2001 NSX Online Reference Owner's Manual Contentstechinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/OM/AH/BNS0101OM/enu/NS0101OM.pdfExcessive speed is a major factor in crash injuries and deaths. Generally,

2001 NSX Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.

Contents

Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety ................................................................................................................. ii

Your Vehicle at a Glance .....................................................................................................................2 Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................5 Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls ................................................................................................................. 45 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. 91 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 129 What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 145 The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 167 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 227 Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 235 This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 271ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 285 A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 291 How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...................................................................................................................................................... I

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

Owner's Identification Form

Owner's Identification

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 on your selection of the 2001 Acura NSX. We are certainyou will be pleased with your purchase of one of the most sophisticated andtechnologically-advanced sports cars in the world.

One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Acura is to readthis 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 Acura. 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 Acura dealer's staff isspecially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Acura. YourAcura dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answerany questions and concerns.

California Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING: This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State ofCalifornia to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

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

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

NOTICEa

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.

Magesh

Your Car at a Glance

TURN SIGNAL LEVER(P.58)

WINDSHIELD WIPERCONTROLS(P.59)

HAZARD WARNING SWITCH(P.60)

DIGITAL CLOCK(P.84)

AUTOMATICCLIMATECONTROL(P.92)

AUDIO SYSTEM(P.102)

SEAT ADJUSTMENT SWITCH(P.73)

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE(P.156)(Automatic transmission only)

FUEL FILLDOOR RELEASE(P.131)

TRUNKRELEASEBUTTON(P.70)

MIRRORCONTROLS(P.83)

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES(P.74)

DOOR LOCKSWITCH(P.69)

HOOD RELEASEHANDLE(P.135)

HEADLIGHTSWITCH(P.56)

Your Car at a Glance

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS(P.57)

TCS ON/OFF SWITCH(P.163)

HAZARD WARNING LIGHT(P.60)

HEADLIGHT MOTOR(P.57)

HEADLIGHTS(P.56)

REAR WINDOWDEFOGGER(P.57)

TURN SIGNALS(P.58)

TELESCOPEADJUSTMENT(P.61)

HORNBUTTONS

TILT ADJUSTMENT(P.61)

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS(P.59)

CRUISE CONTROLMASTER SWITCH(P.60)

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. Adjust the Steering Wheel..... 166. 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....... 20

Additional Safety Precaution...... 22General Guidelines for Using

Child Seats................................22Protecting Small Children.......... 26Protecting Larger Children........ 29Using Child Seats with

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

Seat Belts..................................35Seat Belt System Components... 35Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 35How the Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners Work..................... 36Seat Belt Maintenance................ 36

Additional Information About YourSRS............................................37

SRS Components......................... 37How Your Airbags Work............ 37How the SRS Indicator Light

Works........................................ 40SRS Service................................... 41Additional Safety Precautions.... 41

Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 42Safety Labels.................................... 43


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 cany 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 page

7.)

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 170.)


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.

Magesh


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 141 ).

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.


NSX NSX-T

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 73 for how to adjust theseats.

3.Adjust the Seat-BacksAdjust 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.

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.

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.

Magesh

Protecting Adults

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 73 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.

Magesh

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 necessaiy, 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.

Magesh

Protecting Adults

If a seal 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 yourAcura dealer check the belt as soonas possible.See page 35 for additionalinformation about your seat beltsystem and how to take care of yourbelts.

5.Adjust the Steering Wheel

Adjust the steering wheel, if needed,so that the wheel points toward yourchest, not toward your face.

Pointing the steering wheel towardyour chest provides optimalprotection from the airbag.

See page 61 for how to adjust thesteering wheel.

6.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.

Magesh

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 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.

Magesh

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 on the dashboard and on thedriver's and passenger's visors.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 PROF1TER 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.

Lock both doors and the trunkwhen your car is not in use.Children who play in cars canaccidentally get trapped inside thetrunk. Teach your children not toplay in or around cars. Know howto operate the emergency trunkopener (US models only) anddecide if your children should beshown how to use this feature (seepage 71).

Keep car keys out of the reach ofchildren. Even very youngchildren learn how to unlockvehicle doors, turn on the ignition,and open the trunk, which canlead to accidental injury or death.

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 cany 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, Acura is confident that oneor more child seat models can fit andbe 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 summarizes Acura'srecommendations on where to placea 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. Al l 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 be 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 cany a small child asa passenger.

If you decide to cany 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.

Magesh

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 73 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 cany 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 the child is 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.


CONTINUED

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.

Magesh

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

Fixed Roof ModelYour car has a tether anchoragepoint on the panel behind thepassenger's seat-back for securing atether-style child seat to the car.Since a tether can provide additionalsecurity, we recommend using atether whenever one is required oravailable.

Pass the strap between the top of theseat and the bottom of the headrestraint.

Attach the tether strap hook to thetether anchorage point as shown inthe illustration, then tighten thestrap according to the child seatmaker's instructions.

NSX-T

To attach a tether to your car:

1. Adjust the passenger's seat fullyforward to make room behind theseat-back.

2. Using the measurements shown,poke a marker hole in the liningbehind the seat.

CONTINUED


4in (10cm) 1 in (2.5 cm)

9.7 in(24.6cm)

Protecting Children

3. Use a razor blade or sharp knife tocut a 1-inch (2.5 cm) diametercircle around the marker hole.Remove the upholstery you cut.

4. Install the anchor plate andmounting hardware.

(Canadian Models)The hardware is stored in the glovebox.

(U.S. models only)The hardware is available forpurchase from your Acura dealer(part numbers: 82410-S84-C10 forthe hardware, 82419-S84-C00 for thecover).


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.

CONTINUED



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.

How the Automatic Seat BeltTensioners Work

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

If your airbags inflate, the tensionersimmediately tighten the seat belts tohelp hold the occupants in place. Thebelts will remain tight until youunbuckle them in the normal way.

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. ModelsAcura provides a lifetime warrantyon seat belts. Acura will repair orreplace any seat belt component thatfails to function properly duringnormal use. Please see your AcuraWarranty 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 232 .


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.

Magesh

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 monitorsinformation about the sensors, thecontrol unit, and the airbagactivators when the ignition switchis ON (II).

An indicator light on theinstrument panel that alerts you toa possible problem with thesystem (see page 40).

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 Nerd 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 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 briefly thengo out. This tells you that the systemis working properly.

If the light comes on at any othertime, or does not come on at all, youshould have the system checked byyour dealer. For example:

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 Acura 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.

Magesh


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 bedone by an Acura dealer or aknowledgeable body shop.

The SRS indicator light alerts youto a problem. Take your car to anauthorized Acura dealer as soon aspossible. 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 139 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 trunk lid open, air flow canpull exhaust gas into your car'sinterior and create a hazardouscondition. If you must drive with thetrunk lid open, open all the windowsand set the heating and coolingsystem/climate control system asshown 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.

Magesh

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 Acura dealerfor a replacement.

CONTINUED


DASHBOARDU.S. models only

JUMP START

HEADLIGHT MOTORRADIATOR

FOLDING SPARE TIRE

BATTERYSUN VISORU.S. models Canadian models

Safety Labels

EXPANSION TANK CAP


Instruments and Controls

This section gives information aboutthe controls and displays thatcontribute to the daily operation ofyour Acura. All the essential controlsare within easy reach.

Component Locations..................... 46Control Locations............................ 47Indicator Lights................................ 48Gauges.............................................. 53

Speedometer................................ 53Tachometer.................................. 53Oil Pressure Gauge ..................... 53Temperature Gauge.................... 53Voltmeter...................................... 54Fuel Gauge................................... 54Odometer...................................... 54Trip Meter.................................... 54

Steering Column Controls.............. 55Headlights.................................... 56Daytime Running Lights............. 56Rear Window Defogger.............. 57Turn Signals................................. 58Windshield Wipers...................... 59Windshield Washers................... 60Hazard Warning........................... 60Cruise Control Master Switch ... 60Steering Wheel Adjustment....... 61

Steering Wheel Controls ................ 62Cruise Control.............................. 62

Keys and Locks................................ 65Keys............................................... 65

Immobilizer System..................... 66Ignition Switch............................. 67Power Door Locks....................... 69Trunk............................................70Emergency Trunk Opener......... 71Glove Box..................................... 72

Seat Adjustments............................. 73Power Windows............................... 74Removable Roof Panel.................... 76

Removing and Storing................. 77Installing....................................... 80Roof Unlatched Indicator........... 81Maintenance................................. 82To reduce the possibility of

leaks..........................................82Mirrors.............................................. 83

Adjusting the Power Mirrors..... 83Digital Clock..................................... 84Parking Brake.................................. 85Console Compartment.................... 86Coin Holder...................................... 86Beverage Holder.............................. 87Cigarette Lighter............................. 87Ashtray.............................................. 88Interior Lights.................................. 88Courtesy Lights............................... 89


Component Locations

*NSX illustration is shown.


HOOD REAR WINDOW ENGINE COVER TRUNK LID

TRUNK

TOOLS, JACK, AIR PUMP,PRESSURE GAUGE

FUEL FILL DOOR ENGINE COMPARTMENTFOLDING SPARE TIRE

FRONTCOMPARTMENT

Control Locations


HEADLIGHTSWITCH(P.56)

TURN SIGNAL LEVER(P.58)

WINDSHIELD WIPERCONTROLS(P.59)

HAZARD WARNING SWITCH(P.60)

DIGITAL CLOCK(P.84)

AUTOMATICCLIMATECONTROL(P.92)

AUDIO SYSTEM(P.102)

SEAT ADJUSTMENT SWITCH(P.73)

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE(P.156)(Automatic transmission only)

FUEL FILL DOORRELEASE(P.131)

TRUNK RELEASEBUTTON(P.70)

MIRROR CONTROLS(P.83)

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES(P.74)

DOOR LOCKSWITCH(P.69)

HOOD RELEASEHANDLE(P.135)

Indicator Lights

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


TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM(TCS) INDICATOR (P.51)

ANTI-LOCK BR AKE SYSTEM(ABS) INDICATOR* (P.49)

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR(P.49)MALFUNCTIONINDICATOR LAMP(P.258)

LOW OIL PRESSUREINDICATOR (P.49)

SHIFT LEVER POSITION INDICATOR(Automatic transmission only)(P.149)PARKING BRAKE ANDBRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR'(P.50) DOOR AND LAMP MONITOR (P.51)

TURN SIGNAL AND HAZARDWARNING INDICATORS (P.52)

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR(P.52)

IMMOBILIZER SYSTEMINDICATOR (P.52)

LOW FUELINDICATOR(P.52)

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT(P.49)

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING INDICATOR(P.51)

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINTSYSTEM INDICATOR (P.50)

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR (P.52)

Indicator Lights

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

Seat Belt Reminder Light

This indicator flashes for severalseconds when you turn the ignitionON (II). It flashes as a reminder toyou and your passenger to fasten theseat belts. A beeper also sounds ifyou have not fastened your seat belt.

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.

Low Oil PressureIndicator

The engine can be severely damagedif this light flashes or stays on whenthe engine is running. For completeinformation, see page 256.

Charging SystemIndicator

If this light comes on when theengine is running, the battery is notbeing charged. For completeinformation, see page 257 .


Indicator Lights

U.S. Canada

Parking Brake andBrake System IndicatorThis light has two functions:

1. This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch ON (II). Itis a reminder to check the parkingbrake. Driving with the parkingbrake not fully released candamage the brakes and tires.

2. If the indicator remains lit afteryou have fully released theparking brake while the engine isrunning, or if it comes on whiledriving, it can indicate a problemin the brake system. For completeinformation, see page 260.

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)IndicatorThis light normally comes on whenyou turn the ignition switch ON (II)and goes off after the engine starts.If it comes on at any other time,there is a problem in the ABS. If thishappens, take the car to your dealerto have it checked. With the light on,your car still has normal brakingability but no anti-lock. For completeinformation, see page 159.

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 39.

Malfunction IndicatorLamp

See page 258.


BRAKE

U.S. Canada

A B S

S R S

Indicator Lights

Door and Lamp Monitor(Except NSX-T) (NSX-T)

The appropriate light comes on inthis display if the rear window, trunk,roof panel (on the NSX-T) or eitherdoor is not closed tightly.

light comes on if eitherheadlight door fails to completelyopen or close. If a brake light doesnot work, the BRAKE LAMPindicator comes on when you pushthe brake pedal with the ignitionswitch ON (II).

A burned out brake light is a hazardwhen drivers behind you cannot tellyou are braking. Have your brakelights repaired right away.

All the lights in the monitor displaycome on for a few seconds when youturn the ignition switch ON (II).

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.

Traction Control System(TCS) Indicator

This indicator has three functions:

1. It comes on as a reminder that youhave turned off the TractionControl System.

2. It flashes when the TCS isregulating the engine power.

3. If it comes on and stays on whenthe Traction Control System is on,it indicates that there is a problemin the TCS.

This light also comes on when youturn the ignition ON (II) and goes offafter the engine starts. See page163 for more information on the

TCS.


EPS

TCS

Indicator Lights

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 220). 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 56 forinformation on the headlightcontrols.

"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).

This indicator also blinks severaltimes when you remove the keyfrom the ignition switch.

Cruise Control Indicator

Low Fuel Indicator

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


CRUISECONTROL

This lights when you set the cruisecontrol. See page 60 for informationon operating the cruise control.

D R L

Gauges

TEMPERATURE GAUGE SPEEDOMETER

SpeedometerU.S. ModelsThis shows your speed in miles perhour (mph). The smaller innernumbers are the speed in kilometersper hour (km/h).

Canadian ModelsThis shows your speed in kilometersper hour (km/h). The smaller innernumbers are the speed in miles perhour (mph).

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

Oil Pressure GaugeThis shows the engine's oil pressurein hundred kilopascal (X100 kPa).This pressure varies with enginespeed and temperature. If the oilpressure falls low enough to causeengine damage, the Low OilPressure Indicator comes on (seepage 256).

Temperature GaugeThis shows the temperature of theengine's coolant. During normaloperation, the pointer should risefrom the bottom white mark to aboutthe middle of the gauge. In severedriving conditions, such as very hotweather or a long period of uphilldriving, the pointer may rise to nearthe upper white mark. If it reachesthe red (Hot) mark, pull safely to theside of the road. Turn to page 254 forinstructions and precautions onchecking the engine's coolingsystem.


OIL PRESSURE GAUGE

TACHOMETER

Gauges

FUEL GAUGE

ODOMETER TRIP METER TRIP METERRESET BUTTON

VoltmeterThis meter shows you the batteryvoltage when the ignition is ON (II).A prolonged reading of lower than 11volts can indicate a problem with thebattery or charging system. Haveyour car inspected by your Acuradealer.

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.

The gauge stays at the same fuellevel reading after you turn off theignition. When you add fuel, thegauge slowly changes to the new

reading after you turn the ignitionswitch back ON (II).

OdometerThe odometer shows the total dis-tance your car has been driven. Itmeasures miles in U.S. models andkilometers in Canadian models.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.

Trip MeterThis meter shows the number ofmiles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada)driven since you last reset it. Toreset it, push the trip meter resetbutton.


VOLTMETER

Steering Column Controls

The two pods on the steering columncontain controls for driving featuresyou use most often. The left pod hascontrols for the turn signals,headlights, high beams, and the rearwindow defogger. The right pod hascontrols for the windshield washersand wipers, cruise control andhazard warning lights. Underneaththe instrument panel are theheadlight motor switch, instrumentpanel brightness control, and theTCS On/Off switch.

The two levers on the underside ofthe steering column allow you to tiltand telescope the steering wheel.


INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS(P.57)

HEADLIGHT MOTOR(P.57)

HEADLIGHTS(P.56)

TCS ON/OFF SWITCH(P.163)

HAZARDWARNING LIGHT(P.60)

CRUISE CONTROLMASTER SWITCH(P.60)

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS(P.59)

TILT ADJUSTMENT(P.61)

TELESCOPEADJUSTMENT(P.61)

TURN SIGNALS(P.58)

REAR WINDOWDEFOGGER(P.57)

HORNBUTTONS


Headlights

The rotating switch on the left podcontrols the lights. Turning thisswitch to turns on the parkinglights, taillights, instrument panellights, side-marker lights, and rearlicense plate lights. Turning theswitch to raises the headlightsand turns them on.

If you leave the lights on with theignition switch in ACCESSORY (I)or LOCK (0), you will hear areminder chime when you open thedriver's door.

To change between low beams andhigh beams, pull the turn signal leveras far as it will move towards you,then let go. The blue high beamindicator will light (see page 52 ).

To flash the high beams when theheadlight doors are closed, pull backand hold the turn signal lever. Thissimultaneously raises the headlightdoors and turns on the high beams.Release the lever and the highbeams go off. Within a few seconds,the headlight doors will closeautomatically.

The high beams will stay on for aslong as you hold the lever back, nomatter what position the headlightswitch is in.

Daytime Running Lights(Canadian Models)Your car has Daytime RunningLights (DRL) in addition to theheadlights. With the ignition ON (II)and the light switch OFF or atDRL turns on when you release theparking brake. DRL turns off whenyou turn the ignition off or theheadlights on.



Headlight Motor

To raise and lower the headlightdoors without turning on theheadlights, push the dashboardbutton behind the left pod.

INSTRUMENT PANELBRIGHTNESS KNOB

The knob on the dashboard behindthe left pod controls the brightnessof the instrument panel lights. Pushthe knob to get it to pop out. Turnthe knob to adjust the brightness,then push it back in so you cannotaccidentally bump it.

Rear Window Defogger

The rear window defogger will clearfog, frost, and thin ice from thewindow. Push the defogger button toturn it on and off. The light on thefront of the pod lights to show thedefogger is on. If you do not turn itoff, the defogger will shut itself offafter about 25 minutes. It also shutsoff when you turn off the ignition.You have to turn it on again whenyou restart the car.


HEADLIGHT MOTOR BUTTON

Instrument Panel and Brightness

CONTIUNED


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

The defogger and antenna wires onthe inside of the rear window can beaccidentally damaged. Whencleaning the glass, always wipe sideto side.

Turn Signals

TURN SIGNALLEVER

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

The lever on the right pod controlsthe windshield wipers and washers.The rotary switch at the end of thelever has three positions:

INT: intermittentLO: low speedHI : high speed

In intermittent, the wipers operateevery few seconds. You can varyhow often the wipers sweep thewindshield by turning the INT TIMEring next to the rotary switch. In lowspeed and high speed, the wipers runcontinuously.

To operate the wipers in mist mode,push the control lever down. Thewipers run at high speed until yourelease the lever. This gives you aquick way to clear the windshield.



Windshield Washers

To clean the windshield, pull back onthe wiper control lever. The washersspray until you release the lever.The wipers run at low speed whileyou're pulling the lever, thencomplete one more sweep of thewindshield after you release it.

Hazard Warning

Push the large red button on theright pod to turn on the hazard warn-ing lights (four-way flashers). Thiscauses all four outside turn signalsand both indicators in the instrumentpanel to flash. Use the hazardwarning lights if you need to park ina dangerous area near heavy traffic,or if your car is disabled.

Cruise Control Master Switch

The cruise control master switch ison the right pod. For information onusing the cruise control, see page 62



Steering Wheel AdjustmentSee page 16 for important safetyinformation about how to properlyposition the steering wheel.

Make any steering wheel adjustmentbefore you start driving.

After you have adjusted the steeringwheel, make sure you have securelylocked it in place by moving it in andout and up and down.

TELESCOPEADJUSTMENT

To adjust the steering wheel:1. The lever to telescope the steering

wheel is under the steeringcolumn to the left. Push this leverall the way down.

2. Move the steering wheel in or outto the distance you want. Push thelever up firmly to lock the steeringwheel in that position.

3. The lever to tilt the steering wheelis under the steering column in the

TILTADJUSTMENT

middle. Pull this lever toward youand hold it.

4. Move the steering wheel up ordown to the desired position.Position the wheel so you can seethe instrument panel gauges andwarning lights. Release the lever.

5. Make sure you have securelylocked the steering wheel in placeby trying to move it up, down, inand out.


Adjusting the steering wheelposition while driving maycause you to lose control of thecar and be seriously injured in acrash.

Adjust the steering wheel onlywhen the car is stopped.

Magesh

Steering Wheel Controls

Cruise ControlCruise control allows you to maintaina set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h)without keeping your foot on theaccelerator pedal. It should be usedfor cruising on straight, openhighways. It is not recommended forconditions such as city driving,winding roads, slippery roads, heavyrain, or bad weather. You shouldhave full control of the car underthose conditions.

Using the Cruise Control

1. Push in the Cruise Control MasterSwitch on the right pod. Theindicator by the switch will light.

2. Accelerate to the desired cruisingspeed above 25 mph (40 km/h).


Improper use of the cruisecontrol can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control onlywhen traveling on openhighways in good weather.

Magesh


RESUME/accel

SET/decel

3. Press and release the SET/decelbutton on the steering wheel. TheCRUISE CONTROL light on theinstrument panel comes on toshow the system is now activated.

The cruise control may not holdthe set speed when you are goingup and down hills. If your speedincreases going down a hill, usethe brakes to slow down to thedesired speed. This will cancel the

cruise control. To resume the setspeed, press the RESUME/accelbutton. The CRUISE CONTROLlight on the instrument panelcomes on.When climbing a steep hill, theautomatic transmission maydownshift to hold the set speed.

Changing the Set SpeedYou can increase the set cruisingspeed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the RESUME/accel button. The car will acceler-ate. When you reach the desiredcruising speed, release the button.

Push on the accelerator pedal. Ac-celerate to the desired cruisingspeed and press the SET/decelbutton.

To increase your speed in verysmall amounts, tap the RESUME/accel button repeatedly. Each time

you do this, your car will speed upabout 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

You can decrease the set cruisingspeed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the SET/decelbutton. The car will decelerate.Release the button when youreach the desired speed.

To slow down in very smallamounts, tap the SET/decelbutton repeatedly. Each time youdo this, your car will slow downabout 1 mph (1.6km/h).

Tap the brake or clutch pedallightly with your foot. TheCRUISE CONTROL light on theinstrument panel will go out.When the car slows to the desiredspeed, press the SET/decel button.The car will then maintain thedesired speed.


CONTINUED


Even with the cruise control turnedon, you can still use the acceleratorpedal to speed up for passing. Aftercompleting the pass, take your footoff the accelerator pedal. The carwill return to the set cruising speed.

Resting your foot on the brake orclutch pedal will cause the cruisecontrol to cancel.

Cancelling the Cruise ControlYou can cancel the cruise control inany of these ways:

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

Press the SET/decel and RE-SUME/accel buttons at the sametime.

Press the Cruise Control MasterSwitch.

When you tap the brake or clutchpedal, or press the SET and RE-SUME buttons at the same time, theCRUISE CONTROL light on theinstrument panel will go out and thecar will begin to slow down. You canuse the accelerator pedal in thenormal way.

If you use the brake or clutch pedalto cancel cruise control, the systemremembers the previously-setcruising speed. To return to thatspeed, accelerate to above 25 mph

(40 km/h), then press theRESUME/accel button. TheCRUISE CONTROL light comes on,and the car will accelerate to thesame cruising speed as before.

Pressing the Cruise Control MasterSwitch turns the system completelyoff and erases the previous cruisingspeed from memory. To use thesystem again, refer to Using theCruise Control.


Keys and Locks

Keys

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

IgnitionDoorsTrunkGlove box

The valet key only works the ignitionand the door locks. You can keep thetrunk and glove box locked whenyou leave your car and valet key at aparking facility. (See Trunk, page 70 .)

You should have received a keynumber plate with your set of keys.You will need this number if youever have to get a lost key replaced.Keep the plate stored in a safe place.When replacing keys, use only

Acura-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.

CONTINUED


KEYNUMBERPLATE

MASTERKEYS(Black)

VALETKEY(Gray)

Keys and Locks

Learning Key

You should also receive a small casecontaining a learning key. It is usedby the Acura dealer to code replace-ment keys to your car's ImmobilizerSystem. It must not be used in yourcar's ignition switch. Store the learn-ing key with the key number plate ina safe place.

If you attempt to use the learningkey to start your car's engine, it maycause a malfunction in the systemthat makes your master and valetkeys unusable. If this happens, youshould contact your Acura dealer.

If you need a new key made, take thekey number plate, the learning key,and all other keys that came withyour car to your Acura dealer.

Immobilizer SystemThe Immobilizer System protectsyour car from theft. A properly-coded ignition key must be used inthe ignition switch for the engine tostart. If an improperly-coded key (orother device) is used, the engine'sfuel 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.


Keys and Locks

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 Acura dealer.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 youcannot start the engine, contact yourAcura 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 must accept anyinterference that may cause undesiredoperation of the device.

Ignition Switch

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

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

CONTINUED


Keys and Locks

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. If your car hasan automatic transmission, the shiftlever must also be in Park. The anti-theft lock will lock the steeringcolumn when you remove the key.

If the front wheels are turned, theanti-theft lock may sometimes makeit difficult to turn the key fromLOCK to ACCESSORY. Firmly turnthe steering wheel to the left or tothe right as you turn the key.

ACCESSORY (I) — In this position,you can operate the audio systemand the cigarette lighter.

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 (II I) — 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.


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

Remove the key from theignition switch only whenparked.

Magesh

Keys and Locks

Each door has a door lock switch.Either switch locks and unlocks bothdoors. Push LOCK to lock bothdoors, and the top portion of theswitch to unlock them.

LOCK TAB

Each door also has a lock tab on thetop. When you push down the locktab on the driver's door, both doorslock. Pulling up the lock tab on thedriver's door only unlocks that door.The lock tab on the passenger's dooronly locks and unlocks that door. Toget out of the car, pull each lock tabup or use the door lock switch beforeyou open either door.

Both doors will lock when you usethe key to lock either door from theoutside. Unlocking the driver's doorwith the key unlocks only that door.Unlocking the passenger's door withthe key unlocks both doors.

To lock the door without the key,push the lock tab down and close thedoor.

CONTINUED


DOOR LOCKSWITCH

Power Door Locks

Keys and Locks

Lockout PreventionIf you forget and leave the key in theignition switch, Lockout Preventionwill not allow you to lock the driver'sdoor. With the driver's door openand the key in the ignition, both doorlock switches are disabled.

If you try to lock an open driver'sdoor by pushing the lock tab down,the tabs on both doors pop up.Pushing the lock tab down on thepassenger's door only locks that door.

Trunk

You can open the trunk in two ways:

Press the trunk release button onthe driver's door.

Use the master key to open thetrunk lock. The valet key does notwork in this lock.

To close the trunk, press down onthe trunk lid. Do not press down onthe rear spoiler as you may damageit.

See page 141 for loading cargo andweight limit information. Keep thetrunk lid closed at all times whiledriving to avoid damaging it.


TRUNK RELEASE BUTTON

Push

MASTER KEY

Keys and Locks

TRUNK MAIN SWITCH

To protect items in the trunk whenyou need to give the key to someoneelse:

1. Disable the trunk release buttonby turning off the trunk mainswitch in the glove box.

2. Lock the glove box with themaster key.

3. Give the person the valet key.

Emergency Trunk Opener(U.S. models only)

As a safety feature, your car has arelease lever on the trunk latch sothe trunk can be opened from theinside.

To open the trunk, push up therelease lever.

Parents should decide if theirchildren should be shown how to usethis feature.

For more information about childsafety, see page 22 .


Keys and Locks

Open the glove box by squeezing thehandle. Close it with a firm push.Lock or unlock the glove box withthe master key.

The glove box light comes on onlywhen the instrument panel lights

Documents

2001 NSX Online Reference Owner's Manual Contentstechinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/OM/AH/BNS0101OM/enu/NS0101OM.pdfExcessive speed is a major factor in crash injuries and deaths. Generally,