2005 RSX Online Reference Owner's Manual Contentstechinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/OM/AH/BRS0505OM/enu/RS...2005 RSX Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout

2005 RSX Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.

Contents

Owner's Identification Form Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety ................................................................................................................. ii

Your Vehicle at a Glance .....................................................................................................................4Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................7Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls ................................................................................................................. 49Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Features .............................................................................................................................................. 87How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 119What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 133The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 153The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.

Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 191This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 215ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 227A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 231How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...................................................................................................................................................... I

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

This Owner’s Manual should be considered apermanent part of the vehicle and shouldremain with the vehicle when it is sold.

This Owner’s Manual covers all models ofthe Acura RSX. You may find descriptions ofequipment and features that are not on yourparticular model.

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

Owner’s Identif ication

POUR CLIENTS CANADIENAVIS IMPORTANT: Si vous avezbesoin d’un Manuel du Conducteuren français, veuillez demander àvotre concessionnaire decommander le numéro de pièce33S6MC30

OWNER

ADDRESS

V. I. N.

DELIVERY DATE

DEALER NAME DEALER NO.

ADDRESS

OWNER’S SIGNATURE

DEALER’S SIGNATURE

STREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/POSTAL CODE

(Date sold to original retail purchaser)

STREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/POSTAL CODE

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 vehicle soyou can refer to it at any time.

Maintaining your vehicle according to the schedules given in this manualhelps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment.When your vehicle needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Acura dealer’sstaff is specially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Acura.Your Acura dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased toanswer any questions and concerns.

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

As you read this manual, you willfind information that is preceded bya symbol. Thisinformation is intended to help youavoid damage to your vehicle, otherproperty, or the environment.

California Proposition 65 Warning

This product containsor emits chemicals known to theState of California to cause cancerand birth defects or otherreproductive harm.

Event Data Recorders

This vehicle is equipped with one ormore recording devices commonlyreferred to as event data recordersor sensing and diagnostic modules.

Congratulations! Your selection of a 2005 Acura RSX was a wise investment.It will give you years of driving pleasure.

Introduction

WARNING:

i

－－

－

－－

－

Your safety, and the safety of others,is very important. And operating thisvehicle 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 vehicle. You mustuse your own good judgement.

You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms,including:

on the vehicle.preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of

three signal words: , , or .These signal words mean:

such as Important Safety Reminders or ImportantSafety Precautions.

such as Driver and Passenger Safety.how to use this vehicle correctly and safely.

This entire book is filled with important safety information please read itcarefully.

A Few Words About Safety

Safety LabelsSafety Messages

Safety Headings

Safety SectionInstructions

DANGER WARNING CAUTION

ii

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.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

4

DOOR ANDHATCH LOCK SWITCH

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES

HEATING/COOLINGCONTROLS

AUDIO SYSTEM

SHIFT LEVERFUEL FILLDOOR RELEASE

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

(P. 67)

INDICATORSGAUGES

MIRROR CONTROLS

(P. 122)

(P. 123)

(P. 136, 139)

(P. 92)

(P. 88)

PARKING BRAKE

(P. 80) (P. 57)(P. 51)

(P. 81)

(P. 77)

＊

＊

To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.:

Your Vehicle at a GlanceY

ourV

ehicleata

Glance

5

TILT ADJUSTMENT

INSTRUMENT PANELBRIGHTNESS

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

CRUISE CONTROL

MOONROOF

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS

HAZARD WARNING BUTTON

(P. 115)

(P. 62) (P. 62)

(P. 60)

(P. 62)

(P. 63)(P. 61)

(P. 79)

HORN

6

－

This section gives you importantinformation about how to protectyourself and your passengers. Itshows you how to use seat belts. Itexplains how your airbags work. Andit tells you how to properly restraininfants and children in your vehicle.

.........Important Safety Precautions . 8.......Your Vehicle’s Safety Features . 9

.........Protecting Adults and Teens . 13.....1. Close and Lock the Doors . 13

...........2. Adjust the Front Seats . 13............3. Adjust the Seat-Backs . 14

4. Fasten and Position the...Lap/Shoulder Seat Belts . 15

5. Maintain a Proper Sitting................................Position . 16

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

Additional Information About.......................Your Seat Belts . 19

..Seat Belt System Components . 19......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 19

Automatic Seat Belt...............................Tensioners . 20

...............Seat Belt Maintenance . 21Additional Information About

...........................Your Airbags . 22......Airbag System Components . 22

How Your Front Airbags.........................................Work . 23

...How Your Side Airbags Work . 25..How the SRS Indicator Works . 26

How the Side Airbag Off......................Indicator Works . 27

.............................Airbag Service . 27...Additional Safety Precautions . 27

Protecting Children General................................Guidelines . 28

All Children Must Be...............................Restrained . 28

All Children Should Sit in a.................................Back Seat . 29

The Passenger’s Front Airbag................Poses Serious Risks . 29

If You Must Drive with.....................Several Children . 30

If a Child Requires Close..................................Attention . 31

...Additional Safety Precautions . 31Protecting Infants and Small

...................................Children . 32.......................Protecting Infants . 32

.........Protecting Small Children . 33.....................Selecting a Child Seat . 34....................Installing a Child Seat . 35

Installing a Child Seat...........................With LATCH . 36..........................With a Seat Belt . 38

..............................With a Tether . 39...........Protecting Larger Children . 41

...............Checking Seat Belt Fit . 41..................Using a Booster Seat . 42

When Can a Child Sit in Larger.........................................Front . 43

...Additional Safety Precautions . 44.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 45

...................................Safety Labels . 46

Driver and Passenger SafetyD

riverand

Passenger

Safety

7

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

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

Having 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 ).

A seat belt is your best protection inall types of collisions. Airbags aredesigned to supplement seat belts,not replace them. So even thoughyour vehicle is equipped with airbags,make sure you and your passengersalways wear your seat belts, andwear them properly (see page ).

Children age 12 and under shouldride properly restrained in a backseat, not the front seat. Infants andsmall children should be restrainedin a child seat. Larger childrenshould use a booster seat and a lap/shoulder belt until they can use thebelt properly without a booster seat

(see page ).

While 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

).

Alcohol and driving don’t mix. Evenone drink can reduce your ability torespond to changing conditions, andyour reaction time gets worse withevery additional drink. So don’t drinkand drive, and don’t let your friendsdrink and drive, either.

15

42

13

157

Important Safety Precautions

Always Wear Your Seat Belt

Control Your Speed

Keep Your Vehicle in SafeCondition

Restrain All Children

Be Aware of Airbag Hazards

Don’t Drink and Drive

8

Your vehicle is equipped with manyfeatures that work together toprotect you and your passengersduring a crash.

Some features do not require anyaction on your part. These include astrong steel framework that forms asafety cage around the passengercompartment; front and rear crushzones; a collapsible steering column;and tensioners that tighten the frontseat belts in a crash.

CONTINUED

Your Vehicle’s Safety FeaturesD

riverand

Passenger

Safety

9

(8) Side Airbags(9) Seat Belt Tensioners(10) Door Locks

(1) Safety Cage(2) Crush Zone(3) Seats and Seat-Backs(4) Head Restraints(5) Collapsible Steering Column(6) Seat Belts(7) Front Airbags

(7)

(10)

(1) (3) (4) (6)

(8)

(2)

(9)(7)(5)

(2)

Your vehicle is equipped with seatbelts in all seating positions.

Your seat belt system also includesan indicator on the instrument panelto remind you and your passengersto fasten your seat belts.

However, you and your passengerscan’t take full advantage of thesefeatures unless you remain sitting ina proper position and

. In fact, some safetyfeatures can contribute to injuries ifthey are not used properly.

The following pages explain how youcan take an active role in protectingyourself and your passengers. Seat belts are the single most

effective safety device for adults andlarger children. (Infants and smallerchildren must be properly restrainedin child seats.)

Not wearing a seat belt properlyincreases the chance of seriousinjury or death in a crash, eventhough your vehicle 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 thevehicle’s built-in safety features.

Help protect you in almost everytype of crash, including frontal,side, and rear impacts androllovers.

Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

Seat Belts

always wearyour seat belts

Why Wear Seat Belts

10

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

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

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.

Always wearyour seat belt, and make sure youwear it properly.

Your vehicle has a SupplementalRestraint System (SRS) with frontairbags to help protect the heads andchests of the driver and a front seatpassenger during a moderate tosevere frontal collision (see page

for more information on howyour front airbags work).

Your vehicle also has side airbags tohelp protect the upper torso of thedriver or a front seat passengerduring a moderate to severe sideimpact (see page for moreinformation on how your side airbagswork).

25

23


What you should do:

Airbags

Driver

andP

assengerSafety

11

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

They are designed to supplementthe seat belts.

To dotheir job, airbags must inflate withtremendous force. So whileairbags help save lives, they cancause minor injuries or moreserious or even fatal injuries ifoccupants are not properlyrestrained or sitting properly.

Always wearyour seat belt properly, and situpright and as far back from thesteering wheel as possible whileallowing full control of the vehicle. Afront passenger should move theirseat as far back from the dashboardas possible.

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 severe crash,even when seat belts are properlyworn and the airbags deploy.


Airbags do not replace seat belts.

Airbags offer no protection in rearimpacts, or minor frontal or sidecollisions.

Airbags can pose hazards.

What you should do:

12

－

After everyone has entered thevehicle, be sure the doors are closedand locked.

Adjust the driver’s seat as far to therear as possible while allowing you tomaintain full control of the vehicle.Have a front passenger adjust theirseat as far to the rear as possible.

If you sit too close to the steeringwheel or dashboard, you can beseriously injured by an inflating frontairbag, or by striking the steeringwheel or dashboard.

See pages for importantguidelines on how to properlyprotect infants, small children, andlarger children who ride in yourvehicle.

Locking the doors also helps preventan outsider from unexpectedlyopening a door when you come to astop.

Your vehicle has a doormonitor indicator on the

instrument panel to indicate when aspecific door is not tightly closed.

Locking the doors reduces thechance of someone being thrown outof the vehicle during a crash, and ithelps prevent passengers fromaccidentally opening a door andfalling out.

See page for how to lock thedoors, and page for how the doormonitor indicator works.

The following pages provideinstructions on how to properlyprotect the driver, adult passengersand teenage children who are largeenough and mature enough to driveor ride in the front seat.

44

67

32

54

CONTINUED

Introduction Close and Lock the Doors Adjust the Front Seats1. 2.

Protecting Adults and TeensD

riverand

Passenger

Safety

13

The National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration and TransportCanada recommend that driversallow at least 10 inches (25 cm)between the center of the steeringwheel and the chest.

If you cannot get far enough awayfrom the steering wheel and stillreach the controls, we recommendthat you investigate whether sometype of adaptive equipment may help. Once your seat is adjusted correctly,

rock it back and forth to make sure itis locked in position.

See page for how to adjust thefront seats.

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.

Passengers with adjustable seat-backs should also adjust their seat-back to a comfortable, uprightposition.

71

Protecting Adults and Teens

Adjust the Seat-Backs3.

14

Sitting too close to a frontairbag can result in seriousinjury or death if the frontairbags inflate.

Always sit as far back from thefront airbags as possible.

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.

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

See page for how to adjust theseat-backs.

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.

71

CONTINUED

Fasten and Position the SeatBelts

4.

Protecting Adults and TeensD

riverand

Passenger

Safety

15

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.

If a seat belt doesn’t seem to workproperly, it may not protect theoccupant in a crash.

This could causevery serious injuries in a crash.

Using a seatbelt that is not working properly canresult in serious injury or death.Have your dealer check the belt assoon as possible.

See page for additionalinformation about your seat beltsand how to take care of them.

If necessary, pull up on the belt againto remove any slack, then check thatthe belt rests across the center ofyour chest and over your shoulder.This spreads the forces of a crashover the strongest bones in yourupper body.

After all occupants have adjustedtheir seats and put on seat belts, it isvery important that they continue tosit upright, well back in their seats,with their feet on the floor, until thevehicle is parked and the engine isoff.

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.

19


Never place the shoulder portion of alap/shoulder belt under your arm orbehind your back.

No one should sit in a seat with aninoperative seat belt.

Maintain a Proper SittingPosition

5.

16

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

Make sure all seat belts areproperly positioned beforedriving.

When driving, remember to situpright and adjust the seat as farback as possible while allowing fullcontrol of the vehicle. When ridingas a front passenger, adjust the seatas far back as possible.This will reduce the risk of injuriesto both you and your unborn childthat can be caused by a crash or aninflating front airbag.

Each time you have a checkup, askyour doctor if it’s okay for you todrive.

If you are pregnant, the best way toprotect yourself and your unbornchild when driving or riding in avehicle is to always wear a seat belt,and keep the lap part of the belt aslow as possible across the hips.

In addition, an occupant who is out ofposition in the front seat can beseriously or fatally injured in a crashby striking interior parts of thevehicle or being struck by aninflating airbag.


Advice for Pregnant Women

Driver

andP

assengerSafety

17

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

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

If a side airbaginflates, a cup holder or other hardobject attached on or near thedoor could be propelled inside thevehicle and hurt someone.

If yourhands or arms are close to anairbag cover, they could be injuredif the airbag inflates.

Carrying hard or sharpobjects on your lap, or driving witha pipe or other sharp object inyour mouth, can result in injuriesif your front airbag inflates.

Objects onthe covers marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG’’could interfere with the properoperation of the airbags or bepropelled inside the vehicle andhurt someone if the airbags inflate.

If they do, theycould be very seriously injured in acrash.

Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt canreduce the protective capability ofthe seat belt and increase thechance of serious injury in a crash.


Do not attach hard objects on ornear a door.

Keep your hands and arms awayfrom the airbag covers.

Do not place hard or sharp objectsbetween yourself and a frontairbag.

Do not attach or place objects onthe front airbag covers.

Two people should never use thesame seat belt.

Do not put any accessories on seatbelts.

Additional Safety Precautions

18

CONTINUED

The lap and shoulder belt goes overyour shoulder, across your chest,and across your hips.

To fasten the belt, insert the latchplate into the buckle, then tug on thebelt to make sure the buckle islatched (see page for how toproperly position the belt).

To unlock the belt, push the redPRESS button on the buckle. Guidethe belt across your body so that itretracts completely. After exiting thevehicle, be sure the belt is out of theway and will not get closed in thedoor.

All 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 collisionor sudden stop, the retractorautomatically locks the belt to helprestrain your body.

The seat belts in all positions exceptthe driver’s have an additionallocking mechanism that must beactivated to secure a child seat (seepage ).

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.

Your seat belt system includes lap/shoulder belts in all four seatingpositions. The front seat belts arealso equipped with automatic seatbelt tensioners.

The seat belt systemincludes an indicator on the

instrument panel to remind you andyour passengers to fasten your belts.

If you turn the ignition switch to ON(II) without fastening your belt, abeeper will sound and the indicatorwill blink. The beeper will stop aftera few seconds, but the indicator willstay on until the driver’s seat belt isfastened.

15

38

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt

Driver

andP

assengerSafety

19

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

For added protection, the front seatbelts are equipped with automaticseat belt tensioners. When activated,the tensioners immediately tightenthe belts to help hold the driver anda front passenger in place.

The tensioners are designed toactivate primarily in frontal collisions,and they should activate in anycollision severe enough to causefront-airbag inflation.

When the tensioners are activated,the seat belts will remain tight untilthey are unbuckled in the normalmanner.

The tensioners can also be activatedduring a collision in which the frontairbags do not deploy. In this case,the airbags would not be needed, butthe additional restraint could behelpful.


Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners

20

For safety, you should check thecondition of your seat belts regularly.

Acura provides a lifetime warrantyon seat belts for U.S. models. Seeyourbooklet for details.

Pull each belt out fully and look forfrays, cuts, burns, and wear. Checkthat the latches work smoothly andthe belts retract easily. Any belt thatis not in good condition or notworking properly will not providegood protection and should bereplaced as soon as possible.

If a seat belt is worn during a crash,it must be replaced by your dealer. Abelt that has been worn during acrash may not provide the same levelof protection in a subsequent crash.

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

The dealer should also inspect theanchors for damage and replacethem if needed. If the automatic seatbelt tensioners activate during acrash, they must be replaced.

179

Acura Warranty Information


Seat Belt Maintenance

Driver

andP

assengerSafety

21

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.

Your airbag system includes:

Two side airbags, one for thedriver and one for a frontpassenger. The airbags are storedin the outer edges of the seat-backs. Both are marked ‘‘SIDEAIRBAG’’ (see page ).

Sensors that can detect amoderate to severe frontal or sideimpact.

Two SRS (Supplemental RestraintSystem) 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’’ (see page ).

Automatic front seat belttensioners (see page ).

Emergency backup power in caseyour vehicle’s electrical system isdisconnected in a crash.

An indicator on the instrumentpanel that alerts you that thepassenger’s side airbag has beenturned off (see page ).

Sensors that can detect whether achild is in the passenger’s sideairbag path and automatically turnthe airbag off (see page ).

An indicator on the instrumentpanel that alerts you to a possibleproblem with your airbags,sensors, or seat belt tensioners(see page ).

A sophisticated electronic systemthat continually monitors andrecords information about thesensors, the control unit, theairbag activators, the seat belttensioners, and driver and frontpassenger seat belt use when theignition is in the ON (II) position.

23

2026

27

25

25

Airbag System Components

Additional Information About Your Airbags

22

CONTINUED

After inflating, the front airbags willimmediately deflate, so they won’tinterfere with the driver’s visibility,or the ability to steer or operateother controls.

During a frontal crash, your seat beltrestrains your lower body and torso,and the front airbag helps protectyour head and chest.

Although both airbags normallyinflate within split second of eachother, it is possible for only oneairbag to deploy.

This can happen if the severity of acollision 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.

If you ever have a moderate tosevere frontal collision, sensors willdetect the vehicle’s rapiddeceleration.

If the rate of deceleration is highenough, the control unit will instantlyinflate the driver’s and frontpassenger’s front airbags, at the timeand with the force needed.


How Your Front Airbags Work

Driver

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23

Your front airbags are also dual-threshold airbags. Airbags with thisfeature have two deploymentthresholds that depend on whetheror not the occupant is wearing a seatbelt.

If the occupant’s belt is ,the airbag will deploy at the samethreshold as a conventional airbag.

If the occupant’s belt , theairbag will inflate at a slightly higherthreshold, when the airbag would beneeded to supplement the protectionprovided by the seat belt.

Your front airbags are dual-stageairbags. This means they have twoinflation stages that can be ignitedsequentially or simultaneously,depending on crash severity.

In a crash, both stageswill ignite simultaneously to providethe quickest and greatest protection.

In a crash, one stage willignite first, then the second stagewill ignite a split second later. Thisprovides longer airbag inflation timewith a little less force.

The total time for inflation anddeflation is one-tenth of a second, sofast that most occupants are notaware that the airbags deployed untilthey see them lying 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 vehicle as soon as it is safe to doso.


Dual-Threshold AirbagsDual-Stage Airbags

not latched

is latched

more severe

less severe

24

If you ever have a moderate tosevere side impact, sensors willdetect rapid deceleration and signalthe control unit to instantly inflateeither the driver’s or the passenger’sside airbag.

Only one airbag will deploy during aside impact. If the impact is on thepassenger’s side, the passenger’sside airbag will deploy even if thereis no passenger.

To get the best protection from theside airbags, front seat occupantsshould wear their seat belts and situpright and well back in their seats.

To reduce the risk of injury from aninflating side airbag, your vehicle hasan automatic cutoff system for thepassenger’s side airbag.

Although Acura does not encouragechildren to ride in front, this systemis designed to shut off the sideairbag if a child leans into the sideairbag’s path.

The side airbag may also shut off if ashort adult leans sideways, or alarger adult slouches and leanssideways into the airbag’sdeployment path.

Objects placed on the frontpassenger seat can also cause theside airbag to be shut off.

CONTINUED

How Your Side Airbags Work


Side Airbag Cutoff System

Driver

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25

If you see any of these indications,the airbags and seat belt tensionersmay not work properly when youneed them.

The SRS indicator alertsyou to a potential problem

with your airbags or seat belttensioners.

When you turn the ignition switch toON (II), this indicator will come onbriefly then go out. This tells you thesystem is working properly.

If the indicator comes on at anyother time, or does not come on at all,you should have the system checkedby your dealer. For example:

If the SRS indicator does not comeon after you turn the ignitionswitch to ON (II).

If the indicator stays on after theengine starts.

If the indicator comes on orflashes on and off while you drive.

If the Side Airbag Off Indicatorcomes on (see page ), have thepassenger sit upright. Once thepassenger is out of the airbag’sdeployment path, the system willturn the airbag back on, and theindicator will go out.

There will be some delay betweenthe moment the passenger movesinto or out of the airbag deploymentpath and when the indicator comeson or goes off.

A front seat passenger should notuse a cushion or other object as abackrest. It may prevent the cutoffsystem from working properly.

27


How the SRS Indicator Works

26

Ignoring the SRS indicator canresult in serious injury or deathif the airbag systems ortensioners do not work properly.

Have your vehicle checked by adealer as soon as possible ifthe SRS indicator alerts you toa possible problem.

Your airbag systems are virtuallymaintenance free, and there are noparts you can safely service.However, you must have yourvehicle serviced if:

Any airbagthat has deployed must bereplaced along with the controlunit and other related parts. If afront airbag inflates, the seat belttensioners must also be replaced.

Do not try to remove or replaceany airbag by yourself. This mustbe done by your dealer or aknowledgeable body shop.

Take your vehicle to anauthorized dealer as soon aspossible. If you ignore thisindication, your airbags may notoperate properly.

Together, airbags andseat belts provide the bestprotection.

Tampering could causethe airbags to deploy, possiblycausing very serious injury.

Improperly replacingor covering front seat-back coverscan prevent your side airbags frominflating during a side impact.

This indicatoralerts you that the

passenger’s side airbag has beenautomatically shut off. It doesmean there is a problem with yourside airbags.

When you turn the ignition switch toON (II), the indicator should comeon briefly and go out (see page ).If it doesn’t light, stays on, or comeson while driving without a passengerin the front seat, have the systemchecked.

52


How the Side Airbag OffIndicator Works

Airbag Service Additional Safety Precautions

An airbag ever inflates.

The SRS indicator alerts you to aproblem.

Do not attempt to deactivate yourairbags.

Do not tamper with airbagcomponents or wiring for anyreason.

Do not cover or replace front seat-back covers without consultingyour dealer.

not

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27

U.S. Canada

－－

－

Children depend on adults to protectthem. However, despite their bestintentions, many adults do not knowhow to protect childpassengers.

If you have children, or ever need todrive with a child in your vehicle, besure to read this section. It beginswith important general guidelines,then presents special information forinfants, small children, and largerchildren.

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

To reduce the number of childdeaths and injuries, every U.S. stateand Canadian province requires thatinfants and children be properlyrestrained when they ride in avehicle.

(see pages ).(see pages ).4441

32 33

properly

All Children Must Be Restrained

Infants and small children must berestrained in an approved child seatthat is properly secured to thevehicle

Larger children must be restrainedwith a lap/shoulder belt and ride ona booster seat until the seat belt f itsthem properly

Protecting Children General Guidelines

28

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 anduse a booster seat if necessary.

－

Whenever possible,larger children should sit in the backseat, on a booster seat if needed, andbe properly restrained with a seatbelt (see page for importantinformation about protecting largerchildren).

According to accident statistics,children of all ages and sizes aresafer when they are restrained in aback seat. The National HighwayTraffic Safety Administration andTransport Canada recommend thatall children age 12 and under beproperly restrained in a back seat.

Children who ride in back are lesslikely to be injured by strikinginterior vehicle parts during acollision or hard braking. Also,children cannot be injured by aninflating front airbag when they ridein the back.

Front airbags have been designed tohelp protect adults in a moderate tosevere frontal collisions. To do thisthe passenger’s front airbag is quitelarge, and it can inflate with enoughforce to cause very serious injuries.

Ifthe airbag inflates, it can hit the backof the child seat with enough forceto kill or very seriously injure aninfant.

If the vehicle seat is toofar forward, or the child’s head isthrown forward during a collision, aninflating front airbag can strike thechild with enough force to kill orvery seriously injure a small child.

41

Children who have outgrown childseats are also at risk of being injuredor killed by an inflating passenger’sfront airbag.

InfantsNever put a rear-facing child seat inthe front seat of a vehicle equippedwith a passenger’s front airbag.

Small ChildrenPlacing a forward-facing child seat inthe front seat of a vehicle equippedwith passenger’s front airbag can behazardous.

Larger Children

All Children Should Sit in a BackSeat

The Passenger’s Front AirbagPoses Serious Risks

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－

To remind you of the passenger’sfront airbag hazards, and thatchildren must be properly restrainedin a back seat, your vehicle haswarning labels on the dashboard andon the front visors. Please read andfollow the instructions on theselabels.

Your vehicle has a back seat wherechildren can be properly restrained.If you ever have to carry a group ofchildren, and a child must ride infront:

Place the largest child in the frontseat, provided the child is largeenough to wear the lap/shoulderbelt properly (see page ).

Move the vehicle seat as far to therear as possible (see page ).

Have the child sit upright and wellback in the seat (see page ).

Make sure the seat belt is properlypositioned and secured (see page

).

41

16

13

15

Canadian Models

U.S. Models

If You Must Drive with SeveralChildren

Protecting Children General Guidelines

30

－

Many parents say they prefer to putan infant or small child in the frontpassenger seat so they can watch thechild, or because the child requiresattention.

Placing a child in the front seatexposes the child to hazards in afrontal collision, and paying closeattention to a child distracts thedriver from the important tasks ofdriving, placing both of you at risk.

If a child requires physical attentionor frequent visual contact, westrongly recommend that anotheradult ride with the child in the backseat. The back seat is far safer for achild than the front.


If you are not wearing aseat belt in a crash, you could bethrown forward and crush thechild against the dashboard or aseat-back. If you are wearing aseat belt the child can be tornfrom your arms and be seriouslyhurt or killed.

Leaving children withoutadult supervision is illegal in moststates and Canadian provinces,and can be very hazardous.

For example, infants and smallchildren left in a vehicle on a hotday can die from heatstroke. Achild left alone with the key in theignition can accidentally set thevehicle in motion, possibly injuringthemselves or others.

Children who play in vehicles canaccidentally get trapped inside.Teach your children not to play inor around vehicles.

Even very youngchildren learn how to unlockvehicle doors, turn on the ignitionswitch, and open the hatch, whichcan lead to accidental injury ordeath.

During a crash, thebelt could press deep into the childand cause serious or fatal injuries.

If a Child Requires CloseAttention


Never let two children use thesame seat belt.

Never hold an infant or child onyour lap.

Do not leave children alone in avehicle.

Lock both doors and the hatchwhen your vehicle is not in use.

Keep vehicle keys and remotetransmitters out of reach ofchildren.

Never put a seat belt over yourselfand a child.

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An infant must be properlyrestrained in a rear-facing, recliningchild seat until the child reaches theseat maker’s weight or height limitfor the seat and the child is at leastone year old.

Only a rear-facing child seat providesproper support for a baby’s head,neck, and back.

Two types of seats may be used: aseat designed exclusively for infants,or a convertible seat used in the rear-facing, reclining mode.

If placedfacing forward, an infant could bevery seriously injured during afrontal collision.

A rear-facing child seat can be placedin any seating position in the backseat, but not in the front.

If the passenger’s front airbaginflates, it can hit the back of thechild seat with enough force to kill orseriously injure an infant.

When properly installed, a rear-facing child seat may prevent thedriver or a front passenger frommoving the seat as far back asrecommended, or from locking theseat-back in the desired position.

Protecting Infants and Small Children

Protecting Infants

Do not put a rear-facing child seat ina forward-facing position.

Never put arear-facing child seat in the frontseat.

Child Seat Placement

Child Seat Type

32

A child who is at least one year old,and who fits within the child seatmaker’s weight and height limits,should be restrained in a forward-facing, upright child seat.

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

In either situation, we stronglyrecommend that you install the childseat directly behind the frontpassenger seat, move the front seatas far forward as needed, and leave itunoccupied. Or you may wish to geta smaller child seat that allows youto safely carry a front passenger.

We strongly recommend placing aforward-facing child seat in a backseat, not the front.

If it is necessary to put a forward-facing child seat in the front, movethe vehicle seat as far to the rear aspossible, be sure the child seat isfirmly secured to the vehicle, and thechild is properly strapped in the seat.

Protecting Small Children

Protecting Infants and Small Children

Child Seat Type

Child Seat Placement

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Placing a rear-facing child seatin the front seat can result inserious injury or death if thepassenger’s front airbag inflates.

Always place a rear-facing childseat in the back seat, not thefront.

Placing a forward-facing childseat in the front seat can resultin serious injury or death if thefront airbag inflates.

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

When buying a child seat, you needto choose either a conventional childseat, or one designed for use withthe Lower Anchors and Tethers forChildren (LATCH) system.

Conventional child seats must besecured to a vehicle with a seat belt,whereas LATCH-compatible seatsare secured by attaching the seat tohardware built into the rear seats.

Since LATCH-compatible child seatsare easier to install and reduce thepossibility of improper installation,we recommend selecting this style.

We also recommend selecting aLATCH-compatible seat with a rigid,rather than a flexible, anchor (seepage ).

In seating positions and vehicles notequipped with LATCH, a LATCH-compatible child seat can be installedusing a seat belt.

Whatever type of seat you choose, toprovide proper protection, a childseat should meet threerequirements:

Look for FMVSS213 or CMVSS 213 on the box.

Rear-facing for infants, forward-facing for small children.

Before purchasing a conventionalchild seat, or using a previouslypurchased one, we recommend thatyou test the seat in the specificvehicle seating position, or positions,where the seat will be used.

1.

2.

3.

36

Selecting a Child Seat

The child seat should meet U.S. orCanadian Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard 213.

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

The child seat should fit thevehicle seating position (orpositions) where it will be used.

34

After selecting a proper child seat,and a good place to install the seat,there are three main steps ininstalling the seat:

All child seats must besecured to the vehicle with the lappart of a lap/shoulder belt or withthe LATCH (Lower Anchors andTethers for Children) system. Achild whose seat is not properlysecured to the vehicle can beendangered in a crash.

After installing a childseat, push and pull the seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure.

A child seat secured with a seat beltshould be installed as firmly aspossible. However, it does not needto be ‘‘rock solid.’’ Some side-to-sidemovement can be expected andshould not reduce the child seat’seffectiveness.

If the child seat is not secure, tryinstalling it in a different seatingposition, or use a different style ofchild seat that can be firmly secured.

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 seriously injured in a crash.

The following pages provideguidelines on how to properly installa child seat. A forward-facing childseat is used in all examples, but theinstructions are the same for a rear-facing child seat.1.

2.

3.

Properly secure the child seat tothe vehicle.

Make sure the child seat is firmlysecured.

Secure the child in the child seat.

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Your vehicle is equipped withLATCH (Lower Anchors andTethers for Children) at the rearseats.

The lower anchors are locatedbetween the seat-back and seatbottom, and are to be used only witha child seat designed for use withLATCH.

To install a LATCH-compatible childseat:

Move the seat belt buckle ortongue away from the loweranchors.

Make sure there are no objectsnear the anchors that couldprevent a secure connectionbetween the child seat and theanchors.

Place the child seat on the vehicleseat, then attach the seat to thelower anchors according to thechild seat maker’s instructions.

Some LATCH-compatible seatshave a rigid-type connector asshown above.

The location of each anchor isindicated by a small button above theanchor point.

1.

2.

3.

Installing a Child Seat

Installing a Child Seat withLATCH

36

LOWER ANCHORS

LOWER ANCHORMARKS

Rigid type

Other LATCH-compatible seats havea flexible-type connector as shownabove.

Whatever type you have, followthe child seat maker’s instructionsfor adjusting or tightening the fit.

Route the tether strap over the topof the seat-back, making sure thestrap is not twisted.

Attach the tether strap hook to thetether anchor, then tighten thestrap as instructed by the childseat maker.

Push and pull the child seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure.

4.

5.

6.

7.


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Flexible type

When not using the LATCH system,all child seats must be secured to thevehicle with the lap part of a lap/shoulder belt.

With the child seat in the desiredseating position, route the beltthrough the child seat accordingto the seat maker’s instructions,then insert the latch plate into thebuckle.

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.

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.

In addition, the lap/shoulder belts inall seating positions except thedriver’s have a locking mechanismthat must be activated to secure achild seat.

1. 2.

3.

Installing a Child Seat with a Lap/Shoulder Belt


38

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.

To remove slack, it may help toput weight on the child seat, orpush on the back of the seat whilepulling up on the belt.

A child seat with a tether can beinstalled in either seating position inthe back seat, using one of theanchorage points.

Push and pull the child seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is firmly securedduring normal driving maneuvers.If the child seat is not secure,unlatch the belt, allow it to retractfully, then repeat these steps.

To deactivate the lockingmechanism and remove a child seat,unlatch the buckle, unroute the seatbelt, and let the belt fully retract.

Since a tether can provide additionalsecurity to the lap/shoulder beltinstallation, we recommend using atether whenever one is required oravailable.

4. 5.

CONTINUED

Installing a Child Seat with aTether


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The tether anchorage points arelocated under plastic covers. Pivotthe cover downward to access theanchorage point.

After properly securing the childseat (see page ), route thetether strap over the seat-back.

Attach the tether strap hook to theanchor, making sure the strap isnot twisted.

Tighten the strap according to theseat maker’s instructions.

1.

2.

3.

38


40

TETHER ANCHORAGE POINT

COVER

To determine if a lap/shoulder beltproperly fits a child, have the childput on the seat belt, then askyourself:

Does the child sit all the way backagainst the seat?

Do the child’s knees bendcomfortably over the edge of theseat?

When a child reaches therecommended weight or height limitfor a forward-facing child seat, thechild should sit in a back seat on abooster seat and wear a lap/shoulderbelt.

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 sit in front.

1.

2.

CONTINUED

Protecting Larger Children

Checking Seat Belt Fit

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Allowing a child age 12 or underto sit in front can result in injuryor death if the passenger’s frontairbag inflates.

If a child must ride in front,move the vehicle seat as farback as possible, use a boosterseat if needed, have the childsit up properly and wear theseat belt properly.

Does the shoulder belt crossbetween the child’s neck and arm?

Is the lap part of the belt as low aspossible, touching the child’sthighs?

Will the child be able to stayseated like this for the whole trip?

If you answer yes to all thesequestions, the child is ready to wearthe lap/shoulder belt correctly. Ifyou answer no to any question, thechild needs to ride on a booster seat. A child who has outgrown a forward-

facing child seat should ride in aback seat and use a booster seatuntil the lap/shoulder belt fits themproperly without the booster.

Some states also require children touse a booster seat until they reach agiven age or weight (e.g., 6 years or60 lbs). Be sure to check currentlaws in the state or states where youintend to drive.

Booster seats can be high-back orlow-back. Whichever style you select,make sure the booster seat meetsfederal safety standards (see page

) and that you follow the boosterseat maker’s instructions.

If a child who uses a booster seatmust ride in front, move the vehicleseat as far to the rear as possible,and be sure the child is wearing theseat belt properly.

A child may continue using a boosterseat until the tops of their ears areeven with the top of the vehicle’s orbooster’s seat-back. A child of thisheight should be tall enough to usethe lap/shoulder belt without abooster seat.

3.

4.

5.

34


Using a Booster Seat

42

The National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration and TransportCanada recommend that all childrenage 12 and under be properlyrestrained in the back seat.

If the passenger’s front airbaginflates in a moderate to severefrontal collision, the airbag can causeserious injuries to a child who isunrestrained, improperly restrained,sitting too close to the airbag, or outof position.

A side airbag also poses risks. If anypart of a larger child’s body is in thepath of a deploying side airbag, thechild could receive possibly seriousinjuries.

Of course, children vary widely. Andwhile age may be one indicator ofwhen a child can safely ride in front,there are other important factors youshould consider.

Physically, a child must be largeenough for the lap/shoulder belt toproperly fit (see page ). If the seatbelt does not fit properly, with orwithout the child sitting on a boosterseat, the child should not sit in front.

To safely ride in front, a child mustbe able to follow the rules, includingsitting properly, and wearing the seatbelt properly throughout a ride.

If you decide that a child can safelyride up front, be sure to:

Carefully read the owner’s manual,and 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 and securely positioned.

Supervise the child. Even maturechildren sometimes need to bereminded to fasten the seat beltsor sit properly.

41


When Can a Larger Child Sit inFront

Physical Size

Maturity

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This could resultin serious neck injuries during acrash.

This couldcause very serious injuries duringa crash. It also increases thechance that the child will slideunder the belt in a crash and beinjured.


Devices intended toimprove a child’s comfort orreposition the shoulder part of aseat belt can make the belt lesseffective and increase the chanceof serious injury in a crash.


Do not let a child wear a seat beltacross the neck.

Do not let a child put the shoulderpart of a seat belt behind the backor under the arm.

Two children should never use thesame seat belt.

Do not put any accessories on aseat belt.


44

Your vehicle’s exhaust containscarbon monoxide gas. You shouldhave no problem with carbonmonoxide entering the vehicle innormal driving if you maintain yourvehicle properly.

High levels of carbon monoxide cancollect 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 thevehicle out of the garage.

With the hatch open, air flow canpull exhaust gas into your vehicle’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 vehiclewith the engine running, even in anunconfined area, adjust the heatingand cooling system as follows:

Have the exhaust system inspectedfor leaks whenever:

The vehicle is raised for an oilchange.

You notice a change in the soundof the exhaust.

The vehicle was in an accidentthat may have damaged theunderside.

Push the button.

Select the mode.

Turn the fan on high speed.

Set the temperature control to acomfortable setting.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Carbon Monoxide HazardD

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

Avoid any enclosed areas oractivities that expose you tocarbon monoxide.

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 dealer for areplacement.

U.S. models only

Safety Labels

46

RADIATOR CAP DASHBOARD

HOOD

U.S. models

Canadian models

U.S. models Canadian models

Safety LabelsD

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47

SUN VISOR DOORJAMB

48

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

...........................Control Locations . 50............................Instrument Panel . 51

..........Instrument Panel Indicators . 52.............................................Gauges . 57

.....................................Odometer . 57...................................Trip Meter . 57..................................Fuel Gauge . 58

...................Temperature Gauge . 58..........Check Fuel Cap Indicator . 58

Controls Near the Steering...........................................Wheel . 59

.Windshield Wipers and Washers . 60...........Turn Signal and Headlights . 61

........Instrument Panel Brightness . 62.................Hazard Warning Button . 62.................Rear Window Defogger . 62

..........Steering Wheel Adjustment . 63...............................Keys and Locks . 64

........................Immobilizer System . 65................................Ignition Switch . 66

......................................Door Locks . 67.........Power Door/Hatch Locks . 67

............................................Hatch . 68.......................Remote Transmitter . 69

.................................................Seats . 71....................................Seat Heaters . 74

...........................Cargo Area Cover . 75..............................Power Windows . 77

.........................................Moonroof . 79.............................................Mirrors . 79

.................................Parking Brake . 81...........Interior Convenience Items . 82

.......................Beverage Holders . 83..........Accessory Power Sockets . 83

...............Console Compartment . 84....................................Glove Box . 84

..............................Vanity Mirror . 85....................................Coat Hook . 85

.................................Interior Lights . 86

Instruments and ControlsInstrum

entsand

Controls

49

AT model is shown.

Control Locations

50

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES

FUEL FILLDOOR RELEASE

MIRROR CONTROLSGAUGES

HEATING/COOLINGCONTROLS

AUDIO SYSTEM

SHIFT LEVER

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

DOOR ANDHATCH LOCK SWITCH

INDICATORS

(P. 67) (P. 88)

(P. 92)

(P. 136, 139)

(P. 123)

(P. 122)

PARKING BRAKE

(P. 77)

(P. 80)(P. 51)

(P. 57)

(P. 81)

＊

＊

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

Instrument PanelInstrum

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51

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEMINDICATOR

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

MAINTENANCE REQUIREDINDICATOR

IMMOBILIZER SYSTEMINDICATOR

SECURITY SYSTEMINDICATOR

(P. 54)

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR (P. 53)

(P. 54)

(P. 54)

(P. 56)

(P. 55)

(P. 53)

(P. 205)

(P. 53, 204)

(P. 53, 204)

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR (P. 52)

SIDE AIRBAG OFF INDICATOR (P. 52)

TURN SIGNAL AND HAZARDWARNING INDICATOR (P. 54)

(P. 52)SEAT BELT REMINDERINDICATOR

(P. 54)

SELECT/RESETBUTTON

DOOR-OPEN INDICATOR

LOW FUEL INDICATOR (P. 54)

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

This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch to ON (II). Itreminds you and your passengers tofasten your seat belts. A beeper alsosounds if you have not fastened yourseat belt.

If you do not fasten your seat belt,the beeper will stop after a fewseconds but the indicator stays onuntil you do. Both the indicator andthe beeper stay off if you fasten yourseat belt before turning on theignition.

This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch to ON (II). Ifit comes on at any other time, itindicates a potential problem withyour front airbags. This indicator willalso alert you to a potential problemwith your side airbags, passenger’sside airbag automatic cutoff system,or automatic seat belt tensioners.For more information, see page .

This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch to ON (II). Ifit comes on at any other time, itindicates that the passenger’s sideairbag has automatically shut off.For more information, see page .

26

27

Instrument Panel Indicators

Supplemental RestraintSystem Indicator

Seat Belt ReminderIndicator

Side Airbag OffIndicator

52

U.S. Canada

This indicator has two functions:

It comes on when you turn theignition switch to ON (II). It is areminder to check the parkingbrake. Driving with the parkingbrake not fully released candamage the brakes and tires.

If it remains lit after you fullyrelease the parking brake whilethe engine is running, or if itcomes on while driving, therecould be a problem with the brakesystem. For more information, seepage .

If this indicator comes on when theengine is running, the battery is notbeing charged. For more information,see page .

The engine can be severely damagedif this indicator flashes or stays onwhen the engine is running. Formore information, see page .

See page .

This indicator normally comes on fora few seconds when you turn theignition switch to ON (II), and whenthe ignition switch is turned toSTART (III). If it comes on at anyother time, there is a problem withthe ABS. If this happens, have yourvehicle checked at a dealer. Withthis on, your vehicle still has normalbraking ability but no anti-lockbrakes. For more information, seepage .

1.

2.204

147

206

204

205

Parking Brakeand BrakeSystemIndicator

Charging SystemIndicator

Low Oil PressureIndicator

Malfunction IndicatorLamp

Anti-lock Brake System(ABS) Indicator

Instrument Panel IndicatorsInstrum

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53

U.S. Canada

Only on models equipped with CruiseControl SystemThis indicator comes on when youset the cruise control. See page

for information on operating thecruise control.

This indicator comes on if eitherdoor is not closed tightly.

This indicator comes on as areminder that you must refuel soon.

The left or right turn signal indicatorblinks when you signal a lane changeor turn. If the indicator does notblink or blinks rapidly, it usuallymeans one of the turn signal bulbs isburned out (see page ). Replacethe bulb as soon as possible, sinceother drivers cannot see that you aresignaling.

When you press on the HazardWarning button, both turn signalindicators blink. All turn signals onthe outside of the vehicle shouldflash.

This indicator comes on with thehigh beam headlights. For moreinformation, see page .

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

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

115

61

17465


Cruise Control Indicator

Door-open Indicator

Low Fuel Indicator

Turn Signal andHazard WarningIndicators

High Beam Indicator

Immobilizer SystemIndicator

54

This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch to ON (II)with the 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.

This indicator comes on when thewasher fluid level is low. Add washerfluid when you see this indicatorcome on (see page ).

This indicator reminds you that it istime to take your vehicle in forscheduled maintenance.

Refer to the Maintenance Schedulesfor Normal and Severe DrivingConditions on pages and .

For the first 8,000 miles (12,800 km)after the Maintenance RequiredIndicator is reset, it will come on for2 seconds when you turn the ignitionswitch to ON (II).

Between 8,000 miles (12,800 km)and 10,000 miles (16,000 km), it willcome on for 2 seconds when youfirst turn the ignition switch to ON(II), and then flash for 10 seconds.

167

157 158

Canadian models only Canadian models only


‘‘Daytime RunningLights’’ Indicator

Washer Level Indicator Maintenance RequiredIndicator

Instruments

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ontrols

55

Press and hold the select/resetbutton in the instrument panel,then turn the ignition switch toON (II).

Hold the button for about 10seconds until the indicator goesoff.

This indicator comes on when thesecurity system is set. See page

for more information on thesecurity system.

If you exceed 10,000 miles (16,000km) without having the scheduledmaintenance performed, thisindicator will remain on as a constantreminder.

Your dealer will reset this indicatorafter completing the scheduledmaintenance. If this maintenance isdone by someone other than yourdealer, reset the indicator as follows.

Turn off the engine.1.2.

3.

114

Security System Indicator


56

SELECT/RESET BUTTON

SECURITY SYSTEM INDICATOR

The odometer shows the total dis-tance your vehicle has been driven.It measures 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.

This meter shows the number ofmiles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada)driven since you last reset it.

There are two trip meters: Trip Aand Trip B. The odometer and thetwo trip meters use the same display.Switch between these displays andthe odometer by pressing the Select/Reset button repeatedly. Each tripmeter works independently, so you

can keep track of two differentdistances.

To reset a trip meter, display it, andthen press and hold the Select/Resetbutton until the number resets to‘‘0.0.’’

Odometer Trip Meter

GaugesInstrum

entsand

Controls

57

TEMPERATURE GAUGE TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE

SELECT/RESET BUTTONODOMETER/TRIP METER

This shows how much fuel you have.It may show slightly more or lessthan the actual amount. The needlereturns to the bottom after you turnoff the ignition.

This 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 forinstructions and precautions onchecking the engine’s coolingsystem.

(Odometer/trip meter message)If your fuel cap is loose or missing, a‘‘CHECK FUEL CAP’’ messageappears as text in the odometer/tripmeter display after you start theengine. Turn the engine off andconfirm the fuel cap is installed. If itis, loosen the cap, then retighten it atleast 3 clicks. When you restart theengine, the message appears again.To clear the message, press and holdthe select/reset button until themessage is replaced the odometer/trip meter display.If the system still detects a loose ormissing fuel cap, the MalfunctionIndicator Lamp (MIL) comes on.Turn the engine off and check orretighten the fuel cap at least 3 clicks.The MIL goes out after 3 days ofnormal driving once the cap istightened or replaced. If it does notgo out, have your dealer inspect thevehicle. For more information, seepage .

202

205

Fuel Gauge Temperature Gauge Check Fuel Cap Indicator

Gauges

58

Avoid driving with an extremely lowf uel level. Running out of f uel couldcause the engine to misf ire, damagingthe catalytic converter.

＊

＊ To use the horn, press the center pad on the steering wheel.:

Controls Near the Steering WheelInstrum

entsand

Controls

59

WINDSHIELDWIPERS/WASHERS

TILT ADJUSTMENT

MOONROOF

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

CRUISE CONTROL

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS

HAZARD WARNING BUTTON

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS

HORN

－

－

－

－

－－－

－

－

The wipers are not activated.

The wipers run at low speed.

The wipers run at high speed.

Hold past ON to turn the windowwiper on and the window washerto spray.

OFF

Rotate counterclockwise to turnthe window wiper on and thewindow washer to spray.

The length of the wiperinterval is varied automaticallyaccording to the vehicle’s speed.Vary the delay by turning the INTTIME ring. If you turn it to theshortest delay, the wipers willchange to low speed operationwhen the vehicle speed exceeds 12mph (20 km/h).

Push the right lever up or down toselect a position.

MISTOFFINT IntermittentLO Low speedHI High speedWindshield Washers

The wipers run at highspeed until you release the lever.

Pull thewiper control lever toward you andhold it. The washers spray untilyou release the lever. The wipersrun at low speed, then completeone more sweep after you releasethe lever.

Rotate the switch clockwise toturn the rear window wiper ON.

1.2.3.4.5.6.

1.

2.

3.

4.

OFF

LO

HI

Rear Window Wiper and Washer

INT

MIST

Windshield Wiper

Windshield Washers

Windshield Wipers and Washers

60

－

－

－

Turn SignalOffParking and interior lightsHeadlight onHigh beamsFlash high beams

Turning theswitch to the ‘‘ ’’ position turnson the parking lights, taillights,instrument panel lights, side-markerlights, and rear license plate lights.

Turning the switch to the ‘‘ ’’position turns on the headlights. Ifyou leave the lights on with the keyremoved from the ignition switch,you will hear a reminder beeperwhen you open the driver’s door.

To turn on the highbeams, push the left lever forwarduntil it clicks. The blue high beamindicator will come on (see page ).Pull it back to return to low beams.To flash the high beams, pull thelever back lightly, then release it.The high beams will stay on as longas you hold the lever back.

Push down on theleft lever to signal a left turn and upto signal a right turn. To signal a lanechange, push lightly on the lever andhold it. The lever will return to

center when you release it orcomplete a turn.

With 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 ignitionswitch off, even if you set theparking brake.

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

1.2.3.4.5.6. 54

Canadian model onlyTurn Signal and Headlights Daytime Running Lights

Headlights On

High Beams

Turn Signal

Turn Signal and HeadlightsInstrum

entsand

Controls

61

The knob on the instrument panelcontrols the brightness of theinstrument panel. Turn the knob toadjust the brightness.

Push the red button to turn on thehazard warning lights (four-wayflashers). This causes all fouroutside turn signals and bothindicators in the instrument panel toflash. Use the hazard warning lightsif you need to park in a dangerousarea near heavy traffic, or if yourvehicle is disabled.

The rear window defogger will clearfog, frost, and thin ice from thewindow. Push the defogger button toturn it on and off. The indicator inthe button comes on 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 ignitionswitch. You have to turn it on againwhen you restart the vehicle.

Rear Window DefoggerInstrument Panel Brightness Hazard Warning Button

Instrument Panel Brightness, Hazard Warning Button, Rear Window Defogger

62

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.

Make any steering wheel adjustmentbefore you start driving.

Push the lever under the steeringcolumn all the way down.

Move the steering wheel so itpoints to your chest, not towardyour face. Make sure you can seethe instrument panel gauges andindicators.

Push the lever up to lock thesteering wheel in position.

Make sure you have securelylocked the steering wheel in placeby trying to move it up and down.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Steering Wheel Adjustment

Rear Window Defogger, Steering Wheel AdjustmentInstrum

entsand

Controls

63

Adjusting the steering wheelposition while driving maycause you to lose control of thevehicle and be seriously injuredin a crash.

Adjust the steering wheel onlywhen the vehicle is stopped.

The valet key works only in theignition and the door locks. You cankeep the glove box locked when youleave your vehicle and the valet keyat a parking facility.

You should have received a keynumber tag with your keys. You willneed this key number if you everhave to get a key replaced. Use onlyan Acura-approved key blank.

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 themimmediately with a soft cloth.

The keys do not contain batteries.Do not try to take them apart.

The master key fits all the locks onyour vehicle.

Keys and Locks

64

KEYNUMBERTAG

MASTER KEY(BLACK)

VALETKEY(GREY)

The Immobilizer System protectsyour vehicle from theft. If animproperly-coded key (or otherdevice) is used, the engine will notstart.

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 (i.e. keyfob) is near the ignition switch whenyou insert the key.

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

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

If you lose your key and you cannotstart the engine, contact your 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.

Immobilizer SystemInstrum

entsand

Controls

65

－

－

－

－

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.

If your vehicle has an automatictransmission, the shift lever must bein Park before you can remove thekey from the ignition switch.

The ignition switch has fourpositions: LOCK (0), ACCESSORY(I), ON (II), and START (III).

You can insert orremove the key only in this position.To turn the key, you must push thekey in slightly. If your vehicle has anautomatic transmission, the shiftlever must also be in park.

If the front wheels are turned, theanti-theft lock may make it difficultto turn the key. Firmly turn thesteering wheel to the left or right asyou turn the key.

You canoperate the audio system and theaccessory power sockets in thisposition.

This is the normal keyposition when driving. Several of theindicators on the instrument panelcome on as a test when you turn theignition switch from ACCESSORY(I) to ON (II).

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

Ignition Switch

LOCK (0)

ACCESSORY (I)

ON (II)

START (III)

66

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

Remove the key from theignition switch only whenparked.

To lock both doors and the hatch,press the master door lock switch oneither door, press the lock tab downon the driver’s door, or use the keyon the outside lock.

Pulling up on either master door lockswitch will unlock both doors and thehatch.

To unlock the driver’s door from theoutside, turn the key and release it.If you turn and hold it, both doorsand the hatch unlock. Both doorsand the hatch unlock when you usethe key in the passenger’s door.

Each door has a lock tab at the top ofthe door. When you push down thelock tab on the driver’s door, bothdoors and the hatch lock. The locktab on the passenger’s door locksand unlocks only that door. Pullingup on the driver’s door lock tab onlyunlocks the driver’s door.

Door Locks

Door Locks Power Door/Hatch Locks

Instruments

andC

ontrols

67

LOCK TAB MASTER DOOR AND HATCHLOCK SWITCH

To open the hatch, pull the handle,then lift up the hatch.To close the hatch, press down onthe back edge.

The hatch will not lock or unlockwhen the battery is disconnected.

See page 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

on page .45

129

Door Locks

Hatch

CarbonMonoxide Hazard

68

Pull

－

－ー

CONTINUED

Press this button to lockboth doors and the hatch. Youcannot lock the doors or the hatch ifeither door or the hatch is not fullyclosed or if the key is in the ignitionswitch.

Avoid dropping or throwing thetransmitter.Protect the transmitter fromextreme temperature.Do not immerse the transmitter inany liquid.

Press this button forabout 1 second to attract attention;the horn will sound and the exteriorlights will flash for about 30 seconds.To cancel panic mode, press anyother button on the remotetransmitter, or turn the ignitionswitch to ON (II).

Press this button onceto unlock the driver’s door. Push ittwice to unlock the passenger’s doorand the hatch.Some exterior lights will flash eachtime you press the button.

The interior lights will come onwhen you press the UNLOCK button.If you do not open either door or thehatch within 30 seconds, the lightsfade out. If you relock the doors andthe hatch with the remotetransmitter before 30 seconds haveelapsed, the light will go offimmediately;

If you do not open either door or thehatch within 30 seconds, they willautomatically relock and the securitysystem sets.

If you lose a transmitter, thereplacement needs to bereprogrammed by your dealer.

Remote Transmitter

LOCK

PANICUNLOCK

Remote Transmitter Care

Instruments

andC

ontrols

69

LED

UNLOCKBUTTON

LOCKBUTTON

PANICBUTTON

＋

If it takes several pushes on thebutton to lock or unlock the doorsand the hatch, replace the battery assoon as possible.Battery type: CR2025

To replace the battery, place a clothon the edge of the transmitter andremove the upper half by carefullyprying on the edge with a small flat-tip screwdriver.

Insert a new battery with the sidefacing up.

Snap the two halves of thetransmitter case back together.

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.

Remote Transmitter

Replacing the Transmitter Battery

70

－See pages for important safetyinformation and warnings about how toproperly position seats and seat-backs.

13 15

Make all seat adjustments beforeyou start driving.

To adjust the seat forward andbackward, pull up on the bar underthe seat cushion’s front edge. Thentry to move the seat to make sure itis locked in position.

To change the seat-back angle, pullup on the lever on the outside of theseat bottom.

Front Seat Adjustments

SeatsInstrum

entsand

Controls

71

The height of your driver’s seat isadjustable. Turn the dial on theoutside of the seat cushion to changethe height of the seat bottom.

To change the lumbar support, movethe lever on the right side of theseat-back forward or backward.Keep moving the lever forward orbackward until you find a suitableposition.

To get into the back seat, pull up onthe seat-back adjustment lever.

U.S.:Canada:

All models U.S.:Canada:

All modelsPremium and Type-S modelsonly

Premium and Type-S modelsonly

Driver’s Seat Height Adjustment Driver’s Lumbar Support Rear Seat Access

Seats

72

The back of the rear seat folds downto give you more cargo space. Eachside folds down separately. With onlyhalf the seat folded, you can stillcarry a passenger in the back seat.

To unlatch either side of the seat-back, pull up on the release tab.Move the seat belt out of the wayand fold the seat-back down.

To lock the seat-back upright, pushthe seat-back firmly against its latch.Tug on the seat-back to make sure itis latched.

Do not put any heavy items on theseat-back when it is folded.

Make sure all items in the cargo areaare secured. Loose items can flyforward and cause injury if you haveto brake hard. Seeon page .

To get out from the rear seat on thepassenger’s side, push down on therelease lever at the base of the seat-back. The seat-back will tilt forward,and the seat will slide forward.

129Carrying Cargo

Folding Rear Seat

SeatsInstrum

entsand

Controls

73

RELEASE TAB

RELEASE LEVER

Do not use the seat heaters when theengine is off or when idling for along period of time. They can drainthe battery, making your vehiclehard to start.

Both front seats are equipped withseat heaters. The ignition switchmust be in the ON (II) position touse them. Push the heater switch toturn the power on or off. Theindicators will come on and remainon while the heaters are on.

On Canada Type-S and Premiummodel with leather seats

Seat Heaters

74

SEAT HEATER SWITCHES

The cargo area cover may beremoved to give you more cargoroom.

Open the hatch.

Push up on the sides of the cargoarea cover to release the coverfrom the hooks.

Pull down on the cover to removethe mounting pins from the holesin the hatch lining.

1.

2. 3.

CONTINUED

Cargo Area CoverInstrum

entsand

Controls

75

MOUNTING PINHOOK

Reverse this procedure to install thecargo area cover.

There is a reference line on thecargo area side panel. To avoiddamaging the cargo cover, removethe cover if the cargo goes abovethat line.

Do not place items on the cargo areacover, or stack objects higher thanthe top of the back seat. They couldblock your view and be thrown aboutthe vehicle during a crash or suddenstop.

Cargo Area Cover

76

REFERENCE

－ To open/close the driver’swindow, push the window switchfirmly down or up to the seconddetent, and release it. The windowwill automatically go up or down allthe way. To stop the window, pull/push on the window switch briefly.

If the MAIN switch is OFF, thepassenger window cannot be raisedor lowered. Keep the MAIN switchoff when you have children in thevehicle so they do not injurethemselves by operating the windowunintentionally.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II)to raise or lower either window. Toopen the window, push the switchdown and hold it. Release the switchwhen you want the window to stop.Pull back on the switch and hold it toclose the window.

CONTINUED

AUTO

Power WindowsInstrum

entsand

Controls

77

MAIN SWITCH

DRIVER’S WINDOW SWITCH

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

Make sure your passengers areaway from the windows beforeclosing them.

－

Auto reverse stops sensing when thewindow is almost closed. You shouldalways check that all passengers andobjects are away from the windowbefore closing it.

If your vehicle’s battery isdisconnected or goes dead, or thedriver’s window fuse is removed, theAUTO function will be disabled. Thepower window system needs to bereset after reconnecting the batteryor installing the fuse.

Start the engine. Push down andhold the driver’s window switchuntil the window is fully open.

Pull and hold the driver’s windowswitch to close the windowcompletely, then hold the switchfor a second or two more.

If the driver’swindow senses any obstacle while itis closing automatically, it willreverse direction and then stop. Toclose the window, remove theobstacle, then use the window switchagain.

If the power windows do not operateproperly after resetting, have yourvehicle checked by your dealer.

1.

2.

Power Windows

AUTO REVERSE

78

Use the switch on the dashboard toopen and close the moonroof. Theignition switch must be in the ON(II) position. Push and hold the

switch to open the moonroof.Release the switch when themoonroof reaches the desiredposition. To close the moonroof,press and hold the switch.

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.

CONTINUED

U.S.: All modelsCanada: Premium and Type-S models

only

Moonroof Mirrors

Moonroof, MirrorsInstrum

entsand

Controls

79

TAB

Closing the moonroof onsomeone’s hands or fingers cancause serious injury.

Make sure passengers areclear of the moonroof beforeclosing it.

If you try to open the moonroof inbelow-f reezing temperatures, or whenit is covered with snow or ice, you candamage the moonroof panel or motor.

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

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

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.

The outside mirrors are heated toremove fog and frost. With theignition switch in the ON (II)position, turn on the heaters bypressing the button. The indicator inthe button comes on as a reminder.Press the button again to turn theheaters off.

1. 2.

3.

Adjusting the Power Mirrors Power Mirror Heaters

Mirrors

80

HEATED MIRROR BUTTON

SELECTOR SWITCH ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

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 ).53

Parking BrakeInstrum

entsand

Controls

81

NOTICE:PARKING BRAKE LEVER Driving the vehicle with theparking brake applied can damage therear brakes and axles.

Interior Convenience Items

82

COAT HOOK

ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET CONSOLE COMPARTMENTBEVERAGE HOLDER

ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET

GLOVE BOX

BEVERAGE HOLDERS

Be careful when you are using thebeverage holders. A spilled liquidthat is very hot can scald you or yourpassengers. Spilled liquids candamage the upholstery, carpeting,and electrical components in theinterior.

There are two accessory powersockets, one is located in the front ofthe center console. The other islocated at the rear of the console. Touse either power socket, pull up thecover.

These sockets are intended to supplypower for 12 volt DC accessoriesthat are rated 120 watts or less (10amps).

To power an accessory, the ignitionswitch must be in the ACCESSORY(I) or ON (II) position.

These sockets will not power anautomotive type cigarette lighterelement.

To open the beverage holder, pushthe left knob and slide the coverforward.

U.S.: Standard on all modelsCanada: Rear power socket optional


Beverage Holders Accessory Power Sockets

Instruments

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ontrols

83

Push

To open the console compartment,push the right knob and slide thecover forward.

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

The glove box light comes on onlywhen the instrument panel indicatorsare on.

U.S.:Canada:

All modelsPremium and Type-S modelsonly


Console Compartment Glove Box

84

Push

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.

To use a vanity mirror on the back ofthe sun visor, pull up the cover.

To use this coat hook, rotate thehook down. Close it with a firm push.


Vanity Mirror Coat Hook

Instruments

andC

ontrols

85

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.

The cargo area light comes on whenyou open the hatch.

The ceiling light has a three-positionswitch. In the OFF position, the lightdoes not come on. In the centerposition, the ceiling light comes onwhen you open either door. After thedoors are closed tightly, the lightdims slightly, then fades out in about30 seconds. In the ON position, theceiling light stays on continuously.

U.S.: All modelsCanada: Premium and Type-S models

only

Ceiling Light Spotlights Cargo Area Light

Interior Lights

86

DOOR ACTIVATED

Your vehicle has an anti-theft audiosystem that requires a code numberto enable it.

The security system helps to dis-courage vandalism and theft of yourHonda.

The heating and air conditioningsystems in your vehicle provide acomfortable driving environment inall weather conditions.

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

...............Vents, Heating, and A/C . 88............................Playing the Radio . 92

..............................Radio Reception . 96.................................Playing a Tape . 98

..................................Playing a CD . 101.......................................CD Player . 102

...................................CD Changer . 103....................Protecting Your CDs . 108

.........CD Player Error Messages . 109.....CD Changer Error Messages . 110

.................Radio Theft Protection . 112..........................Setting the Clock . 113

............................Security System . 114...............................Cruise Control . 115

FeaturesF

eatures

87

Vents, Heating, and A/C

88

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE CONTROL DIAL

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON

RECIRCULATION BUTTON AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

To use the heating and coolingsystem in automatic mode, set thesystem as follows.

Set the fan control dial to AUTO.

Set the mode control dial to AUTO.

Turn the temperature control dialto the desired temperature.

Select Fresh Air mode by pressingthe Recirculation button. Theindicator in the switch should beoff.

Turn on the A/C by pressing thebutton.

Pressing the A/C button turns theair conditioning ON and OFF. Theindicator in the button comes onwhen the A/C is ON.

When you turn the A/C off, thesystem cannot regulate the insidetemperature if you set the dial belowthe outside air temperature.With A/C on, use the temperaturecontrol dial to adjust the temperatureof the air flow to a comfortablesetting.

Air conditioning also removes mois-ture from the air as it operates. Youcan use it to defog the windowsquickly in cool or damp weather.Used in combination with the heater,it also makes the interior warm anddry.

To heat or cool the interior faster,select Recirculation mode and setthe temperature control dial to theupper or lower limit. The systemruns on full cooling or heating only.It does not regulate the interior

temperature. When the temperatureis set between the lower and upperlimits, the system regulates theinterior temperature to the set value.

Turning the fan control dial to OFFshuts the heating and cooling systemcompletely off. Keep the systemcompletely off only for short periods.To keep stale air and mustiness fromcollecting, you should have the fanrunning at all times.

You can manually set the systemcontrols for ventilation, airconditioning, heating, air flowdirection, and fan speed in variouscombinations.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

CONTINUED


Automatic Operation

Manual Operation

Air Conditioning Button

Features

89

Air conditioning places an extra loadon the engine. Watch the enginecoolant temperature gauge (see page

) when using the A/C in heavytraffic or driving up long hills. If itmoves near the red zone, turn off theair conditioning until the gaugereads normally.

This button controls the source of airgoing into the system. When theindicator in this button is on, thesystem is recirculating the interiorair (Recirculation mode). When theindicator is off, fresh air is broughtin from outside the vehicle (FreshAir mode). Push the button tochange between recirculated andfresh air.

Use Recirculation mode to heat orcool the interior more quickly, or tokeep out smoke and dust. Leavingthe system in the Recirculation modewith the A/C off can cause thewindows to fog up. Switch to FreshAir mode as soon as the interiorreaches a comfortable temperatureor the outside smoky, dusty condi-tion clears.

You can manually select the fanspeed by turning the fan speedcontrol dial. Turning this dialclockwise increases the fan speed,which increases air flow.When the dial is set to AUTO, thesystem controls the fan speedautomatically.

Use this dial to select the direction ofairflow coming out of the system.Some air will come out of the sidevents in all modes.

In AUTO mode, the system controlsthe air flow direction automaticallybetween the dashboard vents andthe floor vents.

The main air flow comes outof the dashboard vents.

The main air flow is directedto the floor vents.

Airflow is divided betweenthe vents in the dashboard and thefloor vents.

The main air flow is dividedbetween the floor vents anddefroster vents at the base of thewindshield.

58


Recirculation Button

Fan Speed

Mode Control Dial

90

The heating and cooling system hastemperature sensors next to thesteering column and in the top of thedashboard. Do not cover the sensorsor spill any liquid on them.

If there is actual frost on the win-dows, first select the Recirculationmode. If the windows are fogged,select the Fresh Air mode. Warmedair will then flow from the wind-shield and side defroster vents.

The main air flow is directedto the windshield for faster defrost-ing or defogging. To defrost or defogmore quickly, turn the temperaturecontrol dial to maximum. Select

, and set the fan speed tohigh.

When you select or ,the A/C turns on automatically tohelp dehumidify the air and defogthe windshield. When you selectanother mode, the A/C stays on. Ifyou do not want to use the A/C inthat mode, press the button to turn itoff.


Temperature Sensors

Features

91

Playing the Radio

Type-S

All models except Type-S

92

AM/FM BUTTON

SEEK/SKIP BAR PRESET BUTTONS TUNE/MODE KNOB

STEREO INDICATOR

SCAN INDICATOR

SCAN BUTTON

AUTO SELECT BUTTON

TUNE/MODE KNOB

PRESET BUTTONS

SCAN INDICATOR

STEREO INDICATOR

SCAN BUTTON

AUTO SELECT BUTTON

FM BUTTON

SEEK BUTTONS

AM BUTTON

POWER/VOLUME KNOB

POWER/VOLUME KNOB

－

－

－＋

－The ignition switch must be in theACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position.Turn the system on by pressing thePWR/VOL knob, or the AM or FMbutton. Adjust the volume by turningthe knob.

The band and frequency that theradio was last tuned to is displayed.To change bands, press the AM orFM button. On the FM band, ST willbe displayed if the station is broad-casting in stereo. Stereoreproduction on AM is not available.

You can use these five methods tofind radio stations on a selectedband: thepreset buttons, and .

Use the TUNE knob totune the radio to a desired frequency.Turn the knob right to tune to ahigher frequency, or left to tune to alower frequency.

The SEEK functionsearches up and down from thecurrent frequency to find a stationwith a strong signal. To activate it,press the or side of thebar or ( )/( ) buttons, thenrelease it.

The SCAN functionsamples all the stations with strongsignals on the selected band. Toactivate it, press the SCAN button,then release it. You will see SCAN inthe display. The system will scan fora station with a strong signal. Whenit finds one, it will stop and play thatstation for about 5 seconds. If you donothing, the system will then scanfor the next strong station and play itfor 5 seconds. When it plays a stationthat you want to listen to, press theSCAN button again.

CONTINUED

Playing the Radio

To Play the Radio

To Select a Station

TUNE, SEEK, SCAN,AUTO SELECT

TUNE

SEEK

SCAN

Features

93

－－Each preset button canstore one frequency on AM, and twofrequencies on FM.

Select the desired band, AM orFM. FM1 and FM2 let you storetwo frequencies with each presetbutton.Use the TUNE, SEEK, or SCANfunction to tune the radio to adesired station.Pick a preset button, and hold ituntil you hear a beep.Repeat steps 1 through 3 to store atotal of six stations on AM andtwelve stations on FM.

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

If you aretraveling far from home and can nolonger receive the stations youpreset, you can use the Auto Selectfeature to find stations in the localarea.

Press the A. SEL button. ‘‘A.SEL’’will flash in the display, and thesystem will go into scan mode forseveral seconds. It stores thefrequencies of six AM stations andtwelve FM stations in the presetbuttons.

You will see a ‘‘0’’ displayed afterpressing a preset button if AutoSelect cannot find a strong stationfor every preset button.

If you do not like the stations AutoSelect has stored, you can storeother frequencies on the presetbuttons. Use the TUNE, SEEK, orSCAN function to find stations, thenstore them in the preset buttons asdescribed previously.

press theA. SEL button. This restores thepresets you originally set.

1.

2.

3.

4.

To turn off Auto Select,

Playing the Radio

Preset AUTO SELECT

94

－

－Press the MODE (TUNE) knobrepeatedly to display the Bass (BAS),Treble (TRE), Balance (BAL), andFader (FAD) setting.

Each mode is shown in the display asit changes. Turn the MODE (TUNE)knob to adjust the setting to yourliking. When the level reaches thecenter, you will see ‘‘C’’ in the display.The system will automatically returnthe display to the selected audiomode about 5 seconds after you stopadjusting a mode.

Use the TRE/BASmodes to adjust the tone to yourliking.

These twomodes adjust the strength of thesound coming from each speaker.BAL adjusts the side-to-side strength,while FAD adjusts the front-to-backstrength.

You can use the instrument panelbrightness control knob to adjust theillumination of the audio system (seepage ). The audio systemilluminates when the parking lightsare on, even if the radio is off.

62

Playing the Radio

Adjusting the Sound

Treble/Bass

Balance/Fader

Audio System Lighting Features

95

Your vehicle’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

How well your vehicle’s radioreceives stations is dependent onmany factors, such as the distancefrom the station’s transmitter,nearby large objects, andatmospheric 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.

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 Reception

Radio Frequencies Radio Reception

96

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.

Radio ReceptionF

eatures

97

Playing a Tape


Type-S

98

CASSETTE SLOT

FF BUTTONFM BUTTON

PLAY/PROG BUTTON

REW BUTTON

SKIP BAR

AM BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

REPEAT INDICATOR

DOLBY INDICATOR

PLAY BUTTON

PROG BUTTON REW BUTTON

CD BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTONTAPE BUTTON

TAPE EJECT BUTTON

FF BUTTON

SKIP BUTTONS

CD/TAPE BUTTON

AM/FM BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

REPEAT BUTTON

DOLBY INDICATOR

DOLBY BUTTON

POWER/VOLUMEKNOB

REPEATBUTTON

POWER/VOLUMEKNOB

▲

－

＊

＊

The ignition switch must be in theACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position.Make sure the open side of the tapeis facing right, then insert the tapemost of the way into the slot. Thesystem will pull the tape in the restof the way, and begin to play it.

The tape direction indicator willcome on to show you which side ofthe tape is playing. The indicatesthe side you inserted upward is nowplaying. If you want to play the otherside, press the PLAY/PROG button.When the player reaches the end ofthe tape, it will automatically reversedirection and play the other side.

Dolby noise reduction turns onwhen you insert a tape. The

indicator will come on in thedisplay. If the tape was not recordedin Dolby, turn it off by pressing theNR ( ) button. Dolby remainsoff until you press the NR ( )button again.

To remove the tape, press theEJECT button. If you want to turnthe player off, press the PWR/VOLknob or turn off the ignition. Thetape will remain in the drive. Whenyou turn the system back on, thetape will begin playing where it leftoff.

To switch to the radio or CD playerwhile a tape is playing, press theAM/FM or CD/TAPE button. Tochange back to the tape player, pressthe CD/TAPE button.

To switch to the radio or CDchanger while listening to a tape,press the AM, FM, or CD button. Tochange back to the tape player, pressthe TAPE button.

To rewind the tape,push the REW button. You will seeREW in the display. To fast forwardthe tape, push the FF button. Youwill see FF displayed. Press the FF,REW, PLAY, or PLAY/PROG buttonto take the system out of rewind orfast forward.

Dolby noise reduction manufactured underlicense from Dolby Laboratories LicensingCorporation. ‘‘DOLBY’’ and the double-D symbol

are trademarks of Dolby LaboratoriesLicensing Corporation.

CONTINUED

Optional on all models except Type-S

Type-S

Playing a Tape

To Play a Tape

To Stop Playing a Tape

Tape Search FunctionsFF/REW

Features

99

－

－－

＋

Press the RPT buttonto continuously play a song orpassage. You will see RPT displayed.The track will repeat until you pressthe RPT button again.

The SKIP and REPEATfunctions use silent periods on thetape to find the end of a song orpassage. These features may notwork if there is almost no gapbetween selections, a high noiselevel, or a silent period in the middleof a selection.

The tape player picks up dirt andoxides from the tape. Thiscontamination build up over time andcauses the sound quality to degrade.To prevent this, you should clean theplayer after every 30 hours of use.

Use 100-minute or shorter tapes.Tapes longer than that may break orjam the drive.

If the tape is loose, tighten it byturning the hub with a pencil or yourfinger. If the label is peeling off,remove it or it could cause the tapeto jam in the player. Never try toinsert a warped or damaged tape inthe player.

Store tapes in their cases to protectthem from dust and moisture. Neverplace tapes where they will beexposed to direct sunlight, high heat,or high humidity. If a tape is exposedto extreme heat or cold, let it reach amoderate temperature beforeinserting it into the player.

If you see the error indication‘‘ ’’ on the display, press theEJECT button to remove the tapefrom the unit. Make sure the tape isnot damaged. If the tape will noteject or the error indication stays onafter the tape ejects, take the vehicleto your dealer.

Never try to insert foreign objectsinto the tape player.

Press the / ( )button to find the beginning of thecurrent song or passage. Press the

/ ( ) button to find thebeginning of the next song orpassage. When the system reachesthe beginning of a song or passage, itbegins to play it.

If you do not clean the tape playerregularly, it may eventually becomeimpossible to remove thecontamination with a normalcleaning kit. Your dealer has acleaning kit available.

Type-S only

REPEAT

Caring for the Tape and PlayerSKIP

Playing a Tape

100

NOTE:

Playing a CD


Type-S

Features

101

CD/TAPE BUTTON

AM/FM BUTTON CD SLOT

REPEAT INDICATOR

EJECTBUTTON

RANDOM INDICATOR

SEEK/SKIP BAR

LOAD BUTTON

CD SLOT

CD EJECT BUTTON

SKIP BUTTONS

REPEAT BUTTON

REPEAT INDICATORRANDOM INDICATOR

CD BUTTONFM BUTTON

AM BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

RANDOM BUTTON

RANDOM BUTTON

POWER/VOLUME KNOB

POWER/VOLUMEKNOB

＋

－

＋－

－

－

With the ignition in theACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position,insert a CD into the CD slot. Thedrive will pull the CD in the rest ofthe way and begin to play it. Youoperate the CD player with the samecontrols used for the radio. Thenumber of the track playing is shownin the display. The system willcontinuously play a CD until youchange modes.

Each time you press and release/ ( ) , the player skips

forward to the beginning of the nexttrack. Press and release / ( )to skip backward to the beginning ofthe previous track. To move rapidlywithin a track, press and hold the

/ ( ) or / ( ) . You willsee CUE or REW in the display.

To continuously replaya track, press and release the RPTbutton. You will see RPT in thedisplay. Press the RPT button againto turn it off.

Pressing either of the SKIP buttonsalso turns off the repeat feature.

This feature plays thetracks in random order. To activateRandom Play, press and release theRDM button. You will see RDM inthe display. This continues until youpress the RDM button again.

Press the eject button ( ) toremove the CD. If you eject the CD,but do not remove it from the slot,the system will automatically reloadthe CD after 15 seconds and put it inpause mode. To begin playing, pressthe CD button.

If you turn the system off while a CDis playing, either with the PWR/VOLknob or by turning off the ignition,the CD will stay in the drive. Whenyou turn the system back on, the CDwill begin playing where it left off.

Press the AM/FM button to switchto the radio while a CD is playing.Press the CD button to play the CD.

Type-S only

CD Player

To Change Tracks (SKIP)

REPEAT

RANDOM

To Stop Playing a CD

Playing a CD

102

To load multiple CDs in oneoperation:

Press and hold the Load buttonuntil you see ‘‘LOAd’’ in thedisplay, then release the button.

On the upper left side of thedisplay, the CD number for anempty position will begin blinkingand the green CD Loadedindicator will come on.

Insert the CD into the CD slot.Insert it only about halfway; thedrive will pull it in the rest of theway. You will see ‘‘BUSY’’ in thedisplay. The CD Loaded indicatorturns red and blinks as the CD isloaded.

When LOAd appears again in thedisplay, insert the next CD into theCD slot.

Repeat this until all six positionsare loaded. The system will thenbegin playing the last CD loaded.

If you are not loading CDs into all sixpositions, press the Load buttonagain after the last CD has loaded.The system will begin playing thelast CD loaded.

If you stop loading CDs before all sixpositions are filled, and you do notpress the Load button, the systemwill wait for 10 seconds, then stopthe load operation and begin playingthe last CD loaded.

To load CDs or operate the CDchanger, the ignition switch must bein the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II)position.

Your vehicle’s audio system has anin-dash CD changer that holds up tosix CDs, providing several hours ofcontinuous entertainment. Youoperate this CD changer with thesame controls used for the radio andtape player.

Load and play only standard roundCDs. Odd-shaped CDs may jam inthe drive or cause other problems.You cannot load and play 3-inch (8cm) CDs in this system.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

CONTINUED

Type-SOperating the CD Changer Loading CDs in the Changer

CD ChangerF

eatures

103

Avoid using discs with adhesive labels.The label can curl up and cause thedisc to jam in the unit.

－

To load a single CD:

Press and release the Load button.

When the CD number for anempty position starts to blink andthe green CD Loaded indicatorcomes on, you will see LOAd inthe display. Insert the CD into theCD slot. Insert it only abouthalfway, the drive will pull it in therest of the way.

The system will load the CD, andbegin playing it.

If you press the Load button while aCD is playing, the system will stopplaying that CD and start the loadingsequence. It will then play the CDjust loaded.

You can also load a CD into an emptyposition while a CD is playing bypressing the appropriate presetbutton. Select an empty position (theCD Loaded indicator is off), andpress the preset button for thatposition (1 to 6). The system willstop playing the current CD and startthe loading sequence. It will thenplay the CD just loaded.

Select the CD changer by pressingthe CD button. You will see ‘‘Cd’’ inthe display. The system will beginplaying the last selected CD in theCD changer. You will see the CD andtrack numbers displayed.

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

To select a different CD, press theappropriate Preset button (1 6). Ifyou select an empty position in theCD changer, the system will go intothe loading sequence (see page ).

You can use the SKIP buttons whilea CD is playing to select passagesand change tracks.

1.

2.

3.

103

Operation

CD Changer

104

○○

○

○

－

－

＋－

＋

－

To move rapidly within a track, pressand hold the appropriate SKIPbutton. You will hear a beep and thesystem will continue to move. Pressthe button to move forward, orthe button to move backward.Release the button when the systemreaches the point you want.

Each time you press the buttonand release it, the system skipsforward to the beginning of the nexttrack. Press and release thebutton to skip backward to thebeginning of the current track. Pressand release it again to skip to thebeginning of the previous track.

To activate the Repeatfeature, press and release the RPTbutton. You will see RPT in thedisplay as a reminder. The systemcontinuously replays the currenttrack. Press the RPT button again toturn it off. Pressing either of theSKIP buttons also turns off therepeat feature.

This feature,when activated, plays the trackswithin a CD in random order, ratherthan in the order they are recordedon the CD. To activate Random Play,press the RDM button. You will seeRDM in the display. The system willthen select and play tracks randomly.This continues until you deactivateRandom Play by pressing the RDMbutton again, or you select adifferent CD with a preset button.

To take the system out of CD mode,press the AM or FM button, or inserta tape in the player. If a tape isalready in the tape player, press theTAPE button. When you return toCD mode by pressing the CD button,play will continue at the same pointthat it left off.

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

CONTINUED

REPEAT

RANDOM PLAY

CD ChangerF

eatures

105

To remove the CD that is currentlyplaying, press the eject button. Youwill see ‘‘EJEC’’ in the display. Whenyou remove the CD from the slot,the system automatically begins theLoad sequence so you can loadanother CD in that position. If you donot load another CD, after 10seconds the system begins playingthe next CD in the changer. If thechanger is empty, the system selectsthe previous mode (AM, FM, orTape).

If you do not remove the CD fromthe slot, the system will reload theCD after 15 seconds and put the CDchanger in pause mode. To beginplaying the CD, press the CD button.

To remove a different CD from thechanger, first select it with theappropriate preset button. When thatCD begins playing, press the ejectbutton.

If you press the Eject button whilelistening to the radio or tape, or withthe audio system turned off, the CDthat was last selected is ejected.After that CD is ejected, pressing theEject button again will eject the nextCD in the numerical order. By doingthis six times, you can remove all theCDs from the changer.

In any mode, if you press the ejectbutton and hold it until you hear abeep, the system will eject all of theCDs in the changer.

You can also eject CDs when theignition switch is off. The CD thatwas last selected is ejected first. Youcan eject up to six CDs, one at a time.

Removing CDs from the Changer

CD Changer

106

－＋

To select the CD changer, press theCD button. The CD and tracknumbers will be displayed. To selecta different CD, use the preset 5(DISC ) or preset 6 (DISC )button. If you select an empty slot inthe magazine, the changer will, afterfinding that slot empty, try to loadthe CD in the next slot.

Load the desired CDs in themagazine, and load the magazine inthe changer according to theinstructions that came with the unit.

A CD changer is available for yourvehicle. It holds up to six CDs. Youoperate the CD changer with thesame controls used for the in-dashCD player.

Optional on all models except Type-S

Operating the Optional CDChanger

CD ChangerF

eatures

107

When using CD-R discs, use onlyhigh quality CDs labeled for audiouse.

When recording a CD-R, therecording must be closed for it tobe used by the CD player orchanger.

CD-RW discs will not work in thisunit.

Play only standard round CDs.Odd-shaped CDs may jam in thedrive or cause other problems.

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 CD, use a clean soft cloth.Wipe across the CD 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 CD, 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.

Handle a CD by its edges; nevertouch either surface. Do not placestabilizer rings or labels on the CD.These, along with contaminationfrom fingerprints, liquids, and felt-tippens, can cause the CD to not playproperly, or possibly jam in the drive.

Handle your CDs properly toprevent damage and skipping.

Protecting Your CDs

General Information Protecting CDs

108

Message CauseIf you see an error message in thedisplay while playing a CD, find thecause in the chart to the right. If youcannot clear the error message, takeyour vehicle to your dealer.

Solution

FOCUS error.

Mechanical error.

High temperature.

Press the EJECT button and pull out the CD.Check if it is inserted correctly in the CD player.Make sure the CD is not scratched or damaged.Press the EJECT button and pull out the CD.Check the CD for damage or deformation.If the CD cannot be pulled out or the errormessage does not disappear after the CD isejected, consult your dealer.Will disappear when the temperature returns tonormal.


CD Player Error MessagesF

eatures

109


Solution

FOCUS error.

No CD in the CDmagazine.

Mechanical error.

High temperature.

No CD magazine in theCD changer.

Press the magazine eject button and pull it out,check for an error message, and insert themagazine again. If the message does notdisappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,consult your dealer.Insert CD.

Press the magazine eject button and pull it out,check for an error message, and insert themagazine again. If the message does notdisappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,consult your dealer.Will disappear when the temperature returns tonormal.Insert CD magazine.


CD Changer Error Messages

110


Solution

Disc changermalfunction.High temperature.

Disc changermalfunction.

Consult your dealer.

Will disappear when the temperature returns tonormal.Consult your dealer.

Type-S

CD Changer Error MessagesF

eatures

111

Your vehicle’s audio system willdisable itself if it is disconnectedfrom electrical power for any reason.To make it work again, you mustenter a specific five-digit code in thepreset buttons. Because there arehundreds of number combinationspossible from five-digits, making thesystem work without knowing theexact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received a card thatlists your audio system’s codenumber and serial number. It is bestto store this card in a safe place athome. In addition, you should writethe audio system’s serial number inthis Owner’s Manual. If you lose thecard, you must obtain the codenumber from your dealer. To do this,you will need the system’s serialnumber.

If your vehicle’s battery is discon-nected or goes dead, or the radiofuse is removed, the audio systemwill disable itself. If this happens,you will see ‘‘ ’’ in the frequencydisplay the next time you turn on thesystem. Use the preset buttons toenter the five-digit code. The code islocated on the radio code cardincluded in your Owner’s Manual kit.When it is entered correctly, theradio will start playing.

If you make a mistake entering thecode, do not start over; complete thefive-digit sequence, then enter thecorrect code. You have ten tries toenter the correct code. If you areunsuccessful in ten attempts, youmust then leave the system on for 1hour before trying again.

If the code card is lost, your dealercan access your code with yourradio’s serial number. To access theserial number, turn the radio on. It

must display ‘‘COdE’’, then turn theradio off. Push the preset 1, preset 6,and power buttons at the same time,then quickly release.

You will have to store your favoritestations in the preset buttons afterthe system begins working. Youroriginal settings were lost when thepower was disconnected.

Only on U.S. modelTheft Protection

Radio Theft Protection

112

If your vehicle’s battery isdisconnected or goes dead, you willneed to set the clock.

Press and hold the CLOCK button.Change the hour by pressing the Hbutton until the numbers advance tothe desired time. Change the minuteby press the M button until thenumbers advance to the desired time.

When you are finished, release theCLOCK button.

You can quickly set the time to thenearest hour. If the displayed time isbefore the half hour, pressing andholding the CLOCK button, thenpressing the R (RESET) button setsthe clock back to the previous hour.If the displayed time is after the half

hour, the clock sets forward to thebeginning of the next hour.

1:06 will reset to 1:001:52 will reset to 2:00

For example :

Setting the Clock

All models except Type-S Type-S

Features

113

CLOCK BUTTON

RESET BUTTON

RESETBUTTON

CLOCK BUTTONHOUR BUTTON

MINUTE BUTTONMINUTE BUTTON

HOUR BUTTON

The security system helps to protectyour vehicle and valuables from theft.The horn sounds and a combinationof headlights, parking lights, sidemarker lights, and taillights flash ifsomeone attempts to break into yourvehicle. This alarm continues for 2minutes, then the alarm stops. Toreset an alarming system before the2 minutes have elapsed, unlockeither door with the key or theremote transmitter.

The security system setsautomatically, 15 seconds after youlock the doors, hood, and hatch. Thesecurity system indicator startsblinking immediately to show youthe system is setting itself.

Once the security system is set,opening either door (without usingthe key or the remote transmitter),or the hood, will cause it to alarm. Italso alarms if the radio is removedfrom the dashboard or the wiring iscut.

The security system will not set ifthe hood, hatch, or either door is notfully closed. If the system will not set,check the Door-open Indicator onthe instrument panel (see page ),to see if the doors and the hatch arefully closed. Since it is not part of themonitor display, manually check thehood.

Do not attempt to alter this systemor add other devices to it.

54

Security System

114

SECURITY SYSTEM INDICATOR

Cruise 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 forcity driving, winding roads, slipperyroads, heavy rain, or bad weather.

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

Push in the Cruise Control MasterSwitch. The indicator in the switchwill come on.

1.

2.

CONTINUED

U.S.:Canada:

All modelsPremium and Type-Smodels only

Cruise Control

Using the Cruise Control

Features

115

CRUISE CONTROL MASTER SWITCHImproper use of the cruisecontrol can lead to a crash.

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

Press and release the SET/decelbutton on the steering wheel. TheCRUISE CONTROL indicator onthe instrument panel comes on toshow the system is now activated.

The cruise control may not hold theset speed when you are going up anddown hills. If your speed increasesgoing down a hill, use the brakes toslow down. This will cancel thecruise control. To resume the setspeed, press the RESUME/accelbutton. The CRUISE CONTROLindicator on the instrument panel willcome back on.

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

Press and hold the RESUME/accel button. When you reach thedesired cruising speed, release thebutton.

Push on the accelerator pedal.Accelerate to the desired cruisingspeed, and press the SET/decelbutton.

To increase your speed in verysmall amounts, tap the RESUME/accel button. Each time you dothis, your vehicle will speed upabout 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

When climbing a steep hill, theautomatic transmission maydownshift to hold the set speed.

3.

Cruise Control

Changing the Set Speed

116

RESUME/accel

CANCEL

SET/decel

Press and hold the SET/decelbutton. Release the button whenyou reach the desired speed.

To slow down in very smallamounts, tap the SET/decelbutton. Each time you do this,your vehicle will slow down about1 mph (1.6 km/h).

Tap the brake or clutch pedallightly with your foot. TheCRUISE CONTROL indicator onthe instrument panel will go out.When the vehicle slows to thedesired speed, press the SET/decel button.

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 vehiclewill return to the set cruising speed.

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

You can cancel the cruise control inany of these ways:

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

Push the CANCEL button on thesteering wheel.

Push the Cruise Control MasterButton.

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

Cruise Control

Cancelling the Cruise Control

Features

117

Pressing the Cruise Control MasterSwitch turns the system completelyoff and erases the previous cruisingspeed.

When you push the CANCEL button,or tap the brake or clutch pedal, thesystem remembers the previously-set cruising speed. To return to thatspeed, accelerate to above 25 mph(40 km/h) and then press andrelease the RESUME/accel button.The CRUISE CONTROL indicatorcomes on. The vehicle will accelerateto the same cruising speed as before.

Cruise Control

Resuming the Set Speed

118

Before you begin driving yourvehicle, you should know whatgasoline to use, and how to checkthe levels of important fluids. Youalso need to know how to properlystore luggage or packages. Theinformation in this section will helpyou. If you plan to add anyaccessories to your vehicle, pleaseread the information in this sectionfirst.

.....................General Precautions . 120.............................Break-in Period . 121

.................Fuel Recommendation . 121.........Service Station Procedures . 122

.....................................Refueling .122Opening and Closing the

........................................Hood .123....................................Oil Check .125

..............Engine Coolant Check .125...............................Fuel Economy . 126

...Accessories and Modifications . 127.............................Carrying Cargo . 129

Before DrivingB

eforeD

riving

119

Your vehicle is designed to give youoptimum handling and performanceon well-maintained roads. As part ofthis design, your vehicle has aminimum of ground clearance.

Use caution if you drive yourvehicle on very rough or ruttedroads. You could damage thesuspension and underbody bybottoming out. Going too fast overparking lot ‘‘speed bumps’’ canalso cause damage.

Curbs and steep inclines coulddamage the front and rearbumpers. Low curbs that do notaffect the average vehicle may behigh enough to hit the bumper onyour vehicle. The front or rearbumper may scrape when trying todrive onto an incline, such as asteep driveway or trailer ramps.

Type-S model

General Precautions

120

Help assure your vehicle’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 for the first200 miles (300 km).

Do not change the oil until thescheduled maintenance time.

Do not tow a trailer.

You should also follow theserecommendations with anoverhauled or exchanged engine, orwhen the brakes are replaced.

Some gasoline today is blended withoxygenates such as ethanol orMTBE. Your vehicle is designed tooperate on oxygenated gasolinecontaining up to 10 percent ethanolby volume and up to 15 percentMTBE by volume. Do not usegasoline containing methanol.

If you notice any undesirableoperating symptoms, try anotherservice station or switch to anotherbrand of gasoline.

For further important fuel-relatedinformation, please refer to your

.

Your vehicle is designed to operateon unleaded gasoline with a pumpoctane number of 86 or higher. Useof a lower octane gasoline can causea persistent, heavy metallic rappingnoise that can lead to engine damage.

Your vehicle is designed to operateon premium unleaded gasoline with apump octane of 91 or higher. Use ofa lower octane gasoline can causeoccasional metallic knocking noisesin the engine and will result indecreased engine performance. Useof a gasoline with a pump octane lessthan 86 can lead to engine damage.

Use of gasoline with these additivesmay adversely affect performance,and cause the Malfunction IndicatorLamp on your instrument panel tocome on. If this happens, contactyour dealer for service.

In addition, in order to maintain goodperformance, fuel economy, andemissions control, we stronglyrecommend, in areas where it isavailable, the use of gasoline that

does NOT contain manganese-basedfuel additives such as MMT.

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

(All models except Type-S)

(Type-S)

Break-in Period Fuel Recommendation

Quick Start Guide

Break-in Period, Fuel RecommendationB

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Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.You may hear a hissing sound aspressure inside the tank escapes.Put the attachment on the fuel fillcap into the slit on the fuel fill door.

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.

eventhough the tank is not full, there maybe a problem with your vehicle’s fuelvapor recovery system. The systemhelps keep fuel vapors from goinginto the atmosphere. Consult yourdealer.

Park with the driver’s side of thevehicle closest to the servicestation pump.

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

1.

2.

3.

4.

If the fuel nozzle keeps clicking off

Service Station Procedures

Refueling

122

FUEL FILL CAP

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.

Screw the fuel fill cap back onuntil it clicks at least three times.If you do not properly tighten thecap, the Malfunction IndicatorLamp may come on (see page

).

Push the fuel fill door closed untilit latches.

Park the vehicle, and set theparking brake. Pull the hoodrelease handle located under thelower left corner of the dashboard.The hood will pop up slightly.

Put your fingers under the frontedge of the hood just to left ofcenter. Lift up the hood latchhandle until it releases the hood.Lift up the hood.

1. 2.

5.

6.

205

CONTINUED


Opening and Closing the Hood

Before

Driving

123

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

LATCH

Pull the support rod out of its clipand insert the end into thedesignated hole in 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. Make sure itis securely latched.

If the hood latch handle moves stiffly,or if you can open the hood withoutlifting the handle, the mechanismshould be cleaned and lubricated.

3.


124

SUPPORT ROD

Wait a few minutes after turning theengine off before you check the oil.

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

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

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

on page forinformation on adding the propercoolant.

Remove the dipstick (orange loop).

Wipe the dipstick with a cleancloth or paper towel.

Insert it all the way back in its tube.

4.

1.

2.

3.

162

165

CONTINUED

Oil Check Engine Coolant Check

Adding Oil

AddingEngine Coolant

Service Station ProceduresB

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125

UPPER MARK

RESERVE TANK

MAX

MIN

LOWER MARK

Always drive in the highest gearpossible.

Try to maintain a constant speed.Every time you slow down andspeed up, your vehicle uses extrafuel. Use the cruise control whenappropriate.

Combine several short trips intoone.

The air conditioning puts an extraload on the engine which makes ituse more fuel. Use the fresh-airventilation when possible.

an underinflated tirecauses more ‘‘rolling resistance,’’which uses fuel.

The build-up of snow or mud onyour vehicle’s underside addsweight and rolling resistance.Frequent cleaning helps your fuelmileage and reduces the chance ofcorrosion.

Drive moderately. Rapidacceleration, abrupt cornering,and hard braking use more fuel.

Always maintain your vehicleaccording to the maintenanceschedule. See

on page.

Refer toon page for information

about checking other items on yourvehicle.

156

156

For example,

Service Station Procedures, Fuel Economy

Improving Fuel Economy

Owner’sMaintenance Checks

Owner’s MaintenanceChecks

126

Your dealer has Acura accessoriesthat allow you to personalize yourvehicle. These accessories havebeen designed and approved for yourvehicle, and are covered by warranty.

Although aftermarket accessoriesmay fit on your vehicle, they may notmeet factory specifications, andcould adversely affect your vehicle’shandling and stability.

Modifying your vehicle, or installingsome non-Acura accessories, canmake it unsafe. Before you make anymodifications or add any accessories,be sure to read the followinginformation.

When properly installed, cellularphones, alarms, two-way radios, andlow-powered audio systems shouldnot interfere with your vehicle’scomputer controlled systems, suchas your airbags and anti-lock brakes.

Before installing any accessory:Make sure the accessory does notobscure any lights, or interferewith proper vehicle operation orperformance.

Be sure electronic accessories donot overload electrical circuits(see page ) or interfere withproper operation.

Have the installer contact yourdealer for assistance beforeinstalling any electronic accessory.

208Accessories

Accessories and ModificationsB

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

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

Some examples are:Lowering your vehicle with anaftermarket suspension kit thatsignificantly reduces groundclearance can allow theundercarriage to hit speed bumpsor other raised objects, whichcould cause the airbags to deploy.

Raising your vehicle with anaftermarket suspension kit canaffect the handling and stability.

Aftermarket wheels, because theyare a universal design, can causeexcessive stress on suspensioncomponents.

Larger or smaller wheels and tirescan interfere with the operation ofyour vehicle’s anti-lock brakes andother systems.

Removing parts from your vehicle,or replacing components withaftermarket components couldseriously affect your vehicle’shandling, stability, and reliability. Modifying your steering wheel or

any other part of your vehicle’ssafety features can make thesystems ineffective.

If you plan to modify your vehicle,consult your dealer.

Modifying Your Vehicle

Accessories and Modifications

128

Your vehicle has several convenientstorage areas:

Glove boxDoor and seat-back pocketsCargo area

However, carrying too much cargo,or improperly storing it, can affectyour vehicle’s handling, stability,stopping distance, and tires, andmake it unsafe. Before carrying anytype of cargo, be sure to read thefollowing pages.

Roof-rack (if installed)

Carrying CargoB

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129

DOOR POCKET

CARGO AREA GLOVE BOXSEAT-BACK POCKET

－ ×－ ×

The maximum load for your vehicleis 700 lbs (325 kg). This figureincludes the total weight of alloccupants, cargo, accessories, andthe tongue weight if you are towing atrailer.

Locate the statement, ‘‘thecombined weight of occupants andcargo should never exceed 700 lbs

(325 kg)’’ on your vehicle’s placard.(The placard is on the driver’sdoorjamb).

Steps for Determining Correct LoadLimit:

Determine the combined weightof the driver and passengers thatwill be riding in your vehicle.

Subtract the combined weight ofthe driver and passengers from700 lbs (325 kg).

The resulting figure equals theavailable amount of cargo andluggage load capacity. Forexample, if the maximum load is700 lbs (325 kg) and there will befour 150 lb (70 kg) passengers inyour vehicle, the amount ofavailable cargo and luggage loadcapacity is 100 lbs (45 kg).[700 600 (4 150) = 100 lbs]/[325 280 (4 70) = 45 kg]

Determine the combined weightof luggage and cargo being loaded

on the vehicle. The weight maynot safely exceed the availablecargo and luggage load capacity instep 4.

If your vehicle will be towing atrailer, load from your trailer willbe transferred to your vehicle.Consult this manual to determinehow this reduces the availablecargo and luggage load capacity ofyour vehicle. [See page .]

In addition, the total weight of thevehicle, all passengers,accessories, cargo, and trailertongue load must not exceed theGross Vehicle Weight Rating(GVWR) or the Gross AxleWeight Rating (GAWR). Both areon a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

4.

6.

5.1.

2.

3.

148

Load Limit

Carrying Cargo

130

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.

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 pedals or seat operation.

Distribute cargo evenly on thefloor of the cargo area, placing theheaviest items on the bottom andas far forward as possible.

If you fold down the back seat, tiedown items that could be thrownabout the vehicle during a crash orsudden stop.

Do not place items on the cargoarea cover, or stack objects higherthan the top of the back seat. 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

, follow the instructionson page .

Keep the glove box closed whiledriving. If it is open, a passengercould injure their knees during acrash or sudden stop.

If you can carry any items on aroof rack, be sure the total weightof the rack and the items does notexceed the maximum allowableweight. Please contact your dealerfor further information.

45

Carrying Items in the PassengerCompartment

carbon monoxidepoisoning

Carrying Cargo in the Cargo Areaor on a Roof Rack

Carrying CargoB

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132

This section gives you tips onstarting the engine under variousconditions, and how to operate themanual and automatic transmissions.It also includes importantinformation on parking your vehicle,the braking system, and facts youneed if you are planning to tow atrailer.

........................Preparing to Drive . 134.......................Starting the Engine . 135

.................Manual Transmissions . 136..............Automatic Transmission . 139

...........................................Parking . 145.............................Braking System . 146

...............Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) . 147...........................Towing a Trailer . 148

DrivingD

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133

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

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

Check the seat adjustment (seepage ).

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

Check the steering wheeladjustment (see page ).

Make sure the doors and thehatch are securely closed andlocked.

When you start the engine, checkthe gauges and indicators in theinstrument panel (see page ).

Check that the hood is fully closed.

Fasten your seat belt. Check thatyour passengers have fastenedtheir seat belts (see page ).

Check that the hatch is fullyclosed.

Check that any items you may becarrying are stored properly orfastened down securely.

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

1.

2.

3.9.

8.

7.

6.

5.

4. 10.

11.71

79

63

15

51

Preparing to Drive

134

Apply the parking brake.

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

Push the clutch pedal down all theway.

Make sure the shift lever is inPark. Press on the brake pedal.

Without touching the acceleratorpedal, turn the ignition key to theSTART (III) position. Do not holdthe key in START for more than15 seconds at a time. If the enginedoes not start right away, pausefor at least 10 seconds beforetrying again.

If the engine does not start within15 seconds, or starts but stallsright away, repeat step 4 with theaccelerator pedal pressed halfwaydown. If the engine starts, releasepressure on the accelerator pedalso the engine does not race.

If the engine still does not start,press the accelerator pedal all theway down and hold it there whilestarting in order to clear flooding.If the engine still does not start,return to step 5.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Manual Transmission:

Automatic Transmission:

65

Starting the EngineD

riving

135

Immobilizer System

The immobilizer system protects yourvehicle f rom thef t. If an improperly-coded key (or other device) is used, theengine’s f uel system is disabled. See

on page .

The engine is harder to start in coldweather. Also, the thinner air f ound ataltitudes above 8,000 f eet (2,400meters) adds to this problem.

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 vehicle moving.Push down the clutch pedal, andpause for a few seconds beforeshifting into Reverse, or shift intoone of the forward gears for amoment. This stops the gears sothey 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 engine speed will notgo into the tachometer’s red zone inthe lower gear.

Manual Transmissions

136

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.

Drive in the highest gear that letsthe engine run and acceleratesmoothly. This will give you the bestfuel economy and effective emis-sions control. The following shiftpoints are recommended:

If 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.

Shift up

1st to 2nd2nd to 3rd3rd to 4th4th to 5th

Normal acceleration

14 mph (23 km/h)25 mph (40 km/h)40 mph (64 km/h)49 mph (79 km/h)

Shift up

1st to 2nd2nd to 3rd3rd to 4th4th to 5th5th to 6th

Normal acceleration

13 mph (21 km/h)23 mph (37 km/h)37 mph (59 km/h)45 mph (73 km/h)50 mph (80 km/h)

5-speed

6-speed

Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter

Manual TransmissionsD

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137

With the clutch pedal pressed,move the shift lever to the first/second gear side of the Neutralgate, then shift to Reverse.

If you are still unable to shift toReverse, apply the parking brake,and turn the ignition key toACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0).

Press the clutch pedal, and shift toReverse.

With the clutch pedal still pressed,start the engine.

The 6-speed manual transmissionhas an electric lockout so you cannotaccidentally shift from Fifth toReverse instead of Sixth while thevehicle is moving. If you cannot shiftto Reverse when the vehicle isstopped:

If you need to use this procedure toshift to Reverse, your vehicle may bedeveloping a problem. Have thevehicle checked by your dealer.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Reverse Lockout

Manual Transmissions

138

These indicators on the instrumentpanel show which position the shiftlever is in.

To shift from any position, move theshift lever. You cannot shift out ofPark when the ignition switch is inLOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I)position.

The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for afew seconds when you turn theignition switch to ON (II). If itflashes at any time (in any shiftposition), it indicates a possibleproblem in the transmission. Avoidrapid acceleration, and have thetransmission checked by a dealer assoon as possible. CONTINUED

To shift from:P to R

R to NN to DD to DD to DD to NN to RR to P

Do this:Press the brake pedal, thenmove the shift lever.

Move the lever.3

3

Shift Lever Position Indicators Shifting

Automatic TransmissionD

riving

139

SHIFT LEVER

－－－

－

－

This position mechani-cally locks the transmission. UsePark whenever you are turning off orstarting the engine. To shift out ofPark, you must press on the brakepedal and have your foot off theaccelerator pedal.

If you have done all of the above andstill cannot move the lever out ofPark, see onpage .

To avoid transmission damage, cometo a complete stop before shiftinginto Park. The shift lever must be inPark before you can remove the keyfrom the ignition switch.

Press the brakepedal, and move the shift lever fromPark to Reverse. To shift fromReverse to Neutral, come to acomplete stop, and then shift.

Your vehicle has a reverse lockout soyou cannot accidentally shift toReverse when the vehicle speedexceeds 5 mph (8 km/h).

Use Neutral if youneed to restart a stalled engine, or ifit is necessary to stop briefly withthe engine idling. Shift to the Parkposition if you need to leave yourvehicle for any reason. Press on thebrake pedal when you are movingthe shift lever from Neutral toanother gear.

Use this position foryour normal driving. Thetransmission automatically selects asuitable gear for acceleration.

This position is simi-lar to D, except only the first threegears are selected. Use D whentowing a trailer in hilly terrain, or toprovide engine braking when goingdown a steep hill. D can also keepthe transmission from cycling third,fourth and fifth gears in stop-and-godriving.

If you cannot shift to Reverse whenthe vehicle is stopped, press thebrake pedal and slowly shift toNeutral, and then to Reverse.

If there is a problem in the reverselockout system, or your vehicle’sbattery is disconnected or goes dead,you cannot shift to Reverse. (Referto on page ).

144

144

3

3

Automatic Transmission

Park (P)

Shift Lock Release

Reverse (R) Neutral (N)

Drive (D)

Drive (D )

Shift Lock Release

3

140

－

＋

－

Withthe shift lever in ‘‘D’’ position, youcan select the Sequential SportShiftMode to shift gears; much like amanual transmission, but without aclutch pedal.

To enter the Sequential SportShiftMode, move the shift lever further tothe driver’s side. To return to ‘‘D’’,move the shift lever to thepassenger’s side.

When you move the shift lever from‘‘D’’ to the Sequential SportShiftMode, the display shows theselected gear.

In Sequential SportShift mode, eachtime you push forward on the shiftlever, the transmission will shift to ahigher gear. Pull back on the lever todownshift. The number of the gearselected is displayed on theinstrument panel (see page ).

When you accelerate away from astop, the transmission will be in firstgear. The transmission will notautomatically upshift. Watch thetachometer and upshift manuallybefore the engine reaches redline.

The transmission remains in theselected gear (5, 4, 3, 2, or 1). Thereis no automatic downshift when youpush the accelerator pedal to thefloor.

139

CONTINUED


Sequential SportShift Mode

Driving

141

Up shift

Down shift

→→

→ －－→ －－ →

→

→

→

The transmission may automaticallydownshift from the higher gear tothe lower gear under the followingconditions:

The vehicle speeds drops below5 4: 33 mph (52 km/h)4 3: 20 mph (32 km/h)

If you drive uphill between5 4: 45 33 mph(72 52 km/h)4 3: 33 20 mph(52 32 km/h)

If you press the brake pedal as youdrive downhill.

Downshifting gives you more powerwhen climbing or provides enginebraking when going down a steep hill.

The transmission will also shiftautomatically as the vehicle comes toa complete stop. It will downshift tofirst gear when the vehicle speed isunder 6 mph (10 km/h).

If you try to manually downshift at aspeed that would cause the engine toexceed the redline in a lower gear,the transmission will not downshift.The gear indicator will flash thenumber of the lower gear severaltimes, then return to the higher gear.

If the vehicle speed slows to belowthe redline of the selected lower gearposition while the indicator isflashing, the transmission willdownshift and the display will showthe selected lower gear.

The table shows the speed rangesfor upshifting and downshifting.

To shift from

1 2

2 3

3 4

4 5

Speed range

over 0 mph(0 km/h)

over 6 mph(10 km/h)

over 20 mph(32 km/h)

over 33 mph(52 km/h)


142

→

→

→

→

To shift from

2 1

3 2

4 3

5 4

Speed range

under 31 mph(50 km/h)




When you are in SequentialSportshift mode, and the vehicle isstopped, push forward on the shiftlever to shift to second gear. You willsee ‘‘2’’ in the display. Starting out insecond gear will help to reducewheelspin in deep snow or on aslippery surface.

If you exceed the maximum speedfor the gear you are in, the enginespeed will enter into thetachometer’s red zone. If thisoccurs, you may feel the enginecut in and out. This is caused by alimiter in the engine’s computercontrols. The engine will runnormally when you reduce therpm below the red zone.


Starting in Second Gear Engine Speed Limiter

Driving

143

Do this if pushing on the brake pedaldoes not shift the transmission out ofPark:

Set the Parking brake.

Make sure the ignition switch is inthe LOCK (0) position.

Put a cloth on the edge of the ShiftLock Release slot cover next tothe shift lever. Using a small flat-tipped screwdriver or a metalfingernail file, carefully pry on theedge of the cover.

Insert the key in the Shift LockRelease slot.

Push down on the key while youmove the shift lever out of Park toNeutral.

Remove the key from the ShiftLock Release slot. Press the brakepedal and restart the engine.

If you need to use the Shift LockRelease, it means your vehicle isdeveloping a problem. Have itchecked by your dealer.

5.

4.

3.

2.

1.

6.


Shift Lock Release

144

SHIFT LOCKRELEASE SLOT

Make sure the moonroof and thewindows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc.in the cargo area, or take themwith you.

Lock the doors.

Never park over dry leaves, tallgrass, or other flammablematerials. The hot three waycatalytic converter could causethese materials to catch on fire.

Always use the parking brake whenyou park your vehicle. Make surethe parking brake is set firmly oryour vehicle may roll if it is parkedon an incline.

If your vehicle has an automatictransmission, set the parking brakebefore you put the transmission inPark. This keeps the vehicle frommoving and putting pressure on theparking mechanism in thetransmission.

If the vehicle is facing uphill, turnthe front wheels away from thecurb. If you have a manualtransmission, put it in first gear.

If the vehicle is facing downhill,turn the front wheels toward thecurb. If you have a manualtransmission, put it in reverse gear.

Make sure the parking brake isfully released before driving away.Driving with the parking brakepartially set can overheat ordamage the rear brakes.

Parking Tips

ParkingD

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145

Check the brakes after drivingthrough deep water. Apply thebrakes moderately to see if they feelnormal. If not, apply them gently andfrequently until they do. Be extracautious in your driving.

The 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.

If the brake pads need replacing, youwill hear a distinctive, metallicscreeching sound when you applythe brake pedal. If you do not havethe brake pads replaced, they willscreech all the time. It is normal forthe brakes to occasionally squeal orsqueak when you apply them.

Your vehicle is equipped with discbrakes at all four wheels. A powerassist helps reduce the effort neededon the brake pedal. The ABS helpsyou retain steering control whenbraking very hard.

Resting your foot on the pedal keepsthe brakes applied lightly, builds upheat, and reduces their effectiveness.It also 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 taking your foot off theaccelerator and downshifting to alower gear.

Braking System

Braking System Design

Brake Wear Indicators

146

The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)helps prevent the brakes fromlocking up and helps you retainsteering control by pumping thebrakes rapidly, much faster than aperson can do it.

Let the ABS work for you by alwayskeeping firm, steady pressure on thebrake pedal as you steer away fromthe hazard. This is sometimesreferred to as ‘‘stomp and steer.’’

You will feel a pulsation in the brakepedal when the ABS activates, andmay hear some noise. This is normal:it is the ABS rapidly pumping thebrakes. On dry pavement, you willneed to press on the brake pedalvery hard before the ABS activates.However, you may feel the ABSactivate immediately if you are tryingto stop on snow or ice.

If the ABS indicator comes on, theanti-lock function of the brakingsystem has shut down. The brakesstill work like a conventional system,but without anti-lock. You shouldhave the dealer inspect your vehicleas soon as possible.

If the ABS indicator comes on whiledriving, test the brakes as shown onpage .

it only helps with steeringcontrol during braking.

such as trying to take acorner too fast or making a suddenlane change.

Always steer moderatelywhen you are braking hard. Severeor sharp steering wheel movementcan still cause your vehicle to veerinto oncoming traffic or off the road.

on loose oruneven surfaces, such as gravel orsnow, than a vehicle without anti-lock.

206

You should never pump the brake pedal;

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

ABS Indicator Important Safety RemindersABS does not reduce the time ordistance it takes to stop thevehicle;

ABS will not prevent a skid thatresults from changing directionabruptly,

ABS cannot prevent the loss ofstability.

A vehicle with ABS may require alonger distance to stop

Driving

147

ABS INDICATOR

Your vehicle has been designed toprimarily carry passengers and theircargo. You can also use it to tow atrailer if you carefully observe theload limits, use the proper equipment,and follow the guidelines in thissection.

Themaximum allowable weight of thetrailer and everthing in or on itmust not exceed 1,000 lbs (450 kg).Towing a load that is too heavycan seriously affect your vehicle’shandling and performance. It canalso damage the engine anddrivetrain.

The weight thatthe tongue of a fully-loaded trailerputs on the hitch should beapproximately 10 percent of thetotal trailer weight. Too muchtongue load reduces front-tiretraction and steering control. Toolittle tongue load can make thetrailer unstable and cause it tosway.

Load Limits

Total Trailer Weight: Tongue Load:

Towing a Trailer

148

Exceeding any load limit orimproperly loading your vehicleand trailer can cause a crash inwhich you can be seriously hurtor killed.

Check the loading of yourvehicle and trailer carefullybefore starting to drive.

CONTINUED

Towing can require a variety ofequipment, depending on the size ofyour trailer, how it will be used, howmuch load you are towing, andwhere you tow.

Discuss your needs with your trailersales or rental agency, and follow theguidelines in the rest of this section.Also make sure that all equipment isproperly installed and that it meetsfederal, state, province, and localregulations.

Any hitch used on your vehicle mustbe properly bolted to the underbody.

The best way to confirm that vehicleand trailer weights are within limitsis to have them checked at a publicscale.

Using a suitable scale or a specialtongue load gauge, check the tongueload the first time you set up atowing combination (a fully-loadedvehicle and trailer), then recheck thetongue load whenever the conditionschange.

To achieve a proper tongue load,start by loading 60 percent of theload toward the front of the trailerand 40 percent toward the rear, thenre-adjust the load as needed.

The maximumallowable weight of the vehicle, alloccupants, all cargo, and thetongue load is 3,725 lbs (1,690 kg).

The maximumallowable weight of the vehicleaxles are 1,960 lbs (890 kg) on thefront axle, and 1,830 lbs (830 kg)on the rear axle.

Towing a Trailer

Towing Equipment andAccessories

Checking Loads

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating(GVWR):

Gross Axle Weight Rating(GAWR):

Hitches

Driving

149

Your vehicle has a trailer lightingconnector located behind the rightside panel in the cargo area. Refer tothe drawing above for the wiringcolor code and purpose of each pin.

If you use a converter, you can getthe connector and pins that matewith the connector in your vehiclefrom your dealer.

Always use safety chains when youtow a trailer. Make sure the chainsare secured to the trailer and hitch,and that they cross under the tongueand can catch the trailer if itbecomes unhitched. Leave enoughslack to allow the trailer to turncorners easily, but do not let thechains drag on the ground.

If you choose electric brakes, besure they are electrically actuated.Do not attempt to tap into yourvehicle’s hydraulic system. Nomatter how successful it may seem,any attempt to attach trailer brakesto your vehicle’s hydraulic systemwill lower braking effectiveness andcreate a potential hazard.

Acura recommends that any trailerhaving a total weight of 1,000 lbs(450 kg) or more be equipped withits own electric or surge-type brakes.

Towing a Trailer

Trailer LightsSafety Chains

Trailer Brakes

150

TAILLIGHT(RED/YELLOW)

LEFT TURN SIGNAL(GREEN/RED)

RIGHT TURN SIGNAL(GREEN/YELLOW)

GROUND(BLACK)

BACK UP LIGHT(GREEN)

BRAKE LIGHT(WHITE/BLACK)

Many states and Canadian provincesrequire special outside mirrors whentowing a trailer. Even if they don’t,you should install special mirrors ifyou cannot clearly see behind you, orif the trailer creates a blind spot.

Ask your trailer sales or rentalagency if any other items arerecommended or required for yourtowing situation.

The added weight, length, andheight of a trailer will affect yourvehicle’s handling and performance,so driving with a trailer requiressome special driving skills andtechniques.

For your safety and the safety ofothers, take time to practice drivingmaneuvers before heading for theopen road, and follow the guidelinesdiscussed below.

Drive slower than normal in alldriving situations, and obey postedspeed limits for vehicles with trailers.If you have an automatictransmission, use D position whentowing a trailer on level roads.

When preparing to tow, and beforedriving away, be sure to check thefollowing:

The vehicle has been properlyserviced, and the tires, brakes,suspension, cooling system, andlights are in good operatingcondition.

All weights and loads are withinlimits.

The hitch, safety chains, and anyother attachments are secure.

All items in or on the trailer areproperly secured and cannot shiftwhile you drive.

Your vehicle tires and spare areproperly inflated, and the trailertires and spare are inflated asrecommended by the trailermaker. CONTINUED

Towing a Trailer

Additional Towing Equipment

Towing Speeds and Gears

Driving Safely With a TrailerPre-Tow Checklist

Driving

151

If you must stop when facing uphill,use the foot brake or parking brake.Do not try to hold the vehicle inplace by pressing on the accelerator,as this can cause the automatictransmission to overheat.

When driving down hills, reduceyour speed and shift down to 2ndgear (manual) or D (automatic). Donot ‘‘ride’’ the brakes, and rememberit will take longer to slow down andstop when towing a trailer.

Make turns more slowly and widerthan normal. The trailer tracks asmaller arc than your vehicle, and itcan hit or run over something thevehicle misses. Allow more time anddistance for braking. Do not brake orturn suddenly as this could cause thetrailer to jackknife or turn over.

When climbing hills, closely watchyour temperature gauge. If it nearsthe red (Hot) mark, turn the airconditioning off, reduce speed and, ifnecessary, pull to the side of theroad to let the engine cool.

If the automatic transmission shiftsfrequently while going up a hill, shiftto D .

Crosswinds and air turbulencecaused by passing trucks can disruptyour steering and cause trailerswaying. When being passed by alarge vehicle, keep a constant speedand steer straight ahead. Do not tryto make quick steering or brakingcorrections.

Always drive slowly and havesomeone guide you when backing up.Grip the of the steeringwheel; then turn the wheel to the leftto get the trailer to move to the left,and turn the wheel right to move thetrailer to the right.

Follow all normal precautions whenparking, including firmly setting theparking brake and putting thetransmission in Park (automatic) orin 1st or Reverse (manual). Also,place wheel chocks at each of thetrailer’s tires.

3

3

bottom

Towing a Trailer

Making Turns and Braking

Driving on Hills

Handling Crosswinds and Buffeting

Backing Up

Parking

152

This section explains why it isimportant to keep your vehicle wellmaintained and how 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 vehicle, you may wantto purchase the Service Manual. Seepage for information on how toobtain a copy, or see your dealer.

......................Maintenance Safety . 154.................Maintenance Schedule . 155

....................Maintenance Record . 159..............................Fluid Locations . 161

........................Adding Engine Oil . 162..........Changing the Oil and Filter .163

..............................Engine Coolant . 165....................Windshield Washers . 167

....Automatic Transmission Fluid . 167................Brake and Clutch Fluid . 169

.....................................Drive Belts . 170....................Power Steering Fluid . 171

.............................................Lights . 172................Cleaning the Seat Belts . 179

.....................................Floor Mats . 179..................Dust and Pollen Filter . 179

.................................Wiper Blades . 180...............................................Tires . 182

...................Checking the Battery . 188.............................Vehicle Storage . 189

231

MaintenanceM

aintenance

153

To eliminate potential hazards, readthe instructions before you begin,and make sure you have the toolsand skills required.

Make sure your vehicle is parkedon level ground, the parking brakeis set, and the engine is off.

To clean parts, use a commerciallyavailable degreaser or partscleaner, not gasoline.

To reduce the possibility of fire orexplosion, keep cigarettes, sparks,and flames away from the batteryand all fuel-related parts.

Be sure there isadequate ventilation whenever youoperate the engine.

Let theengine and exhaust system coolbefore touching any parts.

Donot run the engine unlessinstructed to do so.

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.

All service items not detailed in thissection should be performed by acertified technician or other qualifiedmechanic.

Wear eye protection andprotective clothing when working

with the battery or compressed air.

Maintenance Safety

Important Safety Precautions

Potential Vehicle HazardsCarbon Monoxide poison fromengine exhaust.

Burns from hot parts.

Injury from moving parts.

154

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

Always follow the proceduresand precautions in this owner’smanual.

Improperly maintaining thisvehicle, or failing to correct aproblem before driving cancause a crash in which you canbe seriously hurt or killed.

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

－

－

The maintenance schedule assumesyou will use your vehicle as normaltransportation for passengers andtheir possessions. You should alsofollow these recommendations:

Service your vehicle according to thetime and mileage periods on one ofthe Maintenance Schedules on thefollowing pages.

Follow theMaintenance Schedule for SevereConditions if you drive your vehicleMAINLY under one or more of thefollowing conditions.

Driving less than 5 miles (8 km)per trip or, in freezingtemperatures, driving less than 10miles (16 km) per trip.

Driving in extremely hot [over90°F (32°C)] conditions.

Used primarily as a deliveryvehicle or taxi that is drivenmostly in stop-and-go traffic and/or parked with the engine idling.

Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads.

If you only driveunder a ‘‘severe’’ condition, youshould follow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule.

Avoid exceeding your vehicle’sload limit. This puts excess stresson the engine, brakes, and manyother vehicle parts. The load limitis shown on the tire informationlabel on the driver’s doorjamb.

Operate your vehicle onreasonable roads within the legalspeed limit.

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

Always use unleaded gasoline withthe proper octane rating (see page

).

Trailer towing, driving with a rooftop carrier, or driving inmountainous conditions.

Follow theMaintenance Schedule for SevereConditions.

121

OCCASIONALLY

Maintenance Schedule

Which Schedule to Follow

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners Maintenance

155

NOTE:

－

－

－

－

－

＃

－

We recommend the use of genuineAcura parts and fluids whenever youhave maintenance done.

Engine oil level Check everytime you fill the fuel tank. Seepage .

Your authorized dealer knows yourvehicle 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 orskilled person to keep yourwarranties in effect. Keep all thereceipts as proof of completion, andhave the person who does the workfill out the Maintenance Record.Check your warranty booklet formore information.

Engine coolant level Check theradiator reserve tank every timeyou fill the fuel tank. See page .

Automatic transmission Checkthe fluid level monthly. See page

.

Brakes Check the fluid levelmonthly. See page .

Tires Check the tire pressuremonthly. Examine the tread forwear and foreign objects. See page

.

U.S. Vehicles:

According to state and federalregulations, failure to performmaintenance on the items markedwith will not void your emissionswarranties. However, allmaintenance services should beperformed at the recommended timeor mileage period to ensure long-term reliability.

You should check the followingitems at the specified intervals. Ifyou are unsure of how to performany check, turn to the appropriatepage listed.

Lights Check the operation ofthe headlights, parking lights,taillights, high-mount brake light,and license plate lights monthly.

125

125

169

184

167

Servicing Your Vehicle Maintenance,replacement, or repair ofemissions control devices andsystems may be done by anyautomotive repair establishmentor individual using parts that are‘‘certif ied’’ to EPA standards.

Owner’s Maintenance Checks

Maintenance Schedule

156

＊＃

＃

＃

＊

Follow the Normal MaintenanceSchedule if the severe drivingconditions specified in the SevereConditions Maintenance Schedule onthe next page do not apply.

CONTINUED

NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLYdrive under a ‘‘severe’’ condition, youshould follow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule.

Canadian owners should follow theMaintenance Schedule for SevereConditions on the next page.

157

miles x 1,000km x 1,000

Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given).

((OOrr eevveerryy 66 yyeeaarrss,, wwhhiicchheevveerr ccoommeess ffiirrsstt))

((OOtthheerrwwiissee aaddjjuusstt oonnllyy iiff nnooiissyy))

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)((OOrr eevveerryy 11 yyeeaarr,, wwhhiicchheevveerr ccoommeess ffiirrsstt))

Check inflation and condition once a monthCheck oil and coolant at each fuel stop

1016

2032

3048

4064

5080

6096

70112

80128

100160

90144


120192

130208

140224

150240

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

Every 160,000 miles (256,000 km)

110176

Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 5 years.

((OOrr eevveerryy 11 yyeeaarr,, wwhhiicchheevveerr ccoommeess ffiirrsstt))

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, middle column, page .

Check engine oil and coolantCheck tiresReplace engine oil

Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 186 )Replace engine oil filterCheck front and rear brakesCheck parking brake adjustmentInspect the following items:

Tie-rod ends, steering gear box and bootsSuspension componentsDriveshaft bootsBrake hoses and lines (including ABS)All fluid levels and condition of fluidsExhaust systemFuel lines and connections

Inspect drive beltsReplace dust and pollen filterReplace air cleaner elementReplace spark plugsInspect valve clearance

Replace automatic transmission fluidReplace manual transmission fluid

Inspect idle speedReplace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, thenevery 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years

1:: 156

1

Main

tenance

Sch

edule

for

Norm

alC

onditio

ns

＊

＊

＃

－

＃＃

＊

＊

Follow the Severe MaintenanceSchedule if you drive your vehicleMAINLY under one or more of thefollowing conditions:

Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) pertrip 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 ofstop and go driving, such as a taxi ora commercial delivery vehicle.

Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-icedroads.

Trailer towing, driving with a roofrack, or driving in mountainousconditions.

Follow thisMaintenance Schedule for SevereConditions.

Canadian Owners

158

miles x 1,000km x 1,000


1016

2032

3048

4064

5080

70112

80128

100160

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

130208

140224

Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given).

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)

Check inflation and condition once a monthEvery 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or every 6 months,

whichever comes first


((OOtthheerrwwiissee aaddjjuusstt oonnllyy iiff nnooiissyy))

Every 160,000 miles (256,000 km)

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

110176

120192

6096

90144

150240

Clean every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), and replaceevery 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

(Use normal schedule except in dusty condition)



See dust and pollen filter on page for

replacement information under special

driving conditions.

Replace at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3

years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000

km) or 2 years.

See information on maintenance and

emissions warranty, middle column,

page .

At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, thenevery 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years

Check engine oil and coolantCheck tiresReplace engine oil

Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 186 )Replace engine oil filterCheck front and rear brakesLubricate all hinges, locks, and latchesInspect the following items:

Tie-rod ends, steering gear box and bootsSuspension components, Driveshaft boots

Check parking brake adjustmentInspect the following items:

Brake hoses and lines (including ABS)All fluid levels and condition of fluidsExhaust system , Fuel lines and connectionsLights and controls/vehicle underbody

Inspect drive beltsReplace dust and pollen filterClean and replace air cleaner element

Replace spark plugsInspect valve clearance

Replace automatic transmission fluidReplace manual transmission fluid

Inspect idle speedReplace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

1 :

2 :

:

156

179

1

2

Main

tenance

Sch

edule

for

Seve

reC

onditi

ons

(for Normal and Severe Schedules)

CONTINUED

Maintenance RecordM

aintenance

159

5,000 mi

10,000 mi

15,000 mi

20,000 mi

25,000 mi

30,000 mi

35,000 mi

40,000 mi

45,000 mi

50,000 mi

55,000 mi

60,000 mi

65,000 mi

70,000 mi

75,000 mi

80,000 mi

8,000 km

16,000 km

24,000 km

32,000 km(or 1 year)

40,000 km

48,000 km

56,000 km

64,000 km(or 2 years)

Signature or dealer stamp mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

72,000 km

80,000 km

88,000 km


104,000 km

112,000 km

120,000 km



Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page ) or severeconditions (page ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.158

157

(for Normal and Severe Schedules)Maintenance Record

160

85,000 mi

90,000 mi

95,000 mi

100,000 mi

105,000 mi

110,000 mi

115,000 mi

120,000 mi

125,000 mi

130,000 mi

135,000 mi

140,000 mi

145,000 mi

150,000 mi

155,000 mi

160,000 mi

136,000 km

144,000 km

152,000 km


168,000 km

176,000 km

184,000 km



Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

200,000 km

208,000 km

216,000 km


232,000 km

240,000 km

248,000 km



Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

Fluid LocationsM

aintenance

161

ENGINE OILFILL CAP(Black cap)

POWER STEERINGFLUID (Red cap)

ENGINE COOLANTRESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP

BRAKE FLUID(Gray cap)

(Manual Transmission only)CLUTCH FLUID(Gray cap)

AUTOMATICTRANSMISSIONFLUID DIPSTICK(Yellow loop)

WASHER FLUID(Blue cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK(Orange loop)

Make sure the API Certification Sealsays ‘‘For Gasoline Engines’’.Oil is major contributor to your

engine’s performance and longevity.Always use a premium-gradedetergent oil displaying the APICertification Seal. This seal indicatesthe oil is energy conserving, and thatit meets the American PetroleumInstitute’s latest requirements. It ishighly recommended that you useHonda motor oil in your vehicle.

Unscrew and remove the engine oilfill cap on top of the valve cover.Pour in the oil slowly and carefully soyou do not spill. Clean up any spillsimmediately. Spilled oil coulddamage components in the enginecompartment.

Install the engine oil fill cap, andtighten it securely. Wait a fewminutes, and recheck the oil level.Do not fill above the upper mark; youcould damage the engine.

The oil’s viscosity or weight isprovided on the container’s label.5W-20 oil is formulated for year-round protection of your vehicle, toimprove cold weather starting andfuel economy.

RSX and Premium models

Adding Engine Oil

Recommended Oil

162

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

API CERTIFICATION SEAL Ambient Temperature

－

Always change the oil and filteraccording to the recommendations inthe maintenance schedule. The oiland filter collect contaminants thatcan damage your engine if they arenot removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requiresspecial tools and access fromunderneath the vehicle. The vehicleshould be raised on a service station-type hydraulic lift for this service.Unless you have the knowledge andproper equipment, you should havethis maintenance done by a skilledmechanic.

Run the engine until it reachesnormal operating temperature,then shut it off.

You may use a synthetic motor oil ifit meets the same requirementsgiven for a conventional motor oil: itdisplays the API Certification Sealand it is the proper weight. You mustfollow the oil and filter changeintervals given in the maintenanceschedule.

An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 ispreferred for improved fuel economyand year-round protection in yourvehicle. You may use a 10W-30 oil ifthe temperature in your area nevergoes below 20°F ( 7°C).

Your vehicle does not require any oiladditives. Additives may adverselyaffect your engine’s or transmission’sperformance and durability.

1.

CONTINUED

Type-S Synthetic Oil

Engine Oil Additives

Changing the Oil and Filter

Adding Engine Oil, Changing the Oil and FilterM

aintenance

163

Ambient Temperature

Open the hood and remove theengine oil fill cap. Remove the oildrain bolt and washer from thebottom of the engine. Drain the oilinto an appropriate container.

Install a new oil filter according tothe instructions that come with it.

Refill the engine with therecommended oil.

Engine oil change capacity(including filter):

Remove the oil filter and let theremaining oil drain. A specialwrench (available from yourdealer) is required.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt,then reinstall the drain bolt.Tighten the drain bolt to :

4.

3.2.

(Type-S)

(RSX and Premium models)

5.

6.

Type-S

RSX and Premium models

Changing the Oil and Filter

164

WASHER OIL DRAIN BOLT OIL FILTER

33 lbf·ft (44 N·m , 4.5 kgf·m)

29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)

5.0 US qt (4.7 )

4.4 US qt (4.2 )

CONTINUED

Let the engine run for severalminutes, then check the drain boltand oil filter for leaks.

Turn off the engine, let it sit forseveral minutes, then check the oillevel on the dipstick. If necessary,add more oil.

Replace the engine oil fill cap.Start the engine. The oil pressureindicator should go off within 5seconds. If it does not, turn off theengine and check your work.

Always use Honda All SeasonAntifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Thiscoolant is pre-mixed with 50 percentantifreeze and 50 percent water.Never add straight antifreeze orplain water.

If Honda antifreeze/coolant is notavailable, you may use anothermajor-brand non-silicate coolant as atemporary replacement. Make sure itis a high-quality coolantrecommended for aluminum engines.Continued use of any non-Hondacoolant can result in corrosion,causing the cooling system tomalfunction or fail. Have the coolingsystem flushed and refilled withHonda antifreeze/coolant as soon aspossible.

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.

7.

8.

9.

Adding Engine Coolant

Changing the Oil and Filter, Engine CoolantM

aintenance

165

MAX

MIN

Improper disposal of engine oil can beharmf ul 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.

If the reserve tank is completelyempty, you should also check thecoolant level in the radiator.

When the radiator and engine arecool, relieve any pressure in thecooling system by turning theradiator cap counterclockwise,without pressing down.

Remove the radiator cap bypushing down and turningcounterclockwise.

Do not add any rust inhibitors orother additives to your vehicle’scooling system. They may not becompatible with the coolant orengine components.

Pour coolant into the reserve tank.Fill it to halfway between the MAXand MIN marks. Put the cap onthe reserve tank.

Put the radiator cap on, andtighten it fully.

Pour the coolant slowly andcarefully so you do not spill. Cleanup any spill immediately; it coulddamage components in the enginecompartment.

The coolant level should be up tothe base of the filler neck. Addcoolant if it is low.

2.

1.

3.

4.

5.

Engine Coolant

166

RADIATOR CAP

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.

CONTINUED

Check the fluid level in thewindshield washer reservoir atleast monthly during normal use.

Check the fluid level with the engineat normal operating temperature.

Park the vehicle on level ground.Shut off the engine.

Remove the dipstick (yellow loop)from the transmission, and wipe itwith a clean cloth.

The lowwasher level indicator will lightwhen the level is low.

Fill the reservoir with a good-quality windshield washer fluid.This increases the cleaningcapability and prevents freezing incold weather.

When you refill the reservoir,clean the edges of the windshieldwiper blades with windshieldwasher fluid on a clean cloth. Thiswill help to condition them.

1.

2.

On Canadian models:

Windshield Washers, Automatic Transmission Fluid

Windshield Washers Automatic Transmission Fluid

Maintenance

167

DIPSTICKDo not use engine antif reeze or avinegar/water solution in thewindshield washer reservoir. Antif reezecan damage your vehicle’s paint, whilea vinegar/water solution can damagethe windshield washer pump. Use onlycommercially-available windshieldwasher f luid.

To thoroughly flush the transmission,the technician should drain and refillit with Honda ATF-Z1, then drive thevehicle for a short distance. Do thisthree times. Then drain and refill thetransmission a final time.

Insert the dipstick all the way backinto the transmission securely asshown in the illustration.

The transmission should be drainedand refilled with new fluid accordingto the time and distance recommen-dations in the maintenance schedule.

If you are not sure how to add fluid,contact your dealer.

If the level is below the lowermark, remove the fill plug and addfluid to bring it to the upper mark.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefullyso you do not spill. Clean up anyspill immediately; it could damagecomponents in the enginecompartment.

Always use Honda ATF-Z1(Automatic Transmission Fluid). Ifit’s not available, you may use aDEXRON III automatictransmission fluid as a temporaryreplacement. However, continueduse can affect the shift quality. Havethe transmission flushed and refilledwith Honda ATF-Z1 as soon as it isconvenient.

Insert the dipstick all the way intothe transmission securely.

Remove the dipstick and checkthe fluid level. It should bebetween the upper and lowermarks.

6.

5.

3.

4.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

168

UPPERMARK

LOWERMARK

Check the fluid level in thereservoirs monthly.

Replace the brake fluid according tothe time recommendation in themaintenance schedule.

Always use Honda Heavy DutyBrake Fluid DOT 3. If it is notavailable, you should use only DOT 3or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealedcontainer, as a temporaryreplacement.

Using any non-Honda brake fluid cancause corrosion and decrease the lifeof the system. Have the brakesystem flushed and refilled withHonda Heavy Duty Brake FluidDOT 3 as soon as possible.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is notcompatible with your vehicle’sbraking system and can causeextensive damage.

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.

The fluid level should be betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the sideof the reservoir. If it is not, addbrake fluid to bring it up to that level.Use the same fluid specified for thebrake system.

Low fluid level can indicate a leak inthe clutch system. Have this systeminspected as soon as possible.

Manual Transmission only

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake System Clutch System

Maintenance

169

MAX

MIN

MAX

MIN

An auto-tensioner adjusts the tensionof the drive belt. The indicator onthe auto-tensioner should be in theproper range. It should be checkedaccording to the time and distancerecommendations in themaintenance schedule.

If the indicator is not within theproper range, have the drive beltreplaced by your dealer as soon aspossible.

Drive Belts

Drive Belts

170

INDICATOR

Proper range

Check the level on the side of thereservoir when the engine is cold.The fluid should be between theUPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL.If not add power steering fluid to theUPPER LEVEL mark.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully soyou do not spill. Clean up any spillimmediately; it could damagecomponents in the enginecompartment.

A low power steering fluid level canindicate a leak in the system. Checkthe fluid level frequently, and havethe system inspected as soon aspossible.

Always use Honda Power SteeringFluid. You may use another powersteering fluid as an emergencyreplacement, but have the powersteering system flushed and refilledwith Honda PSF as soon as possible.

Power Steering Fluid

Power Steering FluidM

aintenance

171

UPPER LEVEL LOWER LEVEL

Do not spill the power steering f luidover the body, auto-tensioner, drivebelt and pulleys.If spilled accidentally, wipe of f anyf luid completely.

Turning the steering wheel to f ull lef tor right lock and holding it there candamage the power steering pump.

The headlights were properly aimedwhen your vehicle was new. If youregularly carry heavy items in thecargo area or pull a trailer,readjustment may be required.Adjustment should be done by yourdealer or other qualified mechanic.

Your vehicle uses halogen headlightbulbs. When replacing a bulb, handleit by its plastic case and protect theglass from contact with your skin orhard objects. If you touch the glass,clean it with denatured alcohol and aclean cloth.

If you need to change the lowbeam headlight bulb on the driver’sside, remove the neck of thewindshield washer reservoir fromthe bracket by sliding it to the left.

1.

Lights

Headlight Aiming Replacing a Headlight Bulb Replacing a Low Beam HeadlightBulb

172

Driver’s side

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hotwhen lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratchon the glass can cause the bulb tooverheat and shatter.

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.

Install the rubber seal and makesure it is right side up; it is marked‘‘TOP.’’

Pull the battery back to its originalposition, then install the bolt in thehold-down, and tighten it securely.

Push the electrical connector ontothe tabs of the new bulb. Makesure it locks in place. Turn on theheadlights to test the new bulb.

Install the neck of the windshieldwasher reservoir on the bracket.

Then remove the bolt from thebattery hold-down, and carefullypush the battery toward thewindshield to obtain enoughworking space.

Unclip the end of the hold-downwire from its slot. Pivot it out ofthe way, and remove the bulb.

Remove the rubber weather sealby pulling on the tab.

Remove the electrical connectorfrom the bulb by pulling theconnector straight back.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.2.

Lights

Driver’s Side

Maintenance

173

HOLD DOWNWIRE

BULB

WEATHER SEALCONNECTOR

To change a high beam headlightbulb, remove the electricalconnector from the bulb bypushing on the tab and pulling theconnector down.

Remove the bulb by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Insert the new bulb into the holeand turn it one-quarter turn clock-wise to lock it in place.

Push the electrical connector backonto the bulb. Make sure it is onall the way.

Turn on the headlights to test thenew bulb.

Remove the socket from theheadlight assembly by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket. Push the new bulb straightinto the socket until it bottoms.

3.

4.

5.

2.

1.

2.

1.

Lights

Replacing a Front Turn SignalBulb

Replacing a High Beam HeadlightBulb

174

Insert the socket into theheadlight assembly. Turn itclockwise to lock it in place.

Test the lights to make sure thenew bulb is working.



Insert the socket back into theheadlight assembly. Turn itclockwise to lock it in place.

Turn on the parking lights andcheck that the new bulb isworking.

The front parking light bulb isabove the high beam headlightbulb.

3.

4.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Lights

Replacing a Front Parking LightBulb

Maintenance

175

The front side marker light bulb isabove the low beam headlight bulb.



Insert the socket back into theheadlight assembly. Turn itclockwise to lock it in place.

Turn on the lights to make surethe new bulb is working.

2.

3.

1.

4.

Lights

Replacing a Front Side MarkerLight Bulb

176

Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket.Push the new bulb straight intothe socket until it bottoms.

Insert the socket back into thelight assembly. Turn it clockwiseto lock it in place.


Reinstall the high-mount brakelight cover.

Open the hatch.

Remove the high-mount brakelight cover by pivoting it towardthe back of the vehicle.

Remove the socket by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Open the hatch. Remove the lightassembly cover by pulling on thetab on the outside edge.

2.

3.

1.

4.

5.

6.

7.

1.

CONTINUED

Replacing Rear BulbsReplacing a High-mount BrakeLight Bulb

LightsM

aintenance

177

COVERCOVER

BULB

Reinstall the socket into the lightassembly by turning it clockwiseuntil it locks.


Install the light assembly cover.Make sure it locks in place.


Remove the socket by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Determine which of the four bulbsis burned out: brake/taillight, turnsignal light, side marker light, orback-up light.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Lights

178

If your seat belts get dirty, use a softbrush with a mixture of mild soapand warm water to clean them. Donot use bleach, dye, or cleaningsolvents. Let the belts air dry beforeyou use the vehicle.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.

The driver’s floor mat that camewith your vehicle hooks over thefloor mat anchor. This keeps thefloor mat from sliding forward andpossibly interfering with the pedals.

If you remove the driver’s floor mat,make sure to re-anchor it when youput it back in your vehicle.

This filter removes the dust andpollen that is brought in from theoutside through the heating andcooling system.

If you use an aftermarket floor mat,make sure it fits properly and that itcan be used with the floor matanchor. Do not put additional floormats on top of the anchored mat.

Have your dealer replace this filterevery 30,000 miles (48,000 km)under normal conditions. It shouldbe replaced every 15,000 miles(24,000 km) if you drive primarily inurban areas that have highconcentrations of soot in the air, or ifthe airflow from the heating andcooling system is less than usual.

Floor Mats

Dust and Pollen Filter

Cleaning the Seat Belts

Cleaning the Seat Belts, Floor Mats, Dust and Pollen FilterM

aintenance

179

LOOP

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 if they leave streaksand unwiped areas when used.

To replace a blade (front or rear):

Raise the wiper arm off thewindshield or rear window.

Disconnect the blade assemblyfrom the wiper arm by pushing inthe lock tab. Hold the lock tab inwhile you push the blade assemblytoward the base of the arm.

2.

1.

Wiper Blades

180

WIPER ARMS

LOCK TAB

Remove the blade from its holderby grasping the tabbed end of theblade. Pull firmly until the tabscome out of the holder.

Examine the new wiper blades. Ifthey have no plastic or metalreinforcement along the backedge, remove the metalreinforcement strips from the oldwiper blade, and install them inthe slots along the edge of the newblade.

Slide the new wiper blade into theholder until the tabs lock.

Slide the wiper blade assemblyonto the wiper arm. Make sure itlocks in place.

Lower the wiper arm down againstthe windshield or rear window.

3. 4.

5.

6.

7.

Wiper BladesM

aintenance

181

BLADE BLADE

REINFORCEMENT

The following pages give moredetailed information on how to takecare of your tires and what to dowhen they need to be replaced.

Keeping the tires properly inflatedprovides the best combination ofhandling, tread life, and ridingcomfort.

Underinflated tires wear unevenly,adversely affect handling and fueleconomy, and are more likely tofail from being overheated.

Overinflated tires can make yourvehicle ride more harshly, aremore prone to damage from roadhazards, and wear unevenly.

To safely operate your vehicle, yourtires must be the proper type andsize, in good condition with adequatetread, and correctly inflated.

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 in each tire at least once amonth. Even tires that are in goodcondition may lose one to two psi (10to 20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm ) permonth. Remember to check thespare tire at the same time.

Check the air pressures when thetires are cold. This means thevehicle has been parked for at leastthree hours, or driven less than 1mile (1.6 km). Add or release air, ifneeded, to match the recommendedcold tire pressures on the next page.

Inflation Guidelines

Tires

182

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.

If you check air pressures when thetires are hot (driven for severalmiles), you will see readings 4 to 6psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4 kgf/cm )higher than the cold readings. Thisis normal. Do not let air out to matchthe recommended cold air pressure.The tire will be underinflated.

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.

While tubeless tires have someability to self-seal if they arepunctured, you should look closelyfor punctures if a tire starts losingpressure.

The following charts show therecommended cold tire pressures formost normal driving conditions andspeeds.

The compact spare tire pressure is:

(U.S.: Base models, Canada:Premium models)

(Type-S model)

(Canada: Standard model)

CONTINUED

Tire Size Cold Tire Pressure forNormal Driving

Tire Size Cold Tire Pressure forNormal Driving

Cold Tire Pressure forNormal Driving

Tire Size

Front:

Rear:

Front:

Rear:Front:

Rear:

Recommended Tire PressuresNormal Driving

TiresM

aintenance

183

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.20 kgf/cm )

31 psi (220 kPa ,2.2 kgf/cm )

31 psi (220 kPa ,2.2 kgf/cm )

31 psi (220 kPa ,2.2 kgf/cm )

31 psi (220 kPa ,2.2 kgf/cm )

31 psi (220 kPa ,2.2 kgf/cm )

31 psi (220 kPa ,2.2 kgf/cm )

P215/45R17 87V

P195/65R15 89H

P205/55R16 89V

We strongly recommend that you donot drive faster than posted speedlimits and conditions allow. If youdecide it is safe to drive at highspeeds (over 137 mph or 220 km/h)be sure to adjust the cold pressuresas shown below. If you do not,excessive heat can build up andcause sudden tire failure.

Tire pressure for high-speed drivingis the same as for normal driving.

Every 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.

For convenience the recommendedtire sizes and cold air pressures areon a label on the driver’s doorjamb.For additional information aboutyour tires, see page .

When you return to normal speeddriving, be sure to readjust the tirepressure for normal driving. Youshould wait until the tires are coldbefore adjusting the tire pressure.

(Type-S model)

220Cold Tire Pressure forNormal Driving

Tire Size

Front:

Rear:

Type-S modelExcept Type-S model

Tires

High-Speed Driving Tire Inspection

184

34 psi (230 kPa ,2.3 kgf/cm )

34 psi (230 kPa ,2.3 kgf/cm )

P215/45R17 87V

Your tires have wear indicatorsmolded into the tread. When thetread wears down, you will see aband 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide acrossthe tread. This shows there is lessthan 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread lefton the tire.

A tire this worn gives very littletraction on wet roads. You shouldreplace the tire if you can see threeor more tread wear indicators.

To help increase tire life anddistribute wear more evenly, rotatethe tires every 7,500 miles (12,000km). Move the tires to the positionsshown in the chart each time theyare rotated. If you purchasedirectional tires, rotate only front-to-back.

Have your dealer check the tires ifyou feel a consistent vibration whiledriving. A tire should always berebalanced if it is removed from thewheel. When you have new tiresinstalled, make sure they arebalanced. This increases ridingcomfort and tire life. For best results,have the installer perform a dynamicbalance.

In addition to proper inflation,correct wheel alignment helps todecrease tire wear. If you find a tireis worn unevenly, have your dealercheck the wheel alignment.

For Vehicles with aluminum wheels:

Tires

Tire RotationTire Maintenance

Maintenance

185

Front Front

(For Non-directionalTires and Wheels)

(For DirectionalTires and Wheels)

INDICATORLOCATIONMARKS

TREAD WEARINDICATORS

Improper wheel weights can damageyour vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Useonly Acura wheel weights f or balancing.

Wheels:

Tires:

If you ever replace a wheel, makesure that the wheel’s specificationsmatch those of the original wheels.Replacement wheels are available atyour dealer.

Replace your tires with radial tires ofthe same size, load range, speedrating, and maximum cold tirepressure rating (as shown on thetire’s sidewall).

Mixing radial and bias-ply tires onyour vehicle can reduce brakingability, traction, and steeringaccuracy. Using tires of a differentsize or construction can cause theABS to work inconsistently.

It is best to replace all four tires atthe same time. If that is not possibleor necessary, replace the two fronttires or two rear tires as a pair.Replacing just one tire can seriouslyaffect your vehicle’s handling.

See page for information aboutDOT Tire Quality Grading and page

for tire size explanation.

(Type-S models)

(Type-S models)

(U.S.: Base model, Canada: Premiummodels)

(U.S.: Base model, Canada: Premiummodels)



222

220

Tires

Wheel and Tire SpecificationsReplacing Tires and Wheels

186

15 x 6 JJ

P195/65R15 89H

16 x 6 1/2 JJ

17 x 7 JJ

P205/55R16 89V

P215/45R17 87V

Installing improper tires on yourvehicle 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 marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘AllSeason’’ on the sidewall have anall-weather tread design suitablefor most winter driving conditions.

For the best performance in snowyor icy conditions, you should installsnow tires or tire chains. They maybe required by local laws undercertain conditions.

If you mount snow tires on yourvehicle, make sure they are radialtires of the same size and load rangeas original tires. Mount snow tires onall four wheels. The tractionprovided by snow tires on dry roadsmay be lower than your original tires.Check with the tire dealer formaximum speed recommendations.

Because your vehicle has limited tireclearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’cable-type traction devices, withrubber chain tensioners on the fronttires. Use traction devices only whenrequired by driving conditions orlocal laws. Make sure they are thecorrect size for your tires. Make link-type ‘‘chains’’ should not be used.

When installing cables, follow themanufacturer’s instructions, andmount them as tight as you can.Make sure they are not contactingthe brake lines or suspension. Driveslowly with them installed. If youhear them coming into contact withthe body or chassis, stop andinvestigate. Remove them as soon asyou begin driving on cleared roads.

Tires

Winter Driving

Snow Tires

Tire Chains

Maintenance

187

Traction devices that are the wrongsize or improperly installed candamage your vehicle’s brake lines,suspension, body, and wheels. Stopdriving if they are hitting any part ofthe vehicle.

－

Check the condition of the batterymonthly by looking at the testindicator window. The label on thebattery explains the test indicator’scolors.Check the terminals for corrosion (awhite or yellowish powder). Toremove it, cover the terminals with asolution of baking soda and water. Itwill bubble up and turn brown. Whenthis stops, wash it off with plainwater. Dry off the battery with acloth or paper towel. Coat the

terminals with grease to help preventfurther corrosion.

If additional battery maintenance isneeded, see your dealer or aqualified technician.

Battery posts,terminals, and related accessoriescontain lead and lead compounds.

If your vehicle’s battery isdisconnected or goes dead, yourdriver’s power window loses itscalibration and must bereprogrammed (see page ), andyour audio system will disable itself.The next time you turn on the radioyou will see ‘‘ ’’ in thefrequency display. Use the Presetbuttons to enter the five-digit code(see page ).

If you need to connect the battery toa charger, disconnect both cables toprevent damaging your vehicle’selectrical system. Always disconnectthe negative ( ) cable first, andreconnect it last.

78

112

Checking the Battery

WARNING:

Wash your hands after handling.

188

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

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.

If you need to park your vehicle foran extended 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 vehicle back on the road. Ifpossible, store your vehicle indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter.

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(manual) or Park (automatic).

Block the rear wheels.

If the vehicle is to be stored for alonger period, it should besupported on jackstands so thetires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (ifthe vehicle is being storedindoors).

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 vehicle with a‘‘breathable’’ cover, one madefrom a porous material such ascotton. Non-porous materials, suchas plastic sheeting, trap moisture,which can damage the paint.

If possible, periodically run theengine until it reaches fulloperating temperature (thecooling fan cycles twice).Preferably, do this once a month.

If you store your vehicle for 12months or longer, have your 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 ). Thereplacements called for in themaintenance schedule are notneeded unless the vehicle hasactually reached that time or mileage.

157

Vehicle StorageM

aintenance

189

190

This section covers the morecommon 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 vehicle towed.

......................Compact Spare Tire . 192....................Changing a Flat Tire . 193

.............If the Engine Won’t Start . 198................................Jump Starting . 200

..............If the Engine Overheats . 202.........Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 204..........Charging System Indicator . 204

.......Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 205...............Brake System Indicator . 206

..................Closing the Moonroof . 207..............................................Fuses . 208

..........................Fuse Locations . 211......................Emergency Towing . 213

Taking Care of the UnexpectedTaking

Care

ofthe

Unexpected

191

Use the compact spare tire as atemporary replacement only. Getyour regular tire repaired or replaced,and put it back on your vehicle assoon as you can.

Check the inflation pressure of thecompact spare tire every time youcheck the other tires. It should beinflated to:

Follow these precautions:

Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h)under any circumstances.

This tire gives a harsher ride andless traction on some road sur-faces. Use greater caution whiledriving.

Do not mount snow chains on thecompact spare tire.

Do not use your compact sparetire on another vehicle unless it isthe same make and model.

Replace the tire when you can seethe tread wear indicator bars. Thereplacement should be the same sizeand design tire, mounted on thesame wheel. The spare tire is notdesigned to be mounted on a regularwheel, and the spare wheel is notdesigned for mounting a regular tire.

Compact Spare Tire

192

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.20 kgf/cm )

CONTINUED

If you have a flat tire while driving,stop in a safe place to change it.Drive slowly along the shoulder untilyou get to an exit or an area to stopthat is far away from the traffic lanes.

Park the vehicle on firm, level, andnon-slippery ground. Put thetransmission in Park (automatic)or Reverse (manual). Apply theparking brake. If you are towing atrailer, unhitch the trailer.

Turn on the hazard warning lights,and turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0). Have all thepassengers get out of the vehiclewhile you change the tire.

Open the hatch. Pull up the floormat and remove the spare tirecover.

Unscrew the wing bolt.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Changing a Flat TireTaking

Care

ofthe

Unexpected

193

TOOL KIT

JACK

The vehicle can easily roll offthe jack, seriously injuringanyone underneath.

Follow the directions forchanging a tire exactly, andnever get under the vehiclewhen it is supported only by thejack.

Lift the bass speaker out of thespare tire and set it aside. Do notpull on the wiring harness going tothe speaker.

Take the spare tire out of its well.

Turn the jack’s endcounterclockwise to loosen it, thenremove the jack.

Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turnwith the wheel nut wrench.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Type-S only:

Changing a Flat Tire

194

BASS SPEAKER(Type-S only)

JACK

CONTINUED

Place the jack under the jackingpoint. Turn the end bracketclockwise until the top of the jackcontacts the jacking point. Makesure the jacking point tab isresting in the jack notch. Remove the wheel nuts, then

remove the flat tire. Place the flattire on the ground with the outsidesurface facing up.

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.

Use the extension and the wheelnut wrench as shown to raise thevehicle until the flat tire is off theground.

9. 10.

11.

12.


Care

ofthe

Unexpected

195

JACKING POINT

EXTENSION

WHEEL NUTWRENCH

Tighten the wheel nuts securely inthe same crisscross pattern. Havethe wheel nut torque checked atthe nearest automotive servicefacility.Tighten the wheel nuts to:

Put on the spare tire. Put thewheel nuts back on finger-tight,then tighten them in a crisscrosspattern with the wheel nut wrenchuntil the wheel is firmly againstthe hub. Do not try to tightenthem fully.

Lower the vehicle to the groundand remove the jack.

15.

13. 14.

Changing a Flat Tire

196

(Except Type-S)

80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

Store the jack in its holder. Turnthe jack’s end bracket clockwise toraise the jack and lock it in place.

Screw the adapter into the hole inthe spare tire well.

Remove the wheel cover or centercap and place the flat tire facedown in the spare tire well.

Set the bass speaker inside thewheel.

Secure the flat tire with the wingbolt.Remove the spacer cone from the

wing bolt, turn it over, and put itback on the bolt.

18.16.

17.

20.

21.Type-S only:

Type-S only:

19.All except Type-S:

CONTINUED


Care

ofthe

Unexpected

197

ADAPTER (Type-S only) WINGBOLT SPACER

CONE

Store the tool kit.

Store the wheel cover or centercap in the cargo area. Make sure itwill not get scratched or damaged.

Diagnosing why the 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.

When 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:

Check the transmission interlock.If you have a manual transmission,the clutch pedal must be pushedall the way to the floor or thestarter will not operate. With anautomatic transmission, it must bein Park or Neutral.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).Turn on the headlights, and checktheir brightness. If the headlightsare very dim or do not come on atall, the battery is discharged. See

on page .

Reinstall the floor mat and sparetire cover, then close the hatch.

22.

23.

24.

200

Changing a Flat Tire, If the Engine Won’t Start

If the Engine Won’t Start Nothing Happens or the StarterMotor Operates Very Slowly

Jump Starting

198

Loose items can fly around theinterior in a crash and couldseriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack, and toolssecurely before driving.

Turn the ignition switch to START(III). If the headlights do not dim,check the condition of the fuses. Ifthe fuses are OK, there isprobably something wrong withthe electrical circuit for theignition switch or starter motor.You will need a qualifiedtechnician to determine theproblem (seeon page ).

In 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 a properly codedkey? An improperly coded key willcause the immobilizer systemindicator in the instrument panelto blink rapidly (see page ).

Are you using the proper startingprocedure? Refer to

on page .

Do you have fuel? Check the fuelgauge; the low fuel indicator maynot be working.

There may be an electricalproblem, such as no power to thefuel pump. Check all the fuses(see page ).

If you find nothing wrong, you willneed a qualified technician to findthe problem. See

on page .

If the headlights dim noticeably orgo out when you try to start theengine, either the battery isdischarged or the connections arecorroded. Check the condition ofthe battery and terminalconnections (see page ). Youcan then try jump starting thevehicle from a booster battery(see page ).200

188

135

21365

208

213

If the Engine Won’t Start

Emergency Towing

The Starter Operates Normally

Starting theEngine

EmergencyTowing

Taking

Care

ofthe

Unexpected

199

＋

＋

Although this seems like a simpleprocedure, you should take severalprecautions.

To jump start your vehicle:

Open the hood, and check thephysical condition of the battery.In very cold weather, check thecondition of the electrolyte. If itseems slushy or frozen, do not tryjump starting until it thaws.

You cannot start your vehicle with anautomatic transmission by pushingor pulling it.

Connect one jumper cable to thepositive ( ) terminal on yourbattery. Connect the other end tothe positive ( ) terminal on thebooster battery.

Turn off all the electricalaccessories: heater, A/C, audiosystem, lights, etc.

Put the transmission in Neutral(manual) or Park (automatic), andset the parking brake.

1.

2.

3.

Jump Starting

200

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.

If a battery sits in extreme cold, theelectrolyte inside can f reeze.Attempting to jump start with a f rozenbattery can cause it to rupture.

－Keep the ends of the jumper cablesaway from each other and any metalon the vehicle until everything isdisconnected. Otherwise, you maycause an electrical short.

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.

If the booster battery is in anothervehicle, have an assistant startthat vehicle and run it at a fast idle.

The numbers in the illustration showyou the order to connect the jumpercables.

Start your vehicle. If the startermotor still operates slowly, checkthat the jumper cables have goodmetal-to-metal contact.

Once the vehicle is running,disconnect the negative cable fromthe grounding strap on yourvehicle, then from the boosterbattery. Disconnect the positivecable from your vehicle, then fromthe booster battery.

5.

6.

7.

4.

Jump StartingTaking

Care

ofthe

Unexpected

201

BOOSTER BATTERY

The pointer of the vehicle’stemperature gauge should stay inthe midrange. If it climbs to the redmark, you should determine thereason (hot day, driving up a steephill, etc.).

If you see steam and/or spraycoming from under the hood, turnoff the engine. Wait until you seeno more signs of steam or spray,then open the hood.

If you do not see steam or spray,leave the engine running, andwatch the temperature gauge. Ifthe high heat is due to overloading,the engine should start to cooldown almost immediately. If itdoes, wait until the temperaturegauge comes down to the midpoint,then continue driving.

If the temperature gauge stays atthe red mark, turn off the engine.

If your vehicle overheats, you shouldtake immediate action. The onlyindication may be the temperaturegauge climbing to or above the redmark. Or you may see steam orspray coming from under the hood.

Safely pull to the side of the road.Put the transmission in Neutral(manual) or Park (automatic), andset the parking brake. Turn off allthe accessories, and turn on thehazard indicators.

1.

2.

3.

4.

If the Engine Overheats

202

Steam and spray from anoverheated engine canseriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steamis coming out.

Driving with the temperature gaugepointer at the red mark can causeserious damage to your engine.

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

on page ).

If there was no coolant in thereserve tank, you may need to addcoolant to the radiator. Let theengine cool down until the pointerreaches the middle of the tempera-ture gauge, or lower, before check-ing the radiator.

Using gloves or a large heavycloth, turn the radiator capcounterclockwise, without pushingdown, to the first stop. After thepressure releases, push down onthe cap, and turn it until it comesoff.

Put the radiator cap back ontightly. Run the engine, and watchthe temperature gauge. If it goesback to the red mark, the engineneeds repair (see

on page ).

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.

If you don’t find an obvious leak,check the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank (see page

).

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.

7.8.

9.

6.

5.

10.

11.

213

125

213

If the Engine Overheats

EmergencyTowing

EmergencyTowing

Taking

Care

ofthe

Unexpected

203

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.

This indicator should nevercome on when the engine is

running. If it starts flashing or stayson, the oil pressure has dropped verylow. Serious engine damage ispossible and you should takeimmediate action.

Safely pull off the road, and shutoff the engine. Turn on the hazardwarning indicators.

Let the vehicle sit for a minute.Open the hood, and check the oillevel (see page ). An enginevery low on oil can lose pressureduring cornering and other drivingmaneuvers.

If necessary, add oil to bring thelevel back to the full mark on thedipstick (see page ).

Start the engine, and watch the oilpressure indicator. If it does not goout within 10 seconds, turn off theengine. There is a mechanicalproblem that needs to be repairedbefore you can continue driving(see on page

).

If the charging systemindicator comes on brightly

when the engine is running, thebattery is not being charged.

Immediately turn off all electricalaccessories. Try not to use otherelectrically operated controls such asthe power windows. Keep the enginerunning; starting the engine willdischarge the battery rapidly.

Go to a service station or garagewhere you can get technicalassistance.

1.

2.

3.

4.

125

162

213

Low Oil Pressure Indicator, Charging System Indicator

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

Emergency Towing

Charging System Indicator

204

Running the engine with low oilpressure can cause serious mechanicaldamage almost immediately. Turn of fthe engine as soon as you can saf ely getthe vehicle stopped.

If the indicator comes onwhile driving, it means one

of the engine’s emissions controlsystems may have a problem. Eventhough you may feel no difference inyour vehicle’s performance, it canreduce your fuel economy and causeincreased emissions. Continuedoperation may cause serious damage.

If you have recently refueled yourvehicle, the indicator coming oncould be due to a loose or missingfuel fill cap. Tighten the cap until itclicks at least three times.Tightening the cap will not turn theindicator off immediately; it takes atleast three days of normal driving.

If the indicator comes on repeatedly,even though it may turn off as youcontinue driving, have the vehiclechecked by your dealer as soon aspossible.

Your vehicle has certain ‘‘readinesscodes’’ that are part of the on-boarddiagnostics for the emissionssystems. In some states, part of theemissions testing is to make surethese codes are set. If they are notset, the test cannot be completed.

If your vehicle battery has beendisconnected or gone dead, thesecodes are erased. It takes at leastthree days of driving under variousconditions to set the codes again.

To check if they are set, turn theignition switch to ON (II), withoutstarting the engine. The MalfunctionIndicator Lamp will come on for 20seconds. If it then goes off, thereadiness codes are set. If it blinks 5times, the readiness codes are notset. If possible, do not take yourvehicle for a state emissions testuntil the readiness codes are set.Refer to State Emissions Testing formore information (see page ).226

Readiness Codes

Malfunction Indicator LampTaking

Care

ofthe

Unexpected

205

If you keep driving with themalf unction indicator lamp on, you candamage your vehicle’s emissionscontrols and engine. Those repairs maynot be covered by your vehicle’swarranties.

However, if the brake pedal does notfeel normal, you should takeimmediate action. A problem in onepart of the system’s dual circuitdesign will still give you braking attwo wheels. You will feel the brakepedal go down much farther beforethe vehicle begins to slow down, andyou will have to press harder on thepedal.

Slow down by shifting to a lowergear, and pull to the side of the roadwhen it is safe. Because of the longdistance needed to stop, it ishazardous to drive the vehicle. Youshould have it towed and repaired assoon as possible (see

on page ).

If you must drive the vehicle a shortdistance in this condition, driveslowly and carefully.

The brake systemindicator normallycomes on when

you turn the ignition switch to ON(II), and as a reminder to check theparking brake. It will stay on if youdo not fully release the parkingbrake.

If the fluid level is low, take thevehicle to your dealer and have thebrake system inspected for leaks orworn brake pads.

If the brake system indicator comeson while driving, the brake fluid levelis probably low in the reservoir.Press lightly on the brake pedal tosee if it feels normal. If it does,check the brake fluid level the nexttime you stop at a service station(see page ).

213

169

Brake System Indicator

EmergencyTowing

206

CanadaU.S.

Use a screwdriver or coin toremove the round plug in thecenter of the headliner.

Insert the moonroof wrench intothe socket behind this plug. Turnthe wrench until the moonroof isfully closed.

Get the moonroof wrench out ofthe tool kit in the cargo area.

Try closing the moonroof. If thenew fuse blows immediately or themoonroof motor still does notoperate, you can close themoonroof manually.

Check the fuse for the moonroofmotor (see page ). If the fuseis blown, replace it with one of thesame or lower rating.

Remove the wrench. Reinstall theround plug.

If the electric motor will not closethe moonroof, do the following:

If you need to close the moonroofmanually, it means the moonroofopening/closing function isdeveloping a problem. Have yourvehicle checked by your dealer.

5.

6.

4.

1.

2.

3.

211

If equipped

Closing the MoonroofTaking

Care

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Unexpected

207

ROUND PLUG SOCKET

The vehicle’s fuses are located intwo fuse boxes. The interior fusebox is underneath the steeringcolumn.

The under-hood fuse box is in theengine compartment next to thebattery.

If something electrical in yourvehicle stops working, the first thingyou should check for is a blown fuse.Determine from the chart on pages

and , or the diagram on thefuse box lid, which fuse or fusescontrol that device. Check thosefuses first, but check all the fusesbefore deciding that a blown fuse isthe cause. Replace any blown fuses,and check if the device works.

Turn the ignition switch to LOCK(0). Make sure the headlights andall other accessories are off.

Remove the cover from the fusebox.

1.

2.

211 212

Fuses

Checking and Replacing Fuses

208

INTERIOR UNDER-HOOD TAB

CONTINUED

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.

Check the smaller fuses in theunder-hood fuse box and all thefuses in the interior fuse box bypulling out each fuse with the fusepuller provided in the interior fusebox.

Look for a burned wire inside thefuse. If it is burned, replace it withone of the spare fuses of the samerating or lower.

3.

4.

5.

FusesTaking

Care

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Unexpected

209

FUSE

BLOWN

BLOWN

If the radio fuse is removed, theaudio system will disable itself. Thenext time you turn on the radio youwill see ‘‘Code’’ in the frequencydisplay. Use the preset buttons toenter the five-digit code (see page

).

If the replacement fuse of thesame rating blows in a short time,there is probably a seriouselectrical problem with yourvehicle. Leave the blown fuse inthat circuit, and have your vehiclechecked by a qualified mechanic.

If you cannot drive your vehiclewithout fixing the problem, and youdo not have a spare fuse, take a fuseof the same rating or a lower ratingfrom one of the other circuits. Makesure you can do without that circuittemporarily (such as the cigarettelighter 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.

6.

112

Fuses

210

Replacing a f use with one that has ahigher rating greatly increases thechances of damaging the electricalsystem. If you do not have areplacement f use with the proper ratingf or the circuit, install one with a lowerrating.

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CONTINUED

Circuits ProtectedAmps.No.

No. Circuits ProtectedAmps.

Daytime Running LightsSRSPower MirrorBass SpeakerHeated SeatsFuel PumpAccessory Power SocketTurn SignalFront WiperNot UsedFront Passenger’s Power WindowDriver’s Power WindowNot UsedNot Used

7.5A10A10A20A20A15A15A7.5A20A

20A20A

1213141516171819202122232425

123

4567891011

Ignition CoilLaf HeaterDaytime Running LightsRear Accessory Power SocketACG (IG)Not UsedPower Window RelayMoonroofRadioRear WiperGauge panelABS

15A20A10A

10A

7.5A20A7.5A10A7.5A7.5A

1 :2 :3 :

Canadian models onlyU. S. models onlyType-S only

1

3

1

1

2

Fuse LocationsTaking

Care

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Unexpected

211

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

－

－

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No. Amps. Circuits Protected

1234567891011121314151617181920

21 25

30 A10 A7.5 A20 A10 A20 A15 A20 A7.5 A30 A40 A40 A40 A30 A20 A15 A20 A

100 A40 A

Condenser fanSmall LightInterior LightCooling FanHazardFI ECU (ECM/PCM)Horn, StopABS (F/S)Back UpABS MotorRear DemisterHeater MotorPower WindowOptionLeft HeadlightDoor LockRight HeadlightNot UsedMain Fuse BatteryMain Fuse IgnitionSpare Fuse

Fuse Locations

212

UNDER HOOD FUSE BOX

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CONTINUED

If your vehicle needs to be towed,call a professional towing service oran organization. Never tow yourvehicle with just a rope or chain. It isvery dangerous.

The operatorloads your vehicle on the back of atruck.

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.

With the front wheels on the ground,it is best to tow the vehicle no fartherthan 50 miles (80 km), and keep thespeed below 35 mph (55 km/h).

Release the parking brake.Turn off the engine.Shift to D, then to N.Start the engine.

Shift the transmission to Neutral.Release the parking brake.

If, due to damage, your vehicle mustbe towed with the front wheels onthe ground, do the following:

Automatic Transmission:

Manual Transmission:

Emergency Towing

Flat-bed Equipment

Wheel-lif t Equipment

This is the best way to trans-port your vehicle.

This isan acceptable way to tow yourvehicle.

Taking

Care

ofthe

Unexpected

213

Trying to lif t or tow your vehicle by thebumpers will cause serious damage.The bumpers are not designed tosupport the vehicle’s weight.

Improper towing preparation willdamage the transmission. Follow theabove procedure exactly. If you cannotshif t the transmission or start theengine (automatic transmission), yourvehicle must be transported with thef ront wheels of f the ground.

If you decide to tow your vehiclewith all four wheels on the ground,make sure you use a properly-designed and attached tow bar.Prepare the vehicle for towing asdescribed above, and leave theignition switch in the Accessory (I)position so the steering wheel doesnot lock. Make sure the radio andany electrical accessories are turnedoff so they do not run down thebattery.

Emergency Towing

214

NOTICE: The steering system can bedamaged if the steering wheel is locked.Leave the ignition switch in theACCESSORY (I) position, and makesure the steering wheel turns f reelybef ore you begin towing.

The diagrams in this section giveyou the dimensions and capacities ofyour vehicle, and the locations of theidentification numbers. It alsoincludes information you shouldknow about your vehicle’s tires andemissions control systems.

................Identification Numbers . 216................................Specifications . 218

DOT Tire Quality Grading......................(U.S. Vehicles) . 220

Uniform Tire Quality..................................Grading . 220.................................Treadwear . 220

......................................Traction . 220.............................Temperature . 221

.................................Tire Labeling . 222

.......................Emissions Controls . 223.....................The Clean Air Act . 223

Crankcase Emissions Control....................................System . 223

Evaporative Emissions Control....................................System . 223

Onboard Refueling Vapor................................Recovery . 224

...Exhaust Emissions Controls . 224....................PGM-FI System . 224

Ignition Timing Control................................System . 224

Three Way Catalytic...........................Converter . 224

....................Replacement Parts . 224..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 225

..............State Emissions Testing . 226

Technical InformationTechnicalInform

ation

215

Your vehicle has several identifyingnumbers in various places.

The Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) is the 17-digit number yourdealer uses to register your vehiclefor warranty purposes. It is alsonecessary for licensing and insuringyour vehicle. The easiest place tofind the VIN is on a plate fastened tothe top of the dashboard. You cansee it by looking through thewindshield on the driver’s side. It isalso on the Certification labelattached to the driver’s doorjamb,and is stamped on the enginecompartment bulkhead. The VIN isalso provided in bar code on theCertification label.

Identif ication Numbers

216

CERTIFICATION LABEL

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

The Engine Number is stamped intothe engine block.

The Transmission Number is on alabel on top of the transmission.

Identif ication NumbersTechnicalInform

ation

217

ENGINE NUMBER MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER

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Specifications

218

Dimensions

Weights

Air Conditioning

Capacities

Engine

172.6 in (4,385 mm)67.9 in (1,725 mm)54.9 in (1,395 mm)

HFC-134a (R-134a)17.6 19.4 oz (500 550 g)

SP-10

13.2 US gal (50 )

1.35 US gal (5.1 )

101.2 in (2,570 mm)58.5 in (1,485 mm)58.5 in (1,485 mm)

3.39 x 3.39 in (86.0 x 86.0 mm)121.9 cu-in (1,998 cm )

9.8 : 111.0 : 1

1.32 US gal (5.0 )

1.69 US gal (6.4 )1.66 US gal (6.3 )

4.4 US qt (4.2 )5.0 US qt (4.7 )4.2 US qt (4.0 )4.8 US qt (4.5 )5.6 US qt (5.3 )6.1 US qt (5.8 )

0.16 US gal (0.6 )

Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in theengine.Reserve tank capacity:

Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

LengthWidthHeightWheelbaseTrack

Gross vehicle weight rating See the certification label attachedto the driver’s doorjamb.

Refrigerant typeCharge quantityLubricant type

Fuel tank

Enginecoolant

Engine oilType

Bore x StrokeDisplacementCompression ratio

Spark plug

Water cooled 4-strokeDOHC VTEC in line,

4-cylinder gasoline engine.

IZFR6K11IFR7G-11KS

SKJ20DR-M11SK22PR-M11S

Approx.

1 :

2 :3 :4 :

FrontRear

ChangeManualAutomatic

TotalManualAutomatic

ChangeIncluding filter

Without filter

Total

RSX and Premium modelsType-S

1 :2 : RSX and Premium models

Type-S

NGK

DENSO

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

4

2

3

2

3

2

3

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SpecificationsTechnicalInform

ation

219

Capacities Fuses

Alignment

Lights

Battery

Tires

0.0 in (0 mm)0.08 in (2.0 mm)

0°30’

1.8 US qt (1.7 )1.6 US qt (1.5 )

2.9 US qt (2.7 )6.9 US qt (6.5 )2.6 US qt (2.5 )4.8 US qt (4.5 )

1°00’2°53’

P205/55R16 89VP195/65R15 89H

Manualtransmissionfluid

Interior

Under-hood

Toe-in

Camber

Caster12 V

12 V12 V

12 V

5 W (Amber)

65 W

21 W55 W

Headlights

Front turn signalFront parking lightsFront side marker lightsRear turn signal lightsBrake/TaillightsHigh-mount brake lightRear side marker lightsBack-up lightsLicense plate lightsCeiling lightCargo area lightSpotlightsGlove box light

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.20 kgf/cm )31 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )31 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

T125/70D16 96MT135/70D15 99M

Capacity 12 V 36 AH/5 HR

12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V

3.4 W8 W5 W8 W5 W21 W5 W21 W21 W/5 W21 W

12 V 5 W Size

Pressure

P215/45R17 87V

See page 211 or the fuse labelattached to the inside of the fusebox door under the dashboard.See page 212 or the fuse boxcover.

HighLow

FrontRearFrontRearFront

Type-S

ChangeTotalChangeTotalU.S. vehiclesCanadianvehicles

Canadian Standard model1 :2 :3 :

Front/Rear

Spare

FrontRearSpare

(HB3)

U.S. Base model and Canadian Premium models

Automatic trans-mission fluidWindshieldwasher reservoir

1

2

3

1, 2

3

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Quality grades can be found whereapplicable on the tire sidewallbetween the tread shoulder and themaximum section width. Forexample:

The 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 one-half (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.

The 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.

All passenger vehicle tires mustconform to Federal SafetyRequirements in addition to thesegrades.

The tires on your vehicle meet allU.S. Federal Safety Requirements.All tires are also graded fortreadwear, traction, and temperatureperformance according toDepartment of Transportation(DOT) standards. The followingexplains these gradings.

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Treadwear 200Traction AATemperature A

Treadwear Traction AA, A, B, C

220

－The 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 passengervehicle tires must meet under theFederal Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard No. 109. Grades B and Arepresent higher levels ofperformance on the laboratory testwheel than the minimum required bylaw.

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 buildup and possible tirefailure.

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Temperature A, B, C

TechnicalInform

ation

221

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Rim diameter in inches.

Load index (a numerical codeassociated with the maximumload the tire can carry).

Speed symbol (analphabetical code indicatingthe maximum speed rating).

The tires that came on your vehiclehave a number of markings. Thoseyou should be aware of are describedbelow.

Tire Identification Number (TIN) isa group of numbers and letters thatlook like the following example TIN.

This indicates that the tiremeets all requirements ofthe U.S. Department ofTransportation.

Manufacturer’sidentification mark.

Tire type code.

Date of manufacture.

Whenever tires are replaced, theyshould be replaced with tires of thesame size. The following is anexample of tire size with anexplanation of what each componentmeans.

Tire construction code (Rindicates radial).

Aspect ratio (the tire’s sectionheight as a percentage of itswidth).

Tire width in millimeters.

Vehicle type (P indicatespassenger vehicle).

P

55

R

V

16

DOT

B97R

FW6X

2202205

89

Tire Labeling

Tire Size

Tire Identif ication Number

222

DOT B97R FW6X 2202

P205/55R16 89V

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＊The burning of gasoline in yourvehicle’s engine produces several by-products. Some of these are carbonmonoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen(NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC).Gasoline evaporating from the tankalso produces hydrocarbons. Con-trolling the production of NOx, CO,and HC is important to the environ-ment. Under certain conditions ofsunlight and climate, NOx and HCreact to form photochemical ‘‘smog.’’Carbon monoxide does not contri-bute to smog creation, but it is apoisonous gas.

In Canada, Acura vehicles complywith the Canadian emissionrequirements, as specified in anagreement with EnvironmentCanada, at the time they aremanufactured.

Your vehicle has a positivecrankcase ventilation system. Thiskeeps gasses that build up in theengine’s crankcase from going intothe atmosphere. The positivecrankcase ventilation valve routesthem from the crankcase back to theintake manifold. They are thendrawn into the engine and burned.

As 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.

The United States Clean Air Actsets 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 pages

and .157 158

Emissions Controls

Crankcase Emissions ControlSystem

Evaporative Emissions ControlSystem

The Clean Air Act

TechnicalInform

ation

223

The 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.

The exhaust emissions controlsinclude three systems: PGM-FI,ignition timing control, and threeway catalytic converter. These threesystems work together to control theengine’s combustion and minimizethe amount of HC, CO, and NOx thatcomes out the tailpipe. The exhaustemissions control systems areseparate from the crankcase andevaporative emissions controlsystems.

The PGM-FI System uses sequentialmultiport fuel injection.It has three subsystems: air intake,engine control, and fuel control. Thepowertrain control module (PCM) inautomatic transmission vehicles orthe engine control module (ECM) inmanual transmission vehicles usesvarious sensors to determine howmuch air is going into the engine. Itthen controls how much fuel to injectunder all operating conditions. The emissions control systems are

covered by warranties separate fromthe rest of your vehicle. Read yourwarranty manual for more informa-tion.

The emissions control systems aredesigned and certified to worktogether in reducing emissions tolevels that comply with the Clean AirAct. To make sure the emissionsremain low, you should use only newAcura replacement parts or theirequivalent for repairs. Using lowerquality parts may increase theemissions from your vehicle.

The three way catalytic converter isin the exhaust system. Throughchemical reactions, it converts HC,CO, and NOx in the engine’s exhaustto carbon dioxide (CO ), nitrogen(N ), and water vapor.

This system constantly adjusts theignition timing, reducing the amountof HC, CO, and NOx produced.

2

2

Emissions Controls

Onboard Refueling VaporRecovery

Exhaust Emissions Controls

Replacement PartsPGM-FI System

Three Way Catalytic Converter

Ignition Timing Control System

224

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 Acura 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 vehicle away from highgrass, dry leaves, or other flamma-bles.

A defective three way catalyticconverter contributes to air pollution,and can impair your engine’s per-formance. Follow these guidelines toprotect your vehicle’s three waycatalytic converter.

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 vehicle diagnosed andrepaired if it is misfiring, back-firing, stalling, or otherwise notrunning properly.

Three Way Catalytic ConverterTechnicalInform

ation

225

THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER

If you take your vehicle for a stateemissions test shortly after thebattery has been disconnected orgone dead, it may not pass the test.This is because of certain ‘‘readinesscodes’’ that must be set in the on-board diagnostics for the emissionssystems. These codes are erasedwhen the battery is disconnected,and set again only after several daysof driving under a variety ofconditions.

If the testing facility determines thatthe readiness codes are not set, youwill be requested to return at a laterdate to complete the test. If you mustget the vehicle re-tested within thenext two or three days, you cancondition the vehicle for retesting bydoing the following.

Make sure the gas tank is nearly,but not completely, full (around3/4).

Make sure the vehicle has beenparked with the engine off for 8hours or more.

Make sure the ambienttemperature is between 20° and95°F.

Without touching the acceleratorpedal, start the engine, and let itidle for 20 seconds.

Keep the vehicle in Park(automatic transmission) orNeutral (manual transmission).Increase the engine speed to 2,000rpm, and hold it there until thetemperature gauge rises to at least1/4 of the scale (about 3 minutes).

Select a nearby lightly traveledmajor highway where you canmaintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph(80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20minutes. Drive on the highway inD (A/T) or 5th (M/T). Do not use

the cruise control. When trafficallows, drive for 90 secondswithout moving the acceleratorpedal. (Vehicle speed may varyslightly; this is okay.) If you cannotdo this for a continuous 90seconds because of trafficconditions, drive for at least 30seconds, then repeat it two moretimes (for a total of 90 seconds).

Then drive in city/suburbantraffic for at least 10 minutes.When traffic conditions allow, letthe vehicle coast for severalseconds without using theaccelerator pedal or the brakepedal.

If the testing facility determines thereadiness codes are still not set, seeyour dealer.

State Emissions Testing

Testing of Readiness Codes

226

Customer Relations................................Information . 228

....................Warranty Coverages . 229Reporting Safety Defects

..........................(U.S. Vehicles) . 230.....................Authorized Manuals . 231

Warranty and Customer RelationsW

arrantyand

Custom

erR

elations

227

If you are dissatisfied with thedecision made by the dealership’smanagement, contact the AcuraCustomer Relations Office.

U.S. Owners:

In Puerto Rico and the U.S. VirginIslands:

Bella International Corp.C-1 Bechara St. Segarra CornerPuerto Nuevo, Puerto Rico 00920

Tel:(787) 620-7028

When you call or write, please giveus this information:

Vehicle Identification Number(see page )Name and address of the dealerwho services your vehicleDate of purchaseMileage on your vehicleYour name, address, and tele-phone numberA detailed description of theproblemName of the dealer who sold thevehicle to you

Canadian Owners:

Acura 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 general managercan help. Almost all problems aresolved in this way.

217

Customer Relations Information

228

CUSTOMER RELATIONS

RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTÈLE

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.Acura Client ServicesMail Stop 500-2N-7E1919 Torrance Blvd.Torrance, CA 90501-2746

Tel: (800) 382-2238

Honda Canada Inc.715 Milner AvenueToronto, ONM1B 2K8

Tel:1-888-9-ACURA-9Fax:Toll-free 1-877-939-0909

Toronto (416) 287-4776

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covers your new vehicle, except forthe battery, emissions controlsystems and accessories, againstdefects in materials andworkmanship.

these twowarranties cover your vehicle’semissions control systems. Time,mileage, and coverage areconditional. Please read yourwarranty manual for exactinformation.

a seatbelt that fails to function properly iscovered for the useful life of thevehicle.

all exterior body panels arecovered for rust-through from theinside for the specified time periodwith no mileage limit.

Acura accessories are covered underthis warranty. Time and mileagelimits depend on the type ofaccessory and other factors. Pleaseread your warranty manual fordetails.

covers all Acurareplacement parts against defects inmaterials and workmanship.

provides proratedcoverage for a replacement batterypurchased from an Acura dealer.

providescoverage for as long as the pur-chaser of the muffler owns thevehicle.

Restrictions and exclusions apply toall these warranties. Please read the2005 Acura Warranty Informationbooklet that came with your vehiclefor precise information on warrantycoverages. Your vehicle’s originaltires are covered by theirmanufacturer. Tire warrantyinformation is in a separate booklet.

Please refer to the 2005 WarrantyManual that came with your vehicle.

this warranty gives upto 100 percent credit toward areplacement battery.

Your new vehicle is covered by thesewarranties:

Warranty Coverages

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

Emissions Control Systems DefectsWarranty and EmissionsPerformance Warranty

Seat Belt Limited Warranty

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty

Accessory Limited Warranty

Replacement Parts LimitedWarranty

Replacement Battery LimitedWarranty

Replacement Muffler LifetimeLimited Warranty

Original Equipment Battery LimitedWarranty

Warranty

andC

ustomer

Relations

229

If NHTSA receives similarcomplaints, it may open aninvestigation, and if it finds that asafety defect exists in a group ofvehicles, it may order a recall andremedy campaign. However, NHTSAcannot become involved in individualproblems between you, your dealer,or Acura Automobile Division,American 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 of Transportation,Washington, D.C. 20590.

You can also obtain otherinformation about motor vehiclesafety from the Hotline.

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 Acura AutomobileDivision, American Honda Motor Co.,Inc.

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

230

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The publications shown below can be purchased from HelmIncorporated. You can order in any of three ways:

Detach and mail the order form on the right half of this pageCall Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356Go online at

If you are interested in other years or models, contact Helm Inc.at 1-800-782-4356.

(credit card orders only)

Valid only for sales within the United States. Canadianowners should contact their authorized Acura dealer.

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)

Authorized ManualsA

uthorizedM

anuals

231

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Publication

Form Number

61S6M03

61S6M03EL

61S6M30

31S6M630

31S6M920

31S6MQ20

ACU-R

Form Description

2002 05 Acura RSX

Service Manual

2002 05 Acura RSX

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual

2002 05 Acura RSX

Body Repair Manual

2005 Acura RSX

Owner’s Manual

2005 Acura RSX

Maintenance Journal

2005 Acura RSX

Quick Start Guide

Order Form for Previous Years-

Indicate Year and Model Desired

ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-782-4356

OR

PUBLICATION NUMBERVEHICLE MODEL

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www. helminc. com

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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.

This manual complements the service manual byproviding in-depth troubleshooting information for eachelectrical circuit in your vehicle.

This manual describes the procedures involved in thereplacement of damaged body parts.

Service Manual:

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:

Body Repair Manual:

Authorized Manuals

232

NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name,and also the name of the person to whose attention the shipment shouldbe sent. For purchases outside U.S.A. please write to the address shownbelow for a quotation.

P.O. BOX 07280·DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207·1-800-782-4356

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Check or money order enclosed payable to Helm Inc U.S. funds only.Do not send cash

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VISA Check here if your billing address is differentfrom the shipping address shown above.

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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.

CONTINUED

....................................Accessories . 127ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

.......................................Position) . 66..............Accessory Power Sockets . 83

....................Additives, Engine Oil . 163.............................Airbag (SRS) . 11, 22

...Airbags, Additional Information . 22

...Additional Safety Precautions . 27.............................Airbag Service . 27


..How the SRS Indicator Works . 26How Your Front Airbags

.........................................Work . 23...How Your Side Airbags Work . 25

........................SRS Components . 22................Air Conditioning System . 88

.......................Air Pressure, Tires . 182......................................Antifreeze . 165

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)...............................Indicator . 53, 147

...................................Operation . 147Anti-theft Steering Column

..............................................Lock . 66

..................................Audio System . 92...Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners . 20

.............Automatic Speed Control . 115..............Automatic Transmission . 139

..........................Capacity, Fluid . 219...............Checking Fluid Level . 167

.......................................Shifting . 139.Shift Lever Position Indicator . 139

................Shift Lever Positions . 139....................Shift Lock Release . 144

BatteryCharging System

...........................Indicator . 53, 204............................Jump Starting . 200

..............................Maintenance . 188............................Specifications . 219

..............................Before Driving . 119..................................Belts, Seat . 10, 19

...........................Beverage Holders . 83..................................Booster Seats . 42

Brakes...........Anti-lock System (ABS) . 147

.............Break-in, New Linings . 121

....................Bulb Replacement . 177...........................................Fluid . 169

.................System Indicator . 53, 206........................Wear Indicators . 146

.............................Braking System . 146.................Break-in, New Vehicle . 121

..Brightness Control, Instruments . 62........................Brights, Headlights . 61

Bulb Replacement..........................Back-up Lights . 177

..............................Brake Lights . 177................Front Parking Lights . 175

....................Front Side Marker . 176.........Front Turn Signal Lights . 174

.................................Headlights . 172.........High-mount Brake Light . 177.........Rear Side Marker Lights . 178

............................Specifications . 219..............................Bulbs, Halogen . 172

Index

A

B

IND

EX

I

＊

.................DANGER, Explanation of .ii...................................Dashboard . 4, 50

................Daytime Running Lights . 61Daytime Running Lights

.......................................Indicator . 55.................................Dead Battery . 200

............Defects, Reporting Safety . 230..........................Defog and Defrost . 91

................Defogger, Rear Window . 62....................................Dimensions . 218

...............Dimming the Headlights . 61

...................Capacities Chart . 218, 219.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 45

...........................Cargo Area Cover . 75........................Cargo, . 129

Cassette Player............................................Care . 100

.....................................Operation . 98..............CAUTION, Explanation of . ii

.........................................CD Care . 108...................................CD Changer . 103

............................................Care . 108...................................Operation . 103

CD Changer Error.............................Message . 110, 111

...........CD Player Error Message . 109........................Certification Label . 216

...................................Chains, . 187....................Changing a Flat Tire . 193

Changing Oil........................................How to . 163......................................When to . 157

...Charging System Indicator . 53, 204............Checklist, Before Driving . 134

.....................................Child Safety . 28..............................Booster Seats . 42

...................................Child Seats . 32.....Important Safety Reminders . 28

..........................................Infants . 32..........................Larger Children . 41

.........................................LATCH . 36......................Risks with Airbags . 29

.............................Small Children . 33.........................................Tethers . 39

.........Where Should a Child Sit? . 29Child Seats

.........................................LATCH . 36...........................Lower Anchors . 36

..........Tether Anchorage Points . 39..............................................Clock . 113

.........................Clock, Setting the . 113...................................Clutch Fluid . 169

.....................Code, Audio System . 112........................CO in the Exhaust . 223

............Cold Weather, Starting in . 135.......................Compact Spare . 192

...................Console Compartment . 84...............Consumer Information . 228

.............Controls, Instruments and . 49

Coolant........................................Adding . 165

....................................Checking . 125.........................Proper Solution . 165

...................Temperature Gauge . 58Crankcase Emissions Control

........................................System . 223................Cruise Control Indicator . 54............Cruise Control Operation . 115

.....................................Cup Holders . 83..........Customer Relations Office . 228

how to carry

tires

tire

Index

C

D

II

CONTINUED

Dipstick..........Automatic Transmission . 167

..................................Engine Oil . 125..........................Directional Signals . 61

........Disc Brake Wear Indicators . 146.....................Disposal of Used Oil . 165

Doors..............Locking and Unlocking . 67

......................Power Door Locks . 67..........DOT Tire Quality Grading . 220

Downshifting, 5-speed and 6-speed.............Manual Transmissions . 136

.....................................Drive Belts . 170...........Driver and Passenger Safety . 7

...........................................Driving . 133....................................Economy . 126

..............................Economy, Fuel . 126Emergencies

............................Jump Starting . 200.......................................Towing . 213

.........Hazard Warning Flashers . 62............Emergencies on the Road . 191.............Battery, Jump Starting . 200

...........Brake System Indicator . 206................Changing a Flat Tire . 193

.....Charging System Indicator . 204..................Checking the Fuses . 208

.....Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 204...Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 205...Manually Closing Moonroof . 207

..................Overheated Engine . 202......................Emergency Flashers . 62

......................Emergency Towing . 213.......................Emissions Controls . 223

.............Emissions Testing, State . 226Engine

....Coolant Temperature Gauge . 58.................................Drive Belts . 170

......Engine Speed Limiter . 137, 143Malfunction Indicator

................................Lamp . 53, 205........Oil Pressure Indicator . 53, 204..............Oil, What Kind to Use . 162

...............................Overheating . 202............................Specifications . 218

.......................................Starting . 135...................Engine, . 198

.Evaporative Emissions Controls . 223...............................Exhaust Fumes . 45

Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat........................................Belts by . 17

.....................................Fan, Interior . 88...........................................Features . 87

....................Filling the Fuel Tank . 122Filters

...............................................Oil . 163.............Flashers, Hazard Warning . 62

...................Flat Tire, Changing a . 193Fluids

..........Automatic Transmission . 167..........................................Brake . 169.........................................Clutch . 169

..........................Power Steering . 171..................Windshield Washer . 167

FM Stereo Radio.....................................Reception . 96

...........................Folding Rear Seat . 73..........................Four-way Flashers . 62

............................Front Airbags . 11, 22if it won’t start

Index

F

E

IND

EX

III

Front Seat......................................Adjusting . 71

.........................................Heaters . 74

...................................Airbags . 11, 22.................................................Fuel . 121

......................Fill Door and Cap . 122...........................................Gauge . 58

................Octane Requirement . 121........................Reserve Indicator . 54

........................Tank, Filling the . 122.....................Fuses, Checking the . 208

...............Gas Mileage, Improving . 126.........................................Gasoline . 121

...............Fuel Reserve Indicator . 54...........................................Gauge . 58

................Octane Requirement . 121........................Tank, Filling the . 122

................Gas Station Procedures . 122Gauges

...Engine Coolant Temperature . 58...............................................Fuel . 58

Gearshift Lever Positions..........Automatic Transmission . 139

5-speed and 6-speed Manual.......................Transmissions . 136

........................................Glove Box . 84

.............Halogen Headlight Bulbs . 172................................................Hatch . 68

.................................Opening the . 68..............Hazard Warning Flashers . 62

Headlights........................................Aiming . 172

............Daytime Running Lights . 61..................High Beam Indicator . 54

........................Reminder Beeper . 61........Replacing Halogen Bulbs . 172

...................................Turning on . 61.....................................Heater, Seat . 74

.......................Heating and Cooling . 88.............High Altitude, Starting at . 135

.................High-Low Beam Switch . 61..............High-mount Brake Light . 177

.......................Hood, Opening the . 123..................................................Horn . 59

...........................Hydraulic Clutch . 169

...Identification Number, Vehicle . 216Ignition

..............................................Keys . 64...........................................Switch . 66

............Timing Control System . 224........................Immobilizer System . 65

.........Important Safety Precautions . 8Indicators

.......ABS (Anti-lock Brake) . 53, 147Brake (Parking and Brake

............................System) . 53, 206................Charging System . 53, 204

.............................Cruise Control . 54....................................Door-open . 54

DRL (Daytime Running......................................Lights) . 55

...................................High Beam . 54........Key (Immobilizer System) . 54

......................................Low Fuel . 54................Low Oil Pressure . 53, 204

...........................Side Airbag Off . 52...............................................SRS . 52

Turn Signal and Hazard...................................Warning . 54

Index

G

H

I

IV

CONTINUED

..............................Washer Level . 55.........Indicators, Instrument Panel . 52

...............................Infant Restraint . 32Infant Seats

.........................................LATCH . 36...........................Lower Anchors . 36

..........Tether Anchorage Points . 40...................Inflation, Proper Tire . 183

...................................Inside Mirror . 79.............................Inspection, Tire . 184

............................Instrument Panel . 51........Instrument Panel Brightness . 62

..........Instrument Panel Indicators . 52.................................Interior Lights . 86

........................................Introduction . i

..................................................Keys . 64

.......................Label, Certification . 216.................Lane Change, Signaling . 61

..................Lap/Shoulder Belts . 15, 19...........LATCH Anchorage System . 36

Lights....................Bulb Replacement . 172

.....................................Load Limit . 130......LOCK (Ignition Key Position) . 66

Locks.......Anti-theft Steering Column . 66

............................Fuel Fill Door . 122....................................Glove Box . 84

............................................Hatch . 68..............Power Door and Hatch . 67

........................Low Coolant Level . 125.........................Low Fuel Indicator . 54

...Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 53, 204.................................Lower Anchor . 36

...Lower Gear, Downshifting to a . 136Lubricant Specifications

..................................Chart . 218, 219..............Luggage, . 129

.....Luggage Cover (Cargo Cover) . 75

..................................Maintenance . 153...Owner Maintenance Checks . 156

........................................Record . 159......................Required Indicator . 55

..........................................Safety . 154.............................Schedule . 155-158

.Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 53, 205...................Manual Transmission . 136

................................Shifting the . 136...............................Meters, Gauges . 57

..........................Mirrors, Adjusting . 79...............Modifying Your Vehicle . 127

.........................................Moonroof . 79......................Closing Manually . 207

.....................................Operation . 79

.................Jacking up the Vehicle . 194.......................................Jack, Tire . 194

................................Jump Starting . 200

Storing (Cargo)

Index

J

K

L M

IND

EX

V

...................Radiator Overheating . 202...............Radio/CD Sound System . 92

...........................Readiness Codes . 226..Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement . 177

............................Rear Seat Access . 72..........................Rear Seat, Folding . 73

............................Rear View Mirror . 79.................Rear Window Defogger . 62

....................Rear Window Washer . 60.......................Rear Window Wiper . 60

...............Reclining the Seat Backs . 71.......Recommended Shift Speeds . 137

.......................Reminder Indicators . 52

.......................Remote Transmitter . 69Replacement Information

..............Dust and Pollen Filter . 179................Engine Oil and Filter . 163

.................................Floor Mats . 179..........................................Fuses . 208

................................Light Bulbs . 172....................................Schedule . 155.....................................Seat Belts . 21

...........................................Tires . 186.............................Wiper Blades . 180

...................Neutral Gear Position . 140..................New Vehicle Break-in . 121

.....................Normal Shift Speeds . 137...................NOTICE, Explanation of . i

...............Numbers, Identification . 216

...Octane Requirement, Gasoline . 121.........................................Odometer . 57

...............................Odometer, Trip . 57Oil

........................Change, How to . 163......................Change, When to . 157......................Checking Engine . 125..............Pressure Indicator . 53, 204

Selecting Proper Viscosity..............................Chart . 162, 163

...........ON (Ignition Key Position) . 66Onboard Refueling Vapor

....................................Recovery . 224..............................Outside Mirrors . 80

....................Overheating, Engine . 202.......Owner Maintenance Checks . 156

..............Panel Brightness Control . 62........................Park Gear Position . 140

...........................................Parking . 145.................................Parking Brake . 81

Parking Brake and Brake.................System Indicator . 53, 206

........................Parking Lights . 61, 175..Parking Over Things that Burn . 145

............................Playing the Radio . 92..................................Playing a CD . 101

..................Playing a CD Changer . 103.................................Playing a Tape . 98.............................PGM-FI System . 224

..........................Power Door Locks . 67.................Power Socket Locations . 83

..............................Power Windows . 77.........Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts . 17.........Protecting Adults and Teens . 13

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

........................Protecting Children . 28.....................General Guidelines . 28

...........................Protecting Infants . 32.............Protecting Small Children . 33

Index

N

O

P R

VI

＊

＊

CONTINUED

Replacing Seat Belts After a............................................Crash . 21

...Reserve Tank, Engine Coolant . 125...............................Restraint, Child . 28

..................Reverse Gear Position . 140................................Rotation, Tire . 185

................................Safety Belts . 10, 19.........Safety Defects, Reporting . 230

.................................Safety Features . 9.........................................Airbags . 11

.....................................Seat Belts . 10.............Safety Labels, Location of . 46

...............................Safety Messages . ii...................................Seat Belts . 10, 19

...............Additional Information . 19Automatic Seat Belt

...............................Tensioners . 20.....................................Cleaning . 179

......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 19................................Maintenance . 21

Reminder Indicator and................................Beeper . 19, 52

...................System Components . 19

...............Use During Pregnancy . 17Wearing a Lap/Shoulder

.....................................Belt . 15, 19....................................Seat Heaters . 74

..................Seats, Adjusting the . 13, 71............................Security System . 114

...............................Serial Number . 216...........................Service Intervals . 157...........................Service Manual . 231

.........Service Station Procedures . 122..........................Setting the Clock . 113

...Shift Lever Position Indicators . 139........................Shift Lock Release . 144

Shifting.The Automatic Transmission . 139

The 5-speed and 6-speed.........Manual Transmissions . 136

..............................Side Airbags . 11, 25..........................Off Indicator . 27, 52...............................Signaling Turns . 61

.....................................Snow Tires . 187..................................Sound System . 92

Spare Tire......................................Inflating . 192

............................Specifications . 219....................Specifications Charts . 218

................................Speed Control . 115..........SRS, Additional Information . 22

...Additional Safety Precautions . 27.............................Airbag Service . 27


..How the SRS Indicator Works . 26How Your Front Airbags

.........................................Work . 23...How Your Side Airbags Work . 25

........................SRS Components . 22.............................SRS Indicator . 26, 52

..............State Emissions Testing . 226....START (Ignition Key Position) . 66

.......................Starting the Engine . 135In Cold Weather at High

..................................Altitude . 135................With a Dead Battery . 200

........Steam Coming from Engine . 202Steering Wheel

..................................Adjustment . 63.............Anti-theft Column Lock . 66

.......................................Buttons . 116.....................Stereo Sound System . 92

Index

S

IND

EX

VII

....................Storing Your Vehicle . 189Supplemental Restraint

................................System . 11, 22

......................................Servicing . 27.........................SRS Indicator . 26, 52

...................System Components . 22..................................Synthetic Oil . 163

Unexpected, Taking Care..........................................of the . 191

....Uniform Tire Quality Grading . 220........................Unleaded Gasoline . 121

.......Used Oil, How to Dispose of . 165

.................Vehicle Capacity Load . 130......................Vehicle Dimensions . 218

....Vehicle Identification Number . 216.............................Vehicle Storage . 189

......Taillights, Changing Bulbs in . 177Taking Care of the

...............................Unexpected . 191......................................Tape Player . 98

................Technical Descriptions . 215......DOT Tire Quality Grading . 220.....Emissions Control Systems . 223

..........State Emissions Testing . 226Three Way Catalytic

...............................Converter . 225.................................Tire Labeling . 222

.......................Temperature Gauge . 58..........Temperature, Inside Sensor . 91

..............Tether Anchorage Points . 40............................Theft Protection . 112

..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 225

..................Tilt the Steering Wheel . 63..........................Time, Setting the . 113

....................................Tire Chains . 187.........Tire, How to Change a Flat . 193

...............................................Tires . 182..............................Air Pressure . 183

.........................Checking Wear . 184..........................Compact Spare . 192

......DOT Tire Quality Grading . 220......................................Inflation . 182

..................................Inspection . 184..............................Maintenance . 185

...................................Replacing . 186......................................Rotating . 185

...........................................Snow . 187....................Specifications . 186, 219

................................Tire Chains . 187..........................Winter Driving . 187

...................Tools, Tire Changing . 193Towing

.....................................A Trailer . 148................................Emergency . 213

....Equipment and Accessories . 149.............................Weight Limit . 148...........................Traction Devices . 187

.............................Trailer Loading . 148

......................Trailer Towing Tips . 149Transmission

Checking Fluid Level,..............................Automatic . 167

...........................Fluid Selection . 168..............Identification Number . 216.............Shifting the Automatic . 139

..................Shifting the Manual . 136.....................................Treadwear . 220.......................................Trip Meter . 57

....................................Turn Signals . 61

Index

T

U

V

VIII

＊

.................................................VIN . 216..................................Viscosity, Oil . 162

.............WARNING, Explanation of . ii.........Warning Labels, Location of . 46

..................Warranty Coverages . 229Washer, Windshield

........Checking the Fluid Level . 167.......................................Indicator . 55.....................................Operation . 60

Wheels...............Adjusting the Steering . 63............Alignment and Balance . 185

..........................Compact Spare . 192......................................Wrench . 195

Windows..................Operating the Power . 77

...........................Rear, Defogger . 62Windshield

.......................................Cleaning . 60.....................................Defroster . 90

.......................................Washers . 60Wipers, Windshield

.......................Changing Blades . 180

.....................................Operation . 60....................................Worn Tires . 184

.....Wrecker, Emergency Towing . 213

: U.S. and Canada only

Index

W

IND

EX

IX

Service Information Summary

Gasoline:

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Power Steering Fluid:

Brake Fluid:

Tire Pressure (measured cold):

Recommended Engine Oil:

Automatic Transmission Fluid:13.2 US gal (50 )

31 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

31 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

Unleaded gasoline, pump octanenumber of 86 or higher.

Premium unleaded gasoline,pump octane number of 91 orhigher.

Honda Power Steering Fluidpreferred, or another brand ofpower steering fluid as atemporary replacement. Do notuse ATF (see page ).

Honda Heavy Duty Brake FluidDOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 orDOT 4 brake fluid as a temporaryreplacement (see page ).

Front:

Rear:

API Premium grade detergent oil.SAE 5W-20

SAE 5W-30

Oil change capacity (includingfilter):

Honda ATF-Z1 (AutomaticTransmission Fluid) preferred, ora DEXRON III ATF as atemporary replacement (see page

).

4.4 US qt (4.2 )

5.0 US qt (4.7 )

(All except Type S)

(Type S)

(All except Type-S)

(Type-S)

Except Type-S:Type-S:

167

171

169

Documents

2005 RSX Online Reference Owner's Manual Contentstechinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/OM/AH/BRS0505OM/enu/RS...2005 RSX Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout