2000 Insight Online Reference Owner's Manual Contents240260280.com/Insight/owners manual.pdf · 2000 Insight Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout

2000 Insight 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

Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................5 Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls ................................................................................................................. 43 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features ............................................................................................. 81 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 117What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 131The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 145 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 197 Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 205This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 231ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 243A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 249 How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...................................................................................................................................................... I

Service Information SummaryA summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

Your Car at a Glance.........................................................................................................2

Owner's Identification Form

Owner's Identification

This Owner's Manual should be considereda permanent part of the car, and shouldremain with the car when it is sold.

The information and specifications includedin this publication were in affect at the timeof approval for printing. Honda Motor Co.,Ltd. reserves the right, however, todiscontinue or change specifications ordesign at any time without notice andwith out incurring any obligation whatsoever.

OWNER

ADDRESSSTREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE /POSTAL CODE

V. I. N.

DELIVERY DATE(Date sold to original retail purchaser)

DEALER NAME DEALER NO.

ADDRESSSTREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/POSTAL CODE

OWNER'S SIGNATURE

DEALER'S SIGNATURE

Introduction

Congratulations ! Your selection of a 2000 Honda Insight was a wiseinvestment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.

One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is toread this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls andconvenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner's manual in your car so youcan refer to it at any time.

Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty bookletthoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rightsand responsibilities.

Maintaining your car according to the schedules given in this manual helpsto keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. Whenyour car needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's staff isspecially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Honda. YourHonda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answerany questions and concerns.

As you read this manual, you willfind information that is preceded by

symbol. Thisinformation is intended to help youavoid damage to your Honda, otherproperty, or the environment.

a NOTICE

A Few Words About Safety

Your safety, and the safety of others,is very important. And operating thiscar safely is an importantresponsibility.

To help you make informeddecisions about safety, we haveprovided operating procedures andother information on labels and inthis manual. This information alertsyou to potential hazards that couldhurt you or others.

Of course, it is not practical orpossible to warn you about all thehazards associated with operating ormaintaining your car. You must useyour own good judgement.

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 and one of

three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.These signal words mean:

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLYHURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLYHURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don't followinstructions.

Safety Headings — such as Important Safety Reminders or ImportantSafety 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 itcarefully.

Your Car at a Glance

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES(P.75)

FCD SELECT BUTTON(P.52)

DOOR LOCK(P.69)

FUEL FILLDOOR RELEASE(P.119)

AUDIO SYSTEM(P.96)DIGITAL CLOCK

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE(P.120)

HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS(P.82, 89)

Your Car at a Glance

MIRROR CONTROLS(P.76)

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES(P.75)

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS(P.59, 61)

HORN

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS(P.61)

HAZARD WARNINGLIGHTS(P.63)

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER(P.63)

4

Driver and Passenger Safety

This section gives you importantinformation about how to protectyourself and your passenger. Itshows you how to use seat beltsproperly. It explains your Supple-mental Restraint System. And it tellsyou how to properly restrain childrenin your car.

Important Safety Precautions.......... 6Your Car's Safety Features.............. 7

Seat Belts........................................ 8Airbags............................................ 9Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10Head Restraints........................... 10Door Locks................................... 10Pre-Drive Safety Checklist......... 11

Protecting Adults............................. 121. Close and Lock the Doors...... 122. Adjust the Front Seats............ 123. Adjust the Seat-Backs............. 134. Fasten and Position the Seat

Belts...................................... 155. Maintain a Proper Sitting

Position................................. 16Advice for Pregnant Women...... 17Additional Safety Precautions.... 18

Protecting Children......................... 19All Children Must Be

Restrained................................ 19Your Car is Not Recommended

for Child Passengers............... 20The Passenger's Airbag Poses

Serious Risks to Children....... 20Additional Safety Precaution...... 22

General Guidelines for UsingChild Seats................................ 22

Protecting Small Children.......... 26Protecting Larger Children........ 29Using Child Seats with

Tethers...................................... 33Additional Information About Your

Seat Belts.................................. 34Seat Belt System Components... 34Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 34Seat Belt Maintenance................ 35

Additional Information AboutYour SRS...................................36

SRS Components......................... 36How Your Airbags Work............ 36How the Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners Work..................... 38How the SRS Indicator Light

Works........................................ 38SRS Service................................... 39Additional Safety Precautions.... 39

Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 40Safety Labels.................................... 41


Important Safety Precautions

You'll find many safetyrecommendations throughout thissection, and throughout this manual.The recommendations on this pageare the ones we consider to be themost important.

Always Wear Your Seat BeltA seat belt is your best protection inall types of collisions. Airbagssupplement seat belts, but airbagsare designed to inflate only in amoderate to severe frontal collision.So even though your car is equippedwith airbags, make sure you andyour passenger always wear yourseat belts, and wear them properly.(See page 15).

Your Car is Not Recommendedfor Child PassengersSince all children are safest in theback seat of a car, and your car doesnot have a back seat, we recommendthat you do not carry a childpassenger. Due to the passenger's

airbag hazard, you should nevercarry an infant in a rear-facing childseat in this car. If a small child whomust be restrained in a forward-facing child seat, or a larger child,must ride in this car, be sure tofollow all instructions and safetywarnings in this manual. (See pages26 and 29.)

Be Aware of Airbag HazardsWhile airbags can save lives, theycan cause serious or fatal injuries tooccupants who sit too close to them,or are not properly restrained.Infants, young children, and shortadults are at the greatest risk. Besure to follow all instructions andwarnings in this manual. (See page7 .)

Don't Drink and DriveAlcohol and driving don't mix. Evenone drink can reduce your ability torespond to changing conditions, andyour reaction time gets worse with

every additional drink. So don't drinkand drive, and don't let your friendsdrink and drive, either.

Control Your SpeedExcessive speed is a major factor incrash injuries and deaths. Generally,the higher the speed the greater therisk, but serious accidents can alsooccur at lower speeds. Never drivefaster than is safe for currentconditions, regardless of themaximum speed posted.

Keep Your Car in Safe ConditionHaving a tire blowout or amechanical failure can be extremelyhazardous. To reduce the possibilityof such problems, check your tirepressures and condition frequently,and perform all regularly scheduledmaintenance. (See page 148 .)


Your Car's Safety Features

(1) Safety Cage(2) Crush Zones(3) Seats & Seat-Backs(4) Head Restraints(5) Collapsible Steering Column(6) Seat Belts(7) Seat Belt Tensioners(8) Airbags(9) Door Locks

Your car is equipped with manyfeatures that work together toprotect you and your passengerduring a crash.

Some safety features do not requireany action on your part. Theseinclude a strong aluminumframework that forms a safety cagearound the passenger compartment;front and rear crush zones that aredesigned to crumple and absorbenergy during a crash; a collapsiblesteering column; and seat belttensioners that automatically tightenthe seat belts in the event of a crash.These safety features are designedto reduce the severity of injuries in acrash. However, you and yourpassenger can't take full advantageof these safety features unless youremain sitting in a proper positionand always wear your seat beltsproperly. In fact, some safetyfeatures can contribute to injuries ifthey are not used properly.



Seat BeltsFor your safety, and the safety ofyour passenger, your car is equippedwith seat belts in both seatingpositions.

Your seat belt system alsoincludes a light on the

instrument panel to remind you andyour passenger to fasten your seatbelts.

Why Wear Seat BeltsSeat belts have proven to be thesingle most effective safety device.

Not wearing a seat belt properlyincreases the chance of seriousinjury or death in a crash, eventhough your car has airbags.

In addition, most states and allCanadian provinces require you towear seat belts.

When properly worn, seat belts:

Keep you connected to the vehicleso you can take advantage of thecar's built-in safety features.

Help protect you in almost everytype of crash, including side andrear impacts and rollovers. (Yourairbag can only be helpful in amoderate to severe frontal

collision.)

Help keep you from being thrownagainst the inside of the vehicleand against other occupants.

Keep you from being thrown outof the vehicle.

Help keep you in a good positionshould the airbags ever deploy. Agood position reduces the risk ofinjury from an inflating airbag, andallows you to get the bestadvantage from the airbag.

Of course, seat belts cannotcompletely protect you in everycrash. But in most cases, seat beltscan reduce your risk of seriousinjury.

What you should do: Always wearyour seat belt, and make sure youwear it properly.


Not wearing a seat belt properlyincreases the chance of seriousinjury or death in a crash, evenif you have airbags.

Be sure you and yourpassenger always wear seatbelts and wear them properly.


Airbags

Your car has a SupplementalRestraint System (SRS) with frontalairbags to help protect the driver anda passenger.

This system also includesan indicator light on the

instrument panel to alert you to apossible problem with the system.

The most important things you needto know about your airbags are:

Airbags do not replace seat belts.The seat belts are the occupants'primary protection in all types ofcollisions. Airbags supplementseat belts by providing extraprotection for occupants' headsand chests.

Airbags offer no protection in sideimpacts, rear impacts, rollovers,or minor collisions. Airbags aredesigned to deploy only during amoderate to severe frontalcollision.

Airbags can pose serious hazards.To do their job, airbags mustinflate with tremendous force andspeed. So while airbags save lives,they can cause serious injuries toadults and larger children who arenot wearing seat belts, are notwearing them properly, are sittingtoo close to the airbag, or are notsitting in a proper position. Infantsand small children are at an evengreater risk of injury or death.

What you should do: Always wearyour seat belt properly, and situpright and as far back as possiblefrom the steering wheel ordashboard.


SRS


Seats & Seat-BacksYour car's seats are designed to keepyou in a comfortable, uprightposition so you can take fulladvantage of the protection offeredby seat belts and the energyabsorbing materials in the seats.

How you adjust your seats and seat-backs can also affect your safety. Forexample, sitting too close to thesteering wheel or dashboardincreases the risk of you or yourpassenger being injured by strikingthe inside of the car, or by aninflating airbag.

Reclining a seat-back too far reducesthe seat belt's effectiveness andincreases the chance that the seat'soccupant will slide under the seatbelt in a crash and be seriouslyinjured.

What you should do: Move the seatsas far back as possible, and keepadjustable seat-backs in an uprightposition whenever the car is moving.

Head RestraintsHead restraints can help protect youfrom whiplash and other injuries.

Door LocksKeeping your doors locked reducesthe chance of being thrown out ofthe car during a crash. It also helpsprevent occupants from accidentallyopening a door and falling out, andoutsiders from unexpectedly openingyour doors.



Pre-Drive Safety ChecklistTo make sure you and yourpassenger get the maximumprotection from your car's safetyfeatures, check the following eachtime before you drive away:

You and any adult passenger, or alarger child who has outgrownchild seats, are wearing your seatbelts and wearing them properly(see page 15).

A small child riding in a forward-facing child seat is properlyrestrained (see page 26).

Occupants are sitting upright andas far back as possible from thesteering wheel and dashboard(see page 12 ).

Seat-backs are upright (see page13).

Both doors are closed and locked(see page 12 ).

All cargo is properly stored orsecured (see page 128).

The rest of this section gives moredetailed information about how youcan maximize your safety.

Remember, however, that no safetysystem can prevent all injuries ordeaths that can occur in severecrashes, even when seat belts areproperly worn and the airbags deploy.


Protecting Adults

IntroductionThe following pages provideinstructions on how to properlyprotect adult occupants.

These instructions also apply to achild whom you have decided islarge enough and mature enough toride as a passenger. (See page 29 forimportant additional guidelines onhow to properly protect largerchildren.)

1. Close and Lock the DoorsAfter everyone has entered the car,be sure the doors are closed andlocked.

Your car has a door monitor light onthe instrument panel to indicatewhen a specific door is not tightlyclosed.

For safety, locking the doors reducesthe chance that a passenger,especially a child, will open a doorwhile the car is moving andaccidentally fall out. It also reducesthe chance of someone being thrownout of the car during a crash.

For security, locked doors canprevent an outsider fromunexpectedly opening a door whenyou come to a stop.

See page 69 for how to lock thedoors.

2.Adjust the Front Seats

Any driver who sits too close to thesteering wheel is at risk of beingseriously injured or killed by strikingthe steering wheel, or from beingstruck by an inflating airbag during acrash.


Protecting Adults

To reduce the chance of injury, wearyour seat belt properly, sit uprightwith your back against the seat, andmove the seat as far back as possiblefrom the steering wheel while stillmaintaining full control of the car.Also make sure your passengermoves the seat as far to the rear aspossible.

Most shorter drivers can get farenough away from the steeringwheel and still reach the pedals.However, if you are concerned aboutsitting too close, we recommend thatyou investigate whether some typeof adaptive equipment may help.

Once your seat is adjusted correctly,rock it back and forth to make surethe seat is locked in position.

See page 74 for how to adjust theseats.

3.Adjust the Seat-Backs

Adjust the driver's seat-back to acomfortable, upright position,leaving ample space between yourchest and the airbag cover in thecenter of the steering wheel. If yousit too close to the steering wheel,you could be injured if the airbaginflates.

CONTINUED


Sitting too close to an airbagcan result in serious injury ordeath if the airbags inflate.

Always sit as far back from theairbags as possible.

Protecting Adults

A passenger should also adjust theseat-back to an upright position, butas far from the dashboard aspossible. A passenger who sits tooclose to the dashboard could beinjured if the airbag inflates.

Reclining a seat-back so that theshoulder part of the belt no longerrests against the occupant's chestreduces the protective capability ofthe belt. It also increases the chanceof sliding under the belt in a crashand being seriously injured. Thefarther a seat-back is reclined, thegreater the risk of injury.

See page 74 for how to adjust seat-backs.


Reclining the seat-back too farcan result in serious injury ordeath in a crash.

Adjust the seat-back to anupright position and sit wellback in the seat.

Protecting Adults

4.Fasten and Position the SeatBelts

Insert the latch plate into the buckle,then tug on the belt to make sure thebelt is securely latched. Also checkthat the belt is not twisted, because atwisted belt can cause seriousinjuries in a crash.

Position the lap part of the belt aslow as possible across your hips,then pull up on the shoulder part ofthe belt so the lap part fits snugly.This lets your strong pelvic bonestake the force of a crash and reducesthe chance of internal injuries.

If necessary, pull up on the belt againto remove any slack from theshoulder part, then check that thebelt rests across the center of yourchest and over your shoulder. This

spreads the forces of a crash overthe strongest bones in your upperbody.

Never place the shoulder portion of alap/shoulder belt under your arm orbehind your back. This could causevery serious injuries in a crash.

CONTINUED


Improperly positioning the seatbelts can cause serious injuryor death in a crash.

Make sure all seat belts areproperly positioned beforedriving.

Protecting Adults

If a seat belt does not seem to workas it should, it may not protect theoccupant in a crash. No one shouldsit in a seat with an inoperative seatbelt. Anyone using a seat belt that isnot working properly can beseriously injured or killed. Have yourHonda dealer check the belt as soonas possible.

See page 34 for additionalinformation about your seat beltsystem and how to take care of yourbelts.

5.Maintain a Proper SittingPosition

After occupants have adjusted theirseats and put on seat belts, it is veryimportant that they continue to situpright, well back in their seats, withtheir feet on the floor, until the car isparked and the engine is off.

Sitting improperly can increase thechance of injury during a crash. Forexample, if an occupant slouches,lies down, turns sideways, sitsforward, leans forward or sideways,or puts one or both feet up, thechance of injury during a crash isgreatly increased.

In addition, an occupant who is out ofposition can be seriously or fatallyinjured by striking interior parts ofthe car, or by being struck by aninflating airbag.


Protecting Adults

Remember, to get the bestprotection from your car's airbagsand other safety features, you mustsit properly and wear your seat beltproperly.

Advice for Pregnant Women

Because protecting the mother is thebest way to protect her unborn child,a pregnant woman should alwayswear a seat belt whenever she drivesor rides in a vehicle.

Remember to keep the lap portion ofthe belt as low as possible acrossyour hips.

Pregnant women should also situpright and as far back as possiblefrom the steering wheel ordashboard. This will reduce the riskof injuries to both the mother andher unborn child that can be causedby a crash or an inflating airbag.

Each time you have a check-up, askyour doctor if it's okay for you todrive.


Sitting improperly or out ofposition can result in seriousinjury or death in a crash.

Always sit upright, well back inthe seat, with your feet on thefloor.

Protecting Adults

Additional Safety PrecautionsTwo people should never use thesame seat belt. If they do, theycould be very seriously injured in acrash.

Do not put any accessories on seatbelts. Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt canseverely compromise theprotective capability of the seatbelt and increase the chance ofserious injury in a crash.

Do not place hard or sharp objectsbetween yourself and an airbag.Carrying hard or sharp objects onyour lap, or driving with a pipe orother sharp object in your mouth,can result in injuries if yourairbags inflate.

Do not attach or place objects onthe front airbag covers. Any objectattached to or placed on the coversmarked "SRS AIRBAG" in thecenter of the steering wheel andon top of the dashboard couldinterfere with the proper operationof the airbags. Or, if the airbagsinflate, the objects could bepropelled inside the car and hurtsomeone.

Keep your hands and arms awayfrom the airbag covers. If yourhands or arms are close to theairbag covers in the center of thesteering wheel and on top of thedashboard, they could be injured ifthe airbags inflate.


Protecting Children

Children depend on adults to protectthem. However, despite their bestintentions, many parents and otheradults may not know how to properlyprotect young passengers.

So if you have children, or if you everneed to drive with a grandchild orother children in your car, be sure toread this section.

All Children Must Be RestrainedEach year, many children are injuredor killed in vehicle crashes becausethey are either unrestrained or notproperly restrained. In fact, vehicleaccidents are the number one causeof death of children ages 12 andunder.

To reduce the number of childdeaths and injuries, every state andCanadian province requires thatinfants and children be restrainedwhenever they ride in a vehicle.

Any child who is too small to wear aseat belt should be properlyrestrained in a child seat. (See page26.)

A larger child should always berestrained with a seat belt. (See page29.)


Children who are unrestrainedor improperly restrained can beseriously injured or killed in acrash.

Any child too small for a seatbelt should be properlyrestrained in a child seat. Alarger child should be properlyrestrained with a seat belt.

Protecting Children

Your Car is Not Recommendedfor Child PassengersWe strongly recommend that you donot carry any child in this car.One reason is that your car does nothave a back seat, and accidentstatistics show that a child of anysize or age is safer when they areproperly restrained in the back seatof a vehicle.

In addition, your car has a passenger'sairbag which poses serious risks tochildren — particularly infants andsmall children.

The Passenger's Airbag PosesSerious Risks to ChildrenAirbags have been designed to helpprotect adults in a moderate tosevere frontal collision. To do this,the passenger's airbag is quite large,and it inflates with tremendousspeed.

As a result, we urge you to followthese guidelines.

InfantsNever put a rear-facing child seat inthe front seat of a car equipped witha passenger's airbag. If the airbaginflates, it can hit the back of thechild seat with enough force to kill orvery seriously injure an infant.

Small ChildrenPlacing a forward-facing child seat inthe front seat of a car equipped witha passenger's airbag can behazardous. If the vehicle seat is toofar forward, or the child's head isthrown forward during a collision, aninflating airbag can strike the childwith enough force to kill or veryseriously injure a small child. If asmall child must ride in this car,follow the instructions on page 23 .

Larger ChildrenChildren who have outgrown childseats are also at risk of being injuredor killed by an inflating passenger'sairbag. If a larger child must ride inthis car, see page 29 for importantguidelines on how to decide whethera child is large enough and matureenough to ride as a passenger, andhow to properly protect the child.


Protecting Children

U.S. ModelsTo remind you of the passenger'sairbag hazards, your car has warninglabels hanging from the glove boxand on the driver's and passenger'svisors. Please read and follow theinstructions on these labels.

Canadian ModelsTo remind you of the airbag hazards,your car has warning labels on thedriver's and passenger's visors.Please read and follow theinstructions on these labels.


CAUTIONTO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY:FOR MAXIMUM SAFETY PROTECTION INALL TYPES OF CRASHES, YOU MUSTALWAYS WEAR YOUR SAFETY BELT.DO NOT INSTALL REARWARD-FACINGCHILD SEATS IN ANY FRONTPASSENGER SEAT POSITION.DO NOT SIT OR LEAN UNNECESSARILYCLOSE TO THE AIR BAG.DO NOT PLACE ANY OBJECTS OVER THEAIR BAG OR BETWEEN THE AIR BAGAND YOURSELF.SEE THE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR FURTHERINFORMATION AND EXPLANATIONS.

PRECAUTION:POUR EVITER DES BLESSURES GRAVES:POUR PROFITER D'UNE PROTECTIONMAXIMALE LORS D'UNE COLLISION BOUCLEZTOUJOURS VOTRE CEINTURE DE SECURITE.N'lNSTALLEZ JAMAIS UN SIEGE POURENFANTS FAISANT FACE A L'ARRIERE SURLE SIEGE DU PASSAGER AVANT.NE VOUS APPUYEZ PAS ET NE VOUS ASSEYEZPAS PRES DU COUSSIN GONFLABLE.NE DEPOSEZ AUCUN OBJET SUR LE COUSSINGONFLABLE OU ENTRE LE COUSSINGONFLABLE ET VOUS.LISEZ LE GUIDE UTILISATEUR POUR DEPLUS AMPLES RENSEIGNEMENTS.

Protecting Children

Additional Safety PrecautionDo not leave a child alone in yourcar. Leaving a child without adultsupervision is illegal in most statesand Canadian provinces and canbe very hazardous. For example, asmall child left in a car on a hotday can die from heatstroke. Achild left alone with the key in theignition can accidentally set thecar in motion, possibly injuringthemselves or others.

General Guidelines for UsingChild SeatsAs discussed on page 20, becauseyour car does not have a back seat,and because of the passenger'sairbag hazard, we stronglyrecommend that you do not carry asmall child as a passenger in this car.

However, if you must carry a smallchild in this car, the child must beproperly restrained in a child seat.

The following pages give generalguidelines for selecting and installinga child seat. See page 26 foradditional information.

Selecting a Child SeatTo provide proper protection, a childseat should meet threerequirements:

1. The child seat should meet safetystandards. The child seat shouldmeet Federal Motor VehicleSafety Standard 213 (FMVSS 213)or Canadian Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard 213 (CMVSS 213). Lookfor the manufacturer's statementof compliance on the box and seat.


Protecting Children

2. The child seat should be of theproper type and size to fit the child.

Small Children: A child who can situp without support should berestrained in a forward-facing childseat. See page 26 for additionalinformation on protecting smallchildren.

3. The child seat should fit thepassenger's seat.

Due to variations in the design ofchild seats, vehicle seats, and seatbelts, all child seats will not fit allseating positions in all cars.

However, Honda is confident thatone or more child seat models can fitand be properly installed in this car.

Before purchasing a child seat, werecommend that parents test thechild seat to make sure it fitsproperly in the passenger's seat. If apreviously purchased child seat doesnot fit, you will need to buy adifferent one that will fit.

CONTINUED


Protecting Children

Placing a Child SeatThis page briefly summarizesHonda's recommendations on whereto place a child seat in your car.

Passenger's SeatInfants: Never in the passenger's

seat, due to the passenger's airbaghazard.

Small children: Not recommended,due to the passenger's airbaghazard. If a small child must ridein this car, move the vehicle seatto the rear-most position andsecure a front-facing child seatwith the seat belt, (see page 27).


Airbags Pose SeriousRisks to Children

The passenger's airbag inflateswith enough force to kill orseriously injure an infant in arear-facing child seat.

A small child in a forward-facingchild seat is also at risk. If thevehicle seat is too far forward,or the child's head is thrownforward during a collision, aninflating airbag can kill orseriously injure the child.

If a small child must ride in thiscar, follow the instructionsprovided in this section.

Protecting Children

Installing a Child SeatAfter selecting a proper child seat,there are three main steps ininstalling the seat:

1. Secure the child seat to the carwith a seat belt. All child seatsmust be secured to the car withthe lap part of a lap/shoulder belt.A child whose seat is not properlysecured to the car can beendangered in a crash. See page27 for instructions on how tosecure a forward-facing child seatin this car.

2. Make sure the child seat is firmlysecured. After installing a childseat, push and pull the seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure.

To provide security during normaldriving maneuvers as well as duringa collision, we recommend thatparents secure a child seat as firmlyas possible.

However, a child seat does not needto be "rock solid." It may be difficultto install a child seat so that it doesnot move at all. Some side-to-side orback-and-forth movement can beexpected and should not reduce thechild seat's effectiveness.

3. Secure the child in the child seat.Make sure the child is properlystrapped in the child seataccording to the child seat maker'sinstructions. A child who is notproperly secured in a child seatcan be thrown out of the seat in acrash and seriously injured.

Storing a Child SeatWhen you are not using a child seat,either remove it and store it in a safeplace, or make sure it is properlysecured. An unsecured child seat canbe thrown around the car during acrash or sudden stop and injuresomeone.


Protecting Children

Protecting Small Children

The passenger's airbag posesserious risks to small children. If thevehicle seat is too far forward, or thechild's head is thrown forwardduring a collision, or the child isunrestrained or improperlyrestrained, an inflating airbag can killor seriously injure the child.

For these reasons, we recommendthat you do not carry a small child asa passenger.

If you decide to carry a small child inthis car, follow the instructions andguidelines below.

Child Seat TypeA child who can sit up withoutsupport, and who fits within the childseat maker's weight and heightlimits, should be restrained in aforward-facing, upright child seat.

Of the different seats available, werecommend those that have a five-point harness system as shown.

We also recommend that a smallchild stay in the child seat as long aspossible, until the child reaches theweight or height limit for the seat.


Improperly placing a forward-facing child seat in the frontseat can result in serious injuryor death if the airbags inflate.

If you must place a forward-facing child seat in front, movethe vehicle seat as far back aspossible and properly restrainthe child.

Protecting Children

Child Seat InstallationThe passenger's seat belt has alocking mechanism that must beactivated to secure a child seat.

The following pages provideinstructions and tips on how tosecure a forward-facing child seatwith this type of seat belt.

1. Move the vehicle seat to the rear-most position. Moving the seat asfar back as possible reduces thechance of a child being injured orkilled if the passenger's airbaginflates. (See page 74 forinstructions on how to adjust theseat.)

2. With the child seat in position,route the belt through the childseat according to the seat maker'sinstructions, then insert the latchplate into the buckle.

3. To activate the lockable retractor,slowly pull the shoulder part of thebelt all the way out until it stops,then let the belt feed back into theretractor (you might hear aclicking noise as the belt retracts).

4. After the belt has retracted, tug onit. If the belt is locked, you will notbe able to pull it out. If you can pullthe belt out, it is not locked andyou will need to repeat these steps.


CONTINUED

Protecting Children

5. After confirming that the belt islocked, grab the shoulder part ofthe belt near the buckle and pullup to remove any slack from thelap part of the belt. Remember, ifthe lap part of the belt is not tight,the child seat will not be secure. Itmay help to put weight on thechild seat, or push on the back ofthe seat, while pulling up on thebelt.

6. Push and pull the child seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure enough tostay upright during normal drivingmaneuvers. If the child seat is notsecure, unlatch the belt, allow it toretract fully, then repeat thesesteps.

To deactivate the lockingmechanism in order to remove achild seat, unlatch the buckle,unroute the seat belt, and let the beltfully retract.

Additional Precautions for SmallChildren

Never hold a small child on yourlap. If you are not wearing a seatbelt in a crash, you could bethrown forward into thedashboard and crush the child.

If you are wearing a seat belt, thechild can be torn from your armsduring a crash. For example, ifyour car crashes into a parkedvehicle at 30 mph (48 km/h), a30-lb (14 kg) child will become a900-lb (410 kg) force, and you willnot be able to hold on.

Never put a seat belt over yourselfand a child. During a crash, thebelt could press deep into the childand cause very serious injuries.


Protecting Children

Protecting Larger ChildrenThe passenger's airbag posesserious risks to children, includingthose who have outgrown child seats.If the vehicle seat is too far forward,or the child's head is thrown forwardduring a collision, or the child isunrestrained or out of position, aninflating airbag can kill or seriouslyinjure the child.

For these reasons, we recommendthat you do not carry a childpassenger.

With this in mind, following aresome guidelines to help you decidewhen a given child may ride in yourcar.

The Child Should Wear a Seat BeltWhen a child reaches therecommended weight or height limitfor a forward-facing child seat, thechild should wear a lap/shoulder belt.

If a child is too short for the shoulderpart of the belt to properly fit, werecommend that the child use abooster seat until they are tallenough to use the seat belt without abooster.

The following pages giveinstructions on how to check properseat belt fit, what kind of boosterseat to use if one is needed, andimportant precautions for a childwho must ride in this car.

Checking Seat Belt Fit

To determine if a lap/shoulder beltproperly fits a child, have the childput on the seat belt. Follow theinstructions on page 15. Then checkhow the belt fits.

If the shoulder part of the belt restsover the child's collarbone andagainst the center of the chest, asshown, the child is large enough towear the seat belt.


Allowing a larger child to sitimproperly in the front seat canresult in injury or death if theairbags inflate.

If a larger child must sit in front,make sure the child moves theseat as far back as possibleand wears the seat belt properly.

CONTINUED

Protecting Children

However, if the belt touches orcrosses the child's neck, the childneeds to use a booster seat.

Do not let a child wear a seat beltacross the neck. This could result inserious neck injuries during a crash.

Do not let a child put the shoulderpart of a seat belt behind the back orunder the arm. This could causevery serious injuries during a crash.It also increases the chance that thechild will slide under the belt in acrash and be injured.

Do not put any accessories on a seatbelt. Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt, severelycompromise the protective capabilityof the seat belt and increase thechance of serious injury in a crash.

Two children should never use thesame seat belt. If they do, they couldbe very seriously injured in a crash.

Using a Booster Seat

If a child needs a booster seat, werecommend choosing a style thatallows the child to use the lap/shoulder belt directly, without ashield, as shown.

Whichever style you select, followthe booster seat maker's instructions.


Protecting Children

A child may continue using a boosterseat until the tops of the ears areeven with the top of the seat-back. Achild of this height should be tallenough to use the lap/shoulder beltwithout a booster.

When Can a Larger Child Ride in thisCarChildren vary widely. And while agemay be one indicator of when a childcan safely ride in this car, there areother important factors you shouldconsider.

Physical SizePhysically, a child must be largeenough for the lap/shoulder belt toproperly fit over the hips, chest, andshoulder (see pages 15 and 29). Ifthe seat belt does not fit properly,the child should use a booster seat.

MaturityTo safely ride in this car, a childmust be able to follow the rules,including sitting properly andwearing the seat belt properlythroughout a ride.

CONTINUED


Protecting Children

If you decide that a child can safelyride in this car, be sure to:

Carefully read the owner's manualand make sure you understand allseat belt instructions and all safetyinformation.

Move the vehicle seat to the rear-most position.

Have the child sit up straight, backagainst the seat, and feet on ornear the floor.

Check that the child's seat belt isproperly positioned and secured.

Supervise the child. Even a maturechild sometimes needs to bereminded to fasten the seat belt orsit properly.


Protecting Children

Using Child Seats with Tethers

Your car has a tether anchoragepoint on the trunk lining for securinga tether-style child seat to the car.Since a tether can provide additionalsecurity, we recommend using atether whenever one is required oravailable.

Attach the tether strap hook to thetether anchorage point as shown inthe illustration and tighten the strapaccording to the child seat maker'sinstructions.


Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt System ComponentsYour seat belt system includes lap/shoulder belts in both seatingpositions.The seat belts are also equipped withautomatic seat belt tensioners.

The system also includes alight on the instrument

panel to remind you and yourpassenger to fasten your belts. If thedriver's seat belt is not fastenedbefore the ignition is turned ON (II),the light will come on and a beeperwill also sound. The beeper will stopafter a few seconds, but the light willstay on until the driver's seat belt isfastened.

Lap/Shoulder Belt

This seat belt has a single belt thatgoes over your shoulder, across yourchest and across your hips.To fasten the belt, insert the latchplate into the buckle, then tug on thebelt to make sure the buckle islatched.To unlock the belt, push the redPRESS button on the buckle. Guidethe belt across your body to the doorpillar. After exiting the car, be surethe belt is out of the way and will not

get closed in the door.

Both seat belts have an emergencylocking retractor. In normal driving,the retractor lets you move freely inyour seat while it keeps sometension on the belt.During a collision or sudden stop,the retractor automatically locks thebelt to help restrain your body.

The passenger's seat belt has anadditional locking mechanism thatmust be activated to secure a childseat. (See page 27 for instructions onhow to secure a forward-facing childseat with this type of belt.)

If the shoulder part of the belt ispulled all the way out, the lockingmechanism will activate. The beltwill retract, but it will not allow thepassenger to move freely.


Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

To deactivate the lockingmechanism, unlatch the buckle andlet the seat belt fully retract. Torefasten the belt, pull it out only asfar as needed.

See page 15 for instructions on howto wear the lap/shoulder beltproperly.

Seat Belt MaintenanceFor safety, you should check thecondition of your seat belts regularly.

Pull each belt out fully and look forfrays, cuts, burns, and wear. Checkthat the latches work smoothly andthat the lap/shoulder belts retracteasily. Any belt not in good conditionor not working properly will notprovide good protection and shouldbe replaced as soon as possible.

U.S. ModelsHonda provides a lifetime warrantyon seat belts. Honda will repair orreplace any seat belt component thatfails to function properly duringnormal use. Please see your HondaWarranty Information booklet fordetails.

If a seat belt is worn during a crash,you should have your dealer inspectthe belt, and replace it if necessary.A belt that has been worn during acrash may not provide the same levelof protection in a subsequent crash.The dealer should also inspect theanchors for damage and replacethem if needed.

For information on how to clean yourseat belts, see page 201.


Not checking or maintainingseat belts can result in seriousinjury or death if the seat beltsdo not work properly whenneeded.

Check your seat belts regularlyand have any problemcorrected as soon as possible.

Additional Information About Your SRS

SRS ComponentsYour Supplemental Restraint System(SRS) includes:

Two front airbags. The driver'sairbag is stored in the center ofthe steering wheel; the frontpassenger's airbag is stored in thedashboard. Both are marked "SRSAIRBAG."

Automatic seat belt tensionersthat tighten the front seat beltsduring a moderate to severefrontal collision.

Sensors that can detect amoderate to severe frontalcollision.

A sophisticated electronic systemthat continually monitors andrecords information about thesensors, the control unit, theairbag activators, driver andpassenger seat belt use, and all

related wiring when the ignition isON (II).

An indicator light on theinstrument panel that alerts you toa possible problem with thesystem (see page 38 ).

Emergency backup power in caseyour car's electrical system isdisconnected in a crash.

How Your Airbags Work

If you ever have a moderate tosevere frontal collision, the sensorswill detect rapid deceleration andsignal the control unit to instantlyinflate the airbags and activate theautomatic seat belt tensioners.



During a crash, your seat belt helpsrestrain your lower body and torso,while the tensioner tightens andlocks the seat belt to help keep youin place. Your airbag provides acushion to help restrain and protectyour head and chest.

Since both airbags use the samesensors, both airbags normallyinflate at the same time. However, itis possible for only one airbag toinflate.

This can occur when the severity ofa collision is at the margin, orthreshold, that determines whetheror not the airbags will deploy. Insuch cases, the seat belt will providesufficient protection, and thesupplemental protection offered bythe airbag would be minimal.

After inflating, the airbagsimmediately deflate, so they won'tinterfere with the driver's visibility,or the ability to steer or operateother controls.

The total time for inflation anddeflation is approximately one-tenthof a second, so fast that mostoccupants are not aware that theairbags deployed until they see themlying in their laps.

After a crash, you may see whatlooks like smoke. This is actuallypowder from the airbag's surface.Although the powder is not harmful,people with respiratory problemsmay experience some temporarydiscomfort. If this occurs, get out ofthe car as soon as it is safe to do so.

U.S. OwnersFor additional information on howyour airbags work, see the booklettitled SRS: What You Need to KnowAbout Airbags that came with yourowner's manual.

Canadian OwnersFor additional information on howyour airbags work, ask your dealerfor a copy of the booklet titled SRS:What You Need to Know About Airbags.



How the Automatic Seat BeltTensioners Work

Your Honda has automatic seat belttensioners for added protectionduring a moderate to severe frontalcollision.

If your airbags inflate, the tensionersimmediately tighten the front seatbelts to help hold the occupants inplace. The belts will remain tightuntil you unbuckle them in thenormal way.

How the SRS Indicator LightWorks

The purpose of the SRSlight is to alert you to a

potential problem with yourSupplemental Restraint System.

When you turn the ignition ON (II),this indicator will light up brieflythen go out. This tells you that thesystem is working properly.

However, if the light comes on at anyother time, you should have thesystem checked by your dealer. Forexample:

If the SRS indicator light does notcome on after you turn the ignitionON (II).

If the light stays on after theengine starts.

• If the light comes on or flashes onand off while you drive.

If you see any of these indications,your airbags and seat belt tensionersmay not deploy when you need them.See your Honda dealer as soon aspossible.


SRS

Ignoring the SRS indicator lightcan result in serious injury ordeath if the airbags do notinflate when needed.

Have your vehicle checked by adealer as soon as possible ifthe SRS light alerts you to apotential problem.


SRS ServiceYour Supplemental Restraint Systemis virtually maintenance-free, andthere are no parts you can safelyservice. However, you must haveyour car serviced if:

Your airbags ever inflate. Theairbags, seat belt tensioners, andcontrol unit must be replaced. Donot try to remove or replace theairbags yourself.This must be done by a Hondadealer or a knowledgeable bodyshop.

The SRS indicator light alerts youto a problem. Take your car to anauthorized Honda dealer as soonas possible. If you ignore thisindication, the airbags might notinflate when you need them.

Additional Safety PrecautionsDo not attempt to deactivate yourairbags. Together, airbags andseat belts provide the bestprotection in a moderate to severefrontal collision.

Do not tamper with SRScomponents or wiring for anyreason. Tampering could causethe airbags to deploy, possiblycausing very serious injury.

See page 126 for further informationand precautions relating to your SRS.


Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Your car's exhaust contains carbonmonoxide gas. You should have noproblem with carbon monoxideentering the car in normal driving ifyou maintain your car properly.Have the exhaust system inspectedfor leaks whenever:

The car is raised for an oil change.You notice a change in the soundof the exhaust.The car was in an accident thatmay have damaged the underside. High levels of carbon monoxide can

collect rapidly in enclosed areas,such as a garage. Do not run theengine with the garage door closed.Even with the door open, run theengine only long enough to move thecar out of the garage.

With the hatch open, air flow canpull exhaust gas into your car'sinterior and create a hazardouscondition. If you must drive with thehatch open, open all the windowsand set the heating and coolingsystem as shown below.

If you must sit in your parked car,even in an unconfined area, with theengine running, adjust the heatingand cooling system as follows:

1. Push the button.2. Select the mode.3. Turn the fan on high speed.4. Set the temperature control to a

comfortable setting.


Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.Breathing it can causeunconsciousness and even killyou.

Avoid any enclosed areas oractivities that expose you tocarbon monoxide.

Safety Labels

These labels are in the locationsshown. They warn you of potentialhazards that could cause seriousinjury. Read these labels carefully.

If a label comes off or becomes hardto read, contact your Honda dealerfor a replacement.

SUN VISOR


HOOD

RADIATOR CAP

BATTERY

U.S. models

GLOVE BOXU.S. models only

Canadian models

42

Instruments and Controls

This section gives information aboutthe controls and displays thatcontribute to the daily operation ofyour Honda. All the essentialcontrols are within easy reach.

Control Locations............................ 44Indicator Lights................................ 45Gauges.............................................. 49

Speedometer................................ 49Display Change Button............... 49Odometer...................................... 49Current Fuel Mileage.................. 51Trip Meters.................................. 51Trip Mileage................................. 52Segment Distance and Fuel

Mileage..................................... 52Lifetime Fuel Mileage................. 53Turning Off the Mileage

Displays..................................... 53Battery Level Gauge ................... 54Charge/Assist Gauge................. 55Fuel Gauge................................... 56Temperature Gauge.................... 56Tachometer.................................. 56Maintenance Required

Indicator.................................... 57Controls Near the Steering

Wheel........................................ 58Headlights.................................... 59Daytime Running Lights............. 60Instrument Panel Brightness..... 60

Turn Signals................................. 61Windshield Wipers...................... 61Windshield Washers................... 62Rear Window Wiper and

Washer...................................... 63Hazard Warning........................... 63Rear Window Defogger.............. 63

Keys and Locks................................ 65Keys............................................... 65Immobilizer System..................... 66Ignition Switch............................. 67Door Locks................................... 69Hatch............................................. 69Remote Transmitter.................... 71

Seat Adjustments............................. 74Front Seat Adjustments.............. 74

Power Windows............................... 75Mirrors.............................................. 76Parking Brake.................................. 77Storage Box...................................... 77Glove Box......................................... 78Beverage Holder.............................. 78Accessory Power Socket................ 79Interior Light.................................... 80


Control Locations


FCD SELECT BUTTON(P. 52)

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES(P. 75)

HEATING/COOLINGCONTROLS(P. 82, 89)

AUDIO SYSTEM(P. 96)DIGITAL CLOCK

DOOR LOCK(P. 69)

FUEL FILLDOOR RELEASE(P. 119)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE(P. 120)

Indicator Lights

The instrument panel has manyindicators to give you importantinformation about your car.

* The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian modelsare noted in the text.


SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINTSYSTEM INDICATOR

ELECTRIC POWERSTEERING INDICATOR

LOW OIL PRESSUREINDICATOR

MALFUNCTIONINDICATOR LAMP

AUTO IDLE STOPINDICATOR

MAINTENANCEREQUIRED INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATORIMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR LOW FUEL INDICATOR

IMA SYSTEM INDICATOR

SHIFT UP/SHIFT DOWNINDICATORS

ANTI-LOCK BRAKESYSTEM (ABS)INDICATOR*

DOOR-OPEN INDICATOR

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKESYSTEM INDICATOR*

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

TURN SIGNAL AND HAZARDWARNING INDICATORS

Indicator Lights

Seat Belt Reminder Light

This indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). It is areminder to you and your passengersto protect yourselves by fasteningthe seat belts. A beeper also soundsif you have not fastened your seatbelt.

If you do not fasten your seat belt,the beeper will stop after a fewseconds but the light stays on untilyou do. Both the light and the beeperstay off if you fasten your seat beltbefore turning on the ignition.

Charging SystemIndicator

If this light comes on when theengine is running, the battery is notbeing charged. For completeinformation, see page 219 .

Low Oil PressureIndicator

The engine can be severely damagedif this light flashes or stays on whenthe engine is running. For completeinformation, see page 218.

Supplemental RestraintSystem Indicator

This indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). If itcomes on at any other time, itindicates a problem in thesupplemental restraint system. Forcomplete information, see page 38.

Shift Up/Shift Down IndicatorsSee page 137.

Auto Idle Stop IndicatorSee page 135.

IMA System IndicatorThis indicator normally comes on fora few seconds when you turn theignition switch ON (II). If it comes

on at any other time, it indicates aproblem in the Integrated MotorAssist (IMA) system. Have thevehicle checked by the dealer assoon as possible.

U.S. Parking Brakeand BrakeSystemIndicator

This light has two functions:

1. It lights as a reminder that youhave not released the parkingbrake. Driving with the parkingbrake applied can damage thebrakes and tires.

2. If it remains lit after you releasethe parking brake, or comes onwhile driving, it can indicate aproblem in the brake system. Forcomplete information, see page221.


Canada

SRS BRAKE

Indicator Lights

See page 220.

Malfunction IndicatorLamp

Turn Signal andHazard WarningIndicators

The left or right turn signal lightblinks when you signal a lane changeor turn. If the light does not blink orblinks rapidly, it usually means oneof the turn signal bulbs is burned out(see page 191 ). Replace the bulb assoon as possible, since other driverscannot see that you are signalling.

When you turn on the HazardWarning switch, both turn signallights blink. All turn signals on theoutside of the car should flash.

High Beam Indicator

This light comes on with the highbeam headlights. See page 59 forinformation on the headlightcontrols.

On Canadian models, this indicatorcomes on with reduced brightnesswhen the Daytime Running Lights(DRL) are on (see page 60).

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)IndicatorThis light normally comes on for afew seconds when you turn theignition switch ON (II), and whenthe ignition switch is turned toSTART (lII). If this light comes on atany other time, there is a problem inthe ABS. If this happens, take thecar to your dealer to have it checked.With the light on, your car still has

normal braking ability but no anti-lock. For complete information, seepage 140.

Door-open Indicator

This light conies on if either door orthe hatch is not closed tightly.

Low Fuel Indicator

This light comes on as a reminderthat you must refuel soon.


U.S. Canada

ABS

Indicator Lights

"Daytime RunningLights" Indicator

Canadian models onlyThis indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch to ON (II) withthe headlight switch off and theparking brake set. It should go off ifyou turn on the headlights or releasethe parking brake. If it comes on atany other time, it means there is aproblem with the DRL. There mayalso be a problem with the highbeam headlights.

Immobilizer SystemIndicator

This indicator comes on for a fewseconds when you turn the ignitionswitch ON (II). It will then go off ifyou have inserted a properly-codedignition key. If it is not a properly-coded key, the indicator will blinkand the engine will not start (seepage 66 ).

Electric Power Steering(EPS) Indicator

This light normally comes on whenyou turn the ignition ON (II) andgoes off after the engine starts. If itcomes on at any other time, there isa problem in the Electric PowerSteering system. If this happens,stop the car in a safe place and turnoff the engine. Reset the system byrestarting the engine, and watch theEPS light. If it does not go off, orcomes back on again while driving,take the car to your dealer to have itchecked. With the light on, the EPSis turned off, making the car harderto steer.


DRL EPS

Gauges

MEINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

DISPLAY CHANGEBUTTON

TEMPERATURE GAUGE TRIP BUTTON

Liquid crystal is used in the meterpanel. You may feel the indicatorsappear slowly in the low temperature.

SpeedometerThis shows your speed in miles perhour (mph) or kilometers per hour(km/h).

Display Change ButtonThe Display Change button switchesthe speedometer reading betweenmiles per hour and kilometers perhour. It also changes the odometerand trip meters to read in miles orkilometers correspondingly. Tochange the readings, push theDisplay Change button.

OdometerThe odometer shows the total dis-tance your car has been driven. Itdisplays in miles and kilometers.It is illegal under U.S. federal law andCanadian provincial regulations todisconnect, reset, or alter theodometer with the intent to changethe number of miles or kilometersindicated.

CONTINUED


TACHOMETER

FUEL GAUGE

TRIP METER/ODOMETER

SPEEDOMETER

Gauges

FUEL CONSUMPTIONDISPLAY SELECT BUTTON

FUEL MILEAGE DISPLAY

AUTO STOP INDICATOR

IMA CHARGE/ASSIST INDICATOR

SHIFT DOWN INDICATORIMA SYSTEMINDICATOR


SHIFT UP INDICATOR DISPLAY CHANGE BUTTON

TRIP BUTTONCURRENT FUEL MILEAGE DISPLAY

IMA MOTOR ASSISTLEVEL INDICATOR

BATTERYLEVELINDICATOR

Gauges

Current Fuel Mileage

This display shows the current, orinstantaneous fuel mileage you aregetting.To change the meter reading in thedisplay, push the display changebutton.(U.S.: miles per hour and mpg,Canada: kilometer per hour and1/100 km)You can turn off this display at anytime. See page 53 .

Trip Meters

The trip meters show the number ofmiles or kilometers driven since youlast reset them.

There are two trip meters: Trip Aand Trip B. Each trip meter worksindependently, so you can keep trackof two different distances. To changethe display to show Trip A, Trip B, orthe odometer, press the Trip buttonrepeatedly.

To reset a trip meter, display it, thenpress and hold the Trip button untilthe numbers reset to 0.0.


CURRENT FUEL MILEAGE TRIP BUTTON

Gauges

Trip Mileage

When a trip meter is displayed, theaverage fuel mileage you have beengetting during that trip is shown inthe Fuel Mileage display. Thisnumber is updated once per minute.

When you reset a trip meter, theaverage fuel mileage for that tripmeter also resets.

This display can be turned off at anytime. See page 53 .

Segment Distance and FuelMileageYou can use this function to displaythe distance and average fuelmileage for a segment of a trip.

To display the segment distance andfuel mileage, press and release theFCD Select button. The SegmentDisplay indicator will come on toremind you that this is the segmentdistance and fuel mileage display. FCD SELECT BUTTON

To reset the display, press and holdthe FCD Select button until thedisplay resets to zero and dashes.The system then begins displayingthe distance and average fuelmileage from that point. The displayis updated once per minute.

To switch between the segmentdisplay and the Trip Meter/Odometer display, press and releasethe FCD Select button.


TRIP MILEAGE (TRIP A)

SEGMENTDISPLAYINDICATOR

Gauges

Lifetime Fuel Mileage

When the odometer is displayed, theFuel Mileage display shows thelifetime fuel mileage. This is theaverage fuel mileage your vehiclehas gotten since the last time thedisplay was reset.

To reset this display, turn theignition switch to ON (II). If theengine is running, make sure thetransmission is in neutral and theparking brake is set. Use the Tripbutton to display the odometer. Thenpress and hold the Trip button untilthe Lifetime Fuel Mileage Displaybegins to blink (approximately fiveseconds). Release the Trip button,then press it again while the displayis blinking and hold it until thedisplay clears to dashes.

Turning Off the Mileage DisplaysYou can temporarily turn off theCurrent Fuel Mileage and FuelMileage displays.

To turn them off:

1. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).If the engine is running, makesure the transmission is in neutraland the parking brake is set.

2. Use the Trip button to select TripA, Trip B, or the odometer.

3. Press and hold the FCD Selectbutton for approximately threeseconds. The Current FuelMileage display will turn off.

4. Press and hold the FCD Selectbutton again. The Fuel Mileagedisplay for the meter you aredisplaying (Trip A, Trip B, orodometer) will turn off.


CONTINUED

Gauges

5. Use the Trip button to selectanother mileage display.

6. Press and hold the FCD Selectbutton again to turn off thatdisplay.

7. Use the Trip button to select thethird display.

8. Press and hold the FCD Selectbutton again to turn off thatdisplay.

Although the displays are turned off,the average fuel mileages continueto be calculated. The displays willturn back on when you press andhold the FCD Select button again.

Battery Level Gauge

This gauge shows you the state ofcharge of the battery for theIntegrated Motor Assist (IMA). Thisbattery is recharged by the engine,and discharged by the IMA when itis assisting the engine with poweringthe vehicle.

If the battery is mostly discharged,the Auto Idle Stop operation isdisabled. (See page 134)


BATTERY LEVEL GAUGE

Charge/Assist Gauge

This gauge shows the status of theIntegrated Motor Assist. If theindicator is on the left side of thegauge, the IMA battery is beingcharged. If the indicator is on theright side of the gauge, the IMA isassisting the engine.

Gauges


IMA CHARGE/ASSIST GAUGE

Gauges

Fuel GaugeThis shows how much fuel you have.It is most accurate when the car is onlevel ground. It may show slightlymore or less than the actual amountwhen you are driving on curvy orhilly roads.

Temperature GaugeThis shows the temperature of theengine's coolant. During normaloperation, the reading should be inthe middle of the gauge. In severedriving conditions, such as very hotweather or a long period of uphilldriving, the reading may reach nearthe red mark. If it reaches the redmark, pull safely to the side of theroad. Turn to page 216 forinstructions and precautions onchecking the engine's coolingsystem.

TachometerThe tachometer shows the enginespeed in revolutions per minute(rpm). To protect the engine fromdamage, never drive with thetachometer needle in the red zone.


MAINTENANCE REQUIREDINDICATOR

SPEEDOMETER

FUEL GAUGE

TRIP METER/ODOMETER TRIP BUTTONTEMPERATURE GAUGE

DISPLAY CHANGEBUTTON

TACHOMETER

Gauges

Maintenance Required Indicator

This indicator reminds yon that it istime to take your car in forscheduled maintenance.Refer to the Maintenance Schedulesfor Normal and Severe Driving-Conditions on pages 150 — 154.

When the distance driven since thelast scheduled maintenance reaches6,000 miles (9,600 km), the indicatorstarts blinking. If you exceed 7,500miles (12,000 km), the indicatorstays on.

Your dealer will reset this indicatorafter completing the scheduledmaintenance. If this maintenance isdone by someone other than yourHonda dealer, reset the indicator asfollows.

To reset the maintenance requiredindicator, turn the ignition switch toON (II), and continue to hold the tripbutton.


INDICATOR

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

The two levers on the steeringcolumn contain controls for drivingfeatures you use most often. The leftlever controls the turn signals,headlights, and high beams. Theright lever controls the windshieldwashers and wipers.

The hazard warning lights switch ison the dashboard to the right of thecenter air vents.

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES(P. 75)

MIRRORCONTROLS(P. 76)

WINDSHIELDWIPERS/WASHERS(P. 61)

HAZARDWARNINGLIGHTS(P. 63)

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS(P. 59, 61)

HORN REAR WINDOWDEFOGGER(P. 63)



Headlights

The rotating switch on the left levercontrols the lights. Turning thisswitch to the position turnson the parking lights, taillights,instrument panel lights, side-markerlights, and rear license plate lights.Turning the switch to theposition turns on the headlights.

ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I)or LOCK (0), you will hear areminder tone when you open thedriver's door.

To change from low beams to highbeams, push the turn signal leverforward until you hear a click. Theblue high beam indicator will light(see page 47). To return to lowbeams, pull the turn signal leverback.

To flash the high beams, pull theturn signal lever back lightly, thenrelease it. The high beams will comeon and go off. The high beams willstay on for as long as you hold thelever back, no matter what positionthe headlight switch is in.



Daytime Running LightsCanadian models onlyWith the headlight switch off, thehigh beam headlights come on withreduced brightness when you turnthe ignition switch to ON (II) andrelease the parking brake. Theyremain on until you turn the ignitionoff, even if you set the parking brake.

The headlights revert to normaloperation when you turn them onwith the switch.

Instrument Panel Brightness

The buttons in the lower left cornerof the instrument panel adjust thebrightness of the display in six steps.Push the + or — button five timesto see the full range.

The display dims when the parkinglights or headlights are turned on.Adjust the brightness to the desiredlevel with the headlight switch off,and also with the headlight switch on.Both settings will remain at thoselevels until you change them.

With the headlight switch on, youcan switch the display to full daytimebrightness by pushing and holdingthe + button. Push the — button toreturn the display to the originalbrightness.


BUTTON BUTTON


Turn Signals

Signal a turn or lane change with thislever. Push down on the lever tosignal a left turn, and up to signal aright turn. If you push it up or downall the way, the turn signal continuesto blink even when you release thelever. It shuts off automatically asyou complete the turn.

To signal a lane change, push lightlyon the turn signal lever in the properdirection and hold it. The lever willreturn to the center position as soonas you release it.

Windshield Wipers

This lever controls the windshieldwipers and washers. It has fivepositions;

MIST: mistOFF: offINT: intermittentLO: low speedHI: high speed

To select a position, push the leverup or down.


CONTINUED

TURN SIGNAL LEVER


In intermittent, the wipers operateevery few seconds. In low speed andhigh speed, the wipers run continu-ously.

To operate the wipers in mist mode,push the control lever up from theOFF position. The wipers run at highspeed until you release the lever.This gives you a quick way to clearthe windshield.

Windshield Washers

To clean the windshield, pull back onthe wiper control lever. The washersspray until you release the lever.



Rear Window Wiper and Washer

To turn on the rear window wiper,turn the ring clockwise to ON. Toalso use the rear window washer,turn the ring clockwise past ON. Thewasher will spray as long as you holdthe ring in this position. If you turnthe ring counterclockwise from theOFF position, the washer will spraywithout activating the rear windowwiper.

Hazard Warning

Push the button to the right of thecenter vents to turn on the hazardwarning lights (four-way flashers).This causes all four outside turnsignals and both indicators in theinstrument panel to flash. Use thehazard warning lights if you need topark in a dangerous area near heavytraffic, or if your car is disabled.

Rear Window Defogger

Manual OperationThe rear window defogger will clearfog, frost, and thin ice from thewindow. Push the defogger button toturn it on and off. The light in thebutton lights to show the defogger ison. If you do not turn it off, thedefogger will shut itself off afterabout 25 minutes. It also shuts offwhen you turn off the ignition. Youhave to turn it on again when yourestart the car.


CONTINUED


Automatic OperationThe rear window defogger turns onautomatically when you turn theignition switch ON (II) if the outsidetemperature is below 32°F (0°C), orif the engine is at ambienttemperature. The light in the buttondoes not light.

It will also turn off automaticallyafter 25 minutes.

Make sure the rear window is clearand you have good visibility beforestarting to drive.

The defogger wires on the inside ofthe rear window can be accidentallydamaged. When cleaning the glass,always wipe side to side.


Keys and Locks

Keys

Your car comes with two masterkeys and a valet key.The master key fits all the locks onyour vehicle:

IgnitionDoorsHatchGlove box

The valet key works only in theignition and the door locks. You cankeep the glove box and the hatchlocked when you leave your car andthe valet key at a parking facility.

You should have received a keynumber plate with your keys. Youwill need this key number if you everhave to get a lost key replaced. Keepthe plate stored in a safe place. If youneed to replace a key, use onlyHonda-approved key blanks.

These keys contain electroniccircuits that are activated by theImmobilizer System. They will notwork to start the engine if thecircuits are damaged.

Protect the keys from directsunlight, high temperature, andhigh humidity.

Do not drop the keys or set heavyobjects 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 TransmitterYour car also comes with two remotetransmitters; see page 71 for anexplanation of the operation.


KEYNUMBERPLATE

MASTERKEY(BLACK)

VALET KEY(GREY)

Keys and Locks

Immobilizer SystemThe Immobilizer System protectsyour car from theft. A properly-coded master or valet key must beused in the ignition switch for theengine 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 toON (II), the Immobilizer Systemindicator should come on for a fewseconds, then go out. If the indicatorstarts to blink, it means the systemdoes not recognize the coding of thekey. Turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0), remove the key, reinsertit, and turn the switch to ON (II)again.

The system may not recognize yourkey's coding if another immobilizerkey or other metal object is near theignition switch when you insert thekey. To make sure the systemrecognizes the key code:

Do not keep other immobilizerkeys on the same key ring.

Use a plastic or leather key fob,not metal.

Keep other keys away from yourvehicle's key and the ignitionswitch while trying to start theengine.

If the system repeatedly does notrecognize the coding of your key,contact your Honda dealer.

This indicator will also blink severaltimes when you turn the ignitionswitch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY(I) or LOCK (0).

Do not attempt to alter this systemor add other devices to it. Electricalproblems could result that may makeyour car undriveable.

If you have lost your key and you

cannot start the engine, contact yourHonda dealer.

As required by the FCC:This device complies with Part 15 of theFCC rules. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions: (1) This devicemay not cause harmful interference, and(2) this device must accept anyinterference received, includinginterference that may cause undesiredoperation.

Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user'sauthority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with IndustryCanada Standard RSS-210.Operation is subject to the following twoconditions: (1) this device may not causeinterference, and (2) this device mustaccept any interference that may causeundesired operation of the device.


Keys and Locks

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is on the rightside of the steering column. It hasfour positions:

LOCK (0)ACCESSORY (I)ON (II)START (III)

LOCK (0) — You can insert orremove the key only in this position.To switch from ACCESSORY toLOCK, you must push the key inslightly as you turn it. The anti-theftlock will lock the steering columnwhen you remove the key. If thefront wheels are turned, the anti-theft lock may sometimes make itdifficult to turn the key from LOCKto ACCESSORY. Firmly turn thesteering wheel to the left or to theright as you turn the key.

CONTINUED


Removing the key from theignition switch while drivinglocks the steering. This cancause you to lose control.

Remove the key from theignition switch only whenparked.

Keys and Locks

ACCESSORY (I) — In this position,you can operate the audio systemand the accessory power socket.

ON (II) — This is the normal keyposition when driving. All featuresand accessories on the car are usable.Several of the lights on the instru-ment panel come on as a test whenyou turn the ignition switch fromACCESSORY to ON.

START (III) — Use this positiononly to start the engine. The switchreturns to ON (II) when you let go ofthe key.

The engine will not start if theImmobilizer System does notrecognize the key's coding (see page66).

You will hear a reminder beeper ifyou leave the key in the ignitionswitch in the LOCK (0) orACCESSORY (I) position and openthe driver's door. Remove the key toturn off the beeper.


Keys and Locks

Door Locks

LOCK TAB

Each door has a lock tab next to theinside door handle. Push the tab in tolock the door and pull it out to unlock.

To lock the passenger's door whengetting out of the car, push the locktab in and close the door. To lock thedriver's door, pull the door handleand push the lock tab in. Release thehandle, then close the door.

The doors can also be locked andunlocked from the outside with thekey.

Hatch

Use the master key to lock andunlock the hatch. The valet key doesnot work in this lock.To lock the hatch, turn the keycounterclockwise. To unlock thehatch, turn it clockwise.

CONTINUED


Keys and Locks

To open the hatch, push the leverbehind the hatch's back edge. Toclose the hatch, push down on theback edge.

See page 128 for cargo loading andweight limit information. Keep thehatch closed at all times whiledriving to avoid damaging the hatchand to prevent exhaust gas fromgetting into the interior. See CarbonMonoxide Hazard on page 40.

If an unlocked hatch does not open,turn the master key clockwise pastthe unlock position. Open the hatchas you hold the key in that position.

If you need to use this procedure toopen the hatch, your car may bedeveloping a problem. Have thevehicle checked by your Hondadealer.


MASTER KEYUNLOCKPOSITION

LOCK

Keys and Locks

Remote Transmitter

You can lock and unlock your carwith the remote transmitter. Whenyou push the LOCK button, bothdoors lock. The side marker lightsand taillights flash once.

When you push the UNLOCK buttononce, only the driver's door unlocks.The parking lights and taillightsflash twice. The passenger's doorunlocks when you push the button asecond time.

The interior light (if the interior lightswitch is in the center position) willcome on when you press theUNLOCK button. If you do not openeither door, the light will go out inabout 30 seconds and the doors willautomatically relock. If you relockthe doors with the remotetransmitter before 30 seconds haveelapsed, the light will go offimmediately.

You cannot lock or unlock the doorswith the remote transmitter if eitherdoor is not fully closed or the key isin the ignition switch.

Horn OperationThe horn will sound if you push theLOCK button a second time withinfive seconds of locking the doors.

CONTINUED


LED LOCKBUTTON

PANICBUTTON

UNLOCKBUTTON

Keys and Locks

Panic ModePanic mode allows you to remotelyactivate your car's security system toattract attention. When activated, thehorn will sound, and the exteriorlights will flash for about 30 seconds.To activate panic mode, press andhold the PANIC button for about onesecond.

To cancel Panic mode before 30seconds, press any button on theremote transmitter. You can alsoturn the ignition switch to ON (II).

Replacing the BatteryWhen the remote transmitter'sbattery begins to get weak, it maytake several pushes on the button tolock or unlock the doors, and theLED will get dim. Replace thebattery as soon as possible.

Battery type: CR2025

To replace the battery, remove theround cover on the back of the trans-mitter by turning it counterclockwisewith a coin.


Open

Close

Keys and Locks

BATTERY ROUNDCOVER

Remove the old battery and note thepolarity. Make sure the polarity ofthe new battery is the same (+ sidefacing up), then insert it in thetransmitter.

Align the mark on the coverwith the mark on thetransmitter, then set the cover inplace and turn it clockwise.

Transmitter CareAvoid severe shock to the trans-mitter, such as dropping or throwingit. Also, protect it from extreme hotor cold temperatures.

Clean the transmitter case with asoft cloth. Do not use strongcleaners or solvents that could harmthe case. Immersing the transmitterin any liquid will harm the trans-mitter and cause it to not functionproperly.

If you lose a transmitter, you willneed to have the replacementprogrammed to your vehicle'ssystem by your Honda dealer. Anyother transmitters you have will alsoneed to be reprogrammed.

As required by the FCC:This device complies with Part 15 of theFCC rules. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions: (1) This devicemay not cause harmful interference, and(2) this device must accept anyinterference received, includinginterference that may cause undesiredoperation.

Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user'sauthority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with IndustryCanada Standard RSS-210.Operation is subject to the following twoconditions: (1) this device may not causeinterference, and (2) this device mustaccept any interference that may causeundesired operation of the device.


Seat Adjustments

Front Seat AdjustmentsSee pages 12 — 14 for important safetyinformation and warnings about how toproperly position seats and seat-backs.

Make all seat adjustments beforeyou start driving.

To adjust the seat forward andbackward, pull up on the lever underthe seat cushion's front edge. Movethe seat to the desired position andrelease the lever. Try to move theseat to make sure it is locked inposition.

To change the angle of the seat-back,push forward the lever on the insideof the seat bottom. Move the seat-back to the desired position andrelease the lever. Let the seat-backlatch in the new position.


Power Windows

Your car's windows are electrically-powered. Turn the ignition switch toON (II) to raise or lower eitherwindow.

MAIN SWITCH

There is a master power windowcontrol panel on the dashboard. Toopen the passenger's window, pushdown on the switch and hold it downuntil the window reaches the desiredposition. To close the window, pushup on the window switch. Releasethe switch when the window gets tothe position you want.

The master control panel also con-tains these extra features:

AUTO — To open the driver'swindow fully, push the windowswitch firmly down and release it.The window automatically goes allthe way down. To stop the windowfrom going all the way down, pullback on the window switch briefly.To open the driver's window onlypartially, push the window switchdown lightly and hold it. The windowwill stop as soon as you release theswitch.


CONTINUED

Closing a power window onsomeone's hands or fingers cancause serious injury.

Make sure your passenger isaway from the window beforeclosing it.

DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH

Power Windows, Mirrors

The AUTO function only works tolower the driver's window. To raisethe window, you must push thewindow switch up and hold it untilthe window reaches the desiredposition.

The MAIN switch controls power tothe passengers' windows. With thisswitch off, the passengers' windowscannot be raised or lowered. TheMAIN switch does not affect thedriver's window. Keep the MAINswitch off when you have children inthe car so they do not injure them-selves by operating the windowsunintentionally.

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH

Adjust the outside mirrors with theadjustment switch on the left side ofthe dashboard:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

2. Move the selector switch to L(driver's side) or R (passenger'sside).

3. Push the appropriate edge of theadjustment switch to move themirror right, left, up or down.

4. When you finish, move theselector switch to the center (off)position. This turns off theadjustment switch so you can'tmove a mirror out of position byaccidentally bumping the switch.


ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

Mirrors, Parking Brake, Storage Box

Mirrors

Keep the inside and outside mirrorsclean and adjusted for best visibility.Be sure to adjust the mirrors beforeyou start driving.

The inside mirror has day and nightpositions. The night position reducesglare from headlights behind you.Flip the tab on the bottom edge ofthe mirror to select the day or nightposition.

Parking Brake

To apply the parking brake, pull thelever up fully. To release it, pull upslightly, push the button, and lowerthe lever. The parking brake light onthe instrument panel should go outwhen the parking brake is fullyreleased (see page 46).

Driving the car with the parking brakeapplied can damage the rear brakesand axles.

Your car has a storage box under thecargo compartment. To open thestorage box, pull the strap.


TAB

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

STRAP

Storage Box

NOTICE

Glove Box, Beverage Holder

Glove Box

Open the glove box by pulling thebottom of the handle. Close it with afirm push. Lock or unlock the glovebox with the master key.

Beverage Holder

Be careful when you are using thebeverage holder. A spilled liquid thatis very hot can scald you or yourpassengers. Spilled liquids can alsodamage the upholstery, carpeting,and electrical components in theinterior.


GLOVE BOX

An open glove box can causeserious injury to your passengerin a crash, even if thepassenger is wearing the seatbelt.

Always keep the glove boxclosed while driving.

Accessory Power Socket

To use the accessory power socket,pull up the cover. The ignition switchmust be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON(II).

This socket is intended to supplypower for 12 volt DC accessoriesthat are rated 120 watts or less (10amps).

It will not power an automotive typecigarette lighter element.


ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET

Interior Light

Ceiling Lights

DOOR ACTIVATED

The interior light has a three-position switch. In the OFF position,the light does not come on. In thecenter position, the interior lightcomes on when you open either door.In the ON position, the interior lightstays on continuously.

Spotlights

Turn on the spotlight by pushing thebutton next to each light. Push thebutton again to turn it off. You canuse the spotlights at all times.

Cargo Area Light

The cargo area light has a two-position switch. In the OFF (down)position, the light does not come on.In the ON (up) position, the lightcomes on when you open the hatch.


Comfort and Convenience Features

The heating and optional airconditioning systems in your Hondaprovide a comfortable drivingenvironment in all weatherconditions.

The standard audio system hasmany features. This section de-scribes those features and how touse them.

Heating.............................................. 82What Each Control Does............ 82Temperature Control Dial.......... 82ECON Button............................... 82Recirculation Button................... 82Rear Window Defogger

Button....................................... 82Mode Buttons............................... 83How to Use the System............... 85To Turn Everything Off............. 87

Climate Control System.................. 88Fully-automatic Operation.......... 90Semi-automatic Operation.......... 91ECON Button............................... 91

Audio System................................... 96Operating the Radio.................... 97Adjusting the Sound.................. 100Operating the Optional CD

Player/Changer..................... 106Radio Frequencies..................... 110Radio Reception......................... 110Operating the Optional CD

Changer.................................. 112Protecting Compact Discs........ 113CD Player Error Indications..... 114Caring for the Cassette

Player...................................... 116


Heating

Proper use of the Heating systemcan make the interior comfortable,and keep the windows clear for bestvisibility.

What Each Control Does

Fan Control ButtonsPressing the to increase thefan's speed, which increase air flow.Pressing the to decrease thefan's speed.

Temperature Control DialTurning this dial clockwise increasesthe temperature of the air flow.

ECON ButtonWhen the ECON is turned on withthis button, the auto stop functionwill activate at a temperatureapproximately over 41 °F (5°C).

Recirculation ButtonThis button controls the source ofthe air going into the system. Whenthe indicator in this button is lit, airfrom the car's interior is sentthrough the system again (Recircula-tion mode). When the indicator is off,air is brought in from outside the car(Fresh Air mode).

Rear Window Defogger ButtonThis button turns the rear windowdefogger on and off (see page63, 64 ).


REAR WINDOWDEFOGGER BUTTON

RECIRCULATIONBUTTON FAN CONTROL BUTTONS

TEMPERATURECONTROL DIAL

ECON BUTTONMODE BUTTON

Heating

Mode ButtonsUse the MODE buttons to select thevents the air flows from. Some airwill flow from the dashboard cornervents in all modes.

Air flows from the centerand corner vents in the dashboard.

Air flow is divided betweenthe vents in the dashboard and thefloor vents.

Air flows from the floorvents.

Air flow is divided betweenthe floor vents and the defrostervents at the base of the windshield.

Air flows from the defrostervents at the base of the windshield.

When you select orthe system automatically switches toFresh Air mode.

When mode is selected, theauto stop function will not activate.


Heating

Vent Controls

The direction of air flow from thevents in the center and each side ofthe dashboard is adjustable.

To adjust the air flow from thecenter vent, move the tab up-and-down and side-to-side.

DRIVER'S-SIDE VENT

On the driver's-side vent, move thevent up-and-down and move the tabside-to-side. On the passenger's-sidevent, move the tab up-and-down andmove the vent side-to-side.

PASSENGER'S-SIDE VENT

Each vent can be opened and closedwith the dial next to it.


CENTER VENT

Heating

How to Use the SystemThis section covers how to set up thesystem controls for ventilation,heating, and defrosting.

The engine must be running for theheater to generate hot air. Theheater uses engine coolant to warmthe air. If the engine is cold, it will beseveral minutes before you feelwarm air coming from the system.The air conditioning does not rely onengine temperature.

It is best to leave the system in FreshAir mode under almost all conditions.Keeping the system in Recirculationmode can cause the windows to fogup. Switch to Recirculation modewhen you are driving through smokyor dusty conditions, then switch backto Fresh Air mode when thecondition clears.

MODE BUTTON TEMPERATURECONTROL DIAL

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

The outside air intakes for theheating system are at the base of thewindshield. Keep these clear ofleaves and other debris.

FAN CONTROL BUTTONS

VentilationThe flow-through ventilation systemdraws in outside air, circulates itthrough the interior, then exhausts itthrough vents near the rear window.

1. Turn the temperature control dialall the way to the left.

2. Select and Fresh Air mode.3. Set the fan to the desired speed.

CONTINUED


Heating

To HeatTo warm the interior:

1. Start the engine.2. Select 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 Defog and DefrostTo remove fog from the inside of thewindows:

1. Press the button.2. Adjust the temperature control

dial so the air flow from thedefroster vents feels warm.

3. Turn on the rear window deffogerto help clear the rear window.

To remove exterior frost or ice fromthe windshield and side windowsafter the car has been sitting out incold weather:

1. Start the engine.2. Press the button.3. Adjust the fan and temperature

controls to maximum.

To rapidly remove exterior frost orice from the windshield (on very colddays), first select the Recirculationmode. Once the windshield is clear,select the Fresh Air mode to avoidfogging the windows.


Heating

These settings direct all the air flowto the defroster vents at the base ofthe windshield and the side windowdefroster vents. The air flow will getwarmer and clear the windows fasteras the engine warms up. You canclose the side vents with the dialunderneath each vent. This will sendmore warm air to the windshielddefroster vents.

For safety, make sure you have aclear view through all the windowsbefore driving away.

To Turn Everything OffTo shut off the system temporarily,stop the fan and turn thetemperature control dial all the wayto the left.

You should shut the systemcompletely off only for the first fewminutes of driving in cold weather,until the engine coolant warms upenough to operate the heater. Keepthe fan on at all other times so staleair does not build up in the interior.


Climate Control System

Only on cars with automatic airconditioning systemThe automatic climate controlsystem in your Honda picks theproper combination of air condi-tioning, heating, and ventilation tomaintain the interior temperatureyou select. The system also adjuststhe fan speed and air flow levels.

The direction of air flow from thevents in the center and each side ofthe dashboard is adjustable.

To adjust the air flow from thecenter vent, move the tab up-and-down and side-to-side.On the driver's-side vent, move thevent up-and-down and move the tabside-to-side. On the passenger's-sidevent, move the tab up-and-down andmove the vent side-to-side.

The side vents can be opened andclosed with the dials underneaththem.

CENTER VENTS

The climate control system draws airthrough the exterior vents at thebottom of the windshield. Keepthese vents clear of leaves and otherdebris.

DRIVER'S-SIDE VENT

For the climate control system toprovide heating and cooling, theengine must be running.



PASSENGER'S-SIDE VENT



Fully-automatic OperationAuto ButtonTo put the Automatic ClimateControl in fully-automatic mode,press the AUTO button and set thedesired temperature by turning thetemperature control dial. You willsee AUTO in the system's display.The light above the buttonalso shows you which mode,Recirculation or Fresh Air, isselected.When the system is in fullyautomatic mode, the auto idle stopfunction will not be activated.

The system automatically selects theproper mix of conditioned and/orheated air that will, as quickly aspossible, raise or lower the interiortemperature from its current level tothe set temperature.

FAN SPEED BUTTON

TEMPERATURECONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTON

OFF BUTTON

When you set the temperature to itslower limit (60°F/18°C) or its upperlimit (90°F/32°C), the system runsat full cooling or heating only. It doesnot regulate the interior temperature.When the temperature is setbetween the lower and upper limits,the system regulates the interiortemperature to the set value.

In cold weather, the fan will notcome on automatically until the carhas been driven for a short time andthe heater starts to develop warm air.


AUTO BUTTON

ECON BUTTON


Pressing the OFF button shuts theclimate control system completelyoff. Keep the system completely offonly for short periods. To keep staleair and mustiness from collecting,you should have the fan running atall times.

Semi-automatic OperationYou can manually select variousfunctions of the Climate Controlsystem when it is in AUTO. All otherfeatures remain automaticallycontrolled. Making any manualselection causes the word AUTO togo out.

FAN SPEED BUTTON TEMPERATURECONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTON


ECON ButtonThis button turns the airconditioning on and off. When theair conditioning is turned on withthis button, the auto idle stopfunction will activate at atemperature over approximately41°F (5°C).

If the cooling provided in ECONmode is not adequate, press the Autobutton. (See page 90 .)

CONTINUED


ECON BUTTON


Recirculation ButtonThis button controls the source ofthe air going into the system. Whenthe indicator above this button is lit,air from the car's interior is sentthrough the system again (Recircula-tion mode). When the indicator is off,air is brought in from outside the car(Fresh Air mode).You can, for example, manually putthe system in recirculation modewhen driving through an area ofsmoke or fumes.

Fan Speed ButtonYou can manually select the fanspeed with the fan speed button.Pressing the button repeatedlymakes the fan run faster. The fanspeed is shown by bars in the display.If the fan is at its highest speed,pressing the button again takes it toits lowest speed.


MODE BUTTON


ECON BUTTON

FAN SPEED BUTTON TEMPERATORCONTROL DIAL


Mode ButtonUse the MODE button to select thevents the air flows from. Some airwill flow from the dashboard cornervents in all modes. Each time youpress the MODE button, the displayshows the mode selected. Press thebutton four times to see all themodes.

Air flow is divided betweenthe floor vents and the defrostervents at the base of the windshield.

Air flows from the floorvents.

The main air flow is dividedbetween the dashboard vents andthe floor vents.

The main air flow comesfrom the dashboard vents.

CONTINUED



The button directs the mainair flow to the windshield for fasterdefrosting. It also overrides anyMODE selection you may have made.

When you select the A/Cturns on automatically and thesystem selects Fresh Air mode. Forfaster defrosting, manually set thefan speed to high. You can alsoincrease air flow to the windshield byclosing the side vents in thedashboard.

When this mode is selected, the autoidle stop function will not activate.

When you turn off bypressing the button again, thesystem returns to its former settings.

Rear Window Defogger ButtonThis button turns the rear windowdefogger on and off (see page63, 64).

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON



Sunlight Sensor/TemperatureSensor

SUNLIGHT SENSOR

The climate control system has twosensors. A sunlight sensor is locatedin the top of the dashboard and atemperature sensor is next to thesteering column. Do not cover thesensors or spill any liquid on them.

TEMPERATURE SENSOR


Audio System

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo AudioSystemYour Honda's audio system providesclear reception on both AM and FMbands, while the preset buttons allowyou to easily select your favoritestations.

The cassette system features DolbyB* noise reduction, automaticsensing of chromium-dioxide (CrO2)tape, and autoreverse for continuousplay.

* Dolby noise reduction manufactured underlicense from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpo-ration. "DOLBY" and the double-D symbol

are trademarks of Dolby LaboratoriesLicensing Corporation.


Audio System

Operating the RadioThe ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (ID tooperate the audio system. Turn thesystem on by pushing the PWR/VOL knob.Adjust the volume by turning thePWR/VOLknob.

The band and frequency that theradio was last tuned to is displayed.To change bands, press the AM/FMbutton. On the FM band, ST will bedisplayed if the station is broadcast-ing in stereo. Stereo reproduction onAM is not available.

You can use any of four methods tofind radio stations on the selectedband: TUNE, SEEK, SCAN or thePreset buttons.

TUNE — Use the TUNE bar to tunethe radio to a desired frequency.Press the upper part ( ) to tuneto a higher frequency, or the lowerpart ( ) to tune to a lowerfrequency. The frequency numberswill start to change rapidly. Releasethe bar when the display reaches thedesired frequency. To change thefrequency in small increments, pressand release the TUNE bar quickly.

SEEK — The SEEK functionsearches the band for a station witha strong signal. To activate it, pushthe SEEK switch up or down, thenrelease it. Depending on which wayyou push the switch, the systemscans upward or downward from thecurrent frequency. It stops when itfinds a station with a strong signal.

CONTINUED


Audio System

SCAN — The SCAN functionsamples all the stations with strongsignals on the selected band. Toactivate it, press the SCAN button,then release it. When the system isin the SCAN mode, SCN shows inthe display. The system will scan upthe band for a station with a strongsignal. When it finds one, it will stopand play that station forapproximately five seconds. If you donothing, the system will then scanfor the next strong station and playthat for five seconds. When it plays astation that you want to continuelistening to, press the SCAN buttonagain.


AM/FMBUTTON

SCAN BUTTON

PWR/VOLKNOB

SEEK SWITCH TUNE BAR

Audio System

Preset — You can store thefrequencies of your favorite radiostations in the six preset buttons.Each button will store one frequencyon the AM band, and twofrequencies on the FM band.

To store a frequency:

1. Select the desired band, AM orFM. FM1 and FM2 let you storetwo frequencies with each Presetbutton.

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK functionto tune the radio to a desiredstation.

3. Pick the Preset button you wantfor that station. Press the buttonand hold it until you hear a beep.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a totalof six stations on AM and twelveon FM.

Once a station's frequency is stored,simply press and release the properpreset button to tune to it.

The preset frequencies will be lost ifyour car's battery goes dead, isdisconnected, or the radio fuse isremoved.


AM/FM BUTTON

SEEK SWITCH PRESETBUTTONS

TUNE BAR

Audio System

Adjusting the SoundBalance/Fader — These twocontrols adjust the strength of thesound coming from each speaker.The Balance control adjusts the side-to-side strength, while the Fadercontrol adjusts the front-to-backstrength.

To adjust the fader, push on theBASS/FADER control knob to get itto pop out. Pull it out slightly farther,and adjust the front-to-back sound toyour liking. Push the knob back inwhen you are done so you cannotchange the setting by accidentallybumping it.

To adjust the balance, push on theTREBLE/BALANCE control knobto get it to pop out. Pull it out slightlyfarther, and adjust the side-to-sidesound to your liking. Push the knobback in when you are done so youcannot change the setting byaccidentally bumping it.

BASS/FADERCONTROL

TREBLE/BALANCECONTROL

Treble/Bass — Use these controlsto adjust the tone to your liking.

To adjust the Treble level, push onthe TREBLE/BALANCE controlknob to get it to pop out. Withoutpulling it out farther, turn the knobto adjust the treble level. Push theknob back in when you are done soyou cannot change the setting byaccidentally bumping it.

To adjust the Bass level, push on theBASS/FADER control knob to get itto pop out. Without pulling it outfarther, turn the knob to adjust thebass level. Push the knob back inwhen you are done so you cannotchange the setting by accidentallybumping it.


Audio System

Radio Frequencies and ReceptionFor information, See page 110 .

Audio System LightingYou can use the instrument panelbrightness control buttons to adjustthe illumination of the audio system(see page 60 ). The audio systemilluminates when the parking lightsare on, even if the radio is turned off.

Digital ClockThe audio system usually shows thetime when the ignition switch is inACCESSORY (0 or ON (II). Itshows the operation mode of theradio, cassette player, or optional CDchanger when you operate them,then goes back to the time displayafter five seconds.If an error occurs while operatingthe optional CD changer, the displaywill keep showing the error code andwill not switch to the time displayuntil the error is corrected (see page114).

To set the time, press the CLOCK(TAPE/CD) button for more thantwo seconds. To set the hours, pressthe H (Preset 4) button. The hournumbers will begin blinking. Keeppressing the button until thenumbers advance to the desired time.

To set the minutes, press the M(Preset 5) button. The minutesnumbers will begin blinking. Keeppressing the button until thenumbers advance to the desired time.

CONTINUED


CLOCK BUTTON

H BUTTON M BUTTON RESET BUTTON

Audio System

You can use the RESET (Preset 6)button to quickly set the time to thenearest hour. If the displayed time isbefore the half hour, pressingRESET sets the clock back to theprevious hour. If the displayed timeis after the half hour, pressingRESET sets the clock forward to thebeginning of the next hour.For example:

1:06 would RESET to 1:001:52 would RESET to 2:00

The blinking stops and the time isset when you press any buttonsother than the time setting buttons(Presets 4, 5 and 6).

Operating the Cassette PlayerTurn the audio system ON. Makesure the tape opening on the cassetteis facing to the right, then insert thecassette most of the way into the slot.The system will pull it in the rest ofthe way, and begin to play.

The tape direction indicator will lightto show you which side of thecassette is playing. The indicatesthe side you inserted facing upwardis now playing. If you want to playthe other side, press the PROGbutton.


EJECTBUTTON

REW BUTTON CASSETTESLOT

RPTBUTTONSKIPBUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON PROG BUTTONPLAY BUTTON

FF BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

Audio System

Dolby B noise reduction turns onwhen you insert a cassette. If thetape was not recorded with Dolby Bnoise reduction, turn it off bypressing the button.

When the system reaches the end ofthe tape, it will automatically reversedirection and play the other side. Ifyou want to remove the cassettefrom the drive, press the EJECTbutton.

Tape Search FunctionsWith a cassette playing, you can usethe FF, REW, SKIP, or REPEATfunction to find a desired program.

FF/REW — Fast Forward and Re-wind move the tape rapidly. To re-wind the tape, push the REW button.You will see REW in the display. Tofast forward the tape, push the FFbutton. You will see FF displayed.Press the PLAY button to take thesystem out of rewind or fast forward.If the system reaches the end of thetape while in fast forward or rewind,it automatically stops that function,reverses direction, and begins to play.

SKIP — The Skip Function allowsyou to find the beginning of a songor passage. To find the beginning ofthe song or passage currentlyplaying, push the SKIP switch down.You will see REW flashing in thedisplay as the tape rewinds. To findthe beginning of the next song, pushthe SKIP switch up. You will see FFflashing in the display as the tapefast forwards. When the systemfinds the beginning of a song orpassage, it goes back to PLAY mode.

CONTINUED


Audio System

REPEAT — The Repeat functioncontinuously replays the currentsong or passage. Press the RPTbutton to activate it; you will see RPTdisplayed as a reminder. When thesystem reaches the end of the songor passage currently playing, it willautomatically go into rewind. Whenit senses the beginning of the samesong or passage, the system returnsto PLAY mode. It will continue torepeat this same program until youdeactivate REPEAT by pressing thebutton again.


EJECT BUTTON

RPT BUTTON

CASSETTE SLOT

REWBUTTON

FFBUTTON

TAPE DIRECTIONINDICATOR

REPEATINDICATOR

PLAY BUTTON

PROG BUTTON

SKIP BUTTON DOLBY BUTTON

Audio System

The SKIP and REPEAT functionsuse silent periods on the tape to findthe end of a song or passage. Thesefeatures may not work to yoursatisfaction if there is almost no gapbetween selections, a high noiselevel between selections, or a silentperiod in the middle of selection.

Caring for CassettesDamaged cassettes can jam insidethe drive or cause other problems.See page 116 for information oncassette care and protection.


EJECT BUTTON CASSETTE SLOT

RPT BUTTON REWBUTTON

FFBUTTON

TAPE DIRECTIONINDICATOR

PLAY BUTTON

PROG BUTTON

SKIP BUTTON DOLBY BUTTON

Audio System

Operating the Optional CDPlayer/ChangerA Compact Disc changer is availablefrom your dealer. It holds up to sixdiscs, providing several hours ofcontinuous entertainment. Youoperate the CD changer with thesame controls used for the radio andcassette player.

Your dealer also has an accessory in-dash single CD player available thatis operated by the radio controls. Tooperate this unit, use the instructions(except for those relating to multiplediscs) in this section.

Using the instructions that camewith the changer, load the desiredCDs in the magazine, and load themagazine in the changer. Play onlystandard round discs. Odd-shapedCDs may jam in the drive or causeother problems.


TAPE/CD BUTTON

AM/FM BUTTON

RANDOM INDICATOR

REPEAT INDICATOR

PRESET BUTTONS

PWR/VOL KNOB

RPT BUTTON

SKIP SWITCH

Audio System

To operate the CD changer or player,the ignition must be in ACCESSORY(I) or ON (II) and the audio systemmust be on.

Press the CD button until "CD"appears in the display. The systemwill start to play the first track of thefirst disc in the magazine. Play onlystandard round discs.

When that disc ends, the next disc inthe magazine is loaded and played.After the last disc finishes, thesystem returns to disc 1.

To select a different disc, press theappropriate preset button (1 — 6). Ifyou select an empty slot in themagazine, the changer will, afterfinding that slot empty, try to loadthe CD in the next slot. Thiscontinues until it finds a CD to loadand play.

You can use the SKIP switch toselect tracks within a disc. If youpush and release the SKIP switch,the system will move to thebeginning of a track. Push the switchup to move to the beginning of thenext track, and push the switchdown to move to the beginning ofthe current track.

If you push and hold the SKIP switch,you will hear a beep and the systemwill continue to move across tracks.Release the switch when you think ithas reached the desired place on thedisc.

REPEAT — When you activate theRepeat feature by pressing the RPTbutton, the system continuouslyreplays the current track. You willsee RPT in the display as a reminder.Press the RPT button again to turn itoff.

RANDOM PLAY — This feature,when activated, plays the tracks on aCD in random order, rather than inthe order they are recorded on theCD. To activate Random Play, pressand hold the RPT button until yousee RDM in the display. The systemwill then select and play tracksrandomly on the current disc. Whenall tracks on that disc have beenplayed, the next disc is loaded andplayed randomly. This continuesuntil you deactivate Random Play bypressing RPT again.

CONTINUED


Audio System

If the system is in Repeat mode, youmust turn it off by pressing RPTbefore you can select Random Play.Then press the button again untilyou see RDM displayed.

To take the system out of CD mode,press the AM/FM button or insert acassette in the player. If a tape isalready in the cassette player, pressthe TAPE button. When you returnto CD mode, play will continue at thesame disc and track.

If you turn the system off while a CDis playing, either with the PWR/VOLknob or the ignition switch, play willcontinue at the same disc and trackwhen you turn it back on.

Protecting Compact DiscsFor information on how to handleand protect compact discs, see page113.


AM/FM BUTTON

TAPE/CD BUTTON

RANDOM INDICATOR

REPEAT INDICATOR

PRESET BUTTONS

SKIP SWITCH

RPT BUTTON

PWR/VOL KNOB

Audio System

CD Changer Error IndicationsIf you see an error indication in thedisplay while operating the CDchanger, find the cause in the chartto the right. If you cannot clear theerror indication, take the car to yourHonda dealer.


Audio System

Radio FrequenciesYour Honda's radio can receive thecomplete AM and FM bands.Those bands cover these frequen-cies:

AM band:530 to 1,710 kilohertzFM band:87.7 to 107.9 megahertz

Radio stations on the AM band areassigned frequencies at least tenkilohertz apart (530, 540, 550).Stations on the FM band areassigned frequencies at least 0.2megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3).

Stations must use these exactfrequencies. It is fairly common forstations to round-off the frequency intheir advertising, so your radio coulddisplay a frequency of 100.9 eventhough the announcer may identifythe station as "FM101."

Radio ReceptionHow well your Honda's radioreceives stations is dependent onmany factors, such as the distancefrom the station's transmitter,nearby large objects, and atmos-pheric conditions.

A radio station's signal gets weakeras you get farther away from itstransmitter. If you are listening to anAM station, you will notice the soundvolume becoming weaker, and thestation drifting in and out. If you arelistening to an FM station, you willsee the stereo indicator flickering offand on as the signal weakens.Eventually, the stereo indicator willgo off and the sound will fadecompletely as you get out of range ofthe station's signal.

Driving very near the transmitter ofa station that is broadcasting on afrequency close to the frequency ofthe station you are listening to canalso affect your radio's reception.You may temporarily hear bothstations, or hear only the station youare close to.


Audio System

Radio signals, especially on the FMband, are deflected by large objectssuch as buildings and hills. Yourradio then receives both the directsignal from the station's transmitter,and the deflected signal. This causesthe sound to distort or flutter. This isa main cause of poor radio receptionin city driving.

Radio reception can be affected byatmospheric conditions such asthunderstorms, high humidity, andeven sunspots. You may be able toreceive a distant radio station oneday and not receive it the next daybecause of a change in conditions.

Electrical interference from passingvehicles and stationary sources cancause temporary reception problems.

As required by the FCC:Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user'sauthority to operate the equipment.


Audio System

Operating the CD Changer(Optional)A Compact Disc changer is availablefor your vehicle. It holds up to sixdiscs, providing several hours ofcontinuous entertainment. Youoperate this CD changer with thesame controls used for the in-dashCD player.

Load the desired CDs in themagazine and load the magazine inthe changer according to theinstructions that came with the unit.Play only standard round discs. Odd-shaped CDs may jam in the drive orcause other problems.

To select the CD changer, press theCD button. The disc and tracknumbers will be displayed.

To select a different disc, press theappropriate preset button (1 — 6). Ifyou select an empty slot in themagazine, the changer will, afterfinding that slot empty, try to loadthe CD in the next slot. Thiscontinues until it finds a CD to loadand play.

If you load a CD in the in-dash playerwhile the changer is playing a CD,the system will stop the changer andbegin playing the in-dash CD. Toselect the changer again, press theCD button. Play will begin where itleft off. Use the CD button to switchbetween the player and the changer.

If you eject the in-dash CD while it isplaying, the system will automaticallyswitch to the CD changer and beginplay where it left off. If there are noCDs in the changer, the display willflash. You will have to select anothermode (AM or FM) with the button.

When you switch back to CD mode,the system selects the same unit (in-dash or changer) that was playingwhen you switched out of CD mode.

To use the SKIP, REPEAT, andRANDOM functions, refer to the in-dash player operating instructions.


Audio System

Protecting Compact Discs

Handle a CD by its edges; nevertouch either surface. Contaminationfrom fingerprints, liquids, felt-tippens, and labels can cause the CD tonot play properly, or possibly jam inthe drive.

When a CD is not being played, storeit in its case to protect it from dustand other contamination. To preventwarpage, keep CDs out of directsunlight and extreme heat.

To clean a disc, use a clean soft cloth.Wipe across the disc from the centerto the outside edge.

A new CD may be rough on theinner and outer edges. The smallplastic pieces causing this roughnesscan flake off and fall on the re-cording surface of the disc, causingskipping or other problems. Removethese pieces by rubbing the innerand outer edges with the side of apencil or pen.

Never try to insert foreign objects inthe CD player or the magazine.


Audio System

CD Player Error IndicationsIf you see an error indication in thedisplay while operating the CDplayer, find the cause in the chart tothe right. If you cannot clear theerror indication, take the car to yourHonda dealer.


Audio System

CD Changer Error IndicationsIf you see an error indication in thedisplay while operating the CDchanger, find the cause in the chartto the right. If you cannot clear theerror indication, take the car to yourHonda dealer.


Audio System

Caring for the Cassette PlayerThe cassette player picks up dirt andoxides from the tape. This contami-nation builds up over time andcauses the sound quality to degrade.To prevent this, you should clean theplayer after every 30 hours of use.Your dealer has a cleaning kitavailable.

If you do not clean the cassetteplayer regularly, it may eventuallybecome impossible to remove thecontamination with a normalcleaning kit.

Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes.Cassettes longer than that usethinner tape that may break or jamthe drive.

Look at the cassette before youinsert it. If the tape is loose, tightenit by turning a hub with a pencil oryour finger.

If the label is peeling off, remove itfrom the cassette or it could causethe cassette to jam in the player.Never try to insert a warped ordamaged cassette in the player.

When they are not in use, storecassettes in their cases to protectthem from dust and moisture. Neverplace cassettes where they will beexposed to direct sunlight, high heat,or high humidity. If a cassette isexposed to extreme heat or cold, letit reach a moderate temperaturebefore inserting it in the player.

Never try to insert foreign objectsinto the cassette player.

If you see the error indicationon the display, press the

EJECT button and remove thecassette from the unit. Make surethe tape is not damaged. If thecassette will not eject or the errorindication stays on after the cassetteejects, take the vehicle to yourHonda dealer.

If a problem develops in the connec-tion between the cassette player andthe radio, you will see inthe display. Take the vehicle to yourHonda dealer.


Before Driving

Before you begin driving your Honda,you should know what gasoline touse, and how to check the levels ofimportant fluids. You also need toknow how to properly store luggageor packages. The information in thissection will help you. If you plan toadd any accessories to your car,please read the information in thissection first.

Break-in Period.............................. 118Gasoline.......................................... 118Service Station Procedures.......... 119

Filling the Fuel Tank................. 119Opening the Hood..................... 120

Oil Check................................ 122Engine Coolant Check.......... 123

Fuel Economy................................ 124Vehicle Condition...................... 124Driving Habits............................ 124

Accessories and Modifications.... 126Carrying Cargo.............................. 128

Load Limit.................................. 129

Before Driving

Break-in Period, Gasoline

Break-in PeriodHelp assure your car's futurereliability and performance by payingextra attention to how you driveduring the first 600 miles (1,000 km).During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapidacceleration.

Avoid hard braking. New brakesneed to be broken-in by moderateuse for the first 200 miles (300km).

You should follow these same re-commendations with an overhauledor exchanged engine, or when thebrakes are relined.

GasolineYour Honda is designed to operateon unleaded gasoline with a pumpoctane number of 87 or higher. Useof a lower octane gasoline can causea persistent, heavy metallic rappingnoise in the engine that can lead tomechanical damage.

We recommend gasolines containingdetergent additives that help preventfuel system and engine deposits.

Using gasoline containing lead willdamage your car's emissionscontrols. This contributes to airpollution.

In Canada, some gasolines containan octane-enhancing additive calledMMT. If you use such gasolines,your emission control systemperformance may deteriorate andthe Malfunction Indicator Lamp onyour instrument panel may turn on.If this happens, contact yourauthorized Honda dealer for service.

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Filling the Fuel Tank

1. Because the fuel fill cap is on thepassenger's side of the car, parkwith that side closest to theservice station pumps.

2. Open the fuel fill door by pullingon the handle to the left of thedriver's seat.

FUEL FILL CAP

3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.You may hear a hissing sound aspressure inside the tank escapes.

4. Stop filling the tank after the fuelnozzle automatically clicks off. Donot try to "top off" the tank, leavesome room for the fuel to expandwith temperature changes.

Your car has an on-board refuelingvapor recovery system to helpkeep fuel vapors from going intothe atmosphere. If the fuel pumpkeeps clicking off even though thetank is not full, there may be aproblem with this system. Consultyour dealer.

CONTINUED

Before Driving

PULL

Gasoline is highly flammableand explosive. You can beburned or seriously injuredwhen handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keepheat, sparks, and flame away.Handle fuel only outdoors.Wipe up spills immediately.


5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on,tighten it until it clicks severaltimes. If you do not properlytighten the cap, the MalfunctionIndicator Lamp may come on (seepage 220).

6. Push the fuel fill door closed untilit latches.

Opening the Hood

Shift to Park or Neutral and setthe parking brake. Pull the hoodrelease handle located under thelower left corner of the dashboard.The hood will pop up slightly.

Standing in front of the car, putyour fingers under the front edgeof the hood to the right of center.Slide your hand to the left untilyou feel the hood latch handle.Push this handle up until itreleases the hood. Lift the hood.

Before Driving

LATCH

HOODRELEASEHANDLE


If you can open the hood withoutlifting the hood latch handle, or thehood latch handle moves stiffly ordoes not spring back as before, themechanism should be cleaned andlubricated (see page 174).

3. Pull the support rod out of its clipand insert the end into the hole onthe left side of the hood.

To close the hood, lift it up slightly toremove the support rod from thehole. Put the support rod back intoits holding clip. Lower the hood toabout a foot (30 cm) above thefender, then let it drop.

After closing the hood, make sure itis securely latched.

CONTINUED

Before Driving

SUPPORT ROD

CLIP


Oil Check

Check the engine oil level every timeyou fill the car with fuel. Wait a fewminutes after turning the engine offbefore you check the oil.

1. Remove the dipstick (orangehandle).

2. Wipe the dipstick with a cleancloth or paper towel.

3. Insert it all the way back in its tube.

Before Driving

DIPSTICK


4. Remove the dipstick again andcheck the level. It should bebetween the upper and lowermarks.

If it is near or below the lower mark,see Adding Oil on page 159 .

Engine Coolant Check

Look at the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank. Make sure it isbetween the MAX and MIN lines. Ifit is below the MIN line, see AddingEngine Coolant on page 163 forinformation on adding the propercoolant.

Refer to Owner MaintenanceChecks on page 157 for informationon checking other items in yourHonda.

Before Driving

RESERVETANK

MAX

MINUPPER MARKLOWER MARK

Fuel Economy

The condition of your car and yourdriving habits are the two mostimportant things that affect the fuelmileage you get.

Vehicle ConditionAlways maintain your car accordingto the maintenance schedule. Thiswill keep it in top operating condition.

An important part of that mainte-nance is the Owner MaintenanceChecks (see page 157 ). Forexample, an underinflated tirecauses more "rolling resistance,"which uses fuel. It also wears outfaster, so check the tire pressure atleast monthly.

Engine oil also affects fuel economy.The fuel efficient, low-viscosityOW-20 oil recommended for yourInsight is formulated to help theengine use less fuel. This oil isavailable at your Honda dealer.

In winter, the build-up of snow onyour car's underside adds weight androlling resistance. Frequent cleaninghelps your fuel mileage and reducesthe chance of corrosion.

Driving HabitsYou can improve fuel economy bydriving moderately. Rapid acceler-ation, abrupt cornering, and hardbraking use more fuel.

To get the best fuel mileage, drive inthe highest gear that is practical forthe speed you are driving, andalways accelerate slowly.

You may find that your Insight'sunique combination of an engine andan electric motor has drivingcharacteristics that are somewhatdifferent from what you are used to.Shift Up and Shift Down indicatorson the instrument panel show whento shift to a higher or lower gear. Byshifting as soon as the indicatorcomes on, you will keep the engineoperating in its most economicalrange.

Depending on traffic conditions, tryto maintain a constant speed. Everytime you slow down and speed up,your car uses extra fuel.

Wind resistance causes vehicles touse more fuel at higher speeds.Driving at moderate speeds on thehighway reduces wind resistanceand conserves fuel.

Before Driving

Fuel Economy

A cold engine uses more fuel than awarm engine. It is not necessary to"warm-up" a cold engine by letting itidle for a long time. You can driveaway in about a minute, no matterhow cold it is outside. The enginewill warm up faster, and you getbetter fuel economy. To cut down onthe number of "cold starts," try tocombine several short trips into one.

The air conditioning puts an extraload on the engine which makes ituse more fuel. Turn off the A/C tocut down on air conditioning use.Use the flow-through ventilationwhen the outside air temperature ismoderate.

If air conditioning is needed, you cansave some fuel by using the A/C in"Econ" mode. This mode allows theAuto Idle Stop function to shut offthe engine when the vehicle isstopped, resulting in fuel savings.

You may notice that using the A/Ccauses a greater drop in fueleconomy than you are used to inother vehicles. Although the amountof extra fuel used by the A/C load onthe engine is no greater than othervehicles, it is more noticeablebecause of your Insight's excellentfuel mileage. Using the A/C is hotweather may result in fuel economythat is lower than expected.

Before Driving

Accessories and Modifications

Modifying your car, or installingsome non-Honda accessories, canmake your car unsafe. Before youmake any modifications or add anyaccessories, be sure to read thefollowing information.

AccessoriesYour dealer has Genuine Hondaaccessories that allow you topersonalize your car. Theseaccessories have been designed andapproved for your car, and arecovered by warranty.

Non-Honda accessories are usuallydesigned for universal applications.Although aftermarket accessoriesmay fit on your car, they may notmeet factory specifications, andcould adversely affect your car'shandling and stability. (See"Modifications" on the page 127 foradditional information.)

When properly installed, cellularphones, alarms, two-way radios, andlow-powered audio systems shouldnot interfere with your car'scomputer-controlled systems, suchas the SRS.

However, if electronic accessoriesare improperly installed, or exceedyour car's electrical system capacity,they can interfere with the operationof your car, or even cause theairbags to deploy.

Before installing any accessory:

Make sure the accessory does notobscure any lights, or interferewith proper car operation orperformance.

Be sure electronic accessories donot overload electrical circuits(see page 222).

Have the installer contact yourHonda dealer for assistance beforeinstalling any electronic accessory.

If possible, have your dealer inspectthe final installation.

Before Driving

Improper accessories ormodifications can affect yourcar's handling, stability andperformance, and cause acrash in which you can be hurtor killed.

Follow all instructions in thisowner's manual regardingaccessories and modifications.

Accessories and Modifications

ModificationsDo not remove any originalequipment or modify your car in anyway that would alter its design oroperation. This could make your carunsafe and illegal to drive.

For example, do not make anymodifications that would change theride height of your car, or installwheels and tires with a differentoverall diameter.

Such modifications can adverselyaffect handling, and interfere withthe operation of the car's othersystems.

In addition, any modifications thatdecrease ground clearance increasethe chance of undercarriage partsstriking a curb, speed bump, or otherraised object, which could causeyour airbags to deploy.

Do not modify your steering wheelor any other part of yourSupplemental Restraint System.Modifications could make thesystem ineffective.

Additional Safety PrecautionDo not attach or place objects on theairbag covers. Any object attached toor placed on the covers marked "SRSAIRBAG," in the center of thesteering wheel and on top of thedashboard, could interfere with theproper operation of the airbags. Or,if the airbags inflate, the objectscould be propelled inside the car andhurt someone.

Before Driving

Carrying Cargo

STORAGE BOX

REAR CENTERPOCKET*

CARGO AREA SEAT-BACK POCKET GLOVE BOX

Your car has several convenientstorage areas so you can stow cargosafely.

The glove box, rear center pocketand seat-back are designed for small,lightweight items. The cargo area isintended for larger, heavier items.

However, carrying too much cargo,or improperly storing it, can affectyour car's handling, stability andoperation and make it unsafe. Beforecarrying any type of cargo, be sure toread the following pages.

* Do not store large objects in therear center pocket. It will bebroken when you adjust the seatsbackwards.

Before Driving

Carrying Cargo

Load LimitThe maximum load for your vehicleis 365 Ibs (170 kg).

This figure includes the total weightof all occupants, cargo, andaccessories.

To figure out how much cargo youcan carry:

Add up the weight of all occupants.

Subtract the total from 365 Ib (170kg).

The final number is the total weightof cargo you can carry.

Carrying Items in the PassengerCompartment

Store or secure all items that couldbe thrown around and hurtsomeone during a crash.

Be sure items placed on the floorbehind the front seats cannot rollunder the seats and interfere withthe driver's ability to operate thepedals, or with the properoperation of the seats.

Keep the glove box closed whiledriving. If the lid is open, apassenger could injure their kneesduring a crash or sudden stop.

Before Driving

Overloading or improperloading can affect handling andstability and cause a crash inwhich you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and otherloading guidelines in thismanual.

Carrying Cargo

Carrying Cargo in the Cargo AreaDistribute cargo evenly on thefloor of the cargo area, placing theheaviest items on the bottom andas far forward as possible.

Tie down items that could bethrown about the car during acrash or sudden stop.

Do not stack objects higher thanthe tops of the seat-backs. Theycould block your view and bethrown about the vehicle during acrash or sudden stop.

If you carry large items thatprevent you from closing thehatch, exhaust gas can enter thepassenger area. To avoid thepossibility of carbon monoxidepoisoning, follow the instructionson page 40 .

The floor on the storage box ismade of a soft light plasticmaterial. It is not strong enough tostand heavy goods on it.

To secure the luggage, you can usethe four cargo hooks on the cargoarea. The illustration shows thelocation of each cargo hook.

Air Intake

The air intake for the battery islocated behind the passenger's seat.Do not block this air intake with anycargo.

Before Driving

AIR INTAKE

Cargo Hooks

Driving

This section gives you tips onstarting the engine under variousconditions, and how to operate themanual transmission. It also includesimportant information on parkingyour car, and the braking system.

Preparing to Drive......................... 132Starting the Engine........................ 133

Starting in Cold Weatherat High Altitude..................... 133

Auto Idle Stop................................. 1345-speed Manual Transmission..... 136

Shift Up/Shift DownIndicators................................ 137

Engine Speed Limiter............... 137Parking............................................ 138

Parking Tips............................... 138The Braking System...................... 139

Brake Wear Indicators.............. 139Brake System Design................ 140Anti-lock Brakes........................ 140

Driving in Bad Weather................ 142Towing a Trailer............................ 143

Driving

Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checksand adjustments every day beforeyou drive your car.

1. Make sure all windows, mirrors,and outside lights are clean andunobstructed. Remove frost, snow,or ice.

2. Check that the hood and hatch arefully closed.

3. Visually check the tires. If a tirelooks low, use a gauge to check itspressure.

4. Check that any items you may becarrying with you inside are storedproperly or fastened downsecurely.

5. Check the adjustment of the seat(see page 74 ).

6. Check the adjustment of theinside and outside mirrors (seepage 76 ).

7. Make sure the doors are securelyclosed and locked.

8. Fasten your seat belt. Check thatyour passenger has fastened hisseat belt (see page 15).

9. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).Check the indicator lights in theinstrument panel.

10. Start the engine (see page 133 ).

11. Check the gauges and indicatorlights in the instrument panel (seepage 45).

Driving

Starting the Engine

1. Apply the parking brake.

2. In cold weather, turn off allelectrical accessories to reducethe drain on the battery.

3. Push the clutch pedal down all theway. START (III) does notfunction unless the clutch pedal isdepressed.

4. Without touching the acceleratorpedal, turn the ignition key to theSTART (III) position. If the enginedoes not start right away, do nothold the key in START (III) formore than 15 seconds at a time.Pause for at least 10 secondsbefore trying again.

5. If the engine does not start within15 seconds, or starts but stallsright away, repeat step 4 with theaccelerator pedal pressed half-waydown. If the engine starts, releasepressure on the accelerator pedal

so the engine does not race.

6. If the engine still does not start,press the accelerator pedal all theway down and hold it there whilestarting in order to clear flooding.As before, keep the ignition key inthe START (III) position for nomore than 15 seconds. Return tostep 5 if the engine does not start.If it starts, lift your foot off theaccelerator pedal so the enginedoes not race.

Starting in Cold Weather at HighAltitude (Above 8,000 feet/2,400 meters)An engine is harder to start in coldweather. The thinner air found athigh altitude above 8,000 feet (2,400meters) adds to the problem.Use the following procedure:

1. Turn off all electrical accessoriesto reduce the drain on the battery.

2. Push the accelerator pedal half-way to the floor and hold it therewhile starting the engine. Do nothold the ignition key in START(III) for more than 15 seconds.When the engine starts, releasethe accelerator pedal gradually asthe engine speeds up and smoothsout.

3. If the engine fails to start in step 2,push the accelerator pedal to thefloor and hold it there while youtry to start the engine for no morethan 15 seconds. If the enginedoes not start, return to step 2.

Driving

Auto Idle Stop

To maximize fuel economy, youInsight has an Auto Idle Stopfunction. Under certain conditions,the engine will shut off when youcome to a stop. Those conditions are:

The engine coolant is nearly up tonormal operating temperature.

The vehicle's speed is below 19mph (30 km/h) and you arepressing on the brake pedal tocome to a stop.

You depress the clutch pedal.

You are not pressing on theaccelerator pedal.

The IMA battery is sufficientlycharged (at least 1/3 on theBattery Level Gauge).

The A/C is off, or in ECON mode(See page 82, 91).

There is adequate vacuum reservefor the power brakes.

When these conditions are met, theengine will shut off as you come to astop. It will start again automaticallywhen you depress the clutch pedaland move this shift lever to first gear.There is no need to start the enginewith the ignition switch.

It is recommended that you movethe shift lever to Neutral and removeyour foot from the clutch pedal whileyou are stopped. Sitting with theclutch pedal depressed and the shiftlever in gear will cause the engine tocontinue running, defeating the fueleconomy benefits of the Auto IdleStop function.

During Auto Stop, the IMA chargeand power brake vacuum reserve ismonitored by the system. If eitherdrops below a desired level, and theshift lever is in Neutral, the enginewill restart so it can recharge theIMA battery or replenish the vacuumsupply.

Driving

Auto Idle Stop

Auto Idle Stop Indicator

This indicator comes on as areminder that the engine hasstopped because of the Auto Stopfunction. You cannot restart theengine with the ignition switch whenthis light is blinking.

This indicator will blink, and you willhear a chime, if you open the doorwhen Auto Stop is active.

Always turn the ignition switch toLOCK and remove the key if you aregetting out of the vehicle.

Driving

AUTO IDLE STOP INDICATOR

5-speed Manual Transmission

The manual transmission is syn-chronized in all forward gears forsmooth operation. It has a lockout soyou cannot shift directly from Fifthto Reverse. When shifting up ordown, make sure you push the clutchpedal down all the way, shift to thenext gear, and let the pedal upgradually. When you are not shifting,do not rest your foot on the clutchpedal. This can cause your clutch towear out faster.

Come to a full stop before you shiftinto Reverse. You can damage thetransmission by trying to shift intoReverse with the car moving. Pushdown the clutch pedal, and pause fora few seconds before shifting intoReverse, or shift into one of theforward gears for a moment. Thisstops the gears so they won't "grind."

When slowing down, you can getextra braking from the engine byshifting to a lower gear. This extrabraking can help you maintain a safespeed and prevent your brakes fromoverheating while going down asteep hill. Before downshifting,make sure the vehicle speed is lowenough that you will not activate theengine speed limiter in the lowergear. Make sure the engine speedwill not go into the tachometer's redzone in the lower gear beforedownshifting.

Driving

Rapid slowing or speeding-upcan cause loss of control onslippery surfaces. If you crash,you can be injured.

Use extra care when driving onslippery surfaces.

5-speed Manual Transmission

Shift Up/Shift Down Indicators

Either the Shift Up or Shift Downindicator will light to show the besttime to shift to a higher or lowergear. You can achieve the best fueleconomy by accelerating anddecelerating slowly, and shiftingwhen prompted by the Shift Upindicator.

The Shift Down indicator prompts toshift to a lower gear to keep speed ina hilly road.

Road and traffic conditions mayrequire you to shift at times otherthan those indicated.

Engine Speed LimiterIf you exceed the maximum speedfor the gear you are in, the enginespeed will enter into the tachometer'sred zone. If this occurs, you may feelthe engine cut in and out. This iscaused by a limiter in the engine'scomputer controls. The engine willrun normally when you reduce theRPM below the red zone.

Before downshifting, make sure theengine will not go into thetachometer's red zone.

Driving

SHIFT UP INDICATOR

SHIFT DOWN INDICATOR

Parking

Always use the parking brake whenyou park your car. The indicator onthe instrument panel shows that theparking brake is not fully released; itdoes not indicate that the parkingbrake is firmly set. Make sure theparking brake is set firmly or yourcar may roll if it is parked on anincline.

If the car is facing uphill, turn thefront wheels away from the curb andput the transmission in first gear.

If the car is facing downhill, turn thefront wheels toward the curb and putthe transmission in reverse gear.

Make sure the parking brake is fullyreleased before driving away.Driving with the parking brakepartially set can overheat or damagethe rear brakes.

Parking TipsMake sure the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc.,in the storage box or take themwith you.

Lock the doors.

Never park over dry leaves, tallgrass, or other flammablematerials. The three way catalyticconverter gets very hot, and couldcause these materials to catch onfire.

Driving

The Braking System

Your Honda is equipped with frontdisc brakes. The brakes on the rearwheels are drum. The brakingsystem is power-assisted to reducethe effort needed on the brake pedal.

Put your foot on the brake pedal onlywhen you intend to brake. Restingyour foot on the pedal keeps thebrakes applied lightly, causing themto build up heat. Heat build-up canreduce how well your brakes work. Italso keeps your brake lights on allthe time, confusing drivers behindyou.

Constant application of the brakeswhen going down a long hill buildsup heat and reduces their effective-ness. Use the engine to assist thebrakes by downshifting to a lowergear and taking your foot off theaccelerator pedal.

Check your brakes after drivingthrough deep water. Apply thebrakes moderately to see if they feelnormal. If not, apply them gently andfrequently until they do. Since alonger distance is needed to stopwith wet brakes, be extra cautiousand alert in your driving.

Brake Wear IndicatorsThe front disc brakes on all modelshave audible brake wear indicators.

When the brake pads need replacing,you will hear a distinctive metallic"screeching" sound when you applythe brakes. If you do not have thebrake pads replaced, they will beginscreeching all the time.

Your brakes may sometimes squealor squeak when you apply themlightly. Do not confuse this with thebrake wear indicators. They make avery audible "screeching."

Driving

The Braking System

Brake System DesignThe hydraulic system that operatesthe brakes has two separate circuits.Each circuit works diagonally acrossthe vehicle (the left-front brake isconnected with the right-rear brake,etc.). If one circuit should develop aproblem, you will still have brakingat two wheels.

Anti-lock BrakesYour car has an Anti-lock BrakeSystem (ABS) as standardequipment. ABS helps to prevent thewheels from locking up and skiddingduring hard braking, allowing you toretain steering control.

When the front tires skid, you losesteering control; the car continuesstraight ahead even though you turnthe steering wheel. The ABS helps toprevent lock-up and helps you retainsteering control by pumping thebrakes rapidly; much faster than aperson can do it.

You should never pump thebrake pedal, this defeats thepurpose of the ABS. Let the ABSwork for you by always keeping firm,steady pressure on the brake pedalas you steer away from the hazard.This is sometimes referred to as"stomp and steer."

You will feel a pulsation in the brakepedal when the ABS activates, andyou may hear some noise. This isnormal, it is the ABS rapidlypumping the brakes.

Activation varies with the amount oftraction your tires have. On drypavement, you will need to press onthe brake pedal very hard before youactivate the ABS. However, you mayfeel the ABS activate immediately ifyou are trying to stop on snow or ice.

Driving

Front

The Braking System

Important Safety RemindersABS does not reduce the time ordistance it takes to stop the car, itonly helps with steering controlduring braking. You should alwaysmaintain a safe following distancefrom other vehicles.

ABS will not prevent a skid thatresults from changing directionabruptly, such as trying to take acorner too fast or making a suddenlane change. Always drive at a safe,prudent speed for the road andweather conditions.

ABS cannot prevent a loss ofstability. Always steer moderatelywhen you are braking hard. Severeor sharp steering wheel movementcan still cause your car to veer intooncoming traffic or off the road.

A car with ABS may require alonger distance to stop on loose oruneven surfaces, such as gravel orsnow, than a car without anti-lock.Slow down and allow a greaterdistance between cars under thoseconditions.

ABS Indicator

The ABS is self-checking. If anythinggoes wrong, the ABS indicator onthe instrument panel comes on (seepage 46). This means the anti-lockfunction of the braking system hasshut down. The brakes still work likea conventional system without anti-lock, providing normal stoppingability. You should have the dealerinspect your car as soon as possible.

Driving

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEMINDICATOR

Driving in Bad Weather

Rain, fog, and snow conditions re-quire a different driving techniquebecause of reduced traction andvisibility. Keep your car well-maintained and exercise greatercaution when you need to drive inbad weather.

Driving Technique — Always driveslower than you would in dryweather. It takes your car longer toreact, even in conditions that mayseem just barely damp. Applysmooth, even pressure to all thecontrols. Abrupt steering wheelmovements or sudden, hard appli-cation of the brakes can cause loss ofcontrol in wet weather. Be extracautious for the first few miles(kilometers) of driving while youadjust to the change in drivingconditions. This is especially true insnow. A person can forget somesnow-driving techniques during thesummer months. Practice is neededto relearn those skills.

Exercise extra caution when drivingin rain after a long dry spell. Aftermonths of dry weather, the firstrains bring oil to the surface of theroadway, making it slippery.

Visibility — Being able to seeclearly in all directions and being-visible to other drivers are importantin all weather conditions. This ismore difficult in bad weather. To beseen more clearly during daylighthours, turn on your headlights.

Inspect your windshield wipers andwashers frequently. Keep the wind-shield washer reservoir full of theproper fluid. Have the windshieldwiper blades replaced if they start tostreak the windshield or leave partsunwiped. Use the defrosters and airconditioning to keep the windowsfrom fogging up on the inside (seepage 86 ).

Driving

Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer

Traction — Check your tiresfrequently for wear and properpressure. Both are important inpreventing "hydroplaning" (loss oftraction on a wet surface). In thewinter, mount snow tires on all fourwheels for the best handling.

Watch road conditions carefully,they can change from moment tomoment. Wet leaves can be as slip-pery as ice. "Clear" roads can havepatches of ice. Driving conditionscan be very hazardous when theoutside temperature is near freezing.The road surface can becomecovered with areas of water puddlesmixed with areas of ice, so yourtraction can change without warning.

Be careful when downshifting. Iftraction is low, you can lock up thedrive wheels for a moment and causea skid.

Be very cautious when passing, orwhen being passed by other vehicles.The spray from large vehiclesreduces your visibility, and the windbuffeting can cause you to losecontrol.

Towing a TrailerYour vehicle is not designed to tow atrailer. Attempting to do so can voidyour warranties.

Driving

144

Maintenance

This section explains why it isimportant to keep your car wellmaintained and to follow basicmaintenance safety precautions.

This section also includesMaintenance Schedules for normaldriving and severe driving conditions,a Maintenance Record, and instruc-tions for simple maintenance tasksyou may want to take care ofyourself.

If you have the skills and tools to per-form more complex maintenancetasks on your Honda, you may wantto purchase the Service Manual. Seepage 249 for information on how toobtain a copy, or see your Hondadealer.

Maintenance Safety....................... 146Important Safety Precautions.. 147

Maintenance Schedule.................. 148Maintenance Record..................... 155Owner Maintenance Checks........ 157Fluid Locations............................... 158Engine Oil....................................... 159

Adding Oil................................... 159Recommended Oil..................... 159Synthetic Oil............................... 160Additives..................................... 160Changing the Oil and Filter...... 161

Cooling System.............................. 163Adding Engine Coolant............. 163Replacing Engine Coolant........ 165

Windshield Washers..................... 169Transmission Fluid........................ 170Brake and Clutch Fluid................. 171

Brake System............................. 171Clutch System............................ 172

Air Cleaner Element...................... 173Hood Latch..................................... 174Battery............................................ 175Wiper Blades.................................. 177Air Conditioning System............... 180Air Conditioning Filter.................. 181

Drive Belts...................................... 181Tires................................................ 182

Inflation....................................... 182Recommended TirePressures for NormalDriving................................ 183

Inspection................................... 184Maintenance............................... 184Tire Rotation.............................. 185Replacing Tires and Wheels.... 185Wheels and Tires....................... 186Winter Driving........................... 186

Snow Tires.............................. 187Tire Chains............................. 187

Lights.............................................. 188Replacing Bulbs......................... 190

Storing Your Car............................ 196

Maintenance

Maintenance Safety

Regularly maintaining your car is thebest way to protect your investment.Proper maintenance is essential toyour safely and the safety of yourpassengers. It will also reward youwith more economical, trouble-freedriving and help reduce air pollution.

This section includes instructions forsimple maintenance tasks, such aschecking and adding oil. Any serviceitems not detailed in this sectionshould be performed by a Hondatechnician or other qualifiedmechanic.

Some of the most important safetyprecautions are given here. However,we cannot warn you of everyconceivable hazard that can arise inperforming maintenance. Only youcan decide whether or not youshould perform a given task.

Maintenance

Improperly maintaining this caror failing to correct a problembefore driving can cause acrash in which you can beseriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspectionand maintenancerecommendations andschedules in this owner'smanual.

Failure to properly followmaintenance instructions andprecautions can cause you tobe seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the proceduresand precautions in this owner'smanual.

Maintenance Safety

Important Safety PrecautionsBefore you begin any maintenance,make sure your car is parked onlevel ground and that the parkingbrake is set. Also, be sure the engineis off. This will help to eliminateseveral potential hazards:

Carbon monoxide poisoningfrom engine exhaust. Be surethere is adequate ventilationwhenever you operate the engine.

Burns from hot parts. Let theengine and exhaust system coolbefore touching any parts.

Injury from moving parts. Donot run the engine unless in-structed to do so.

Read the instructions before youbegin, and make sure you have thetools and skills required.

To reduce the possibility of fire orexplosion, be careful when workingaround gasoline or batteries. Use acommercially available degreaser orparts cleaner, not gasoline, to cleanparts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, andflames away from the battery and allfuel-related parts.

You should wear eye protection andprotective clothing when workingnear the battery or when usingcompressed air.

Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule

The Maintenance Schedule specifieshow often you should have your carserviced and what things needattention. It is essential that you haveyour car serviced as scheduled toretain its high level of safety,dependability, and emissions controlperformance.

The services and time or distanceintervals shown in the maintenanceschedule assume you will use yourcar as normal transportation forpassengers and their possessions.You should also follow theserecommendations:

Avoid exceeding your car's loadlimit. This puts excess stress onthe engine, brakes, and manyother parts of your car. The loadlimit is shown on the label on thedriver's doorjamb.

Operate your car on reasonableroads within the legal speed limit.

Drive your car regularly over adistance of several miles(kilometers).

Always use unleaded gasoline withthe proper octane rating (see page118).

Which Schedule to Follow:Service your car according to thetime and mileage periods on one ofthe Maintenance Schedules on thefollowing pages. Select the schedulefor "Severe Conditions" if most ofyour driving is done under one ormore of the conditions listed on thatpage. Otherwise, follow the schedulefor "Normal Conditions."

Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule

Your authorized Honda dealerknows your car best and can providecompetent, efficient service.However, service at a dealer is notmandatory to keep your warrantiesin effect. Maintenance may be doneby any qualified service facility orperson who is skilled in this type ofautomotive service. Keep all thereceipts as proof of completion, andhave the person who does the workfill out the Maintenance Record.Check your warranty booklet formore information.

We recommend the use of GenuineHonda parts and fluids whenever youhave maintenance done. These aremanufactured to the same high-quality standards as the originalcomponents, so you can be confidentof their performance and durability.

U.S. Vehicles:Maintenance, replacement orrepair of emissions controldevices and systems may be doneby any automotive repairestablishment or individual usingparts that are "certified" to EPAstandards.

According to state and federalregulations, failure to performmaintenance on the items markedwith # will not void your emissionswarranties. However, Hondarecommends that all maintenanceservices be performed at therecommended time or mileageperiod to ensure long-term reliability.

Maintenance

U.S. OwnersFollow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule if thesevere driving conditionsspecified in the SevereConditions MaintenanceSchedule do not apply.

NOTE: If you onlyOCCASIONALLY drive under a"severe" condition, you shouldfollow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule.

Canadian OwnersFollow the MaintenanceSchedule for Severe Conditions.

#: See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page 149.

Maintenance

Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C as required for each distance/time interval. Follow thisschedule 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.

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, lastcolumn, page 149.

NOTE:Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop.Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, if noisy.

Maintenance

U.S. OwnersFollow the Severe ConditionsMaintenance Schedule if youdrive your vehicle MAINLYunder one or more of thefollowing conditions:

Driving less than 5 miles (8km) per trip or, in freezingtemperatures, driving lessthan 10 miles (16 km) per trip.Driving in extremely hot[over 90°F (32°C)] conditions.Extensive idling or longperiods of stop-and-go driving.Driving with a roof rack, ordriving in mountainousconditions.Driving on muddy, dusty, orde-iced roads.

Canadian OwnersFollow the MaintenanceSchedule for Severe Conditions.

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page 149.

*1 : Refer to page 181 for replacement information under special driving conditions.

Maintenance

Use this schedule if your vehicle is MAINLY driven in any of the following Severe Conditions, or normally driven in Canada; otherwise use the NormalSchedule. Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C, D as required for each distance/time.Severe 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 with a roof rack, or driving in mountainous conditions.Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads.

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page 149.

NOTE:Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop.

Maintenance

CONTINUED

page 185

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, lastcolumn, page 149.

* 1 : Refer to page 181 for replacement information under specialdriving conditions.

NOTE:Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop.Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, if noisy.

Maintenance

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 150 ) or severeconditions (page 152 ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.

MaintenanceCONTINUED

Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

Maintenance

Owner Maintenance Checks

You should check the followingitems at the specified intervals. Ifyou are unsure of how to performany check, turn to the page given.

Engine oil level — Check everytime you fill the fuel tank. Seepage 122.

Engine coolant level — Check theradiator reserve tank every timeyou fill the fuel tank. See page 123 .

Windshield washer fluid — Checkthe level in the reservoir monthly.If weather conditions cause you touse the washers frequently, checkthe reservoir each time you stopfor fuel. See page 169 .

Brakes — Check the fluid levelmonthly. See page 171.

Tires — Check the tire pressuremonthly. Examine the tread forwear and foreign objects. See page183.

Lights — Check the operation ofthe headlights, parking lights,taillights, high-mount brake light,turn signals, brake lights, andlicense plate lights monthly. Seepage 188.

Maintenance

Fluid Locations

ENGINE OILFILL CAP

WASHER FLUID(Blue cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK(Orange loop)

CLUTCH FLUID(Gray cap)

BRAKE FLUID(Gray cap)

ENGINECOOLANTRESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP

Maintenance

Engine Oil

Adding Oil

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

To add oil, unscrew and remove theengine oil fill cap on top of the valvecover. Pour in the oil, and install theengine oil fill cap. Tighten it securely.Wait a few minutes and recheck theoil level. Do not fill above the uppermark; you could damage the engine.

Recommended OilOil is a major contributor to yourengine's performance and longevity.Always use a premium-grade deter-gent oil. It is highly recommendedthat you use Genuine Honda MotorOil in your vehicle for as long as youown it.

You can determine an oil's SAEviscosity and Service Classificationfrom the API Service label on the oilcontainer.

A very low-viscosity, fuel-efficientOW-20 oil is preferred enginelubricant for your Insight. This isshown on the API Service label bythe words "Energy Conserving."This special oil is formulated to helpyour engine use less fuel. It isavailable at your Honda dealer.

The API Service label also tells youthe service classification of the oil.Always use an oil that is labeled "APIService SJ."

API SERVICE LABEL

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Engine Oil

The oil container may also displaythe API Certification seal. Make sureit says "For Gasoline Engines."

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

The SAE numbers tell you the oil'sviscosity or weight. Select the oil foryour car according to this chart.

An oil with a viscosity of 0W-20 ispreferred for optimum fuel economyand year-round protection in yourHonda. A 5W-20 or 5W-30 oil may beused if OW-20 is not available.

Synthetic OilYou may use a synthetic motor oil ifit meets the same requirements asthe specified oil: energy conserving,a service classification of SJ, and aweight of either OW-20, 5W-20, or5W-30. When using synthetic oil, youmust follow the oil and filter changeintervals given in the maintenanceschedule.

AdditivesYour Honda does not need any oiladditives. Purchasing additives forthe engine or transmission will notincrease your car's performance orlongevity. It only increases the costof operating your car.

Maintenance

Ambient Temperature

Engine Oil

Changing the Oil and FilterAlways change the oil and filteraccording 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 ifthey are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requiresspecial tools and access fromunderneath the car. The car shouldbe raised on a service station-typehydraulic lift for this service. Unlessyou have the knowledge and properequipment, you should have thismaintenance done by a skilledmechanic.

1. Open the hood and remove theengine oil fill cap. Remove theblack cover under the engine.

WASHER OIL DRAIN BOLT

2. Remove the oil drain bolt andwasher from the bottom of theengine. Drain the oil into anappropriate container.

Do not loosen the smaller boltlocated above the drain bolt.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Engine Oil

3. Remove the oil filter and let theremaining oil drain. A specialwrench (available from yourHonda dealer) is required toremove the filter.

4. Install a new oil filter according toinstructions that come with it.

5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt,then reinstall the drain bolt.Tighten it to:29lbf.ft (39N.m,4.0kgf.m)

6. Refill the engine with the recom-mended oil.Engine oil change capacity(including filter):2.6 US qt (2.5 , 2.2 Imp qt)

7. Replace the engine oil fill cap.Start the engine. The oil pressureindicator light should go out withinfive seconds. If it does not, turn offthe engine and reinspect yourwork.

8. Let the engine run for severalminutes and check the drain boltand oil filter for leaks.

9. Turn off the engine, let it sit forseveral minutes, then check the oillevel. If necessary, add oil to bringthe level to the upper mark on thedipstick.

10.Install the black cover under theengine.

Improper disposal of engine oil can beharmful to the environment. If youchange your own oil, please dispose ofthe used oil properly. Put it in a sealedcontainer and take it to a recyclingcenter. Do not discard it in a trash binor dump it on the ground.

Maintenance

OIL FILTER

NOTICE

Cooling System

Adding Engine Coolant

If the coolant level in the reservetank is at or below the MIN line, addcoolant to bring it up to the MAX line.Inspect the cooling system for leaks.This coolant should always be amixture of 50 percent antifreeze and50 percent water. Never add straightantifreeze or plain water.

Always use Genuine HondaAntifreeze/Coolant. If it is notavailable, you may use anothermajor-brand non-silicate coolant as atemporary replacement. Make sure itis a high-quality coolantrecommended for aluminum engines.However, continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result incorrosion, causing the coolingsystem to malfunction or fail. Havethe cooling system flushed andrefilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

If the reserve tank is completelyempty, you should also check thecoolant level in the radiator.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

RESERVE TANK

Removing the radiator capwhile the engine is hot cancause the coolant to spray out,seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine andradiator cool down beforeremoving the radiator cap.

Cooling System

1. Make sure the engine and radiatorare cool.

2. Turn the radiator cap counter-clockwise, without pressing downon it, until it stops. This relievesany pressure remaining in thecooling system.

3. Remove the radiator cap bypushing down and turningcounterclockwise.

4. The coolant level should be up tothe base of the filler neck. Addcoolant 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 MAXand MIN marks. Put the cap backon the reserve tank.

Do not add any rust inhibitors orother additives to your car's coolingsystem. They may not be compatiblewith the coolant or engine compo-nents.

Maintenance

RADIATOR CAP RESERVE TANK

Cooling System

Replacing Engine CoolantThe cooling system should becompletely drained and refilled withnew coolant according to the timeand distance recommendations inthe maintenance schedule. Only useGenuine Honda Antifreeze/Coolant.

Draining the coolant requires accessto the underside of the car. Unlessyou have the tools and knowledge,you should have this maintenancedone by a skilled mechanic.

1. Turn the ignition ON (II). Turnthe temperature control dial tomaximum heat. Turn off theignition and remove the key. Openthe hood. Make sure the engineand radiator are cool to the touch.

2. Remove the radiator cap.

3. Remove the alloy cover under theradiator.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Cooling System

4. Loosen the drain plug on thebottom of the radiator. Thecoolant will drain through thesplash guard. Remove the drainbolt and washer from the engineblock.

5. Remove the reserve tank from itsholder by pulling it straight up.Drain the coolant, then put thetank back in its holder.

Maintenance

DRAIN BOLT

RESERVE TANK CAP

RESERVE TANK HOLDER

Cooling System

6. When the coolant stops draining,tighten the drain plug at thebottom of the radiator.Apply non-hardening sealant to thedrain bolt threads, put a newwasher on the drain bolt, andreinstall the bolt in the engineblock. Tighten it securely.Tightening torque:61 Ibf.ft (83 N.m , 8.5 kgf.m)

7. Mix the recommended antifreezewith an equal amount of purifiedor distilled water in a cleancontainer. The cooling systemcapacity is:0.61 US gal (2.3 , 0.51 Imp gal)

8. Remove the engine cover.

9. Loosen the bleeder bolt on top ofthe engine. Pour coolant into theradiator up to the base of the fillerneck. Tighten the bleeder boltwhen coolant comes out in asteady stream with no bubbles.Install the radiator cap.

10.Remove the cap from the wateroutlet, and install a pipe and funnel.

11.Pour coolant into the funnel untilthe coolant stops flowing into theengine.

12.Start the engine and let it run forabout 30 seconds. Then turn offthe engine.

13.Pour coolant into the water outletup to its edge. Install the cap.

14.Install the engine cover.CONTINUED

Maintenance

CAP

BLEEDER BOLT

Cooling System

15.Start the engine and let it run forabout 30 seconds. Then turn offthe engine.

16.Pour coolant into the radiator upto the base of the filler neck.

17.Fill the reserve tank to the MAXmark. Install the reserve tank cap.

Maintenance

Windshield Washers

Check the level in the windshieldwasher reservoir at least monthlyduring normal usage. In bad weather,when you use the washers often,check the level every time you stopfor fuel. This reservoir supplies thewindshield and rear window washers.

LEVEL GAUGE

The windshield washer reservoir islocated behind the passenger's sideheadlight. Check the reservoir's fluidlevel by removing the cap andlooking at the level gauge attachedto the cap.

Fill the reservoir with a good-qualitywindshield washer fluid. Thisincreases the cleaning capability andprevents freezing in cold weather.

When you refill the reservoir, cleanthe edges of the windshield wiperblades with windshield washer fluidon a clean cloth. This will help tocondition the blade edges.

Do not use engine antifreeze or avinegar/water solution in thewindshield washer reservoir.

Antifreeze can damage your car's paint,while a vinegar/water solution candamage the windshield washer pump.

Use only commercially-availablewindshield washer fluid.

Maintenance

NOTICE

Transmission Fluid

Check the fluid level with thetransmission at normal operatingtemperature and the car sitting onthe level ground.Remove the black cover under theengine.

Remove the transmission filler boltand carefully feel inside the bolt holewith your finger. The fluid levelshould be up to the edge of the bolthole. If it is not, add Genuine HondaManual Transmission Fluid (MTF)until it starts to run out of the hole.Reinstall the filler bolt and tighten itsecurely.

If Honda MTF is not available, youmay use an API service SG, SH or SJgrade motor oil with a viscosity ofSAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 as atemporary replacement. An SGgrade is preferred, but an SH or SJgrade may be used if SG is notavailable. However, motor oil doesnot contain the proper additives andcontinued use can cause stiffershifting. Replace as soon as it isconvenient.

The transmission should be drainedand refilled with new fluid accordingto the time and distance recommen-dations in the maintenance schedule.

Maintenance

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Check the fluid level in the reser-voirs monthly. There are two reser-voirs. They are:

Brake fluid reservoirClutch fluid reservoir

The brake fluid should be replacedaccording to the time and distancerecommendations in the mainte-nance schedule.

Always use Genuine Honda DOT 3brake fluid. If it is not available, youshould use only DOT 3 or DOT 4fluid, from a sealed container, as atemporary replacement. However,the use of any non-Honda brake fluidcan cause corrosion and decreasethe life of the system. Have thebrake system flushed and refilledwith Honda DOT 3 brake fluid assoon as possible.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is notcompatible with your car's brakingsystem and can cause extensivedamage.

Brake System

The fluid level should be betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the sideof the reservoir. If the level is at orbelow the MIN mark, your brakesystem needs attention. Have thebrake system inspected for leaks orworn brake pads.

Maintenance

MINMAX

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Clutch System

The fluid should be between theMIN and MAX marks on the side ofthe reservoir. If it is not, add brakefluid to bring it up to that level. Usethe same fluid specified for thebrake system.

Low fluid level can indicate a leak inthe clutch system. Have this systeminspected as soon as possible.

Maintenance

MAX

MIN

Air Cleaner Element

The air cleaner element should bereplaced according to the time anddistance recommendations in themaintenance schedule.

Replacement

The air cleaner element is inside theair cleaner housing in the enginecompartment.

To replace it:

1. Unsnap the four clips and removethe air cleaner housing cover.

2. Remove the old air cleanerelement.

3. Carefully clean the inside of theair cleaner housing with a damprag.

4. Place the new air cleaner elementin the air cleaner housing.

5. Reinstall the air cleaner housingcover, snap the four clips back intoplace.

Maintenance

CLIPS

AIR CLEANER ELEMENT

Hood Latch

PIVOTS

Clean the hood latch assembly with amild cleaner, then lubricate it with amultipurpose grease. Lubricate allthe moving parts, including the pivot.Follow the time and distancerecommendations in theMaintenance Schedule. If you arenot sure how to clean and grease thelatch, contact your Honda dealer.

Maintenance

Battery

Check the condition of your car'sbattery monthly. You should checkthe color of the test indicator window,and for corrosion on the terminals.

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

Check the battery condition bylooking at the test indicator windowon the battery.The label on the battery explains thetest indicator's colors.

Check the battery terminals forcorrosion (a white or yellowishpowder). To remove it, cover theterminals with a solution of bakingsoda and water. It will bubble up andturn brown. When this stops, wash itoff with plain water. Dry off thebattery with a cloth or paper towel.Coat the terminals with grease tohelp prevent future corrosion.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Battery

If the terminals are severely cor-roded, clean them with baking sodaand water. Then use a wrench toloosen and remove the cables fromthe terminals. Always disconnect thenegative ( — ) cable first and recon-nect it last. Clean the battery termi-nals with a terminal cleaning tool orwire brush. Reconnect and tightenthe cables, then coat the terminalswith grease.

If you need to connect the battery toa charger, disconnect both cables toprevent damage to the car'selectrical system.

Charging the battery with the cablesconnected can seriously damage yourcar's electronic controls. Detach thebattery cables before connecting thebattery to a charger.

Maintenance

NOTICE

The battery gives off explosivehydrogen gas during normaloperation.

A spark or flame can cause thebattery to explode with enoughforce to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and aface shield, or have a skilledmechanic do the batterymaintenance.

Wiper Blades

Check the condition of the wiperblades at least every six months.Look for signs of cracking in therubber, or areas that are gettinghard. Replace the blades if you findthese signs, or they leave streaksand unwiped areas when used.

WIPER ARMS

To replace the blade:

1. Raise the wiper arm off thewindshield.

2. Disconnect the blade assemblyfrom the wiper arm by pushing inthe lock tab. Hold it in while youpush the blade assembly towardthe base of the arm.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

LOCK TAB

Wiper Blades

3. Remove the blade from its holderby grasping the tabbed end of theblade. Pull firmly until the tabscome out of the holder.

4. Examine the new wiper blades. Ifthey have no plastic or metal rein-forcement along the back edge,remove the metal reinforcementstrips from the old wiper blade andinstall them in the slots along theedge of the new blade.

5. Slide the new wiper blade into theholder until the tabs lock.

6. Slide the wiper blade assemblyonto the wiper arm. Make sure itlocks in place.

7. Lower the wiper arm down againstthe windshield.

Maintenance

BLADE BLADE

REINFORCEMENT

Wiper Blades

To replace the rear wiper blade:

1. Raise the wiper arm off thewindshield.

2. Pull one end of the blade out fromthe holder.

3. Slide the blade out of the holder.

4. Slide the new blade into the holder.Make sure it is engaged in the slotalong its full length.

5. Insert both ends of the blade intothe holder. Make sure they aresecure.

6. Slide the wiper blade assemblyonto the wiper arm. Make sure itlocks in place.

7. Lower the wiper arm.

Maintenance

Air Conditioning System (Optional)

Your car's air conditioning is a sealedsystem. Any major maintenance,such as recharging, should be doneby a qualified mechanic. You can doa couple of things to make sure theair conditioning works efficiently.

AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER

Periodically check the engine'sradiator and air conditioningcondenser for leaves, insects, anddirt stuck to the front surface. Theseblock the air flow and reduce coolingefficiency. Use a light spray from ahose or a soft brush to remove them.

The condenser and radiator fins bendeasily. Only use a low-pressure sprayor soft-bristle brush to clean them.

Run the air conditioning at least oncea week during the cold weathermonths. Run it for at least tenminutes while you are driving at asteady speed with the engine atnormal operating temperature. Thiscirculates the lubricating oil con-tained in the refrigerant.

If the air conditioning does not get ascold as before, have your dealercheck the system. Recharge thesystem with Refrigerant HFC-134a(R-134a). (See Specifications on page235.)

Whenever you have the air conditioningsystem serviced, make sure the servicefacility uses a refrigerant recyclingsystem. This system captures therefrigerant for reuse. Releasingrefrigerant into the atmosphere candamage the environment.

Maintenance

NOTICENOTICE

Air Conditioning Filter, Drive Belt

Air Conditioning FilterThe air conditioning filter removespollen and dust from outside air theheating and cooling system bringsinto the interior. It should bereplaced according to the time anddistance recommendations in themaintenance schedule.

This filter should be replaced every30,000 miles (48,000 km) undernormal conditions. It should bereplaced every 15,000 miles (24,000km) if you drive primarily in urbanareas that have high concentrationsof soot in the air from industry anddiesel-powered vehicles. Replace itmore often if air flow from theclimate control system becomes lessthan usual. Have the air conditioningfilter replaced by your Honda dealer.

Drive Belt

Check the condition of the drive belt.Examine the edges of each belt forcracks or fraying.Check the tension of each belt bypushing on it with your thumbmidway between the pulleys.

The belts should have the following"play" or deflection.

With Air Conditioning System0.30-0.41 in (7.5 10.5 mm)

Without Air Conditioning System0.33-0.43 in (8.5-11.0 mm)

If you see signs of wear or looseness,have your dealer adjust or replacethe belts.

Maintenance

COMPRESSOR BELT

Tires

To safely operate your car, your tiresmust be the proper type and size, ingood condition with adequate tread,and correctly inflated. The followingpages give more detailed informationon how and when to check airpressure, how to inspect your tiresfor damage and wear, and what to dowhen your tires need to be replaced.

InflationKeeping the tires properly inflatedprovides the best combination ofhandling, tread life and ridingcomfort. Underinflated tires wearunevenly, adversely affect handlingand fuel economy, and are morelikely to fail from being overheated.Overinflated tires can make your carride more harshly, are more prone todamage from road hazards, and wearunevenly.

We recommend that you visuallycheck your tires every day. If youthink a tire might be low, check itimmediately with a tire gauge.

Use a gauge to measure the airpressure at least once a month. Eventires that are in good condition maylose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1to 0.2 kgf/cm2) per month.Remember to check the spare tire atthe same time you check all theother tires.

Check the pressure in the tires whenthey are cold. This means the carhas been parked for at least threehours. If you have to drive the carbefore checking the tire pressure,the tires can still be considered"cold" if you drive less than 1 mile(1.6km).

If you check the pressure when thetires are hot (the car has been drivenseveral miles), you will see readings4 to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4kgf/cm2) higher than the coldreading. This is normal. Do not letair out to match the specified coldpressure. The tire will beunderinflated.

Maintenance

Using tires that are excessivelyworn or improperly inflated cancause a crash in which you canbe seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in thisowner's manual regarding tireinflation and maintenance.

Tires

You should get your own tirepressure gauge and use it wheneveryou check your tire pressures. Thiswill make it easier for you to tell if apressure loss is due to a tire problemand not due to a variation betweengauges.

Recommended Tire Pressures forNormal DrivingThe following chart shows therecommended cold tire pressures formost normal driving conditions andspeeds.

The compact spare tire pressure is:60 psi (420 kPa)

These pressures are also given onthe tire information label on thedriver's doorjamb.

Tubeless tires have some ability toself-seal if they are punctured.However, because leakage is oftenvery slow, you should look closelyfor punctures if a tire starts losingpressure.

Maintenance

Tires

InspectionEvery time you check inflation, youshould also examine the tires fordamage, foreign objects, and wear.

You should look for:

Bumps or bulges in the tread orside of the tire. Replace the tire ifyou find either of these conditions.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the sideof the tire. Replace the tire if youcan see fabric or cord.

Excessive tread wear.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

Your car's tires have wear indicatorsmolded into the tread. When thetread wears down to that point, youwill see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wideband running across the tread. Thisshows there is less than 1/16 inch(1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. Atire that is this worn gives very littletraction on wet roads. You shouldreplace the tire if you can see thetread wear indicator in three or moreplaces around the tire.

MaintenanceIn addition to proper inflation,correct wheel alignment helps todecrease tire wear. If you find a tireis worn unevenly, have your dealercheck the wheel alignment.

The tires were properly balanced bythe factory. They may need to berebalanced at some time before theyare worn out. Have your dealercheck the tires if you feel a consis-tent vibration while driving. A tireshould always be rebalanced if it isremoved from the wheel for repair.

Make sure the installer balances thewheels when you have new tiresinstalled. This increases ridingcomfort and tire life. Your car'soriginal tires were dynamic or "spin"balanced at the factory. For bestresults, have the installer perform adynamic balance.

Maintenance

Tires

Tire Rotation

To help increase tire life anddistribute wear more evenly, youshould have the tires rotated every7,500 miles (12,000 km). Move thetires to the positions shown in thechart each time they are rotated.

When shopping for replacementtires, you may find that some tiresare "directional." This means theyare designed to rotate only in onedirection. If you use directional tires,they should be rotated only front-to-back.

Replacing Tires and WheelsThe tires that came with your carwere selected to match the perform-ance capabilities of the car whileproviding the best combination ofhandling, ride comfort, and long life.You should replace them with radialtires of the same size, load range,speed rating, and maximum cold tirepressure rating (as shown on thetire's sidewall). Mixing radial andbias-ply tires on your car can reduceits braking ability, traction, andsteering accuracy.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Front Front

(For Non-directionalTires and Wheels)

(For DirectionalTires and Wheels)

Tires

It is best to replace all four tires atthe same time. If that is not possibleor necessary, then replace the twofront tires or the two rear tires as apair. Replacing just one tire canseriously affect your car's handling.

If you ever need to replace a wheel,make sure the wheel's specificationsmatch those of the original wheelthat came on your car. Replacementwheels are available at your Hondadealer.

Wheels and Tires

Wheels:14x51/2 JJ

Tires:P165/65R1478S

See page 236 for information aboutDOT Tire Quality Grading.

Winter DrivingTires that are marked "M+S" or"All Season" on the sidewall have anall-weather tread design. Theyshould be suitable for most winterdriving conditions. Tires withoutthese markings are designed foroptimum traction in dry conditions.They may not provide adequateperformance in winter driving.For the best performance in snowyor icy conditions, you should installsnow tires or tire chains. They maybe required by local laws undercertain conditions.

Maintenance

Installing improper tires on yourcar can affect handling andstability. This can cause a crashin which you can be seriouslyhurt or killed.

Always use the size and type oftires recommended in thisowner's manual.

Tires

Snow TiresIf you mount snow tires on yourHonda, make sure they are radialtires of the same size and load rangeas the original tires. Mount snowtires on all four wheels to balanceyour car's handling in all weatherconditions. Keep in mind the tractionprovided by snow tires on dry roadsmay not be as high as your car'soriginal equipment tires. You shoulddrive cautiously even when the roadsare clear. Check with the tire dealerfor maximum speed recommenda-tions.

Tire ChainsMount snow chains on your vehiclewhen warranted by driving condi-tions or required by local laws. Makesure the chains are the correct sizefor your tires. Install them only onthe front tires. If metal chains areused, they must be SAE class "S."Cable type traction devices can alsobe used.

When installing chains, follow themanufacturer's instructions andmount them as tightly as you can.Drive slowly with chains installed. Ifyou hear the chains contacting thebody or chassis, stop and investigate.Make sure the chains are installedtightly, and that they are notcontacting the brake lines orsuspension. Remove the chains assoon as you begin driving on clearedroads.

Chains of the wrong size or that areimproperly installed can damage yourcar's brake lines, suspension, body, andwheels. Stop driving if you hear thechains hitting any pan of the car.

Maintenance

NOTICE

Lights

Check the operation of your car'sexterior lights at least once a month.A burned out bulb can create anunsafe condition by reducing yourcar's visibility and the ability tosignal your intentions to otherdrivers.

HEADLIGHT

FRONT PARKING LIGHT

Maintenance

SIDE MARKER LIGHT

TURN SIGNAL LIGHT

Lights

HIGH-MOUNT BRAKE LIGHT STOP/TAILLIGHT

LICENSE PLATE LIGHTS TURN SIGNALLIGHT

BACK-UP LIGHT

Check the following:

Headlights (low and high beam)Parking lightsTaillightsBrake lightsHigh-mount brake lightTurn signalsBack-up lightsHazard light functionLicense plate lightSide marker lightsDaytime running lights(Canadian models)

If you find any bulbs are burned out,replace them as soon as possible.Refer to the chart on page 235 todetermine what type of replacementbulb is needed.

Maintenance

Lights

Replacing a Headlight BulbYour car has halogen headlightbulbs, one on each side. Whenreplacing a bulb, handle it by its steelbase and protect the glass fromcontact with your skin or hardobjects. If you touch the glass, cleanit with denatured alcohol and a cleancloth.

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hotwhen lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratchon the glass can cause the bulb tooverheat and shatter.

HOLDER

1. Open the hood.

If you need to change the head-light bulb on the driver's side,remove the engine coolantreservoir tank by pulling it out ofits holder.

WEATHER SEAL

CONNECTOR HOLD-DOWN WIRE

2. Remove the electrical connectorfrom the bulb by squeezing theconnector on both sides to unlockthe tab. Pull the connector straightoff.

3. Remove the rubber weather sealby pulling on the tab.

Maintenance

BULB

NOTICE

Lights

4. Unclip the end of the hold-downwire from its slot. Pivot it out ofthe way and remove the bulb.

5. Insert the new bulb into the hole,making sure the tabs are in theirslots. Pivot the hold-down wireback in place and clip the end intothe slot.

6. Install the rubber seal over theback of the headlight assembly.Make sure it is right side up; it ismarked "TOP."

7. Push the electrical connector ontothe tabs of the new bulb. Makesure it locks in place.Turn on the headlights to test thenew bulb.

8. Reinstall the radiator reserve tank.

Replacing the Front ParkingLights

1. Remove the socket from theheadlight assembly by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

2. Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket.

3. Install the new bulb into thesocket.

4. Insert the socket back into theheadlight assembly. Turn itclockwise to lock it in place.

5. Test the lights to make sure thenew bulb is working.

Replacing the Front Side Marker/Turn Signal and Parking LightBulb1. If you are changing the bulb on

the driver's side, start the engine,turn the steering wheel all the wayto the right, and turn off theengine. If you are changing thebulb on the passenger's side, turnthe steering wheel to the left.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Lights

2. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver toremove the screw from the top ofthe fender.

3. Pull the inner fender cover back.

4. Remove the socket from theheadlight assembly by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

5. Remove the burned out bulb fromthe socket by pushing it in andturning counterclockwise until itunlocks.

6. Install the new bulb in the socket.Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

7. Insert the socket back into theheadlight assembly. Turn itclockwise to lock it in place.


9. Put the inner fender cover in place.Tighten the screw securely.

Maintenance

Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs

1. Open the hatch.

2. Pull the cover back.

3. Loosen the nut holding the rearlight assembly.

4. Remove the two covers. Removethe two screws holding the rearlight assembly. Remove the lightassembly.

5. Determine which bulb, stop/taillight, back-up light, side markerlight or turn signal is burned out.Remove the socket lor that bulbby turning counterclockwise.


7. Push the new bulb straight intothe socket until it bottoms.

Maintenance

CONTINUED

COVER

Lights

8. Reinstall the socket into the lightassembly by turning it clockwiseuntil it locks.


10.Reinstall the light assembly andtighten the two screws and nut.

11.Reinstall the two covers.

Replacing a Rear License Bulb

1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver toremove the two screws holdingthe license plate light lens.


3. Push the new bulb straight intothe socket until it bottoms.

4. Turn on the parking lights andcheck that the new bulb isworking.

5. Reinstall the two screws andtighten them securely.

Maintenance

Lights

Replacing an Interior Light Bulb

1. Remove the lens by carefullyprying on the edge of the lens inthe middle with a fingernail file ora small flat-tip screwdriver. Do notpry on the edge of the housingaround the lens.

2. Remove the bulb by pulling itstraight out of its metal tabs.

3. Push the new bulb into the metaltabs. Snap the lens back in place.

Replacing the Cargo Area Light

1. Remove the lens by carefullyprying on the edge of the lens inthe middle with a fingernail file ora small flat-tip screwdriver. Do notpry on the edge of the housingaround the lens.

Maintenance

INTERIOR LIGHT

Storing Your Car

If you need to park your car for anextended period (more than onemonth), there are several things youshould do to prepare it for storage.Proper preparation helps preventdeterioration and makes it easier toget your car back on the road. Ifpossible, store your car indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter(see page 161).

Wash and dry the exteriorcompletely.

Clean the interior. Make sure thecarpeting, floor mats, etc. arecompletely dry.

Leave the parking brake off. Putthe transmission in Reverse.

Block the rear wheels.

If the car is to be stored for alonger period, it should besupported on jackstands so thetires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (ifthe car is being stored indoors).

Disconnect the battery.

Support the front and rear wiperblade arms with a folded towel orrag so they do not touch thewindshield.

To minimize sticking, apply asilicone spray lubricant to all doorand hatch seals. Also, apply a bodywax to the painted surfaces thatmate with the door and hatch seals.

Cover the car with a "breathable"cover, one made from a porousmaterial such as cotton.Nonporous materials, such asplastic sheeting, trap moisture,which can damage the paint.

Drive your car every month forabout 30 minutes. This will keepthe IMA battery charged and ingood condition.

If you store your car for 12 monthsor longer, have your Honda dealerperform the inspections called for inthe 24 months/30,000 miles (48,000km) maintenance schedule (NormalConditions) as soon as you take itout of storage (see page 150). Thereplacements called for in themaintenance schedule are notneeded unless the car has actuallyreached that time or mileage.

Maintenance

Appearance Care

Regular cleaning and polishing ofyour Honda helps to keep it "new"looking. This section gives you hintson how to clean your car andpreserve its appearance: the paint,brightwork, wheels and interior. Alsoincluded are several things you cando to help prevent corrosion.

Exterior Care.................................. 198Roof Antenna............................. 198Rear Wheel Skirt....................... 198Washing...................................... 199Waxing........................................ 200Paint Touch-up........................... 200

Interior Care................................... 201Carpeting.................................... 201Fabric.......................................... 201Vinyl............................................ 201Seat Belts.................................... 201Windows..................................... 202Air Fresheners........................... 202

Corrosion Protection..................... 202Body Repairs.................................. 203

Appearance Care

Exterior Care

Roof Antenna

Before using an automatic car wash,remove the radio antenna so it doesnot get damaged. Remove theantenna by unscrewing it. When youreinstall the antenna, tighten itsecurely.

Rear Wheel Skirt

If an automatic car wash has tirecleaning brushes, remove the skirtscovering the rear wheels so they willnot be damaged. See page 208 forhow to remove and install the skirts.

Appearance Care

Exterior Care

Although almost all exterior panels onyour Honda are made of hardenedaluminum, they may dent more easilythan steel under some conditions.Exercise care when leaning on or overany part of the body.

WashingFrequent washing helps preserveyour car's beauty. Dirt and grit canscratch the paint, while tree sap andbird droppings can permanently ruinthe finish.

Wash your car in a shady area, not indirect sunlight. If the car is parked inthe sun, move it into the shade andlet the exterior cool down before youstart.

Only use the solvents and cleanersrecommended in this Owner'sManual.

Chemical solvents and strong cleanerscan damage the paint, metal, andplastic on your car.

Rinse the car thoroughly with coolwater to remove loose dirt.

Fill a bucket with cool water. Mixin a mild detergent, such asdishwashing liquid or a productmade especially for car washing.

Wash the car using the water anddetergent solution and a soft-bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth.Start at the top and work your waydown. Rinse frequently.

Check the body for road tar, treesap, etc. Remove these stains withtar remover or turpentine. Rinse itoff immediately so it does notharm the finish. Remember to re-wax these areas, even if the rest ofthe car does not need waxing.

When you have washed and rinsedthe whole exterior, dry it with achamois or soft towel. Letting itair-dry will cause dulling and waterspots.

As you dry the car, inspect it forchips and scratches that could allowcorrosion to start. Repair them withtouch-up paint (see page 200).

Appearance Care

NOTICE NOTICE

Exterior Care

WaxingAlways wash and dry the whole carbefore waxing it. You should waxyour car, including the metal trim,whenever water sits on the surfacein large patches. It should form intobeads or droplets after waxing.

You should use a quality liquid orpaste wax. Apply it according to theinstructions on the container. Ingeneral, there are two types ofproducts:

Waxes — A wax coats the finish andprotects it from damage by exposureto sunlight, air pollution, etc. Youshould use a wax on your Hondawhen it is new.

Polishes — Polishes and cleaner/waxes can restore the shine to paintthat has oxidized and lost some of itsshine. They normally contain mildabrasives and solvents that removethe top layer of the finish. Youshould use a polish on your Honda ifthe finish does not have its originalshine after using a wax.

Cleaning tar, insects, etc. withremovers also takes off the wax.Remember to re-wax those areas,even if the rest of the car does notneed waxing.

Aluminum WheelsClean your Honda's aluminum alloywheels as you do the rest of theexterior. Wash them with the samesolution, and rinse them thoroughly.

The wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum fromcorroding and tarnishing. Usingharsh chemicals, including some

commercial wheel cleaners, or stiffbrushes can damage this clear-coat.Only use a mild detergent and softbrush or sponge to clean the wheels.

Paint Touch-upYour dealer has touch-up paint tomatch your car's color. The colorcode is printed on a sticker on thedriver's doorjamb. Take this code toyour dealer so you are sure to getthe correct color.

Inspect your car frequently for chipsor scratches in the paint. Repairthem right away to prevent corrosionof the metal underneath. Use thetouch-up paint only on small chipsand scratches. More extensive paintdamage should be repaired by aprofessional.

Appearance Care

Interior Care

CarpetingVacuum the carpeting frequently toremove dirt. Ground-in dirt will makethe carpet wear out faster.Periodically shampoo the carpet tokeep it looking new. Use one of thefoam-type carpet cleaners on themarket. Follow the instructions thatcome with the cleaner, applying itwith a sponge or soft brush. Keepthe carpeting as dry as possible bynot adding water to the foam.

FabricVacuum dirt and dust out of thematerial frequently. For generalcleaning, use a solution of mild soapand lukewarm water, letting it air dry.To clean off stubborn spots, use acommercially-available fabric cleaner.Test it on a hidden area of the fabricfirst, to make sure it does not bleachor stain the fabric. Follow theinstructions that come with thecleaner.

VinylRemove dirt and dust with a vacuumcleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a softcloth dampened in a solution of mildsoap and water. Use the samesolution with a soft-bristle brush onmore difficult spots. You can also usecommercially-available spray orfoam-type vinyl cleaners.

Seat BeltsIf your seat belts get dirty, you canuse a soft brush with a mixture ofmild soap and warm water to cleanthem. Do not use bleach, dye, orcleaning solvents. They can weakenthe belt material. Let the belts air-dry before you use the car.

LOOP

Dirt build-up in the loops of the seatbelt anchors can cause the belts toretract slowly. Wipe the insides ofthe loops with a clean clothdampened in mild soap and warmwater or isopropyl alcohol.

Appearance Care

Interior Care, Corrosion Protection

WindowsClean the windows, inside and out,with a commercially-available glasscleaner. You can also use a mixtureof one part white vinegar to ten partswater. This will remove the haze thatbuilds up on the inside of thewindows. Use a soft cloth or papertowels to clean all glass and clearplastic surfaces.

The rear window defogger wires arebonded to the inside of the glass.Wiping vigorously up-and-down candislodge and break the defogger wires.When cleaning the rear window, usegentle pressure and wipe side-to-side.

Air FreshenersIf you want to use an air freshener/deodorizer in the interior of your car,it is best to use a solid type. Someliquid air fresheners contain chemi-cals that may cause parts of theinterior trim and fabric to crack ordiscolor.

If you use a liquid air freshener,make sure you fasten it securely so itdoes not spill as you drive.

Corrosion ProtectionTwo factors normally contribute tocausing corrosion in your car:

1. Moisture trapped in body cavities.Dirt and road salt that collects inhollows on the underside of thecar stays damp, promotingcorrosion in that area.

2. Removal of paint and protectivecoatings from the exterior andunderside of the car.

Many corrosion-preventive measuresare built into your Honda. You canhelp keep your car from corrodingby performing some simple periodicmaintenance:

Repair chips and scratches in thepaint as soon as you discover them.

Appearance Care

NOTICE

Corrosion Protection, Body Repairs

Inspect and clean out the drainholes in the bottom of the doorsand body.

Check the floor coverings fordampness. Carpeting and floormats may remain damp for a longtime, especially in winter. Thisdampness can eventually causethe floor panels to corrode.

Use a high-pressure spray to cleanthe underside of your car. This isespecially important in areas thatuse road salt in winter. It is also agood idea in humid climates andareas subject to salt air.

Have the corrosion-preventivecoatings on the underside of yourcar inspected and repairedperiodically.

Body RepairsBody repairs can affect your car'sresistance to corrosion. If your carneeds repairs after a collision, payclose attention to the parts used inthe repair and the quality of thework.

Make sure the repair facility usesGenuine Honda replacement bodyparts. Some companies make sheetmetal pieces that seem to duplicatethe original Honda body parts, butare actually inferior in fit, finish, andcorrosion resistance. Once installed,they do not give the same high-quality appearance.

When reporting your collision to theinsurance company, tell them youwant Genuine Honda parts used inthe repair. Although most insurersrecognize the quality of originalparts, some may try to specify thatthe repairs be done with otheravailable parts. You should investi-gate this before any repairs havebegun.

Take your car to your authorizedHonda dealer for inspection after therepairs are completed. Your dealercan make sure that quality materialswere used, and that corrosion-preventive coatings were applied toall repaired and replaced parts.

Appearance Care

204

Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more-common problems that motoristsexperience with their vehicles. Itgives you information about how tosafely evaluate the problem and whatto do to correct it. If the problem hasstranded you on the side of the road,you may be able to get going again.If not, you will also find instructionson getting your car towed.

Compact Spare Tire....................... 206Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 207If Your Engine Won't Start........... 213

Nothing Happens or theStarter Motor OperatesVery Slowly............................. 213

The Starter OperatesNormally................................. 214

Jump Starting................................. 214If Your Engine Overheats............. 217Low Oil Pressure Indicator.......... 218Charging System Indicator........... 219Malfunction Indicator Lamp ........ 220Brake System Indicator................ 221Fuses............................................... 222

Checking and Replacing........... 223Emergency Towing....................... 228


Compact Spare Tire

Your car has a compact spare tirethat takes up less space. Use thisspare tire as a temporary replace-ment only. Get your regular tirerepaired or replaced and put back onyour car as soon as you can.

Check the inflation pressure of thecompact spare tire every time youcheck the other tires. It should beinflated to:60 psi (420 kPa)

Follow these precautions wheneveryou are using the compact spare tire:

Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h)under any circumstances.

This tire gives a harsher ride andless traction on some road sur-faces than the regular tire. Usegreater caution while driving onthis tire.

Do not mount snow chains on thecompact spare.

The wheel of the compact sparetire is designed especially to fityour car. Do not use your sparetire on another vehicle unless it isthe same make and model.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

The compact spare tire has a shortertread life than a regular tire. Replaceit when you can see the tread wearindicator bars. The replacementshould be the same size and designtire, mounted on the same wheel.The compact spare tire is notdesigned to be mounted on a regularwheel, and the compact wheel is notdesigned for mounting a regular tire.


TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

Changing a Flat Tire

If you have a flat tire while driving,stop in a safe place to change it.Stopping in traffic or on the shoulderof a busy road is dangerous. Driveslowly along the shoulder until youget to an exit or an area to stop thatis far away from the traffic lanes.

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 lightsand turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0). Have all thepassengers get out of the car whileyou change the tire.

3. Open the hatch. Raise the cargoarea floor by lifting up on the backedge. 4. Remove the storage box from the

cargo area well.

5. Take the tool kit from the sparetire well. Remove the jack (in thejack cover) from the inside of thespare tire.

6. Unscrew the wing bolt and takethe spare tire out of its well.

CONTINUED


The car can easily roll off thejack, seriously injuring anyoneunderneath.

Follow the directions forchanging a tire exactly, andnever get under the car when itis supported only by the jack.

FLOOR BOARD TOOL KIT

SPARE TIRE

JACK

STORAGE BOX


1. Rear tire only:Use a flat-tipped screwdriver toloosen the two stud fastenersholding the rear wheel skirt.

2. Pull the rear wheel skirtdownward.

Do not catch your clothes orhands on the hooks on the rearfender when you replace thewheel.

CENTER CAP

3. Remove the center cap from thewheel with the end of theextension or a flat-tippedscrewdriver.

4. Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2turn with the wheel wrench.


REAR WHEEL SKIRT

STUDFASTENER


JACKING POINT

5. Locate the jacking point nearestthe tire you need to change. It ispointed to by an arrow molded intothe underside of the body. Placethe jack under the jacking point.Turn the end bracket clockwiseuntil the top of the jack contactsthe jacking point. Make sure thejacking point tab is resting in thejack notch.

WHEEL WRENCH EXTENSION

6. Use the extension and wheelwrench as shown to raise the caruntil the flat tire is off the ground.

7. Remove the wheel nuts and flattire. Temporarily place the flat tireon the ground with the outsidesurface of the wheel facing up.You could scratch the wheel if youput it face down.

CONTINUED



8. Before mounting the spare tire,wipe any dirt off the mountingsurface of the wheel and hub witha clean cloth. Wipe the hubcarefully, it may be hot fromdriving.

9. Put on the spare tire. Put thewheel nuts back on finger-tight,then tighten them in a crisscrosspattern with the wheel wrenchuntil the wheel is firmly againstthe hub. Do not try to tightenthem fully.

10.Lower the car to the ground andremove the jack.



11.Tighten the wheel nuts securely inthe same crisscross pattern. Havethe wheel nut torque checked atthe nearest automotive servicefacility.Tighten the wheel nuts to:80 lbf.ft (108N.m, 11 kgf.m)

Do not catch your clothes orhands on the hooks on the rearfender when you replace thewheel.

12.To install the rear wheel skirt,place the skirt against the body.Line up the slots on the skirt withthe tabs in the body, then push theskirt upward.

Make sure the wheel skirt isinstalled correctly.

13.Tighten the two stud fasteners.Align the marks on the studfastener with the marks on thewheel skirt.

It is not recommended to drive your car-without the wheel skirts.It will affect the fuel consumption.

CONTINUED


TABSLOT


WING BOLT SPACER CONE

14.Remove the center cap.Place the flat tire face down in thespare tire well.

15.Remove the spacer cone from thewing bolt, turn it over, and put itback on the bolt.

16.Secure the flat tire by screwingthe wing bolt back into its hole.

17.Store the jack and tool kit back inthe spare tire well.

18.Store the wheel cover or centercap in the spare tire well. Makesure it does not get scratched ordamaged.

19.Install the storage box in the cargoarea well.

20.Lower the cargo area floor, thenclose the hatch.


Loose items can fly around theinterior in a crash and couldseriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack and toolssecurely before driving.

If Your Engine Won't Start

Diagnosing why your engine won'tstart falls into two areas, dependingon what you hear when you turn thekey to START (III):

You hear nothing, or almostnothing. The engine's startermotor does not operate at all, oroperates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motoroperating normally, or the startermotor sounds like it is spinningfaster than normal, but the enginedoes not start up and run.

Nothing Happens or the StarterMotor Operates Very SlowlyWhen you turn the ignition switch toSTART (III), you do not hear thenormal noise of the engine trying tostart. You may hear a clicking soundor series of clicks, or nothing at all.Check these things:

Your car has the ImmobilizerSystem. You should use aproperly-coded master or valet keyto start the engine (see page 66).A key that is not properly codedwill cause the immobilizer systemindicator in the dash panel to blinkrapidly.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).Turn on the headlights and checktheir brightness. If the headlightsare very dim or don't light at all,the battery is discharged. SeeJump Starting on page 214 .

Turn the ignition switch to START(III). If the headlights do not dim,check the condition of the fuses. Ifthe fuses are OK, there is proba-bly something wrong with theelectrical circuit for the ignitionswitch or starter motor. You willneed a qualified technician todetermine the problem. (SeeEmergency Towing on page 228 .)

If the headlights dim noticeably orgo out when you try to start theengine, either the battery is dis-charged or the connections arecorroded. Check the condition ofthe battery and terminal connec-tions (see page 175 ). You canthen try jump starting the car froma booster battery (see page 214 ).


If Your Engine Won't Start, Jump Starting

The Starter Operates NormallyIn this case, the starter motor'sspeed sounds normal, or even fasterthan normal, when you turn theignition switch to START (III), butthe engine does not run.

Are you using the proper startingprocedure? Refer to Starting theEngine on page 133 .

Do you have fuel? Turn theignition switch to ON (II) for aminute and watch the fuel gauge.The low fuel level warning lightmay not be working, so you werenot reminded to fill the tank.

There may be an electricalproblem, such as no power to thefuel pump. Check all the fuses(see page 222).

If you find nothing wrong, you willneed a qualified technician to findthe problem. See EmergencyTowing on page 228 .

Jump StartingIf your car's battery has run down,you may be able to start the engineby using a booster battery. Althoughthis seems like a simple procedure,you should take several precautions.

To jump start your car, follow thesedirections closely:

1. Open the hood and check thephysical condition of the battery(see page 175 ). In very coldweather, check the condition ofthe electrolyte. If it seems slushyor like ice, do not try jump startinguntil it thaws.

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

2. Turn off all the electrical acces-sories: heater, A/C, stereo system,lights, etc.Put the transmission in Neutraland set the parking brake.


NOTICE

A battery can explode if you donot follow the correct procedure,seriously injuring anyonenearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames,and smoking materials awayfrom the battery.

Jump Starting

3. Connect one jumper cable to thepositive ( + ) terminal on thebooster battery. Connect the otherend to the positive ( + ) terminalon your Honda's battery.

4. Connect the second jumper cableto the negative ( — ) terminal onthe booster battery. Connect theother end to the grounding strapas shown. Do not connect thisjumper cable to any other part ofthe engine.

5. If the booster battery is in anothervehicle, have an assistant startthat vehicle and run it at a fast idle.

BOOSTER BATTERY

6. Start your car. If the starter motorstill operates slowly, check thejumper cable connections to makesure they have good metal-to-metal contact.

7. Once your car is running, discon-nect the negative cable from yourcar, then from the booster battery.Disconnect the positive cable fromyour car, then the booster battery.


If Your Engine Overheats

The pointer of your car's tempera-ture gauge should stay in the mid-range under most conditions. It maygo higher if you are driving up a longsteep hill on a very hot day. If itclimbs to the red mark, you shoulddetermine the reason.

Driving with the temperature gaugepointer at the red mark can causeserious damage to your engine.

Your car can overheat for severalreasons, such as lack of coolant or amechanical problem. The onlyindication may be the temperaturegauge climbing to or above the redmark. Or you may see steam orspray coming from under the hood.In either case, you should takeimmediate action.

1. Safely pull to the side of the road.Put the transmission in Neutraland set the parking brake. Turnoff the heating and cooling systemand all other accessories. Turn onthe hazard warning indicators.

2. If you see steam and/or spraycorning from under the hood, turnoff the engine.

3. If you do not see steam or spray,leave the engine running andwatch the temperature gauge. Ifthe high heat is due to overloading(climbing a long, steep hill on ahot day with the A/C running, forexample), the engine should startto cool down almost immediately.If it does, wait until the tempera-ture gauge comes down to the mid-point then continue driving.


NOTICE

Steam and spray from anoverheated engine canseriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steamis coming out.

If Your Engine Overheats

4. If the temperature gauge stays atthe red mark, turn off the engine.

5. Wait until you see no more signsof steam or spray, then open thehood.

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, itmust be repaired before youcontinue driving (see EmergencyTowing on page 228 ).

7. If you don't find an obvious leak,check the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank (see page105 ). If the level is below the

MIN mark, add coolant to halfwaybetween the MIN and MAX marks.

8. If there was no coolant in thereserve tank, you may also have toadd coolant to the radiator. Let theengine cool down until the pointer

reaches the middle of the tempera-ture gauge, or lower, before check-ing the radiator.

9. Using gloves or a large heavycloth, turn the radiator capcounterclockwise, without pushingdown, to the first stop. Thisreleases any remaining pressure inthe cooling system. After thepressure releases, push down onthe cap and turn it until it comesoff.

10.Start the engine and set thetemperature control dial tomaximum. Add coolant to theradiator up to the base of the fillerneck. If you do not have theproper coolant mixture available,you can add plain water.Remember to have the coolingsystem drained and refilled withthe proper mixture as soon as youcan.

11.Put the radiator cap back ontightly. Run the engine and watchthe temperature gauge. If it goesback to the red mark, the engineneeds repair. (See EmergencyTowing on page 228 .)

12.If the temperature stays normal,check the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank. If it hasgone down, add coolant to theMAX mark. Put the cap back ontightly.


Removing the radiator capwhile the engine is hot cancause the coolant to spray out,seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine andradiator cool down beforeremoving the radiator cap.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

This indicator should light when theignition switch is ON (II), and go outafter the engine starts. It shouldnever come on when the engine isrunning. If it starts flashing, itindicates that the oil pressuredropped very low for a moment, thenrecovered. If the indicator stays onwith the engine running, it showsthat the engine has lost oil pressureand serious engine damage ispossible. In either case, you shouldtake immediate action.

Running the engine with low oilpressure can cause serious mechanicaldamage almost immediately. Turn offthe engine as soon as you can safely getthe car stopped.

1. Safely pull off the road and shutoff the engine. Turn on the hazardwarning indicators.

2. Let the car sit for a minute. Openthe hood and check the oil level(see page 122 ). Although oil leveland oil pressure are not directlyconnected, an engine that is verylow on oil can lose pressure duringcornering and other drivingmaneuvers.

3. If necessary, add oil to bring thelevel back to the full mark on thedipstick (see page 159 ).

4. Start the engine and watch the oilpressure indicator. If the lightdoes not go out within ten seconds,turn off the engine. There is amechanical problem that needs tobe repaired before you cancontinue driving. (See EmergencyTowing on page 228 .)

The engine running generates theoil pressure.When the auto idle stop isactivated, the engine is stopped.But the low oil pressure indicatordoes not light.


NOTICE

Charging System Indicator

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

This indicator should come on whenthe ignition switch is ON (II), and goout after the engine starts. If itcomes on brightly when the engineis running, it indicates that thecharging system has stoppedcharging the battery.

Immediately turn off all electricalaccessories: A/C, rear defogger, etc.Try not to use other electrically-operated controls such as the radio.Keep the engine running and takeextra care not to stall it. Starting theengine will discharge the batteryrapidly.

By eliminating as much of theelectrical load as possible, you candrive several miles (kilometers)before the battery is too dischargedto keep the engine running. Drive toa service station or garage whereyou can get technical assistance.


Malfunction Indicator Lamp

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

This indicator comes on for a fewseconds when you turn the ignitionswitch ON (II). If it comes on at anyother time, it indicates one of theengine's emissions control systemsmay have a problem. Even thoughyou may feel no difference in yourcar's performance, it can reduceyour fuel economy and cause yourcar to put out excessive emissions.Continued operation may causeserious damage.

If you have recently refueled yourcar, the cause of this indicatorcoming on could be a loose ormissing fuel fill cap. Check the capand tighten it until it clicks severaltimes. Replace the fuel fill cap if it ismissing. Tightening the cap will notmake the indicator turn offimmediately; it takes three drivingtrips.

If the indicator remains on past threedriving trips, or the fuel cap was notloose or missing, have the carchecked by the dealer as soon aspossible. Drive moderately until thedealer has inspected the problem.Avoid full-throttle acceleration anddriving at high speed.

You should also have the dealerinspect your car if this indicatorcomes on repeatedly, even though itmay turn off as you continue driving.

If you keep driving with themalfunction indicator lamp on, you candamage your car's emissions controlsand engine. Those repairs may not becovered by your car's warranties.


NOTICE

Brake System Indicator

BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*

The Brake System Indicator comeson when you turn the ignition ON(II). If the parking brake is not set, itgoes off after you start the engine. Ifthe parking brake is set, it goes offwhen you fully release the parkingbrake with the engine running.

If it comes on at any other time, itindicates a problem with the car'sbrake system. In most cases, theproblem is a low fluid level in thebrake fluid reservoir. Press lightly onthe brake pedal to see if it feelsnormal. If it does, check the brakefluid level the next time you stop at aservice station (see page 171). If thefluid level is low, take the car to yourdealer and have the brake systeminspected for leaks or worn brakepads.

However, if the brake pedal does notfeel normal, you should takeimmediate action. Because of thebrake system's dual-circuit design, aproblem in one part of the systemwill still give you braking at twowheels. You will feel the brake pedalgo down much farther before the carbegins to slow down, and you willhave to press harder on the pedal.The distance needed to stop will bemuch longer.

Slow down by shifting to a lowergear, and pull to the side of the roadwhen it is safe. Because of thelonger distance needed to stop, it ishazardous to drive the car. Youshould have it towed, and repaired assoon as possible. (See EmergencyTowing on page 228 .)

If you must drive the car a shortdistance in this condition, driveslowly and cautiously.


* U.S. indicator shown

Fuses

All the electrical circuits in your carhave fuses to protect them from ashort circuit or overload. Thesefuses are located in two fuse boxes.

INTERIOR

The interior fuse is underneath thedashboard on the driver's side.Remove the storage pocket byswinging the lid down, pushing up,and pulling it straight out of itshinges.

TAB UNDER-HOOD

The under-hood fuse box is locatedin the engine compartment. To openit, push the tab as shown.


Fuses

Checking and Replacing FusesIf something electrical in your carstops working, the first thing youshould check for is a blown fuse.Determine from the chart on pages225 and 226, or the diagram on thefuse box lid, which fuse or fusescontrol that component. Check thosefuses first, but check all the fusesbefore deciding that a blown fuse isnot the cause. Replace any blownfuses and check the component'soperation.

1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK(0). Make sure the headlights andall other accessories are off.

2. Remove the cover from the fusebox.

FUSE

3. Check each of the large fuses inthe under-hood fuse box bylooking through the top at the wireinside. Removing these fusesrequires a Phillips-head screw-driver.

4. Check the smaller fuses in theunder-hood fuse box and all thefuses in the interior fuse boxes bypulling out each fuse with the fusepuller provided in the under-hoodfuse box.

CONTINUED


BLOWN

FUSE PULLER

Fuses

5. Look for a burned wire inside thefuse. If it is burned, replace it withone of the spare fuses of the samerating or lower.

If you cannot drive the car withoutfixing the problem, and you do nothave a spare fuse, take a fuse of thesame rating or a lower rating fromone of the other circuits. Make sureyou can do without that circuittemporarily (such as the accessorypower socket or radio).

If you replace the blown fuse with aspare fuse that has a lower rating, itmight blow out again. This does notindicate anything wrong. Replace thefuse with one of the correct rating assoon as you can.

Replacing a fuse with one that has ahigher rating greatly increases thechances of damaging the electricalsystem. If you do not have a replace-ment fuse with the proper rating for thecircuit, install one with a lower rating.

6. If the replacement fuse of thesame rating blows in a short time,there is probably a seriouselectrical problem in your car.Leave the blown fuse in thatcircuit and have your car checkedby a qualified mechanic.


BLOWN NOTICE

Fuses

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

* : Canadian model only

CONTINUED


Fuses

UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX


If Your Car Gets Stuck

If your car gets stuck in sand, mud,or snow, call a towing service to pullit out (see page 228).

For very short distances, such asfreeing the car, you can use thedetachable towing hook that mountson the anchor in the front bumper.

To use the towing hook:

1. Remove the cover from thebumper.

2. Remove the towing hook andwheel wrench from the tool box.

3. Screw the towing hook into thehole and tighten it securely byhand.


Emergency Towing

If your car needs to be towed, call aprofessional towing service or, if youbelong to one, an organization thatprovides roadside assistance. Nevertow your car behind another vehiclewith just a rope or chain. It is verydangerous.

There are three popular types ofprofessional towing equipment.

Flat-bed Equipment — The operatorloads your car on the back of a truck.This is the best way to transportyour Honda.

Wheel-Lift Equipment — The towtruck uses two pivoting arms that gounder the tires (front or rear) and liftthem off the ground. The other twotires remain on the ground. This isan acceptable way to tow yourHonda.

Sling-type Equipment — The towtruck uses metal cables with hooks

on the ends. These hooks go aroundparts of the frame or suspension andthe cables lift that end of the car offthe ground. Your car's suspensionand body can be seriously damaged.This method of towing isunacceptable.

If your Honda cannot be transportedby flat-bed, it should be towed bywheel-lift equipment with the frontwheels off the ground. If due todamage, your car must be towedwith the front wheels on the ground,do the following:

Release the parking brake.Shift the transmission to Neutral.

Improper towing preparation willdamage the transmission. Follow theabove procedure exactly. If you cannotshift the transmission, your car must betransported with the front wheels offthe ground.

With the front wheels on the ground,it is best to tow the car no fartherthan 50 miles (80 km), and keep thespeed below 35 mph (55 km/h).

If your car is equipped with a frontspoiler, remove it before towing so itis not damaged.


NOTICE

Emergency Towing

If you decide to tow your car with allfour wheels on the ground, makesure you use a properly-designed andattached tow bar. Prepare the car fortowing as described above, and leavethe ignition switch in Accessory (I)so the steering wheel does not lock.Make sure the radio and any itemsplugged into the accessory powersocket are turned off so they do notrun down the battery.

The steering system can be damaged ifthe steering wheel is locked. Leave theignition switch in Accessory (I), andmake sure the steering wheel turnsfreely before you begin towing.

Trying to lift or tow your car by thebumpers will cause serious damage.The bumpers are not designed tosupport the car's weight.


NOTICE

NOTICE

230

Technical Information

The diagrams in this section giveyou the dimensions and capacities ofyour Honda, and the locations of theidentification numbers. The expla-nations of several electronic andmechanical systems on your Hondaare for the more technically-orientedowner.

Identification Numbers................. 232Specifications................................. 234DOT Tire Quality Grading

(U.S. Vehicles)....................... 236Uniform Tire Quality

Grading................................... 236Treadwear.................................. 236Traction....................................... 236Temperature ............................. 237

Oxygenated Fuels.......................... 238Driving in Foreign Countries....... 239Emissions Controls........................ 240

The Clean Air Act...................... 240Crankcase Emissions Control

System..................................... 240Evaporative Emissions Control

System..................................... 240Onboard Refueling Vapor

Recovery................................. 240Exhaust Emissions Controls.... 241

PGM-FI System..................... 241Ignition Timing Control

System................................. 241Three Way Catalytic

Converter............................ 241Replacement Parts..................... 241

Three Way Catalytic Converter... 242


Identification Numbers

Your car has several identifyingnumbers located in various places.

The Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) is the 17-digit number yourHonda dealer uses to register yourcar for warranty purposes. It is alsonecessary for licensing and insuringyour car. The easiest place to findthe VIN is on a plate fastened to thetop of the dashboard. You can see itby looking through the windshieldon the driver's side. It is also on theCertification label attached to thedriver's doorjamb, and is stamped onthe engine compartment bulkhead.The VIN is also provided in bar codeon the Certification label.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

CERTIFICATION LABEL


Identification Numbers

The Engine Number is stamped intothe engine block.

The Transmission Number is on alabel on top of the transmission.

TRANSMISSION NUMBER ENGINE NUMBER

IMA MOTOR NUMBER


Specifications

* 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in theengine.Reserve tank capacity: 0.11 US gal (0.4 , 0.09 Imp gal)

* 2 : Contact your Honda dealer when replacement is necessary.


Specifications


page 225

page 226

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

The tires on your car meet all U.S.Federal Safety Requirements. Alltires are also graded for treadwear,traction, and temperature perform-ance according to Department ofTransportation (DOT) standards.The following explains thesegradings.

Uniform Tire Quality GradingQuality grades can be found whereapplicable on the tire sidewallbetween the tread shoulder and themaximum section width. Forexample:

Treadwear 200Traction AATemperature A

TreadwearThe treadwear grade is a compara-tive rating based on the wear rate ofthe tire when tested under controlledconditions on a specified governmenttest course. For example, a tiregraded 150 would wear one and onehalf (1-1/2) times as well on thegovernment course as a tire graded100. The relative performance oftires depends upon the actual condi-tions of their use, however, and maydepart significantly from the normdue to variations in driving habits,service practices, and differences inroad characteristics and climate.

TractionThe traction grades, from highest tolowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Thosegrades represent the tire's ability tostop on wet pavement as measuredunder controlled conditions onspecified government test surfacesof asphalt and concrete. A tiremarked C may have poor tractionperformance.

Warning: The traction gradeassigned to this tire is based onstraight-ahead braking traction tests,and does not include acceleration,cornering, hydroplaning, or peaktraction characteristics.


DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

TemperatureThe temperature grades are A (thehighest), B, and C, representing thetire's resistance to the generation ofheat and its ability to dissipate heatwhen tested under controlledconditions on a specified indoorlaboratory test wheel. Sustained hightemperature can cause the materialof the tire to degenerate and reducetire life, and excessive temperaturecan lead to sudden tire failure. Thegrade C corresponds to a level ofperformance which all passenger cartires must meet under the FederalMotor Vehicle Safety Standard No.109. Grades B and A representhigher levels of performance on thelaboratory test wheel than theminimum required by law.

Warning: The temperature grade forthis tire is established for a tire thatis properly inflated and not over-loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-tion, or excessive loading eitherseparately or in combination, cancause heat build-up and possible tirefailure.


Oxygenated Fuels

Some conventional gasolines arebeing blended with alcohol or anether compound. These gasolinesare collectively referred to asoxygenated fuels. To meet clean airstandards, some areas of the UnitedStates and Canada use oxygenatedfuels to help reduce emissions.

If you use an oxygenated fuel, besure it is unleaded and meets theminimum octane rating requirement.

Before using an oxygenated fuel, tryto confirm the fuel's contents. Somestates/provinces require thisinformation to be posted on thepump.

The following are the U.S. EPA andCanadian CGSB approvedpercentages of oxygenates:

ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol)You may use gasoline containing upto 10 percent ethanol by volume.Gasoline containing ethanol may bemarketed under the name "Gasohol."

MTBE (Methyl Tertiary ButylEther)You may use gasoline containing upto 15 percent MTBE by volume.

METHANOL (methyl or woodalcohol)Your vehicle was not designed to usefuel that contains methanol.Methanol can corrode metal parts inthe fuel system, and also damageplastic and rubber components. Thisdamage would not be covered byyour warranties.

If you notice any undesirableoperating symptoms, try anotherservice station or switch to anotherbrand of gasoline.

Fuel system damage or performanceproblems resulting from the use ofan oxygenated fuel containing morethan the percentages of oxygenatesgiven above are not covered underwarranty.


Driving in Foreign Countries


If you are planning to take yourHonda outside the U.S. or Canada,contact the tourist bureaus in theareas you will be traveling in to findout about the availability of unleadedgasoline with the proper octanerating.

If unleaded gasoline is not available,be aware that using leaded gasolinein your Honda will affect perfor-mance and fuel mileage, and damageits emissions controls. It will nolonger comply with U.S. andCanadian emissions regulations, andwill be illegal to operate in NorthAmerica. To bring your car back intocompliance will require the replace-ment of several components, such asthe oxygen sensors and the threeway catalytic converter. These re-placements are not covered underwarranty.

Emissions Controls

The burning of gasoline in your car'sengine produces several byproducts.Some of these are carbon monoxide(CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) andhydrocarbons (HC). Gasolineevaporating from the tank alsoproduces hydrocarbons. Controllingthe production of NOx, CO, and HCis important to the environment.Under certain conditions of sunlightand climate, NOx and HC react toform photochemical "smog." Carbonmonoxide does not contribute tosmog creation, but it is a poisonousgas.

The Clean Air ActThe United States Clean Air Act*sets standards for automobileemissions. It also requires thatautomobile manufacturers explain toowners how their emissions controlswork and what to do to maintainthem. This section summarizes howthe emissions controls work.Scheduled maintenance is on page150 .

* In Canada, Honda vehicles complywith the Canadian Motor VehicleSafety Standards (CMVSS) forEmissions valid at the time they aremanufactured.

Crankcase Emissions ControlSystemYour car has a Positive CrankcaseVentilation System. This keepsgasses that build up in the engine'scrankcase from going into theatmosphere. The Positive CrankcaseVentilation valve routes them from

the crankcase back to the intakemanifold. They are then drawn intothe engine and burned.

Evaporative Emissions ControlSystemAs gasoline evaporates in the fueltank, an evaporative emissionscontrol canister filled with charcoaladsorbs the vapor. It is stored in thiscanister while the engine is off. Afterthe engine is started and warmed up,the vapor is drawn into the engineand burned during driving.

Onboard Refueling VaporRecoveryThe Onboard Refueling VaporRecovery (ORVR) system capturesthe fuel vapors during refueling. Thevapors are adsorbed in a canisterfilled with activated carbon. Whiledriving, the fuel vapors are drawninto the engine and burned off.


Emissions Controls

Exhaust Emissions ControlsThe exhaust emissions controlsinclude three systems: PGM-FI,Ignition Timing Control and ThreeWay Catalytic Converter. Thesethree systems work together tocontrol the engine's combustion andminimize the amount of HC, CO, andNOx that comes out the tailpipe. Theexhaust emissions control systemsare separate from the crankcase andevaporative emissions controlsystems.

PGM-FI SystemThe PGM-FI System uses sequentialmultiport fuel injection.It has three subsystems: Air Intake,Engine Control, and Fuel Control.The Engine Control Module (ECM)or the Powertrain Control Module(PCM) uses various sensors todetermine how much air is goinginto the engine. It then controls howmuch fuel to inject under all operat-ing conditions.

Ignition Timing Control SystemThis system constantly adjusts theignition timing, reducing the amountof HC, CO and NOx produced.

Three Way Catalytic ConverterThe three way catalytic converter isin the exhaust system. Throughchemical reactions, it converts HC,CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaustto carbon dioxide (CO2), dinitrogen(N2), and water vapor.

Replacement PartsThe emissions control systems aredesigned and certified to work to-gether in reducing emissions tolevels that comply with the Clean AirAct. To make sure the emissionsremain low, you should use only newGenuine Honda replacement parts ortheir equivalent for repairs. Usinglower quality parts may increase theemissions from your car.

The emissions control systems arecovered by warranties separate fromthe rest of your car. Read yourwarranty manual for more informa-tion.


Three Way Catalytic Converter

The three way catalytic convertercontains precious metals that serveas catalysts, promoting chemicalreactions to convert the exhaustgasses without affecting the metals.The catalytic converter is referred toas a three-way catalyst, since it actson HC, CO, and NOx. A replacementunit must be an original Honda partor its equivalent.

The three way catalytic convertermust operate at a high temperaturefor the chemical reactions to takeplace. 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.

THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER

A defective three way catalyticconverter contributes to air pollution,and can impair your engine's per-formance. Follow these guidelines toprotect your car's three way catalyticconverter.

Always use unleaded gasoline.Even a small amount of leadedgasoline can contaminate thecatalyst metals, making the threeway catalytic converter ineffective.

Keep the engine tuned-up.

Have your car diagnosed andrepaired if it is misfiring, back-firing, stalling, or otherwise notrunning properly.


Warranty and Customer Relations

Customer RelationsInformation................................. 244

U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 245Canada Zone Office Map.............. 246Warranty Coverages..................... 247Reporting Safety Defects

(U.S. Vehicles)........................... 248Authorized Manuals...................... 249


Customer Relations Information

Honda dealership personnel aretrained professionals. They shouldbe able to answer all your questions.If you encounter a problem that yourdealership does not solve to yoursatisfaction, please discuss it withthe dealership's management. TheService Manager or GeneralManager can help. Almost allproblems are solved in this way.

If you are dissatisfied with thedecision made by the dealership'smanagement, contact your HondaCustomer Relations Zone Office.Refer to the U.S. and Canadian ZoneOffice maps on the following pages.

When you call or write, please giveus this information:

Vehicle Identification Number(see page 232)Name and address of the dealerwho services your carDate of purchaseMileage on your carYour name, address, and tele-phone numberA detailed description of theproblemName of the dealer who sold thecar to you


U.S. Zone Office Map

The addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannotreach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information.

Western ZoneP.O. Box 2260

700 Van Ness AvenueTorrance, California90509-2260(310) 781-4565

Northwestern ZoneP.O. Box 20186

12439 N.E. Airport WayPortland, Oregon 97230(503) 256-0943(also includes Alaska andHawaii)

South Central Zone4529 Royal Lane

Irving, Texas 75063(972) 929-5481

Central Zone101 South Stanfield Road

Troy, Ohio 45373(937) 332-6250

Northeastern ZoneP.O. Box 337

Eastgate Industrial Park115 Gaither DriveMoorestown, New Jersey 08057(609) 235-5533Includes: NYC Metro area andFairfield County, CT area

Mid-Atlantic Zone902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200

Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878(301) 990-2020

Southeastern Zone1500 Morrison Parkway

Alpharetta, Georgia 30004(770) 442-2045

North Central Zone601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9

Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004(847) 870-5600

New England Zone555 Old County Road

Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096(860) 623-3310See Zone 5 for:NYC Metro area andFairfield County, CT area

West Central Zone1600 South Abilene Street, Suite D

Aurora, Colorado 80012(303) 696-3935

Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I.Bella International

P.O. Box 190816San Juan, PR 00919-0816(787) 250-4318


Canada Zone Office Map

CUSTOMER RELATIONSRELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTELE

Honda Canada Inc.715 Milner AvenueToronto, ONM1B 2K8

Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9

Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909Toronto (416) 287-4776

Honda Canada Inc.National Office


Warranty Coverages

U.S. OwnersYour new Honda is covered by thesewarranties:

New Car Limited Warranty — coversyour new vehicle, except for thebattery, emissions control systemsand accessories, against defects inmaterials and workmanship.

Emissions Control Systems DefectsWarranty and EmissionsPerformance Warranty — these twowarranties cover your vehicle's emis-sions control systems. Time, mileage,and coverage are conditional. Pleaseread the warranty manual for exactinformation.

Original Equipment Battery LimitedWarranty — this warranty gives upto 100 percent credit toward areplacement battery.

Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seatbelt that fails to function properly iscovered for the useful life of thevehicle.

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty— all exterior body panels arecovered for rust-through from theinside for the specified time periodwith no mileage limit.

Accessory Limited Warranty —Genuine Honda Accessories arecovered under this warranty. Timeand mileage limits depend on thetype of accessory and other factors.Please read your warranty manualfor details.

Replacement Parts LimitedWarranty — covers all GenuineHonda replacement parts againstdefects in materials and workman-ship.

Replacement Battery LimitedWarranty — provides proratedcoverage for a replacement batterypurchased from a Honda dealer.

Replacement Muffler LifetimeLimited Warranty — providescoverage for as long as the pur-chaser of the muffler owns the car.

Restrictions and exclusions apply toall these warranties. Please read the2000 Honda Warranty Informationbooklet that came with your car forprecise information on warrantycoverages. Your Honda's originaltires are covered by theirmanufacturer. Tire warranty infor-mation is in a separate booklet.

Canadian OwnersPlease refer to the 2000 WarrantyManual that came with your car.


Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

If you believe that your vehicle has adefect which could cause a crash orcould cause injury or death, youshould immediately inform theNational Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) in additionto notifying American Honda MotorCo., Inc.

If NHTSA receives similar com-plaints, it may open an investigation,and if it finds that a safety defectexists in a group of vehicles, it mayorder a recall and remedy campaign.However, NHTSA cannot becomeinvolved in individual problemsbetween you, your dealer, orAmerican Honda Motor Co., Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may eithercall the Auto Safety Hotline toll-freeat 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 inWashington D.C. area) or write to:NHTSA, U.S. Department ofTransportation, Washington,D.C. 20590. You can also obtainother information about motorvehicle safety from the Hotline.


Authorized Manuals

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals(U.S. only)The following publications covering the operation andservicing of your vehicle can be obtained from HelmIncorporated, either by filling out the attached form or,for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone numberon the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below,contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit,Michigan 48207, or call 1-800-782-4356.

Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners shouldcontact their authorized Honda dealer.

By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You canpay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail toHelm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.

61S3YOO

61S3YOOEL

61S3Y30

31S3Y600

Authorized Manuals

These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

P.O. BOX 07280 DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207 1-800-782-4356

Service Manual:This manual covers maintenance and recommendedprocedures for repair to engine and chassis components.It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simpleenough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under-stand.

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:This manual complements the Service Manual byproviding in-depth troubleshooting information for eachelectrical circuit in your vehicle.

Body Repair Manual:This manual describes the procedures involved in thereplacement of damaged body parts.

Index

Accessories and Modifications.... 126Accessories................................. 126Additional Safety Precaution.... 127Modifications............................. 127

ACCESSORY (Ignition KeyPosition)........................................ 68

Accessory Power Socket................ 79Adding

Brake Fluid................................. 171Clutch Fluid................................ 171Engine Coolant........................... 163Engine Oil................................... 159Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 170Windshield Washer Fluid......... 169

Additional Information AboutYour Seat Belts........................ 34

Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 34Seat Belt Maintenance................ 35Seat Belt System Components... 34

Additional Information AboutYour SRS...................................36

Additional Safely Precautions.... 39How the SRS Indicator

Works........................................ 38

How Your Airbags Work............ 36SRS Components......................... 36

Additives, Engine Oil..................... 160Adjustments

Mirrors.......................................... 76Seats.............................................. 74

Airbag (SRS)................................ 9, 46Air Conditioning System................. 88

Maintenance............................... 180Usage............................................. 88

Air Outlets (Vents).......................... 88Air Pressure, Tires........................ 182

Normal Driving.......................... 182Alcohol in Gasoline........................ 238Antifreeze....................................... 163Anti-theft Steering Column

Lock............................................... 67Appearance Care........................... 197Audio System................................... 96Auto Idle Stop................................. 134

BatteryCharging System

Indicator............................ 54, 219

Jump Starting............................. 214Maintenance............................... 175Specifications............................. 235

Before Driving............................... 117Belts, Seat........................................... 8Beverage Holder.............................. 78Body Repairs.................................. 203Brakes

Break-in, New Linings .............. 118Fluid............................................ 171Light, Burned-out...................... 193Parking.......................................... 77System Indicator.................. 46, 221Wear Indicators......................... 139

Braking System.............................. 140Break-in, New Car......................... 118Brightness Control, Instruments... 60Brights, Headlights......................... 59Bulb Replacement

Back-up Lights........................... 193Brake Light................................ 193Front Parking Lights................. 191Front Side Marker Lights......... 191Headlights.................................. 190

CONTINUED

Index

Bulb ReplacementInterior Light.............................. 195License Plate Lights.................. 194Specifications............................. 235Turn Signal Lights..................... 191

Bulbs, Halogen............................... 196

Cables, Jump Starting With.......... 214Capacities Chart............................. 234Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 40Carrying Cargo.............................. 128Cassette Player

Care............................................. 116Operation.................................... 102

CAUTION, Explanation of............... iiCD Changer.................................... 112CD Player........................................ 106Certification Label......................... 232Chains............................................. 187Charge/Assist Gauge..................... 55Change Oil

How to......................................... 161When to....................................... 150

Changing a Flat Tire..................... 185

Changing Engine Coolant............. 165Charging System Indicator.... 54, 219Checking

Battery Condition...................... 175Brake Fluid................................. 171Clutch Fluid................................ 171Drive Belts.................................. 181Engine Coolant........................... 123Engine Oil................................... 122Fuses........................................... 222Manual Transmission Fluid..... 170

Checklist, Before Driving............. 117Child Safety...................................... 19Cleaner Element, Air..................... 173Cleaning

Exterior....................................... 198Interior........................................ 201Seat Belts.................................... 201Vinyl............................................ 201Windows..................................... 202

Clock, Setting the.......................... 101Clutch Fluid.................................... 171CO in the Exhaust......................... 240Cold Weather, Starting in............. 133Compact Spare............................... 206Consumer Information*................ 244

Controls, Instruments and.............. 58Coolant

Adding......................................... 163Checking..................................... 123Proper Solution.......................... 163Replacing.................................... 165Temperature Gauge.................... 56

Corrosion Protection..................... 202Crankcase Emissions Control

System......................................... 240Current Fuel Mileage...................... 53Customer Relations Office........... 244

DANGER, Explanation of................. iiDashboard.................................... 2, 44Daytime Running Lights................. 60Dead Battery, What to Do............ 214Defects, Reporting Safety............. 248Defog and Defrost........................... 82Defogger, Rear Window................. 63Defrosting the Windows................. 82Dimensions..................................... 234Dimming the Headlights................ 59

Index

DipstickEngine Oil................................... 122

Directional Signals........................... 61Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 228Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 139Disposal of Used Oil...................... 162Display Change Button................... 49Doors

Locking and Unlocking............... 69DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 236Downshifting, 5-speed Manual

Transmission.............................. 136Drive Belts...................................... 181Driver and Passenger Safety............ 5Driving............................................ 131

Economy..................................... 124In Bad Weather.......................... 142In Foreign Countries................. 239

Economy, Fuel............................... 124Emergencies on the Road............. 205

Battery, Jump Starting.............. 214Brake System Indicator............ 221Changing a Flat Tire................. 207

Charging System Indicator...... 219Checking the Fuses................... 223Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 218Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 220Overheated Engine................... 217

Emergency Brake............................ 77Emergency Flashers....................... 63Emergency Towing....................... 228Emissions Controls........................ 240Engine

Belts............................................. 181Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 56Malfunction Indicator

Lamp................................. 47, 220Oil, What Kind to Use............... 159Overheating................................ 217Specifications............................. 234

Engine Speed Limiter.................... 137Ethanolin Gasoline....................... 238Evaporative Emissions Controls.. 240Exhaust Fumes................................ 40Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

Belts by......................................... 17Exterior, Cleaning the................... 198

Fabric, Cleaning............................. 201Fan, Interior...................................... 82Features, Comfort and

Convenience................................. 81Filling the Fuel Tank..................... 119Filter

Air Conditioning........................ 181Oil................................................ 161

5-speed Manual TransmissionChecking Fluid Level................ 170Shifting the................................. 136

Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 63Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 185Fluids

Brake........................................... 171Clutch.......................................... 171Manual Transmission............... 170Windshield Washer................... 169

FM Stereo RadioReception.................................... 110

Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 239Four-way Flashers........................... 63

CONTINUED

Index

Front End, Towing byEmergency Wrecker................. 228

Fuel.................................................. 118Fill Door and Cap....................... 119Gauge............................................ 56Octane Requirement................. 118Oxygenated................................ 238Reserve Indicator......................... 56Tank, Filling the......................... 119

Fuses, Checking the...................... 223

Gas Mileage, Improving................ 124Gasohol........................................... 238Gasoline.......................................... 118

Fuel Reserve Indicator................ 47Gauge............................................ 49Octane Requirement................. 118Tank, Filling the......................... 119

Gas Station Procedures................. 119Gauges

Engine CoolantTemperature............................ 56

Fuel................................................ 56

Gearshift Lever Positions5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 136Glass Cleaning.............................. 202Glove Box......................................... 78

Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 190Hatch

Opening the.................................. 69Open Monitor Light.................... 47

Hazard Warning Flashers............... 63Headlights

Daytime Running Lights............. 60High Beam Indicator................... 47High Beams, Turning on............ 59Low Beams, Turning on ............. 59Reminder Beeper......................... 59Replacing Halogen Bulbs......... 190Turning on.................................... 61

Heating.............................................. 81High Altitude, Starting at.............. 133High-Low Beam Switch .................. 59Hood Latch..................................... 174Hood, Opening the........................ 120

Horn..................................................... 3Hot Coolant, Warning about........ 163Hydraulic Clutch............................ 171Hydroplaning.................................. 142

Identification Number, Vehicle.... 232If Your Car Has to be Towed....... 228Ignition

Keys............................................... 65Switch............................................ 67Timing Control System............. 241

Important Safety Precautions .......... 6Indicator Lights, Instrument

Panel.............................................. 45Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 182

Normal Driving.......................... 183Inside Mirror.................................... 74Inspection, Tire.............................. 184Instrument Panel............................. 45Instrument Panel Brightness......... 60Interior Cleaning............................ 201Interior Light.................................... 80Introduction......................................... i

Index

Jacking up the Car......................... 207Jack, Tire........................................ 207Jump Starting................................. 214

Keys................................................... 65

Label, Certification........................ 232Lane Change, Signaling.................. 61Lap/Shoulder Belt........................... 34Leaking of Exhaust into Car.......... 40Lifetime Fuel Mileage..................... 53Lights

Bulb Replacement..................... 193Indicator........................................ 47Parking.......................................... 46Turn Signal................................... 61

Load Limit...................................... 129LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 67Locks

Fuel Fill Door............................. 119

Hatch............................................. 69Low Coolant Level......................... 123Low Fuel Indicator.......................... 56Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 137Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 234Luggage.......................................... 128

Maintenance................................... 145Owner Maintenance Checks.... 157Record......................................... 155Required Indicator....................... 57Safety........................................... 146Schedule..................................... 148

Malfunction Indicator Lamp.. 47, 220Manual Transmission.................... 136Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 170Meters, Gauges................................ 49Methanol in Gasoline.................... 238Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 76

New Vehicle Break-in ................... 118NOTICE, Explanation of................... ii

Numbers, Identification................ 232

Octane Requirement, Gasoline.... 118Odometer.......................................... 49Odometer, Trip................................ 51Oil

Change, How to......................... 161Change, When to....................... 150Checking Engine....................... 122Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart....................................... 160ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 68Onboard Refueling Vapor

Recovery..................................... 240Opening the Hatch.......................... 69Opening the Hood......................... 120Operation in Foreign Countries... 239Outside Mirrors............................... 76Overheating, Engine..................... 217Owner Maintenance Checks........ 157Oxygenated Fuels.......................... 238

CONTINUED

Index

Paint Touch-up............................... 200Panel Brightness Control............... 60Parking............................................ 138Parking Brake.................................. 77Parking Brake and Brake

System Indicator.................. 46, 221Parking Over Things that Burn... 242PGM-FI System.............................. 241Polishing and Waxing................... 200Pre-Drive Safety Checklist............. 11Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 17Protecting Adults............................. 12

Additional Safety Precautions.... 18Advice for Pregnant Women...... 17

Protecting Children......................... 19Protecting Larger Children........ 29Protecting Small Children.......... 26Using Child Seats with

Tethers...................................... 33

Radiator Overheating.................... 217Radio/Cassette Sound System....... 96

Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 193Rear View Mirror............................. 77Rear Window Defogger.................. 63Rear Window Washer..................... 63Rear Window Wiper........................ 63Reclining the Seat Backs................ 74Replacement Information

Air Cleaner Element.................. 173Engine Coolant........................... 165Engine Oil and Filter................. 161Fuses........................................... 222Light Bulbs................................. 193Schedule..................................... 148Drive Belt.................................... 181Tires............................................ 185Wiper Blades.............................. 177

Replacing Seat Belts After aCrash............................................. 35

Reserve Tank, EngineCoolant............................... 123, 165

Restraint, Child................................ 19Rotation, Tire................................. 185

Safety Belts.................................. 8, 34

Safety Defects, Reporting*.......... 248Safety Features.................................. 7

Airbags............................................ 9Door Locks................................... 10Head Restraints........................... 10Seat Belts........................................ 8Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10

Safety Labels, Location of.............. 41Safety Messages................................ iiSeat Belts, Additional

Information............................... 41Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 34Seat Belt Maintenance................ 35Seat Belt System Components... 36

Seat Belts...................................... 8, 34Cleaning...................................... 201Maintenance................................. 35Reminder Light and

Beeper............................... 34, 46System Components.................... 34Tether Anchorage Points........... 33Use During Pregnancy................ 17Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt.... 15

Seats, Adjusting the......................... 74Serial Number................................ 232Service Intervals............................ 148

Index

Service Manual*............................ 249Service Station Procedures.......... 119Setting the Clock........................... 101Shifting

The 5-speed ManualTransmission.......................... 136

Signaling Turns................................ 61Snow Tires...................................... 187Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 199Sound System................................... 96Spare Tire

Inflating....................................... 206Specifications............................. 235

Specifications Charts..................... 234Speedometer.................................... 49SRS, Additional Information........... 36

Additional Safety Precautions.... 39How the SRS Indicator

Works........................................ 38How Your Airbags Work............36SRS Components......................... 36SRS Service................................... 39

SRS Indicator.............................. 34, 46START (Ignition Key Position)..... 68

Starting the Engine........................ 133In Cold Weather at High

Altitude................................... 133With a Dead Battery................. 214

Steam Coming from Engine......... 217Steering Wheel

Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 67Stereo Sound System...................... 96Storing Your Car............................ 196Supplemental Restraint

System................................... 9, 36Servicing....................................... 39SRS Indicator.......................... 34, 46System Components.................... 36

Synthetic Oil................................... 160

Tachometer...................................... 56Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 193Taking Care of the

Unexpected................................ 205Tape Player..................................... 102Technical Descriptions

DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 236Driving in Foreign Countries... 239

Emissions Control Systems...... 240Oxygenated Fuels...................... 238Three Way Catalytic

Converter................................ 242Temperature Gauge........................ 56Tether Anchorage Points............... 33Three Way Catalytic Converter... 242Time, Setting the........................... 101Tire Chains..................................... 187Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 185Tires................................................ 182

Air Pressure............................... 183Checking Wear.......................... 184Compact Spare........................... 206DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 236Inflation....................................... 182Inspection................................... 184Replacing.................................... 185Rotating....................................... 185Snow............................................ 187Specifications............................. 235Tire Chains................................. 187

Tools, Tire 207

CONTINUED

Index

TowingA Trailer...................................... 143Emergency Wrecker................. 228

TransmissionChecking Fluid Level,

Manual.................................... 170Fluid Selection............................ 170Identification Number............... 233Shifting the Manual................... 136

Treadwear...................................... 236Trip Meters...................................... 51Trip Mileage..................................... 52Turn Signals..................................... 61

Underside, Cleaning...................... 199Unexpected, Taking Care

of the........................................... 205Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 236Unleaded Gasoline......................... 118Upholstery Cleaning...................... 201Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 162

Vehicle Capacity Load.................. 129Vehicle Dimensions....................... 234Vehicle Identification Number..... 232Vehicle Storage.............................. 196VIN.................................................. 232Vinyl Cleaning................................ 201Viscosity, Oil................................... 160

Warning BeepersHeadlights on............................... 59Key in Ignition.............................. 68Seat Belts................................ 34, 46

WARNING, Explanation of.............. iiWarning Labels, Location of.......... 41Warranty Coverages*................... 247Washer, Windshield

Operation...................................... 62Washing.......................................... 199Waxing and Polishing................... 200Wheels

Alignment and Balance............. 184Compact Spare........................... 206

Wrench....................................... 209Windows

Cleaning...................................... 202Rear, Defogger............................ 63

WindshieldCleaning........................................ 61Defroster...................................... 94

Wipers, WindshieldChanging Blades........................ 177Operation...................................... 63

Worn Tires..................................... 184Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 205

* U.S. and Canada only

Service Information Summary

Gasoline:Unleaded gasoline, pump octanenumber of 87 or higher.

Fuel Tank Capacity:10.6 US gal (40 l, 8.8 Imp gal)

Recommended Engine Oil:API Service SJ "EnergyConserving" oil, SAE 0W-20viscosity (see page 159 ).

Oil change capacity (includingfilter):

2.6 US qt (2.5 l, 2.2 Imp qt)

5-speed Manual TransmissionFluid:Honda Manual TransmissionFluid preferred, or an API serviceSG, SH or SJ, SAE 10W-30 or10W-40 motor oil as a temporaryreplacement (see page 170 ).

Capacity (including differential):1.6 US qt (1.5 l,1.3 Imp qt)

Brake Fluid:Genuine Honda DOT3 Brake Fluidpreferred, or a DOT 3 or DOT 4brake fluid as a temporaryreplacement (see page 171).

Tire Pressure (measured cold):Front:

38 psi (260 kPa)Rear:

35 psi (240 kPa)

Spare Tire:60 psi (420 kPa)

Documents

2000 Insight Online Reference Owner's Manual Contents240260280.com/Insight/owners manual.pdf · 2000 Insight Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout