and press the SET I decel
button.
• 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).
You can decrease the set cruising
speed in any of these ways:
• Press and hold the SET I 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 I 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 I decel button.
The car will then maintain the
desired speed.
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.
Cancelling the Cruise Control
You can cancel the cruise control in
any of these ways:
• Tap the brake or clutch pedal.
• Press the SET I decel and RE
SUME/ accel buttons at the same
time.
• Press the Cruise Control Master
Switch.
When you tap the brake or clutch
pedal, or press the SET and RE
SUME buttons at the same time, 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
above 25 mph (40 km/h) and press
the RESUME/ accel button until the
Steering Wheel Controls
CRUISE CONTROL light comes on.
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 Using the
Cruise Control
Instruments and Controls 57
Keys and Locks
Keys
Your car comes with two master
keys and a valet key.
The master key fits all the locks on
your car:
• Ignition
• Doors
• Trunk
• Lower console compartment
58 Instruments and Controls
The valet key works only in the
ignition and the door locks. You can
keep the trunk and the lower console
compartment locked when you leave
your car and the valet key at a
parking facility.
You should have received a key
number plate with your 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. If you
need to replace a key, use only
Honda-approved key blanks.
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.
• Do not drop the keys or set heavy
objects on them.
• Keep the keys away from liquids.
If they get wet, dry them immedi
ately with a soft cloth.
The keys do not contain batteries.
Do not try to take them apart.
Remote Transmitter
Your car also comes with two remote
transmitters; see page 63 for an
explanation of the operation.
Immobilizer System
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 (O), remove the key, reinsert
it, and turn the switch to ON (II)
a gam.
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
vehicle'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.
This 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.
Keys and Locks
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 Indust1y
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.
Instruments and Controls 59
Keys and Locks
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is on the right
side of the steering column. It has
three positions:
• LOCK (0)
• ACCESSORY (I)
• ON (II)
60 Instruments and Controls
LOCK (0)- 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. 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.
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.
ACCESSORY (I) - In this position,
you can operate the audio system
and the accessory power socket.
ON (II) - 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.
The engine can be started with the
key in this position by pressing the
engine START button (see page
131 ).
The engine will not start if the
Immobilizer System does not
recognize the key's coding (see page
59).
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
the driver's door. Remove the key to
turn off the beeper.
Keys and Locks
Instruments and Controls 61
Keys and Locks
Power Door Locks
Each door has a lock tab next to the
inside door handle. When you push
in the lock tab on the driver's door,
both doors lock. Pulling out the lock
tab on the driver's door only unlocks
that door. The lock tab on the
passenger's door only locks and
unlocks that door.
62 Instruments and Controls
To lock the passenger's door when
getting out of the car, push the lock
tab in and close the door. To lock the
driver's door, remove the key from
the ignition switch, pull out either
the inside or outside door handle and
push the lock tab in, then close the
door.
Both doors lock when you use the
key in the driver's door. Using the
key in the passenger's door only
locks and unlocks that door.
To unlock only the driver's door
from the outside, insert the key in
the driver's door lock, turn the key
and release it. If you turn the key
and hold it, both doors will unlock.
Remote Transmitter
You can lock and unlock your car
with the remote transmitter. When
you push the LOCK button, both
doors lock. The side marker lights
and taillights flash once.
When you push the UNLOCK button
once, only the driver's door unlocks.
The parking lights and taillights
flash twice. The passenger's door
unlocks when you push the button a
second time.
The interior light (if the interior light
switch is in the center position) will
come on when you press the
UNLOCK button. If you do not open
either door, 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 cannot lock or unlock the doors
with the remote transmitter if either
door is not fully closed or the key is
in the ignition switch.
To open the trunk, push and hold the
TRUNK RELEASE button for
approximately one second.
Keys and Locks
Hom Operation
The horn will sound if you push the
LOCK button a second time within
five seconds of locking the doors.
CONTINUED
Instruments and Controls 63
Keys and Locks
Panic Mode
Panic mode allows you to remotely
activate your car's security system to
attract attention. When activated, the
horn will sound, and the exterior
lights will flash for about 30 seconds.
To activate panic mode, press and
hold the PANIC button for about one
second.
To cancel Panic mode before 30
seconds, press any button on the
remote transmitter. You can also
turn the ignition switch to 0 N (II).
64 Instruments and Controls
Replacing the Battery
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 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.
Align the v mark on the cover
with the 0 mark on the
transmitter, then set the cover in
place and turn it clockwise.
Transmitter Care
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 vehicle's
system by your Honda dealer. Any
other transmitters you have will also
need to be reprogrammed.
Keys and Locks
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.
111is 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.
Instruments and Controls 65
Keys and Locks
Trunk
You can open the trunk in three
ways:
• Press the trunk release button in
the lower console compartment.
• Use the master key to open the
trunk lock. The valet key does not
work in this lock.
• Press and hold the trunk release
button on the remote transmitter
for approximately one second (see
page 63 ).
66 Instruments and Controls
To close the trunk, press down on
the trunk lid.
To protect items in the trunk when
you need to give the key to someone
else, lock the lower console
compartment with the master key
and give the other person the valet
key.
See page 124 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 Carbon
Monoxide Hazard on page 39 .
Console Compartments
The area between the seats has two
compartments. Open the lower
compartment by squeezing the
handle. Close it with a firm push.
You can lock or unlock the lower
compartment with the master key.
The lever to open the upper
compartment is inside the lower
compartment. Push up the lever and
lift the lid. To close, lower the lid and
push it down until it latches.
Keys and Locks
Instruments and Controls 67
Seat Adjustments
See pages 12 - 13 for important safety
information and warnings about how to
properly position seats and seat-backs.
Make all seat adjustments before
you start driving.
To adjust the seat forward and
backward, pull up on the lever under
the seat cushion's front edge. Move
the seat to the desired position and
release the lever. Try to move the
seat to make sure it is locked in
position.
68 Instruments and Controls
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 in
the new position.
Your car's windows are electrically
powered. Turn the ignition switch to
ON (II) to raise or lower either
window.
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.
Power Windows
The driver's armrest has a master
power window control panel. To
open the passenger's window, push
down on the switch and hold it down
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.
Closing a power window on
someone's hands or fingers can
cause serious injury.
Make sure your passenger is
away from the window before
closing it.
··---
CON11NUh1J
Instruments and Controls 69
Power Windows
The master control panel also con
tains these extra features:
AUTO- 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.
70 Instruments and Controls
The MAIN switch controls power to
the passenger's window. With this
switch off, the passenger's window
cannot be raised or lowered. The
MAIN switch does not affect the
driver's window. Keep the MAIN
switch off when you have a child in
the car so the child does not get
injured by operating the window
unintentionally.
The convertible top on your Honda
lowers and raises electrically.
Before operating the convertible top,
make sure the car is parked on level
ground, and that there is enough
clearance above the top.
It is advisable to raise the top
whenever you park the car. This
helps to protect the car from
unexpected weather changes, and
from theft of your valuables.
NOTICE
• Do not operate the convertible top in
freezing weather. You can damage
the material and mechanism of the
convertible top.
• Do not operate the top if it is wet,
dirty, or covered with ice or snow.
• Never drive the car with the
convertible top half open.
• Do not lower or raise the top while
the engine is running.
• Do not operate the convertible top if
the car is raised on the jack, a hoist,
or on jack stands.
Lowering the Convertible Top
Park your car in the shade whenever
possible.
Extended exposure to sunlight can
cause the convertible top to
deteriorate.
1. Apply the parking brake. The
convertible top will not operate
unless the parking brake is fully
engaged.
2. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
Convertible Top
3. There is a latch on each side. Push
in the tab and pull the locking
lever down.
CONTINUED
Instruments and Controls 71
Convertible Top
4. Push the top forward while you
release the latches from the
windshield header by pushing the
locking levers forward.
72 Instruments and Controls
5. With the latches released, pull
back on the locking levers and
push them up until they latch.
6. Pull back and hold the ROOF
switch.
The windows will lower and the roof
will fold back. Release the ROOF
switch when the roof is retracted
completely into the rear shelf.
NOTICE
Do not sit on the folded convertible top,
or put heavy items on top of it.
Convertible Top
Operating the convertible top
while any part of a passenger is
in the way of the convertible top
can cause serious injury.
Make sure that you, your
passenger or any other people
around the car are clear of the
way of the moving convertible
top.
Instruments and Controls 73
Convertible Top
Raising the Convertible Top
1. Apply the parking brake. The
convertible top will not operate
unless the parking brake is fully
engaged.
2. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
74 Instruments and Controls
3. Push the ROOF switch forward
and hold it.
4. The windows, if raised, will lower
automatically.
The convertible top will raise.
Release the ROOF switch when the
top reaches the windshield header.
5. Push in the tab on each locking
lever and pull the locking lever
down.
6. While pushing the convertible top
forward, push the locking lever
forward and set the latch into the
windshield header.
7. Pull back on the locking lever and
push it up until it latches. Make
sure it is securely latched.
Convertible Top
Operating the convertible top
while any part of a passenger is
in the way of the convertible top
can cause serious injury.
Make sure that you, your
passenger or any other people
around the car are clear of the
way of the moving convertible
top.
NOTICE
Do not put heavy items on the closed
convertible top. You can damage the
material and the mechanism.
Instruments and Controls 75
Convertible Top
Convertible Top Cover
Use the convertible top cover when
the top is folded to help prevent
foreign objects, dirt, etc., from
getting into the material and
mechanism.
76 Instruments and Controls
1. Remove the convertible top cover
from the trunk.
2. Connect the snaps on the top
cover to the four pins on the back
of the interior panel.
3. Hook the fastener string to the pin
on each side wall of the passenger
compartment.
4. Fit deep the rear part of the top
cover into the space behind the
convertible top.
5. To remove the top cover, reverse
the attaching procedure.
Dust is the main cause of creaks or
other sounds coming from the
convertible top.
Regularly clean the body seals with
glass cleaner and a soft cloth. Do not
use a scraper or de-icing chemicals
to remove frost, snow, or ice from
the top or rear window.
Convertible Top
Every three to six months,
depending on how often the top is
folded, rub a thin film of Shin-Etsu
Silicone grease (available from your
Honda dealer, PIN 08798-9013) onto
the seals wherever they touch the
convertible top or each other.
Instruments and Controls 77
Convertible Top
To reduce the possibility of leaks:
• Use the door pull to open and
close the door. Do not push or pull
on the door glass.
78 Instruments and Controls
• Do not lean or sit on an open door.
• The convertible top seals are
designed to promote the flow of
water off the roof. Spraying high
pressure water directly on the
seals can distort them, causing a
leak. Use only a low pressure
water stream when using a hose,
and avoid car washes.
Hazard Warning
Push the red button next to the roof
switch 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 vehicle is disabled.
Mirrors
Keep the inside and outside mirrors
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.
Hazard Warning, Mirrors
Adjusting the Power Mirrors
Adjust the outside mirrors with the
adjustment switch on the driver's
door armrest:
1. Turn the ignition switch 0 N (II).
2. Move the selector switch to L
(driver's side) orR (passenger's
side).
CONTINUED
Instruments and Controls 79
Mirrors, Parking Brake
3. Push the appropriate edge of the
adjustment switch to move the
mirror right, left, up or down.
4. 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.
80 Instruments and Controls
Parking Brake
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 44 ) . If you try to
drive the vehicle without releasing
the parking brake, the ABS indicator
may come on, and the ABS may not
work properly.
I NOTICE
Driving the car with the parking brake
applied can damage the rear brakes
and axles.
Beverage Holder
To open the beverage holder, push
on the front edge.
Be careful when you are using the
beverage holder. A spilled liquid that
is very hot can scald you or your
passenger. Spilled liquids can also
damage the upholstery, carpeting,
and electrical components in the
interior.
Beverage Holder, Accessory Power Socket
Accessory Power Socket
To use the accessory power socket,
pull out on the cover. The ignition
switch must be in ACCESSORY (I)
or ON (II).
This socket is intended to supply
power for 12 volt DC accessories
that are rated 120 watts or less (10
amps).
It will not power an automotive type
cigarette lighter element.
Instruments and Controls 81
Audio Panel
To open the audio panel, push on the
top center and let the panel swing
down. To close, pivot the panel up
and push on it until it latches. Refer
to page 94 for operation of the
audio system.
82 Instruments and Controls
The interior light has a three
position switch. In the 0 FF position,
the light does not come on. In the
center position, the interior light
comes on when you open either door.
In the ON position, the interior light
stays on continuously.
In addition, when the three position
switch is in the center position with
both doors closed, the two bulbs in
the interior light can be turned on
separately by the pushbutton
switches next to them. Push the
switch to turn the light on or off.
If the three-position switch is in the
center position, the interior light will
come on when you remove the key
from the ignition switch.
Interior Lights
Instruments and Controls 83
84
Comfort and Convenience Features
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.)
Heating and Cooling ........................ 86
What Each Control Does ............ 86
How to Use the System ............... 88
To Turn Everything Off ............. 93
Audio System
AM/FM/CD Audio System ....... 94
Operating the Radio .................... 95
Adjusting the Sound .................... 99
Audio System Lighting ............. 100
Radio Frequencies ..................... 100
Radio Reception ......................... 101
Operating the CD Player .......... 102
Operating the CD Changer ...... 107
Protecting Compact Discs ........ 108
CD Player Error Indications ..... 110
CD Changer Error
Indications .............................. 111
Remote Audio Controls ............ 112
Theft Protection ........................ 113
Comfort and Convenience Features 85
Heating and Cooling
Proper use of the Heating and
Cooling system can make the
interior dry and comfortable, and
keep the windows clear for best
visibility.
What Each Control Does
Fan Control Lever
Pushing this lever up and down
increases and decreases the fan
speed. The indicators next to the
lever show you the speed selected.
Temperature Control Dial
Turning this dial clockwise increases
the temperature of the air flow.
Air Conditioning (A/C) Button
This button turns the air condi
tioning ON and OFF. The indicator
in the button lights when theA/Cis
on.
86 Comfort and Convenience Features
Recirculation Button
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).
Mode Control Dial
Use the MODE control dial to select
the vents the air flows from.
;i Air flows from the vents on
both sides of the instrument panel,
and from the dashboard vent in front
of the passenger.
W Air flow is divided between
the vents in the dashboard and the
floor vents.
~ Air flows from the center
vents in the dashboard above the
audio system, the vents on both
sides of the instrument panel and
from the floor vents. Select this
position when you drive with the
convertible top folded.
W Air flows from the floor
vents and the vents on both sides of
the instrument panel.
~ Air flow is divided between
the floor vents, the defroster vents at
the base of the windshield and the
vents on both sides of the instrument
panel.
\W Air flows from the defroster
vents at the base of the windshield
and the vents on both sides of the
instrument panel.
Heating and Cooling
When you select \W , the system
automatically switches to Fresh Air
mode and turns on the A/C.
Comfort and Convenience Features 87
Heating and Cooling
Vent Controls
You can adjust the direction of the
air coming from the vents on both
sides of the instrument panel and at
the corner of the dashboard on the
passenger's side. To adjust the air
flow up and down, move the tab in
the center of each vent up and down.
To adjust it left and right, turn the
dial under each vent left and right.
88 Comfort and Convenience Features
You can shut off the air flow from
each vent by turning the dial all the
way toward the t>UO mark until it
clicks.
How to Use the System
This section covers how to set up the
system controls for ventilation,
heating, cooling, dehumidifying, and
defrosting.
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.
The air conditioning does not rely on
engine temperature.
It is best to leave the system in Fresh
Air mode under almost all conditions.
Keeping the system in Recirculation
mode, particularly with the A/C off,
can cause the windows to fog up.
Switch to Recirculation mode when
you are driving through smoky or
dusty conditions, then switch back to
Fresh Air mode when the condition
clears.
The outside air intakes for the
heating and cooling system are at
the base of the windshield. Keep
these clear of leaves and other
debris.
Ventilation
The flow-through ventilation system
draws in outside air, circulates it
through the interior, then exhausts it
through vents behind the seat-backs.
Heating and Cooling
1. Turn the temperature control dial
all the way to the left.
Make sure theA/Cis off.
2. Select ;J and Fresh Air mode.
3. Set the fan to the desired speed.
CON11NUED
Comfort and Convenience Features 89
Heating and Cooling
To Cool with A/C
1. Turn on the AI C by pressing the
button. The light in the button
should come on when a fan speed
is selected.
2. Make sure the temperature
control dial is all the way to the left.
3. Select ;,; .
4. If the outside air is humid, select
Recirculation mode. If the outside
air is dry, select Fresh Air mode.
Set the fan to the desired speed.
If the interior is very warm from
being parked in the sun, you can cool
it down more rapidly by setting up
the controls this way:
1. Start the engine.
2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the
button. Make sure the tempera
ture control dial is all the way to
the left.
3. Set the fan to maximum speed.
4. Open the windows partially. Select
;,; and Recirculation mode.
90 Comfort and Convenience Features
When the interior has cooled down
to a more comfortable temperature,
close the windows and set the
controls as described for normal
cooling.
Air conditioning places an extra load
on the engine. Watch the engine
coolant temperature gauge (see page
47) when driving in stop-and-go
traffic or climbing a long, steep hill.
If it moves near the red mark, turn
off the A/ C until the reading returns
to normal.
To Heat
To warm the interior:
1. Start the engine.
2. Select w and Fresh Air mode.
3. Set the fan to the desired speed.
4. Adjust the warmth of the air with
the temperature control dial.
To Heat and Dehumidify with Air
Conditioning
Air conditioning, as it cools, removes
moisture from the air. When used in
combination with the heater, it
makes the interior warm and dry.
1. Switch the fan on.
2. Turn on the air conditioning.
3. Select w and Fresh Air mode.
4. Adjust the temperature control
dial so the mixture of heated and
cooled air feels comfortable.
This setting is suitable for all driving
conditions whenever the outside
temperature is above 32°F (0°C).
Heating and Cooling
To Defog and Defrost
To remove fog from the inside of the
windows:
1. Switch the fan on.
2. Select @ .
When you select @ , the
system automatically switches to
Fresh Air mode and turns on the
A/C.
3. Adjust the temperature control
dial so the air flow from the
defroster vents feels warm.
When you switch to another mode
from @ , the A/ C stays on.
Press the A/C button to turn if off.
CONTINUED
Comfort and Convenience Features 91
Heating and Cooling
To remove exterior frost or ice from
the windshield and side windows
after the vehicle has been sitting out
in cold weather:
1. Start the engine.
2. Select \@ .
When you select \@ , the
system automatically switches to
Fresh Air mode and turns on the
A/C.
3. Switch the fan and temperature
controls to maximum.
To rapidly remove exterior frost or
ice from the windshield (on very cold
days), first select the Recirculation
mode. Once the windshield is clear,
select the Fresh Air mode to avoid
fogging the windows.
92 Comfort and Convenience Features
MODE CQNTROL·.DIAL
RECIRCULATION~~~
SUlTON ~;;;;;;;;;;;;:~
AIR .coNDitiONING ·~-+-::-:<i!o!!
SWITCH ~~~
These settings direct all the air flow
to the defroster vents at the base of
the windshield and the side window
defroster vents. The air flow will get
warmer and clear the windows faster
as the engine warms up. You can
close the side vents with the dial
beside each vent. This will send
more warm air to the windshield
defroster vents.
For safety, make sure you have a
clear view through all the windows
before driving away.
To Tum Everything Off
To shut off the system temporarily,
turn off the fan (no lights
illuminated).
You should shut the system
completely off only for the first few
minutes of driving in cold weather,
until the engine coolant warms up
enough to operate the heater. Keep
the fan on at all other times so stale
air does not build up in the interior.
Heating and Cooling
Comfort and Convenience Features 93
Audio System
AM/FM/CD Audio System
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
vehicle's battery. To get the system
working again, you must enter a
code number (see page 113 ) .
94 Comfort and Convenience Features
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Operating the Radio
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. Adjust the volume by
turning the same knob.
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.
You can use any of four methods to
find radio stations on the selected
band: TUNE, SEEK, SCAN or the
Preset buttons.
TUNE - Use the TUNE bar to tune
the radio to a desired frequency.
Press the ~ side of the bar to tune
to a higher frequency, and the
~ side to tune to a lower
frequency. The frequency numbers
will start to change rapidly. Release
the bar when the display reaches the
desired frequency. To change the
frequency in small increments, press
and release the TUNE bar quickly.
Audio System
SEEK - The SEEK function
searches the band for a station with
a strong signal. To activate it, press
the SEEK bar on either the 1<111<111 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.
CONTINUED
Comfort and Convenience Features 95
Audio System
SCAN - The SCAN function
samples all the stations with strong
signals on the selected band. To
activate it, press the SCAN button,
then release it. When the system is
in the SCAN mode, SCAN shows 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.
Preset - You can store the fre
quencies of your favorite radio
stations in the six preset buttons.
Each button will store one frequency
on the AM band, and two on the FM
band.
96 Comfort and Convenience Features
To store a frequency:
1. Select the desired band, AM or
FM. FMl and FM2 let you store
two frequencies with each Preset
button.
2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function
to tune the radio to a desired
station.
3. Pick the Preset button you want
for that station. Press the button
and hold it until you hear a beep.
4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total
of six stations on AM and twelve
onFM.
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 vehicle's battery goes dead, is
disconnected, or the radio fuse is
removed.
Audio System
CON11NUE1J
Comfort and Convenience Features 97
Audio System
AUTO SELECf - 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.
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.
98 Comfort and Convenience Features
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.
SCAN BUTTON
A.SELBUTTON
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.
Adjusting the Sound
Balance/Fader - These two
controls adjust the strength of the
sound coming from each speaker.
The Balance control adjusts the side
to-side strength, while the Fader
control adjusts the front-to-back
strength.
To adjust the fader, push on the
BASS/FADER control knob to get it
to pop out. Pull it out slightly farther,
and adjust the front-to-back sound to
your liking. Push the knob back in
when you are done so you cannot
change the setting by accidentally
bumping it. With only two speakers,
set the fader control to the
maximum front setting.
To adjust the balance, push on the
TREBLE/BALANCE control knob
to get it to pop out. Pull it out slightly
farther, and adjust the side-to-side
sound to your liking. Push the knob
back in when you are done so you
cannot change the setting by
accidentally bumping it.
BAS TRE
FAD PULL BAL
Audio System
BASS/FAPER
CONTROL·
TREBLE/BALANCE
CONTROL
Treble/Bass - Use these controls
to adjust the tone to your liking.
To adjust the Treble level, push on
the TREBLE/BALANCE control
knob to get it to pop out. Without
pulling it out farther, turn the knob
to adjust the treble level. Push the
knob back in when you are done so
you cannot change the setting by
accidentally bumping it.
To adjust the Bass level, push on the
BASS/FADER control knob to get it
to pop out. Without pulling it out
farther, turn the knob to adjust the
bass level. Push the knob back in
when you are done so you cannot
change the setting by accidentally
bumping it.
Comfort and Convenience Features 99
Audio System
Audio System Lighting
The audio system illuminates when
the parking lights are on, even if the
radio is turned off.
1 00 Comfort and Convenience Features
Radio Frequencies
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
FMband:
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."
Radio Reception
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.
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
station drifting in and out. If you are
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.
Audio System
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, or hear only the station you
are close to.
CON11NUED
Comfort and Convenience Features 101
Audio System
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.
1 02 Comfort and Convenience Features
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 1 03
Audio System
Operating the CD Player
You operate the CD player with the
same controls used for the radio.
With the ignition switch in
ACCESSORY (I) or ON (lD, 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. In all
cases, play only standard round discs.
Odd-shaped CDs may jam in the
drive or cause other problems.
When the system reaches the end of
the disc, it will return to the begin
ning and play that disc again.
1 04 Comfort and Convenience Features
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.
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
you turn the system back on, the CD
will begin playing where it left off.
Press the eject button to remove the
disc from the drive.
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.
You can use the TUNE and SEEK/
SKIP bars while a disc is playing to
select passages and change tracks.
To move rapidly within a track, press
and hold the TUNE bar. 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.
Audio System
Each time you press the ~ side of
the SEEK/SKIP bar, the system
skips forward to the beginning of the
next track. Press the 1+111 side to
skip backward to the beginning of
the current track. Press it again to
skip to the beginning of the previous
track.
CONTINUED
Comfort and Convenience Features 1 05
Audio System
REPEAT - 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.
1 06 Comfort and Convenience Features
RANDOM PLAY - 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
and release the A. SEL/RDM button.
You will see RDM in the display. The
system will then select and play
tracks randomly. This continues
until you deactivate Random Play by
pressing A. SEL/RDM again.
If the system is in Repeat mode, you
must turn it off by pressing the RPT
button before selecting Random Play.
Operating the CD Changer
(Optional)
A Compact Disc changer is available
for your vehicle. 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.
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.
To select the CD changer, press the
CD button. The disc and track
numbers will be displayed.
To select a different disc, press the
appropriate preset button (1- 6). 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.
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.
If you eject the in-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.
Audio System
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.
To use the SKIP, REPEAT, and
RANDOM functions, refer to the in
dash player operating instructions.
Comfort and Convenience Features 1 07
Audio System
Protecting Compact Discs
Handle a CD by its edges; never
touch either surface. Contamination
from fingerprints, liquids, felt-tip
pens, and labels can cause the CD to
not play properly, or possibly jam in
the drive.
1 08 Comfort and Convenience Features
When a CD is not being played, store
it in its case to protect it from dust
and other contamination. To prevent
warpage, keep COs 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.
Audio System
Comfort and Convenience Features 109
Audio System
CD Player Error Indications
If you see an error indication in the
display while operating the CD
player, find the cause in the chart to
the right. If you cannot clear the
error indication, take the vehicle to
your Honda dealer.
11 0 Comfort and Convenience Features
I
Indication
C-----
,- .J ,_ ,_f .- .-..• c - ,_.,_,
I
[d •:: _ti I
'- ,_, I
,- I
·--=· E -IJ,?
Cause Solution
Press the EJECT button and pull out the disc.
System Error Check if the disc is inserted correctly in CD
FOCUS Error player.
Make sure the disc is not scratched or damaged.
Press the EJECT button and pull out the elise.
Check the disc for damage or deformation.
Mechanical Error If the CD cannot be pulled out or the error
indication does not disappear after the disc is
ejected, see your Honda dealer.
D_<J nott~-y to force the elise out of the player.
Communication Error Consult your Honda dealer.
LSI Error
------------ -- ----- ----- --------- --
CD Changer Error Indications
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 vehicle to
your Honda dealer.
:
Indication
I""_, ,_ '-' aJ~~E -DO
[d crrx[-I] • •
[d rrrd~E- :J2
[d n1J:sc .. --:-: '-'
.- ' I,DSC
.. ---L Cl '-'
Audio System
Cause Solution
· Press the magazine eject button and pull out
System Error the magazine, check for error indication. Insert
FOCUS Error i the magazine again. If the code does not
disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,
consult your Honda dealer.
Press the magazine eject button and pull out
the magazine, check for error indication. Insert
Mechanical Error the magazine again. If the code does not
disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,
consult your Honda dealer.
Communication Error See your Honda dealer.
LSI Error
High temperature. Will disappear when the temperature returns to
normal.
No CD magazine in the Insert CD magazine.
CD changer.
No CD in the CD Insert CD.
magazine.
Comfort and Convenience Features 111
Audio System
Remote Audio Controls
AUDIO CbNTROL··.······· BUTTON ....
Four controls for the audio system
are on the left side of the dashboard
by the instrument panel. These let
you control basic functions without
distracting your attention from
driving.
Use the VOLUME lever to adjust the
volume. Push the lever up to
increase the volume and down to
decrease it. Hold the lever until the
volume reaches the desired level,
112 Comfort and Convenience Features
then release it.
If you want to mute the sound
temporarily, push the MUTE button.
The indicator in the button will light
to indicate the mute function is on.
Press the button again to cancel
MUTE.
The AUDIO CONTROL button
changes the mode. Pressing the
button repeatedly selects AM, FMl,
FM2, or CD (if a CD is loaded) two.
The CHANNEL button has two
functions, depending on whether you
are listening to the radio, or playing a
CD.
If you are listening to the radio, use
the CHANNEL button to change
stations. Each time you press this
button, the system advances to the
next preset station on the band you
are listening to. You will see the
number of the selected Preset button
in the audio system display.
If you are playing a CD, the system
skips to the beginning of the next
track each time you push the
CHANNEL button.
These controls work only with the
factory-installed audio system. They
will not function if you install any
other system.
Theft Protection
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.
You should have received a card that
lists your audio system's code
number and serial number. It is best
to store this card in a safe place at
horne. 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.
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 "Code" 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.
Audio System
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.
Comfort and Convenience Features 113
114
Before you begin driving your Honda,
you should know what gasoline to
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 vehicle, ·
please read the information in this
section first.
Before Driving
Break-in Period .............................. 116
Gasoline .......................................... 116
Service Station Procedures .......... 117
Filling the Fuel Tank ................. 117
Opening the Hood ..................... 118
Oil Check ................................ 119
Engine Coolant Check .......... 120
Fuel Economy ................................ 121
Car Condition ............................. 121
Driving Habits ............................ 121
Accessories and Modifications .... 122
Accessories ................................. 122
Modifications ............................. 123
Additional Safety Precaution .... 123
Carrying Cargo .............................. 124
General Precautions ...................... 127
Before Driving 115
Break-in Period, Gasoline
Break-in Period
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).
During this period:
• Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid
acceleration.
Do not exceed 5,500 rpm for the
first 600 miles (1,000 km) of
operation.
• Avoid hard braking. New brakes
need to be broken-in by moderate
use for the first 200 miles (300
km).
You should follow these same re
commendations with an overhauled
or exchanged engine, or when the
brakes are relined.
116 Before Driving
Gasoline
Your Honda is designed to operate
on premium unleaded gasoline with a
pump octane number of 91 or higher.
If you are unable to find premium
unleaded gasoline, you may substi
tute an unleaded regular gasoline.
The engine will compensate for the
lower octane, but you may notice a
slight decrease in power as a result.
We recommend gasolines containing
detergent additives that help prevent
fuel system and engine deposits.
Using gasoline containing lead will
damage your car's emissions
controls. This contributes to air
pollution.
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.
1. Because the fuel fill cap is on the
driver's side of the car, park with
that side closest to the service
station pumps.
2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling
on the knob on the driver's door
jamb.
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.
Service Station Procedures
3. 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.
CONTINUED
Before Driving 117
Service Station Procedures
4. 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.
5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on,
tighten it until it clicks at least
three times. If you do not properly
tighten the cap, the Malfunction
Indicator Lamp may come on (see
page 228 ).
6. Push the fuel fill door closed until
it latches.
118 Before Driving
Opening the Hood
1. Shift to 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.
2. Standing in front of the car, put
your fingers under the front edge
of the hood to the right of center.
Slide your hand to the left until
you feel the hood latch handle.
Push this handle to the left until it
releases the hood. Lift the hood.
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
174 ).
3. Pull the support rod out of its clip
and insert the end into the hole on
the front of the hood around the
center.
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 em) above
the fender, then let it drop.
After closing the hood, make sure
it is securely latched.
Oil Check
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.
1. Remove the dipstick (black
handle).
Service Station Procedures
2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean
cloth or paper towel.
CONTINUED
Before Driving 119
Service Station Procedures
3. Insert it all the way back in its tube. 4. Remove the dipstick again and
check the level. It should be
between the upper and lower
marks.
120 Before Driving
If it is near or below the lower mark,
see Adding Oil on page 157.
Engine Coolant Check
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 Adding
Engine Coolant on page 161 for
information on adding the proper
coolant.
Refer to Owner Maintenance
Checks on page 155 for information
on checking other items in your
Honda.
The condition of your car and your
driving habits are the two most
important things that affect the fuel
mileage you get.
Car Condition
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 Owner Maintenance
Checks (see page 155 ). 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.
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.
Driving Habits
You can improve fuel economy by
driving moderately. Rapid acceler
ation, abrupt cornering, and hard
braking use more fuel.
Always drive in the highest gear that
allows the engine to run and acceler
ate smoothly.
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.
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
Fuel Economy
combine several short trips into one.
The air conditioning puts an extra
load on the engine which makes it
use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to
cut down on air conditioning use.
Use the flow-through ventilation
when the outside air temperature is
moderate.
Before Driving 121
Accessories and Modifications
Modifying your car, or installing
some non-Honda accessories, can
make your car unsafe. Before you
make any modifications or add any
accessories, be sure to read the
following information.
Accessories
Your dealer has Genuine 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 the page 123 for
additional information.)
122 Before Driving
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.
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.
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.
Before installing any accessory:
• Make sure the accessory does not
obscure any lights, or interfere
with proper car operation or
performance.
• Be sure electronic accessories do
not overload electrical circuits
(see page 231).
• Have the installer contact your
Honda dealer for assistance before
installing any electronic accessory.
If possible, have your dealer inspect
the final installation.
Modifications
Do not remove any original
equipment or modify your car in any
way that would alter its design or
operation. This could make your car
unsafe and illegal to drive.
For example, do not make any
modifications that would change the
ride height of your car, or install
wheels and tires with a different
overall diameter.
Such modifications can adversely
affect handling, and interfere with
the operation of the car's anti-lock
brakes and other systems.
Accessories and Modifications
In addition, any modifications that
decrease ground clearance increase
the chance of undercarriage parts
striking a curb, speed bump, or other
raised object, which could cause
your airbags to deploy.
Do not modify your steering wheel
or any other part of your
Supplemental Restraint System.
Modifications could make the
system ineffective.
Additional Safety Precaution
Do not attach or place objects on the
airbag covers. 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.
Before Driving 123
Carrying Cargo
124 Before Driving
Your car has several convenient
storage areas so you can stow cargo
safely.
The upper and lower console
compartments 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.
Load Limit
The maximum load for your car is
400 lbs (185 kg).
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 400 lb (185
kg).
The final number is the total weight
of cargo you can carry.
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.
Carrying Cargo
Carrying Items in the Passenger
Compartment
• 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.
Before Driving 125
Carrying Cargo
Carrying Cargo in the Trunk
• Distribute cargo evenly on the
floor of the trunk, placing the
heaviest items on the bottom and
as far forward as possible.
126 Before Driving
Your Honda is designed to give you
optimum handling and performance
on well-maintained roads. As part of
this design, your car has a minimum
of ground clearance and very low
profile tires.
• Use caution if you should drive
your car on very rough or rutted
roads. You could damage the
suspension and underbody by
bottoming out. Going too fast over
parking lot "speed bumps" can
also cause damage. • Curbs and steep inclines could
damage the front and rear
bumpers. Low curbs that do not
affect the average car may be high
enough to hit the bumper on your
Honda. The front or rear bumper
may scrape when trying to drive
onto an incline, such as a steep
driveway or trailer ramps.
General Precautions
• Because of the low-profile tires
fitted to your car, the alloy wheels
are closer to the ground. Driving
over a pothole or road debris at
too high a speed can seriously
damage a wheel. Slow down under
these conditions.
Before Driving 127
128
This section gives you tips on
starting the engine under various
conditions, and how to operate the
manual transmission. It also includes
important information on parking
your car, and the braking system.
Driving
Preparing to Drive ......................... 130
Starting the Engine ........................ 131
Starting in Cold Weather
at High Altitude ..................... 132
6-speed Manual Transmission ..... 133
Recommended Shift Points ...... 134
Engine Speed Limiter ............... 134
Reverse Lockout.. ...................... 134
Parking ............................................ 135
The Braking System ...................... 136
Brake Wear Indicators .............. 136
Brake System Design ................ 137
Anti-lock Brakes ........................ 137
Important Safety
Reminders .......................... 138
ABS Indicator ......................... 139
Driving in Bad Weather ................ 140
Towing a Trailer ............................ 141
Driving 129
Preparing to Drive
You should do the following checks
and adjustments every day before
you drive your car.
1. Make sure all windows, mirrors,
and outside lights are clean and
unobstructed. Remove frost, snow,
or ice.
2. Check that the hood and trunk are
fully closed.
3. Visually check the tires. If a tire
looks low, use a gauge to check its
pressure.
130 Driving
4. Check that any items you may be
carrying with you inside are stored
properly or fastened down
securely.
5. Check the adjustment of the seat
(see page 68 ) .
6. Check the adjustment of the
inside and outside mirrors (see
page 79 ).
7. Make sure the doors are securely
closed and locked.
8. Fasten your seat belt. Check that
your passenger has fastened his
seat belt (see page 15 ) .
9. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
Check the indicator lights in the
instrument panel.
10.Start the engine (see page 131 ) .
1l.Check the gauges and indicator
lights in the instrument panel (see
page 43 ).
1. Apply the parking brake.
2. In cold weather, turn off all
electrical accessories to reduce
the drain on the battery.
3. Push the clutch pedal down all the
way. The ENGINE SfARTbutton
has no effect unless the clutch
pedal is depressed.
4. Turn the ignition key to ON (II)
position.
5. Without touching the accelerator
pedal, push the ENGINE Sf ART
button. If the engine does not start
right away, do not hold the
ENGINE Sf ART button for more
than 15 seconds at a time. Pause
for at least 10 seconds before
trying again.
Starting the Engine
6. If the engine does not start within
15 seconds, or starts but stalls
right away, repeat step 5 with the
accelerator pedal pressed half-way
down. If the engine starts, release
pressure on the accelerator pedal
so the engine does not race.
7. 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, hold the ENGINE
Sf ART button for no more than
15 seconds. Return to step 6 if the
engine does not start. If it starts,
lift your foot off the accelerator
pedal so the engine does not race.
Driving 131
Starting the Engine
Starting in Cold Weather at High
Altitude (Above 8,000 feet/
2,400 meters)
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.
132 Driving
Use the following procedure:
1. Turn off all electrical accessories
to reduce the drain on the battery.
2. Push the accelerator pedal half
way to the floor and hold it there
while starting the engine. Do not
hold the ENGINE START button
for more than 15 seconds. When
the engine starts, release the
accelerator pedal gradually as the
engine speeds up and smooths out.
3. 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.
The manual transmission is synchro
nized in all forward gears for smooth
operation. It has a lockout so you
cannot shift directly from Fifth to
Reverse instead of sixth (see page
134). When shifting up or down,
make sure you push the clutch pedal
down all the way, shift to the next
gear, and let the pedal up gradually.
When you are not shifting, do not
rest your foot on the clutch pedal.
This can cause your clutch to wear
out faster.
6-speed Manual Transmission
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."
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 engine speed will not go
into the tachometer's red zone in the
lower gear.
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.
Driving 133
6-speed Manual Transmission
Recommended Shift Points
Drive in the highest gear that lets
the engine run and accelerate
smoothly. This will give you the best
fuel economy and effective emis
sions control. The following shift
points are recommended:
Shift Up Normal Acceleration
1st to 2nd 15 mph (24 km/h)
2nd to 3rd 25 mph (40 km/h)
3rd to 4th 40 mph (64 km/h)
4th to 5th 47 mph (75 km/h)
5th to 6th 52 mph (83 km/h)
134 Driving
Engine Speed Limiter Reverse Lockout
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 in the lower
gear. The 6-speed manual transmission
has a lockout so you cannot
accidentally shift from Fifth to
Reverse instead of Sixth.
With the clutch pedal depressed,
move the shift lever to the Reverse
side of the Neutral gate, then push
the shift lever down and shift to
Reverse.
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
brake is firmly set. Make sure the
parking brake is set firmly or your
car may roll if it is parked on an
incline.
If the car is facing uphill, turn the
front wheels away from the curb and
put the transmission in first gear.
If the car is facing downhill, turn the
front wheels toward the curb and put
the transmission in reverse gear.
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.
Parking
Parking Tips
• Make sure the convertible top and
the windows are closed.
• Turn off the lights.
• Place any packages, valuables, etc.,
in the trunk or take them with you.
• Lock the doors with the key or the
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.
Driving 135
The Braking System
Your Honda is equipped with disc
brakes at all four wheels. A power
assist helps reduce the effort needed
on the brake pedal. The ABS helps
you retain steering control when
braking very hard.
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.
136 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.
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.
Brake Wear Indicators
All four brakes have audible brake
wear indicators.
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
brake wear indicators. They make a
very audible "screeching."
Brake System Design
The hydraulic system that operates
the brakes has two separate circuits.
Each circuit works diagonally across
the car (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.
Anti-lock Brakes
Your car has an Anti-lock Brake
System (ABS) as standard
equipment. ABS helps to prevent the
wheels from locking up and skidding
during hard braking, allowing you to
retain steering control.
The Braking System
When the front tires skid, you lose
steering control; the car continues
straight ahead even though you turn
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.
CONTINUED
Driving 137
The Braking System
You should never pump the
brake pedal, 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
"stomp and steer."
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.
Activation varies with the amount of
traction your tires have. On dry
pavement, you will need to press on
the brake pedal very hard before you
activate the ABS. However, you may
feel the ABS activate immediately if
you are trying to stop on snow or ice.
138 Driving
Important Safety Reminders
ABS does not reduce the time or
distance it takes to stop the car, it
only helps with steering control
during braking. You should always
maintain a safe following distance
from other vehicles.
ABS will not prevent a skid that
results from changing direction
abruptly, such as trying to take a
corner too fast or making a sudden
lane change. Always drive at a safe,
prudent speed for the road and
weather conditions.
ABS cannot prevent a loss of
stability. 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.
A car with ABS may require a
longer distance to stop on loose or
uneven surfaces, such as gravel or
snow, than a car without anti-lock.
Slow down and allow a greater
distance between cars under those
conditions.
ABS Indicator
The ABS is self-checking. If anything
goes wrong, the ABS indicator on
the instrument panel comes on (see
page 45 ) . 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.
The Braking System
Driving 139
Driving in Bad Weather
Rain, fog, and snow conditions re
quire 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 condi
tions.
140 Driving
Driving Technique - 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.
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.
Visibility - 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 91 ).
Traction - 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
a skid.
Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer
Be very cautious when passing, or
being passed by other cars. The
spray from large cars reduces your
visibility, and the wind buffeting can
cause you to lose control.
Towing a Trailer
Your car is not designed to tow a
trailer. Attempting to do so can void
your warranties.
Driving 141
142
This section explains why it is
important to keep your car well
maintained and to follow basic
maintenance safety precautions.
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 259 for information on how to
obtain a copy, or see your Honda
dealer.
Maintenance Safety ....................... 144
Important Safety Precautions .. 145
Maintenance Schedule .................. 146
Required Maintenance Record .... 153
Owner Maintenance Checks ........ 155
Fluid Locations ............................... 156
Engine Oil ....................................... 157
Adding Oil... ................................ 157
Recommended Oil ..................... 157
Synthetic Oil ............................... 158
Additives ..................................... 158
Changing the Oil and Filter.. .... 159
Cooling System .............................. 161
Adding Engine Coolant ............. 161
Replacing Engine Coolant ........ 163
Windshield Washers ..................... 167
6-speed Manual Transmission
Fluid ............................................ 168
Differential Fluid ........................... 169
Brake and Clutch Fluid ................. 170
Brake Fluid ................................. 170
Brake System ............................. 170
Clutch System ............................ 171
Air Cleaner Element.. .................... 172
Hood Latch ..................................... 174
Maintenance
Spark Plugs ..................................... 174
Replacement ............................... 17 4
Specifications ............................. 176
Battery ............................................ 177
Wiper Blades .................................. 180
Air Conditioning System ............... 182
Air Conditioning Filter, ................. 183
Drive Belt ........................................ 184
Tires ................................................ 185
Inflation ....................................... 185
Inspection ................................... 187
Maintenance ............................... 188
Tire Rotation .............................. 188
Tire Wear .................................... 188
Replacing Tires and Wheels .... 189
Wheels and Tires ....................... 190
Winter Driving ........................... 190
Snow Tires .............................. 191
Tire Chains ............................. 191
Lights .............................................. 192
Replacing Bulbs ......................... 194
Storing Your Car ............................ 202
Maintenance 143
Maintenance Safety
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.
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.
144 Maintenance
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.
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.
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.
Important Safety Precautions
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:
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
from engine exhaust. Be sure
there is adequate ventilation
whenever you operate the engine.
• Bums from hot parts. Let the
engine and exhaust system cool
before touching any parts.
• Injury from moving 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.
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.
You should wear eye protection and
protective clothing when working
near the battery or when using
compressed air.
Maintenance Safety
Maintenance 145
Maintenance Schedule
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.
146 Maintenance
The services and time or distance
intervals shown in the maintenance
schedule assume you will use your
car as normal transportation for your
passenger and possessions. You
should also follow these
recommendations:
• Avoid exceeding your car's load
limit. This puts excess stress on
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
the proper octane rating (see page
116 ).
Which Schedule to Follow:
Service your car according to the
time and mileage periods on one of
the Maintenance Schedules on the
following pages. Select the schedule
for "Severe Conditions" if most of
your driving is done under one or
more of the conditions listed on that
page. Otherwise, follow the schedule
for "Normal 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 Genuine
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. Cars:
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.
Maintenance Schedule
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.
Maintenance 14 7
Service at the indicated miles x 1,000 15 30 45 60 75 90 105
distance ortime - whichever kmx 1,000 24 48 72 96 120 144 168
comes first. months 12 24 36 48 60 72 84
Replace engine oil Replace every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months
Replace engine oil filter • • • • • • •
Check engine oil and coolant Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop
Replace air cleaner element • • •
Inspect valve clearance Adjust only if noisy •
Replace spark plugs •
Inspect drive belt • • •
Inspect idle speed •
Replace engine coolant • • •
Replace transmission fluid •
Replace rear differential fluid • • •
Inspect front and rear brakes • • • • • • •
Replace brake fluid • •
Check parking brake adjustment • • • • • • •
Replace air conditioning filter • • •
Check tire inflation and condition Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
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
Cooling system hoses and connections
Exhaust system•
Fuel lines and connections•
148 Maintenance
120
192
96
•
•
•
• •
• •
•
U.S. Owners
Follow the Normal Conditions
Maintenance Schedule if the
severe driving conditions
specified in the Severe
Conditions Maintenance
Schedule do not apply.
NOTE: If you only
OCCASIONALLY drive under a
"severe" condition, you should
follow the Normal Conditions
Maintenance Schedule.
Canadian Owners
Follow the Maintenance
Schedule for Severe Conditions.
#: See information on maintenance and
emissions warranty, last column, page 147.
Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, Cas required for each distance/time interval. Follow this
schedule if the severe driving conditions described in the Severe Conditions Schedule on the next page do not apply.
Canadian owners: Follow the schedule for Severe Conditions.
7,500 mi/12,000 km/- Do items in A.
15,000 m i/24,000 km/1 yr Do items in A, B.
22,500 mi/36,000 km/- Do items in A.
30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs Do items in A, B, C.
37,500 mi/60,000 km/- Do items in A.
45,000 mi/72,000 km/3 yrs DReplace coolant.
DReplace brake fluid.
Do items in A, B.
52,500 mi/84,000 km/- Do items in A.
60,000 mi/96,000 km/4 yrs Do items in A, B, C.
67,500 mi/108,000 km/- Do items in A.
75,000 mi/120,000 km/5 yrs DReplace coolant.
Do items in A, B.
82,500 mi/132,000 km/- Do items in A.
90,000 mi/144,000 km/6 yrs DReplace brake fluid.
DReplace transmission fluid.
Do items in A, B, C.
97,500 mi/156,000 km/- Do items in A.
1 05,000 m i/168,000 km/7 yrs Inspect valve clearance.
DReplace coolant.
Dlnspect idle speed.
DReplace spark plugs.
Do items in A, B.
112,500 mi/180,000 km/- Do items in A.
120,000 mi/192,000 km/8 yrs Do items in A, B, C.
Note:
• Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop.
• Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, if noisy.
A DReplace engine oil.
DCheck tire inflation and condition.
B DReplace engine oil filter.
Dlnspect front and rear brakes.
CCheck parking brake adjustment.
Dlnspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots.
Dlnspect suspension components.
Dlnspect driveshaft boots.
Dlnspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS).
DC heck all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check
for leaks.
Dlnspect cooling system hoses and connections.
D"lnspect exhaust system.
D"lnspect fuel lines and connections.
c DReplace air cleaner element.
DReplace rear differential fluid.
DReplace air conditioning filter.
Dlnspect drive belt.
# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last
column, page 147.
Maintenance 149
Service at the indicated miles x 1,000 15 30 45 60 75 90 105 120
distance or time - whichever km x 1,000 24 48 72 96 120 144 168 192
--~-~
comes first. months 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 96
Replace engine oil and oil filter Replace every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months
Check engine oil and coolant Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop
Replace air cleaner element • • r-·- . . . ·~ • •
Use normal schedule except in dusty conditions
Inspect valve clearance Adjust only if noisy •
Replace spark plugs • -·~-~-·-· ~~-~
f-----
Inspect drive belt • • • •
Inspect idle speed I • --
Replace engine coolant • • • - ----
Replace transmission fluid • • • •
Replace rear differential fluid • • • • • • • •
Inspect front and rear brakes Inspect every 7,500 miles. (12,000 km) or 6 months
Replace brake fluid • -+- •
Check parking brake adjustment • • • • • • • •
Replace air conditioning filter 1" 1
• • • •
i
-~I-
Lubricate al_~!lir1J:JeS, locks and latches • • • • • • • •
Check tire inflation and condition Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Visually inspect the following items:
Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and boots Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months
Suspension components, Drives haft boots -----r----~~
Brake hoses and lines (including ABS)
All fluid levels and condition of fluids
Cooling system hoses and connections • • • • • • • •
Exhaust system", Fuel lines and connections'
1 Lights and controls, Vehicle underbody
* 1: Refer to page183 for replacement information under special driving conditions.
150 Maintenance
U.S. Owners
Follow the Severe Conditions
Maintenance Schedule if you
drive your vehicle 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.
• Driving in mountainous
conditions.
• Driving on muddy, dusty, or
de-iced roads.
Canadian Owners
Follow the Maintenance
Schedule for Severe Conditions.
#: See information on maintenance and
emissions warranty, last column, page 147.
Use this schedule if your vehicle is MAINLY driven in any of the following Severe Conditions, or normally driven in Canada; otherwise use the Normal
Schedule. Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C, D as required for each distance/time.
3,750 mi/6,000 km/6 mos Do items in A.
7,500 mi/12,000 km/- Do items in A, B.
11,250 mi/18,000 km/- Do items in A.
15,000 mi/24,000 km/1 yr Do items in A, B, C.
18,750 mi/30,000 km/- Do items in A.
22,500 mi/36,000 km/1% yrs Do items_in_A,Jt .. ~------ --· ---~~---
26,250 mi/42,000 km/- Do items in A.
30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 vrs Do items in A, B, C, D.
33,750 mi/54,000 km/- Do items in A.
37,500 mi/60,000 km/2'/z vrs Do items in A, B.
41,250 mi/66,000 km/- Do items in A.
45,000 mi/72,000 km/3 yrs DReplace brake fluid.
DReplace coolant.
Do items in A, B, C.
48,750 mi/78,000 km/- Do items in A.
52,500 mi/84,000 km/3'/z vrs Do items in A, B.
56,250 mi/90,000 km/- Do items in A.
60,000 mi/96,000 km/4 vrs _Do items in A, B, C, D.
63,750 mi/102,000 km/- Do items in A.
67,500 mi/108,000 km/41!2 yrs Do items in A, B.
71,250 mi/114,000 km/- Do items in A.
75,000 mi/120,000 km/5 yrs ']Replace coolant.
Do itefY!S_lll_ A,_B_,_(:,
-~--~--
78,750 mi/126,000 km/- Do items in A.
Note:
• Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop.
• Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, if noisy.
·--~
··-
Severe Conditions:
A
B
c
Driving less than 5 mi (8 km) per trip or, in freezing
temperatures, driving less than 10 mi (16 km) per trip.
Driving in extremely hot (over 90°F/32°C) conditions.
Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving.
Driving in mountainous conditions.
Drivin_gon muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads.
[]Replace enqine oil and filter.
Dlnspect front and rear brakes.
DC heck tire inflation and condition.
Dlnspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots.
Dlnspect suspension components.
Dlnspect driveshaft boots.
ORe place air cleaner element.
']Check parking brake adjustment.
']Lubricate all hinges, locks and latches.
']Replace rear differential fluid.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 151
82,500 mi/132,000 km/51/z vrs Do items in A, B.
86,250 mi/138,000 km/- Do items in A.
90,000 mi/144,000 km/6 yrs ORe place brake fluid.
Do items in A, B, C, D.
93,750 mi/150,000 km/- Do items in A.
97,500 mi/156,000 km/61/z yrs Do items in A. B.
101,250 mi/162,000 km/- Do items in A.
105,000 mi/168,000 km/7 yrs Dlnspect valve clearance.
DReplace coolant.
Dlnspect idle speed.
DReplace spark plugs.
Do items in A, B, C.
108,750 mi/174,000 km/- Do items in A.
112,500 mi/180,000 km/71/z yrs Do items in A, B.
116,250 mi/186,000 km/- Do items in A.
120,000 mi/192,000 km/8 vrs Do items in A, B, C D.
152 Maintenance
C Dlnspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS).
DC heck all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check
for leaks.
Dlnspect cooling system hoses and connections.
D"lnspect exhaust system.
D"lnspect fuel lines and connections.
DCheck all lights and controls.
Dlnspect the underbody.
D Dlnspect drive belt.
DReplace transmission fluid.
DReplace air conditioning filter.
# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty,
last column, page 147.
* 1: Refer to page183 for replacement information under special
driving conditions.
Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)
You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page 148) or severe
conditions (page 150 ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.
3,750 mi
6,000 km
(or 6 mo)
7,500 mi
12,000 km
11,250 mi
18,000 km
15,000 mi
24,000 km
(or 1 year)
18,750 mi
30,000 km
22,500 mi
36,000 km
(or 1'12 years)
26,250 mi
42,000 km
30,000 mi
48,000 km
(or 2 years)
Signature or dealer stamp 33,750 mi
54,000 km
37,500 mi
60,000 km
(or 2'12 years)
41,250 mi
66,000 km
45,000 mi
72,000 km
(or 3 years)
48,750 mi
78,000 km
52,500 mi
84,000 km
(or 3'12 years)
56,250 mi
90,000 km
60,000 mi
96,000 km
(or 4 years)
Signature or dealer stamp
CONTINUED
Maintenance 153
Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)
63,750 mi Signature or dealer stamp mi!km 93,750 mi Signature or dealer stamp
102,000 km 150,000 km
Date
97,500 mi
156,000 km
(or 6% years)
71,250 mi 101,250 mi
114,000 km 162,000 km
75,000 mi 105,000 mi
120,000 km 168,000 km
(or 5 years) (or 7 years)
78,750 mi 108,750 mi
126,000 km 174,000 km
82,500 mi 112,500 mi
132,000 km 180,000 km
(or 5112 years) (or 7% years)
86,250 mi 116,250 mi
138,000 km 186,000 km
90,000 mi mi/km 120,000 mi
144,000 km 192,000 km
(or 6 years) Date (or 8 years)
154 Maintenance
You should check the following
items at the specified intervals. If
you are unsure of how to perform
any check, turn to the page given.
• Engine oil level - Check every
time you fill the fuel tank. See
page 119.
• Engine coolant level - Check the
radiator reserve tank every time
you fill the fuel tank. See page 120 .
• 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
forfuel. See page 167.
• Brakes and clutch - Check the
fluid level monthly. See page 170 .
Owner Maintenance Checks
• Tires - Check the tire pressure
monthly. Examine the tread for
wear and foreign objects. See page
186.
• 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 192.
Maintenance 155
Fluid Locations
156 Maintenance
Adding Oil
To add oil, unscrew and remove the
engine oil fill cap on top of the left
valve cover. Pour in the oil, and
replace the engine oil fill cap.
Tighten it securely. Wait a few
minutes and recheck the oil level. Do
not fill above the upper mark; you
could damage the engine.
Recommended Oil
Oil is a major contributor to your
engine's performance and longevity.
Always use a premium-grade deter
gent oil. It is highly recommended
that you use Genuine Honda Motor
oil in your vehicle for as long as you
own it.
You can determine an oil's SAE
viscosity and Service Classification
from the API Service label on the oil
container.
A fuel-efficient oil is recommended
for your Honda. This is shown on the
API Service label by the words
"Energy Conserving." This oil is
formulated to help your engine use
less fuel.
Engine Oil
The API Service label also tells you
the service classification of the oil.
Always use an oil that is labeled "API
Service SJ." This service rating may
include other classifications, such as
CD. These additional classifications
are not a problem, as long as the
label also carries the SJ classification.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 15 7
Engine Oil
The oil container may also display
the API Certification seal. Make sure
it says "For Gasoline Engines."
158 Maintenance
The SAE numbers tell you the oil's
viscosity or weight. Select the oil for
your car according to this chart.
60
. 10 20
" ~ c" ' - c '
AnlbielltTertlperature
An oil with a viscosity of lOW-30 is
preferred for improved fuel economy
and year-round protection in your
Honda. You may use a 5W-40 oil if
the temperature in your area goes
below oaF ( -20°C).
Synthetic Oil
You may use a synthetic motor oil if
it meets the same requirements
given for conventional motor oil:
energy conserving, a service
classification of SJ, and 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.
Additives
Your Honda does not need any oil
additives. Purchasing additives for
the engine or transmission will not
increase your car's performance or
longevity. It only increases the cost
of operating your car.
Changing the Oil and Filter
Always change the oil and filter
according to the time and distance
(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.
1. Run the engine until it reaches
normal operating temperature,
then shut it off.
2. Remove the engine oil fill cap.
Remove the oil drain bolt from the
bottom of the engine. Drain the oil
into an appropriate container.
Engine Oil
3. Remove the oil filter and let the
remaining oil drain. A special
wrench (available from your
Honda dealer) is required to
remove the filter.
4. Install a new oil filter according to
instructions that come with it.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 159
Engine Oil
5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt,
then reinstall the drain bolt.
Tighten it to:
33 lbf.ft (45 N·m, 4.6 kgf·m)
6. Refill the engine with the recom
mended oil.
Engine oil change capacity
(including filter):
5.1 US qt (4.8 Q, 4.2 Imp qt)
7. Install 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.
8. Let the engine run for several
minutes and check the drain bolt
and oil filter for leaks.
160 Maintenance
9. 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.
NOTICE
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.
Adding Engine Coolant
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.
This coolant should always be a
mixture of 50 percent antifreeze and
50 percent water. Never add straight
antifreeze or plain water.
Always use Genuine Honda
Antifreeze/Coolant. 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.
Cooling System
If the reserve tank is completely
empty, you should also check the
coolant level in the radiator.
Removing the radiator cap
while the engine is hot can
cause the coolant to spray out,
seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and
radiator cool down before
removing the radiator cap.
1. Make sure the engine and radiator
are cool.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 161
Cooling System
2. Turn the radiator cap counter
clockwise, without pressing down
on it, until it stops. This relieves
any pressure remaining in the
cooling system.
3. Remove the radiator cap by
pushing down and turning
counterclockwise.
162 Maintenance
4. The coolant level should be up to
the base of the filler neck. Add
coolant if it is low.
5. Put the radiator cap back on.
Tighten it fully.
6. Pour coolant into the reserve tank.
Fill it to halfway between the MAX
and MIN marks. Put the cap back
on the reserve tank.
Do not add any rust inhibitors or
other additives to your vehicle's
cooling system. They may not be
compatible with the coolant or
engine components.
Replacing Engine Coolant
The cooling system should be
completely drained and refilled with
new coolant according to the time
and distance recommendations in
the maintenance schedule. Only use
Genuine Honda Antifreeze/Coolant.
Draining the coolant requires access
to the underside of the vehicle.
Unless you have the tools and
knowledge, you should have this
maintenance done by a skilled
mechanic. 1. Turn the ignition ON (II). Turn
the heater temperature control
dial fully clockwise. Turn the
ignition off.
2. Open the hood. Make sure the
engine and radiator are cool to the
touch.
3. Remove the radiator cap.
Cooling System
4. Loosen the drain plug on the
bottom of the radiator. The
coolant will drain through the
splash guard. Remove the drain
bolt and washer from the engine
block.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 163
Cooling System
5. Remove the reserve tank from its
holder by pulling it straight up.
Drain the coolant, then put the
tank back in its holder.
164 Maintenance
6. When the coolant stops draining,
tighten the drain plug at the
bottom of the radiator.
Apply non-hardening sealant to the
drain bolt threads, put a new
washer on the drain bolt, and
reinstall the bolt in the engine
block. Tighten it securely.
Tightening torque:
61 lbf.ft (83 N·m I 8.5 kgf·m)
7. Mix the recommended antifreeze
with an equal amount of purified
or distilled water in a clean
container. The cooling system
capacity is:
1.72 US gal (6.5 Q I 1.43 Imp gal)
8. Loosen the bleeder bolt on top of
the engine, and remove the
bleeder cap near the engine oil fill
cap. Pour coolant into the radiator
up to the base of the filler neck.
Tighten the bleeder bolt and
reinstall the bleeder cap when
coolant comes out in a steady
stream with no bubbles.
9. Start the engine and let it run for
about 30 seconds. Then turn off
the engine.
lO.Pour coolant into the radiator up
to the base of the filler neck.
Cooling System
ll.Fill the reserve tank to the MAX
mark. Install the reserve tank cap.
12.Install the radiator cap, and
tighten it to the first stop.
13.Start the engine and let it run until
the radiator fan comes on two
times. Then stop the engine.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 165
Cooling System
14.Remove the radiator cap.
15.Pour coolant into the radiator up
to the base of the filler neck and
into the reserve tank up to the
MAX mark.
16.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.
17.Install the radiator cap, and
tighten it fully.
18.If necessary, fill the reserve tank
to the MAX mark. Install the
reserve tank cap.
166 Maintenance
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 in the rear of the engine
compartment on the passenger's side.
Check the reservoir's fluid level by
removing the cap and looking at the
level gauge attached to the cap.
Windshield Washers
Fill the reservoir with a good-quality
windshield washer fluid. This
increases the cleaning capability and
prevents freezing in cold weather.
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.
NOTICE
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.
Maintenance 167
6-speed Manual Transmission Fluid
Check the fluid level with the
transmission at normal operating
temperature and the car sitting on
level ground. Remove the
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 Genuine Honda Manual
Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it
starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall
the filler bolt and tighten it securely.
168 Maintenance
If Honda MTF is not available, you
may use an API service SG, SH or SJ
grade motor oil with a viscosity of
SAE lOW-30 or lOW-40 as a
temporary replacement. An SG
grade is preferred, but an SH or SJ
grade may be used if SG is not
available. However, motor oil does
not contain the proper additives and
continued use can cause stiffer
shifting. Replace as soon as
convenient.
The transmission should be drained
and refilled with new fluid according
to the time and distance recommen
dations in the maintenance schedule.
Check the fluid level with the
differential at normal operating
temperature and the vehicle sitting
onlevelground.Removethe
differential fluid filler bolt and
washer and carefully feel inside the
bolt hole with your finger. The fluid
level should be up to the edge of the
bolt hole. If it is not, slowly add fluid
until it starts to run out of the hole.
Use a SAE 90 viscosity hypoid gear
oil, API service classified GL5 or
GL6 only, in the differential.
Put a new washer on the filler bolt,
then reinstall the filler bolt. Tighten
it securely. Tightening torque:
33 lbf·ft (45 N·m, 4.6 kgf·m)
The differential should be drained
and refilled with new fluid according
to the time and distance
recommendations in the
maintenance schedule.
Differential Fluid
Maintenance 169
Brake and Clutch Fluid
Check the fluid level in the reser
voirs monthly. There are two reser
voirs. They are:
• Brake fluid reservoir
• Clutch fluid reservoir
The brake fluid should be replaced
according to the time and distance
recommendations in the mainte
nance schedule.
170 Maintenance
Brake Fluid Brake System
Always use Genuine Honda DOT 3
brake fluid. 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 DOT 3 brake fluid as
soon as possible.
Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not
compatible with your car's braking
system and can cause extensive
damage.
The fluid level should be between
the MIN and MAX marks on the side
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.
Clutch System
The fluid should be between the
MIN and MAX marks on the side 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 Fluid
Maintenance 171
Air Cleaner Element
The air cleaner element should be
replaced according to the time and
distance recommendations in the
maintenance schedule.
Follow the replacement procedure
for removal and reinstallation.
172 Maintenance
Replacement
To replace it:
1. Unsnap the six clamps holding the
air cleaner housing cover.
2. Remove the air cleaner housing
cover. Disconnect the air intake
duct from the air cleaner element.
3. Remove the old air cleaner
element.
4. Carefully clean the inside of the
air cleaner housing with a damp
rag.
5. Attach the new air cleaner
element to the duct. Install the
new air cleaner element in the air
cleaner housing. Make sure the
pin on the edge of the element fits
in the hole in the bottom of the
housing.
6. Reinstall the air cleaner housing
cover, snap the six clamps back
into place.
Air Cleaner Element
Maintenance 173
Hood Latch, Spark Plugs
Hood Latch
Clean the hood latch assembly with a
mild cleaner, then lubricate it with a
multipurpose grease. Lubricate all
the moving parts, 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.
17 4 Maintenance
Spark Plugs
The spark plugs in your car are a
special platinum-tipped design for
longer life. They only need to be
replaced every 7 years or 105,000
miles (168,000 km), whichever
comes first.
Replacement
1. Remove the four hexagon socket
head cap bolts holding the ignition
coil cover.
2. Clean up any dirt and oil that have
collected around the ignition coils.
3. Remove the bolt holding the
ignition coil and pull the ignition
coil straight up slightly.
Disconnect the ignition coil
connector by pushing the tab and
pulling the connector back.
Pull the ignition coil all the way up.
4. Remove the spark plug with
a five-eighths inch (16 mm) spark
plug socket.
5. 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.
Spark Plugs
6. 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:
i 18 lbfeft (25 N•m, 2.5 kgf•m)
CONTINUED
Maintenance 175
Spark Plugs
I NOTICE I
Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A
spark plug that is too loose can
overheat and damage the engine.
Overtightening can cause damage to
the threads in the cylinder head.
7. Install the ignition coil. Reinstall
the bolt.
8. Repeat this procedure for the
other three spark plugs.
9. Reinstall the cover on the cylinder
bank. Reinstall the four hexagon
socket head cap bolts.
176 Maintenance
Specifications:
NGK:
DENSO:
PFR7G-11S
PK22PR-L 11S
Spark Plug Gap:
0.043 in ~g004in(1.1 mm •g1mm)
Check the condition of your car's
battery monthly. You should check
the color of the test indicator window,
and for corrosion on the terminals.
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
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.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 177
Battery
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.
178 Maintenance
If you need to connect the battery to
a charger, disconnect both cables to
prevent damage to the car's
electrical system.
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.
If your car's battery is disconnected
or goes dead, the audio system will
disable itself. The next time you turn
on the radio you will see "Code" in
the frequency display. Use the
Preset buttons to enter the five-digit
code (see page 113 ) .
I NOTICE
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.
Battery
Maintenance 179
Wiper Blades
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 they leave streaks
and unwiped areas when used.
180 Maintenance
To replace the blade:
1. Raise the wiper arm off the
windshield.
2. Disconnect the blade assembly
from the wiper arm by pushing in
the lock tab. Hold it in while you
push the blade assembly toward
the base of the arm.
3. Remove the blade from its holder
by grasping the tabbed end of the
blade. Pull firmly until the tabs
come out of the holder.
4. 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.
Wiper Blades
5. Slide the new wiper blade into the
holder until the tabs lock.
6. Slide the wiper blade assembly
onto the wiper arm. Make sure it
locks in place.
7. Lower the wiper arm down against
the windshield.
Maintenance 181
Air Conditioning System
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.
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.
NOTICE
The condenser and radiator fins bend
easily. Only use a low-pressure ~pray
or soft-bristle brush to clean them.
182 Maintenance
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.
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
245.)
NOTICE
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 air conditioning filter removes
pollen and dust from outside air the
heating and cooling system brings
into the interior. It should be
replaced according to the time and
distance recommendations in the
maintenance schedule.
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
climate control system becomes less
than usual. Have the air conditioning
filter replaced by your Honda dealer.
Replacement
The air conditioning filter is located
in the engine compartment on the
passenger's side near the base of the
windshield.
1. Open the hood. Unclip the
windshield base by pulling it up.
Air Conditioning Filter
2. Push the tab on the air
conditioning filter to unlock it
from the holder.
3. Remove the old filter. Put a new
filter in the holder and push it in
until it locks.
4. Put the pins on the windshield
base into their mating holes on the
support, and push the base down
until the pins snap in.
Maintenance 183
Drive Belt
You should check the condition of
the drive belt every 2 years. Examine
the edges of belt for cracks or
fraying.
184 Maintenance
An auto-tensioner adjusts the tension
of the drive belt.
The pointer on the auto-tensioner
should be between the two lines of
the indicator. If the pointer is not
between the lines, contact your
Honda dealer.
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.
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.
Tires
Inflation
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.
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.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 185
Tires
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/ cm2) per month.
Remember to check the spare tire at
the same time you check all the
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).
186 Maintenance
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 2) higher than the cold
reading. This is normal. Do not let
air out to match the specified cold
pressure. The tire will be
underinflated.
You should get your own tire
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.
Recommended Tire Pressures for
Normal Driving
The following chart shows the
recommended cold tire pressures for
most normal driving conditions and
speeds. Tire pressures for high
speed driving are the same as for
normal driving.
Fro=n~t:~~---,--~~---------,
Tire Size Cold Tire Pressure
205/55R16 89W
Rear:
Tire Size
225/50R16 92W
for Normal Driving
32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2
kgf/cm 2 )
I
Cold Tire Pressure
for Normal Driving
! 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2
L_ ___________ .L.I __ k.=..gf_lc_m_2_) _ --·-·-·-·-·-
The compact spare tire pressure is:
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm 2 )
These pressures are also given on
the tire information label on the
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.
Inspection
Every time you check inflation, you
should also examine the tires for
damage, foreign objects, and wear.
You should look for:
• Bumps or bulges in the tread or
side of the tire. Replace the tire if
you find either of these conditions.
• Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side
of the tire. Replace the tire if you
can see fabric or cord.
• Excessive tread wear.
Tires
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.
Maintenance 187
Tires
Maintenance
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.
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.
188 Maintenance
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.
NOTICE
Improper wheel weights can damage
your vehicle's aluminum wheels. Use
only Genuine Honda wheel weights for
balancing.
Tire Rotation
You should not rotate your Honda's
tires. The front and rear tires are
different sizes, so they cannot be
rotated front-to-rear. The original
equipment tires on your Honda have
a unidirectional tread pattern, so
they cannot be rotated side-to-side.
Tire Wear
The tires that came on your car were
designed and constructed to provide
superior grip during acceleration,
braking, and cornering. As a trade
off, they will wear more rapidly than
tires used on ordinary passenger
cars. Because of the car's weight
distribution, and the fact that they
are the driving wheels, you may
expect the rear tires to wear more
rapidly than the front tires.
You should carefully inspect your
car's tires for wear, damage, and
proper inflation every 7,500 miles
(12,000 km) (see page 186 ) .
Replacing Tires and Wheels
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.
You should replace them with radial
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.
Tires
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.
It is best to replace all four tires at
the same time. If that is not possible
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.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 189
Tires
The ABS works by comparing the
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 in
consistently.
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.
190 Maintenance
Wheels and Tires
Wheels:
Front:
16x61/2JJ
Rear:
16x71/2JJ
Tires:
Front:
205/55R16 89W
Rear:
225/50R16 92W
See page 246 for information about
DOT Tire Quality Grading.
Winter Driving
Tires that are marked "M + S" 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.
Snow Tires
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
tires on all four wheels to balance
your vehicle'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 vehicle's
original equipment tires. You should
drive cautiously even when the roads
are clear. Check with the tire dealer
for maximum speed recommenda
tions.
Tire Chains
Because your Honda has limited tire
clearance, mount only SAE Class "S"
cable-type traction devices on the
rear 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 the cables, follow
the manufacturer's instructions and
mount them as tightly as you can.
Drive slowly with them installed. If
you hear them coming in contact
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 start driving on cleared roads.
Tires
NOTICE
Cables that are the wrong size or
improperly installed can damage your ·
car's brake lines, suspension, body, and
wheels. Stop driving (l they are hitting
any part of the car.
Maintenance 191
Lights
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.
192 Maintenance
Lights
Check the following:
• Headlights (low and high beam)
• Parking lights
• Taillights
• Brake lights
• Turn signals
• Back-up lights
• Hazard light function
• License plate light
• Side marker lights
• Daytime running lights
(Canadian cars)
If you find any bulbs are burned out,
replace them as soon as possible.
Refer to the chart on page 245 to
determine what type of replacement
bulb is needed.
Maintenance 193
Lights
Replacing a Headlight Bulb
The low beam headlight bulbs are a
type of high voltage discharge tube.
High voltage can remain in the
circuit even with the light switch off
and the key removed. Because of
this, you should not attempt to
examine or change a low beam
headlight bulb yourself. If a low
beam headlight bulb fails, take the
car to your dealer to have it replaced.
194 Maintenance
Halogen bulbs are used for the high
beam headlight bulbs. When
replacing a high beam headlight bulb,
handle it by its base and protect the
glass from contact with your skin or
hard objects. If you touch the glass,
clean it with denatured alcohol and a
clean cloth.
NOTICE
Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot
when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch
on the glass can cause the bulb to
overheat and shatter.
1. Open the hood.
If you need to change the high
beam headlight bulb on the left
side, remove the coolant reserve
tank from its holder by pulling it
straight up.
2. Remove the electrical connector
from the bulb by squeezing the
connector to unlock the tab, then
slide the connector off the bulb.
3. Remove the rubber weather seal
by pulling on the tab.
4. Unclip the end of the hold-down
wire from its slot. Pivot it out of
the way and remove the bulb
socket.
5. Pull the bulb straight out of its
socket.
Push the new bulb straight into
the socket until it bottoms.
Lights
6. Insert the socket back into the
headlight assembly. Make sure
the bulb is installed correctly by
looking through the headlight lens.
The pins on the base of the bulb
should fit in the holes in the
headlight assembly. Pivot the hold
down wire back in place and clip
the end into the slot.
7. Install the rubber seal over the
back of the headlight assembly.
Make sure it is right side up; it is
marked ''TOP."
8. Push the electrical connector onto
the new bulb.
Turn on the headlights to test the
new bulb.
Maintenance 195
Lights
Replacing Front Tum Signal and
Side Marker Light Bulbs
1. If you are changing the bulb on
the driver's side, start the engine,
turn the steering wheel all the way
to the right, and turn off the
engine. If you are changing the
bulb on the passenger's side, turn
the steering wheel to the left.
196 Maintenance
2. Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to
remove the three holding clips
from the inner fender.
3. Pull the inner fender cover back.
4. Remove the socket from the
headlight assembly by turning it
one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
5. Pull the bulb straight out of its
socket.
6. Install the new bulb in the socket.
7. Insert the socket back into the
headlight assembly. Turn it
clockwise to lock it in place.
8. Test the lights to make sure the
new bulb is working.
9. Put the inner fender in place.
Install the two holding clips. Lock
each clip in place by pushing on
the center.
Replacing a Side Turn Signal Bulb 3. Pull the bulb straight out of its
1. Push the side turn signal assembly
forward until it pops out of the
body.
2. Turn the bulb holder one-quarter
turn counterclockwise to remove it
from the lens.
socket.
Push the new bulb straight into
the socket until it bottoms.
4. Put the bulb holder back into its
hole in the lens, and turn it
clockwise until it locks.
5. Test the lights to make sure the
new bulb is working.
6. Put the side turn signal assembly
back into the body, back first.
Push on the front edge until it
snaps into place.
Lights
Maintenance 197
Lights
Replacing Rear Bulbs
1. Open the trunk.
2. Remove the fasteners from the
trunk lining. To remove a fastener,
push on the center of the head
until it pops in. Then pull it out.
3. Pull the lining back.
198 Maintenance
4. Determine which of the four bulbs
is burned out: stop/taillight, back
up light, turn signal, or side
marker.
5. Remove the socket by turning it
one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
6. Remove the burned out bulb. To
remove the stop/taillight, back-up
or side marker light bulb, pull the
bulb straight out of its socket. To
remove the turn signal light bulb,
push it in and turn it
counterclockwise until it unlocks.
7. Install the new bulb in the socket.
8. Push the socket into the light
assembly and turn it clockwise
until it locks.
9. Test the lights to make sure the
new bulb is working.
lO.Install the trunk lining and secure
it with the fasteners. To reinstall a
fastener, reset the fastener by
pushing on the pointed end until it
pops back almost flush with the
fingers on the housing. Put the
fastener in the hole of the trunk
lining and push on the center until
it locks (the center is flush with
the head).
Lights
Maintenance 199
Lights
Replacing a Rear License Bulb
1. Insert a flat blade screwdriver
between the left edge of the lens
and the housing. The lens will
come down.
200 Maintenance
2. Pull the bulb straight out of its
socket. Push the new bulb in until
it bottoms in the socket.
3. Test the lights to make sure the
new bulb is working.
4. Put the lens back into the light
assembly, right side first. Push on
the left edge until it snaps into
place.
Replacing an Interior Light Bulb
1. Remove the lens by carefully
prying on the front edge of the
lens near both sides.
2. Remove the bulb by pulling it
straight out of its metal tabs.
3. Push the new bulb into the metal
tabs. Snap the lens back in place.
Lights
Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb
1. Open the trunk. Pull down the
trunk light cover.
2. Remove the bulb by pulling it
straight out of its metal tabs.
3. Push the new bulb into the metal
tabs.
4. Push the cover back in place.
Maintenance 201
Storing Your Car
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.
• Fill the fuel tank.
• Change the engine oil and filter
(see page 159).
• Wash and dry the exterior
completely.
• Clean the interior. Make sure the
carpeting, floor mats, etc. are
completely dry.
• Raise the convertible top cover.
• Leave the parking brake off. Put
the transmission in Reverse.
202 Maintenance
• Block the rear wheels.
• 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).
• Disconnect the battery.
• 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
vehicle body wax to the painted
surfaces that mate with the door
and trunk seals.
• Cover the car with a "breathable"
cover, one made from a porous
material such as cotton.
Nonporous materials, such as
plastic sheeting, trap moisture,
which can damage the paint.
• If possible, run the engine for a
while periodically (preferably once
a month).
If you store your car for 12 months
or longer, have your Honda dealer
perform the inspections called for in
the 24 months/30,000 miles (48,000
km) maintenance schedule as soon
as you take it out of storage (see
page 148 ). The replacements called
for in the maintenance schedule are
not needed unless the car has
actually reached that time or mileage.
Appearance Care
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 .................................. 204
Washing ...................................... 204
Waxing ........................................ 205
Aluminum Wheels ..................... 206
Paint Touch-up ........................... 206
Interior Care ................................... 207
Carpeting .................................... 207
Fabric .......................................... 207
Vinyl ............................................ 207
Leather ........................................ 207
Rear Window .............................. 207
Seat Belts .................................... 207
Windows ..................................... 208
Air Fresheners ........................... 208
Corrosion Protection ..................... 208
Body Repairs .................................. 210
Appearance Care 203
Exterior Care
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.
Only use the solvents and cleaners
recommended in this Owner's
Manual.
204 Appearance Care
NOTICE
Chemical solvents and strong cleaners
can damar;e the paint, metal, and
plastic on your car.
• Rinse the car thoroughly with cool
water to remove loose dirt.
• Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix
in a mild detergent, such as
dishwashing liquid or a product
made especially for car washing.
• Wash the car, using the water and
neutral detergent solution and
sponge or soft cloth. Start at a 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.
Do not use harsh chemicals to
remove stains from the
convertible top or rear window.
Use a mild detergent/water
solution with a soft-bristle brush
on the top, and with a soft cloth on
the rear window.
• 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.
Make sure the top is completely
dry before you fold it.
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 206 ).
Waxing
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.
Exterior Care
Polishes - Polishes and cleaner I
waxes can restore the shine to paint
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.
Appearance Care 205
Exterior Care
Aluminum Wheels
Clean your Acura's aluminum alloy
wheels as you do the rest of the
exterior. Wash them with the same
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.
206 Appearance Care
Paint Touch-up
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.
Carpeting
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.
Fabric
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.
Vinyl
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.
Leather
Vacuum dirt and dust from the
leather frequently. Pay particular
attention to the pleats and seams.
Clean the leather with a soft cloth
dampened with clear water, then
buff it with a clean, dry cloth. If
further cleaning is needed, use a
soap specifically for leather, such as
saddle soap. Apply this soap with a
damp, soft cloth. Wipe down and
buff as described above.
Interior Care
Rear Window
Clean the rear window with either
clean water or a mild detergent/
water solution and a soft, damp cloth.
Never use a brush or dry cloth, and
do not use any harsh chemicals or
abrasive cleaners. You will damage
the window.
Polish the rear window periodically
with a commerCially available plastic
polish made especially for
convertible rear windows.
Seat Belts
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
dry before you use the car.
Appearance Care 207
Interior Care, Corrosion Protection
Windows
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.
208 Appearance Care
Air Fresheners
If you want to use an air freshener I
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.
If you use a liquid air freshener,
make sure you fasten it securely so it
does not spill as you drive.
Corrosion Protection
Two factors normally contribute to
causing corrosion in your car:
1. Moisture trapped in body cavities.
Dirt and road salt that collects in
hollows on the underside of the
car stays damp, promoting
corrosion in that area.
2. 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
use road salt in winter. It is also a
good idea in humid climates and
areas subject to salt air. Be careful
of the ABS wheel sensors and
wiring at each wheel.
• Have the corrosion-preventive
coatings on the underside of your
car inspected and repaired
periodically.
Corrosion Protection
Appearance Care 209
Body Repairs
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
Genuine 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.
21 0 Appearance Care
When reporting your collision to the
insurance company, tell them you
want Genuine Honda parts used in
the repair. Although most insurers
recognize the quality of original
parts, some may try to specify that
the repairs be done with other
available parts. You should investi
gate this before any repairs have
begun.
Take your car to your authorized
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.
Taking Care of the Unexpected
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 ....................... 212
Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 213
If Your Engine Won't Start ........... 218
Nothing Happens or the
Starter Motor Operates
Very Slowly ......................... 218
The Starter Operates
Normally ................................. 219
Jump Starting ................................. 220
If Your Engine Overheats ............. 223
Low Oil Pressure Indicator .......... 226
Charging System Indicator.. ......... 227
Malfunction Indicator Lamp ........ 228
Brake System Indicator ................ 229
Closing the Convertible Top ........ 230
Fuses ............................................... 231
Checking and Replacing ........... 232
If Your Car Gets Stuck. ................. 236
Emergency Towing ....................... 238
Taking Care of the Unexpected 211
Compact Spare Tire
Your car has a compact spare tire
that takes up less space. Use this
spare tire as a temporary replace
ment only. Get your regular tire
repaired or replaced and put back on
your car as soon as you can.
Check the inflation pressure of the
compact spare tire every time you
check the other tires. It should be
inflated to:
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm 2 )
212 Taking Care of the Unexpected
Follow these precautions whenever
you are using the compact spare tire:
• 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.
• 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
the same make and model.
The compact spare tire has a shorter
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.
The compact spare tire is not
designed to be mounted on a regular
wheel, and the compact wheel is not
designed for mounting a regular tire.
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
get to an exit or an area to stop that
is far away from the traffic lanes.
The car can easily roll off the
jack, seriously injuring anyone
underneath.
Follow the directions for
changing a tire exactly, and
never get under the car when it
is supported only by the jack.
The compact spare tire is smaller
than a standard tire, which will affect
the vehicle's handling. Drive
cautiously when this spare is
mounted on your vehicle.
The size difference may also cause
damage to the rear differential, so do
not mount the compact spare on the
rear. If either rear tire goes flat,
remove the front tire on that same
side, mount the compact spare tire
on the front, then mount the front
tire on the rear.
1. Park the car on firm, level, non
slippery ground away from traffic.
Put the transmission in Reverse.
Apply the parking brake.
2. Turn on the hazard warning lights
and turn the ignition switch to
LOCK (O). Have your passenger
get out of the car while you
change the tire.
Changing a Flat Tire
3. Open the trunk. Lift up the tool
box lid and take the jack, wheel
wrench and extension out of the
tool box.
NOTICE
Use the jack that came on your car. If
you try to raise another car by this jack
or use another jack to raise your car,
the car or jack can be damaged.
CONTINUED
Taking Care of the Unexpected 213
Changing a Flat Tire
4. Remove the three clips holding
the spare tire cover by pulling
straight up on the rings. Remove
the spare tire cover.
214 Taking Care of the Unexpected
5. Unscrew the wing bolt and take
the spare tire out of the spare tire
shelf.
6. Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2
turn with the wheel wrench.
7. Locate the jacking point nearest
the tire you need to change. It is
pointed to by an arrow molded into
the underside of the body. 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.
8. Use the extension and wheel
wrench as shown to raise the car
until the flat tire is off the ground.
9. Remove the wheel nuts and flat
tire. Temporarily place the flat tire
on the ground with the outside
surface of the wheel facing up.
Placing the wheel face down could
mar its finish.
Changing a Flat Tire
lO.Before mounting the spare tire,
wipe any dirt off the mounting
surface of the wheel and hub with
a clean cloth. Wipe the hub
carefully, it may be hot from
driving.
CONTINUED
Taking Care of the Unexpected 215
Changing a Flat Tire
ll.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.
216 Taking Care of the Unexpected
12.Lower the car to the ground and
remove the jack.
13.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:
80 lbf.ft (1 08 N·m, 11 kgf·m)
14.Remove the tool box from the
trunk well and replace the jack,
wheel wrench and extension in the
tool box.
15.Place the tool box into the spare
tire shelf in the trunk.
16.Replace the spare tire cover.
Secure it with the three clips. Push
each clip down securely, and pivot
the ring down flat.
17.Put the flat tire in the trunk well
vertically as shown.
Changing a Flat Tire
Taking Care of the Unexpected 217
If Your Engine Won't Start
Diagnosing why your engine won't
start falls into two areas, depending
on what you hear when you press
the ENGINE START button.
• 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.
218 Taking Care of the Unexpected
Nothing Happens or the Starter
Motor Operates Very Slowly
When you press the ENGINE
START button, 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:
• Your car has the Immobilizer
System. You should use a
properly-coded master or valet key
to start the engine (see page 59).
A key that is not properly coded
will cause the immobilizer system
indicator in the dash panel to blink
rapidly.
• 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
Jump Starting on page 220.
• Press the ENGINE START button,
then release it. If the headlights do
not dim, check the condition of the
fuses. If the fuses are 0 K, there is
probably something wrong with
the electrical circuit for the
ignition switch or starter motor.
You will need a qualified
technician to determine the
problem. (See Emergency
Towing on page 238 .)
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 connections
(see page 177). You can then try
jump starting the car from a booster
battery (see page 220).
The Starter Operates Normally
In this case, the starter motor's
speed sounds normal, or even faster
than normal, when you press the
ENGINE START button, but the
engine does not run.
• Are you using the proper starting
procedure? Refer to Starting the
Engine on page 131 .
• Do you have fuel? Turn the
ignition switch to ON (ID 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.
If Your Engine Won't Start
• There may be an electrical
problem, such as no power to the
fuel pump. Check all the fuses
(see page 231 ) .
If you find nothing wrong, you will
need a qualified technician to find
the problem. See Emergency
Towing on page 238.
Taking Care of the Unexpected 219
Jump Starting
If your car's battery has run down,
you may be able to start the engine
by using a booster battery. Although
this seems like a simple procedure,
you should take several precautions.
220 Taking Care of the Unexpected
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.
To jump start your car, follow these
directions closely:
1. Open the hood and check the
physical condition of the battery
(see page 177 ) . 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.
NOTICE
if a battery sits in extreme cold, the
electrolyte inside can freeze.
Attempting to jump start with a frozen
battery can cause it to rupture.
2. Turn off all the electrical acces
sories: heater, A/C, stereo system,
lights, etc.
Put the transmission in Neutral
and set the parking brake.
3. Connect one jumper cable to the
positive ( +) terminal on the
booster battery. Connect the other
end to the positive ( +) terminal
on your Honda's battery.
4. Connect the second jumper cable
to the negative ( ~) terminal on
the booster battery. Connect the
other end to the metal projection
near the intake manifold as shown
in the illustration. Do not connect
this jumper cable to any other part
of the engine.
Jump Starting
5. If the booster battery is in another
vehicle, have an assistant start
that vehicle and run it at a fast idle.
CONTINUED
Taking Care of the Unexpected 221
Jump Starting
6. 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.
222 Taking Care of the Unexpected
7. Once your car is running, discon
nect the negative cable from your
car, then from the booster battery.
Disconnect the positive cable from
your car, then the booster battery.
The reading on your car's
temperature gauge should stay in
the midrange under most conditions.
It may go higher if you are driving up
a long steep hill on a very hot day. If
it climbs to the red mark, you should
determine the reason.
NOTICE
Driving with the temperature gauge
reading at the red mark can cause
serious damage to your engine.
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 car or
engine cover. In either case, you
should take immediate action.
Steam and spray from an
overheated engine can
seriously scald you.
Do not open the hood if steam
is coming out.
1. Safely pull to the side of the road.
Put the transmission in Neutral
and set the parking brake. Turn
off the heating and cooling system
and all other accessories. Turn on
the hazard warning indicators.
2. If you see steam and/ or spray
coming from under the hood, turn
off the engine.
If Your Engine Overheats
3. 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.
4. If the temperature gauge stays at
the red mark, turn off the engine.
5. Wait until you see no more signs
of steam or spray, then open the
hood.
CONTINUED
Taking Care of the Unexpected 223
If Your Engine Overheats
6. 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 Emergency
Towing on page 238 ) .
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.
224 Taking Care of the Unexpected
7. If you don't find an obvious leak,
check the coolant level in the
radiator reserve tank (see page
120 ) . If the level is below the
MIN mark, add coolant to halfway
between the MIN and MAX marks.
8. 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.
9. 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.
lO.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.
ll.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 Emergency
Towing on page 238 .)
If Your Engine Overheats
12.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.
Taking Care of the Unexpected 225
Low Oil Pressure Indicator
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.
226 Taking Care of the Unexpected
NOTICE
Running the engine with low oil
pressure can cause serious mechanical
damage almost immediately. Turn off
the engine as soon as you can safely get
the car stopped.
1. Safely pull off the road and shut
off the engine. Turn on the hazard
warning indicators.
2. Let the car sit for a minute. Open
the hood and check the oil level
(see page 119 ). 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.
3. If necessary, add oil to bring the
level back to the full mark on the
dipstick (see page 120 ) .
4. 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 Emergency
Towing on page 238 .)
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,
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.
Charging System Indicator
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.
Taking Care of the Unexpected 227
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
This indicator comes on for a few
seconds when you turn the ignition
switch ON (II). 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.
228 Taking Care of the Unexpected
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 at least
three times. Replace the fuel fill cap
if it is missing. Tightening the cap
will not make the indicator turn off
immediately; it takes three driving
trips.
If the indicator remains on past three
driving trips, 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.
You should also have the dealer
inspect your car if this indicator
comes on repeatedly, even though it
may turn off as you continue driving.
NOTICE
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.
The Brake System Indicator light
comes on when you turn the ignition
ON (II). If the parking brake is not
set, it goes off after you start the
engine. If the parking brake is set, it
goes off when you fully release the
parking brake with the engine
running.
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 170 ) . 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.
Brake System Indicator
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.
If you must drive the car a short
distance in this condition, drive
slowly and cautiously.
Taking Care of the Unexpected 229
Closing the Convertible Top
If the electric motor will not close
the convertible top, do the following.
1. Check the fuse for the convertible
top motor (see page 231 ) . If the
fuse is blown, replace it with one
of the same or lower rating.
2. Try closing the convertible top. If
the new fuse blows immediately or
the convertible top still does not
operate, you can close the
convertible top manually.
230 Taking Care of the Unexpected
3. Locate the electrical connector for
the convertible top motor.
It is under the lower corner of the
dashboard on the passenger's side.
Disconnect the connector by
pushing the tab and pulling the
connector down.
4. Holding each corner of the
convertible top, raise the top and
push it forward as far as it will go.
5. Follow steps 5 through 7 of the
closing procedure on page 75 .
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 interior fuse box is underneath
the dashboard on the driver's side.
Fuses
There are two under-hood fuse
boxes in the engine compartment.
The main fuse box is located on the
passenger's side near the battery. To
open it, push the two tabs as shown.
CONTINUED
Taking Care of the Unexpected 231
Fuses
The auxiliary fuse box is located on
the driver's side near the brake fluid
reservoir. To open it, push the tab on
each side and remove the lid.
232 Taking Care of the Unexpected
Checking and Replacing Fuses
If something electrical in your car
stops working, the first thing you
should check for is a blown fuse.
Determine from the chart on pages
234 and 235 , 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.
1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK
(0). Make sure the headlights and
all other accessories are off.
2. Remove the cover from the fuse
box.
3. 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.
4. Check the smaller fuses by pulling
out the fuse with the fuse puller
provided in the interior fuse box.
5. Look for a burned wire inside the
fuse. If it is burned, replace it with
one of the spare fuses of the same
rating or lower.
If you cannot drive the vehicle
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 you can do without that circuit
temporarily (such as the accessory
power socket or radio).
Fuses
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.
NOTICE
Replacing a fuse with one that has a
higher rating greatly increases the
chances of damaging the electrical
system. If you do not have a replace
ment fuse with the proper rating for the
circuit, install one with a lower rating.
6. 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.
CONTINUED
Taking Care of the Unexpected 233
Fuses
INTERIOR FUSE BOX
No: Amps. Circuits Protected No. Amps. Circuits Protected
1 7.5A Windshield Wiper, 14 lOA Daytime Running Lights*
Auto Stop Signal 15 lOA Keyless Entry
2 15A Washer Motor 16 7.5A Back-up
3 - Not used 17 7.5A Interior Light
4 - Not used 18 lOA Small Lights
5 lOA Accessory Socket 19 15A Radio
6 20A Windshield Wiper 20 7.5A Starter Signal
7 7.5A Tum Light 21 7.5A Heater Control,
8 15A ACG Cooling Fan Relay
9 7.5A Instrument Light, Back·up 22 7.5A Power Mirrors
Lights 23 20A Right Power Window
10 15A Ignition Coil 24 20A Left Power Window
11 7.5A Engine Start 25 - Not used
12 15A Fuel Pump, SRS 26 - Not used
13 lOA SRS 27 - Not used
* : Canadian Model
234 Taking Care of the Unexpected
UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOXES
(MAIN FUSE BOX)
(AUXILIARY FUSE BOX)
No.
1
-~~
2 ---------
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
i 12
13
No.
1
2
~-
3
4
5
Amps. Circuits Protected
Lighting 1 Relay
·- -··-- -·-
Lighting 2 Relay
~-
r--c-~---
- Horn Relay
40A Power Window Motor
20A Right Roof Motor
~
Not used
30A
!
BackUpACC
20A Left Roof Motor
40A ' Heater Motor
20A Condenser Fan
~
Not used
~
Condenser Fan Reday
~
Cooling Fan Relay
Amps. Circuits Protected
- Not used - ··--·-··-·
Not used ______ ,. ________
~---
~
Not used
---··
70A EPS ___________ , __
60A Air Pump
Fuses
'
No. Amps. Circuits Protected
14 Magnetic Clutch Relay
r--~~ ·- - ··----------------- ....... -·---
15 20A Right Headlight
'1:6-·-· --
15A ACGS
17 lOA Hazard Warning Lights
18 20A Cooling Fan
--
19
~
Not used
··-
20 lOA Stop
21 20A Left Headlight
22 20A ABS F/S
23 30A ABS Motor
24 lOOA Battery
25 40A IGl Main
--------
Taking Care of the Unexpected 235
If Your Car Gets Stuck
If your car gets stuck in sand, mud,
or snow, call a towing service to pull
it out (see page 238).
236 Taking Care of the Unexpected
For very short distances, such as
freeing the car, you can use the
detachable towing hook that mounts
on the anchors in the front and rear
bumpers.
To use the towing hook:
1. Remove the cover from the
bumper.
2. Remove the towing hook, hook
extension and wheel wrench from
the tool box.
3. Using the wheel wrench, fasten
the extension into the bolt hole in
the anchor.
4. Screw the towing hook into the
extension and tighten it securely
by hand.
If Your Car Gets Stuck
Taking Care of the Unexpected 237
Emergency Towing
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.
238 Taking Care of the Unexpected
Flat-bed Equipment - The operator
loads your vehicle on the back of a
truck. This is the only way your
S2000 should be transported.
When you contact the towing agency,
inform them that you have an S2000
and that a flat-bed is required.
Wheel Lift Equipment - 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. Because
the S2000 sits so low, the body could
come in contact with the ground and
be damaged. This method of
towing is unacceptable.
Sling-type Equipment - 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.
This method of towing is
unacceptable.
Emergency Towing
Taking Care of the Unexpected 239
240
The diagrams in this section give
you the dimensions and capacities of
your Honda, and the locations of the
identification numbers. The expla
nations of several electronic and
mechanical systems on your Honda
are for the more technically-oriented
owner.
Identification Numbers ................. 242
Specifications ................................. 244
DOT Tire Quality Grading
(U.S. Vehicles) ....................... 246
Treadwear .................................. 246
Traction ....................................... 246
Temperature .............................. 247
Technical Information
Oxygenated Fuels .......................... 248
Driving in Foreign Countries ....... 249
Emissions Controls ........................ 250
The Clean Air Act.. .................... 250
Crankcase Emissions Control
System ..................................... 250
Evaporative Emissions Control
System ..................................... 250
Exhaust Emissions Controls .... 251
PGM-FI System ..................... 251
Ignition Timing Control
System ................................. 251
Secondary Air Injection
System ................................. 251
Three Way Catalytic
Converter.. .......................... 251
Replacement Parts ..................... 251
Three Way Catalytic Converter ... 252
Technical Information 241
Identification Numbers
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.
242 Technical Information
The Engine Number is stamped on
the left front corner of the engine
block.
The Transmission Number is on a
label underneath the transmission.
Identification Numbers
Technical Information 243
Specifications
Dimensions
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Track Front
Rear
Engine
Type
Bore x Stroke
Displacement
Compression ratio
Spark plugs
244 Technical Information
162.0in(4,115mm)
68.9 in (1,750 mm)
50.6 in (1,285 mm)
94.5 in (2,400 mm)
57.9 in (1,470 mm)
59.4 in (1,510 mm)
See the certification label attached
to the driver's door"amb.
Water cooled 4-stroke DOHC
VTEC 4-cylinder l=)asoline engine
3.43 x 3.31 in (87.0 x 84.0 mm)
121.8 cu-in (1,997 cm 3 )
11.0 : 1
See spark plug maintenance
section page 174.
c apac1t1es
Fuel tank 13.2 US aal (50 ll, 11.0 Imp qal)
Engine coolant
Change*' 1.72 US aal (6.51\, 1.43 Imp qal)
Total 2.01 US l=)al (7.61\, 1.67 Imp gal)
Engine oil Change*'
Including filter 5.1 US qt (4.81\, 4.2 Imp qt)
Without filter 4.8 USgt (4.51\, 4.0 Imp qt)
Total 5.9 US qt (5.61\, 4.9 Imp qt)
Manual Chanl=)e 1.6 US_g_t (1.51\, 1.31mp qt)
transmission Total 1.7 US qt (1.61\, 1.41mp qt)
fluid
Differential Chan_g_e 0.78 US qt (0.741\, 0.65 Imp qt)
oil Total 0.81 US qt (0.77 ll, 0.68 Imp at)
Windshield U.S. Cars 2.7 US qt (2.61\, 2.3 ImP at)
washer Canadian Cars 4.4 US qt (4.21\, 3.7 Imp qt)
reservoir
* 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the
engine.
Reserve tank capacity:
0.16 US gal (0.61\, 0.131mp gal)
* 2: Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.
Specifications
Lights Battery
Headlights Hi~h 12 v - 55W Capacity 12 V - 36 AH/5 H R
Daytime runnin~ li~hts 12 v - 55W(H1)
Front turn signal lights 12 v - 21 w Fuses
Rear turn si~nalli~hts 12 v - 21 w Under-hood See page 235 or the fuse box
Stop/Taillights 12 v - 21 W/5 W cover.
Side marker lights Front 12 v - 5W Interior See page 234 or the fuse label
Rear 12 v - 5W attached to the inside of the fuse
Back-up lights 12 v - 21 w box door under the dashboard.
License plate li~hts 12 v - 5W
Interior light 12 v - 5W AI' 1gnment
Trunk light 12 v - 5W Toe Front 0.00 in (0.0 mm)
Rear in 0.24 in (6.0 mm)
Air conditioning Camber Front -0°30'
Refrigerant type HFC-134a (R-134a) Rear -F30'
Charge quantity 19.4-21.2 oz (550-600 ~) Caster Front 60
Lubricant type SP-10
Tires
Size Front 205/55R16 89W
Rear 225/50R16 92W
Spare Tire T125/70D16 96M
Pressure Front 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm 2 )
Rear 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm 2 )
Spare Tire 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 k~f/cm 2 )
Technical Information 245
DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)
The tires on your vehicle meet all
U.S. Federal Safety Requirements.
All tires are also graded for
treadwear, traction, and temperature
performance according to
Department of Transportation
(DOT) standards. The following
explains these gradings.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall
between the tread shoulder and the
maximum section width. For
example:
Treadwear 200
TractionAA
Temperature A
246 Technical Information
Treadwear
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.
Traction
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.
Warning: The traction grade
assigned to this tire is based on
straight-ahead braking traction tests,
and does not include acceleration,
cornering, hydroplaning, or peak
traction characteristics.
Temperature
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.
DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)
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 build-up and possible tire
failure.
Technical Information 247
Oxygenated Fuels
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
information to be posted on the
pump.
248 Technical Information
The following are the U.S. EPA and
Canadian CGSB approved
percentages of oxygenates:
EfHANOL (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."
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl
Ether)
You may use gasoline containing up
to 15 percent MTBE by volume.
MEfHANOL (methyl or wood
alcohol)
You may use gasoline containing up
to 5 percent methanol by volume as
long as it also contains cosolvents
and corrosion inhibitors to protect
the fuel system. Gasoline containing
more than 5 percent methanol by
volume may cause starting and/ or
performance problems. It may also
damage metal, rubber and plastic
parts of your fuel system.
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.
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
the oxygen sensors and the three
way catalytic converter. These re
placements are not covered under
warranty.
Driving in Foreign Countries
Technical Information 249
Emissions Controls
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.
250 Technical Information
The Clean Air Act
The United States Clean Air Act*
sets standards for automobile
emissions. It also requires that
automobile manufacturers explain to
owners how their emissions controls
work and what to do to maintain
them. This section summarizes how
the emissions controls work.
Scheduled maintenance is on page
148.
* In Canada, Honda vehicles comply
with the Canadian Motor Vehicle
Safety Standards (CMVSS) for
Emissions valid at the time they are
manufactured.
Crankcase Emissions Control
System
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.
Evaporative Emissions Control
System
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.
Exhaust Emissions Controls
The exhaust emissions controls
include four systems: PGM-FI,
Ignition Timing Control, Secondary
Air Injection System 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.
PGM-FI System
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.
Ignition Timing Control System
This system constantly adjusts the
ignition timing, reducing the amount
of HC, CO and NOx produced.
Secondazy Air Injection System
During engine warm-up, air is
pumped into the exhaust to reduce
emissions when the engine is cold.
Three Way Catalytic Converter
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 (COz), dinitrogen
(Nz), and water vapor.
Emissions Controls
Replacement Parts
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
Genuine Honda replacement parts or
their equivalent for repairs. Using
lower quality parts may increase the
emissions from your car.
The emissions control systems are
covered by warranties separate from
the rest of your car. Read your
warranty manual for more informa
tion.
Technical Information 251
Three Way Catalytic Converter
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.
252 Technical Information
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.
Warranty and Customer Relations
Customer Relations
Information ................................. 254
U.S. Zone Office Map .................... 255
Canada Zone Office Map .............. 256
Warranty Coverages ..................... 257
Reporting Safety Defects
(U.S. Vehicles) ........................... 258
Authorized Manuals ...................... 259
Warranty and Customer Relations 253
Customer Relations 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.
254 Warranty and Customer Relations
If you are dissatisfied with the
decision made by the dealership's
management, contact your Honda
Customer Relations Zone Office.
Refer to the U.S. and Canadian Zone
Office maps on the following pages.
When you call or write, please give
us this information:
• Vehicle Identification Number
(see page 242)
• 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
• N arne of the dealer who sold the
car to you
ZONE 15
ZONE2
The addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot
reach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information.
1 Western Zone
P.O. Box 2260
700 Van Ness Avenue
Torrance, California
90509-2260
(310) 781-4565
2 Northwestern Zone
P.O. Box 20186
12439 N .E. Airport Way
Portland, Oregon 97230
I 503 I 256-0943
(also includes Alaska and
Hawaii)
3 South Central Zone
4529 Royal Lane
Irving, Texas 75063
(972) 929-5481
4 Central Zone
101 South Stanfield Road
Troy, Ohio 45373
(937) 332-6250
5 Northeastern Zone
P.O. Box 337
Eastgate Industrial Park
115 Gaither Drive
Moorestown, New Jersey 08057
(609) 235-5533
Includes: NYC Metro area and
Fairfield County, CT area
U.S. Zone Office Map
6 Mid-Atlantic Zone
902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878
(301 I 990-2020
7 Southeastern Zone
1500 Morrison Parkway
Alpharetta, Georgia 30004
(770) 442-2045
8 North Central Zone
601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004
(847) 870-5600
9 New England Zone
555 Old County Road
Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096
(860) 623-3310
See Zone 5 for:
NYC Metro area and
Fairfield County, CT area
1 0 West Central Zone
1600 South Abilene Street, SuiteD
Aurora, Colorado 80012
(303) 696-3935
15 Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I.
Bella International
P.O. Box 190816
San Juan, PR 00919-0816
(787) 250-4318
Warranty and Customer Relations 255
Canada Zone Office Map
256 Warranty and Customer Relations
COSTOMER RELATIONS
RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTELE
Honda Canada Inc.
715 Milner Avenue
Toronto, ON
M1B2K8
Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9
Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909
Toronto (416) 287-4776
U.S. Owners
Your new Honda is covered by these
warranties:
New Car Limited Warranty - covers
your new vehicle, except for the
battery, emissions control systems
and accessories, against defects in
materials and workmanship.
Emissions Control Systems Defects
Warranty and Emissions
Performance Warranty- these two
warranties cover your car's emis
sions control systems. Time, mileage,
and coverage are conditional. Please
read the warranty manual for exact
information.
Original Equipment Battery Limited
Warranty - this warranty gives up
to 100 percent credit toward a
replacement battery.
Seat Belt Limited Warranty - a seat
belt that fails to function properly is
covered for the useful life of the
vehicle.
Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
- all exterior body panels are
covered for rust-through from the
inside for the specified time period
with no mileage limit.
Accessory Limited Warranty
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.
Replacement Parts Limited
Warranty - covers all Genuine
Honda replacement parts against
defects in materials and workman
ship.
Warranty Coverages
Replacement Battery Limited
Warranty- provides prorated
coverage for a replacement battery
purchased from a Honda dealer.
Replacement Muffler Lifetime
Limited Warranty - provides
coverage for as long as the pur
chaser of the muffler owns the car.
Restrictions and exclusions apply to
all these warranties. Please read the
2000 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.
Canadian Owners
Please refer to the 2000 Warranty
Manual that came with your car.
Warranty and Customer Relations 25 7
Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)
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.
258 Warranty and Customer Relations
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.
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.
Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals
(U.S. only)
The following publications covering the operation and
servicing of your car 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 calll-800-782-4356.
~- ~-· --·--·-- ~---
Publication From Description Price
Form Number Each*
-~---~-~
61S2AOO 2000 Honda S2000 $62.00
Service Manual
61S2AOOEL 2000 Honda S2000 $42.00
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual
61S2A30 2000 Honda S2000 $40.00
Body Repair Manual
31S2A600 2000 Honda S2000 $32.00
Owner's Manual
HON-R Order Form for Previous Years- FREE
Indicate Year and Model Desired
' Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring
_ _<J_I:>_Ii_gation.
I
Authorized Manuals
Valid only for sales within the US. Canadian owners should
contact their authorized Honda dealer.
ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-782-4356
(NOTE: For Credit Card Holder Orders Only)
Monday-Friday 8:00A.M. ~ 6:00P.M. EST
MINIMUM CREDIT CARD PURCHASE $10.00
OR
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.
Price Total
Qty
Each~ Price
TOTAL MATERIAL
Mich. Purchases
Add 6% Sales Tax
HANDUNG CHARGE $6.00
GRAND TOTAL
259
Authorized Manuals
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.
Customer Name Attention
Street Address --- No P.O. Box Number Apartment Number
City State & Zip Code
Daytime Telephone Number (
D
D
Check or money order enclosed payable to Helm Inc U.S. funds only.
Do not send cash
Master
Card
Account Number
D
VISA
CUSTOMER SIGNATURE
D
Check here if your billing address is different
from the shipping address shown above.
Expiration: Mo. Yr.
DATE
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.
tELm P.O. BOX 07280·DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207·1-800-782-4356
260
Service Manual:
This manual covers maintenance and recommended
procedures for repair to engine and chassis components.
It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simple
enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under
stand.
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:
This manual complements the Service Manual by
providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each
electrical circuit in your car.
Body Repair Manual:
This manual describes the procedures involved in the
replacement of damaged body parts.
A
Accessories
Installation .................................. 122
Accessory Power Socket ................ 81
ACCESSORY (Ignition Key
Position) ........................................ 61
Adding
Brake Fluid ................................. 170
Clutch Fluid ................................ 171
Engine Coolant.. ......................... 161
Engine Oil ................................... 157
Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 168
Windshield Washer Fluid ......... 167
Additional Information About
Your Seat Belts ........................ 33
Lap/Shoulder Belt.. ..................... 33
Seat Belt Maintenance ................ 34
Seat Belt System Components ... 33
Additional Information About
Your SRS ................................... 37
Additional Safety Precautions .... 38
How the Automatic Seat Belt
Tensioners Work ..................... 37
How Your Airbags Work ............ 35
How the SRS Indicator
Works ........................................ 37
SRS Components ......................... 35
Additives, Engine Oil... .................. 158
Adjustments
Mirrors .......................................... 79
Seats .............................................. 68
Airbag (SRS) ...................................... 9
Air Cleaner Element.. .................... l72
Air Conditioning ............................... 86
Maintenance ............................... 182
Usage ............................................. 86
Air Outlets (Vents) .......................... 88
Air Pressure, Tires ........................ 185
Alarm, Anti-theft.. .......................... 113
Alcohol in Gasoline ........................ 248
Aluminum Wheels, Cleaning ........ 206-
Antifreeze ....................................... 161
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
Indicator Light ..................... 45, 138
Operation .................................... 136
Anti-theft Steering Column Lock .. 60
Anti-theft System ........................... 113
Appearance Care ........................... 203
Audio Panel. ...................................... 82
Audio System ................................... 94
Index
Automatic Car Washes ................. 204
Automatic Speed Control.. .............. 55
IB
Back-up Lamp Replacement.. ....... 198
Battery
Charging System
Indicator.. .......................... 44, 227
Jump Starting ............................. 220
Maintenance ............................... 177
Specifications ............................. 245
Before Driving ............................... 115
Belts, Seat ........................................... 8
Beverage Holder .............................. 81
Body Repair .................................... 210
Brakes ............................................. 136
Anti-lock System (ABS) ............ 137
Break-in, New Linings .............. 116
Fluid ............................................ 170
Light, Burned-out ...................... 198
Parking .......................................... 80
System Indicator .......................... 44
Wear Indicators, Disc ............... 136
CONTINUED
Index
Brakes,ABS Certification Label ......................... 242 Vinyl ............................................ 207
Operation .................................... 137 Chains ............................................. 191 Windows ..................................... 208
System Indicator .................. 44, 139 Change Oil Climate Control System .................. 86
Braking System .............................. 136 Howto ......................................... 159 Clutch Fluid .................................... 171
Break-in, New Car ......................... 116 When to ....................................... 146 CO in the Exhaust ......................... 250
Brightness Control, Instruments ... 52 Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 213 Cold Weather, Starting in ............. 132
Brights, Headlights ......................... 51 Changing Engine Coolant.. ........... 163 Compact Spare Tire ....................... 212
Bulb Replacement... ....................... 192 Charging System Indicator .... 44, 227 Controls, Instruments and .............. 41
Back-up Lights ........................... 198 Check Engine Light ................ 45, 228 Covertible Top ................................. 71
Brake Lights ............................... 198 Checking Closing the Convertible Top ...... 7 4
Headlights .................................. 195 Battery Condition ...................... 177 Convertible Top Cover. ............... 76
License Plate Lights .................. 200 Brake Fluid ................................. 170 Maintenance ................................. 77
Parking Lights ........................... 196 Clutch Fluid ................................ 171 Opening the Covertible Top ....... 71
Side Marker Lights ................... 198 Drive Belt.. .................................. 184 Coolant
Specifications ............................. 245 Engine Coolant.. ......................... 120 Adding ......................................... 161
Turn Signal Lights ..................... 196 Engine Oil.. ................................. 119 Checking ..................................... 120
Bulbs, Halogen ............................... 194 Fuses ........................................... 232 Proper Solution .......................... 161
Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 168 Temperature Gauge .................... 47
c Checklist, Before Driving ............. 115 Corrosion Protection ..................... 208
Cleaner, Air .................................... 172 Crankcase Emission Control
Cables, Jump Starting With .......... 220 Cleaning .......................................... 203 System ......................................... 250
Capacities Chart. ............................ 244 Aluminum Wheels ..................... 206 Cruise Control Operation ............... 55
Carbon Monoxide Hazard .............. 39 Exterior ....................................... 204 Customer Relations
Cargo, Carrying ............................. 124 Interior ........................................ 207 Information ................................. 254
CAUTION, Explanation of ............... ii Leather ........................................ 207
CD Changer. ................................... 107 Seat Belts .................................... 207
II
Index
D In Bad Weather. ......................... 140 Malfunction Indicator
In Foreign Countries ................. 249 Lamp ................................. 45, 228
DANGER, Explanation of.. ............... ii Oil Pressure Indicator ......... 44, 226
Dashboard ........................................ 42 E Oil, What Kind to Use ............... 157
Daytime Running Lights ................. 52 Overheating ................................ 223
Dead Battery, What to Do ............ 220 Economy, Fuel ............................... 121 Specifications ............................. 244
Defects, Reporting Safety ............. 258 Emergencies on the Road ............. 211 Engine Cover, Opening the .......... 118
Defrosting the Windows ................. 91 Battery, Jump Starting .............. 220 Ethanol in Gasoline ....................... 248
Dimensions ..................................... 244 Changing a Flat Tire ................. 213 Evaporative Emission Controls .... 250
Dimming the Headlights ................ 51 Charging System Indicator ...... 227 Exhaust Fumes ................................ 39
Dipstick Checking the Fuses ................... 232 Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat
Engine Oil.. ................................. 119 Closing the Convertible Top .... 230 Belts by ......................................... 17
Directional Signals ........................... 53 Low Oil Pressure Indicator ...... 226 Exterior, Cleaning the ................... 204
Disabled, Towing Your Car If ...... 238 Malfunction Indicator Lamp .... 228
Disc Brake Wear Indicators ......... 136 Overheated Engine ................... 223 F
Disposal of Used Oil.. .................... 160 Emergency Brake ............................ 80
Do Not Tow a Trailer .................... 141 Emergency Flashers ....................... 79 Fabric, Cleaning ............................. 207
Doors Emission Controls ......................... 250 Fan, Interior ...................................... 86
Locking and Unlocking ............... 62 Engine Features, Comfort and
Monitor Light.. ............................. 45 Check Engine Light ............ 45, 228 Convenience ................................. 85
Power Door Locks ....................... 62 Compartment, Checking Filling the Fuel Tank ..................... 117
DOT Tire Quality Grading ........... 246 in the ....................................... 118
Downshifting, 6-speed Manual Coolant ........................................ 120
Transmission .............................. 134 Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 4 7
Driving ............................................ 129 Drive Belt. ................................... 184
Economy ..................................... 121 CONTINUED
Ill
Index
Filters
Oil ................................................ 159
Flashers, Hazard Warning .............. 79
Flat Tire, Changing a .................... 213
Fluids
Brake ........................................... 170
Clutch .......................................... 171
Manual Transmission ............... 168
Windshield Washer ................... 167
FM Stereo Radio Reception ......... 100
Foreign Countries, Driving in ...... 249
Four-way Flashers ........................... 79
Front End, Towing by Emergency
W reeker ...................................... 238
Fuel .................................................. 116
Fill Door and Cap ....................... 117
Gauge ............................................ 48
Octane Requirement.. ............... 116
Oxygenated ................................ 248
Reserve Indicator ......................... 46
Tank, Filling the ......................... 117
Fuel Mileage, Improving ............... 121
Fuel Station Procedures ............... 117
Fuses, Checking the ...................... 232
IV
G
Gasohol ........................................... 248
Gasoline .......................................... 116
Fuel Reserve Indicator. ............... 46
Gauge ............................................ 48
Octane Requirement ................. 116
Oxygenated Fuels ...................... 248
Tank, Filling the ......................... 117
Gauges .............................................. 47
Engine Coolant Temperature .... 47
Fuel ................................................ 48
Gearshift Lever Positions
6-speed Manual
Transmission .......................... 133
Glass Cleaning ............................... 208
IH
Halogen Headlight Bulbs .............. 194
Hazard Warning Flashers ............... 79
Headlights
Daytime Running Lights ............. 52
High Beam Indicator ................... 46
High Beams, Turning on ............ 51
Low Beams, Turning on ............. 51
Reminder Tone ............................ 51
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 195
Turning on .................................... 51
Heating and Cooling System .......... 86
High Altitude, Starting at.. ............ 132
High-Low Beam Switch .................. 51
High Speed, Shifting at ................. 134
Hood Latch ..................................... 17 4
Hood, Opening the ........................ 118
Hot Coolant, Warning about ........ 161
Hydraulic Clutch ............................ 171
Hydroplaning .................................. 141
I
Identification Number,
Vehicle ........................................ 242
If Your Car has to be Towed ........ 238
Ignition
Keys ............................................... 58
Switch ............................................ 60
Timing Control System ............. 251
Indicator Lights, Instrument
Panel .............................................. 43
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 185
Inside Mirror .................................... 79
Index
Inspection, Tire .............................. 187 Indicator ........................................ 43 Meters, Gauges ................................ 4 7
Instrument Panel ............................. 42 Parking ........................................ 198 Methanol in Gasoline .................... 248
Instrument Panel Brightness ......... 52 Turn Signal.. ............................... 196 Mirrors, Adjusting ........................... 79
Interior Cleaning ............................ 207 Loading Cargo ................................ 124
Interior Lights .................................. 83 LOCK (Ignition Key Position) ....... 60 N
Introduction ......................................... i Locks
Anti-theft Steering Column ........ 60 New Vehicle Break-in ................... 116
J Fuel Fill Door ............................. 117 Normal Shift Speeds ...................... 134
Power Door .................................. 62 NOTICE, Explanation of ................... ii
Jacking Up the Car ........................ 213 Trunk ............................................ 66 Numbers, Identification ................ 242
Jack, Tire ........................................ 213 Low Coolant Level.. ....................... 120
Jump Starting ................................. 220 Lower Gear, Downshifting to a .... 134 0
Low Fuel Indicator .......................... 46
IK Low Oil Pressure Indicator .... 44, 226 Octane Requirement, Gasoline .... 116
Lubricant Specifications Chart .... 244 Odometer .......................................... 48
Keys ................................................... 58 Luggage .......................................... 124 Odometer, Trip ................................ 48
Oil
L IM Change, How to ......................... 159
Change, When to ....................... 146
Label, Certification ........................ 242 Maintenance ................................... 143 Checking Engine ....................... 119
Lane Change, Signaling .................. 53 Owner Maintenance Checks .... 155 Pressure Indicator ............... 44, 226
Lap/Shoulder Belts ......................... 33 Record ......................................... 153 Selecting Proper Viscosity
Leaking of Exhaust into Car .......... 39 Schedule ..................................... 146 Chart ....................................... 157
Leather, Cleaning .......................... 207 Malfunction Indicator Lamp .. 45, 228 ON (Ignition Key Position) ............ 61
Lights Manual Transmission .................... 133
Bulb Replacement ..................... 194 Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 168 CONTINUED
v
Index
Opening the Hood ......................... 118 Protecting Small Children .......... 26 Replacing Seat Belts After a
Opening the Trunk .......................... 66 Crash ............................................. 34
Operation in Foreign Countries ... 249 R Restraint, Child ................................ 19
Outside Mirrors ............................... 79 Rotation, Tire ................................. 188
Overheating, Engine ..................... 223 Radiator Overheating .................... 223
Oxygenated Fuels .......................... 248 Radio Sound System ........................ 94 s
Rear End Towing ........................... 238
p Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement ... 198 Safety Belts ......................................... 8
Rear View Mirror ............................. 79 Safety Defects, Reporting ............. 258
Paint Touch-up ............................... 206 Reclining the Seat-backs ................. 68 Safety Labels, Location of .............. 40
Panel Brightness Control ............... 52 Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 134 Safety Messages ................................ ii
Parking Brake .................................. 80 Recovery Vehicle, Emergency Seat Belt, Additional Information .. 33
Parking Lights .................................. 51 Towing ........................................ 238 Lap/Shoulder Belt ....................... 33
PGM-FI System .............................. 251 Reminder Lights .............................. 43 Seat Belt Maintenance ................ 34
Polishing and Waxing ................... 205 Remote Transmitter ........................ 63 Seat Belt System Components ... 33
Power Replacement Information Seat Belts ............................................ 8
Door Locks ................................... 62 Air Cleaner ................................. 172 Cleaning ...................................... 207
Engine, Specifications ............... 244 Engine Coolant.. ......................... 163 Maintenance ................................. 34
Mirrors .......................................... 79 Engine Oil and Filter ................. 159 Reminder Light and Beeper ....... 44
Windows ....................................... 69 Fuses ........................................... 232 System Components .................... 33
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts .......... 17 Light Bulbs ................................. 194 Use During Pregnancy ................ 17
Protecting Adults ............................. 12 Schedule ..................................... 146 Seats, Adjusting the ......................... 68
Additional Safety Precautions .... 18 Spark Plugs ................................. 17 4 Serial Number ................................ 242
Advice for Pregnant Women ...... 17 Tires ............................................ 189 Service Intervals ............................ 146
Protecting Children ......................... 19 Wiper Blades .............................. 180 Service Manual .............................. 259
Protecting Larger Children ........ 29 Service Station Procedures .......... 117
VI
Shifting
The 6-speed Manual
Transmission .......................... 133
Side Marker Lights, Bulb
Replacement in .......................... 198
Signaling Turns ................................ 53
6-speed Manual Transmission
Checking Fluid Level ................ 168
Shifting the ................................. 134
Snow Tires ...................................... 191
Solvent-type Cleaners .................... 204
Sound System ................................... 94
Spare Tire
Inflating ....................................... 212
Specifications ............................. 245
Spark Plugs, Replacing ................. 17 4
Specifications Charts ..................... 244
Speed Control... ................................ 55
Speedometer .................................... 4 7
SRS, Additional Information ........... 35
Additional Safety Precautions .... 38
How the Automatic Seat Belt
Tensioners Work ..................... 37
How the SRS Indicator
Works ........................................ 37
How Your Air bags Work ............ 35
SRS Components ......................... 35
SRS Service ................................... 38
SRS Indicator Light ................... 37, 45
START (Ignition Key Position) ..... 61
Starting the Engine ........................ 131
In Cold Weather at High
Altitude ................................... 132
With a Dead Battery ................. 220
Steam Coming from Engine ......... 223
Steering Wheel
Anti-theft Column Lock .............. 60
Stereo Sound System ...................... 94
Storing Your Car ............................ 202
Stuck Car ........................................ 236
Supplemental Restraint System
Servicing ....................................... 38
SRS Indicator .......................... 37, 45
Tensioners, Seat Belts ................ 37
T
Tachometer ...................................... 4 7
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in ....... 198
Taking Care of the Unexpected .. 211
Technical Descriptions
Emission Control Systems ........ 250
Index
Three Way Catalytic
Converter ................................ 252
Temperature Gauge ........................ 4 7
Tensioners, Seat Belts .................... 37
Three Way Catalytic Converter ... 251
Tire Chains ..................................... 191
Tire, How to Change a Flat .......... 213
Tires ................................................ 185
Air Pressure ............................... 185
Balancing .................................... 188
Checking Wear .......................... 188
Compact Spare Tire .................. 212
DOT Tire Quality Grading ....... 246
Inflation ....................................... 185
Inspection ................................... 187
Replacing .................................... 189
Rotating ....................................... 188
Snow ............................................ 191
Specifications ............................. 245
Technical Information .............. 241
Tools, Tire Changing .................... 213
CONTINUED
VII
Index
Towing Used Oil, How to Dispose of ........ 160 Wheels ............................................ 190
A Trailer, Do Not.. ..................... 141 Alignment and Balance ............. 188
Emergency Wrecker ................. 238 v Cleaning Aluminum Alloys ....... 206
Trailer, Do Not Tow a ................... 141 Wrench ....................................... 213
Transmission Vehicle Dimensions ....................... 244 Windows
Checking Fluid Level, 6-speed Vehicle Identification Number ..... 242 Cleaning ...................................... 208
Manual Transmission ........... 168 Vehicle Storage .............................. 202 Operating the Power ................... 69
Fluid Selection ............................ 168 Ventilation ......................................... 88 Windshield
Identification Number.. ............. 242 VIN .................................................. 242 Cleaning ...................................... 208
Shifting the 6-speed Manual Vinyl Cleaning ................................ 207 Defroster ...................................... 91
Transmission .......................... 133 Viscosity, Oil... ................................ 158 Wipers, Windshield
Treadwear ...................................... 246
Trip Meter ........................................ 48 lw
Changing Blades ........................ 180
Operation ...................................... 53
Trunk ................................................. 66 Worn Tires ..................................... 187
Opening the .................................. 66 Warning Beepers Wrecker, Emergency Towing ...... 238
Open Monitor Light .................... 45 Headlights on ............................... 51
Turn Signals ..................................... 53 Key in Ignition .............................. 61
Seat Belts ...................................... 44
u WARNING, Explanation of .............. ii
Warning Labels, Location of .......... 40
Underside, Cleaning ...................... 208 Warranty Coverages ..................... 257
Unexpected, Taking Care Washer, Windshield
of the ........................................... 211 Checking the Fluid Level ......... 167
Uniform Tire Quality Grading ..... 276 Operation ...................................... 54
Unleaded Gasoline ......................... 116 Washing ....... : .................................. 204
Upholstery Cleaning ...................... 207 Waxing and Polishing ................... 205
VIII
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Service Information Summary
Gasoline:
Premium unleaded gasoline,
pump octane number of 91 or
higher.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
13.2 US gal (50~, 11.0 Imp gal)
Recommended Engine Oil:
API Service SJ "Energy
Conserving" oil, SAE 1 OW-30
viscosity (see page 154 ).
Oil change capacity (including
filter):
5.1 US qt (4.8 fJ , 4.2 Imp qt)
6-speed Manual Transmission
Fluid:
Honda Manual Transmission
Fluid preferred, or an API service
SG, SH or SJ, SAE 1 OW-30 or
10W-40 motor oil as a temporary
replacement (see page 163 ).
Capacity:
1.6 US qt (1.5 Q, 1.3 Imp qt)
Brake Fluid:
Genuine Honda DOT 3 Brake Fluid
preferred, or a DOT 3 or DOT 4
brake fluid as a temporary
replacement (see page 165 ).
Tire Pressure (measured cold):
Front:
32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm 2 )
Rear:
32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm 2 )
Spare Tire Pressure:
Front:
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm 2 )
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