200 S2000 Online Reference Owner's Manual - Hondatechinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/OM/AH/AS20303OM/... · 2003 S2000 Online Reference Owner's Manual . Use these links (and links throughout

2003 S2000 Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.

Contents

Owner's Identification Form

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................... i

A Few Words About Safety .......................................................................................................................... ii

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

Driver and Passenger Safety .......................................................................................................................5 Proper use and care of your car's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.

Instruments and Controls...........................................................................................................................43 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.

Comfort and Convenience Features.........................................................................................................85How 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 car, 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 .................................................................................................................................................147The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your car to the dealer.

Appearance Care.........................................................................................................................................207Tips on cleaning and protecting your car. Things to look for if your car ever needs body repairs.

Taking Care of the Unexpected...............................................................................................................217This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.

Technical Information ...............................................................................................................................247ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.

Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ......................................................................261A summary of the warranties covering your new Honda, and how to contact us.

Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...............................................................................................................265How 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 beconsidered a permanent part of thevehicle, and should remain with thevehicle when it is sold.

This Owner’s Manual covers allmodels of the S2000. You may finddescriptions of equipment andfeatures that are not on yourparticular model.

The information and specificationsincluded in this publication were ineffect at the time of approval forprinting. Honda Motor Co., Ltd.reserves the right, however, todiscontinue or changespecifications or design at any timewithout notice and withoutincurring any obligation whatsoever.

Owner’s Identif ication

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 Honda is toread this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls andconvenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner’s manual in your car so youcan refer to it at any time.

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

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

As you read this manual, you willfind information that is preceded bya symbol. Thisinformation is intended to help youavoid damage to your S2000, otherproperty, or the environment.

California Proposition 65 Warning

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

Congratulations on your selection of the 2003 Honda S2000. We are certainyou will be pleased with your purchase of one of the most sophisticated andtechnologically-advanced sports cars in the world.

Introduction

WARNING:

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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.

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

preceded by a safety alert symbol and one ofthree signal words: , , or .These signal words mean:

such as Driver and Passenger Safety.

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

such as Important Safety Reminders or ImportantSafety Precautions.

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

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

on the car.

how to use this car correctly and safely.

A Few Words About Safety

Safety Messages

Safety Section

Safety Headings

Safety Labels

Instructions

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 Car at a Glance

2

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNAL SWITCH(P.53)

HOOD RELEASEHANDLE

DOOR LOCKSWITCH(P.62)

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES

MIRRORCONTROLS(P.80)

ROOF SWITCH(P.73)

HAZARD WARNING SWITCH(P.80)

AUDIO SYSTEM(P.94)

HEATING AND AIRCONDITIONING(P.86)

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGERBUTTON(P.57)

WINDSHIELD WIPER CONTROLS(P.55)

(P.122)

(P.70)

Your Car at a Glance

3

ENGINE START BUTTON

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS(P.53)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE CRUISE CONTROL MASTER SWITCH HORN

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS(P.55)


INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS(P.54)

REMOTE AUDIO CONTROLS(P.113)

(P.135)

(P.122) (P.115)

4

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

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

.......................................Seat Belts . 8...........................................Airbags . 9

.....................Seats & Seat-Backs . 10..........................Head Restraints . 10

..................................Door Locks . 10........Pre-Drive Safety Checklist . 11

............................Protecting Adults . 12.....1. Close and Lock the Doors . 12

...........2. Adjust the Front Seats . 12............3. Adjust the Seat-Backs . 13

4. Fasten and Position the Seat.....................................Belts . 15

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

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

........................Protecting Children . 18All Children Must Be

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

..............for Child Passengers . 19The Passenger’s Airbag Poses

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

General Guidelines for Using...............................Child Seats . 22

.........Protecting Small Children . 26.......Protecting Larger Children . 29

Additional Information About Your.................................Seat Belts . 33

..Seat Belt System Components . 33......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 33

Automatic Seat Belt...............................Tensioners . 34

...............Seat Belt Maintenance . 34Additional Information About Your

...........................................SRS . 36........................SRS Components . 36

...........How Your Airbags Work . 36How the SRS Indicator Light

.......................................Works . 38..................................SRS Service . 39

...Additional Safety Precautions . 39.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 40

...................................Safety Labels . 41

Driver and Passenger Safety


5

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

Since all children are safest in theback seat of a car, and your car doesnot have a back seat, we recommendthat you do not carry a childpassenger.

If a small child whomust be restrained in a forward-facing child seat, or a larger child,must ride in this car, be sure tofollow all instructions and safetywarnings in this manual. (See pages

and .)

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 with

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

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

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 .)

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

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150

9


Important Safety Precautions

Due to the passenger’s

airbag hazard, you should nevercarry an infant in a rear-facing childseat in this car.

Be Aware of Airbag Hazards

Don’t Drink and Drive

Control Your Speed

Keep Your Car in Safe Condition

Always Wear Your Seat Belt

Your Car is Not Recommendedfor Child Passengers

6

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

These safety features are designedto reduce the severity of injuries in acrash. However, you and yourpassenger can’t take full advantageof these safety features unless youremain sitting in a proper positionand

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

Some safety features do not requireany action on your part. Theseinclude a strong steel frameworkthat forms a safety cage around thepassenger compartment; front andrear crush zones that are designed tocrumple and absorb energy during acrash; a collapsible steering column;and seat belt tensioners thatautomatically tighten the seat beltsin the event of a crash.


Your Car’s Safety Features

always wear your seat beltsproperly.

7

(8)

(1) (9) (3) (4) (7) (6)

(2)(5)

(2)

(1) Safety Cage

(2) Crush Zones

(3) Seats & Seat-Backs

(4) Head Restraints

(5) Collapsible Steering Column

(6) Seat Belts

(7) Seat Belt Tensioners

(8) Airbags

(9) Door Locks

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

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

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

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

Your seat belt system alsoincludes a light on the

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

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

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

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.

Keep you from being thrown outof the vehicle.

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

moderate to severe frontalcollision.)

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

When properly worn, seat belts:

Help keep you from being thrownagainst the inside of the car andagainst another occupant.


Why Wear Seat Belts

What you should do:


Seat Belts

8

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

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

This system also includesan indicator light on the

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

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

Always wearyour seat belt properly, and situpright and as far back as possiblefrom the steering wheel ordashboard.

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

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

Airbags aredesigned to deploy only during amoderate to severe frontalcollision.

The seat belts are the occupants’primary protection in all types ofcollisions. Airbags supplementseat belts by providing extraprotection for occupants’ headsand chests.


Airbags

What you should do:

Airbags can pose serious hazards.

Airbags offer no protection in sideimpacts, rear impacts, rollovers,or minor collisions.

Airbags do not replace seat belts.


9

Head restraints can help protect youfrom whiplash and other injuries.

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

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

Your car’s seats are designed to keepyou in a comfortable, uprightposition so you can take fulladvantage of the protection offeredby seat belts and the energyabsorbing materials in the seats.

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

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

Seats & Seat-Backs Door Locks

Head Restraints



What you should do:

10

Seat-backs are upright (see page).

To make sure you and yourpassenger get the maximumprotection from your car’s safetyfeatures, check the following eachtime before you drive away:

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

Both doors are closed and locked(see page ).

All cargo is properly stored orsecured (see page ).

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

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

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

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

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13

12

12

128



Pre-Drive Safety Checklist

11

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

After everyone has entered the car,be sure the doors are closed andlocked.

The following pages provideinstructions on how to properlyprotect adult occupants.

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

Your car has a doormonitor light on the

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

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

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

See page for how to lock thedoors.

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62


Protecting Adults

Introduction Adjust the Front Seats

Close and Lock the Doors1.

2.

12

CONTINUED

To reduce the chance of injury, wearyour seat belt properly, sit uprightwith your back against the seat, andmove the seat away from thesteering wheel to the farthestdistance that allows you to maintainfull control of the car.

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

See page for how to adjust theseats.

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

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

The National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration and TransportCanada recommend that driversadjust the seat so the center of thechest is at least 10 inches (25 cm)away from the center of the steeringwheel. Also make sure yourpassenger moves the seat as far tothe rear as possible.

69


Protecting Adults

Adjust the Seat-Backs3.

13

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

Always sit as far back from theairbags as possible.

See page for how to adjust seat-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.

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

69


Protecting Adults

14

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.

CONTINUED

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. Also checkthat the belt is not twisted, because atwisted belt can cause seriousinjuries in a crash.

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

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

This could causevery serious injuries in a crash.


Protecting Adults

Fasten and Position the SeatBelts

4.

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

15

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

Make sure all seat belts areproperly positioned beforedriving.

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

If a seat belt does not seem to workas it should, it may not protect theoccupant in a crash.

Anyone using a seat belt that isnot working properly can beseriously injured or killed. Have yourHonda dealer check the belt as soonas possible.

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

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

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

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

33


Protecting Adults

No one shouldsit in a seat with an inoperative seatbelt.

Maintain a Proper SittingPosition

5.

16

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

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

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

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

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

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

Protecting Adults


Advice for Pregnant Women

17

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

Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt canseverely compromise theprotective capability of the seatbelt and increase the chance ofserious injury in a crash.

Carrying hard or sharp objects onyour lap, or driving with a pipe orother sharp object in your mouth,can result in injuries if yourairbags inflate.

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

Any objectattached to or placed on thecovers marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG,’’in the center of the steeringwheel and on top of thedashboard, could interfere withthe proper operation of theairbags. Or, if the airbags inflate,the objects could be propelledinside the car and hurt someone.

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

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

properly


Two people should never use thesame seat belt.

Do not put any accessories on seatbelts.

Do not place hard or sharp objectsbetween yourself and an airbag.

Keep your hands and arms awayfrom the airbag covers.

Do not attach or place objects onthe airbag covers.

Additional Safety Precautions Protecting Children

Protecting Adults, Protecting Children

18

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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 death of children ages 12 andunder.

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

(See page.)

(See page.)

We strongly recommend that you donot carry any child in this car.One reason is that your car does nothave a back seat, and accidentstatistics show that a child of anysize or age is safer when they areproperly restrained in the back seatof a vehicle.

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

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Protecting Children

All Children Must Be Restrained Your Car is Not Recommendedfor Child Passengers

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

A larger child should always berestrained with a seat belt.

19

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.

Airbags have been designed to helpprotect adults in a moderate tosevere frontal collision. To do this,the passenger’s airbag is quite large,and it inflates with tremendousspeed.As a result, we urge you to followthese guidelines.

If a larger child must ride inthis car, see page for importantguidelines on how to decide whethera child is large enough and matureenough to ride as a passenger, andhow to properly protect the child.

If the vehicle seat is toofar forward, or the child’s head isthrown forward during a collision, aninflating airbag can strike the childwith enough force to kill or veryseriously injure a small child. If asmall child must ride in this car,follow the instructions on page .

If the airbaginflates, it can hit the back of thechild seat with enough force to kill orvery seriously injure an infant.

If you are not wearing a seatbelt in a crash, you could bethrown forward into thedashboard and crush the child.

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

During a crash, thebelt could press deep into the childand cause very serious injuries. 29

26


Protecting Children

The Passenger’s Airbag PosesSerious Risks to Children

Small Children

Infants

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

Larger Children

Placing a forward-facing child seat inthe front seat of a car equipped witha passenger’s airbag can behazardous.

Never put a rear-facing child seat inthe front seat of a car equipped witha passenger’s airbag.

Never hold a small child on yourlap.

Never put a seat belt over yourselfand a child.

20

To remind you of the passenger’sairbag hazards, your car has warninglabels on the dashboard and on thedriver’s and passenger’s visors.Please read and follow theinstructions on these labels.

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


Protecting Children

U.S. Models Canadian Models

21

Leaving a child without adultsupervision is illegal in most statesand Canadian provinces and canbe very hazardous. For example, asmall child left in a car on a hotday can die from heatstroke. Achild left alone with the key in theignition can accidentally set thecar in motion, possibly injuringthemselves or others.

As discussed on page , becauseyour car does not have a back seat,and because of the passenger’sairbag hazard, we stronglyrecommend that you do not carry asmall child as a passenger in this car.

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

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

Even very youngchildren learn how to unlockvehicle doors, turn on the ignition,and open the trunk, which canlead to accidental injury or death.

Children who play in cars canaccidentally get trapped inside thetrunk. Teach your children not toplay in or around cars. Know howto operate the emergency trunkopener and decide if your childrenshould be shown how to use thisfeature (See page ).

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19

Protecting Children


Do not leave a child alone in yourcar.

Keep car keys and remotetransmitters out of the reach ofchildren.

Lock both doors and the trunkwhen your car is not in use.

General Guidelines for UsingChild Seats

Additional Safety Precautions

22

CONTINUED

To provide proper protection, a childseat should meet threerequirements:

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

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

However, Honda is confident thatone or more child seat models can fitand be properly installed in allrecommended seating positions inyour car.

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

A child who is toolarge for a rear-facing child seat, andwho can sit up without support,should be restrained in a forward-facing child seat. See page foradditional information on protectingsmall children.

26

Protecting Children


The child seat should fit thepassenger’s seat.

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

The child seat should meet safetystandards.

Selecting a Child Seat

Small Children:

2. 3.

1.

23

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

Never in the passenger’sseat, due to the passenger’s airbaghazard.

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

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

This page briefly summarizesHonda’s recommendations on whereto place a child seat in your car.

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

This car is not equipped with atether attachment point.

27

Placing a Child SeatInfants:

Small children:

Passenger’s Seat

Protecting Children


Airbags Pose SeriousRisks to Children

24

After selecting a proper child seat,there are three main steps ininstalling the seat:

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

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

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

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

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

All childseats must be secured to the carwith the lap part of a lap/shoulderbelt. A child whose seat is notproperly secured to the car can beendangered in a crash. See page

for instructions on how tosecure a forward-facing child seatin this car.

27

Protecting Children


Make sure the child seat is firmlysecured.

Secure the child in the child seat.

Storing a Child Seat

Installing a Child Seat

Properly secure the child seat tothe car with a seat belt.

1.

2.

3.

25

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

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

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

A child at least one year old who cansit up without support, and who fitswithin the child seat maker’s weightand height limits, should berestrained in a forward-facing,upright child seat.

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

Of the different seats available, werecommend those that have a five-point harness system as shown. If it is necessary to put a forward-

facing child seat in the passenger’sseat, move the passenger’s seat asfar to the rear as possible, be surethe child seat is firmly secured to thecar, and the child is properlystrapped in the seat.

Protecting Small Children

Protecting Children


Child Seat Type

26

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

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

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

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.

The passenger’s seat belt has alocking mechanism that must beactivated to secure a child seat.

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

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

The following pages provideinstructions on how to secure aforward-facing child seat with thistype of seat belt.

1.

2. 3.

4.

69

CONTINUED

Child Seat Installation

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety 27

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

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

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

5. 6.

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety28

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

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

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

When a child reaches therecommended weight or height limitfor a forward-facing child seat, thechild should wear a lap/shoulder belt.

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

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

To determine if a lap/shoulder beltproperly fits a child, have the childsit all the way back in the seat, andput on the seat belt. Follow theinstructions on page . Then checkhow the belt fits.

15

CONTINUED

Checking Seat Belt Fit

The Child Should Wear a Seat Belt

Protecting Larger Children

Protecting Children


Allowing a larger child to sitimproperly in the front seat canresult in injury or death if thepassenger’s front airbag inflates.

If a larger child must sit in front,make sure the child moves theseat as far back as possible,uses a booster seat if needed,and wears the seat belt properly.

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

If the shoulder part of the belt restsover the child’s collarbone andagainst the center of the chest, andthe lap belt rests over the child’shipbones and touches the tops of thethighs as shown, the child isprobably big enough to wear the seatbelt.

However, if the shoulder belttouches or crosses the child’s neck,or if the lap belt crosses the child’sstomach, the child needs to use abooster seat.

This could result in serious neck andinternal injuries during a crash.

If a child needs a booster seat, werecommend choosing a high or low-back style that allows the child to bedirectly secured with the lap/shoulder belt.

If they do, they couldbe very seriously injured in a crash.

Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt, severelycompromise the protective capabilityof the seat belt and increase thechance of serious injury in a crash.

This could causevery serious injuries during a crash.It also increases the chance that thechild will slide under the belt in acrash and be injured.

Using a Booster Seat

Do not let a child wear a seat beltacross the neck or over the stomach. Two children should never use the

same seat belt.

Do not put any accessories on a seatbelt.

Do not let a child put the shoulderpart of a seat belt behind the back orunder the arm.

Protecting Children


CONTINUED

Children vary widely. And while agemay be one indicator of when a childcan safely ride in this car, there areother important factors you shouldconsider.

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

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

A child should continue using abooster seat until the child exceedsthe booster seat manufacturer’srequirements.

Even then, the child may still need touse a booster seat. Note that somestates now require children to useboosters until they reach a certainage and/or weight. Be sure to checkcurrent laws in the state or stateswhere you intend to drive.

2915

Physical Size

Maturity

When Can a Larger Child Ride in thisCar

Protecting Children


Move the vehicle seat to the rear-most position.

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

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

Supervise the child. Even a maturechild sometimes needs to bereminded to fasten the seat belt orsit properly.Carefully read the owner’s manual

and make sure you understand allseat belt instructions and all safetyinformation.

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

Protecting Children


This seat belt has a single belt thatgoes over your shoulder, across yourchest and across your hips.

Your seat belt system includes lap/shoulder belts in both seatingpositions.The seat belts are also equipped withautomatic seat belt tensioners.

The system also includes alight on the instrument

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

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

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

To unlock the belt, push the redPRESS button on the buckle. Guidethe belt across your body to the doorpillar. After exiting the car, be surethe belt is out of the way and will notget closed in the door.

To fasten the belt, insert the latchplate into the buckle, then tug on thebelt to make sure the buckle islatched.

27

CONTINUED

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts


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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

15



Seat Belt MaintenanceAutomatic Seat Belt Tensioners

34

If a seat belt is worn during a crash,it must be replaced by the dealer. Abelt that has been worn during acrash may not provide the same levelof protection in a subsequent crash.The dealer should also inspect theanchors for damage and replacethem if needed.

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

booklet fordetails.

Automatic seat belt tensioners thatdeployed during a crash must bereplaced.

For information on how to clean yourseat belts, see page .212

HondaWarranty Information


U.S. Models


35

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.

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

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

Your Supplemental Restraint System(SRS) includes:

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

Automatic seat belt tensioners(see page ).

Sensors that can detect amoderate to severe frontalcollision.

A sophisticated electronic systemthat continually monitorsinformation about the sensors, thecontrol unit, and the airbagactivators when the ignition is ON(II).

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

34

38

Additional Information About Your SRS


SRS Components How Your Airbags Work

36

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

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

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

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

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

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

For additional information on howyour airbags work, see the booklettitled

that came with yourowner’s manual.

For additional information on howyour airbags work, ask your dealerfor a copy of the booklet titled

SRS: What You Need to KnowAbout Airbags

SRS:What You Need to Know About Airbags.

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners



37

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

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

The purpose of the SRSlight is to alert you to a

potential problem with yourSupplemental Restraint System.

When you turn the ignition ON (II),this indicator will light briefly thengo out. This tells you that the systemis working properly.

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

If the SRS indicator light does notcome on after you turn the ignitionswitch to ON (II).

If the light stays on after theengine starts.



How the SRS Indicator LightWorks

38

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

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

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

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

Take your car to anauthorized Honda dealer as soonas possible. If you ignore thisindication, the airbags might notinflate when you need them.

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

See page for further informationand precautions relating to your SRS.

Together, airbags andseat belts provide the bestprotection in a moderate to severefrontal collision.

127


SRS Service Additional Safety Precautions

Your airbags ever inflate.

The SRS indicator light alerts youto a problem.

Do not tamper with SRScomponents or wiring for anyreason.

Do not attempt to deactivate yourairbags.


39

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

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

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

With the trunk lid open, air flow canpull exhaust gas into your vehicle’sinterior and create a hazardouscondition. If you must drive with thetrunk lid open, open all the windowsand set the heating and coolingsystem as shown below.

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

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 Hazard

40

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 Honda dealerfor a replacement.

U.S. models Canadian models

U.S. models only


Safety Labels

41

BATTERY

SUN VISOR

RADIATOR SRS

SEAT BELT TENSIONER

DASHBOARD

42

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

...........................Control Locations . 44...............................Indicator Lights . 45

.............................................Gauges . 49...............................Speedometer . 49...............................Select Button . 49

.................................Tachometer . 49...................Temperature Gauge . 49

..................................Fuel Gauge . 50.....................................Odometer . 50...................................Trip Meter . 51

Maintenance Required...................................Indicator . 51

Controls Near the Steering.......................................Wheel . 52

...................................Headlights . 53............Daytime Running Lights . 54

....Instrument Panel Brightness . 54................................Turn Signals . 55

.....................Windshield Wipers . 55..................Windshield Washers . 56

.............Rear Window Defogger . 57...............................Keys and Locks . 58

..............................................Keys . 58....................Immobilizer System . 59

............................Ignition Switch . 60......................Power Door Locks . 62

...................Remote Transmitter . 63...........................................Trunk . 66

........Emergency Trunk Opener . 67.............Console Compartments . 68

............................Seat Adjustments . 69..............................Power Windows . 70..............................Convertible Top . 72

..Lowering the Convertible Top . 72.....Raising the Convertible Top . 75

...............Convertible Top Cover . 77................................Maintenance . 78..............................Hazard Warning . 80

.............................................Mirrors . 80....Adjusting the Power Mirrors . 80

.................................Parking Brake . 81.............................Beverage Holder . 82

...............Accessory Power Socket . 82......................................Audio Panel . 82

.................................Interior Lights . 83

Instruments and Controls

Instruments and Controls 43

Control Locations

Instruments and Controls44

HEADLIGHT/TURN SIGNALSWITCH(P.53)

HOOD RELEASEHANDLE

DOOR LOCKSWITCH(P.62)

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES(P.70)

MIRRORCONTROLS(P.80)

ROOF SWITCH(P.73)

HAZARD WARNING SWITCH(P.80)

AUDIO SYSTEM(P.94)

HEATING AND AIRCONDITIONING(P.86)


WINDSHIELD WIPER CONTROLS(P.55)

(P.122)

＊

＊

＊

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

Indicator Lights


CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR(P.48)

MAINTENANCE REQUIREDINDICATOR(P.51)

TURN SIGNAL AND HAZARDWARNING INDICATORS(P.48)

ANTI-LOCK BRAKESYSTEM (ABS)INDICATOR(P.47)

PARKING BRAKE ANDBRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR(P.46)

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR(P.46)

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING INDICATOR (P.47)

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR (P.48)

LOW FUEL INDICATOR (P.48)

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT (P.46)

SUPPLEMENTALRESTRAINTSYSTEM INDICATOR(P.47)

DOOR-OPENINDICATOR(P.47)

TRUNK-OPEN INDICATOR (P.47)

IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR (P.48)

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR (P.46)

(P.234)

This light has two functions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2.

1.

232

233

236

Parking Brake andBrake System Indicator

Low Oil PressureIndicator

Charging SystemIndicator

Seat Belt Reminder Light


Indicator Lights

46

U.S. Canada

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

This light normally comes on for afew seconds when you turn theignition switch ON (II), and whenyou push the START button. If thislight comes on at any other time,there is a problem in the ABS. If thishappens, take the car to your dealerto have it checked. With the light on,your car still has normal brakingability but no anti-lock.

See page .

This light comes on if the trunk lid isnot closed tightly.

This light comes on if either door isnot closed tightly.

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

38

234

Supplemental RestraintSystem Indicator

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)Indicator

Malfunction IndicatorLamp

Trunk-open Indicator

Door-open Indicator

Electric Power Steering(EPS) Indicator

Indicator Lights


U.S. Canada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

200

53

59

115

Canadian models only

Indicator Lights


Turn Signal andHazard WarningIndicators

High Beam Indicator

‘‘Daytime RunningLights’’ Indicator

Immobilizer SystemIndicator

Low Fuel Indicator

Cruise Control Indicator

48

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

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

The Select button switches thespeedometer reading between milesper hour and kilometer per hour. Italso changes the odometer and tripmeters to read in miles or kilometerscorrespondingly. To change thereadings, push the Select button andhold it until you hear a beep.

This shows your speed in miles perhour (mph) or kilometers per hour(km/h). 229

Gauges


Tachometer

Select Button

Temperature Gauge

Speedometer

49

TEMPERATURE GAUGE SPEEDOMETER TACHOMETER

SELECT BUTTON

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

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

Gauges


Fuel Gauge

Odometer

50

TRIP METER FUEL GAUGE

TRIP BUTTON

ODOMETER SELECT BUTTON

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

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

Your dealer will reset the indicatorwhen they perform the scheduledmaintenance. If someone elseperforms the maintenance, reset theindicator yourself.

To reset the maintenance requiredindicator, turn the ignition switch tothe LOCK position, then press andhold the trip meter reset buttonwhile you turn the ignition switchON. Continue holding the buttonuntil the indicator resets (theindicator light goes out).

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

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

This meter shows the number ofmiles or kilometers driven since youlast reset it.

There are two trip meters, Trip Aand Trip B. Switch between Trip Aand Trip B by pressing the TRIPbutton repeatedly. Each trip meterworks independently, so you cankeep track of two different distances.

To reset a trip meter, display it andthen press and hold the TRIP buttonuntil you hear a beep and thenumber resets to 0.0.

152 154


Gauges

Maintenance Required IndicatorTrip Meter

51

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

＊

＊

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

The engine start button and theremote audio controls are under theleft air vent.

The instrument panel brightnesscontrol is in the lower left corner ofthe speedometer.

The cruise control master switch isto the left of the steering column.

To use the horn, press the padaround the ‘‘H’’ logo.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel


HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS(P.53)

REMOTE AUDIOCONTROLS

ENGINESTARTBUTTON

HOOD RELEASEHANDLE

CRUISE CONTROL MASTER SWITCH WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS(P.55)

REAR WINDOWDEFOGGER BUTTON(P.57)

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS(P.54)

(P.113)

(P.135)

(P.122)

(P.115)

HORN

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

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

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

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

48

Headlights



53

＋－

＋－－＋

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

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

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

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 ignitionoff, even if you set the parking brake.

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

Canadian models only


Instrument Panel BrightnessDaytime Running Lights


BUTTON BUTTON

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

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

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

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

To select a position, push the leverup or down.

CONTINUED


Turn Signals Windshield Wipers


TURN SIGNAL LEVER

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

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

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

The wipers run at low speed whileyou’re pulling the lever, thencomplete one more sweep of thewindshield after you release it.



Windshield Washers

56

The rear window defogger will clearfog, frost, and thin ice from thewindow. Push the defogger button toturn it on and off. The light in thebutton come on to show thedefogger is on. If you do not turn itoff, the defogger will shut itself offafter about 15 minutes. It also shutsoff when you turn off the ignition.You have to turn it on again whenyou restart the car.

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

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

Do not push the defogger buttonwhen the convertible top is folded.


Rear Window Defogger


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.

Your car comes with two masterkeys and a valet key.The master key fits all the locks onyour car:• Ignition• Doors• Trunk• Lower console compartment

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

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

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

Your car also comes with two remotetransmitters; see page for anexplanation of the operation.

The valet key works only in theignition and the door locks. You cankeep the trunk and the lower consolecompartment locked when you leaveyour car and the valet key at aparking facility.

63

Keys

Remote Transmitter


Keys and Locks

58

KEYNUMBERPLATE

MASTERKEY(BLACK)

VALET KEY(GREY)

The Immobilizer System protectsyour car from theft. A properly-coded master or valet key must beused in the ignition switch for theengine to start. If an improperly-coded key (or other device) is used,the engine’s fuel system is disabled.

When you turn the ignition switch toON (II), the Immobilizer Systemindicator should come on for a fewseconds, then go out. If the indicatorstarts to blink, it means the systemdoes not recognize the coding of thekey. Turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0), remove the key, reinsertit, and turn the switch to ON (II)again.

The Immobilizer System indicatorwill also blink several times whenyou turn the ignition switch from ON(II) to ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0).

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

If you have lost your key and youcannot start the engine, contact yourHonda dealer.

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

Do not keep other immobilizerkeys on the same key ring.

Use a plastic or leather key fob,not metal.

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

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

CONTINUED

Immobilizer System

Keys and Locks


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

The ignition switch is on the rightside of the steering column. It hasthree positions:• LOCK (0)• ACCESSORY (I)• ON (II)

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.

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.


Keys and Locks

LOCK (0)Ignition Switch

60

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

Remove the key from theignition switch only whenparked.

－

－

In this position,you can operate the audio systemand the accessory power socket.

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.

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

The engine will not start if theImmobilizer System does notrecognize the key’s coding (see page

).

The engine can be started with thekey in this position by pressing theengine START button (see page

).135

59

ACCESSORY (I)

ON (II)

Keys and Locks


Each door has a lock tab next to theinside door handle. When you pushin the lock tab on the driver’s door,both doors lock. Pulling out the locktab on the driver’s door only unlocksthat door. The lock tab on thepassenger’s door only locks andunlocks that door.

To lock the passenger’s door whengetting out of the car, push the locktab in and close the door. To lock thedriver’s door, remove the key fromthe ignition switch, pull out eitherthe inside or outside door handle andpush the lock tab in, then close thedoor.

Both doors lock when you use thekey in the driver’s door. Using thekey in the passenger’s door onlylocks and unlocks that door.To unlock only the driver’s doorfrom the outside, insert the key inthe driver’s door lock, turn the keyand release it. If you turn the keyand hold it, both doors will unlock.


Power Door Locks

Keys and Locks

62

LOCK TAB

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

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

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

To open the trunk, push and hold theTRUNK RELEASE button forapproximately one second.

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

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

CONTINUED

Remote Transmitter Horn Operation

Keys and Locks


LED

UNLOCKBUTTON

LOCKBUTTON

TRUNKRELEASEBUTTON

PANICBUTTON

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

Battery type: CR2025

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

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

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

Panic Mode Replacing the Battery

Keys and Locks


Open

Close

＋

▽◎

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Transmitter Care

Keys and Locks


BATTERY ROUNDCOVER

You can open the trunk in threeways:

Press the trunk release button inthe lower console compartment.

To close the trunk, press down onthe trunk lid.

See page for cargo loading andweight limit information. Keep thetrunk lid closed at all times whiledriving to avoid damaging the lid,and to prevent exhaust gas fromgetting into the interior. See

on page .

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

To protect items in the trunk whenyou need to give the key to someoneelse, lock the lower consolecompartment with the master keyand give the other person the valetkey.Press and hold the trunk release

button on the remote transmitterfor approximately one second (seepage ).63

132

40

Keys and Locks


Trunk

CarbonMonoxide Hazard

66

TRUNK RELEASE BUTTON MASTER KEY

Push

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

For more information about childsafety, see page .

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

To open the trunk, push the releaselever to the left.

22

Keys and Locks


Emergency Trunk Opener

67

The area between the seats has twocompartments. Open the lowercompartment by squeezing thehandle. Close it with a firm push.You can lock or unlock the lowercompartment with the master key.

The lever to open the uppercompartment is inside the lowercompartment. Push up the lever andlift the lid. To close, lower the lid andpush it down until it latches.

Console Compartments

Keys and Locks


MASTER KEY

－

To change the angle of the seat-back,pull up on the lever on the outside ofthe seat bottom. Move the seat-backto the desired position and releasethe lever. Let the seat-back latch intothe new position.

Make all seat adjustments beforeyou start driving.

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

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

12 13

Seat Adjustments


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

Each door has a switch that controlsits window. To open the window,push the switch down and hold it.Release the switch when you wantthe window to stop. Close thewindow by pulling back on theswitch and holding it.

The driver’s armrest has a masterpower window control panel. Toopen the passenger’s window, pushdown on the switch and hold it downuntil the window reaches the desiredposition. To close the window, pullback on the window switch. Releasethe switch when the window gets tothe position you want.

Power Windows


DRIVER’S WINDOW SWITCH

MAINSWITCH

PASSENGER’S WINDOW SWITCH

－

The MAIN switch controls power tothe passenger’s window. With thisswitch off, the passenger’s windowcannot be raised or lowered. TheMAIN switch does not affect thedriver’s window. Keep the MAINswitch off when you have a child inthe car so the child does not getinjured by operating the windowunintentionally.

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

To open the driver’swindow fully, push the windowswitch firmly down and release it.The window automatically goes allthe way down. To stop the windowfrom going all the way down, pullback on the window switch briefly.

To open the driver’s window onlypartially, push the window switchdown lightly and hold it. The windowwill stop as soon as you release theswitch.

The AUTO function only works tolower the driver’s window. To raisethe window, you must pull back onthe window switch and hold it untilthe window reaches the desiredposition.

AUTO

Power Windows


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

Make sure your passenger isaway from the window beforeclosing it.

The convertible top on your Hondalowers and raises electrically.

Before operating the convertible top,make sure the car is parked on levelground, and that there is enoughclearance above the top.

Park your car in the shade wheneverpossible. Extended exposure tosunlight can cause the convertibletop to deteriorate.

There is a latch on each side. Pushin the tab and pull the lockinglever down.

It is advisable to raise the topwhenever you park the car. Thishelps to protect the car fromunexpected weather changes, andfrom theft of your valuables.

Apply the parking brake. Theconvertible top will not operateunless the parking brake is fullyengaged.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

1.

2.

3.

Lowering the Convertible Top

Convertible Top


LATCH TAB

LOCKING LEVER

Do not operate the convertible top inf reezing weather. You can damagethe material and mechanism of theconvertible top.

Never drive the car with theconvertible top half open.

Do not lower or raise the top whilethe engine is running.

Do not operate the top if it is wet,dirty, or covered with ice or snow.

Do not operate the convertible top ifthe car is raised on the jack, a hoist,or on jack stands.

Push the top forward while yourelease the latches from thewindshield header by pushing thelocking levers forward.

With the latches released, pullback on the locking levers andpush them up until they latch.

Pull back and hold the ROOFswitch.

4. 5. 6.

CONTINUED

Convertible Top


LOCKING LEVER

LATCHLOCKING LEVER ROOF SWITCH

The windows will lower and the roofwill fold back. Release the ROOFswitch when the roof is retractedcompletely into the rear shelf.

Make sure the rear defogger is offbefore you lower the convertible top.

Convertible Top


Operating the convertible topwhile any part of a passenger isin the way of the convertible topcan cause serious injury.

Make sure that you, yourpassenger or any other peoplearound the car are clear of theway of the moving convertibletop.

Do not sit on the f olded convertible top,or put heavy items on top of it.You could damage the top or the rearwindow def ogger wires.

Apply the parking brake. Theconvertible top will not operateunless the parking brake is fullyengaged.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

The windows, if raised, will lowerautomatically.

Push the ROOF switch forwardand hold it.

1.

2.

3. 4.

CONTINUED

Raising the Convertible Top

Convertible Top


ROOF SWITCH

The convertible top will raise.Release the ROOF switch when thetop reaches the windshield header.

Pull back on the locking lever andpush it up until it latches. Makesure it is securely latched.

While pushing the convertible topforward, push the locking leverforward and set the latch into thewindshield header.

Push in the tab on each lockinglever and pull the locking leverdown.

5.

6.

7.

Convertible Top


WINDSHIELD HEADER TAB LATCH

LOCKING LEVER

Operating the convertible topwhile any part of a passenger isin the way of the convertible topcan cause serious injury.

Make sure that you, yourpassenger or any other peoplearound the car are clear of theway of the moving convertibletop.

Do not put heavy items on the closedconvertible top. You can damage thematerial and the mechanism.

Use the convertible top cover whenthe top is folded to help preventforeign objects, dirt, etc. fromgetting into the material andmechanism.

Remove the convertible top coverfrom the trunk.

Connect the snaps on the topcover to the two pins on the backof the interior panel. Pull out thehead of each snap, put the snapover the pin, then release the head.

Connect the snap on the fastenerstring to the pin on each side wallof the passenger compartment.Pull out the head of each snap, putthe snap over the pin, then releasethe head.

1.

2.

3.

CONTINUED

Convertible Top Cover

Convertible Top


CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER

SNAP PIN

PIN

FASTENER STRING

Fit the rear part of the top coverinto the space behind theconvertible top.

To remove the top cover, reversethe attaching procedure.

Dust is the main cause of creaks orother sounds coming from theconvertible top.Regularly clean the body seals withglass cleaner and a soft cloth. Do notuse a scraper or de-icing chemicalsto remove frost, snow, or ice fromthe top or rear window.

Every three to six months,depending on how often the top isfolded, rub a thin film of Shin-EtsuSilicone grease (available from yourHonda dealer, P/N 08798-9013) ontothe seals wherever they touch theconvertible top or each other.

4.

5.

Convertible Top


Maintenance

78

Use the door pull to open andclose the door. Do not push or pullon the door glass.

Do not lean or sit on an open door.

The convertible top seals aredesigned to promote the flow ofwater off the roof. Spraying highpressure water directly on theseals can distort them, causing aleak. Use only a low pressurewater stream when using a hose,and avoid car washes.

Convertible Top


To reduce the possibility of leaks:

79

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.

Adjust the outside mirrors with theadjustment switch on the driver’sdoor armrest:

Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

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

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

1.

2.

Mirrors Adjusting the Power MirrorsHazard Warning

Hazard Warning, Mirrors


TAB

SELECTOR SWITCH

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

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.

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 ). If you try todrive the vehicle without releasingthe parking brake, the ABS indicatormay come on, and the ABS may notwork properly.

3.

4.

46

Parking Brake

Mirrors, Parking Brake


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

To open the beverage holder, pushon the front edge.

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

To use the accessory power socket,pull out on the cover. The ignitionswitch must be in ACCESSORY (I)or ON (II).

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

It will not power an automotive typecigarette lighter element.

To open the audio panel, push on thetop center and let the panel swingdown. To close, pivot the panel upand push on it until it latches. Referto page for operation of theaudio system.

94

Beverage Holder Accessory Power Socket Audio Panel

Beverage Holder, Accessory Power Socket, Audio Panel


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

In addition, when the three positionswitch is in the center position withboth doors closed, the two bulbs inthe interior light can be turned onseparately by the pushbuttonswitches next to them. Push theswitch to turn the light on or off.

If the three-position switch is in thecenter position, the interior light willcome on when you remove the keyfrom the ignition switch.

Interior Lights


84

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

The standard audio system hasmany features. This section de-scribes those features and how touse them. (If you selected anoptional audio system, refer to theoperating instructions that camewith it.)

.......................Heating and Cooling . 86...........What Each Control Does . 86

..............How to Use the System . 88............To Turn Everything Off . 93

Audio System......AM/FM/CD Audio System . 94

...................Operating the Radio . 95

...................Adjusting the Sound . 99..............................Digital Clock . 100

............Audio System Lighting . 102....................Radio Frequencies . 102

........................Radio Reception . 103.........Operating the CD Player . 105

.....Operating the CD Changer . 108.......Protecting Compact Discs . 109

....CD Player Error Indications . 111CD Changer Error

.............................Indications . 112................Remote Audio Controls . 113

............................Theft Protection . 114...............................Cruise Control . 115

Comfort and Convenience Features

Comfort and Convenience Features 85

Proper use of the Heating andCooling system can make theinterior dry and comfortable, andkeep the windows clear for the bestvisibility.

Pushing this lever up and downincreases and decreases the fanspeed. The indicators next to thelever show you the speed selected.

This button turns the air condi-tioning ON and OFF. The indicatorin the button lights when the A/C ison.

Turning this dial clockwise increasesthe temperature of the air flow.

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


Heating and Cooling

What Each Control Does

Recirculation Button

Fan Control Lever

Air Conditioning (A/C) Button

Temperature Control Dials

86

RECIRCULATIONBUTTON

AIR CONDITIONINGBUTTON

FAN CONTROL LEVER

MODE CONTROLDIAL

TEMPERATURECONTROL DIAL

Use the MODE control dial to selectthe vents the air flows from.

Air flows from the vents onboth sides of the instrument panel,and from the dashboard vent in frontof the passenger.

When you select , the systemautomatically switches to Fresh Airmode and turns on the A/C.

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

Air flows from the centervents in the dashboard above theaudio system, the vents on bothsides of the instrument panel, andfrom the floor vents. Select thisposition when you drive with theconvertible top folded.

Air flows from the floorvents and the vents on both sides ofthe instrument panel.

Air flow is divided betweenthe floor vents, the defroster vents atthe base of the windshield, and thevents on both sides of the instrumentpanel.

Air flows from the defrostervents at the base of the windshieldand the vents on both sides of theinstrument panel.

Heating and Cooling


Mode Control Dial

87

This section covers how to set up thesystem controls for ventilation,heating, cooling, dehumidifying, anddefrosting.

The engine must be running for theheater and air conditioning togenerate hot and cold air. The heateruses engine coolant to warm the air.If the engine is cold, it will be severalminutes before you feel warm aircoming from the system.The air conditioning does not rely onengine temperature.You can adjust the direction of the

air coming from the vents on bothsides of the instrument panel and atthe corner of the dashboard on thepassenger’s side. To adjust the airflow up and down, move the tab inthe center of each vent up and down.To adjust it left and right, turn thedial under each vent left and right.

You can shut off the air flow fromeach vent by turning the dial all theway toward the mark until itclicks.

Heating and Cooling


Vent Controls How to Use the System

88

CENTER VENT SIDE VENT

The outside air intakes for theheating and cooling system are atthe base of the windshield. Keepthese clear of leaves and otherdebris.

It is best to leave the system in FreshAir mode under almost all conditions.Keeping the system in Recirculationmode, particularly with the A/C off,can cause the windows to fog up.Switch to Recirculation mode whenyou are driving through smoky ordusty conditions, then switch back toFresh Air mode when the conditionclears.

Turn the temperature control dialall the way to the left.Make sure the A/C is off.Select and Fresh Air mode.Set the fan to the desired speed.

The flow-through ventilation systemdraws in outside air, circulates itthrough the interior, then exhausts itthrough vents behind the seat-backs.

1.

2.3.

CONTINUED

Heating and Cooling


Ventilation

89

RECIRCULATIONBUTTON


FAN CONTROL LEVER

MODE CONTROLDIAL


When the interior has cooled downto a more comfortable temperature,close the windows and set thecontrols as described for normalcooling.

Turn on the A/C by pressing thebutton. The light in the buttoncomes on when a fan speed isselected.Make sure the temperaturecontrol dial is all the way to the left.Select .If the outside air is humid, selectRecirculation mode. If the outsideair is dry, select Fresh Air mode.Set the fan to the desired speed.

If the interior is very warm frombeing parked in the sun, you can coolit down more rapidly by setting upthe controls this way:

Start the engine.Turn on the A/C by pressing thebutton. Make sure the tempera-ture control dial is all the way tothe left.Set the fan to maximum speed.Open the windows partially. Select

and Fresh Air mode.

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

) when driving in stop-and-gotraffic or climbing a long, steep hill.If it moves near the red mark, turnoff the A/C until the reading returnsto normal.

1.2.

3.4.

1.

2.

3.4.

49


Heating and Cooling

To Cool with A/C

90

RECIRCULATIONBUTTON


FAN CONTROL LEVER

MODE CONTROLDIAL


To warm the interior:Air conditioning, as it cools, removesmoisture from the air. When used incombination with the heater, itmakes the interior warm and dry.

To remove fog from the inside of thewindows:

This setting is suitable for all drivingconditions whenever the outsidetemperature is above 32°F (0°C).

Start the engine.Select and Fresh Air mode.Set the fan to the desired speed.Adjust the warmth of the air withthe temperature control dial. Set the fan to the desired speed.

Turn on the air conditioning.Select and Fresh Air mode.Adjust the temperature controldial so the mixture of heated andcooled air feels comfortable.

Switch the fan on.Select .When you select , thesystem automatically switches toFresh Air mode and turns on theA/C.Adjust the temperature controldial so the air flow from thedefroster vents feels warm.

When you switch to another modefrom , the A/C stays on.Press the A/C button to turn if off.

1.2.3.4.

1.2.3.4.

1.2.

3.

CONTINUED

Heating and Cooling


To Heat To Heat and Dehumidify with AirConditioning

To Defog and Defrost

91

To remove exterior frost or ice fromthe windshield and side windowsafter the vehicle has been sitting outin cold weather:

Start the engine.Select .When you select , thesystem automatically switches toFresh Air mode and turns on theA/C.Set the fan and temperaturecontrols to maximum.

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

1.2.

3.


Heating and Cooling

92

RECIRCULATIONBUTTON


FAN CONTROL LEVER

MODE CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

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

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

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

To shut off the system temporarily,turn off the fan (no lightsilluminated).

Heating and Cooling


To Turn Everything Off

93

Your Honda’s audio system providesclear reception on both AM and FMbands, while the preset buttons allowyou to easily select your favoritestations.

The anti-theft feature will disable thesystem if it is disconnected from thevehicle’s battery. To get the systemworking again, you must enter acode number (see page ).114

AM/FM/CD Audio System

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features94

AM/FM BUTTON

TUNE KNOB

SEEK BAR

STEREO INDICATOR

PWR/VOL KNOB

－－ The SEEK functionsearches the band for a station witha strong signal. To activate it, pressthe SEEK bar or , thenrelease it. Depending on which partof the SEEK bar you press, thesystem scans upward or downwardfrom the current frequency. It stopswhen it finds a station with a strongsignal.

The ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) tooperate the audio system. Turn thesystem on by pressing the PWR/VOL knob or the AM/FM button.Adjust the volume by turning theknob.

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

You can use any of five methods tofind radio stations on the selectedband: TUNE, SEEK, SCAN, AUTOSELECT, and the preset buttons.

Use the TUNE knob totune the radio to a desired frequency.Turn the TUNE knob to the right totune to a higher frequency, or to theleft to tune to a lower frequency.Turn the knob right or left until thedisplay reaches the desiredfrequency.

CONTINUED

Operating the Radio SEEKTUNE

Audio System


－

－

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 upthe band for a station with a strongsignal. When it finds one, it will stopand play that station forapproximately five seconds. If you donothing, the system will then scanfor the next strong station and playthat for five seconds. When it plays astation that you want to continuelistening to, press the SCAN buttonagain.

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

Audio System


SCAN

Preset

96

TUNE KNOB

AM/FM BUTTON STEREO INDICATOR

SCAN INDICATOR

SCAN BUTTON

PWR/VOL KNOB

SEEK/SKIP BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

AUTO SELECT BUTTON

To store a frequency:

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

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

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

Once a station’s frequency is stored,simply press and release the properPreset button to tune to it.The preset frequencies will be lost ifyour vehicle’s battery goes dead, isdisconnected, or the radio fuse isremoved.

Use the TUNE, SEEK, or SCANfunction to tune the radio to adesired station.

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CONTINUED

Audio System


AM/FM BUTTON

SEEK BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

TUNE KNOB

－ 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.

If you are in a remote area, AutoSelect may not find six strong AMstations or twelve strong FM stations.If this happens, you will see a ‘‘0’’displayed when you press any presetbutton that does not have a stationstored.

Auto Select does not erase thefrequencies that you preset pre-viously. When you return home, turnoff Auto Select by pressing theA. SEL button. The preset buttonswill then select the frequencies youoriginally set.

To activate Auto Select, press theA. SEL button. A. SEL will flash inthe display, and the system will gointo scan mode for several seconds.It automatically scans both bands,looking for stations with strongsignals. It stores the frequencies ofsix AM stations and twelve FMstations in the preset buttons. Youcan then use the preset buttons toselect those stations. If you do not like the stations Auto

Select has stored, you can storeother frequencies in the presetbuttons. Use the TUNE, SEEK, orSCAN function to find the desiredfrequencies, then store them in theselected preset buttons as describedpreviously.

AUTO SELECT


Audio System

98

AUTO SELECT INDICATOR

SEEK BAR

A. SEL BUTTON

TUNE KNOB

SCAN BUTTON

－

－－

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.

Bass, Treble, Balance, and Fader areeach adjustable. You select which ofthese you want to adjust by pressingthe TUNE knob. The mode changesfrom BAS to TRE to FAD to BAL,and then back to the selected audiomode, each time you press theTUNE knob. Each mode is shown inthe display as it changes.

Select BAL or FAD by pressing theTUNE knob. Adjust the Balance orFader to your liking by turning theTUNE knob. The displayed numbershows you the current setting. Whenthe adjustment level reaches thecenter, you will see ‘‘ ’’.

Because there are no rear speakers,you will not hear any sound from theaudio system if you adjust the faderto its full rear ( ) position. Use these modes to

adjust the tone to your liking. SelectTRE or BAS by pressing the TUNEknob. Adjust the desired mode byturning the TUNE knob. The

displayed number shows you thecurrent setting. When theadjustment level reaches the center,you will see ‘‘ ’’.

The system will automatically returnthe display to the selected audiomode about five seconds after youstop adjusting a mode with theMODE knob.

Adjusting the Sound

Balance/Fader

Treble/Bass

Audio System


ADJUSTMENT LEVEL

TUNE KNOB

The display of your audio systemusually shows the time when theignition switch is in ACCESSORY (I)or ON (II). It shows operation modeof radio, CD player, or optional CDchanger when you operate them, andgoes back to the time display afterfive seconds.

If an error occurs while operatingthe CD player or optional CDchanger, the display will show theerror code and will not switch to thetime display until the error iscorrected (see pages and ).111 112

Audio System


Digital Clock

100

TIME DISPLAY CLOCK BUTTON

H BUTTON

M BUTTON

R BUTTON

To set the hours, press the H (Preset4) button while pressing the CLOCK(SCAN/RPT) button. Press and holdthe H button until the hour advancesto the desired time.

To set the minutes, press the M(Preset 5) button while pressing theCLOCK (SCAN/RPT) button. Pressand hold the M button until theminutes numbers advance to thedesired time.

You can use the R (Preset 6) buttonto quickly set the time to the nearesthour. Press the R button whilepressing the CLOCK button. If thedisplayed time is before the halfhour, pressing R sets the clock backto the previous hour. If the displayedtime is after the half hour, pressingR sets the clock forward to thebeginning of the next hour.

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

If your car’s battery is disconnectedor goes dead, the time setting will belost. To set the time again, follow thesetting procedure.

Audio System


The audio system illuminates whenthe parking lights are on, even if theradio is turned off.

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.’’

Your Honda’s radio can receive thecomplete AM and FM bands.Those bands cover these frequen-cies:

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

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

Audio System Lighting Radio Frequencies

Audio System


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

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

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

Audio System


Radio Reception

103

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

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

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

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

Audio System


You operate the CD player with thesame controls used for the radio.

With the ignition switch inACCESSORY (I) or ON (II), insertthe disc into the CD slot. Push thedisc in halfway, the drive will pull itin the rest of the way and begin toplay. The number of the track that isplaying is shown in the display.

You can also play 3-inch (8-cm) discswithout using an adapter ring. Playonly standard round discs. Odd-shaped CDs may jam in the drive orcause other problems.

For best results when using CD-Rdiscs, use only high quality discslabeled for audio use. Whenrecording a CD-R, the recordingmust be closed in order for the discto be used by CD players. CD-RWdiscs will not work in this unit.

CONTINUED

Operating the CD Player

Audio System


RDM BUTTON

RANDOM INDICATOR

SEEK/SKIP BAR

PWR/VOL KNOB

AM/FM BUTTON

CD/TAPE BUTTON CD SLOT

REPEAT INDICATOR

RPT BUTTON

EJECT BUTTON

If you eject the disc, but do notremove it from the slot, the systemwill automatically reload the discafter 15 seconds and put the CDplayer in pause mode. To beginplaying the disc, press the CD button.

Press the eject button to remove thedisc from the drive.

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

You can switch to the radio while aCD is playing by pressing the AM/FM button. Press the CD button toreturn to playing the CD. The CDwill begin playing where it left off.

When the system reaches the end ofthe disc, it will return to the begin-ning and play the disc again.

You can use the SEEK/SKIP barwhile a disc is playing to selectpassages and change tracks.

To move rapidly within a track, pressand hold the SEEK/SKIP bar. Pressthe side to move forward. Youwill see CUE in the display. Press the

side to move backward. Youwill see REW displayed. Release thebar when the system reaches thepoint you want.

Each time you press and release theside of the SEEK/SKIP bar,

the system skips forward to thebeginning of the next track. Pressand release the side to skipbackward to the beginning of thecurrent track. Press it again to skipto the beginning of the previoustrack.

Audio System


－－To activate the Repeatfeature, press and release the RPTbutton. You will see RPT in thedisplay. The system continuouslyreplays the current track. Press theRPT button again to turn it off.

If the system is in Repeat mode, youmust turn it off by pressing the RPTbutton before selecting Random Play.

This feature,when activated, plays the tracks onthe CD in random order, rather thanin the order they are recorded on theCD. To activate Random Play, pressand release the RDM button. Youwill see RDM in the display. Thesystem will then select and playtracks randomly. This continuesuntil you deactivate Random Play bypressing RDM again.

REPEAT RANDOM PLAY

Audio System


－＋

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

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

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

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

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

For best results when using CD-Rdiscs, use only high quality discslabeled for audio use. Whenrecording a CD-R, the recordingmust be closed in order for the discto be used by CD players. CD-RWdiscs will not work in this unit.

To select a different disc, use thePreset 5 (DISC ) or Preset 6(DISC ) button. Press the Preset 6button to select the next disc in themagazine. Press the Preset 5 buttonto select the previous disc. If youselect an empty slot in the magazine,the changer will, after finding thatslot empty, try to load the CD in thenext slot. This continues until it findsa CD to load and play.

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

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

Operating the CD Changer(Optional)

Audio System


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

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.

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.

CONTINUED

Protecting Compact Discs

Audio System


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

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

Audio System


If you see an error indication in thedisplay while operating the CDplayer, find the cause in the chart tothe right. If you cannot clear theerror indication, take the vehicle toyour Honda dealer.

Indication SolutionCause

Press the EJECT button and pull out the disc.Check if the disc is inserted correctly in the CDplayer.Make sure the disc is not scratched or damaged.Press the EJECT button and pull out the disc.Check the disc for damage or deformation.If the CD cannot be pulled out or the errorindication does not disappear after the disc isejected, see your Honda dealer.Do not try to force the disc out of the player.Will disappear when the temperature returns tonormal.

FOCUS Error

Mechanical Error

High Temperature

CD Player Error Indications

Audio System


If you see an error indication in thedisplay while operating the CDchanger, find the cause in the chartto the right. If you cannot clear theerror indication, take the vehicle toyour Honda dealer.

Indication SolutionCause

Press the magazine eject button and pull outthe magazine, check for error indication. Insertthe magazine again. If the code does notdisappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,consult your Honda dealer.Insert CD.

Press the magazine eject button and pull outthe magazine, check for error indication. Insertthe magazine again. If the code does notdisappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out,consult your Honda dealer.Will disappear when the temperature returns tonormal.Insert CD magazine.

FOCUS Error

No CD in the CDmagazine

Mechanical Error

High Temperature

No CD magazine in theCD changer

CD Changer Error Indications

Audio System


Four controls for the audio systemare on the left side of the dashboardby the instrument panel. These letyou control basic functions withoutdistracting your attention fromdriving.

Use the VOLUME lever to adjust thevolume. Push the lever up toincrease the volume and down todecrease it. Hold the lever until thevolume reaches the desired level,then release it.

If you want to mute the soundtemporarily, push the MUTE button.The indicator in the button will lightto indicate the mute function is on.Press the button again to cancelMUTE.

The AUDIO CONTROL buttonchanges the mode. Pressing thebutton repeatedly selects AM, FM1,FM2, or CD (if a CD is loaded).

The CHANNEL button has twofunctions, depending on whether youare listening to the radio, or playing aCD.

If you are listening to the radio, usethe CHANNEL button to changestations. Each time you press thisbutton, the system advances to thenext preset station on the band youare listening to. You will see thenumber of the selected Preset buttonin the audio system display.

If you are playing a CD, the systemskips to the beginning of the nexttrack each time you push theCHANNEL button.

These controls work only with thefactory-installed audio system. Theywill not function if you install anyother system.


Remote Audio Controls

113

AUDIO CONTROLBUTTON

CHANNELBUTTON

MUTEBUTTON

VOLUMELEVER

If your car’s battery is disconnectedor goes dead, or the radio fuse isremoved, the audio system willdisable itself. If this happens, youwill see ‘‘Code’’ in the frequencydisplay the next time you turn on thesystem. Use the Preset buttons toenter the five-digit code. If it isentered correctly, the radio will startplaying.

If you make a mistake entering thecode, do not start over or try tocorrect your mistake. 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 forone hour before trying again.

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

Your car’s audio system will disableitself if it is disconnected fromelectrical power for any reason. Tomake it work again, the user 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 shouldhappen to lose the card, you mustobtain the code number from yourHonda dealer. To do this, you willneed the system’s serial number.


Theft Protection

114

Push in the Cruise Control MasterSwitch on the dashboard besidethe steering column. The indicatorby the switch will light.

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

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 forconditions such as city driving,winding roads, slippery roads, heavyrain, or bad weather. You shouldhave full control of the car underthose conditions.

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Using the Cruise Control

Cruise Control


Improper use of the cruisecontrol can lead to a crash.

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

The cruise control, as it operates,moves the accelerator pedal. You candamage your vehicle’s acceleratormechanism by resting your f oot underthe pedal and blocking the movement.

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

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

cruise control. To resume the setspeed, press the RESUME/accelbutton. The CRUISE CONTROLlight on the instrument panelcomes on.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.

Changing the Set Speed

Cruise Control


RESUME/accel

SET/decel

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

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

You can cancel the cruise control inany of these ways:

The system remembers thepreviously-set cruising speed. Toreturn to that speed, accelerate toabove 25 mph (40 km/h), then press

the RESUME/accel button. TheCRUISE CONTROL light comes on,and the car will accelerate to thesame cruising speed as before.

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

.

Press the Cruise Control MasterSwitch.

Press the SET/decel andRESUME/accel buttons at thesame time.

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

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

Cancelling the Cruise Control

Using theCruise Control


Cruise Control

117

118

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

.............................Break-in Period . 120.........................................Gasoline . 120

.........Service Station Procedures . 121................Filling the Fuel Tank . 121

....................Opening the Hood . 122...............................Oil Check . 123

.........Engine Coolant Check . 124...............................Fuel Economy . 125

............................Car Condition . 125...........................Driving Habits . 125

...Accessories and Modifications . 126................................Accessories . 126

............................Modifications . 127...Additional Safety Precaution . 127

.............................Carrying Cargo . 128.....................General Precautions . 131

Before Driving

Before Driving 119

During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapidacceleration. Do not exceed5,500 rpm for the first 600 miles(1,000 km) of operation.

Help assure your car’s futurereliability and performance by payingextra attention to how you driveduring the first 600 miles (1,000 km).

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

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

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

If you are unable to find premiumunleaded gasoline, you may substi-tute an unleaded regular gasoline.The engine will compensate for thelower octane, but you may notice aslight decrease in power as a result.

Your Honda is designed to operateon premium unleaded gasoline with apump octane number of 91 or higher.

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

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

Do not change the oil until therecommended time or mileageinterval shown in the maintenanceschedule.

Break-in Period

Gasoline

Before Driving

Break-in Period, Gasoline

120

Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.You may hear a hissing sound aspressure inside the tank escapes.Place the cap in the holder on thefuel fill door.

Because the fuel fill cap is on thedriver’s side of the car, park withthat side closest to the servicestation pumps.

Open the fuel fill door by pullingon the knob on the driver’s doorjamb.

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Filling the Fuel Tank

Service Station Procedures

Before Driving 121

Pull

FUEL FILL CAP

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.

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

releases the hood. Lift the hood.

If you can open the hood withoutlifting the hood latch handle, orthe hood latch handle movesstiffly or does not spring back asbefore, the mechanism should becleaned and lubricated (see page

).

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.

Shift to Neutral and set theparking brake. Pull the hoodrelease handle located under thelower left corner of the dashboard.The hood will pop up slightly.

Push the fuel fill door closed untilit latches.

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

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

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234


Before Driving

Opening the Hood

122

RELEASE HANDLE

Pull the support rod out of its clipand insert the end into the hole onthe front of the hood around thecenter.To close the hood, lift it up slightlyto remove the support rod fromthe hole. Put the support rod backinto its holding clip. Lower thehood to about a foot (30 cm) abovethe fender, then let it drop.After closing the hood, make sureit is securely latched.

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

Remove the dipstick (blackhandle).

Wipe the dipstick with a cleancloth or paper towel.

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CONTINUED

Oil Check


Before Driving 123

DIPSTICK

Insert it all the way back in its tube. 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.

Refer toon page for information

on checking other items in yourHonda.

3. 4.

161

159

165


Before Driving

Adding Oil

AddingEngine Coolant

Owner MaintenanceChecks

Engine Coolant Check

124

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

DIPSTICK RESERVE TANK

MAXMIN

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

Always drive in the highest gear thatallows the engine to run and acceler-ate smoothly.

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

combine several short trips into one.The condition of your car and yourdriving habits are the two mostimportant things that affect the fuelmileage you get.

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

Depending on traffic conditions, tryto maintain a constant speed. Everytime you slow down and speed up,your car uses extra fuel. Use thecruise control, when appropriate, toincrease fuel economy.

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

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

An important part of that mainte-nance is the

(see page ). Forexample, an underinflated tirecauses more ‘‘rolling resistance,’’which uses fuel. It also wears outfaster, so check the tire pressure atleast monthly.

159

Driving Habits

Car Condition

Owner MaintenanceChecks

Before Driving

Fuel Economy

125

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

If possible, have your dealer inspectthe final installation.

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

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

Before installing any accessory:

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

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

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

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

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

239

127

Accessories

Accessories and Modifications

Before Driving126

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

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

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

Some examples are:Lowering the vehicle with anaftermarket suspension kit thatsignificantly reduces groundclearance can allow theundercarriage to impact speedbumps or other raised objects,which could cause the airbags todeploy.

Raising the 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.

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

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

Removing parts from your vehicle,or replacing components with non-Honda (aftermarket) componentscould seriously affect your vehicle’shandling, stability, and reliability.

Modifications Additional Safety Precaution

Accessories and Modifications

Before Driving 127

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

The upper and lower consolecompartments are designed for small,lightweight items. The trunk isintended for larger, heavier items.

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

Before Driving

Carrying Cargo

128

UPPER AND LOWER CONSOLECOMPARTMENTS

TRUNK

×

－

The resulting figure equals theavailable amount of cargo andluggage load capacity.

The maximum load limit for your caris 400 lbs (185 kg). This figureincludes the total weight of alloccupants, cargo, and accessoriesweight.

Subtract the combined weight ofthe driver and passenger from 400lbs (185 kg).

For example, if there will be two 150lbs (70 kg) occupants in your car, theamount of available cargo andluggage load capacity is 100 lbs (45kg).2 150 lbs (70 kg) = 300 lbs (140kg)400 lbs (185 kg) 300 lbs (140 kg) =100 lbs (45 kg)

Following are the steps fordetermining the correct cargo andluggage load limit.

Locate the statement, ‘‘thecombined weight of occupants andcargo should never exceed 400 lbs(185 kg)’’ on your car’s placard (onthe driver’s doorjamb).

Determine the combined weightof the driver and passenger thatwill be riding in your car. (Two isthe seating capacity of your car.)

Determine the combined weightof accessories, luggage, and cargobeing loaded in the vehicle. Theweight may not safely exceed theavailable cargo and luggage loadcapacity calculated in step 4 [100lbs (45 kg) in this example].

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Load Limit

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving 129

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.

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

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

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

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving

Carrying Cargo in the TrunkCarrying Items in the PassengerCompartment

130

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

Because of the low-profile tiresfitted to your car, the alloy wheelsare closer to the ground. Drivingover a pothole or road debris attoo high a speed can seriouslydamage a wheel. Slow down underthese conditions.

Your Honda is designed to give youoptimum handling and performanceon well-maintained roads. As part ofthis design, your car has a minimumof ground clearance and very low-profile tires.

Curbs and steep inclines coulddamage the front and rearbumpers. Low curbs that do notaffect the average car may be highenough to hit the bumper on yourHonda. The front or rear bumpermay scrape when trying to driveonto an incline, such as a steepdriveway or trailer ramps.

Before Driving

General Precautions

131

132

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

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

Starting in Cold Weather....................at High Altitude . 136

....6-speed Manual Transmission . 137.....Recommended Shift Points . 138

..............Engine Speed Limiter . 138.......................Reverse Lockout . 138

...........................................Parking . 139.....................The Braking System . 140

.............Brake Wear Indicators . 140...............Brake System Design . 141

.......................Anti-lock Brakes . 141Important Safety

.........................Reminders . 142........................ABS Indicator . 143

...............Driving in Bad Weather . 144...........................Towing a Trailer . 145

Driving

Driving 133

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

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

Check the adjustment of the seat(see page ).

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

Fasten your seat belt. Check thatyour passenger has fastened his orher seat belt (see page ).

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

Start the engine (see page ).

Check the gauges and indicatorlights in the instrument panel (seepage ).Visually check the tires. If a tire

looks low, use a gauge to check itspressure.

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

Check that the hood and trunk arefully closed.

Make sure the doors are securelyclosed and locked.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

15

69

80

45

135

Driving

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. The ENGINE START buttonhas no effect unless the clutchpedal is depressed.

Turn the ignition key to ON (II)position.

Without touching the acceleratorpedal, push the ENGINE STARTbutton. If the engine does not startright away, do not hold theENGINE START button for morethan 15 seconds at a time. Pausefor at least 10 seconds beforetrying again.

If the engine still does not start,press the accelerator pedal all theway down and hold it there whilestarting in order to clear flooding.As before, hold the ENGINESTART button for no more than15 seconds. Return to step 6 if theengine does not start. If it starts,lift your foot off the acceleratorpedal so the engine does not race.

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

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Driving

Starting the Engine

135

ENGINE START BUTTON

An engine is harder to start in coldweather. The thinner air found athigh altitude above 8,000 feet(2,400 meters) adds to the problem.

Use the following procedure:

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

Push the accelerator pedal half-way to the floor and hold it therewhile starting the engine. Do nothold the ENGINE START buttonfor more than 15 seconds. Whenthe engine starts, release theaccelerator pedal gradually as theengine speeds up and smooths out.

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

1.

2.

3.

Starting the Engine

Driving

Starting in Cold Weather at HighAltitude (Above 8,000 feet/2,400 meters)

136

The manual transmission is synchro-nized in all forward gears for smoothoperation. It has a lockout so youcannot shift directly from Fifth toReverse instead of Sixth (see page

). When shifting up or down,make sure you push the clutch pedaldown all the way, shift to the nextgear, and let the pedal up gradually.When you are not shifting, do notrest your foot on the clutch pedal.This can cause your clutch to wearout faster.

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

When slowing down, you can getextra braking from the engine byshifting to a lower gear. This extrabraking can help you maintain a safespeed and prevent your brakes fromoverheating while going down asteep hill. Before downshifting,make sure engine speed will not gointo the tachometer’s red zone in thelower gear.

138

Driving

6-speed Manual Transmission

137

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:

Shift Up

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

Normal Acceleration

15 mph (24 km/h)25 mph (40 km/h)40 mph (64 km/h)47 mph (75 km/h)52 mph (83 km/h)

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.

With the clutch pedal depressed,move the shift lever to the Reverseside of the Neutral gate. Then pushthe shift lever down and shift toReverse.

The 6-speed manual transmissionhas a lockout so you cannotaccidentally shift from Fifth toReverse instead of Sixth.

Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter Reverse Lockout

6-speed Manual Transmission

Driving138

Place any packages, valuables, etc.,in the trunk or take them with you.

Turn off the lights.

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

If the car is facing uphill, turn thefront wheels away from the curb andput the transmission in first gear.If the car is facing downhill, turn thefront wheels toward the curb and putthe transmission in reverse gear.

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

Make sure the convertible top andthe windows are closed.

Lock the doors with the key or theremote transmitter.

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

Parking Tips

Parking

Driving 139

All four brakes have audible brakewear indicators.

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

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

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

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

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

Your Honda 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.

Brake Wear Indicators

The Braking System

Driving140

CONTINUED

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

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

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

Brake System Design Anti-lock Brakes

The Braking System

Driving 141

Front

this defeats thepurpose of the ABS. Let the ABSwork for you by always keeping firm,steady pressure on the brake pedalas you steer away from the hazard.This is sometimes referred to as

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

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

such as trying to take acorner too fast or making a suddenlane change. Always drive at a safe,prudent speed for the road andweather conditions.

itonly helps with steering controlduring braking. You should alwaysmaintain a safe following distancefrom other vehicles.

Always steer moderatelywhen you are braking hard. Severeor sharp steering wheel movementcan still cause your car to veer intooncoming traffic or off the road.

on loose oruneven surfaces, such as gravel orsnow, than a car without anti-lock.Slow down and allow a greaterdistance between cars under thoseconditions.

‘‘stomp and steer.’’

You should never pump thebrake pedal;

ABS will not prevent a skid thatresults from changing directionabruptly,

ABS does not reduce the time ordistance it takes to stop the car;

ABS cannot prevent a loss ofstability.

A car with ABS may require alonger distance to stop

Important Safety Reminders

The Braking System

Driving142

＊

＊

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

47

The Braking System

Driving

ABS Indicator

143

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEMINDICATOR

U.S. indicator shown

－－

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

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

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

Rain, fog, and snow conditionsrequire a different driving techniquebecause of reduced traction andvisibility. Keep your car well-maintained and exercise greatercaution when you need to drive inbad weather. The cruise controlshould not be used in theseconditions.

Always driveslower than you would in dryweather. It takes your car longer toreact, even in conditions that mayseem just barely damp. Applysmooth, even pressure to all thecontrols. Abrupt steering wheelmovements or sudden, hard appli-cation of the brakes can cause loss ofcontrol in wet weather. Be extracautious for the first few miles(kilometers) of driving while youadjust to the change in drivingconditions. This is especially true insnow. A person can forget somesnow-driving techniques during thesummer months. Practice is neededto relearn those skills. 91

Driving in Bad Weather

Driving

VisibilityDriving Technique

144

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

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

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

Be very cautious when passing, orbeing passed by other cars. Thespray from large cars reduces yourvisibility, and the wind buffeting cancause you to lose control.

Your car is not designed to tow atrailer. Attempting to do so can voidyour warranties.

Driving

Traction Towing a Trailer

Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer

145

146

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.

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

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

......................Maintenance Safety . 148.Important Safety Precautions . 149

.................Maintenance Schedule . 150...Required Maintenance Record . 157

.......Owner Maintenance Checks . 159..............................Fluid Locations . 160

......................................Engine Oil . 161..................................Adding Oil . 161

....................Recommended Oil . 161..............................Synthetic Oil . 162

....................................Additives . 162.....Changing the Oil and Filter . 163

.............................Cooling System . 165............Adding Engine Coolant . 165

.......Replacing Engine Coolant . 167....................Windshield Washers . 171

6-speed Manual Transmission...........................................Fluid . 172

..........................Differential Fluid . 173................Brake and Clutch Fluid . 174

............................Brake System . 174...........................Clutch System . 175

.....................Air Cleaner Element . 176....................................Hood Latch . 178

....................................Spark Plugs . 178..............................Replacement . 178............................Specifications . 180

...........................................Battery . 181.................................Wiper Blades . 184

..............Air Conditioning System . 186..................Dust and Pollen Filter . 187

.......................................Drive Belt . 188...............................................Tires . 189

......................................Inflation . 189..................................Inspection . 191

..............................Maintenance . 192.............................Tire Rotation . 192

...................................Tire Wear . 192...Replacing Tires and Wheels . 193

......................Wheels and Tires . 194..........................Winter Driving . 194

.............................Snow Tires . 195............................Tire Chains . 195

.............................................Lights . 196.....................Headlight Aiming . 198

........................Replacing Bulbs . 198...........................Storing Your Car . 206

267

Maintenance

Maintenance 147

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.

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

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

Maintenance

Maintenance Safety

148

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

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

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

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

Be surethere is adequate ventilationwhenever you operate the engine.

Let theengine and exhaust system coolbefore touching any parts.

Donot run the engine unless in-structed to do so.

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

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

Maintenance Safety

Maintenance

Important Safety Precautions

Carbon monoxide poisoningfrom engine exhaust.

Burns from hot parts.

Injury from moving parts.

149

Always use unleaded gasoline withthe proper octane rating (see page

).

The services and time or distanceintervals shown in the maintenanceschedule assume you will use yourcar as normal transportation for yourpassenger and possessions. Youshould also follow theserecommendations:

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

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

Operate your car on reasonableroads within the legal speed limit.

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

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

120

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance

Which Schedule to Follow:

150

＃

U.S. Cars:

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

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

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

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance

Maintenance, replacement orrepair of emissions controldevices and systems may be doneby any automotive repairestablishment or individual usingparts that are ‘‘certif ied’’ to EPAstandards.

151

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＃

＃

＃

Follow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule if thesevere driving conditionsspecified in the SevereConditions MaintenanceSchedule do not apply.

NOTE: If you onlydrive under a

‘‘severe’’ condition, you shouldfollow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule.

Follow the MaintenanceSchedule for Severe Conditions.

OCCASIONALLY

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

Maintenance152

Visually inspect the following items:

Service at the indicateddistance or time whichevercomes first.

miles x 1,000km x 1,000months

Replace every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 1 year

152412

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

304824

609648

10516884

7512060

457236

9014472

12019296

120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, then every 60,000 miles(96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Replace engine oilReplace engine oil filterCheck engine oil and coolantReplace air cleaner elementInspect valve clearanceReplace spark plugsInspect drive beltInspect idle speedReplace engine coolant

Replace transmission fluidReplace rear differential fluidInspect front and rear brakesReplace brake fluidCheck parking brake adjustmentReplace dust and pollen filterCheck tire inflation and condition

See information on maintenance and

emissions warranty, last column, page .

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

Adjust only if noisy

:

151

Main

tenance

Sch

edule

for

Norm

alC

onditi

ons

－

□□□□□□□□□□

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Maintenance 153

Canadian owners:

U.S. Owners

A, B, C

A

B

C

Follow the schedule for Severe Conditions.Refer to page to determine which schedule to use.

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

7,500 mi/12,000 km15,000 mi/24,000 km/1 yr22,500 mi/36,000 km30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs37,500 mi/60,000 km3 yrs45,000 mi/72,000 km/3 yrs52,500 mi/84,000 km60,000 mi/96,000 km/4 yrs67,500 mi/108,000 km75,000 mi/120,000 km/5 yrs82,500 mi/132,000 km6 yrs90,000 mi/144,000 km/6 yrs97,500 mi/156,000 km105,000 mi/168,000 km/7 yrs

112,500 mi/180,000 km120,000 mi/192,000 km/8 yrs

9 yrs120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs

Replace engine oil.Check tire inflation and condition.Replace engine oil filter.Inspect front and rear brakes.Check parking brake adjustment.Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots.Inspect suspension components.Inspect driveshaft boots.Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS).Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and checkfor leaks.Inspect exhaust system.Inspect fuel lines and connections.

Replace air cleaner element.Replace rear differential fluid.Replace dust and pollen filter.Inspect drive belt.

Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage).Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage).Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.

Inspect valve clearance.Check idle speed.Replace spark plugs.

Do items in A, B.Do items in A.

Replace transmission fluid.Do items in A, B, C.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage).Replace engine coolant, then replace every

60,000 mi/96,000 km/5 yrs.

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

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, lastcolumn, page .

:

Note:

152

151

Main

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ns

(listed

by

dista

nce

/time)

－

＊＃

＃＃

＊

Follow the Severe ConditionsMaintenance Schedule if youdrive your vehicleunder one or more of thefollowing conditions:

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

Follow the MaintenanceSchedule for Severe Conditions.

MAINLY

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

Maintenance154

Visually inspect the following items:

Replace every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months

Service at the indicateddistance or time whichevercomes first.

miles x 1,000km x 1,000months

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 monthsEvery 3 years (independent of mileage)

120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, then every 60,000 miles(96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and bootsSuspension components, Driveshaft bootsBrake hoses and lines (including ABS)All fluid levels and condition of fluidsExhaust system , Fuel lines and connectionsLights and controls, Vehicle underbody

152412

304824

457236

609648

7512060

9014472

10516884

12019296

See information on maintenance and

emissions warranty, last column, page .Refer to page for replacement information under special driving conditions.

Replace engine oil and oil filterCheck engine oil and coolantReplace air cleaner element

Inspect valve clearanceReplace spark plugsInspect drive beltInspect idle speedReplace engine coolant

Replace transmission fluidReplace rear differential fluidInspect front and rear brakesReplace brake fluidCheck parking brake adjustmentReplace dust and pollen filterLubricate all hinges, locks and latchesCheck tire inflation and condition

1 :

:

Adjust only if noisy

151187

Use normal schedule except in dusty conditions

1

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□□□□□□□□□

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□□□□□□□

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CONTINUEDMaintenance 155

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

A, B, C, D, E

A

B

C

D

E

Refer to page to determine which schedule to use.Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in as required for each distance/time.

3,750 mi/6,000 km7,500 mi/12,000 km11,250 mi/18,000 km15,000 mi/24,000 km/1 yr18,750 mi/30,000 km22,500 mi/36,000 km26,250 mi/42,000 km30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs33,750 mi/54,000 km37,500 mi/60,000 km41,250 mi/66,000 km3 yrs45,000 mi/72,000 km/3 yrs48,750 mi/78,000 km52,500 mi/84,000 km56,250 mi/90,000 km60,000 mi/96,000 km/4 yrs63,750 mi/102,000 km67,500 mi/108,000 km71,250 mi/114,000 km75,000 mi/120,000 km/5 yrs78,750 mi/126,000 km

Replace engine oil and filter.Inspect front and rear brakes.Check tire inflation and condition.Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots.Inspect suspension components.Inspect driveshaft boots.Replace air cleaner element.Check parking brake adjustment.Lubricate all hinges, locks and latches withmultipurpose grease.Replace rear differential fluid.Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS).Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and checkfor leaks.Inspect exhaust system.Inspect fuel lines and connections.

Check all lights.Inspect the underbody.Inspect drive belt.Replace dust and pollen filter .Replace transmission fluid.

Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C, D.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage).Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C, D, E.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.

1


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

See dust and pollen filter on page for replacement information under special drivingconditions.

Note:

1 :

:

187

151

154 Main

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Maintenance156

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


See dust and pollen filter on page for replacementinformation under special driving conditions.

1 :

:

NOTE:

187

151

82,500 mi/132,000 km86,250 mi/138,000 km6 yrs90,000 mi/144,000 km/6 yrs93,750 mi/150,000 km97,500 mi/156,000 km101,250 mi/162,000 km105,000 mi/168,000 km/7 yrs

108,750 mi/174,000 km112,500 mi/180,000 km116,250 mi/186,000 km120,000 mi/192,000 km/8 yrs9 yrs120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs

Do items in A, B.Do items in A.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage).Do items in A, B, C, D.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.

Inspect valve clearance.Check idle speed.Replace spark plugs.

Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C, D.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage).Replace engine coolant, then replace every

60,000 mi/96,000 km/5 yrs.

Main

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CONTINUEDMaintenance

Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

157

3,750 mi

7,500 mi

11,250 mi

15,000 mi

18,750 mi

22,500 mi

26,250 mi

30,000 mi

33,750 mi

37,500 mi

41,250 mi

45,000 mi

48,750 mi

52,500 mi

56,250 mi

60,000 mi

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

Signature or dealer stamp 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

6,000 km

12,000 km

18,000 km

24,000 km(or 1 year)

30,000 km

36,000 km

42,000 km

48,000 km(or 2 years)

54,000 km

60,000 km

66,000 km


78,000 km

84,000 km

90,000 km


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.

152154

Maintenance

Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

158

63,750 mi

67,500 mi

71,250 mi

75,000 mi

78,750 mi

82,500 mi

86,250 mi

90,000 mi

93,750 mi

97,500 mi

101,250 mi

105,000 mi

108,750 mi

112,500 mi

116,250 mi

120,000 mi

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

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

102,000 km

108,000 km

114,000 km


126,000 km

132,000 km

138,000 km


150,000 km

156,000 km

162,000 km


174,000 km

180,000 km

186,000 km


－

－

－

－－

－

You should check the followingitems at the specified intervals. Ifyou are unsure of how to performany check, turn to the page given.

Engine oil level Check everytime you fill the fuel tank. Seepage .

Windshield washer fluid Checkthe level in the reservoir monthly.If weather conditions cause you touse the washers frequently, checkthe reservoir each time you stopfor fuel. See page .

Tires Check the tire pressuremonthly. Examine the tread forwear and foreign objects. See page

.

Lights Check the operation ofthe headlights, parking lights,taillights, high-mount brake light,turn signals, brake lights, andlicense plate lights monthly. Seepage .

Engine coolant level Check theradiator reserve tank every timeyou fill the fuel tank. See page .

Brakes and clutch Check thefluid level monthly. See page .

123

124

171

174

189

196

Owner Maintenance Checks

Maintenance 159

Fluid Locations

Maintenance160

WASHER FLUID(Blue cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

CLUTCH FLUID(Gray cap)

BRAKE FLUID(Gray cap)

COOLANT RESERVOIR

To add oil, unscrew and remove theengine oil fill cap on top of the leftvalve cover. Pour in the oil, andreplace the engine oil fill cap.Tighten it securely. Wait a fewminutes and recheck the oil level. Donot fill above the upper mark; youcould damage the engine.

Make sure the API Certification Sealsays ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’

Pour the oil slowly and carefully soyou do not spill. Clean up any spillsimmediately. Spilled oil could

damage components in the enginecompartment.

Oil is major contributor to yourengine’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 foras long as you own it.

CONTINUED

Adding Oil

Recommended Oil

Engine Oil

Maintenance 161

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

－

An oil with a viscosity of 10W-30 ispreferred for optimum fuel economyand year-round protection in yourHonda. You may use a 5W-40 oil ifthe temperature in your area goesbelow 0°F ( 20°C).

The oil’s viscosity or weight isprovided on the container’s label.Select the oil for your car accordingto this chart.

You may use a synthetic motor oil ifit meets the same requirementsgiven for a conventional motor oil: itdisplays the API Certification Seal,and it is the proper weight as shownon the chart. When using syntheticoil, you must follow the oil and filterchange intervals given in themaintenance schedule.

Your Honda does not require any oiladditives. Additives may adverselyaffect your engine’s or transmission’sperformance and durability.

Engine Oil

Maintenance

Synthetic Oil Additives

162

Ambient Temperature

Always change the oil and filteraccording to the time and distance(miles/kilometers) recommenda-tions in the maintenance schedule.The oil and filter collect contami-nants that can damage your engine ifthey are not removed regularly.

Run the engine until it reachesnormal operating temperature,then shut it off.

Remove the engine oil fill cap.Remove the oil drain bolt from thebottom of the engine. Drain the oilinto an appropriate container.

Install a new oil filter according toinstructions that come with it.

Changing the oil and filter requiresspecial tools and access fromunderneath the car. The car shouldbe raised on a service station-typehydraulic lift for this service. Unlessyou have the knowledge and properequipment, you should have thismaintenance done by a skilledmechanic.

Remove the oil filter and let theremaining oil drain. A specialwrench (available from yourHonda dealer) is required toremove the filter.

1.

2. 3.

4.

CONTINUED

Changing the Oil and Filter

Engine Oil

Maintenance 163

WASHER OIL DRAIN BOLT OIL FILTER

Put a new washer on the drain bolt,then reinstall the drain bolt.Tighten it to:

Refill the engine with the recom-mended oil.

Engine oil change capacity(including filter):

Turn off the engine, let it sit forseveral minutes, then check the oillevel. If necessary, add oil to bringthe level to the upper mark on thedipstick.

Replace the engine oil fill cap.Start the engine. The oil pressureindicator light should go out withinfive seconds. If it does not, turn offthe engine and reinspect yourwork.

Let the engine run for severalminutes, then check the drain boltand oil filter for leaks.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Engine Oil

Maintenance164

33 lbf·ft (45 N·m , 4.6 kgf·m)

5.1 US qt (4.8 )

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 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.The coolant you add should alwaysbe a mixture of 50 percent antifreezeand 50 percent water. Never addstraight antifreeze or plain water.

If the reserve tank is completelyempty, you should also check thecoolant level in the radiator.

Make sure the engine and radiatorare cool.

Always use Honda All SeasonAntifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Thiscoolant is pre-mixed with 50 percentantifreeze and 50 percent water. Itdoes not require any additionalmixing.

If it is not available, you may useanother major-brand non-silicatecoolant as a temporary replacement.Make sure it is a high-quality coolantrecommended for aluminum engines.However, continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result incorrosion, causing the coolingsystem to malfunction or fail. Havethe cooling system flushed andrefilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

1.

CONTINUED

Adding Engine Coolant

Cooling System

Maintenance 165

RESERVE TANK

MAX MIN

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.

The coolant level should be up tothe base of the filler neck. Addcoolant if it is low.

Turn the radiator cap counter-clockwise, without pressing downon it, until it stops. This relievesany pressure remaining in thecooling system.

Remove the radiator cap bypushing down and turningcounterclockwise.

Pour coolant into the reserve tank.Fill it to halfway between the MAXand MIN marks. Put the cap backon the reserve tank.

Put the radiator cap back on.Tighten it fully.

Pour the coolant slowly andcarefully so you do not spill. Cleanup any spills immediately. Spilledcoolant could damage componentsin the engine compartment.

Do not add any rust inhibitors orother additives to your car’s coolingsystem. They may not be compatiblewith the coolant or engine compo-nents.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Cooling System

Maintenance166

RADIATOR CAP

RESERVE TANKFill up to here

FILLER NECK

Turn the ignition ON (II). Turnthe heater temperature controldial fully clockwise. Turn theignition off.

Open the hood. Make sure theengine and radiator are cool to thetouch.

Remove the radiator cap.

Loosen the drain plug on thebottom of the radiator. Thecoolant will drain through thesplash guard. Remove the drainbolt and washer from the engineblock.

The cooling system should becompletely drained and refilled withnew coolant according to the timeand distance recommendations inthe maintenance schedule. Only useHonda All season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2.

Draining the coolant requires accessto the underside of the car. Unlessyou have the tools and knowledge,you should have this maintenancedone by a skilled mechanic. 1.

2.

3.

4.

CONTINUED

Replacing Engine Coolant

Cooling System

Maintenance 167

DRAIN BOLT

DRAIN PLUG

Remove the reserve tank from itsholder by pulling it straight up.Drain the coolant, then put thetank back in its holder.

When the coolant stops draining,tighten the drain plug at thebottom of the radiator.Apply non-hardening sealant to thedrain bolt threads, put a newwasher on the drain bolt, andreinstall the bolt in the engineblock. Tighten it securely.Tightening torque:

Loosen the bleeder bolt on top ofthe engine, and remove thebleeder cap near the engine oil fillcap.

5.

6.

7.

Cooling System

Maintenance168

RESERVE TANK CAP

HOLDER RESERVE TANK

BLEEDER BOLT

61 lbf·ft (83 N·m , 8.5 kgf·m)

CONTINUED

Fill the reserve tank to the MAXmark. Install the reserve tank cap.

Install the radiator cap, andtighten it to the first stop.

Start the engine and let it run untilthe radiator fan comes on twotimes. Then stop the engine.

Pour Honda All SeasonAntifreeze/Coolant Type 2 intothe radiator up to the base of thefiller neck. This coolant is amixture of 50 percent antifreezeand 50 percent water. Pre-mixingis not required.

Pour coolant into the radiator upto the base of the filler neck.

Start the engine and let it run forabout 30 seconds. Then turn offthe engine.

Tighten the bleeder bolt andreinstall the bleeder cap whencoolant comes out in a steadystream with no bubbles.

The cooling system capacity is:

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

8.

Cooling System

Maintenance 169

BLEEDER CAP Fill up to here

FILLER NECK

RESERVE TANK

1.72 US gal (6.5 )

Remove the radiator cap.

Pour coolant into the radiator upto the base of the filler neck andinto the reserve tank up to theMAX mark.

Start the engine and hold it at1,500 rpm until the radiator fancomes on. Turn off the engine.Check the coolant level in theradiator and add coolant if needed.

Install the radiator cap, andtighten it fully.

If necessary, fill the reserve tankto the MAX mark. Install thereserve tank cap.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

Cooling System

Maintenance170

Check the level in the windshieldwasher reservoir at least monthlyduring normal usage. In bad weather,when you use the washers often,check the level every time you stopfor fuel.

Fill the reservoir with a good-qualitywindshield washer fluid. Thisincreases the cleaning capability andprevents freezing in cold weather.

The windshield washer reservoir islocated in the rear of the enginecompartment on the passenger’s side.

Check the reservoir’s fluid level byremoving the cap and looking at thelevel gauge attached to the cap.

When you refill the reservoir, cleanthe edges of the windshield wiperblades with windshield washer fluidon a clean cloth. This will help tocondition the blade edges.

Windshield Washers

Maintenance 171

RESERVOIR CAP

Do not use engine antif reeze or avinegar/water solution in thewindshield washer reservoir.

Antif reeze can damage your car’s paint,while a vinegar/water solution candamage the windshield washer pump.

Use only commercially-availablewindshield washer f luid.

The transmission should be drainedand refilled with new fluid accordingto the time and distance recommen-dations in the maintenance schedule.

Check the fluid level with thetransmission at normal operatingtemperature and the car sitting onlevel ground. Remove thetransmission filler bolt and carefullyfeel inside the bolt hole with yourfinger. The fluid level should be upto the edge of the bolt hole. If it isnot, add Honda Manual Transmis-sion Fluid (MTF) until it starts torun out of the hole. Reinstall thefiller bolt and tighten it securely.

If Honda MTF is not available, youmay use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40viscosity motor oil with the APICertification seal that says ‘‘FORGASOLINE ENGINES’’ as atemporary replacement. However,motor oil does not contain the properadditives and continued use cancause stiffer shifting. Replace assoon as it is convenient.

Maintenance

6-speed Manual Transmission Fluid

172

CORRECT LEVEL

FILLER BOLT

Put a new washer on the filler bolt,then reinstall the filler bolt. Tightenit securely. Tightening torque:

The differential should be drainedand refilled with new fluid accordingto the time and distancerecommendations in themaintenance schedule.Check the fluid level with the

differential at normal operatingtemperature and the vehicle sittingon level ground. Remove thedifferential fluid filler bolt andwasher and carefully feel inside thebolt hole with your finger. The fluidlevel should be up to the edge of thebolt hole. If it is not, slowly add fluiduntil it starts to run out of the hole.

Use an SAE 90 viscosity hypoid gearoil, API service classified GL5 orGL6 only, in the differential.

Maintenance

Differential Fluid

173

CORRECT LEVEL

FILLER BOLT

33 lbf·ft (45 N·m , 4.6 kgf·m)

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.

Check the fluid level in the reser-voirs monthly. There are two reser-voirs. They are:

Brake fluid reservoirClutch fluid reservoir

The brake fluid should be replacedaccording to the time recommenda-tion in the maintenance 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. However, the use ofany non-Honda brake fluid can causecorrosion and decrease the life of thesystem. Have the brake systemflushed and refilled with HondaHeavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 assoon as possible.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is notcompatible with your car’s brakingsystem and can cause extensivedamage.

Brake System

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Maintenance174

MAX

MIN

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.

Maintenance

Clutch System

Brake and Clutch Fluid

175

MAX

MIN

To replace it:

Follow the replacement procedurefor removal and reinstallation.

Unsnap the six clamps holding theair cleaner housing cover.

Remove the air cleaner housingcover. Disconnect the air intakeduct from the air cleaner element.

Remove the old air cleanerelement.

Carefully clean the inside of theair cleaner housing with a damprag.

The air cleaner element should bereplaced according to the time anddistance recommendations in themaintenance schedule.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Replacement

Air Cleaner Element

Maintenance176

CLAMPS AIR CLEANER ELEMENT

Attach the new air cleanerelement to the duct. Install thenew air cleaner element in the aircleaner housing. Make sure thepin on the edge of the element fitsin the hole in the bottom of thehousing.

Reinstall the air cleaner housingcover, snap the six clamps backinto place.

5.

6.

Air Cleaner Element

Maintenance 177

The spark plugs in your car are aspecial platinum-tipped design forlonger life. They only need to bereplaced every 7 years or 105,000miles (168,000 km), whichevercomes first.

Clean the hood latch assembly with amild cleaner, then lubricate it with amultipurpose grease. Lubricate allthe moving parts (as shown),including the pivot. Follow the timeand distance recommendations inthe Maintenance Schedule. If youare not sure how to clean and greasethe latch, contact your Honda dealer.

Clean off any dirt and oil that havecollected around the ignition coils.

Remove the four hexagon sockethead cap bolts holding the ignitioncoil cover.

1.

2.

ReplacementSpark PlugsHood Latch

Maintenance

Hood Latch, Spark Plugs

178

PIVOTS

Put the new spark plug into thesocket, then screw it into the hole.Screw it in by hand so you do notcrossthread it.

Torque the spark plug. (If you donot have a torque wrench, tightenthe spark plug two-thirds of a turnafter it contacts the cylinder head.)Tightening torque:

Remove the bolt holding theignition coil and pull the ignitioncoil straight up slightly.Disconnect the ignition coilconnector by pushing the tab andpulling the connector back.Pull the ignition coil all the way up.

Remove the spark plug witha five-eighths inch (16 mm) sparkplug socket.

3.

4.

5. 6.

CONTINUED

Spark Plugs

Maintenance 179

18 lbf·ft (25 N·m , 2.5 kgf·m)

＋－

Repeat this procedure for theother three spark plugs.

Install the ignition coil. Reinstallthe bolt.

Reinstall the cover on the cylinderbank. Reinstall the four hexagonsocket head cap bolts.

Spark Plug Gap:

7.

8.

9.

NGK:DENSO:

Spark Plugs

Maintenance

Specifications:

180

PK22PR-L11SPFR7G-11S

0.04 in (1.1 mm) 00.1 mm

Tighten the spark plugs caref ully. Aspark plug that is too loose canoverheat and damage the engine.Overtightening can cause damage tothe threads in the cylinder head.

Check the battery condition bylooking at the test indicator windowon the battery. The label on thebattery explains the test indicator’scolors.

Check the battery terminals forcorrosion (a white or yellowishpowder). To remove it, cover theterminals with a solution of bakingsoda and water. It will bubble up andturn brown. When this stops, wash itoff with plain water. Dry off thebattery with a cloth or paper towel.Coat the terminals with grease tohelp prevent future corrosion.

Check the condition of your car’sbattery monthly. You should checkthe color of the test indicator window,and for corrosion on the terminals.

Battery posts,terminals, and related accessoriescontain lead and lead compounds.

CONTINUED

Battery

Maintenance

WARNING:

Wash hands after handling.

181

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

－

If the terminals are severely cor-roded, clean them with baking sodaand water. Then use a wrench toloosen and remove the cables fromthe terminals. Always disconnect thenegative ( ) cable first and recon-nect it last. Clean the battery termi-nals with a terminal cleaning tool orwire brush. Reconnect and tightenthe cables, then coat the terminalswith grease.

If you need to connect the battery toa charger, disconnect both cables toprevent damage to the car’selectrical system.

Battery

Maintenance182

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 your car’s battery is disconnectedor goes dead, the audio system willdisable itself. The next time you turnon the radio you will see ‘‘ ’’ inthe frequency display. Use thePreset buttons to enter the five-digitcode (see page ).114

Battery

Maintenance 183

Charging the battery with the cablesconnected can seriously damage yourcar’s electronic controls. Detach thebattery cables bef ore connecting thebattery to a charger.

To replace the blade: 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.

Raise the wiper arm off thewindshield.

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.

1.

2.

Wiper Blades

Maintenance184

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 metal rein-forcement along the back edge,remove the metal reinforcementstrips from the old wiper blade andinstall them in the slots along theedge of the new blade.

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.

3. 4.

5.

6.

7.

Wiper Blades

Maintenance 185

BLADE

REINFORCEMENT

Run the air conditioning at least oncea week during the cold weathermonths. Run it for at least tenminutes while you are driving at asteady speed with the engine atnormal operating temperature. Thiscirculates the lubricating oil con-tained in the refrigerant.

If the air conditioning does not get ascold as before, have your dealercheck the system. Recharge thesystem with Refrigerant HFC-134a(R-134a). (See Specifications on page

.)

Your car’s air conditioning is a sealedsystem. Any major maintenance,such as recharging, should be doneby a qualified mechanic. You can doa couple of things to make sure theair conditioning works efficiently.

Periodically check the engine’sradiator and air conditioningcondenser for leaves, insects, anddirt stuck to the front surface. Theseblock the air flow and reduce coolingefficiency. Use a light spray from ahose or a soft brush to remove them.

251

Air Conditioning System

Maintenance186

AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER

Whenever you have the air conditioningsystem serviced, make sure the servicef acility uses a ref rigerant recyclingsystem. This system captures theref rigerant f or reuse. Releasingref rigerant into the atmosphere candamage the environment.

The condenser and radiator f ins bendeasily. Only use a low-pressure sprayor sof t-bristle brush to clean them.

Open the hood. Unclip thewindshield base by pulling it up.

Put the pins on the windshieldbase into their mating holes on thesupport, and push the base downuntil the pins snap in.

Remove the old filter. Put a newfilter in the holder and push it inuntil it locks.

The dust and pollen filter is locatedin the engine compartment on thepassenger’s side near the base of thewindshield.

Push the tab on the dust andpollen filter to unlock it from theholder.

This filter should be replaced every30,000 miles (48,000 km) undernormal conditions. It should bereplaced every 15,000 miles (24,000km) if you drive primarily in urbanareas that have high concentrationsof soot in the air from industry anddiesel-powered vehicles. Replace itmore often if air flow from theclimate control system becomes lessthan usual. Have the dust and pollenfilter replaced by your Honda dealer.

The dust and pollen filter removespollen and dust from the outside air,The heating and cooling systembrings air into the interior. It shouldbe replaced according to the timeand distance recommendations inthe maintenance schedule.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Maintenance

Replacement

Dust and Pollen Filter

187

You should check the condition ofthe drive belt every 2 years. Examinethe edges of belt for cracks orfraying.

An auto-tensioner adjusts the tensionof the drive belt. The pointer on theauto-tensioner should be within therecessed area of the indicator. If thepointer is not within the recessedarea, contact your Honda dealer.

Maintenance

Drive Belt

Auto-tensioner

188

INDICATOR AUTO-TENSIONER

POINTER

CONTINUED

Keeping the tires properly inflatedprovides the best combination ofhandling, tread life, and ridingcomfort. Underinflated tires wearunevenly, adversely affect handlingand fuel economy, and are morelikely to fail from being overheated.Overinflated tires can make your carride more harshly, are more prone todamage from road hazards, and wearunevenly.

To safely operate your car, your tiresmust be the proper type and size, ingood condition with adequate tread,and correctly inflated. The followingpages give more detailed informationon how and when to check airpressure, how to inspect your tiresfor damage and wear, and what to dowhen your tires need to be replaced.

We recommend that you visuallycheck your tires every day. If youthink a tire might be low, check itimmediately with a tire gauge.

Inflation

Maintenance

Tires

189

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.

Use a gauge to measure the airpressure at least once a month. Eventires that are in good condition maylose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month.Remember to check the spare tire atthe same time you check all theother tires.

Front:

Rear:

Check the pressure in the tires whenthey are cold. This means the carhas been parked for at least threehours. If you have to drive the carbefore checking the tire pressure,the tires can still be considered‘‘cold’’ if you drive less than 1 mile(1.6 km).

If you check the pressure when thetires are hot [the car has been drivenseveral miles (kilometers)], you willsee readings 4 to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa,0.3 to 0.4 kgf/cm ) higher than thecold reading. This is normal. Do notlet air out to match the specified coldpressure. The tire will beunderinflated.

The compact spare tire pressure is:

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.

The following chart shows therecommended cold tire pressures formost normal driving conditions andspeeds. Tire pressures for highspeed driving are the same as fornormal driving.

Add or release air, if needed, tomatch the recommended cold tirepressures on this page.

For convenience, the recommendedtire sizes and cold air pressures areon a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

For additional technical informationabout your tires, see page .252

Tire Size Cold Tire Pressurefor Normal Driving

Tire Size Cold Tire Pressurefor Normal Driving

Tires

Maintenance

Recommended Tire Pressures forNormal Driving

190

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

205/55R16 89W 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2kgf/cm )

225/50R16 92W 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2kgf/cm )

Tubeless tires have some ability toself-seal if they are punctured.However, because leakage is oftenvery slow, you should look closelyfor punctures if a tire starts losingpressure.

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.Your car’s tires have wear indicatorsmolded into the tread. When thetread wears down to that point, youwill see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wideband running across the tread. Thisshows there is less than 1/16 inch(1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. Atire that is this worn gives very littletraction on wet roads. You shouldreplace the tire if you can see thetread wear indicator in three or moreplaces around the tire.

Inspection

Tires

Maintenance 191

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

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.

The tires were properly balanced bythe factory. They may need to berebalanced at some time before theyare worn out. Have your dealercheck the tires if you feel a consis-tent vibration while driving. A tireshould always be rebalanced if it isremoved from the wheel for repair.

Make sure the installer balances thewheels when you have new tiresinstalled. This increases ridingcomfort and tire life. Your car’soriginal tires were dynamic or ‘‘spin’’balanced at the factory. For bestresults, have the installer perform adynamic balance.

You should not rotate your Honda’stires. The front and rear tires aredifferent sizes, so they cannot berotated front-to-rear. The original-equipment tires on your Honda havea unidirectional tread pattern, sothey cannot be rotated side-to-side.

The tires that came on your car weredesigned and constructed to providesuperior grip during acceleration,braking, and cornering. As a trade-off, they will wear more rapidly thantires used on ordinary passengercars. Because of the car’s weightdistribution, and the fact that theyare the driving wheels, you mayexpect the rear tires to wear morerapidly than the front tires.

Maintenance Tire Rotation

Tire Wear

Tires

Maintenance192

Improper wheel weights can damageyour vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Useonly genuine Honda wheel weights f orbalancing.

CONTINUED

The tires that came with your carwere selected to match the perform-ance capabilities of the car whileproviding the best combination ofhandling, ride comfort, and long life.You should replace them with radialtires of the same size, load range,speed rating, and maximum cold tirepressure rating (as shown on thetire’s sidewall). Mixing radial andbias-ply tires on your car can reduceits braking ability, traction, andsteering accuracy. It is best to replace all four tires at

the same time. If that is not possibleor necessary, then replace the twofront tires or the two rear tires as apair. Replacing just one tire canseriously affect your car’s handling.

You should carefully inspect yourcar’s tires for wear, damage, andproper inflation every 7,500 miles(12,000 km) (see page ).189

Replacing Tires and Wheels

Tires

Maintenance 193

Installing improper tires on yourcar can affect handling andstability. This can cause a crashin which you can be seriouslyhurt or killed.

Always use the size and type oftires recommended in thisowner’s manual.

＋Wheels:Front:

Rear:

Tires:Front:

Rear:

The ABS works by comparing thespeed of the wheels. When replacingtires, use the same size originallysupplied with the car. Tire size andconstruction can affect wheel speedand may cause the system to work in-consistently.

If you ever need to replace a wheel,make sure the wheel’s specificationsmatch those of the original wheelthat came on your car. Replacementwheels are available at your Hondadealer.

See page for information aboutDOT Tire Quality Grading.

Tires that are marked ‘‘M S’’ on thesidewall have an all-weather treaddesign. They should be suitable formost winter driving conditions. Tireswithout these markings are designedfor optimum traction in dryconditions. They may not provideadequate performance in winterdriving.

For the best performance in snowyor icy conditions, you should installsnow tires or tire chains. They maybe required by local laws undercertain conditions.

252

Winter DrivingWheels and Tires

Tires

Maintenance194

16 x 7 1/2 JJ

16 x 6 1/2 JJ

205/55R16 89W

225/50R16 92W

If you mount snow tires on yourHonda, make sure they are radialtires of the same size and load rangeas the original tires. Mount snowtires on all four wheels to balanceyour vehicle’s handling in all weatherconditions. Keep in mind the tractionprovided by snow tires on dry roadsmay not be as high as your vehicle’soriginal equipment tires. You shoulddrive cautiously even when the roadsare clear. Check with the tire dealerfor maximum speed recommenda-tions.

Because your Honda has limited tireclearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’cable-type traction devices on therear tires. Use traction devices onlywhen required by driving conditionsor local laws. Make sure they are thecorrect size for your tires.

Metal link-type ‘‘chains’’ should notbe used. No matter how tight theyseem to be installed, they can comeinto contact with the body andsuspension, causing serious damage.

When installing cables, follow themanufacturer’s instructions andmount them as tightly as you can.Drive slowly with them installed. Ifyou hear them coming in contactwith the body or chassis, stop andinvestigate. Make sure the cables areinstalled tightly, and that they arenot contacting the brake lines orsuspension. Remove them as soon asyou begin driving on cleared roads.

Snow Tires Tire Chains

Tires

Maintenance 195

Cables that are the wrong size orimproperly installed can damage yourcar’s brake lines, suspension, body, andwheels. Stop driving if they are hittingany part of the car.

Check the operation of your car’sexterior lights at least once a month.A burned out bulb can create anunsafe condition by reducing yourcar’s visibility and the ability tosignal your intentions to otherdrivers.

Maintenance

Lights

196

SIDE TURN SIGNAL LIGHT

TURN SIGNAL

FRONT PARKING ANDSIDE MARKER LIGHT

LOW BEAMHEADLIGHT

HIGH BEAMHEADLIGHT

Check the following:

Headlights (low and high beam)Parking lightsTaillightsBrake lightsTurn signalsBack-up lightsHazard light functionLicense plate lightSide marker lightsDaytime running lights(Canadian cars)

If you find any bulbs are burned out,replace them as soon as possible.Refer to the chart on page todetermine what type of replacementbulb is needed.

251

Maintenance

Lights

197

TURN SIGNAL LIGHT

SIDE MARKER LIGHT

STOP/TAILLIGHT

BACK-UP LIGHT

LICENSE PLATE LIGHT

Halogen bulbs are used for the highbeam headlight bulbs. Whenreplacing a high beam headlight bulb,handle it by its base and protect theglass from contact with your skin orhard objects. If you touch the glass,clean it with denatured alcohol and aclean cloth.

The low beam headlight bulbs are atype of high voltage discharge tube.High voltage can remain in thecircuit even with the light switch offand the key removed. Because ofthis, you should not attempt toexamine or change a low beamheadlight bulb yourself. If a lowbeam headlight bulb fails, take thecar to your dealer to have it replaced.

The headlights were properly aimedwhen your car was new. If youregularly carry heavy items in thetrunk, readjustment may be required.Adjustment of the headlights shouldbe performed by a Honda technicianor other qualified mechanic.

Lights

Maintenance

Replacing a Headlight BulbHeadlight Aiming

198

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hotwhen lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratchon the glass can cause the bulb tooverheat and shatter.

Open the hood.

Remove the electrical connectorfrom the bulb by squeezing theconnector to unlock the tab, thenslide the connector off the bulb.

Remove the rubber weather sealby pulling on the tab.If you need to change the high

beam headlight bulb on the leftside, remove the coolant reservetank from its holder by pulling itstraight up.

Unclip the end of the hold-downwire from its slot. Pivot it out ofthe way and remove the bulbsocket.

Install the rubber seal over theback of the headlight assembly.Make sure it is right side up; it ismarked ‘‘TOP.’’

Insert the socket back into theheadlight assembly. Make surethe bulb is installed correctly bylooking through the headlight lens.The pins on the base of the bulbshould fit in the holes in theheadlight assembly. Pivot the hold-down wire back in place and clipthe end into the slot.

Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket. Push the new bulb straightinto the socket until it bottoms.

Push the electrical connector ontothe new bulb. Turn on theheadlights to test the new bulb.

(Left side)Reinstall the radiator reserve tank.

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Lights

Maintenance 199

If you are changing the bulb onthe driver’s side, start the engine,turn the steering wheel all the wayto the right, and turn off theengine. If you are changing thebulb on the passenger’s side, turnthe steering wheel to the left.

Pull the inner fender cover back.

Remove the socket from theheadlight assembly by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket.

Install the new bulb in the socket.

Insert the socket back into theheadlight assembly. Turn itclockwise to lock it in place.

Test the lights to make sure thenew bulb is working.

Use a flat-tipped screwdriver toremove the three holding clipsfrom the inner fender.

Put the inner fender cover in place.Install the three holding clips.Lock each clip in place by pushingon the center.

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Lights

Maintenance

Replacing Front Turn Signal andSide Marker Light Bulbs

200

Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket.Push the new bulb straight intothe socket until it bottoms.

Put the bulb holder back into itshole in the lens, and turn itclockwise until it locks.


Use a small flat blade screwdriverto pry carefully on the back edgeof the side turn signal assemblyuntil it pops out of the body.

Put the side turn signal assemblyback into the body, front first.Push on the back edge until itsnaps into place.

Turn the bulb holder one-quarterturn counterclockwise to remove itfrom the lens.

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Lights

Maintenance

Replacing a Side Turn Signal Bulb

201

Open the trunk. Determine which of the four bulbsis burned out: stop/taillight, back-up light, turn signal, or sidemarker.

Remove the socket by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Remove the fasteners from thetrunk lining. To remove a fastener,push on the center of the headuntil it pops in. Then pull it out.

Pull the lining back.

Remove the burned out bulb. Toremove the stop/taillight, back-upor side marker light bulb, pull thebulb straight out of its socket. Toremove the turn signal light bulb,push it in and turn itcounterclockwise until it unlocks.

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Lights

Maintenance

Replacing Rear Bulbs

202

Install the new bulb in the socket.


Push the socket into the lightassembly and turn it clockwiseuntil it locks.

Install the trunk lining and secureit with the fasteners. To reinstall afastener, reset the fastener bypushing on the pointed end until itpops back almost flush with thefingers on the housing. Put thefastener in the hole of the trunklining and push on the center untilit locks (the center is flush withthe head).

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Lights

Maintenance 203

Insert a flat-tipped screwdriverbetween the left edge of the lensand the housing. The lens willcome down.

Put the lens back into the lightassembly, right side first. Push onthe left edge until it snaps intoplace.


Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket. Push the new bulb in untilit bottoms in the socket.

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Lights

Maintenance

Replacing a Rear License PlateBulb

204

Open the trunk. Pull down thetrunk light cover.

Remove the bulb by pulling itstraight out of its metal tabs.

Push the new bulb into the metaltabs.

Push the cover back in place.

Remove the lens by carefullyprying on the front edge of thelens near both sides.

Remove the bulb by pulling itstraight out of its metal tabs.

Push the new bulb into the metaltabs. Snap the lens back in place.

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Lights

Maintenance

Replacing the Trunk Light BulbReplacing an Interior Light Bulb

205

Block the rear wheels.

Disconnect the battery.

If possible, run the engine for awhile periodically (preferably oncea month).

Support the front wiper bladearms with a folded towel or rag sothey do not touch the windshield.

To minimize sticking, apply asilicone spray lubricant to all doorand trunk seals. Also, apply avehicle body wax to the paintedsurfaces that mate with the doorand trunk seals.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter(see page ).

Wash and dry the exteriorcompletely.

Clean the interior. Make sure thecarpeting, floor mats, etc. arecompletely dry.

If you need to park your car for anextended period (more than onemonth), there are several things youshould do to prepare it for storage.Proper preparation helps preventdeterioration and makes it easier toget your car back on the road. Ifpossible, store your car indoors.

If the car is to be stored for alonger period, it should besupported on jackstands so thetires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (ifthe car is being stored indoors).

Cover the car with a ‘‘breathable’’cover, one made from a porousmaterial such as cotton.Nonporous materials, such asplastic sheeting, trap moisture,which can damage the paint.

If you store your car for 12 monthsor longer, have your Honda dealerperform the inspections called for inthe 24 months/30,000 miles (48,000km) maintenance schedule as soonas you take it out of storage (seepage ). The replacements calledfor in the maintenance schedule arenot needed unless the car hasactually reached that time or mileage.

Raise the convertible top cover.

Leave the parking brake off. Putthe transmission in Reverse.

163

152

Maintenance

Storing Your Car

206

Regular cleaning and polishing ofyour Honda helps to keep it ‘‘new’’looking. This section gives you hintson how to clean your car andpreserve its appearance: the paint,brightwork, wheels and interior. Alsoincluded are several things you cando to help prevent corrosion.

.................................Exterior Care . 208.....................................Washing . 208

.......................................Waxing . 209....................Aluminum Wheels . 210

..........................Paint Touch-up . 210..................................Interior Care . 211...................................Carpeting . 211.................................Floor Mats . 211

.........................................Fabric . 212...........................................Vinyl . 212

.......................................Leather . 212...................................Seat Belts . 212....................................Windows . 213

..........................Air Fresheners . 213....................Corrosion Protection . 213

.................................Body Repairs . 215

Appearance Care

Appearance Care

207

Fill a bucket with cool water. Mixin a mild detergent, such asdishwashing liquid or a productmade especially for car washing.

Rinse the car thoroughly with coolwater to remove loose dirt.

Frequent washing helps preserveyour car’s beauty. Dirt and grit canscratch the paint, while tree sap andbird droppings can permanently ruinthe finish.

Wash your car in a shady area, not indirect sunlight. If the car is parked inthe sun, move it into the shade andlet the exterior cool down before youstart.

Only use the solvents and cleanersrecommended in this Owner’sManual.

Check the body for road tar, treesap, etc. Remove these stains withtar remover or turpentine. Rinse itoff immediately so it does notharm the finish. Remember to re-wax these areas, even if the rest of

the car does not need waxing.Do not use harsh chemicals toremove stains from theconvertible top or rear window.Use a mild detergent/watersolution with a soft-bristle brushon the top, and with a soft cloth onthe rear window.

When you have washed and rinsedthe whole exterior, dry it with achamois or soft towel. Letting itair-dry will cause dulling and waterspots.Make sure the top is completelydry before you fold it.

As you dry the car, inspect it forchips and scratches that could allowcorrosion to start. Repair them withtouch-up paint (see page ).

Wash the car, using the water andneutral detergent solution andsponge or soft cloth. Start at a topand work your way down. Rinsefrequently.

210

Exterior Care

Appearance Care

Washing

208

Chemical solvents and strong cleanerscan damage the paint, metal, andplastic on your car.

－

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Cleaning tar, insects, etc. withremovers also takes off the wax.Remember to re-wax those areas,even if the rest of the car does notneed waxing.

Always wash and dry the whole carbefore waxing it. You should waxyour car, including the metal trim,whenever water sits on the surfacein large patches. It should form intobeads or droplets after waxing.

You should use a quality liquid orpaste wax. Apply it according to theinstructions on the container. Ingeneral, there are two types ofproducts:

Waxes A wax coats the finish andprotects it from damage by exposureto sunlight, air pollution, etc. Youshould use a wax on your Hondawhen it is new.

Polishes Polishes and cleaner/waxes can restore the shine to paintthat has oxidized and lost some of itsshine. They normally contain mildabrasives and solvents that removethe top layer of the finish. Youshould use a polish on your Honda ifthe finish does not have its originalshine after using a wax.

Exterior Care

Appearance Care

Waxing

209

The wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum fromcorroding and tarnishing. Usingharsh chemicals, including somecommercial wheel cleaners, or stiffbrushes can damage this clear-coat.Only use a mild detergent and softbrush or sponge to clean the wheels.

Inspect your car frequently for chipsor scratches in the paint. Repairthem right away to prevent corrosionof the metal underneath. Use thetouch-up paint only on small chipsand scratches. More extensive paintdamage should be repaired by aprofessional.

Your dealer has touch-up paint tomatch your car’s color. The colorcode is printed on a sticker on thedriver’s doorjamb. Take this code toyour dealer so you are sure to getthe correct color.

Clean your Honda’s aluminum alloywheels as you do the rest of theexterior. Wash them with the samesolution, and rinse them thoroughly.

Appearance Care

Exterior Care

Paint Touch-upAluminum Wheels

210

Vacuum the carpeting frequently toremove dirt. Ground-in dirt will makethe carpet wear out faster.Periodically shampoo the carpet tokeep it looking new. Use one of thefoam-type carpet cleaners on themarket. Follow the instructions thatcome with the cleaner, applying itwith a sponge or soft brush. Keepthe carpeting as dry as possible bynot adding water to the foam.

The Honda driver’s floor mat thatcame with your car was designed tobe hooked over the floor mat anchor.This keeps the floor mat from slidingforward and possibly interfering withthe pedals.

If you remove the floor mat, makesure to re-anchor it when you put itback in your car.

If you replace it, use a genuineHonda floor mat that is designed tobe used with the floor mat anchors inyour car.

If you use a non-Honda floor mat inthe driver’s footwell, make sure itfits properly and that it can be usedwith the floor mat anchor.

Do not put additional floor mats ontop of the anchored mat, otherwisethe additional mats may slideforward and interfere with the pedals.

Carpeting Floor Mats

Interior Care

Appearance Care 211

Remove dirt and dust with a vacuumcleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a softcloth dampened in a solution of mildsoap and water. Use the samesolution with a soft-bristle brush onmore difficult spots. You can also usecommercially-available spray orfoam-type vinyl cleaners.

Vacuum dirt and dust from theleather frequently. Pay particularattention to the pleats and seams.Clean the leather with a soft clothdampened with clear water, thenbuff it with a clean, dry cloth. Iffurther cleaning is needed, use asoap specifically for leather, such assaddle soap. Apply this soap with adamp, soft cloth. Wipe down andbuff as described above.

Vacuum dirt and dust out of thematerial frequently. For generalcleaning, use a solution of mild soapand lukewarm water, letting it air dry.To clean off stubborn spots, use acommercially-available fabric cleaner.Test it on a hidden area of the fabricfirst, to make sure it does not bleachor stain the fabric. Follow theinstructions that come with thecleaner.

If your seat belts get dirty, you canuse a soft brush with a mixture ofmild soap and warm water to cleanthem. Do not use bleach, dye, orcleaning solvents. They can weakenthe belt material. Let the belts air-dry before you use the car.

Vinyl

Leather

Fabric Seat Belts

Interior Care

Appearance Care212

Clean the windows, inside and out,with a commercially-available glasscleaner. You can also use a mixtureof one part white vinegar to ten partswater. This will remove the haze thatbuilds up on the inside of thewindows. Use a soft cloth or papertowels to clean all glass and clearplastic surfaces. If you use a liquid air freshener,

make sure you fasten it securely so itdoes not spill as you drive.

Two factors normally contribute tocausing corrosion in your car:

Moisture trapped in body cavities.Dirt and road salt that collects inhollows on the underside of thecar stays damp, promotingcorrosion in that area.

Removal of paint and protectivecoatings from the exterior andunderside of the car.

If you want to use an air freshener/deodorizer in the interior of your car,it is best to use a solid type. Someliquid air fresheners contain chemi-cals that may cause parts of theinterior trim and fabric to crack ordiscolor.

If you get any glass cleaner on theconvertible top, immediately spraythe area with water, and dry it with asoft cloth.

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Windows Air Fresheners Corrosion Protection

Interior Care, Corrosion Protection

Appearance Care 213

The rear window def ogger is bonded tothe inside of the glass. Wipingvigorously up-and-down can dislodgeand break these wires. When cleaningthe rear window, use gentle pressureand wipe side-to-side.

Repair chips and scratches in thepaint as soon as you discover them.

Inspect and clean out the drainholes in the bottom of the doorsand body.

Check the floor coverings fordampness. Carpeting and floormats may remain damp for a longtime, especially in winter. Thisdampness can eventually causethe floor panels to corrode.

Use a high-pressure spray to cleanthe underside of your car. This isespecially important in areas thatuse road salt in winter. It is also agood idea in humid climates andareas subject to salt air. Be carefulof the ABS wheel sensors andwiring at each wheel.

Have the corrosion-preventivecoatings on the underside of yourcar inspected and repairedperiodically.

Many corrosion-preventive measuresare built into your Honda. You canhelp keep your car from corrodingby performing some simple periodicmaintenance:

Corrosion Protection

Appearance Care214

Body repairs can affect your car’sresistance to corrosion. If your carneeds repairs after a collision, payclose attention to the parts used inthe repair and the quality of thework.

Make sure the repair facility usesgenuine Honda replacement bodyparts. Some companies make sheetmetal pieces that seem to duplicatethe original Honda body parts, butare actually inferior in fit, finish, andcorrosion resistance. Once installed,they do not give the same high-quality appearance.

When reporting your collision to theinsurance company, tell them youwant genuine Honda parts used inthe repair. Although most insurersrecognize the quality of originalparts, some may try to specify thatthe repairs be done with otheravailable parts. You should investi-gate this before any repairs havebegun.

Take your car to your authorizedHonda dealer for inspection after therepairs are completed. Your dealercan make sure that quality materialswere used, and that corrosion-preventive coatings were applied toall repaired and replaced parts.

Body Repairs

Appearance Care 215

216

This section covers the more-common problems that motoristsexperience with their vehicles. Itgives you information about how tosafely evaluate the problem and whatto do to correct it. If the problem hasstranded you on the side of the road,you may be able to get going again.If not, you will also find instructionson getting your car towed.

......................Compact Spare Tire . 218....................Changing a Flat Tire . 219

..........If Your Engine Won’t Start . 224Nothing Happens or the

Starter Motor Operates........................Very Slowly . 224

The Starter Operates................................Normally . 225................................Jump Starting . 226

............If Your Engine Overheats . 229.........Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 232..........Charging System Indicator . 233

.......Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 234...............Brake System Indicator . 236

.......Closing the Convertible Top . 237..............................................Fuses . 238

..........Checking and Replacing . 239.................If Your Car Gets Stuck . 243

......................Emergency Towing . 245

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Taking Care of the Unexpected 217

Follow these precautions wheneveryou are using the compact spare tire:

The compact spare tire has a shortertread life than a regular tire. Replaceit when you can see the tread wearindicator bars. The replacementshould be the same size and designtire, mounted on the same wheel.The compact spare tire is notdesigned to be mounted on a regularwheel, and the compact wheel is notdesigned for mounting a regular tire.

Check the inflation pressure of thecompact spare tire every time youcheck the other tires. It should beinflated to:

Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h)under any circumstances.

This tire gives a harsher ride andless traction on some road sur-faces than the regular tire. Usegreater caution while driving onthis tire.

Do not mount snow chains on thecompact spare.

Your car has a compact spare tirethat takes up less space. Use thisspare tire as a temporary replace-ment only. Get your regular tirerepaired or replaced and put it backon your car as soon as you can.

The wheel of the compact sparetire is designed especially to fityour car. Do not use your sparetire on another vehicle unless it isthe same make and model.

Compact Spare Tire

Taking Care of the Unexpected218

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

If you have a flat tire while driving,stop in a safe place to change it.Stopping in traffic or on the shoulderof a busy road is dangerous. Driveslowly along the shoulder until youget to an exit or an area to stop thatis far away from the traffic lanes.

Open the trunk. Lift up the toolbox lid and take the jack, wheelwrench, and extension out of thetool box.

The size difference may also causedamage to the rear differential, so donot mount the compact spare on therear. If either rear tire goes flat,remove the front tire on that sameside, mount the compact spare tireon the front, then mount the fronttire on the rear.

Park the car on firm, level, non-slippery ground away from traffic.Put the transmission in Reverse.Apply the parking brake.

Turn on the hazard warning lightsand turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0). Have your passengerget out of the car while youchange the tire.

The compact spare tire is smallerthan a standard tire, which will affectthe vehicle’s handling. Drivecautiously when this spare ismounted on your vehicle.

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Changing a Flat Tire

219

TOOL BOX LID

JACK

The car can easily roll off thejack, seriously injuring anyoneunderneath.

Follow the directions forchanging a tire exactly, andnever get under the car when itis supported only by the jack.

Use the jack that came with your car. Ifyou try to raise another car with thisjack or use another jack to raise yourcar, the car or jack can be damaged.

Unscrew the wing bolt and takethe spare tire out of the spare tireshelf.

Remove the three clips holdingthe spare tire cover by pullingstraight up on the rings. Removethe spare tire cover.

Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2turn with the wheel wrench.

Locate the jacking point nearestthe tire you need to change. It ispointed to by an arrow molded intothe underside of the body. Placethe jack under the jacking point.Turn the end bracket clockwiseuntil the top of the jack contactsthe jacking point. Make sure thejacking point tab is resting in thejack notch.

4. 5.

6.

7.



SPARE TIRE COVER

Use the extension and wheelwrench as shown to raise the caruntil the flat tire is off the ground.

Remove the wheel nuts and flattire. Temporarily place the flat tireon the ground with the outsidesurface of the wheel facing up.Placing the wheel face down couldmar its finish.

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.

8. 9. 10.

CONTINUED



BRAKE HUB

Put on the spare tire. Put thewheel nuts back on finger-tight,then tighten them in a crisscrosspattern with the wheel wrenchuntil the wheel is firmly againstthe hub. Do not try to tightenthem fully.

Lower the car to the ground andremove the jack.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely inthe same crisscross pattern. Havethe wheel nut torque checked atthe nearest automotive servicefacility.Tighten the wheel nuts to:

13.11. 12.



80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

Remove the tool box from thetrunk well and replace the jack,wheel wrench and extension in thetool box.

Place the tool box into the sparetire shelf in the trunk.

Replace the spare tire cover.Secure it with the three clips. Pusheach clip down securely, and pivotthe ring down flat.

Put the flat tire in the trunk wellvertically as shown.

14.

15. 17.

16.



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.

Your car has the ImmobilizerSystem. You should use aproperly-coded master or valet keyto start the engine (see page ).A key that is not properly codedwill cause the immobilizer systemindicator in the dash panel to blinkrapidly.

Check these things:

Diagnosing why your engine won’tstart falls into two areas, dependingon what you hear when you pressthe ENGINE START button.

When you press the ENGINESTART button, you do not hear thenormal noise of the engine trying tostart. You may hear a clicking soundor series of clicks, or nothing at all.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).Turn on the headlights and checktheir brightness. If the headlightsare very dim or don’t light at all,the battery is discharged. See

on page .

Press the ENGINE START button,then release it. If the headlights donot dim, check the condition of thefuses. If the fuses are OK, there isprobably something wrong withthe electrical circuit for theignition switch or starter motor.You will need a qualifiedtechnician to determine theproblem. (See

on page .)

59

226

245

Nothing Happens or the StarterMotor Operates Very Slowly

Jump Starting

EmergencyTowing

If Your Engine Won’t Start


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 .

Do you have fuel? Turn theignition switch to ON (II) for aminute and watch the fuel gauge.The low fuel level warning lightmay not be working, so you werenot reminded to fill the tank.

Are you using the proper startingprocedure? Refer to

on page .

If the headlights dim noticeably orgo out when you try to start theengine, either the battery is dis-charged or the connections arecorroded. Check the condition of thebattery and terminal connections(see page ). You can then tryjump starting the car from a boosterbattery (see page ).

In this case, the starter motor’sspeed sounds normal, or even fasterthan normal, when you press theENGINE START button, but theengine does not run.

181

226135

239

245

The Starter Operates Normally

EmergencyTowingStarting the

Engine

If Your Engine Won’t Start


Open the hood and check thephysical condition of the battery(see page ). In very coldweather, check the condition ofthe electrolyte. If it seems slushyor like ice, do not try jump startinguntil it thaws.

If your car’s battery has run down,you may be able to start the engineby using a booster battery. Althoughthis seems like a simple procedure,you should take several precautions.

To jump start your car, follow thesedirections closely:

1.

181

Jump Starting


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.

－＋

＋

CONTINUED

Connect the second jumper cableto the negative ( ) terminal onthe booster battery. Connect theother end to the metal projectionnear the intake manifold as shownin the illustration. Do not connectthis jumper cable to any other partof the engine.

Connect one jumper cable to thepositive ( ) terminal on yourHonda’s battery. Connect theother end to the positive ( )terminal on the booster battery.

Turn off all the electrical acces-sories: heater, A/C, stereo system,lights, etc. Put the transmission inNeutral and set the parking brake.

3. 4.

2.

Jump Starting


Start your car. If the starter motorstill operates slowly, check thejumper cable connections to makesure they have good metal-to-metal contact.

Once your car is running, discon-nect the negative cable from yourcar, then from the booster battery.Disconnect the positive cable fromyour car, then the booster battery.

Keep the ends of the jumpercables away from each other andany metal on the car until all aredisconnected. Otherwise, you maycause an electrical short.

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.

7.

6.

5.

Jump Starting


BOOSTERBATTERY

If the temperature gauge stays atthe red mark, turn off the engine.

If you do not see steam or spray,leave the engine running andwatch the temperature gauge. Ifthe high heat is due to overloading(climbing a long, steep hill on ahot day with the A/C running, forexample), the engine should startto cool down almost immediately.If it does, wait until the tempera-ture gauge comes down to the mid-point then continue driving.

Your car can overheat for severalreasons, such as lack of coolant or amechanical problem. The onlyindication may be the temperaturegauge climbing to or above the redmark. Or you may see steam orspray coming from under the car orengine cover. In either case, youshould take immediate action.

The reading on your car’stemperature gauge should stay inthe midrange under most conditions.It may go higher if you are driving upa long steep hill on a very hot day. Ifit climbs to the red mark, you shoulddetermine the reason.

Safely pull to the side of the road.Put the transmission in Neutraland set the parking brake. Turnoff the heating and cooling systemand all other accessories. Turn onthe hazard warning indicators.

If you see steam and/or spraycoming from under the hood, turnoff the engine.

Wait until you see no more signsof steam or spray, then open thehood.

1.

3.

4.

5.

2.

CONTINUED

If Your Engine Overheats


Steam and spray from anoverheated engine canseriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steamis coming out.

Driving with the temperature gaugereading 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 you don’t find an obvious leak,check the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank (see page

). If the level is below theMIN mark, add coolant to halfwaybetween the MIN and MAX marks.

Using gloves or a large heavycloth, turn the radiator capcounterclockwise, without pushingdown, to the first stop. Thisreleases any remaining pressure inthe cooling system. After thepressure releases, push down onthe cap and turn it until it comesoff.

If there was no coolant in thereserve tank, you may also have toadd coolant to the radiator. Let theengine cool down until the readingreaches the middle of thetemperature gauge, or lower,before checking the radiator.

6. 7. 9.

8.245

124

EmergencyTowing



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.

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.

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.

10. 12.11.

245Emergency

Towing



This indicator should light when theignition switch is ON (II), and go outafter the engine starts. It shouldnever come on when the engine isrunning. If it starts flashing, itindicates that the oil pressuredropped very low for a moment, thenrecovered. If the indicator stays onwith the engine running, it showsthat the engine has lost oil pressureand serious engine damage ispossible. In either case, you shouldtake immediate action.

Start the engine and watch the oilpressure indicator. If the lightdoes not go out within ten seconds,turn off the engine. There is amechanical problem that needs tobe repaired before you cancontinue driving. (See

on page .)Safely pull off the road and shutoff the engine. Turn on the hazardwarning indicators.

If necessary, add oil to bring thelevel back to the full mark on thedipstick (see page ).

Let the car sit for a minute. Openthe hood and check the oil level(see page ). Although oil leveland oil pressure are not directlyconnected, an engine that is verylow on oil can lose pressure duringcornering and other drivingmaneuvers.

1.

2.

3.

4.

123

161

245Emergency

Towing

Low Oil Pressure Indicator


LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

Running the engine with low oilpressure can cause serious mechanicaldamage almost immediately. Turn of fthe engine as soon as you can saf ely getthe car stopped.

This indicator should come on whenthe ignition switch is ON (II), and goout after the engine starts. If itcomes on brightly when the engineis running, it indicates that thecharging system has stoppedcharging the battery.

By eliminating as much of theelectrical load as possible, you candrive several miles (kilometers)before the battery is too dischargedto keep the engine running. Drive toa service station or garage whereyou can get technical assistance.

Immediately turn off all electricalaccessories: radio, heater, A/C,cruise control, etc. Try not to useother electrically-operated controlssuch as the power windows. Keepthe engine running and take extracare not to stall it. Starting theengine will discharge the batteryrapidly.

Charging System Indicator


CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

This indicator comes on for a fewseconds when you turn the ignitionswitch ON (II). If it comes on at anyother time, it indicates one of theengine’s emissions control systemsmay have a problem. Even thoughyou may feel no difference in yourcar’s performance, it can reduceyour fuel economy and cause yourcar to put out excessive emissions.Continued operation may causeserious damage.

If you have recently refueled yourcar, the cause of this indicatorcoming on could be a loose ormissing fuel fill cap. Check the capand tighten it until it clicks severaltimes. Replace the fuel fill cap if it ismissing. Tightening the cap will notmake the indicator turn offimmediately; it takes three drivingtrips.

If the indicator remains on past threedriving trips, or the fuel cap was notloose or missing, have the carchecked by the dealer as soon aspossible. Drive moderately until thedealer has inspected the problem.Avoid full-throttle acceleration anddriving at high speed.

You should also have the dealerinspect your car if this indicatorcomes on repeatedly, even though itmay turn off as you continue driving.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp


MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

If you keep driving with themalf unction indicator lamp on, you candamage your car’s emissions controlsand engine. Those repairs may not becovered by your car’s warranties.

Your car 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 car’s battery has beendisconnected or gone dead, thesecodes are erased. It takes severaldays of driving under variousconditions to set the codes again.

If possible, do not take your car for astate emissions test until thereadiness codes are set. See StateEmissions Testing on pages and

.260

261


Readiness Codes

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

235

If it comes on at any other time, itindicates a problem with the car’sbrake system. In most cases, theproblem is a low fluid level in thebrake fluid reservoir. Press lightly onthe brake pedal to see if it feelsnormal. If it does, check the brakefluid level the next time you stop at aservice station (see page ). If thefluid level is low, take the car to yourdealer and have the brake systeminspected for leaks or worn brakepads.

However, if the brake pedal does notfeel normal, you should takeimmediate action. Because of thebrake system’s dual-circuit design, aproblem in one part of the systemwill still give you braking at twowheels. You will feel the brake pedalgo down much farther before the carbegins to slow down, and you willhave to press harder on the pedal.The distance needed to stop will bemuch longer.

The Brake System Indicatornormally comes on when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). It is areminder to check the parking brake.It comes on and stays lit if you do notfully release the parking brake.

Slow down by shifting to a lowergear, and pull to the side of the roadwhen it is safe. Because of thelonger distance needed to stop, it ishazardous to drive the car. Youshould have it towed, and repaired assoon as possible. (See

on page .)

If you must drive the car a shortdistance in this condition, driveslowly and cautiously.

174245

Brake System Indicator


EmergencyTowing

236

BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

Holding each corner of theconvertible top, raise the top andpush it forward as far as it will go.

Follow steps 5 through 7 of theclosing procedure on page .

If the electric motor will not closethe convertible top, do the following.

Check the fuse for the convertibletop motor (see page ). If thefuse is blown, replace it with oneof the same or lower rating.

Try closing the convertible top. Ifthe new fuse blows immediately orthe convertible top still does notoperate, you can close theconvertible top manually.

Locate the electrical connector forthe convertible top motor.It is under the lower corner of thedashboard on the passenger’s side.Disconnect the connector bypushing the tab and pulling theconnector down.

3.

1.

2.

4.

5.76

239

Closing the Convertible Top


CONNECTOR

The interior fuse box is underneaththe dashboard on the driver’s side.

There are two under-hood fuseboxes in the engine compartment.

The main fuse box is located on thepassenger’s side near the battery. Toopen it, push the two tabs as shown.

All the electrical circuits in your carhave fuses to protect them from ashort circuit or overload. Thesefuses are located in three fuse boxes.

Fuses


The auxiliary fuse box is located onthe driver’s side near the brake fluidreservoir. To open it, push the tab oneach side and remove the lid.

If something electrical in your carstops working, the first thing youshould 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 component. Check thosefuses first, but check all the fusesbefore deciding that a blown fuse isnot the cause. Replace any blownfuses and check the component’soperation.

Turn the ignition switch to LOCK(0). Make sure the headlights andall other accessories are off.

Remove the cover from the fusebox.

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.

1.

2.

3.

241 242

CONTINUED

Checking and Replacing Fuses

Fuses


BLOWN

Look for a burned wire inside thefuse. If it is burned, replace it withone of the spare fuses of the samerating or lower.

Check the smaller fuses by pullingout the fuse with the fuse pullerprovided in the interior fuse box.

If you cannot drive the 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 accessorypower socket or radio).

If you replace the blown fuse with aspare fuse that has a lower rating, itmight blow out again. This does notindicate anything wrong. Replace thefuse with one of the correct rating assoon as you can.

If the replacement fuse of thesame rating blows in a short time,there is probably a seriouselectrical problem in your car.Leave the blown fuse in thatcircuit and have your car checkedby a qualified mechanic.

4. 5.

6.

Fuses


FUSE PULLERBLOWN

Replacing a f use with one that has ahigher rating greatly increases thechances of damaging the electricalsystem. If you do not have a replace-ment f use with the proper rating f or thecircuit, install one with a lower rating.

－

－

－

－

－

＊

＊

No. Amps.Amps.No. Circuits Protected

CONTINUED

Circuits Protected

1415161718192021

222324252627

10 A10 A

7.5 A7.5 A10 A15 A

7.5 A7.5 A

7.5 A20 A20 A

7.5 A

15 A

10 A20 A

7.5 A15 A

7.5 A

15 A7.5 A15 A10 A

1

23456789

10111213

Daytime Running LightsKeyless EntryBack-upInterior LightSmall LightsRadioStarter SignalHeater Control,Cooling Fan RelayPower MirrorsRight Power WindowLeft Power WindowNot usedNot usedNot used

Windshield Wiper,Auto Stop SignalWasher MotorNot usedNot usedAccessory SocketWindshield WiperTurn signal LightACGInstrument Light, Back-upLightsIgnition CoilEngine StartFuel Pump, SRSSRS

: Canadian Model

Fuses


IINNTTEERRIIOORR FFUUSSEE BBOOXX

－

－

－

－

－

－

－

－

－

－

－

No. Amps.

No.

No. Circuits ProtectedCircuits Protected

Circuits ProtectedAmps.

Amps.

123456789

10111213

40 A20 A

30 A20 A40 A20 A

12345

141516171819202122232425

Magnetic Clutch RelayRight HeadlightACG SHazard Warning LightsCooling FanNot usedStopLeft HeadlightABS F/SABS MotorBatteryIG1 Main

Lighting 1 RelayLighting 2 RelayHorn RelayPower Window MotorRight Roof MotorNot usedBack Up ACCLeft Roof MotorHeater MotorCondenser FanNot usedCondenser Fan RelayCooling Fan Relay

Rear Window DefoggerNot usedNot usedEPSAir Pump

20 A

70 A60 A

20 A15 A10 A20 A

15 A20 A20 A30 A

100 A40 A

Fuses


(AUXILIARY FUSE BOX)

UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOXES(MAIN FUSE BOX)

For very short distances, such asfreeing the car, you can use thedetachable towing hook that mountson the anchors in the front and rearbumpers.

Remove the cover from thebumper.

To use the towing hook:

Remove the towing hook, hookextension, and wheel wrench fromthe tool box.

Using the wheel wrench, fastenthe extension into the bolt hole inthe anchor.

If your car gets stuck in sand, mud,or snow, call a towing service to pullit out (see page ).

1.

2.

3.

245

CONTINUED

If Your Car Gets Stuck


Screw the towing hook into theextension and tighten it securelyby hand.

4.

If Your Car Gets Stuck


To avoid damage to your car, use thetowing hook f or straight, f lat groundtowing only. Do not tow at an angle.The tow hook should not be used to towthe vehicle onto a f lat bed. Do not useit as a tie down.

－－If your car needs to be towed, call aprofessional towing service or, if youbelong to one, an organization thatprovides roadside assistance. Nevertow your car behind another vehiclewith just a rope or chain. It is verydangerous.

There are three popular types ofprofessional towing equipment.

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. Becausethe S2000 sits so low, the body couldcome in contact with the ground andbe damaged.

The operatorloads your vehicle on the back of atruck.

When you contact the towing agency,inform them that you have an S2000and that a flat-bed is required.

Wheel Lift EquipmentFlat-bed Equipment

This method oftowing is unacceptable.

This is the only way yourS2000 should be transported.

Emergency Towing


－ The towtruck uses metal cables with hookson the ends. These hooks go aroundparts of the frame or suspension andthe cables lift that end of the car offthe ground. Your car’s suspensionand body can be seriously damaged.

Sling-type Equipment

This method of towing isunacceptable.

Emergency Towing


The diagrams in this section giveyou the dimensions and capacities ofyour Honda, and the locations of theidentification numbers. It alsoincludes information you shouldknow about your vehicle’s tires andemissions control systems.

................Identification Numbers . 248................................Specifications . 250

DOT Tire Quality Grading......................(U.S. Vehicles) . 252

.................................Treadwear . 252......................................Traction . 252

.............................Temperature . 253...........................Tire Information . 254

.........................Oxygenated Fuels . 255......Driving in Foreign Countries . 256

.......................Emissions Controls . 257.....................The Clean Air Act . 257

Crankcase Emissions Control....................................System . 257

Evaporative Emissions Control....................................System . 257

...Exhaust Emissions Controls . 258....................PGM-FI System . 258

Ignition Timing Control................................System . 258

Secondary Air Injection................................System . 258

Three Way Catalytic...........................Converter . 258

....................Replacement Parts . 258..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 259

..............State Emissions Testing . 260

Technical Information

Technical Information 247

Your car has several identifyingnumbers located in various places.

The Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) is the 17-digit number yourHonda dealer uses to register yourcar for warranty purposes. It is alsonecessary for licensing and insuringyour car. The easiest place to findthe VIN is on a plate fastened to thetop of the dashboard. You can see itby looking through the windshieldon the driver’s side. It is also on theCertification label attached to thedriver’s doorjamb, and is stamped onthe engine compartment bulkhead.The VIN is also provided in bar codeon the Certification label.

Identif ication Numbers

Technical Information248

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

CERTIFICATION LABEL

The Engine Number is stamped onthe left front corner of the engineblock.

The Transmission Number is on alabel underneath the transmission.


Identif ication Numbers

249

TRANSMISSION NUMBER

ENGINE NUMBER

＊

＊

＊

＊


Specifications

250

Engine

Dimensions

Weights

Capacities

162.0 in (4,115 mm)68.9 in (1,750 mm)50.6 in (1,285 mm)94.5 in (2,400 mm)57.9 in (1,470 mm)59.4 in (1,510 mm)

13.2 US gal (50 )

Water cooled 4-stroke DOHCVTEC 4-cylinder gasoline engine

Type

Bore x StrokeDisplacementCompression ratioSpark plugs

121.8 cu-in (1,997 cm )11.0 : 1

1.72 US gal (6.5 )2.01 US gal (7.6 )

LengthWidthHeightWheelbaseTrack

Gross vehicle weight rating See the certification label attachedto the driver’s doorjamb.

Fuel tankEngine coolant

Engine oil

ManualtransmissionfluidDifferentialoilWindshieldwasherreservoir

5.1 US qt (4.8 )4.8 US qt (4.5 )5.9 US qt (5.6 )1.6 US qt (1.5 )1.7 US qt (1.6 )

0.78 US qt (0.74 )0.81 US qt (0.77 )2.7 US qt (2.6 )4.4 US qt (4.2 )

Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in theengine.Reserve tank capacity:0.16 US gal (0.6 )Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

3.43 x 3.31 in (87.0 x 84.0 mm)

See the spark plug maintenancesection, page 180 .

FrontRear

1 :

2 :

ChangeTotalChange

TotalChangeTotal

ChangeTotalU.S. CarsCanadian Cars

1

2

Including filterWithout filter

－－

－－

－－－－－－－－－－－－－－


Specifications

251

Tires

Battery

Alignment

Fuses

Air conditioning

Lights

55 W12 V 12 V 36 AH/5 HR

0.00 in (0.0 mm)0.24 in (6.0 mm)

0°30’

6°

205/55R16 89W225/50R16 92W

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

Size

Pressure32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

Capacity

Toe

Camber

Caster

Under-hood

Interior

T125/70D16 96M

1°30’

Refrigerant typeCharge quantityLubricant type SP-10

19.4 21.2 oz (550 600 g)HFC-134a (R-134a)

12 V 5 W12 V 5 W12 V 5 W12 V 21 W12 V 5 W12 V 5 W12 V 21 W/5 W12 V 21 W12 V 21 W12 V 55 W(H1)

35 W

12 V 5 W

12 VHeadlights

Daytime running lightsFront turn signal lightsRear turn signal lightsStop/TaillightsSide marker lights

Back-up lightsLicense plate lightInterior lightTrunk lightSide turn signal lights

See page 242 or the fuse boxcover.See page 241 or the fuse labelattached to the inside of the fusebox door under the dashboard.

FrontRear

FrontRearFrontRearFront

in

FrontRearSpare TireFrontRearSpare Tire

HighLow

－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 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.

Quality grades can be found whereapplicable on the tire sidewallbetween the tread shoulder and themaximum section width. Forexample:

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 car tires must conformto Federal Safety Requirements inaddition to these grades.


DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Treadwear

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Treadwear 200Traction AATemperature A

Traction AA, A, B, C

252

－ 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.

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 passenger cartires must meet under the FederalMotor Vehicle Safety Standard No.109. Grades B and A representhigher levels of performance on thelaboratory test wheel than theminimum required by law.


DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Temperature A, B, C

253

－

－

－

－

－

－

－

－

－

－

－The tires that came on your car havea number of markings. Those youshould be aware of are describedbelow.

Whenever tires are replaced, theyshould be replaced with tires of thesame size. Following is an exampletire size with an explanation of whateach component means.

Vehicle type (P indicatespassenger vehicle).

Tire width in millimeters.

Aspect ratio (the tire’s sectionheight as a percentage of itswidth).

Tire construction code (Rindicates radial).

Load index (a numerical codeassociated with the maximumload the tire can carry).

Rim diameter in inches.

Speed symbol (analphabetical code indicatingthe maximum speed rating).

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.

P

55

R

16

DOT

B97R

FW6X

2202

225

94

V


Tire Information

Tire Labeling

Tire Size

Tire Identif ication Number

254

DOT B97R FW6X 2202

P225/55R16 94V

Some conventional gasolines arebeing blended with alcohol or anether compound. These gasolinesare collectively referred to asoxygenated fuels. To meet clean airstandards, some areas of the UnitedStates and Canada use oxygenatedfuels to help reduce emissions.

If you use an oxygenated fuel, besure it is unleaded and meets theminimum octane rating requirement.

Before using an oxygenated fuel, tryto confirm the fuel’s contents. Somestates/provinces require thisinformation to be posted on thepump.

The following are the U.S. EPA andCanadian CGSB approvedpercentages of oxygenates:

(methyl or woodalcohol)Your vehicle was not designed to usefuel that contains methanol.Methanol can corrode metal parts inthe fuel system, and also damageplastic and rubber components. Thisdamage would not be covered byyour warranties.

(Methyl Tertiary ButylEther)You may use gasoline containing upto 15 percent MTBE by volume.

(ethyl or grain alcohol)You may use gasoline containing upto 10 percent ethanol by volume.Gasoline containing ethanol may bemarketed under the name ‘‘Gasohol.’’

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

Fuel system damage or performanceproblems resulting from the use ofan oxygenated fuel containing morethan the percentages of oxygenatesgiven above are not covered underwarranty.

METHANOL

MTBE

ETHANOL

Oxygenated Fuels


If you are planning to take yourHonda outside the U.S. or Canada,contact the tourist bureaus in theareas you will be traveling in to findout about the availability of unleadedgasoline with the proper octanerating.

If unleaded gasoline is not available,be aware that using leaded gasolinein your Honda will affect perfor-mance and fuel mileage, and damageits emissions controls. It will nolonger comply with U.S. andCanadian emissions regulations, andwill be illegal to operate in NorthAmerica. To bring your car back intocompliance will require the replace-ment of several components, such asthe oxygen sensors and the threeway catalytic converter. These re-placements are not covered underwarranty.

Driving in Foreign Countries


＊

＊The burning of gasoline in your car’sengine produces several byproducts.Some of these are carbon monoxide(CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) andhydrocarbons (HC). Gasolineevaporating from the tank alsoproduces hydrocarbons. Controllingthe production of NOx, CO, and HCis important to the environment.Under certain conditions of sunlightand climate, NOx and HC react toform photochemical ‘‘smog.’’ Carbonmonoxide does not contribute tosmog creation, but it is a poisonousgas.

Your car has a Positive CrankcaseVentilation System. This keepsgasses that build up in the engine’scrankcase from going into theatmosphere. The Positive CrankcaseVentilation valve routes them from

the crankcase back to the intakemanifold. They are then drawn intothe engine and burned.

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.

In Canada, Honda vehicles complywith the Canadian Motor VehicleSafety Standards (CMVSS) forEmissions valid at the time they aremanufactured.

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 page

.152

The Clean Air Act

Crankcase Emissions ControlSystem

Evaporative Emissions ControlSystem

Emissions Controls


This system constantly adjusts theignition timing, reducing the amountof HC, CO, and NOx produced.

The exhaust emissions controlsinclude four systems: PGM-FI,Ignition Timing Control, SecondaryAir Injection System, and Three WayCatalytic Converter. These foursystems 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.

During engine warm-up, air ispumped into the exhaust to reduceemissions when the engine is cold.

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 ), dinitrogen(N ), and water vapor.

The emissions control systems aredesigned and certified to work to-gether in reducing emissions tolevels that comply with the Clean AirAct. To make sure the emissionsremain low, you should use only newGenuine Honda replacement parts ortheir equivalent for repairs. Usinglower quality parts may increase theemissions from your car.

The PGM-FI System uses sequentialmultiport fuel injection. It has threesubsystems: Air Intake, EngineControl, and Fuel Control. TheEngine Control Module (ECM) 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 arecovered by warranties separate fromthe rest of your car. Read yourwarranty manual for more informa-tion.

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.

2

2

Exhaust Emissions Controls Replacement Parts

Onboard Refueling VaporRecovery

PGM-FI System

Ignition Timing Control System

Secondary Air Injection System

Three Way Catalytic Converter

Emissions Controls


Keep the engine tuned-up.

Always use unleaded gasoline.Even a small amount of leadedgasoline can contaminate thecatalyst metals, making the threeway catalytic converter ineffective.

The three way catalytic convertermust operate at a high temperaturefor the chemical reactions to takeplace. It can set on fire any com-bustible materials that come near it.Park your car away from high grass,dry leaves, or other flammables.

A defective three way catalyticconverter contributes to air pollution,and can impair your engine’s per-formance. Follow these guidelines toprotect your car’s three way catalyticconverter.

Have your car diagnosed andrepaired if it is misfiring, back-firing, stalling, or otherwise notrunning properly.

The three way catalytic convertercontains precious metals that serveas catalysts, promoting chemicalreactions to convert the exhaustgasses without affecting the metals.The catalytic converter is referred toas a three-way catalyst, since it actson HC, CO, and NOx. A replacementunit must be an original Honda partor its equivalent.

Three Way Catalytic Converter


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 re-testingby doing 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 Neutral.Increase the engine speed to 2,000rpm and hold it there until thetemperature gauge rises to at least1/4 of the scale (approximately 3minutes).

Testing of Readiness Codes

State Emissions Testing


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.

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 in5th. Do not use the cruise control.When traffic allows, drive for 90seconds without moving theaccelerator pedal. (Vehicle speedmay vary slightly; this is okay.) Ifyou cannot do this for acontinuous 90 seconds because oftraffic conditions, drive for at least30 seconds, then repeat it twomore times (for a total of 90seconds).

If the testing facility determines thereadiness codes are still not set, seeyour Honda dealer.

State Emissions Testing


262

Customer Relations................................Information . 264

....................Warranty Coverages . 265Reporting Safety Defects

..........................(U.S. Vehicles) . 266.....................Authorized Manuals . 267

Warranty and Customer Relations

Warranty and Customer Relations 263

Honda dealership personnel aretrained professionals. They shouldbe able to answer all your questions.If you encounter a problem that yourdealership does not solve to yoursatisfaction, please discuss it withthe dealership’s management. TheService Manager or GeneralManager can help. Almost allproblems are solved in this way.

If you are dissatisfied with thedecision made by the dealership’smanagement, contact your HondaCustomer Relations Office.

U.S. Owners: In Puerto Rico and the U.S. VirginIslands:

When you call or write, please giveus this information:

Canadian Owners: 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

248

Customer Relations Information

Warranty and Customer Relations264

CUSTOMER RELATIONS

RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTÉLE

Bella InternationalP.O. Box 190816

San Juan, Puerto Rico 00919-0816

(787) 250-4318

American Honda Motor Co.Honda Consumer Affairs

DepartmentMail stop 500-2N-7D1919 Torrance Blvd

Torrance, CA 90501-2746

telephone: (800) 993-1009

Honda Canada Inc.715 Milner AvenueToronto, ONM1B 2K8

Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9

Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909Toronto (416) 287-4776

－

－－

－

－

－

－

－

－a seat

belt that fails to function properly iscovered for the useful life of thevehicle.

providescoverage for as long as the pur-chaser of the muffler owns the car.

all exterior body panels arecovered for rust-through from theinside for the specified time periodwith no mileage limit.

coversyour new vehicle, except for thebattery, emissions control systems,and accessories, against defects inmaterials and workmanship.

these twowarranties cover your car’s emis-sions control systems. Time, mileage,and coverage are conditional. Pleaseread the warranty manual for exactinformation.

this warranty gives upto 100 percent credit toward areplacement battery.

Your new Honda is covered by thesewarranties:

genuine Honda Accessories arecovered under this warranty. Timeand mileage limits depend on thetype of accessory and other factors.Please read your warranty manualfor details.

covers all genuineHonda replacement parts againstdefects in materials and workman-ship.

provides proratedcoverage for a replacement batterypurchased from a Honda dealer.

Restrictions and exclusions apply toall these warranties. Please read the2003 Honda Warranty Informationbooklet that came with your car forprecise information on warrantycoverages. Your Honda’s originaltires are covered by theirmanufacturer. Tire warranty infor-mation is in a separate booklet.

Please refer to the 2003 WarrantyManual that came with your car.

Seat Belt Limited Warranty

Replacement Muffler LifetimeLimited Warranty

Rust Perforation Limited WarrantyNew Car Limited Warranty

Emissions Control Systems DefectsWarranty and EmissionsPerformance Warranty

Original Equipment Battery LimitedWarranty

Accessory Limited Warranty

Replacement Parts LimitedWarranty

Replacement Battery LimitedWarranty

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

Warranty Coverages

Warranty and Customer Relations 265

To contact NHTSA, you may eithercall the Auto Safety Hotline toll-freeat 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 inWashington D.C. area) or write to:NHTSA, U.S. Department ofTransportation, Washington,D.C. 20590. You can also obtainother information about motorvehicle safety from the Hotline.

If you believe that your vehicle has adefect which could cause a crash orcould cause injury or death, youshould immediately inform theNational Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) in additionto notifying American Honda MotorCo., Inc.

If NHTSA receives similar com-plaints, it may open an investigation,and if it finds that a safety defectexists in a group of vehicles, it mayorder a recall and remedy campaign.However, NHTSA cannot becomeinvolved in individual problemsbetween you, your dealer, orAmerican Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

Warranty and Customer Relations266

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＊

＊２００３

ＨＯＮ

The following publications covering the operation andservicing of your car can be obtained from HelmIncorporated, either by filling out the attached form or,for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone numberon the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below,contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit,Michigan 48207, or call 1-800-782-4356.

Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners shouldcontact their authorized Honda dealer.

Authorized Manuals

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals(U.S. only)

267

ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-782-4356

OR

(NOTE: For Credit Card Holder Orders Only)

MINIMUM CREDIT CARD PURCHASE $10.00

Publication

Form Number

61S2A03

61S2A03EL

61S2A30

31S2A630

31S2AQ00

HON-R

From Description

2000-2003 Honda S2000

Service Manual

2000-2003 Honda S2000

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual

2000-2003 Honda S2000

Body Repair Manual

2003 Honda S2000

Owner’s Manual

2003 Honda S2000

Quick Start Guide

Order Form for Previous Years-

Indicate Year and Model Desired

Price

Each

$70.00

$50.00

$44.00

$34.00

$10.00

FREE

PUBLICATION NUMBERVEHICLE MODEL

Name YearQty

Price

Each

Total

Price

GRAND TOTAL

HANDLING CHARGE

Mich. Purchases

Add 6% Sales Tax

TOTAL MATERIAL

$6.00

Monday-Friday 8:00 A.M. 6:00 P.M. EST

By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You canpay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail toHelm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.

Prices are subject to change withoutnotice and without incurring obligation.

Orders are mailed within 10 days. Pleaseallow adequate time for delivery.Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring

obligation.

－

－

－

ＳＨＩＰ

ＴＯ

ＰＡＹＭＥＮＴ

This manual describes the procedures involved in thereplacement of damaged body parts.

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 car.

Authorized Manuals

Service Manual:

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:

Body Repair Manual:

268

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

Customer Name Attention

Apartment Number

State & Zip CodeCity

Daytime Telephone Number

Check or money order enclosed payable to Helm Inc U.S. funds only.Do not send cash

MasterCard

VISA Check here if your billing address is differentfrom the shipping address shown above.

Account Number Expiration: Mo. Yr.

CUSTOMER SIGNATURE DATE

Street Address No P.O. Box Number

( )

These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

CONTINUED

............................Capacities Chart . 250.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 40

............................Cargo, Carrying . 128..............CAUTION, Explanation of . ii

...................................CD Changer . 108.......................................CD Player . 105

........................Certification Label . 248............................................Chains . 195

........Back-up Lamp Replacement . 202Battery

Charging System...........................Indicator . 46, 233

............................Jump Starting . 226..............................Maintenance . 181............................Specifications . 251

..............................Before Driving . 119..........................................Belts, Seat . 8

.............................Beverage Holder . 82...................................Body Repair . 215

............................................Brakes . 140...........Anti-lock System (ABS) . 141

.............Break-in, New Linings . 120....................Bulb Replacement . 202

...........................................Fluid . 174.........................................Parking . 81

.................System Indicator . 46, 236..............Wear Indicators, Disc . 140

.............................Braking System . 140........................Break-in, New Car . 120

..Brightness Control, Instruments . 54........................Brights, Headlights . 53

.........................Bulb Replacement . 198..........................Back-up Lights . 202

..............................Brake Lights . 202.................................Headlights . 198

.................License Plate Lights . 204..................Side Marker Lights . 200

............................Specifications . 251....................Turn Signal Lights . 200

..............................Bulbs, Halogen . 198

Accessories.................................Installation . 126

...............Accessory Power Socket . 82ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

.......................................Position) . 61....................Additives, Engine Oil . 162

.....................................Airbag (SRS) . 9.....................Air Cleaner Element . 176

..............................Air Conditioning . 86..............................Maintenance . 186

............................................Usage . 86.........................Air Outlets (Vents) . 88.......................Air Pressure, Tires . 189

...........................Alarm, Anti-theft . 114.......................Alcohol in Gasoline . 255

.......Aluminum Wheels, Cleaning . 210......................................Antifreeze . 165

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)....................Indicator Light . 47, 143

...................................Operation . 141.Anti-theft Steering Column Lock . 60

..........................Anti-theft System . 114

..........................Appearance Care . 207......................................Audio Panel . 82

..................................Audio System . 94.............Automatic Speed Control . 115

Index

B

A

C

I

..............................Economy, Fuel . 125............Emergencies on the Road . 217.............Battery, Jump Starting . 226

................Changing a Flat Tire . 219.....Charging System Indicator . 233

..................Checking the Fuses . 239

Changing Oil........................................How to . 163......................................When to . 150

....................Changing a Flat Tire . 219............Changing Engine Coolant . 167

...Charging System Indicator . 46, 233...............Check Engine Light . 47, 234

............Checklist, Before Driving . 134.....................................Child Safety . 18

.......................................Child Seats . 22...................................Cleaner, Air . 176

.........................................Cleaning . 207....................Aluminum Wheels . 210

...................................Carpeting . 211......................................Exterior . 208

.................................Floor Mats . 211.......................................Interior . 211.......................................Leather . 212

...................................Seat Belts . 212...........................................Vinyl . 212

....................................Windows . 213...................................Clutch Fluid . 175

........................CO in the Exhaust . 257............Cold Weather, Starting in . 136

......................Compact Spare Tire . 218.............Controls, Instruments and . 43

..............................Convertible Top . 72...............Convertible Top Cover . 77

..Lowering the Convertible Top . 72................................Maintenance . 78

.....Raising the Convertible Top . 75Coolant

........................................Adding . 165....................................Checking . 124

.........................Proper Solution . 165...................Temperature Gauge . 49

....................Corrosion Protection . 213Crankcase Emission Control

........................................System . 257............Cruise Control Operation . 115

Customer Relations................................Information . 264

................DANGER, Explanation of . ii.......................................Dashboard . 44

................Daytime Running Lights . 54............Defects, Reporting Safety . 266

................Defrosting the Windows . 91....................................Dimensions . 250

...............Dimming the Headlights . 53

Dipstick..................................Engine Oil . 123

..........................Directional Signals . 55........Disc Brake Wear Indicators . 140

.....................Disposal of Used Oil . 164...................Do Not Tow a Trailer . 145

Doors..............Locking and Unlocking . 62

..............................Monitor Light . 47......................Power Door Locks . 62

..........DOT Tire Quality Grading . 252Downshifting, 6-speed Manual

.............................Transmission . 138...........................................Driving . 133

....................................Economy . 125.........................In Bad Weather . 144

................In Foreign Countries . 256

Index

DE

II

CONTINUED

...Closing the Convertible Top . 237.....Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 232...Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 234

..................Overheated Engine . 229...........................Emergency Brake . 81

......................Emergency Flashers . 80............Emergency Trunk Opener . 67

.......................Emissions Controls . 257.............Emissions Testing, State . 260

Engine...........Check Engine Light . 47, 234

Compartment, Checking......................................in the . 122.......................................Coolant . 124

....Coolant Temperature Gauge . 49...................................Drive Belt . 188

Malfunction Indicator................................Lamp . 47, 234

........Oil Pressure Indicator . 46, 232

..............Oil, What Kind to Use . 161...............................Overheating . 229

............................Specifications . 250

............................Speed Limiter . 138.......................................Starting . 135

.........Engine Cover, Opening the . 122......................Ethanol in Gasoline . 255

...Evaporative Emission Controls . 257...............................Exhaust Fumes . 40

Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat........................................Belts by . 17

..................Exterior, Cleaning the . 208

............................Fabric, Cleaning . 212.....................................Fan, Interior . 86

Features, Comfort and................................Convenience . 85

....................Filling the Fuel Tank . 121Filters

...............................................Oil . 163.............Flashers, Hazard Warning . 80

...................Flat Tire, Changing a . 219Fluids

..........................................Brake . 174.........................................Clutch . 175

..............Manual Transmission . 172..................Windshield Washer . 171

........FM Stereo Radio Reception . 103.....Foreign Countries, Driving in . 256

..........................Four-way Flashers . 80

.................................................Fuel . 120......................Fill Door and Cap . 121

...........................................Gauge . 50................Octane Requirement . 120

...............................Oxygenated . 255........................Reserve Indicator . 48

........................Tank, Filling the . 121..............Fuel Mileage, Improving . 125..............Fuel Station Procedures . 121

.....................Fuses, Checking the . 239

..........................................Gasohol . 255.........................................Gasoline . 120

...............Fuel Reserve Indicator . 48...........................................Gauge . 50

................Octane Requirement . 120.....................Oxygenated Fuels . 255

........................Tank, Filling the . 121

Index

F

G

III

..................................................Keys . 58

.............................................Gauges . 49...Engine Coolant Temperature . 49

...............................................Fuel . 50...............................Speedometer . 49

.................................Tachometer . 49Gearshift Lever Positions

6-speed Manual.........................Transmission . 137

..............................Glass Cleaning . 213

.............Halogen Headlight Bulbs . 198..............Hazard Warning Flashers . 80

Headlights............Daytime Running Lights . 54

..................High Beam Indicator . 48...........................Reminder Tone . 53

........Replacing Halogen Bulbs . 198...................................Turning on . 53

.........Heating and Cooling System . 86.............High Altitude, Starting at . 136

.................High-Low Beam Switch . 53................High Speed, Shifting at . 138

....................................Hood Latch . 178.......................Hood, Opening the . 122

...........................Hydraulic Clutch . 175.................................Hydroplaning . 145

.......................Jacking Up the Car . 220.......................................Jack, Tire . 219

................................Jump Starting . 226

Identification Number,.......................................Vehicle . 248

Ignition..............................................Keys . 58

...........................................Switch . 60............Timing Control System . 258

Indicator Lights, Instrument.............................................Panel . 45

...................Inflation, Proper Tire . 189...................................Inside Mirror . 80

.............................Inspection, Tire . 191............................Instrument Panel . 44

........Instrument Panel Brightness . 54...........................Interior Cleaning . 211

.................................Interior Lights . 83........................................Introduction . i

.......................Label, Certification . 248.................Lane Change, Signaling . 55

........................Lap/Shoulder Belts . 33.........................Leather, Cleaning . 212

Lights....................Bulb Replacement . 198

.......................................Indicator . 45..................................Turn Signal . 55

.....................................Load Limit . 129...............................Loading Cargo . 128

......LOCK (Ignition Key Position) . 60Locks

.......Anti-theft Steering Column . 60............................Fuel Fill Door . 121

.................................Power Door . 62...........................................Trunk . 66

........................Low Coolant Level . 124...Lower Gear, Downshifting to a . 138

Index

H

I

J

K

L

IV

CONTINUED

.........................Low Fuel Indicator . 48...Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 46, 232

...Lubricant Specifications Chart . 250.........................................Luggage . 128

..................New Vehicle Break-in . 120.....................Normal Shift Speeds . 138

..................NOTICE, Explanation of . ii...............Numbers, Identification . 248

..................................Maintenance . 147...Owner Maintenance Checks . 159

........................................Record . 157....................................Schedule . 150

..Maintenance Required Indicator . 51.Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 47, 234

...................Manual Transmission . 137........Manual Transmission Fluid . 172

...............................Meters, Gauges . 49...................Methanol in Gasoline . 255

..........................Mirrors, Adjusting . 80

...Octane Requirement, Gasoline . 120.........................................Odometer . 50

...............................Odometer, Trip . 51Oil

........................Change, How to . 163......................Change, When to . 150......................Checking Engine . 123..............Pressure Indicator . 46, 232

Selecting Proper Viscosity......................................Chart . 162

...........ON (Ignition Key Position) . 61.........................Opening the Trunk . 66

..Operation in Foreign Countries . 256..............................Outside Mirrors . 80

....................Overheating, Engine . 229.........................Oxygenated Fuels . 255

..............................Paint Touch-up . 210..............Panel Brightness Control . 54

.................................Parking Brake . 81

.................................Parking Lights . 53.............................PGM-FI System . 258

..................Polishing and Waxing . 209Power

..................................Door Locks . 62..............Engine, Specifications . 250

.........................................Mirrors . 80......................................Windows . 70

.........Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts . 17............................Protecting Adults . 12

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

........................Protecting Children . 18.......Protecting Larger Children . 29

.........Protecting Small Children . 26

...................Radiator Overheating . 229.......................Radio Sound System . 94

...................Readiness Codes . 235, 260..Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement . 202

............................Rear View Mirror . 80................Reclining the Seat-backs . 69

.......Recommended Shift Speeds . 138

Index

M

N

O

P

R

V

Recovery Vehicle, Emergency.......................................Towing . 245

.............................Reminder Lights . 45.......................Remote Transmitter . 63

Replacement Information................................Air Cleaner . 176

..........................Engine Coolant . 167................Engine Oil and Filter . 163

..........................................Fuses . 239................................Light Bulbs . 198

....................................Schedule . 150................................Spark Plugs . 178

...........................................Tires . 193.............................Wiper Blades . 184

Replacing Seat Belts After a............................................Crash . 34

...............................Restraint, Child . 19................................Rotation, Tire . 192

........................................Safety Belts . 8............Safety Defects, Reporting . 266.............Safety Labels, Location of . 41

...............................Safety Messages . ii

...........................................Seat Belts . 8...............Additional Information . 33

.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 17.....................................Cleaning . 212

......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 33................................Maintenance . 34

......Reminder Light and Beeper . 46...................System Components . 33

...............Use During Pregnancy . 17........................Seats, Adjusting the . 69

...............................Serial Number . 248...........................Service Intervals . 150

.............................Service Manual . 267.........Service Station Procedures . 121

ShiftingThe 6-speed Manual

.........................Transmission . 137Side Marker Lights, Bulb

.........................Replacement in . 200...............................Signaling Turns . 55

6-speed Manual Transmission...............Checking Fluid Level . 172

................................Shifting the . 137.....................................Snow Tires . 195

...................Solvent-type Cleaners . 208..................................Sound System . 94

Spare Tire......................................Inflating . 218

............................Specifications . 251................Spark Plugs, Replacing . 178

....................Specifications Charts . 250................................Speed Control . 115...................................Speedometer . 49

..........SRS, Additional Information . 36...Additional Safety Precautions . 39

How the Automatic Seat Belt....................Tensioners Work . 34

How the SRS Indicator.......................................Works . 38

...........How Your Airbags Work . 36........................SRS Components . 36

..................................SRS Service . 39..................SRS Indicator Light . 38, 47.......................Starting the Engine . 135

In Cold Weather at High..................................Altitude . 136

................With a Dead Battery . 226..............State Emissions Testing . 260

........Steam Coming from Engine . 229Steering Wheel

.............Anti-theft Column Lock . 60.....................Stereo Sound System . 94

Index

S

VI

CONTINUED

...........................Storing Your Car . 206.......................................Stuck Car . 243

Supplemental Restraint System......................................Servicing . 39

.........................SRS Indicator . 38, 47...............Tensioners, Seat Belts . 34

.....................................Tachometer . 49......Taillights, Changing Bulbs in . 202

.Taking Care of the Unexpected . 217Technical Descriptions

......DOT Tire Quality Grading . 252.....Emissions Control Systems . 257

.....................Oxygenated Fuels . 255Three Way Catalytic

...............................Converter . 259.......................Temperature Gauge . 49

...................Tensioners, Seat Belts . 34..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 259

....................................Tire Chains . 195.........Tire, How to Change a Flat . 219

...........................Tire Information . 254...............................................Tires . 189

..............................Air Pressure . 189

...................................Balancing . 192.........................Checking Wear . 191

.................Compact Spare Tire . 218......DOT Tire Quality Grading . 252

......................................Inflation . 189..................................Inspection . 191...................................Replacing . 193

......................................Rotating . 192...........................................Snow . 195

............................Specifications . 251...................Tools, Tire Changing . 219

Towing......................A Trailer, Do Not . 145

................Emergency Wrecker . 245..................Trailer, Do Not Tow a . 145

TransmissionChecking Fluid Level, 6-speed

..........Manual Transmission . 172...........................Fluid Selection . 172

..............Identification Number . 248Shifting the 6-speed Manual

.........................Transmission . 137.....................................Treadwear . 252.......................................Trip Meter . 51

................................................Trunk . 66........Emergency Trunk Opener . 67

.................................Opening the . 66...................Open Monitor Light . 47

....................................Turn Signals . 55

......................Vehicle Dimensions . 250....Vehicle Identification Number . 248

.............................Vehicle Storage . 206........................................Ventilation . 88

.................................................VIN . 248...............................Vinyl Cleaning . 212

..................................Viscosity, Oil . 162

.....................Underside, Cleaning . 213Unexpected, Taking Care

..........................................of the . 217....Uniform Tire Quality Grading . 252

........................Unleaded Gasoline . 120.....................Upholstery Cleaning . 211

.......Used Oil, How to Dispose of . 164

Index

T

U

V

VII

.............WARNING, Explanation of . ii.........Warning Labels, Location of . 41

....................Warranty Coverages . 265Washer, Windshield

........Checking the Fluid Level . 171.....................................Operation . 56

.........................................Washing . 208..................Waxing and Polishing . 209

...........................................Wheels . 194............Alignment and Balance . 192

......Cleaning Aluminum Alloys . 210......................................Wrench . 219

Windows.....................................Cleaning . 213

..................Operating the Power . 70Windshield

.....................................Cleaning . 213.....................................Defroster . 91

.......................................Washers . 56Wipers, Windshield

.......................Changing Blades . 184.....................................Operation . 55

....................................Worn Tires . 191.....Wrecker, Emergency Towing . 245

Index

W

VIII

Service Information Summary

Gasoline: Tire Pressure (measured cold):

Brake Fluid:

6-speed Manual TransmissionFluid:

Spare Tire Pressure:Recommended Engine Oil:

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Capacity:1.6 US qt (1.5 )

Honda Heavy Duty Brake FluidDOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 orDOT 4 brake fluid as a temporaryreplacement (see page ).

Front:

Front:

Rear:

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

Premium unleaded gasoline,pump octane number of 91 orhigher.

API premium grade 10W-30detergent oil (see page ).

Oil change capacity (includingfilter):

5.1 US qt (4.8 )

Honda Manual TransmissionFluid preferred, or an SAE 10W-30or 10W-40 motor oil as atemporary replacement (see page

).

161

172

174

13.2 US gal (50 )

Documents

200 S2000 Online Reference Owner's Manual - Hondatechinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/OM/AH/AS20303OM/... · 2003 S2000 Online Reference Owner's Manual . Use these links (and links throughout