1996 Honda Accord Coupe Owners Manual

page 28.

Glove Box

Keys and Locks

An open glove box can cause serious injury to your passenger in a crash, even if the passenger is wearing the seat belt.

Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

MASTER KEY

GLOVE BOX

To protect items in the trunk when you need to give the key to someone else:

1. Lock the trunk release handle

with the master key.

2. Give the person the valet key.

Open the glove box by pulling the bottom of the handle. Close it with a firm push. Lock or unlock the glove box with the master key.

The glove box light comes on only when the instrument panel lights are on.

Instruments and Controls

Seat Adjustments

Front Seat Adjustments

To change the angle of the seat-back, pull up on the lever on the outside of the seat bottom. Move the seat-back to the desired position and release the lever. Let the seat-back latch in the new position.

Adjust the seat before you start driving.

To adjust the seat forward and backward, pull up on the lever under the seat cushion's front edge. Move the seat to the desired position and release the lever. Try to move the seat to make sure it is locked in position.

Instruments and Controls

Reclining the seat-back can decrease the protection you get from your seat belt in a crash.

You can slide under the seat belt and be seriously injured.

Adjust the seat-back to an upright position and sit well back in the seat.

Driver's Seat Power Height Adjustment

Driver's Seat Power Adjustments

Seat Adjustments

On EX model in the U.S., and EX-R model in Canada The height of your driver's seat is power adjustable. Pull up on the switch to raise the seat Push it down to lower the seat.

Optional on EX model in the U.S. The long horizontal switch adjusts the seat bottom in several directions. The short vertical switch adjusts the seat-back angle. Push the horizontal switch forward or backward to adjust the distance to the steering wheel and pedals.

Pull up or push down on the front of the switch to move the seat bottom's front edge up or down. Pull up or push down on the rear of the switch to move the rear of the seat bottom up or down.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Seat Adjustments

Pull the center of the horizontal switch up to raise the seat. Push it down to lower the seat.

Adjust the seat-back angle by pushing the rear switch in the direction you want to move.

Instruments and Controls

Reclining the seat-back can decrease the protection you get from your seat belt in a crash.

You can slide under the seat belt and be seriously injured.

Adjust the seat-back to an upright position and sit well back in the seat.

Driver's Lumbar Support

Rear Seat Access

Seat Adjustments

On EX model in the U.S., and EX-R model in Canada Vary the lumbar support by moving the lever on the right side of the seat-back. Pivot the lever forward until it stops, then let it return. Doing this several times adjusts the lumbar support through its full range.

To get into the back seat on the driver's side, pull up on the seat-back adjustment lever.

On the EX model with the optional power seat Pull up on the release lever on the side of the seat-back.

To get into the back seat on the passenger's side, pull up on the release lever on the side of the seat- back, and pull the seat-back forward. The seat-back and seat bottom will both move forward to allow easier entry to the back seat. After you return the seat-back to the upright position, push the whole seat backwards until it latches. Make sure the seat is fully latched before sitting in it.

Instruments and Controls

Seat Adjustments

Head Restraints The front head restraints help protect you and your passenger from whiplash and other injuries. They are most effective when you adjust them so the top of the restraint is even with the top of your ears.

Instruments and Controls

To remove a head restraint for cleaning or repair, pull it up as far as it will go. Push the release button and pull the restraint out of the seat- back.

Driving your car without head restraints can lead to serious injury to you and your passenger in a crash.

Make sure the head restraints are in place and adjusted properly before driving.

RELEASE BUTTON

The front head restraints adjust for height. You need both hands to adjust the restraint. Do not attempt to adjust it while driving. To raise it, pull upward. To lower the restraint, push the release button and push the restraint down.

MASTER KEY

Folding Rear Seat

Pull

Make sure both rear shoulder belts are positioned in front of the rear seat-back whenever the seat-back is in its upright position.

The back of the rear seat folds down, giving you direct access to the trunk. The seat-back can be released from inside the car or inside the trunk.

To fold down the seat-back from inside the car, insert the master key in the lock on the rear shelf. Turn the key clockwise, pull down the top of the seat-back, then release the key.

To release the seat-back from inside the trunk, pull the release under the rear shelf.

To lock the seat-back upright, push it firmly against the rear shelf. Make sure it is latched in place by pulling on the top of the seat.

Make sure all items in the trunk, or items extending through the opening into the back seat, are tied down. Loose items can fly forward and cause injury if you have to brake hard. See Loading Cargo on page 108.

Never drive with the seat-back folded down and the trunk lid open. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 28.

Instruments and Controls

Power Windows

On LX and EX models in the U.S., and EX-R model in Canada Your car's windows are electrically- powered. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) to raise or lower any window.

Each door has a switch that controls its window. To open the window, push the switch down and hold it. Release the switch when you want the window to stop. Close the window by pushing the switch up and holding it.

Instruments and Controls

MAIN SWITCH

DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH The driver's door has a master power window control panel. To open the passenger's window, push down on the switch and hold it down until the window reaches the desired position. To close the window, push up on the window switch. Release the switch when the window gets to the position you want.

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

AUTO — To open the driver's window fully, push the window switch firmly down and release it. The window automatically goes all the way down. To stop the window from going all the way down, push the window switch up briefly.

To open the driver's window only partially, push the window switch down lightly and hold it. The window will stop as soon as you release the switch.

The AUTO function only works to lower the driver's window. To raise the window, you must push the window switch up and hold it until the window reaches the desired position.

Power Windows, Moonroof

The MAIN switch controls power to the passenger's window. With this switch off, the passenger's window cannot be raised or lowered. The MAIN switch does not affect the driver's window. Keep the MAIN switch off when you have children in the car so they do not injure themselves by operating the windows unintentionally.

Moonroof

The power window system has a key- off delay function. The windows will still operate for up to ten minutes after you turn off the ignition. Opening either front door cancels the delay function. You must turn the ignition ON (II) again before you can raise or lower the windows.

Closing a power window on a child's hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

Make sure your children are away from the windows before closing them.

MOONROOF SWITCH

On EX model in the U.S., and EX-R model in Canada Use the switch on the dashboard to open and close the moonroof. The ignition must be ON (II). Push and hold the switch to open the moonroof. Release the switch when the moonroof reaches the desired position. To close the moonroof, press and hold the switch.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Moonroof, Mirrors

The moonroof has a key-off delay. You can still open and close the moonroof for up to ten minutes after you turn off the ignition. The key-off delay cancels as soon as you open either front door. You must then turn the ignition ON (II) for the moonroof to operate.

Closing the moonroof on someone's hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

Make sure passengers are clear of the moonroof before closing it.

Mirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH

TAB

Keep the inside and outside mirrors clean and adjusted for best visibility. Be sure to adjust the mirrors before you start driving.

On some models Adjust the outside mirrors with the adjustment switch on the driver's door armrest:

NOTICE

If you try to open the moonroof in below-freezing temperatures, or when it is covered with snow or ice, you can damage the moonroof panel or motor.

The inside mirror has day and night positions. The night position reduces glare from headlights behind you. Flip the tab on the bottom edge of the mirror to select the day or night position.

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

2. Move the selector switch to L

(driver's side) or R (passenger's side).

Instruments and Controls

Mirrors, Parking Brake

Parking Brake

NOTICE

Driving the car with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles.

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH 3. Push the appropriate edge of the

adjustment switch to move the mirror right, left, up or down.

4. When you finish, move the

selector switch to the center (off) position. This turns off the adjustment switch so you can't move a mirror out of position by accidentally bumping the switch.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up slightly, push the button, and lower the lever. The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released (see page 34). If you try to drive the car without releasing the parking brake, the ABS cannot work properly.

Instruments and Controls

Digital Clock

RESET

The digital clock displays the time with the ignition switch ON (II). To see the time with the ignition off, press and hold the wide button under the clock.

To set the clock:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) to

display the time.

2. Swing down the front cover of the

wide button under the clock display. You will see H, M, and RESET buttons.

Instruments and Controls

3. Press and hold the H button until the hour advances to the desired time.

4. Press and hold the M button until

the numbers advance to the desired time.

You can use the RESET button to quickly set the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed time is before the half hour, pressing the RESET button sets the clock back to the previous hour. If the displayed time is after the half hour, pressing the RESET button sets the clock for- ward to the beginning of the next hour.

For example:

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

Beverage Holder

Push

Beverage Holder

Be careful when you are using the beverage holder. A spilled liquid that is very hot can scald you or your passenger. Spilled liquids can also damage the upholstery, carpeting, and electrical components in the interior.

On some models To open the beverage holder, push on the top. It is spring-loaded and will swing open. To close it, push it down until it latches.

Use the beverage holder only when the car is parked. If you place cups in the holder while driving, the liquid may spill when you go over bumps or around corners.

The inner liner can be removed if you want to hold a larger cup.

Instruments and Controls

Vanity Mirror, Cigarette Lighter, Ashtrays

Vanity Mirror

Cigarette Lighter

Ashtrays

CIGARETTE LIGHTER

Some models have lighted vanity mirrors.

The light beside the mirror comes on only when the light switch is turned on.

The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for the cigarette lighter to work. To heat up the lighter, push it in. It will pop out when it is ready for use. Do not hold the lighter in while it is heating up, you could cause it to overheat.

ASHTRAY

Open the front ashtray by swinging the lid down. To remove it for emptying, open the lid then pull the ashtray straight outward.

Instruments and Controls

Ashtrays, Interior Lights

NOTICE

Ceiling Light

Use the ashtray only for cigarettes, cigars and other smoking materials. To prevent a possible fire and damage to your car, don't put paper or other things that can burn in the ashtray.

OFF

ON

DOOR ACTIVATED The ceiling light has a three-position switch. In the OFF position, the light does not come on. In the center position, the ceiling light comes on when you open either door. In the ON position, the ceiling light stays on continuously.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

ASHTRAY

The rear ashtray is at the rear end of the center console. Open the ashtray by swinging the upper edge of the lid down. To remove the ashtray for emptying, open it then lift up and out.

Interior Lights

Courtesy Lights

IGNITION SWITCH LIGHT

On LX and EX models in the U.S., and EX-R model in Canada Turn on the spotlight by pushing the button next to each light. Push the button again to turn it off. You can use the spotlights at all times.

DOOR LIGHT On some models The ignition switch light comes on when you open the driver's door and stays on several seconds after you close the door. The door light comes on when you open the door and goes off when you close the door.

Instruments and Controls

The heating and air conditioning* systems in your Honda provide a comfortable driving environment in all weather conditions.

* Air conditioning is optional on Canadian LX model.

The audio system that is standard equipment on some models has many features. This section de- scribes those features and how to use them. (If you selected an optional audio system, refer to the operating instructions that came with it.)

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling........................ 70
What Each Control Does............ 70
How to Use the System............... 72
Ventilation................................ 73
To Cool with A/C.................... 74
To Heat..................................... 75
To Heat and Dehumidify

with Air Conditioning.......... 75
To Defog and Defrost............. 75
To Turn Everything Off............. 76
Audio System (Canadian LX).......... 77

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo

Audio System........................... 77
Operating the Radio.................... 78
Adjusting the Sound.................... 80
Operating the Cassette Player... 81
Tape Search Functions............... 82

Audio System (Except

Canadian LX)........................... 83

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo

Audio System........................... 83
Operating the Radio.................... 84
Adjusting the Sound.................... 87
Radio Frequencies....................... 88
Radio Reception........................... 88
Operating the Cassette Player... 90

Caring for the Cassette Player... 92
Operating the Optional CD........ 93
Protecting Conpact Discs........... 95
CD Error Indications................... 96
Theft Protection........................... 97

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

Proper use of the Heating and Cooling system can make the interior dry and comfortable, and keep the windows clear for best visibility.

If your vehicle does not have air conditioning, it can be installed at any time. Your dealer will install a Genuine Honda air conditioning system that meets Honda's high quality standards and is designed to exactly fit your vehicle. Please contact your dealer for more information.

What Each Control Does

Fan Control Dial Turning this dial clockwise increases the fan's speed, which increases air flow.

Temperature Control Dial Turning this dial clockwise increases the temperature of the air flow.

Comfort and Convenience Features

FRESH AIR/RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTONS

Air Conditioning (A/C) Button This button turns the air condi- tioning ON and OFF. The indicator above the button lights when the A/C is on.

side, air is

Fresh Air/Recirculation Button This button controls the source of the air going into the system. When you select the brought in from outside the vehicle (Fresh Air mode). When you select the interior is sent through the system again (Recirculation mode). The indicator light shows which mode is selected.

side, air from the vehicle's

Mode Buttons These buttons let you select which vents the air flows from.

Air flows from the center

and corner vents in the dashboard.

Air flow is divided between the vents in the dashboard and the floor vents.

Air flows from the floor

vents.

Air flow is divided between

the floor vents and the defroster vents at the base of the windshield.

Air flows from the defroster vents at the base of the windshield.

Heating and Cooling

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

Vent Controls

CENTER VENT

SIDE VENT

You can adjust the direction of the air coming from the dashboard vents by moving the tab in the center of each vent up-and-down and side-to- side.

The vents in the corners of the dashboard can be opened and closed with the dials next to them.

Comfort and Convenience Features

How to Use the System This section covers how to set up the system controls for ventilation, heating, cooling, dehumidifying, and defrosting.

The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to generate hot and cold air. The heater uses engine coolant to warm the air. If the engine is cold, it will be several minutes before you feel warm air coming from the system. The air conditioning does not rely on engine temperature.

It is best to leave the system in mode under almost all

conditions. Keeping the system in mode, particularly with the A/C off, can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to you are driving through smoky or dusty conditions, then switch back to

mode when

mode when the condition

clears.

The outside air intakes for the heating and cooling system are at the base of the windshield. Keep these clear of leaves and other debris.

Heating and Cooling

FRESH AIR/RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTONS

Ventilation The flow-through ventilation system draws in outside air, circulates it through the interior, then exhausts it through vents near the rear window.

1. Turn the temperature control dial

all the way to the left. Make sure the A/C is off.

2. Select 3. Set the fan to the desired speed.

and

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

To Cool with A/C 1. Turn on the A/C by pressing the

button. The light above the button should come on.

2. Make sure the temperature

control dial is all the way to the left.

3. Select 4. Set the fan to the desired speed.

and

If the interior is very warm from being parked in the sun, you can cool it down more rapidly by setting up the controls this way:

1. Start the engine. 2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the button. Make sure the tempera- ture control dial is all the way to the left

3. Set the fan to maximum speed. 4. Open the windows partially. Select

and

Comfort and Convenience Features

FRESH AIR/RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTONS

When the interior has cooled down to a more comfortable temperature, close the windows and set the controls as described for normal cooling.

Air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge (see page 38) when driving in stop-and-go traffic or climbing a long, steep hill. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the A/C until the gauge reads normally.

To Heat To warm the interior.

1. Start the engine. 2. Select 3. Set the fan to the desired speed. 4. Adjust the warmth of the air with

and

the temperature control dial

To Heat and Dehumidify with Air Conditioning Air conditioning, as it cools, removes moisture from the air. When used in combination with the heater, it makes the interior warm and dry.

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select 4. Adjust the temperature control

and

dial so the mixture of heated and cooled air feels comfortable.

Heating and Cooling

To Defog and Defrost To remove fog from the inside of the windows:

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select 4. Adjust the temperature control

and

dial so the air flow from the defroster vents feels warm.

5. Turn on the rear window defogger

to help clear the rear window.

This setting is suitable for all driving conditions whenever the outside temperature is above 32°F (0°C).

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

These settings direct all the air flow to the defroster vents at the base of the windshield and the side window defroster vents. The air flow will get warmer and clear the windows faster as the engine warms up. You can close the side vents with the dial beside each vent. This will send more warm air to the windshield defroster vents.

For safety, make sure you have a clear view through all the windows before driving away.

To Turn Everything Off To shut off the system temporarily, turn the fan speed and temperature control dial all the way to the left.

You should shut the system com- pletely off only for the first few minutes of driving in cold weather, until the engine coolant warms up enough to operate the heater. Keep the fan on at all other times so stale air does not build up in the interior.

Heating and Cooling

To remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield and side windows after the car has been sitting out in cold weather:

1. Start the engine. 2. Select 3. Switch the tan and temperature

and

controls to maximum.

To rapidly remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield (on very cold days), first select windshield is clear, select avoid fogging the windows.

Once the to

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

SW-VOL/BAL KNOB

TUNE/SEEK BAR

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio System For Canadian LX model only Your Honda's audio system provides clear reception on both AM and FM bands, while the preset buttons allow you to easily select your favorite stations.

The cassette player features auto- reverse for continuous play.

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

Comfort and Convenience Features

SW-VOL/BAL KNOB

TUNE/SEEK BAR

STEREO INDICATOR

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

Audio System

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on by pushing the SW-VOL/ BALknob.

Adjust the volume by turning the SW-VOL/BAL knob.

The band and frequency that the radio was last tuned to is displayed. To change bands, press the AM/FM button. On the FM band, ST will be displayed if the station is broadcast- ing fa stereo. Stereo reproduction on AM is not available.

Comfort and Convenience Features

You can use any of three methods to find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset buttons.

) to tune to a

) to tune to a higher frequency,

TUNE — Use the TUNE/SEEK bar to tune the radio to a desired frequency. Press the upper part or the lower part ( lower frequency. The frequency numbers will start to change rapidly. Release the bar when the display reaches the desired frequency. To change the frequency in small increments, press and release the TUNE/SEEK bar quickly.

SEEK — The SEEK function searches the band for a station with a strong signal. To activate it, press the TUNE/SEEK bar until you hear a beep, then release it. Depending on which part of the bar you pressed, the system scans upward or down- ward from the current frequency. It stops when it finds a station with a strong signal.

Preset — You can store the frequencies of your favorite radio stations in the six preset buttons. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two on the FM band.

Audio System

To store a frequency:

1. Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each Preset button.

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK bar to

tune the radio to the desired station.

3. Pick the Preset button you want for that station. Press the button and hold it until you hear a beep.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total

of six stations on AM and twelve on FM.

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

The preset frequencies will be lost if your vehicle's battery goes dead or is disconnected.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Adjusting the Sound Balance/Fader — These two controls adjust the strength of the sound coming from each speaker. The Balance control adjusts the side- to-side strength, while the Fader control adjusts the front-to-back strength.

Adjust the Fader to your liking by turning the outside ring. Adjust the Balance by pulling out the SW-VOL/ BAL knob and turning it

Treble/Bass — Use these controls to adjust the tone to your liking. Adjust the Bass by turning the knob. Adjust the Treble by pulling out the knob and turning it.

Comfort and Convenience Features

BALANCE CONTROL

FADER CONTROL

TREBLE/BASS CONTROL

Radio Frequencies and Reception For information, See page 88.

Operating the Cassette Player Turn the audio system ON. Make sure the tape opening on the cassette is facing to the right, then insert the cassette most of the way into the slot. The system will pull it in the rest of the way, and begin to play.

The tape direction indicator will light to show you which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates the side you inserted facing upward is now playing. If you want to play the other side, press the Fast Forward/Rewind buttons at the same time.

Audio System

EJECT BUTTON

FAST FORWARD BUTTON

REWIND BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

CASSETTE SLOT

When the system reaches the end of the tape, it will automatically reverse direction and play the other side. If you want to remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button.

Comfort and Convenience Features

FAST FORWARD BUTTON

REWIND BUTTON

Audio System

Tape Search Functions FF/REW — Fast Forward and Rewind move the tape rapidly. Press the REW button to rewind the the tape, or the FF button to fast forward. To take the system out of rewind, press the FF button briefly. To take the system out of fast forward, press REW briefly. If the system reaches the end of the tape while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.

Caring for Cassettes Damaged cassettes can jam inside the drive or cause other problems. See page 92 for information on cassette care and protection.

Comfort and Convenience Features

(U.S.: LX)

(U.S.: EX, Canada: EX-R)

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio System For LX and EX models in the U.S. and EX-R model in Canada Your Honda's audio system provides clear reception on both AM and FM bands, while the preset buttons allow you to easily select your favorite stations. The cassette system features Dolby B* nosie reduction, automatic sensing of chromium-dioxide (CrO tape, and autoreverse for continuous play. U.S. EX and Canadian EX-R The Anti-theft feature disables the system if it is disconnected from the car's battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number.

* Dolby noise reduction manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpo- ration. "DOLBY" and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories

Licensing Corporation.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features

TUNE — Use the TUNE/SEEK switch to tune the radio to a desired frequency. Push the switch up to tune to a higher frequency, and push the switch down to tune to a lower frequency. The frequency numbers will start to change rapidly. Release the switch when the display reaches the desired frequency. To change the frequency in small increments, push and release the TUNE/SEEK switch quickly.

SEEK — The SEEK function searches the band for a station with a strong signal. To activate it, push the TUNE/SEEK switch until you hear a beep, then release it. Depending on which way you pushed the switch, the system scans upward or downward from the current frequency. It stops when it finds a station with a strong signal.

Preset — You can store the frequencies of your favorite radio stations in the six preset buttons. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two on the FM band.

Audio System

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in AC- CESSORY (I) or ON (II). Turn the system on and adjust the volume by turning the ON/OFF/VOL knob.

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

You can use any of three methods to find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset buttons.

Comfort and Convenience Features

To store a frequency:

(U.S.: LX)

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

Audio System

1. Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each Preset button.

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK bar to

tune the radio to the desired station.

3. Pick the Preset button you want for that station. Press the button and hold it until you hear a beep.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total of six stations on AM and twelve on FM.

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

The preset frequencies will be lost if your vehicle's battery goes dead or is disconnected.

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

(U.S.: EX, Canada: EX-R)

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Radio Frequencies Your Honda's radio can receive the complete AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequen- cies:

AM band: 530 to 1,710 kilohertz FM band: 87.7 to 107.9 megahertz

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

Stations must use these exact frequencies. It is fairly common for stations to round-off the frequency in their advertising, so your radio could display a frequency of 100.9 even though the announcer may identify the station as "FM101."

Comfort and Convenience Features

Radio Reception How well your Honda's radio receives stations is dependent on many factors, such as the distance from the station's transmitter, nearby large objects, and atmos- pheric conditions.

A radio station's signal gets weaker as you get farther away from its transmitter. If you are listening to an AM station, you will notice the sound volume becoming weaker, and the station drifting in and out. If you are listening to an FM staion, you will see the stereo indicator flickering off and on as the signal weakens. Eventually, the stereo indicator will go off and the sound will fade completely as you get out of range of the station's signal

Driving very near the transmitter of a station that is broadcasting on a frequency close to the frequency of the station you are listening to can also affect your radio's reception. You may temporarily hear both stations, or hear only the station you are close to.

Radio signals, especially on the FM band, are deflected by large objects such as buildings and hills. Your radio then receives both the direct signal from the station's transmitter, and the deflected signal. This causes the sound to distort or flutter. This is a main cause of poor radio reception in city driving.

Radio reception can be affected by atmospheric conditions such as thunderstorms, high humidity, and even sunspots. You may be able to receive a distant radio station one day and not receive it the next day because of a change in conditions.

Audio System

Electrical interference from passing vehicles and stationary sources can cause temporary reception problems.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Operating the Cassette Player Turn the audio system ON. Make sure the tape opening on the cassette is facing to the right, then insert the cassette most of the way into the slot. The system will pull it in the rest of the way, and begin to play.

The tape direction indicator will light to show you which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates the side you inserted facing upward is now playing. If you want to play the other side, press the PROG button.

Dolby B noise reduction turns on when you insert a cassette. If the cassette was not recorded using Dolby noise reduction, turn it off by pressing the

button.

Comfort and Convenience Features

When the system reaches the end of the tape, it will automatically reverse direction and play the other side. If you want to remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button.

The system will automatically eject the cassette whenever you turn off the system or the ignition switch.

Tape Search Functions With a cassette playing, you can use the FF, REW, TMS, or REPEAT function to find a desired program.

FF/REW — Fast Forward and Rewind move the tape rapidly. Push the FF/REW/TMS switch down to rewind the tape. Push the switch up to fast forward. Press the PLAY button to take the system out of rewind or fast forward. If the system reaches the end of the tape while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function,

reverses direction, and begins to play.

TMS — The Tape Music Search Function allows you to find the beginning of a song or passage. You activate TMS with the FF/REW/ TMS switch. To find the beginning of the song or passage currently playing, push the switch down and hold it until you hear a beep. You will see REW flashing in the display as the tape rewinds. To find the beginning of the next song, push the switch up and hold it until you hear a beep. You will see FF flashing in the display as the tape fast forwards. When the system finds the begin- ning of a song or passage, it goes back to PLAY mode.

REPEAT — The Repeat function continuously replays the current song or passage. Press the REPEAT button to activate it; you will see RPT displayed as a reminder. When the system reaches the end of the song or passage currently playing, it will automatically go into rewind. When it senses the beginning of the same song or passage, the system returns to PLAY mode. It will continue to repeat this same program until you deactivate REPEAT by pressing the button again.

The TMS and REPEAT functions use silent periods on the tape to find the end of a song or passage. These features may not work to your satisfaction if there is almost no gap between selections, a high noise level between selections, or a silent period in the middle of a selection.

(U.S.: LX)

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

Audio System

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

EJECT BUTTON

PROG BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

(U.S.: EX, Canada: EX-R)

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

EJECT BUTTON

PROG BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Caring for the Cassette Player The cassette drive picks up dirt and oxides whenever you play a tape. This builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the cassette drive after every 30 hours of use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit available for this purpose. If you do not clean the cassette drive regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the deposits with a normal cleaning kit. The cassette player automatically ejects cassettes that do not play normally. If it ejects a cassette before it begins to play, it is probably defective and should not be inserted again. You may have a cassette suddenly stop playing, reverse directions once or twice and then eject. This is normally an indication the tape is wound unevenly. It should play normally after being manually rewound.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes. Cassettes longer than 100 minutes use thinner tape that may break or jam the drive.

Look at a cassette before you insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning one of the hubs with a pencil or your finger.

If the label is peeling off, do not put it in the player. It may cause the cassette to jam in the drive mecha- nism when you try to eject it.

Do not leave cassettes sitting where they are exposed to high heat or humidity, such as on top of the dashboard or in the player. If a cassette is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before putting it in the player.

CLEAN INDICATOR

(Except for Canadian LX model) After 30 hours of tape use, you will see CLEAN flashing for 5 seconds in the display when you insert a tape into the tape slot. If you are already regularly cleaning the tape drive at least every 30 hours, reset the indicator by pressing the Preset 6
button while the system is in the tape operation mode. Hold the button until you hear a beep and the CLEAN indicator goes out

Operating the Optional CD Changer A Compact Disc changer is available through your dealer. It holds up to six discs, providing several hours of continuous entertainment You operate the CD changer with the same controls used for the radio and cassette player.

Your dealer also has an accessory in- dash single CD player available that is operated by the radio controls. To operate this unit, use the instructions (except for those relating to multiple discs) in this section.

Using the instructions that came with the changer, load the desired CDs in the magazine, and load the magazine in the changer.

(U.S.: LX)

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

RPT INDICATOR

Audio System

(U.S.: EX, Canada: EX-R)

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

CD BUTTON

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

A. SELECT INDICATOR

REPEAT BUTTON RPT INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH To operate the CD changer, the ignition must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) and the audio system must be on. If you are listening to a cassette, eject it.

Press the CD button until "CD" appears in the display. The system

CD BUTTON

A. SELECT/ REPEAT BUTTON

will start to play the first track of the first disc in the magazine. When that disc ends, the next disc in the magazine is loaded and played. After the last disc finishes, the system returns to disc 1.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

To select a different disc than the one that is playing, press the appropriate preset button (1-6). The system will load that disc and begin playing it from the first track.

You can use the TUNE/SEEK switch to select tracks within a disc. If you press and release the TUNE/ SEEK switch, the system will move to the beginning of a track. Push the switch up to move to the beginning of the next track, and push the switch down to move to the begin- ning of the current track.

If you push and hold the TUNE/ SEEK switch, the system will continue to move across tracks. Release the switch when you think it has reached the desired place on the disc.

Comfort and Convenience Features

If the system is in Repeat mode, you must turn it off by pressing A. SELECT/REPEAT before you can select Random Play. Then press the button again until you see A. SELECT displayed.

To take the system out of CD mode, press the AM or FM button, or insert a cassette in the player. When you return to CD mode, play will contin- ue at the same disc and track.

If you turn the system off while a CD is playing, either with the ON-OFF/ VOL knob or the ignition switch, play will continue at the same disc and track when you turn it back on.

REPEAT — When you activate the Repeat feature by pressing the Repeat button, the system continu- ously replays the current track. You will see RPT in the display as a reminder. Press the Repeat button again to turn it off.

On U.S. EX and Canadian EX-R models RANDOM PLAY — This feature, when activated, plays the tracks on a CD in random order, rather than in the order they are recorded on the CD. To activate Random Play, press the A. SELECT/REPEAT button until you see A SELECT in the display. The system will then select and play tracks randomly on the current disc. When all tracks on that disc have been played, the next disc is loaded and played randomly. This continues until you deactivate Random Play by pressing A SELECT/REPEAT again.

Protecting Compact Discs Handle a CD by its edges; never touch either surface. Contamination from fingerprints, liquids, felttip pens, and labels can cause the CD to not play properly, or possibly jam in the drive.

When a CD is not being played, store it in its case to protect it from dust and other contamination. To prevent warpage, keep CDs out of direct sunlight and extreme heat.

Audio System

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

A new CD may be rough on the inner and outer edges. The small plastic pieces causing this roughness can flake off and fall on the re- cording surface of the disc, causing skipping or other problems. Remove these pieces by rubbing the inner and outer edges with the side of a pencil or pen.

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

CD Error Indications If you see an error indication in the display while in CD mode, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error indication, take the car to your Honda dealer.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Theft Protection On U.S. EX and Canadian EX-R models Your car's audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, the user must enter a specific five-digit code in the Preset buttons. Because there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received a card that lists your audio system's code number and serial number. It is best to store this card in a safe place at home. In addition, you should write the audio system's serial number in this Owner's Manual. If you should happen to lose the card, you must obtain the code number from your Honda dealer. To do this, you will need the system's serial number.

If your car's battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. If this happens, you will see "Code" in the frequency display the next time you turn on the system. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code. If it is entered correctly, the radio will start playing.

If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over or try to correct your mistake. Complete the five-digit sequence, then enter the correct code. You have three tries to enter the correct code. If you are unsuccessful in three attempts, you must then leave the system on for one hour before trying again.

Audio System

You will have to store your favorite stations in the Preset buttons after the system begins working. Your original settings were lost when power was disconnected.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Before you begin driving your Honda, you should know what gasoline to use, and how to check the levels of important fluids. You also need to know how to properly stow luggage or packages. This section will help you. If you plan to add any accesso- ries to your car, please read the information in this section first.

Before Driving

Break-in Period.............................. 100
Gasoline.......................................... 100
Oxygenated Fuels...................... 100
Driving in Foreign Countries... 101
Service Station Procedures.......... 102
Filling the Fuel Tank................. 102
Opening the Hood..................... 103
Fuel Economy................................ 106
Vehicle Condition...................... 106
Driving Habits............................ 106
Accessories..................................... 107
Loading Cargo................................ 108

Before Driving

Gasoline Your Honda operates most effec- tively on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 86 or higher. Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a persistent, heavy metallic rapping noise in the engine that can lead to mechanical damage.

We recommend gasolines containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits.

Using gasoline containing lead will damage your car's emission controls. This contributes to air pollution and can void certain parts of your warranty.

Oxygenated Fuels Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some areas of the United States and Canada use oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions.

If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirement.

Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel's contents. Some states/provinces require this information to be posted on the pump.

Break-in Period, Gasoline

Break-in Period Help assure your car's future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you drive during the first 1,000 km (600 miles). During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

If you need to add oil, use the engine oil recommended in this owner's manual.

Avoid hard braking. New brakes need to be broken-in by moderate use for the first 300 km (200
miles).

You should follow these same re- commendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are relined.

Before Driving

If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.

Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more than the percentages of oxygenates given above are not covered under warranty.

Driving in Foreign Countries If you are planning to take your Honda outside the U. S. or Canada, contact the tourist bureaus in the areas you will be traveling in to find out about the availability of unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating.

The following are the EPA-approved percentages of oxygenates:

ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name "Gasohol."

MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.

METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 5% methanol by volume as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline containing more than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or perform- ance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber and plastic parts of your fuel system.

Gasoline

If unleaded gasoline is not available, be aware that using leaded gasoline in your Honda will affect performance and fuel mileage, and damage its emissions controls. It will no longer comply with U. S. and Canadian emissions regulations, and will be illegal to operate in North America. To bring your car back into compliance will require the replacement of several components, such as the oxygen sensor and the catalytic converter. These replacements are not covered under warranty.

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Filling the Fuel Tank

1. The fuel fill is on the driver's side

of the car. Park with that side closest to the service station pumps.

2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling

on the handle to the left of the driver's seat.

Before Driving

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

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

3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.

You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Place the fuel fill cap on the inside of the door as shown.

4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel pump automatically clicks off. Do not try to "top off" the tank, leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.

5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on,

tighten it until it clicks more than twice.

6. Push the fuel fill door until it

latches.

FUEL FILL CAP

Opening the Hood

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle, located under the left lower corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.

LATCH

2. Standing in front of the car, put

your fingers under the front edge of the hood to the right of center. Slide your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle up until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.

Service Station Procedures

SUPPORT ROD

3. Pull the support rod out of its clip and insert the end into the hole on the front of the hood around the center.

To close the hood, lift it up slightly to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot above the fender, then let it drop.

CONTINUED

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Oil Check

DIPSTICK

Check the engine oil level every time you fill the car with fuel. Wait at least two minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1. Remove the dipstick (orange

handle).

Before Driving

2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean

cloth or paper towel

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

Service Station Procedures

Engine Coolant Check

RESERVE TANK

Refer to Periodic Checks on page 138 for information on checking other items in your Honda.

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

4. Remove it again and check the level It should be between the upper and lower marks.

If it is near or below the lower mark, see Adding Oil on page 141.

MAX

MIN

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding Engine Coolant on page 146 for information on adding the proper coolant.

Before Driving

Driving Habits You can improve fuel economy by driving moderately. Rapid acceler- ation, abrupt cornering, and hard braking use more fuel

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

Depending on traffic conditions, try to maintain a constant speed. Every time you slow down and speed up, your car uses extra fuel Use the cruise control, when appropriate, to increase fuel economy.

A cold engine uses more fuel than a warm engine. It is not necessary to "warm-up" a cold engine by letting it idle for a long time. You can drive away in about a minute, no matter how cold it is outside. The engine will warm up faster, and you get better fuel economy. To cut down on the number of "cold starts," try to combine several short trips into one.

The air conditioning puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel Turn off the A/C to cut down on air conditioning use. Use the flow-through ventilation when the outside air temperature is moderate.

Fuel Economy

The condition of your car and your driving habits are the two most important things that affect the fuel mileage you get

Vehicle Condition Always maintain your car according to the maintenance schedule. This will keep it in top operating condition.

An important part of that mainte- nance is the Periodic Checks (see page 138 ). For example, an under- inflated tire causes more "rolling resistance," which uses fuel It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly. In winter, the build-up of snow on your car's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

Before Driving

Your Honda dealer has many Genuine Honda Accessories that allow you to personalize your car. These have all been approved for installation and use on your car, and are covered by warranty.

Your car has several computer- controlled systems, including the SRS system, the engine's fuel injection, and the Anti-lock brake system. Strong electronic inter- ference can affect their operation.

Some non-Honda accessories you can buy in the "aftermarket" are designed for universal applications. Although they may fit your Honda, they may not be within factory specifications. For example, after- market wheels may not meet Honda's specifications for width and offset They could cause suspension problems which would not be covered by your warranty. Im- properly-designed accessories can adversely affect your car's handling and stability.

Electronic communications equip- ment, such as cellular telephones and two-way radios are regulated by the FCC (DOC in Canada) and should not interfere with your car's systems. Improper installation, or using electrical equipment not in- tended for mobile use may interfere with your car's operation. If you want to install a cellular telephone, other mobile communications equipment or even add-on stereo amplifiers, please discuss it first with your Honda dealer.

Accessories

In many cases, improper installation is the real cause of problems with aftermarket accessories. Have these accessories installed by qualified technicians who are familiar with your Honda. If possible, have your Honda dealer inspect the final installation.

Before Driving

Loading Cargo

The maximum load you can carry in your Honda is 395 kg (850 Ibs). It includes the total weight of all passengers and their belongings, any accessories, and the tongue weight of a trailer. This 395 kg (850 Ibs) figure is shown as the Vehicle Capacity Weight on the tire infor- mation label attached to the driver's doorjamb.

Before Driving

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Figure the total "occupant weight" you will be transporting. To do this, multiply the number of people (driver and all passengers) by 70
kg (150 Ibs). Subtract this number from the Vehicle Capacity Weight (395 k g/ 850 Ibs). If you are towing a trailer, subtract