1997 Honda Accord Wagon Owners Manual

1997 Accord Wagon 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 Driver and Passenger Safety .............................................................................................................. 3 Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls................................................................................................................. 27 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. 61 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 85 What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 97 The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance..................................................................................................................................... 117 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 161 Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected...................................................................................................... 169 This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 189 ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. only)............................................................................. 201 A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 207 How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...................................................................................................................................................... I Gas Station Information A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

Introduction

Congratulations! Your selection of a 1997 Accord Wagon was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.

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

Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty booklet thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights and responsibilities.

Maintaining your vehicle according to the schedules given in this manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. When your vehicle needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's staff is specially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns.

symbol. This

As you read this manual, you will find information that is preceded by a NOTICE information is intended to help you avoid damage to your Honda, other property, or the environment.

Preface

Safety Messages

Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And operating this vehicle safely is an important responsibility.

To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.

Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining your vehicle. You must use your own good judgement.

Preface

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

Safety Labels — on the vehicle.

Safety Messages — preceded by a safety alert symbol words, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.

and one of three

These signal words mean:

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you do not follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you do not follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you do not follow instructions.

Safety Headings — such as Important Safety Reminders or Important Safety Precautions.

Safety Section — such as Driver and Passenger Safety.

Instructions — how to use this vehicle correctly and safely.

This entire book is filled with important safety information - please read it carefully.

Driver and Passenger Safety

This section gives you important information about occupant protection. It shows how to use seat belts properly. It explains the Supplemental Restraint System. And it gives useful information about how to protect infants and children in your car. Your Occupant Protection System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 4
The Seat Belt System

and How It Works . . . . . . . .. 5
Why Wear Seat Belts . . . . .. 5
Important Safety Reminders 5
Seat Belt System Components . . . . . . . . . . .. 5
Lap/Shoulder Belt . . . . . . .. 6
Lap Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 6
Wearing Seat Belts Properly 7
Wearing a Lap/

Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . .. 7
Wearing the Lap Belt . . . . .. 9
Advice for Pregnant Women 10
Seat Belt Maintenance . . .. 10

Supplemental Restraint System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 11
SRS Components . . . . . . .. 11
What Happens in a Crash . 11
Important Facts About Airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 12
How the Driver's Airbag Works . . . . . . . . .. 13
How the Passenger's Airbag Works . . . . . . . . .. 14
How the SRS Indicator Light Works . .. 15
System Service . . . . . . . .. 15
System Service Precautions 15
Additional Safety Information 16
Seat-Back Position . . . . . .. 16
Head Restraint Position . .. 16
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . .. 17
Storing Cargo Safely . . . .. 17
Driving With Pets . . . . . .. 17
Child Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 18
Where Should Children Sit? 18
Important Safety Reminders . . . . . . . . . . .. 19

General Guidelines for Restraining Children Under 40 Ib (18 kg) . . . .. 19
Restraining an Infant Who Weighs Less Than 20 Ib (9 kg) . . . . . . . . . .. 20
Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 20 and 40 Ib (9 and 18 kg) . . . . .. 20
Restraining a Child Who Weighs Over 40 Ib (18 kg) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 21
Securing a Child Seat With a Lap/Shoulder Belt 22
Using Child Restraints With Tethers . . . . . . . . . .. 22
Storing a Child Seat . . . . .. 23
Alcohol and Drugs . . . . . . . .. 23
Carbon Monoxide Hazard . .. 24
Safety Labels . . . . . . . . . . . .. 25

Driver and Passenger Safety

Your Occupant Protection System

Your Honda is equipped with seat belts and other features that work together to protect you and your passengers during a crash.

Seat belts are the most important part of your occupant protection system. When worn properly, seat belts can reduce the chance of serious injury or death in a crash.

For added protection during a severe frontal collision, your Honda has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with airbags for the driver and front seat passenger.

Two indicator lights are also part of your safety system. One reminds you to make sure you and your passengers wear seat belts. The other alerts you to a possible problem with your supplemental restraint system (see page 15).

Driver and Passenger Safety

The seats, head restraints, and door locks also play a role in occupant safety. For example, reclining the seat-back can decrease the effectiveness of your seat belt. Head restraints can help protect your neck and head, especially during rear-end impacts. Door locks help keep your doors from being accidentally opened during a crash.

To get the maximum protection from your occupant protection system, check the following before you drive away:

Everyone in the car is wearing a seat belt properly (see page 7).

Infants and small children are properly secured in child safety seats (see page 18).

All doors and the tailgate are closed and locked (see page 17).

Seat-backs are upright and head restraints are properly adjusted (see pages 16 and 50).

There are no loose items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash or sudden stop (see page 17).

By following these guidelines, you can reduce injuries to yourself and your passengers in many crash situations. Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes.

The Seat Belt System and How It Works Why Wear Seat Belts Wearing seat belts, and wearing them properly, is fundamental to your safety and the safety of your passengers.

Not wearing a seat belt increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash.

During a crash or emergency stop, seat belts can help keep you from being thrown against the inside of the car, against other occupants, or out of the car.

Of course, seat belts cannot completely protect you in every crash. But, in most cases, seat belts reduce your chance of serious injury. They can even save your life. That is why many states require you to wear seat belts.

Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

Important Safety Reminders Seat belts are designed for adults and larger children. All infants and small children must be properly restrained in child safety seats (see page 18).

A pregnant woman needs to wear a seat belt to protect herself and her unborn child (see page 10).

Two people should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash.

Do not place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This could increase the chance of serious injuries in a crash.

Do not put shoulder belt pads or other accessories on seat belts. They can reduce the effectiveness of the belts and increase the chance of injury.

Seat Belt System Components Your Honda has seat belts in all five seating positions. The front seats and the outside positions of the rear seat have lap/shoulder belts. The center position of the rear seat has a lap belt.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Your seat belt system also includes a light on the instrument panel to remind you to fasten your seat belt and to make sure your passengers fasten theirs. This light comes on when you turn on the ignition if you have not fastened your seat belt. A beeper also sounds for several seconds (see page 30).

The following pages cover more about the seat belt components and how they work.

Lap/Shoulder Belt This style of seat belt has a single belt that goes over your shoulder, across your chest, and across your hips.

Each lap/shoulder belt has an emergency locking retractor. In normal driving, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat

Driver and Passenger Safety

while it keeps some tension on the belt. During a collision or sudden stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body.

UPPER SEAT BELT ANCHOR

To retractor.

LAP PORTION

SHOULDER PORTION

LATCH PLATE

BUCKLE

The lap/shoulder belt retractor in each passenger seating position has an additional locking mechanism that is intended to secure a child seat (see page 22). If the shoulder part of the belt is pulled all the way out, this

mechanism will engage. The belt will retract, but it will not allow the passenger to move freely. If the belt feels too tight, unlatch it, let it retract fully, then pull it out as far as needed.

Lap Belt The lap belt has one manually adjusted belt that fits across the hips. It is similar to safety belts used in airplanes.

BUCKLE

LATCH PLATE

Wearing Seat Belts Properly

You can increase the effectiveness of your seat belts if you take a little time to read the following pages and make sure you know how to wear seat belts properly.

Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash.

Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt

Before putting on the seat belt, move the driver's seat as far back

as is practical while still allowing you to maintain full control of the vehicle. Make sure the seat-back is upright (see page 16). The front seat passenger should move the seat as far back as possible.

1. Pull the latch plate across

your body, and insert it into the buckle. Tug on the belt to make sure the latch is securely locked.

2. Check that the belt is not

twisted.

3. Position the lap portion of the belt as low as possible across your hips, not across your stomach. This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

4. Pull up on the shoulder part of

the belt to remove any slack. Make sure the belt goes over your collarbone and across your chest.

Front seats: Adjust the belt anchor by squeezing the two buttons and sliding the anchor downward (it has four positions).

To unlatch the seat belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. Guide the belt across your body to the door pillar. After you exit the vehicle, make sure the seat belt is out of the way and will not get closed in the door.

5.

If the belt crosses your neck, you need to adjust the belt anchor height or your seating position.

Rear seats: Move toward the center of the seat until the belt fits over your collarbone.

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Wearing the Lap Belt

1. Pull the latch plate across your

hips, and insert it into the buckle marked CENTER.

2. Position the belt as low as

possible across your hips and pelvic bones, not across your stomach. Pull the loose end of the belt to adjust for a snug but comfortable fit.

To unlatch the belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle.

If the belt is too short, hold the latch plate at a right angle, and pull to extend the belt. Insert the latch plate into the buckle.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Each time you have a check-up, ask your doctor if it's okay for you to drive and how you should position a lap/shoulder seat belt.

Advice for Pregnant Women

Protecting the mother is the best way to protect her unborn child. Therefore, a pregnant woman should wear a properly-positioned seat belt whenever she drives or rides in a car. If possible, use a lap/shoulder seat belt, remembering to keep the lap portion as low as possible (see page 7).

Seat Belt Maintenance

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

Pull out each belt fully and look for frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check that the latches work smoothly and the lap/shoulder belts retract easily. Any belt not in good condition or not working properly should be replaced.

If a seat belt is worn during a crash, have your dealer replace the belt and inspect the anchors for damage.

For information on how to clean your seat belts, see page 164.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Supplemental Restraint System

Your Honda is equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) to help protect the head and chest of the driver and front seat passenger during a severe frontal collision.

This system does not replace your seat belts. It supplements, or adds to, the protection offered by seat belts and other occupant protection features.

Not wearing a seat belt increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even if you have airbags.

Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

SRS Components Your supplemental restraint system includes:

One airbag in the steering wheel for the driver and another in the dashboard for the passenger. Sensors that can detect a severe frontal collision. A sophisticated electronic system that continually monitors the sensors, control unit, airbag activators, and all related wiring when the ignition is ON (II). An indicator light on the instrument panel to alert you to a possible problem with the system. Emergency backup power in case your car's electrical system is disconnected in a crash.

What Happens in a Crash

If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the sensors will detect rapid deceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate the airbags.

During a crash, your seat belts will help to restrain your lower body and torso. The airbags will provide a cushion to absorb crash energy and help keep the head and chest of the driver and front passenger from striking the interior of the car.

After inflating, the airbags will immediately deflate. The entire process, from detection to deflation, takes a fraction of a second. This process occurs so quickly that you may not hear the loud noise created by the airbag

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Just from viewing the vehicle damage after a crash, it is very difficult to accurately determine if the airbags should or should not have inflated. In some cases where the airbag did not inflate, extensive visible damage indicated that the car absorbed much of the crash energy, and the airbags were not needed. In other cases, a severe jolt, such as an impact to the undercarriage, may not cause extensive body damage but may still cause the airbags to inflate.

inflators or realize what has happened.

After the crash, you may see what looks like smoke. This is actually powder from the airbag's surface. People with respiratory problems may experience some temporary discomfort from the chemicals used by the airbag's activators.

Important Facts About Airbags

Airbags inflate only when needed; in a severe frontal collision. A severe collision would be similar to a crash into a parked vehicle of similar size and weight at 25 mph (40 km/h). Airbags will not inflate in a moderate frontal collision, or during a rear impact, side impact, or rollover - even if the impact is severe.

Driver and Passenger Safety

FRONTAL COLLISION RANGE

Airbags inflate and deflate only once. They cannot protect you during any additional impacts that can occur during a crash sequence.

Injuries, including fatal injuries, can occur in a severe collision, even if seat belts are worn properly and the airbags inflate. No safety system can provide complete protection in a severe crash.

How the Driver's Airbag Works

If you ever have a severe frontal collision, your airbag will instantly inflate to help protect your head and chest.

might cause some facial abrasions or other injuries. To reduce the possibility of injury, you should always sit back as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control.

After the bag completely inflates, it immediately starts deflating so it won't interfere with your visibility, ability to steer, or ability to operate other controls.

The total time for inflation and deflation is a fraction of a second. You may not even be aware that the airbag has been fully inflated.

The driver's airbag is stored in the center of the steering wheel. For your safety, do not attach any items to the steering wheel. They could interfere with the proper operation of the airbag. Or, if the airbag inflates, they could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone.

To do its job, the airbag inflates with considerable force. So, while it can reduce serious injuries and even save your life, the airbag

Driver and Passenger Safety

How the Passenger's Airbag Works

If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the passenger's airbag will inflate at the same time as the driver's airbag.

This airbag is quite large and inflates with considerable force. It can seriously hurt a front seat passenger who is not in the proper position and wearing the seat belt properly.

Front seat passengers should move the seat as far back as practical and sit well back in the seat.

We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.

The passenger's airbag is stored near the top of the dashboard, under a lid marked SRS. Do not place any objects on top of this lid. If the airbag inflates, those objects can be propelled inside the car and possibly hurt someone.

Driver and Passenger Safety

S R S

How the SRS Indicator Light Works

The purpose of the SRS light on your instrument panel is to alert you to a potential problem with your supplemental restraint system. Have the system checked if:

The light does not come on when you turn the ignition ON (II).

The light stays on after the engine starts.

The light comes on or flashes while you are driving.

If you see any of these indications, the airbag may not work when needed in an accident. Take the car to your dealer promptly for diagnosis and service.

System Service

Your supplemental restraint system is virtually maintenance- free. The only scheduled maintenance is an inspection of the system by the dealer when the car is ten years old. For your convenience, the car's production date is on a label on the driver's doorjamb.

If either of the following happens, you must have an authorized Honda dealer service the system. There are no parts you can safely service.

If your airbags ever inflate, the airbags and control unit must be replaced. Do not try to remove or discard the airbags yourself. This must be done by a Honda dealer.

If the SRS indicator light alerts you to a problem, have the supplemental restraint system inspected as soon as possible. If you ignore this indication, the airbags might not inflate when you need them.

System Service Precautions

Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of the supplemental restraint system. Modifications could make the system ineffective.

Do not tamper with the system's components or wiring. This could cause the airbags to inflate inadvertently, possibly injuring someone very seriously.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Safety Information

For information on how to adjust the seat-back, see page 49.

Head Restraint Position

Head restraints can help protect you from whiplash and other injuries. For the best protection, adjust the top of the restraint so it is even with the tops of your ears, or as high as possible. For instructions on adjusting the head restraints, see page 50.

Tell anyone who works on your car that you have a supplemental restraint system. Failure to follow the procedures and precautions in the official Honda service manual could result in personal injury or damage to the system.

Scrapping an entire car that has uninflated airbags can be dangerous. Get assistance from a Honda dealer if your car must be scrapped.

If you sell your car, please be sure to tell the new owner that the car has a supplemental restraint system. Alert them to the information and precautions in this part of the Owner's Manual.

Driver and Passenger Safety

The seat belts and airbags are obviously important parts of your occupant protection system.

In addition, you should know that sitting upright, adjusting the head restraints properly, locking the doors, and stowing things properly can also increase your safety and possibly even save your life.

Seat-Back Position

The seat-backs should be in an upright position for you and your passengers to get the most protection from the seat belts.

If you recline a seat-back, you reduce the protective capability of your seat belt. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk that you will slide under the belt in a severe crash and be very seriously injured.

Door Locks

It is not safe to leave your car doors unlocked. A passenger, especially a child, could open a door and accidentally fall out. Also, there is a greater chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash when the doors are not locked.

Storing Cargo Safely

Before you drive, make sure you first securely store or tie down any items that could be thrown around the car and hurt someone, or interfere with your ability to operate the controls.

Do not put any items on top of the tonneau cover. They can block your view, and they could be thrown about the car in a crash.

Be sure to keep compartment doors closed when the car is moving. If a front passenger hits the door of an open glove box, for example, he could injure his knees.

For more information on loading cargo, see page 93.

Driving With Pets

Loose pets can be a hazard while you are driving. An unrestrained pet can interfere with your ability to drive the car. In a crash or sudden stop, loose pets or cages can be thrown around inside the car and hurt you or your passengers. It is also for their safety that pets should be properly restrained in your car.

The recommended way to restrain a medium-sized or larger dog is with a special traveling harness. This harness can be secured to the rear seat with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are available at pet stores.

A small dog, cat, or other small animal will be safest in a pet carrier with rigid sides. Choose a style that allows you to secure it to the car's seat by routing a seat belt through the carrier's handle.

For further information, contact your veterinarian or local animal protection society.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Child Safety

Children depend on adults to protect them. To help make sure we do, every state and Canadian province has laws requiring infants and young children to be properly restrained whenever they ride in a car.

An infant or child who is not properly restrained can be killed or seriously injured in a crash.

Be sure any child too small for seat belts is properly secured in a child restraint.

Where Should Children Sit? According to accident statistics, children of all sizes and ages are

Driver and Passenger Safety

safer when they are properly restrained in the rear seat rather than the front seat.

We recommend that, whenever possible, you secure your child's infant or toddler seat in the center position of the rear seat with the lap belt.

We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the

airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.

We also recommend that any child who is too large to use an infant or toddler seat ride in one of the outside positions of the rear seat. The child should then wear a lap/shoulder belt properly for protection.

If a child is not large enough to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly, you should use a booster seat.

Important Safety Reminders

Never hold a baby or child on your lap when riding in a car. If you are wearing your seat belt, the violent forces created during a crash will tear the child from your arms. The child could be seriously hurt or killed.

If you are holding a child and not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could crush the child against the car's interior.

Never put your seat belt over yourself and a child. During a crash, the belt could press deep into the child, causing serious internal injuries.

Two children should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash.

If you are driving with small children in the car, you should use the childproof door locks to prevent them from opening the rear doors (see page 46).

For their safety, do not leave children alone in your car without adult supervision.

General Guidelines for Restraining Children Under 40 Ib (18kg) Use an approved child seat. The seat must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213
(FMVSS-213). Look for the manufacturer's statement of compliance on the box and seat.

Use a seat of the right size. Make sure the seat fits your child. Check the seat manufacturer's instructions and labels for height and weight limits.

Secure the child seat to the car. All approved child seats are designed to be secured to the car seat by the lap belt or the lap belt portion of a lap/shoulder belt. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the car can be endangered in a crash.

To properly route a seat belt through a child seat, follow the seat-maker's instructions. If you use a lap/shoulder belt, be sure to follow the instructions for securing a child seat with a lap/shoulder belt on page 22.

Secure the child in the child seat. Make sure the infant or child is firmly secured to the child seat. Use the straps provided, and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Restraining an Infant Who Weighs Less Than 20 Ib (9 kg)

An infant up to about 20 Ib (9 kg) must be restrained in an infant seat or a convertible seat designed for a baby. Because infants must ride in a reclining position, be sure the infant seat always faces the REAR of the car as shown.

Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 20 and 40 Ib (9 and 18 kg) Toddler seats are designed for children who weigh between 20
and 40 Ib (9 and 18 kg).

The preferred place to put a toddler seat is in the center position of the rear seat. Use the car's lap belt to secure the seat to the car.

We recommend that, whenever possible, you put the infant seat in the center position of the rear seat and secure it to the car with the lap belt.

If you decide to put an infant seat in any other seating position, be sure to follow the instructions for securing a child seat with a lap/shoulder belt on page 22.

We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

Driver and Passenger Safety

If you decide to put a toddler seat in an outside seating position, be sure to follow the instructions for securing a child seat with a lap/shoulder belt on page 22.

If you are using a toddler seat in the front passenger's seat, move the passenger's seat as far back as possible before installing the child seat. If the passenger bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.

Restraining a Child Who Weighs Over 40 Ib (18 kg) We recommend that, whenever possible, a child who has outgrown a toddler seat ride in one of the outside positions of the rear seat and use a lap/shoulder belt.

Put the lap/shoulder belt on your child and check its fit. The

shoulder belt should fit over the collarbone and across the chest. The lap belt should sit low on your child's hips, not across the stomach.

Several styles of booster seats are available. We recommend a design that allows the child to use the car's lap/shoulder belt.

Whichever style you select, follow the booster seat manufacturer's instructions.

If the shoulder belt crosses the neck, have your child move toward the center of the rear seat until the belt fits properly. If the belt still crosses the child's neck, you should use a booster seat.

Driver and Passenger Safety

4. Allow the belt to slowly feed

back into the retractor. You should hear a clicking noise that indicates the locking mechanism has engaged.

5. After the belt has retracted

fully, pull up on the shoulder portion to remove any slack.

6. Push and pull on the child seat

to verify that it is held firmly in place. If not, unlatch the seat belt, allow it to retract fully, and repeat these steps.

To unlatch the seat belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. Guide the belt across to the door pillar. If the belt doesn't retract easily, pull it out and check for twists or kinks.

Securing a Child Seat With a Lap/Shoulder Belt

The lap/shoulder belt retractors in the passenger seating positions have a built-in locking mechanism intended to secure a child seat. When you are placing a child seat in one of these outside seating positions, do the following:

1. Place the child seat in the

desired seating position. Route the lap/shoulder belt through the seat according to the seat manufacturer's instructions. 2. Insert the latch plate into the buckle. Make sure it is fully latched.

3. Slowly pull the shoulder

portion of the belt out of the retractor until it stops.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Using Child Restraints With Tethers Your Honda has three attachment points for tether-style child seats. Two are on the floor behind each rear seat. A third attachment point is at the headliner at the tailgate opening. To access, remove the plug cap.

TETHER ATTACHMENT POINTS

If you are not sure how to install the bracket, have it installed by your authorized Honda dealer. If you need an anchor plate and mounting hardware, contact your Honda dealer.

Storing a Child Seat

When you are not using an infant seat or other child restraint, either remove it or make sure it is properly secured so it cannot be thrown around the car during a crash.

Alcohol and Drugs

Driving a car requires your full attention and alertness. Traffic conditions change rapidly. You must be able to react just as rapidly. Alcohol or drugs directly affect your alertness and ability to react. Even prescription and non-prescription medicines can have this effect.

There are laws that deal with drunken driving. These laws define how much alcohol it takes in your system to be legally "drunk." However, your judgement and reaction time get worse with every drink - even the first one.

The only safe thing you can do is never drink and drive. This can be done if you plan ahead. If you know you are going to be drinking, make plans to ride with a friend who will not be drinking.

What if you find that you've been drinking and cannot get a ride from a friend? Find alternative transportation. Call a taxi. Take a bus. Many communities have transportation services devoted to shuttling people who have been drinking.

If you have no choice but to drive, stop drinking and give yourself lots of time to sober up. Time is the only thing that can make you sober. Things like coffee or a cold shower don't speed up the process.

If you see friends trying to get behind the wheel after drinking, stop them. Drive them yourself or arrange other transportation. If you think you are interfering, remember that your interference will keep them from sharing the road with you.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Your vehicle's exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas. You should have no problem with carbon monoxide entering the vehicle in normal driving if you maintain your vehicle properly. Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever:

The vehicle is raised for an oil change.

You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust.

The vehicle was in an accident that may have damaged the underside.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and even kill you.

Avoid any enclosed areas or activities that expose you to carbon monoxide.

High levels of carbon monoxide can collect rapidly in enclosed areas, such as a garage. Do not run the engine with the garage door closed. Even with the door open, run the engine only long enough to move the vehicle out of the garage.

With the tailgate open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your vehicle's interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the tailgate open, open all the windows and set the heating and cooling system as follows: 1. Select Fresh Air

(Recirculation off).

mode.

2. Select the 3. Turn the fan on high speed. 4. Set the temperature control to

a comfortable setting.

If you must sit in your parked vehicle, even in an unconfined area, with the engine running, adjust the heating and cooling system as shown above.

Safety Labels

These labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully, and don't remove them.

If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer for a replacement.

BATTERY

RADIATOR CAP

Driver and Passenger Safety

Instruments and Controls

This section gives information about the controls and displays that contribute to the daily operation of your Honda. All the essential controls are within easy reach.

Control Locations . . . . . . . .. 28
Indicator Lights . . . . . . . . . .. 29
Gauges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 33
. . . . . . . . . .. 33
Speedometer Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . .. 33
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 33
Trip Meter . . . . . . . . . . . .. 33
Fuel Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . .. 34
Temperature Gauge . . . . .. 34
Maintenance Required

Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 34

Controls Near the

Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . .. 35
Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . .. 36
Instrument Panel Brightness . . . . . . . . . . .. 37

Turn Signals . . . . . . . . . . .. 37
Windshield Wipers . . . . .. 37
Rear Window Wiper/Washer . . . . . . . .. 38
Windshield Washers . . . .. 38
Hazard Warning . . . . . . . .. 39
Rear Window Defogger . .. 39
Steering Wheel Adjustment 40
Steering Wheel Controls . . .. 41
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . .. 41
Keys and Locks . . . . . . . . . .. 43
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 43
Ignition Switch . . . . . . . .. 44
Power Door Locks . . . . . .. 45
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . .. 45
Childproof Door Locks . .. 46
Remote Transmitter . . . . .. 46
Tailgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 48
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . .. 48

Seat Adjustments

. . . . . . . .. 49
Front Seat Adjustments . .. 49
Driver's Seat Power Height Adjustment . . . . .. 50
Driver's Lumbar Support . 50
Head Restraints . . . . . . . .. 50
Folding Rear Seat . . . . . .. 51
Rear Seat Armrest . . . . . .. 51
Power Windows . . . . . . . . . .. 52
Moonroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 53
Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 54

Adjusting the Power Mirrors 54

Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . .. 55
Digital Clock . . . . . . . . . . . .. 55
Beverage Holder . . . . . . . . .. 56
Coin Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 57
Console Compartment . . . . .. 57
Cigarette Lighter . . . . . . . . .. 57
Ashtrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 58
. . . . . . . . . . . .. 58
Interior Light Courtesy Lights . . . . . . . . . .. 59

Instruments and Controls

Control Locations

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

DIGITAL CLOCK

HEATING/COOLING CONTROL

HORN

AUDIO SYSTEM

DOOR LOCK

MIRROR CONTROLS

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES

FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE

Instruments and Controls

Indicator Lights

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR

The instrument panel has many indicators to give you important information about your car.

Lamp Check Many of the indicator lights come on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II), allowing you to see that they are working. If an indicator does not light during this test, it cannot alert you if that system develops a problem. Have the dealer check your car for burned-out bulbs or other problems.

DOOR AND BRAKE LAMP MONITOR

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

LOW FUEL INDICATOR

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

Instruments and Controls

Seat Belt Reminder Light

Charging System Indicator

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder to you and your passengers to protect yourselves by fastening the seat belts. A beeper also sounds if you have not fastened your seat belt.

If you do not fasten your seat belt, the beeper will stop after a few seconds but the light stays on until you do. Both the light and the beeper stay off if you fasten your seat belt before turning on the ignition.

If this light comes on when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged. For complete information, see page 180.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

The engine can be severely damaged if this light comes on when the engine is running. For complete information, see page 179.

BRAKE

Parking Brake and Brake System Indicator Light

This light has two functions: 1.

It lights as a reminder that you have not released the parking brake. Driving with the parking brake applied can damage the brakes and tires, and cause the anti-lock brake system to turn off on cars equipped with ABS.

2.

If it remains lit after you release the parking brake, or comes on while driving, it can indicate that the brake fluid level is low. This is normally due to worn brake pads. Have your dealer check the braking system for worn pads or fluid leaks.

Instruments and Controls

S R S

Supplemental Restraint System Indicator

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it indicates a problem in the supplemental restraint system. See page 15.

A B S

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Indicator

On cars equipped with ABS This light normally comes on when you turn the ignition ON (II) and goes off after the engine starts. If it comes on at any other time, there is a problem in the ABS. If this happens, take the

car to your dealer to have it checked. With the light on, your car still has normal braking ability but no anti-lock.

Door and Brake Lamp Monitor

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

See page 181.

The appropriate light comes on in this display if any door or the tailgate is not closed tightly. If a brake lamp does not work, the BRAKE LAMP indicator comes on when you push the brake pedal with the ignition switch ON (II).

A burned out brake light is a hazard when drivers behind you cannot tell you are braking. Have your brake lights repaired right away.

All the lights in the monitor display come on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II).

Instruments and Controls

High Beam Indicator

Low Fuel Indicator

This light comes on as a reminder that you must refuel soon.

This light comes on with the high beam headlights. See page 36 for information on the headlight controls.

CRUISE CONTROL

Cruise Control Indicator

This lights when you set the cruise control. See page 41 for information on operating the cruise control.

Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Indicators

The left or right turn signal light blinks when you signal a lane change or turn. If the light does not blink or blinks rapidly, it usually means one of the turn signal bulbs is burned out (see page 154). Replace it as soon as possible, since other drivers cannot see that you are signaling.

When you turn on the Hazard Warning switch, both turn signal lights blink. All turn signals on the outside of the car should flash.

Instruments and Controls

Gauges

TEMPERATURE GAUGE

TACHOMETER

ODOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

TRIP METER

TRIP METER RESET BUTTON

Speedometer This shows your speed in miles per hour (mph). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in kilometers per hour (km/h).

Tachometer The tachometer shows the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). To protect the engine from damage, never drive with the tachometer needle in the red zone.

Odometer The odometer shows the total miles your car has been driven. It is illegal under federal law to disconnect, reset, or alter the odometer with the intent to change the number of miles or kilometers indicated.

Trip Meter This meter shows the number of miles driven since you last reset it. To reset it, push the trip meter reset button.

Instruments and Controls

you exceed 7,500 miles (12,000 km), the indicator will turn red.

Your dealer will reset the indicator when he performs the scheduled maintenance. If someone else performs the maintenance, reset the indicator by inserting your key in the slot below the indicator.

SLOT

INDICATOR

Fuel Gauge

This shows how much fuel you have. It is most accurate when the car is on level ground. It may show slightly more or less than the actual amount when you are driving on curvy or hilly roads.

The gauge stays at the same fuel level reading after you turn off the ignition. When you add fuel, the gauge slowly changes to the new reading after you turn the ignition back ON (II).

Temperature Gauge

This shows the temperature of the engine's coolant. During normal operation, the pointer should rise from the bottom white mark to about the middle of the gauge. In severe driving conditions, such as

Instruments and Controls

very hot weather or a long period of uphill driving, the pointer may rise to the upper white mark. If it reaches the red (hot) mark, pull safely to the side of the road. Turn to page 131 for instructions and precautions on checking the engine's cooling system.

Maintenance Required Indicator

This indicator reminds you that it is nearing 7,500 miles (12,000 km) since the last scheduled maintenance. Refer to the Maintenance Schedules for Normal and Severe Driving Conditions on pages 122-123.

When the distance driven since the last scheduled maintenance nears 7,500 miles (12,000 km), the indicator will turn yellow. If

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS

MOONROOF SWITCH

CRUISE CONTROL

HEADLIGHTS/ TURN SIGNALS

TILT ADJUSTMENT

HORN

The two levers on the steering column contain controls for driving features you use most often. The left lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams. The right lever controls the windshield washers and wipers.

The rear window defogger switch is on the dashboard to the right of the steering column.

The controls under the left air vent are for the moonroof, cruise control, and instrument panel brightness.

The tilt adjustment lever on the underside of the steering column allows you to tilt the steering wheel.

Instruments and Controls

Headlights

The rotating switch on the left lever controls the lights. Turning this switch to the " " position turns on the parking lights, taillights, instrument panel lights, side-marker lights, and rear license plate lights. Turning the switch to the " " position turns on the headlights.

If you leave the lights on with the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0), you will hear a reminder chime when you open the driver's door.

To change between low beams and high beams, pull the turn signal lever toward you until you hear a click, then let go. The high beam indicator will light (see page 32).

To flash the high beams, pull the turn signal lever back lightly, then release it. The high beams will come on and go off.

The high beams will stay on for as long as you hold the lever back, no matter what position the headlight switch is in.

Instruments and Controls

Instrument Panel Brightness

Turn Signals

The knob on the dashboard to the right of the steering column controls the brightness of the instrument panel lights. Push the knob to get it to pop out. Turn the knob to adjust the brightness. Push the knob back in to lock your adjustment.

Signal a turn or lane change with this lever. Push down on the lever to signal a left turn, and up to signal a right rum. If you push it up or down all the way, the turn signal continues to blink even when you release the lever. It shuts off automatically as you complete the turn.

the proper direction, and hold it. The lever will return to the center position as soon as you release it.

Windshield Wipers

The right lever controls the windshield wipers and washers. The rotary switch at the end of the lever has three positions: INT : intermittent : low speed : high speed

To signal a lane change, push lightly on the turn signal lever in

continued

Instruments and Controls

In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. You can vary how often the wipers sweep the windshield by turning the INT TIME ring next to the rotary switch.

In low speed and high speed, the wipers run continuously.

To operate the wipers in mist mode, push the control lever down. The wipers run at high speed until you release the lever. This gives you a quick way to clear the windshield.

To activate the rear windshield wiper, turn the switch "ON." If you wish to use the wiper and washer, turn and hold the switch one position up from "ON."

Rear Window Wiper/Washer The rear window wiper switch is located next to the intermittent ring.

Windshield Washers

To clean the windshield, pull back on the wiper control lever. The washers spray until you release the lever. The wipers run at low speed while you are pulling the

Instruments and Controls

lever, then complete one more sweep of the windshield after you release it.

lights if you need to park in a dangerous area near heavy traffic or if your car is disabled.

itself off after about 25 minutes. It also shuts off when you turn off the ignition. You have to turn it on again when you restart the car.

Hazard Warning Push the red button to the left of the clock to turn on the hazard warning lights (four-way flashers). This causes all four outside turn signals and both indicators in the instrument panel to flash. Use the hazard warning

Rear Window Defogger The rear window defogger will clear fog, frost, and thin ice from the window. Push the defogger button to turn it on and off. The light in the button lights to show the defogger is on. If you do not turn it off, the defogger will shut

Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive.

The defogger wires on the inside of the rear window can be accidentally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side to side.

Instruments and Controls

1. Adjust the seat so you are a

comfortable distance from the pedals and can operate them safely.

2. The lever to tilt the steering wheel is under the steering column to the left. Push this lever all the way down.

3. Move the steering wheel up or

down to the desired position. Position the wheel so you can see all the instrument panel gauges and warning lights. Push the lever up to lock the steering wheel in that position.

4. Make sure you have securely locked the steering wheel in place by trying to move it up and down.

Steering Wheel Adjustment You can adjust the steering wheel height to suit your preference. Do this before you begin driving.

Adjusting the steering wheel position while driving may cause you to lose control of the car and be seriously injured in a crash.

Adjust the steering wheel only when the car is stopped.

Instruments and Controls

Steering Wheel Controls Cruise Control Cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. It should be used for cruising on straight, open highways. It is not recommended for conditions such as city driving, winding roads, slippery roads, heavy rain, or bad weather. You should have full control of the car under those conditions.

Improper use of the cruise control can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control only when traveling on open highways in good weather.

Using the Cruise Control 1. Push in the Cruise Control

Master Switch to the left of the steering column. The indicator in the switch will light.

3. Press and hold the SET/decel button on the steering wheel until the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel comes on. This shows the system is now activated.

RESUME/ accel

SET/ decel

2. Accelerate to the desired

cruising speed above 25 mph (40 km/h).

The set speed may vary slightly, particularly on hills.

Instruments and Controls

Changing the Set Speed You can increase the set cruising speed in either of two ways:

Press and hold the RESUME/accel button. The car will accelerate slowly. When you reach the desired cruising speed, release the button.

Push on the accelerator pedal. Accelerate to the desired cruising speed, and press the SET/decel button.

You can decrease the set cruising speed in either of two ways:

Press and hold the SET/decel button. The car will decelerate. Release the button when you reach the desired speed.

Tap the brake or clutch pedal lightly with your foot. The

Instruments and Controls

CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out. When the car slows to the desired speed, press the SET/decel button. The car will then maintain the desired speed.

Press the SET/decel and RESUME/accel buttons at the same time.

Press the Cruise Control Master Switch.

Even with the cruise control turned on, you can still use the accelerator pedal to speed up for passing. After completing the pass, take your foot off the accelerator pedal. The car will return to the set cruising speed.

Resting your foot on the brake or clutch pedal will cause the cruise control to cancel.

Canceling the Cruise Control You can cancel the cruise control in any of these ways:

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

When you tap the brake or clutch pedal (manual transmission cars), or press the SET and RESUME buttons at the same time, the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out and the car will begin to slow down. You can use the accelerator pedal in the normal way.

If you use the brake or clutch pedal to cancel cruise control, the system remembers the previously set cruising speed. To return to that speed, accelerate to above 25
mph (40 km/h), and press the RESUME/accel button until the

Keys and Locks Keys Your car comes with two kinds of keys: a master key and a valet key. The master key fits all locks on your car:

Ignition Doors Tailgate Glove box

VALET KEY MASTER KEY

KEY NUMBER PLATE

CRUISE CONTROL light comes on. The car will accelerate to the same cruising speed as before.

If you cancel cruise control by pressing the SET and RESUME buttons at the same time, the previously set cruising speed is erased. To use the cruise control, accelerate to the desired cruising speed, and press the SET/decel button.

Pressing the Cruise Control Master Switch turns the system completely off and erases the previous cruising speed from memory. To use the system again, refer to Using the Cruise Control.

The valet key works only in the ignition and the door locks. You can keep the glove box locked when you leave your car and valet key at a parking facility.

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

Remote Transmitter

EX models Your car comes with two remote transmitters; see page 46 for an explanation of the operation.

Instruments and Controls

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is on the right side of the steering column. It has four positions:

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

position. When you turn the key from LOCK to ACCESSORY, you may have to turn the steering wheel to release the anti-theft lock. To switch from ACCESSORY to LOCK, you must push the key in slightly as you turn it. If your car has an automatic transmission, it must also be in Park. The anti-theft lock will lock the steering column when you remove the key.

Removing the key from the ignition switch while driving locks the steering. This can cause you to lose control.

Remove the key from the ignition switch only when parked.

LOCK (0) — You can insert or remove the key only in this

Instruments and Controls

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

ON (II) — This is the normal key position when driving. All features and accessories on the car are usable. Several of the lights on the instrument panel come on as a test when you turn the ignition switch from ACCESSORY to ON (see page 29).

START (III) — Use this position only to start the engine. The switch returns to ON when you let go of the key.

You will hear a reminder beeper if you open either front door with the key in the LOCK or ACCESSORY position. Remove the key to turn it off.

Power Door Locks Each door has a master door lock switch. Either switch locks and unlocks all doors and the tailgate. Push the switch down to lock all doors and the tailgate, and up to unlock them.

MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

Door Locks Each door has a lock tab on top of the door panel. When you push down the lock tab on the driver's door, all doors and the tailgate lock. Pulling up the lock tab on the driver's door only unlocks that door. The lock tab on each passenger's door only locks and unlocks that door.

LOCK TAB

To lock any passenger's door when getting out of the car, push the lock tab down and close the door. To lock the driver's door, pull the outside door handle and push the lock tab down. Release the handle, then close the door.

All doors and the tailgate can be locked from the outside by using the key in either front door. All four doors and the tailgate will unlock when you use the key to unlock the passenger's door.

To unlock the driver's door from the outside, turn the key and release it. If you turn the key and hold it, all doors and the tailgate will unlock.

Instruments and Controls

Remote Transmitter EX models You can lock and unlock your vehicle with the remote transmitter. If you push the LOCK button, all doors and the tailgate will lock.

Childproof Door Locks The childproof door locks are designed to prevent children seated in the rear from accidentally opening the rear doors. Each rear door has a lock lever near the edge. With the lever in the LOCK position, the rear doors cannot be opened from the inside regardless of the position of