grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.
Technical Information
Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf 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.
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.
Technical Information
The following are the U.S. EPA and Canadian CGSB approved percentages of oxygenates: ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 10 percent 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 percent MTBE by volume. METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel that contains methanol. Methanol can corrode metal parts in the fuel system, and also damage plastic and rubber components. This damage would not be covered by your warranties.
Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf 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.
If unleaded gasoline is not available, be aware that using leaded gasoline in your Honda will affect perfor- mance 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 replace- ment of several components, such as the oxygen sensors and the three way catalytic converter. These re- placements are not covered under warranty.
Driving in Foreign Countries
Technical Information
Main MenuTable of ContentsstEmissions Controls
The burning of gasoline in your car's engine produces several byproducts. Some of these are carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline evaporating from the tank also produces hydrocarbons. Controlling the production of NOx, CO, and HC is important to the environment. Under certain conditions of sunlight and climate, NOx and HC react to form photochemical "smog." Carbon monoxide does not contribute to smog creation, but it is a poisonous gas.
Technical Information
The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Act* sets standards for automobile emissions. It also requires that automobile manufacturers explain to owners how their emissions controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emissions controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 220.
* In Canada, Honda vehicles comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) for Emissions valid at the time they are manufactured.
Crankcase Emissions Control System Your car has a Positive Crankcase Ventilation System. This keeps gasses that build up in the engine's crankcase from going into the atmosphere. The Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve routes them from
the crankcase back to the intake manifold. They are then drawn into the engine and burned.
Evaporative Emissions Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emissions control canister filled with charcoal adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this canister while the engine is off. After the engine is started and warmed up, the vapor is drawn into the engine and burned during driving.
Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery The Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) system captures the fuel vapors during refueling. The vapors are adsorbed in a canister filled with activated carbon. While driving, the fuel vapors are drawn into the engine and burned off.
Main MenuTable of ContentsstExhaust Emissions Controls The exhaust emissions controls include four systems: PGM-FI, Ignition Timing Control, Exhaust Gas Recirculation and Three Way Catalytic Converter. These four systems work together to control the engine's combustion and minimize the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust emissions control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emissions control systems.
PGM-FI System The PGM-FI System uses sequential multiport fuel injection. It has three subsystems: Air Intake, Engine Control, and Fuel Control. The Engine Control Module (ECM)/ Powertrain Control Module (PCM- A /T only) uses various sensors to determine how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all
operating conditions.
Ignition Timing Control System This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing, reducing the amount of HC, CO and NOx produced.
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system takes some of the exhaust gas and routes it back into the intake manifold. Adding exhaust gas to the air/fuel mixture reduces the amount of NOx produced when the fuel is burned.
Three Way Catalytic Converter The three way catalytic converter is in the exhaust system. Through chemical reactions, it converts HC, CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO 2), dinitrogen (N2), and water vapor.
Emissions Controls
Replacement Parts The emissions control systems are designed and certified to work to- gether in reducing emissions to levels that comply with the Clean Air Act. To make sure the emissions remain low, you should use only new Genuine Honda replacement parts or their equivalent for repairs. Using lower quality parts may increase the emissions from your car.
The emissions control systems are covered by warranties separate from the rest of your car. Read your warranty manual for more informa- tion.
Technical Information
Main MenuTable of ContentsstKeep the engine tuned-up.
Have your car diagnosed and repaired if it is misfiring, back- firing, stalling, or otherwise not running properly.
Three Way Catalytic Converter
The three way catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gasses without affecting the metals. The catalytic converter is referred to as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Honda part or its equivalent.
The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take place. It can set on fire any com- bustible materials that come near it. Park your car away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flammables.
Technical Information
THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER
A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engine's per- formance. Follow these guidelines to protect your car's three way catalytic converter.
Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective.
Main MenuTable of ContentsstTesting of Readiness Codes If you take your vehicle for a state emissions test shortly after the battery has been disconnected or gone dead, it may not pass the test. This is because of certain "readiness codes" that must be set in the on- board diagnostics for the emissions systems. These codes are erased when the battery is disconnected, and set again only after several days of driving under a variety of conditions.
If the testing facility determines that the readiness codes are not set, you will be requested to return at a later date to complete the test. If you must get the vehicle re-tested within the next two or three days, you can condition the vehicle for re-testing by doing the following.
Make sure the gas tank is nearly, but not completely, full (around 3/4).
Make sure the vehicle has been
parked with the engine off for 8
hours or more.
Make sure the ambient temperature is between 20° and 95° F.
State Emissions Testing
Without touching the accelerator pedal, start the engine and let it idle for 20 seconds.
Keep the vehicle in Park
(automatic transmission) or
Neutral (manual transmission).
Increase the engine speed to 2,000
rpm and hold it there until the
temperature gauge rises to at least
1/4 of the scale (approximately 3
minutes).
CONTINUED
Technical Information
Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf the testing facility determines the readiness codes are still not set, see your Honda dealer.
State Emissions Testing
Select a nearby lightly traveled
major highway where you can
maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph
(80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20
minutes. Drive on the highway in
D4 (A/T) or 5th (M/T). Do not
use the cruise control. When
traffic allows, drive for 90 seconds
without moving the accelerator
pedal. (Vehicle speed may vary
slightly; this is okay.) If you cannot
do this for a continuous 90
seconds because of traffic
conditions, drive for at least 30
seconds, then repeat it two more
times (for a total of 90 seconds).
Then drive in city/suburban traffic for at least 10 minutes. When traffic conditions allow, let the vehicle coast for several seconds without using the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal.
Technical Information
Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty and Customer Relations
Customer Relations
Information................................. 340
U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 341
Canada Zone Office Map.............. 342
Warranty Coverages..................... 343
Reporting Safely Defects
(U.S. Vehicles)........................... 344
Authorized Manuals...................... 345
Warranty and Customer Relations
Main MenustCustomer Relations Information
Honda dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer all your questions. If you encounter a problem that your dealership does not solve to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealership's management. The Service Manager or General Manager can help. Almost all problems are solved in this way.
If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's management, contact your Honda Customer Relations Zone Office. Refer to the U.S. and Canadian Zone Office maps on the following pages.
When you call or write, please give us this information:
Vehicle Identification Number (see page 324) Name and address of the dealer who services your car Date of purchase Mileage on your car Your name, address, and tele- phone number A detailed description of the problem Name of the dealer who sold the car to you
Warranty and Customer Relations
Main MenuTable of ContentsstU.S. Zone Office Map
Western Zone
P.O. Box 2260
700 Van Ness Avenue
Torrance, California
90501-1490
(310) 781-4565
Northwestern Zone
P.O. Box 20186
12439 N.E. Airport Way
Portland, Oregon 97230
(503) 256-0943
(also includes Alaska and
Hawaii)
South Central Zone 4529 Royal Lane
Irving, Texas 75063
(972) 929-5481
Central Zone 101 South Stanfield Road
Troy, Ohio 45373
(937) 332-6250
Mid-Atlantic Zone
902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878
(301) 990-2020
Southeastern Zone
P.O. Box 1606
1500 Morrison Parkway
Alpharetta, Georgia 30009-1606
(770) 442-2045
North Central Zone
601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004
(847) 870-5600
New England Zone 555 Old County Road
Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096
(860) 623-3310
See Zone 5 for: NYC Metro area and
Fairfield County, CT area
West Central Zone 1600 South Abilene Street, Suite D
Northeastern Zone 115 Gaither Drive
Aurora, Colorado 80012
(303) 696-3935
Mt. Laurel, New Jersey 08054
(856) 235-5533
Includes: NYC Metro area and
Fairfield County, CT area
Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I. Bella International
P.O. Box 190816
San Juan, PR 00919-0816
(787) 250-4318
Warranty and Customer Relations
The addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot reach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information.
Main MenuTable of ContentsstCanada Zone Office Map
CUSTOMER RELATIONS RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTELE
Honda Canada Inc.
715 Milner Avenue
Toronto, ON
M1B 2K8
Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9
Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909
Toronto (416) 287-4776
Warranty and Customer Relations
Honda Canada Inc. National Office
Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty Coverages
U.S. Owners Your new Honda is covered by these warranties:
New Vehicle Limited Warranty — covers your new vehicle, except for the battery, emissions control systems and accessories, against defects in materials and workmanship.
Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered for the useful life of the vehicle.
Replacement Battery Limited Warranty — provides prorated coverage for a replacement battery purchased from a Honda dealer.
Rust Perforation Limited Warranty — all exterior body panels are covered for rust-through from the inside for the specified time period with no mileage limit.
Replacement Muffler Lifetime Limited Warranty — provides coverage for as long as the pur- chaser of the muffler owns the vehicle.
Emissions Control Systems Defects Warranty and Emissions Performance Warranty — these two warranties cover your vehicle's emis- sions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are conditional. Please read the warranty manual for exact information.
Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty — this warranty gives up to 100 percent credit toward a replacement battery.
Accessory Limited Warranty — Genuine Honda Accessories are covered under this warranty. Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors. Please read your warranty manual for details.
Replacement Parts Limited Warranty — covers all genuine Honda replacement parts against defects in materials and workman- ship.
Restrictions and exclusions apply to all these warranties. Please read the 2001 Honda Warranty Information booklet that came with your car for precise information on warranty coverages. Your Honda's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty information is in a separate booklet.
Canadian Owners Please refer to the 2001 Warranty Manual that came with your car.
Warranty and Customer Relations
Main MenuTable of ContentsstReporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
If NHTSA receives similar com- plaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
Warranty and Customer Relations
Main MenuTable of ContentsstPurchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only) The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be obtained from Helm Incorporated, either by filling out the attached form or, for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone number on the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below, contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit, Michigan 48207, or call 1-800-782-4356.
Authorized Manuals
Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should contact their authorized Honda dealer.
By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.
61S8008
61S8009
61S8008EL
61S8030
31S82630
HON-R
Main MenuTable of ContentsstAuthorized Manuals
Service Manual: This manual covers maintenance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components. It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simple enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under- stand.
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual: This manual complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your vehicle.
Body Repair Manual: This manual describes the procedures involved in the replacement of damaged body parts.
These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14
days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.
P.O. BOX 07280 DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207 1-800-782-4356
Main MenuTable of ContentsstIndex
Accessories and Modifications.... 182
Accessories................................. 182
Additional Safety Precautions.. 183
Modifications............................. 183
ACCESSORY (Ignition Key
Position)........................................ 81
Accessory Power Socket.............. 113
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 232
Airbag (SRS)................................ 9, 45
Air Cleaner Element...................... 249
Air Conditioning Filter.................. 262
Air Conditioning System...... 118, 125
Maintenance............................... 261
Usage................................. 121, 127
Air Outlets (Vents)............... 120, 125
Air Pressure, Tires........................ 264
Alcohol in Gasoline........................ 332
Aluminum Wheels, Cleaning........ 287
Antifreeze....................................... 235
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
Indicator................................ 59, 201
Operation.................................... 200
Anti-theft, Audio System............... 171
Anti-theft Steering Column Lock .. 80
Appearance Care........................... 285
Audio System........................ 133, 148
Automatic Lighting Off Feature.... 68
Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners.... 43
Automatic Speed Control................ 74
Automatic Transmission............... 192
Capacity, Fluid................... 326, 328
Checking Fluid Level................ 243
Shifting........................................ 193
Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 193
Shift Lever Positions................. 193
Shift Lock Release..................... 196
Battery
Charging System
Indicator............................ 58, 310
Jump Starting............................. 303
Maintenance............................... 256
Specifications..................... 327, 329
Before Driving............................... 173
Belts, Seat..................................... 8, 41
Beverage Holder............................ 110
Body Repair.................................... 292
Brakes
Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 200
Break-in, New Linings .............. 174
Bulb Replacement............. 276, 277
Fluid............................................ 246
Parking........................................108
System Indicator.................. 59, 313
Wear Indicators......................... 199
Braking System.............................. 199
Break-in, New Car......................... 174
Brightness Control, Instruments... 69
Brights, Headlights......................... 67
Bulb Replacement
Back-up Lights........................... 277
Brake Lights ...................... 276, 277
Ceiling Light............................... 281
Courtesy Lights......................... 281
Front Parking Lights................. 275
Front Side Marker Lights......... 274
Headlights.................................. 272
High-mount Brake Light.......... 279
License Plate Lights.................. 280
Rear Side Marker Lights.......... 278
Specifications..................... 327, 329
CONTINUED
Main MenustIndex
Bulb Replacement
Spotlights.................................... 281
Trunk Light................................ 282
Turn Signal Lights..................... 274
Bulbs, Halogen............................... 272
Capacities Chart.................... 326, 328
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 52
Carrying Cargo.............................. 184
Cassette Player
Care.............................................160
Operation........................... 145, 156
CAUTION, Explanation of............... ii
CD Changer.......................... 142, 161
CD Player........................................ 140
Ceiling Light................................... 114
Center Pocket................................ 113
Certification Label......................... 324
Chains............................................. 269
Changing Oil
How to.........................................232
When to....................................... 220
Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 295
Changing Engine Coolant............. 237
Charging System Indicator.... 58, 310
Checklist, Before Driving............. 188
Child Safety...................................... 20
Child Seats........................................ 25
Tether Anchorage Points........... 40
Cleaner Element, Air..................... 249
Cleaning
Aluminum Wheels..................... 287
Carpeting.................................... 288
Exterior.......................................286
Fabric.......................................... 289
Interior........................................ 288
Leather........................................289
Seat Belts.................................... 289
Vinyl............................................ 289
Windows..................................... 290
Climate Control System................ 125
Clock, Setting the .......................... 109
Clutch Fluid.................................... 247
CO in the Exhaust......................... 334
Coin Box......................................... 113
Cold Weather, Starting in............. 190
Compact Spare............................... 294
Console Compartment.................. 111
Consumer Information*................ 340
Controls, Instruments and.............. 55
Coolant
Adding.........................................235
Checking..................................... 180
Proper Solution.......................... 235
Replacing.................................... 237
Temperature Gauge.................... 64
Corrosion Protection..................... 291
Courtesy Lights............................. 115
Crankcase Emissions Control
System......................................... 334
Cruise Control Operation............... 74
Customer Relations Office........... 341
DANGER, Explanation of................. ii
Dashboard.................................... 2, 56
Daytime Running Lights................. 68
Defects, Reporting Safety............. 344
Defogger, Rear Window................. 72
Defrosting the Windows...... 123, 131
Dimensions............................. 326, 328
Dimming the Headlights................ 67
Dipstick
Automatic Transmission........... 243
Engine Oil................................... 178
Main MenustDirectional Signals........................... 69
Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 199
Disposal of Used Oil...................... 234
Doors
Locking and Unlocking............... 81
Monitor Light............................... 61
Power Door Locks....................... 81
DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 330
Downshifting, 5-speed Manual
Transmission.............................. 191
Drive Belts...................................... 262
Driver and Passenger Safety............ 5
Driving............................................ 187
Economy..................................... 181
In Bad Weather.......................... 205
In Foreign Countries................. 333
Economy, Fuel............................... 181
Emergencies on the Road............. 293
Battery, Jump Starting.............. 303
Brake System Indicator............ 313
Changing a Flat Tire................. 295
Charging System Indicator...... 310
Checking the Fuses................... 315
Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 309
Malfunction Indicator
Lamp....................................... 311
Manually Closing Moonroof.... 314
Overheated Engine................... 306
Emergency Brake.......................... 108
Emergency Flashers....................... 71
Emergency Towing....................... 320
Emergency Trunk Opener............. 87
Emissions Controls........................ 334
Emissions Testing, State .............. 337
Engine
Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 64
Drive Belts.................................. 262
Malfunction Indicator
Lamp................................. 59, 311
Oil Pressure Indicator......... 58, 309
Oil, What Kind to Use............... 230
Overheating................................ 306
Specifications..................... 327, 329
Speed Limiter.................... 192, 196
Starting........................................189
Ethanol in Gasoline ....................... 332
Evaporative Emissions Controls.. 334
Exhaust Fumes................................ 52
Index
Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat
Belts by......................................... 18
Exterior, Cleaning the................... 286
Fabric, Cleaning............................. 289
Fan, Interior........................... 118, 129
Features, Comfort and
Convenience............................... 117
Filling the Fuel Tank..................... 175
Filters
Air Cleaner................................. 249
Air Conditioning........................ 262
Oil................................................ 232
5-speed Manual Transmission
Checking Fluid Level................ 245
Shifting the................................. 191
Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 71
Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 295
Floor Mats...................................... 288
Fluids
Automatic Transmission........... 243
Brake......................................... 246
CONTINUED
Main MenustIndex
Fluids
Clutch..........................................247
Manual Transmission............... 245
Power Steering........................... 248
Windshield Washers................. 242
FM Stereo Radio
Reception........................... 134, 149
Folding Rear Seat.......................... 100
Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 333
Four-way Flashers........................... 71
Front Airbags............................... 9, 45
Fuel..................................................174
Fill Door and Cap....................... 175
Gauge............................................ 64
Octane Requirement................. 174
Oxygenated................................ 332
Reserve Indicator......................... 62
Tank, Filling the......................... 175
Fuses, Checking the...................... 315
Gauge............................................ 64
Octane Requirement................. 174
Tank, Filling the......................... 175
Gas Station Procedures................. 175
Gauges
Engine Coolant Temperature .... 64
Fuel................................................64
Speedometer................................ 63
Tachometer.................................. 63
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight
Rating) ....................................... 208
Gearshift Lever Positions
Automatic Transmission........... 193
5-speed Manual
Transmission.......................... 191
Glass Cleaning............................... 290
Glove Box......................................... 88
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating) ....................................... 208
Automatic Lighting Off
Feature...................................... 68
Daytime Running Lights............. 68
High Beam Indicator................... 62
Lights On Indicator..................... 62
Reminder Chime.......................... 67
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 272
Turning on.................................... 67
Head Restraints............................... 99
Heating and Cooling...................... 118
High Altitude, Starting at.............. 190
High-Low Beam Switch .................. 67
HomeLink Universal
Transmitter.................................. 89
Hood Latch..................................... 251
Hood, Opening the........................ 176
Horn................................................... 66
Hydraulic Clutch............................ 247
Hydroplaning.................................. 206
Gas Mileage, Improving................ 181
Gasohol........................................... 332
Gasoline.......................................... 174
Fuel Reserve Indicator................ 62
Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 272
Hazard Warning Flashers............... 71
Headlights......................................... 67
Aiming......................................... 272
Identification Number, Vehicle.... 324
Ignition
Keys............................................... 77
Switch............................................ 80
Main MenustTiming Control System............. 335
Immobilizer System......................... 78
Important Safety Precautions .......... 6
Indicators, Instrument Panel.......... 57
Infant Restraint................................ 20
Infant Seats....................................... 29
Tether Anchorage Points........... 40
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 264
Inside Mirror.................................. 106
Inspection, Tire.............................. 265
Instrument Panel......................... 2, 56
Instrument Panel Brightness......... 69
Interior Cleaning............................ 288
Interior Lights................................ 114
Introduction......................................... i
Jacking up the Car......................... 297
Jack, Tire........................................ 296
Jump Starting................................. 303
Keys...................................................77
Label, Certification........................ 324
Lane Change, Signaling.................. 69
Lap/Shoulder Belts................... 15, 41
Lights
Bulb Replacement..................... 272
Indicator........................................ 57
Parking.......................................... 67
Turn Signal................................... 69
Load Limit...................................... 185
LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 80
Lockout Prevention......................... 82
Locks
Anti-theft Steering Column........ 80
Fuel Fill Door............................. 175
Glove Box..................................... 88
Power Door.................................. 81
Trunk............................................ 86
Low Coolant Level......................... 180
Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 191
Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 58, 309
Lubricant Specifications
Chart................................... 326, 328
Luggage.......................................... 184
Index
Maintenance................................... 215
Owner Maintenance Checks.... 227
Record.................................. 225-226
Required Indicator....................... 65
Safety...........................................216
Schedule.............................. 220-224
Malfunction Indicator
Lamp..................................... 59, 311
Manual Transmission.................... 191
Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 245
Meters, Gauges................................ 63
Methanol in Gasoline.................... 332
Mirrors, Adjusting......................... 106
Moonroof........................................ 105
Closing Manually....................... 314
Operation.................................... 105
Neutral Gear Position.................... 195
New Vehicle Break-in ................... 174
Normal Shift Speeds...................... 192
CONTINUED
Main MenustIndex
NOTICE, Explanation of.................... i
Numbers, Identification................ 324
Octane Requirement, Gasoline.... 174
Odometer.......................................... 63
Odometer, Trip................................ 64
Oil
Change, How to......................... 232
Change, When to....................... 220
Checking Engine....................... 178
Pressure Indicator............... 58, 309
Selecting Proper Viscosity
Chart....................................... 231
ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 81
Onboard Refueling Vapor
Recovery..................................... 334
Operation in Foreign Countries... 333
Outside Mirrors............................. 106
Overheating, Engine..................... 306
Owner Maintenance Checks........ 227
Oxygenated Fuels.......................... 332
Paint Touch-up............................... 287
Panel Brightness Control............... 69
Park Gear Position......................... 194
Parking............................................ 198
Parking Brake................................ 108
Parking Brake and Brake
System Indicator.................. 59, 313
Parking Lights.................................. 67
Parking Over Things that Burn... 198
PGM-FI System.............................. 335
Polishing and Waxing................... 287
Pre-Drive Safety Checklist............. 11
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 18
Proper Seat Belt Usage................... 15
Protecting Adults............................. 12
Additional Safety Precautions.... 19
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 18
Protecting Children......................... 20
Protecting Infants........................ 29
Protecting Larger Children........ 36
Protecting Small Children.......... 33
Using Child Seats with
Tethers...................................... 40
Radiator Overheating.................... 306
Radio/Cassette/CD Changer
Sound System............................. 148
Radio/CD Sound System.............. 133
Readiness Codes.................... 312, 337
Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 276
Rear Seat Access............................. 98
Rear Seat, Folding......................... 100
Rear View Mirror........................... 106
Rear Window Defogger.................. 72
Reclining the Seat Backs.......... 94, 97
Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 192
Reminder Lights.............................. 57
Remote Audio Controls................. 170
Remote Transmitter........................ 83
Replacement Information
Air Cleaner Element.................. 249
Air Conditioning Filter.............. 262
Engine Coolant........................... 237
Engine Oil and Filter................. 232
Fuses........................................... 316
Light Bulbs................................. 272
Schedule.............................. 218-224
Spark Plugs ........................ 251, 253
Main MenustIndex
Timing Belt................................. 263
Tires............................................ 267
Wiper Blades.............................. 259
Replacing Seat Belts After a
Crash............................................. 44
Reserve Tank, Engine Coolant.... 180
Restraint, Child................................ 20
Reverse Gear Position................... 194
Rotation, Tire................................. 267
Safety Belts................................... 8, 41
Safety Defects, Reporting* .......... 344
Safety Features.................................. 7
Airbags............................................ 9
Door Locks................................... 10
Head Restraints........................... 10
Seat Belts........................................ 8
Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10
Safety Labels, Location of.............. 53
Safety Messages................................ ii
Seat Belts...................................... 8, 41
Additional Information................ 41
Automatic Seat Belt
Tensioners................................ 43
Cleaning...................................... 289
Lap/Shoulder Belt................. 15, 41
Maintenance................................. 44
Reminder Light and
Beeper................................. 41, 58
System Components.................... 41
Use During Pregnancy................ 18
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt.... 15
Seats, Adjusting the......................... 94
Seat Heaters................................... 102
Security System............................. 172
Serial Number................................ 324
Service Intervals............................ 220
Service Manual* ............................ 345
Service Station Procedures.......... 175
Setting the Clock........................... 109
Shift Lever Position Indicator...... 193
Shift Lock Release......................... 196
Side Airbags..................................... 47
Side Airbag Indicator................ 49, 60
Side Marker Lights, Bulb
Replacement............................... 278
Signaling Turns................................ 69
Snow Tires...................................... 269
Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 286
Sound System........................ 133, 148
Spare Tire
Inflating....................................... 294
Specifications..................... 327, 329
Spark Plugs, Replacing......... 251, 253
Specifications Charts............ 326, 328
Speed Control................................... 74
Speedometer.................................... 63
Spotlights........................................ 114
SRS, Additional Information........... 45
Additional Safety Precautions.... 50
Automatic Seat Belt
Tensioners................................ 43
How the SRS Indicator
Works........................................ 48
How Your Airbags Work............ 45
SRS Components......................... 45
SRS Service................................... 50
SRS Indicator.............................. 48, 60
START (Ignition Key Position)..... 81
Starting the Engine........................ 189
In Cold Weather at High
Altitude................................... 190
With a Dead Battery................. 303
State Emissions Testing............... 337
CONTINUED
Main MenustIndex
Steam Coming from Engine......... 306
Steering Wheel
Adjustment................................... 73
Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 80
Stereo Sound System........... 133, 148
Storing Your Car............................ 283
Sun Visor......................................... 112
Sunglasses Holder......................... 109
Supplemental Restraint
System................................... 9, 45
Servicing....................................... 50
SRS Indicator.......................... 48, 60
System Components.................... 45
Synthetic Oil................................... 232
Tachometer...................................... 63
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 276
Taking Care of the Unexpected .. 293
Tape Player........................... 145, 156
Technical Descriptions
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 330
Emissions Control Systems...... 334
Oxygenated Fuels...................... 332
Three Way Catalytic
Converter................................ 336
Temperature Gauge........................ 64
Tether Anchorage Points............... 40
Theft Protection............................. 171
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 336
Time, Setting the........................... 109
Timing Belt..................................... 263
Tire Chains..................................... 269
Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 295
Tires................................................ 264
Air Pressure............................... 264
Checking Wear.......................... 265
Compact Spare........................... 294
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 330
Inflation....................................... 264
Inspection................................... 265
Maintenance............................... 266
Replacing.................................... 267
Rotating....................................... 267
Snow............................................ 269
Specifications..................... 327, 329
Tire Chains................................. 269
Winter Driving........................... 268
Tools, Tire Changing.................... 295
Towing
ATrailer......................................207
Emergency Wrecker................. 320
Traction Control System (TCS)
Indicator................................ 60, 204
Operation.................................... 202
Transmission
Checking Fluid Level,
Automatic............................... 243
Manual.................................... 245
Fluid Selection................... 244, 245
Identification Number............... 325
Shifting the Automatic.............. 193
Shifting the Manual................... 191
Treadwear...................................... 330
Trip Meter........................................ 64
Trunk................................................. 86
Emergency Trunk Release......... 87
Opening the.................................. 86
Open Monitor Light.................... 61
Turn Signals..................................... 69
Main MenustIndex
*: U.S. and Canada only
Underside, Cleaning...................... 291
Unexpected, Taking Care
of the........................................... 293
Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 330
Unleaded Gasoline......................... 174
Upholstery Cleaning...................... 289
Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 234
Vanity Mirror................................. 112
Vehicle Capacity Load .................. 185
Vehicle Dimensions .............. 326, 328
Vehicle Identification Number..... 324
Vehicle Storage.............................. 283
Ventilation............................. 121, 125
VIN.................................................. 324
Vinyl Cleaning................................ 289
Viscosity, Oil................................... 231
WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii
Warning Labels, Location of.......... 53
Warranty Coverages*................... 343
Washer, Windshield
Checking the Fluid Level......... 242
Indicator........................................ 62
Washer, Windshield
Operation...................................... 71
Washing.......................................... 286
Waxing and Polishing................... 287
Wheels
Adjusting the Steering................ 73
Alignment and Balance............. 266
Compact Spare........................... 294
Wrench....................................... 296
Windows
Cleaning...................................... 290
Operating the Power................. 103
Rear, Defogger............................ 72
Windshield
Cleaning........................................ 70
Defroster.......................... 123, 131
Washers........................................ 71
Wipers, Windshield
Changing Blades........................ 259
Operation...................................... 70
Worn Tires..................................... 265
Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 321
Main MenustService Information Summary
Gasoline: Unleaded gasoline, pump octane number of 86 or higher. Fuel Tank Capacity:
17.12 US gal (64.8 l, 14.26 Imp gal)
Recommended Engine Oil:
API Premium grade 5W-20
detergent oil (see page 230).
Oil change capacity (including filter):
LX, EX
4.5 US qt (4.3 l, 3.8 Imp qt)
LX-V6, EX-V6
4.6 US qt (4.4 l, 3.9 Imp qt) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) preferred, or a DEXRON® III ATF as a temporary replacement (see page 244).
Tire Pressure (measured cold): LX, EX Front/Rear:
29 psi (200 kPa , 2.0 kgf/cm2)
LX-V6
Front/Rear:
30 psi (210 kPa , 2.1 kgf/cm2)
EX-V6
Front/Rear:
32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm2)
Spare Tire: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm2)
5-speed Manual Transmission Fluid: Honda Manual Transmission Fluid preferred, or an API service SG, SH or SJ, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 motor oil as a temporary replacement (see page 245).
Capacity:
2.0 US qt (1.9 l, 1.7 Imp qt)
Power Steering Fluid: Honda Power Steering Fluid preferred, or another brand of power steering fluid as a temporary replacement. Do not use ATF (see page 248 ). Brake Fluid: Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid as a temporary replacement (see page 246).
Main Menust2001 Accord Coupe Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.
Contents
Owner's Identification Form
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety.................................................................................................................ii
Your Vehicle at a Glance.....................................................................................................................2
Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................5
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls.................................................................................................................55
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features ..............................................................................................117
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving..................................................................................................................................173
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving ..............................................................................................................................................187
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................215
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Appearance Care..............................................................................................................................285
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected......................................................................................................293
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Information.....................................................................................................................323
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................339
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................345
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index...................................................................................................................................................... I
Service Information Summary
A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
Introduction
NOTICE
As you read this manual, you will find information that is preceded by information is intended to help you avoid damage to your Honda, other property, or the environment.
symbol. This
Congratulations! Your selection of a 2001 Honda Accord 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 car 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 car according to the schedules given in this manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. When your car 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.
California Proposition 65 Warning
WARNING: This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Main MenustA Few Words About Safety
Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And operating this car 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 car. You must use your own good judgement.
You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms, including:
Safety Labels — on the car. Safety Messages — preceded by a safety alert symbol
three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION. These signal words mean:
and one of
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don't 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 car correctly and safely.
This entire book is filled with important safety information — please read it carefully.
Main MenustYour Car at a Glance
POWER DOOR LOCKS (P.81)
MIRROR CONTROLS IP.106)
INSTRUMENT PANEL (P.57) DIGITAL CLOCK (P.109)
HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS (P.118) CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM (P.125)
POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.103)
FUEL FILL DOOR/TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE (P.175/86)
HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.176)
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (P.192) MANUAL TRANSMISSION (P.191)
AUDIO SYSTEM (P.133, 148)
Main MenustINSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS (P. 69)
WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS (P. 70, 71)
REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER (P. 72)
Your Car at a Glance
MOONROOF SWITCH (P. 105)
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM ON/OFF SWITCH (on V6 models) (P. 202)
CRUISE CONTROL (P. 74)
HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS (P.71)
TILT ADJUSTMENT (P. 73)
HORN (P. 66)
HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS (P. 67, 69)
REMOTE AUDIO CONTROLS (P. 170) (on EX w/leather and EX-V6 models)
CRUISE CONTROL (P. 74)
Main MenustDriver and Passenger Safety
This section gives you important information about how to protect yourself and your passengers. It shows you how to use seat belts properly. It explains your Supple- mental Restraint System. And it tells you how to properly restrain infants and children in your car.
Important Safety Precautions .......... 6
Your Car's Safety Features .............. 7
Seat Belts........................................ 8
Airbags............................................ 9
Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10
Head Restraints........................... 10
Door Locks................................... 10
Pre-Drive Safety Checklist......... 11
Protecting Adults............................. 12
1. Close and Lock the Doors...... 12
2. Adjust the Front Seats............ 13
3. Adjust the Seat-Backs............. 14
4. Adjust the Head Restraints.... 15
5. Fasten and Position the Seat
Belts...................................... 15
6. Adjust the Steering Wheel..... 17
7. Maintain a Proper Sitting
Position................................. 17
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 18
Additional Safety Precautions.... 19
Protecting Children......................... 20
All Children Must Be
Restrained................................ 20
Children Should Sit in the Back
Seat........................................... 21
The Passenger's Front Airbag
Poses Serious Risks
to Children............................ 21
If You Must Drive with Several
Children.................................... 24
If a Child Requires Close
Attention................................... 24
Additional Safety Precautions.... 24
General Guidelines for Using
Child Seats................................ 25
Protecting Infants........................ 29
Protecting Small Children.......... 33
Protecting Larger Children........ 36
Using Child Seats with
Tethers...................................... 40
Additional Information About Your
Seat Belts.................................. 41
Seat Belt System Components... 41
Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 41
Automatic Seat Belt
Tensioners................................ 43
Seat Belt Maintenance................ 44
Additional Information About
Your Airbags............................ 45
SRS Components......................... 45
How Your Front Airbags
Work..........................................45
How Your Side Airbags Work.... 47
How the SRS Indicator Light
Works........................................48
How The Side Airbag Indicator
Light Works............................. 49
Airbag Service.............................. 50
Additional Safety Precautions.... 50
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 52
Safety Labels.................................... 53
Driver and Passenger Safety
Main MenustBe Aware of Airbag Hazards While airbags can save lives, they can cause serious or fatal injuries to occupants who sit too close to them, or are not properly restrained. Infants, young children, and short adults are at the greatest risk. Be sure to follow all instructions and warnings in this manual. (See page
9.)
Don't Drink and Drive Alcohol and driving don't mix. Even one drink can reduce your ability to respond to changing conditions, and your reaction time gets worse with every additional drink. So don't drink and drive, and don't let your friends drink and drive, either.
Control Your Speed Excessive speed is a major factor in crash injuries and deaths. Generally, the higher the speed the greater the risk, but serious accidents can also occur at lower speeds. Never drive faster than is safe for current conditions, regardless of the maximum speed posted.
Keep Your Car in Safe Condition Having a tire blowout or a mechanical failure can be extremely hazardous. To reduce the possibility of such problems, check your tire pressures and condition frequently, and perform all regularly scheduled maintenance. (See page 220.)
Important Safety Precautions
You'll find many safety recommendations throughout this section, and throughout this manual. The recommendations on this page are the ones we consider to be the most important.
Always Wear Your Seat Belt A seat belt is your best protection in all types of collisions. Airbags supplement seat belts, but airbags are designed to inflate only in a moderate to severe frontal collision. So even though your car is equipped with airbags, make sure you and your passengers always wear your seat belts, and wear them properly. (See page 15 .)
Restrain All Children Children are safest when they are properly restrained in the back seat, not the front seat. A child who is too small for a seat belt must be properly restrained in a child safely seat. (See page 20.)
Driver and Passenger Safety
Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour Car's Safety Features
Your car is equipped with many features that work together to protect you and your passengers during a crash.
Some safety features do not require any action on your part. These include a strong steel framework that forms a safety cage around the passenger compartment; front and rear crush zones that are designed to crumple and absorb energy during a crash; a collapsible steering column; and seat belt tensioners that automatically tighten the front seat belts in the event of a crash.
CONTINUED
Driver and Passenger Safety
(1) Safety Cage (2) Crush Zones (3) Seats & Seat-Backs (4) Head Restraints (5) Collapsible Steering Column (6) Seat Belts (7) Front Airbags (8) Side Airbags* (9) Seat Belt Tensioners (10) Door Locks
* If equipped
Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour Car's Safety Features
These safety features are designed to reduce the severity of injuries in a crash. However, you and your passengers can't take full advantage of these safety features unless you remain sitting in a proper position and always wear your seat belts properly. In fact, some safely features can contribute to injuries if they are not used properly.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Seat Belts For your safety, and the safety of your passengers, your car is equipped with seat belts in all seating positions.
Your seat belt system also includes a light on the
instrument panel to remind you and your passengers to fasten your seat belts.
Why Wear Seat Belts Seat belts are the single most effective safety device for adults and larger children. (Infants and smaller children must be properly restrained in child seats.)
Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even though your car has airbags.
In addition, most states and all Canadian provinces require you to wear seat belts.
Not wearing a seat belt properly 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.
When properly worn, seat belts:
Keep you connected to the vehicle so you can take advantage of the vehicle's built-in safety features.
Help protect you in almost every type of crash, including frontal, side, and rear impacts and rollovers.
Main MenuTable of ContentsstHelp keep you from being thrown against the inside of the vehicle and against other occupants.
Airbags
Your Car's Safety Features
Keep you from being thrown out of the vehicle.
Help keep you in a good position should the airbags ever deploy. A good position reduces the risk of injury from an inflating airbag, and allows you to get the best advantage from the airbag.
Of course, seat belts cannot completely protect you in every crash. But in most cases, seat belts can reduce your risk of serious injury.
What you should do: Always wear your seat belt, and make sure you wear it properly.
Your car has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with front airbags to help protect the heads and chests of the driver and a front seat passenger during a moderate to severe frontal collision.
Some models also have side airbags to help protect the upper torso of the driver or a front seat passenger during a moderate to severe side impact.
CONTINUED
Driver and Passenger Safety
Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour Car's Safety Features
The most important things you need to know about your airbags are:
Airbags do not replace seat belts. They are designed to supplement the seat belts.
Airbags offer no protection in rear impacts, rollovers, or minor frontal or side collisions.
Airbags can pose serious hazards. To do their job, airbags must inflate with tremendous force and speed. So while airbags help save lives, they can cause minor injuries, or more serious or even fatal injuries if occupants are not properly restrained or sitting properly.
What you should do: Always wear your seat belt properly, and sit upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel or dashboard.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Seats & Seat-Backs Your car's seats are designed to keep you in a comfortable, upright position so you can take full advantage of the protection offered by seat belts and the energy absorbing materials in the seats.
How you adjust your seats and seat- backs can also affect your safety. For example, sitting too close to the steering wheel or dashboard increases the risk of you or your passenger being injured by striking the inside of the car, or by an inflating airbag.
Reclining a seat-back too far reduces the seat belt's effectiveness and increases the chance that the seat's occupant will slide under the seat belt in a crash and be seriously injured.
What you should do: Move the front seats as far back as possible, and keep adjustable seat-backs in an upright position whenever the car is moving.
Head Restraints Head restraints can help protect you from whiplash and other injuries. For maximum protection, the back of your head should rest against the center of the head restraint.
Door Locks Keeping your doors locked reduces the chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash. It also helps prevent occupants from accidentally opening a door and falling out, and outsiders from unexpectedly opening your doors.
Main MenuTable of ContentsstPre-Drive Safety Checklist To make sure you and your passengers get the maximum protection from your car's safety features, check the following each time before you drive away:
All adults, and children who have outgrown child safety seats, are wearing their seat belts and wearing them properly (see page 15).
Any infant or small child is properly restrained in a child seat in the back seat (see page 20).
Front seat occupants are sitting upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel and dashboard (see page 13).
Seat-backs are upright (see page 14).
Head restraints are properly adjusted (see page 15).
Both doors are closed and locked (see page 12).
All cargo is properly stored or secured (see page 184 ).
Your Car's Safety Features
The rest of this section gives more detailed information about how you can maximize your safety.
Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes, even when seat belts are properly worn and the airbags deploy.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Adults
Introduction The following pages provide instructions on how to properly protect the driver and other adult occupants.
These instructions also apply to children who have outgrown child seats and are large enough to wear lap/shoulder belts. (See page 36 for important additional guidelines on how to properly protect larger children.)
Driver and Passenger Safety
1. Close and Lock the Doors After everyone has entered the car, be sure the doors are closed and locked.
For security, locked doors can prevent an outsider from unexpectedly opening a door when you come to a stop.
See page 81 for how to lock the doors.
Your car has a door monitor light on the instrument panel to indicate when a specific door is not tightly closed.
For safety, locking the doors reduces the chance that a passenger, especially a child, will open a door while the car is moving and accidentally fall out. It also reduces the chance of someone being thrown out of the car during a crash.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst2.Adjust the Front Seats
To reduce the chance of injury, wear your seat belt properly, sit upright with your back against the seat, and move the seat as far back as possible from the steering wheel while still maintaining full control of the car. Also make sure your front seat passenger moves the seat as far to the rear as possible.
Any driver who sits too close to the steering wheel is at risk of being seriously injured or killed by striking the steering wheel or from being struck by an inflating front airbag during a crash.
Sitting too close to a front airbag can result in serious injury or death if the front airbags inflate.
Always sit as far back from the front airbags as possible.
Protecting Adults
Most shorter drivers can get far enough away from the steering wheel and still reach the pedals. However, if you are concerned about sitting too close, we recommend that you investigate whether some type of adaptive equipment may help.
Once your seat is adjusted correctly, rock it back and forth to make sure the seat is locked in position.
See page 94 for how to adjust the front seats.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Main MenuTable of ContentsstA front passenger should also adjust the seat-back to an upright position, but as far from the dashboard as possible. A passenger who sits too close to the dashboard could be injured if the front airbag inflates.
Reclining a seat-back so that the shoulder part of the belt no longer rests against the occupant's chest reduces the protective capability of the belt. It also increases the chance of sliding under the belt in a crash and being seriously injured. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk of injury.
Reclining the seat-back too far can result in serious injury or death in a crash.
Adjust the seat-back to an upright position and sit well back in the seat.
See page 94 for how to adjust seat- backs.
Protecting Adults
3.Adjust the Seat-Backs
Adjust the driver's seat-back to a comfortable, upright position, leaving ample space between your chest and the airbag cover in the center of the steering wheel. If you sit too close to the steering wheel, you could be injured if the front airbag inflates.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Main MenuTable of Contentsst4.Adjust the Head Restraints
Before driving, make sure everyone with an adjustable head restraint has properly positioned the head restraint. The restraint should be positioned so the back of the occupant's head rests against the center of the restraint. A taller person should adjust the restraint as high as possible.
Improperly positioning head restraints reduces their effectiveness and you can be seriously injured in a crash.
Make sure head restraints are in place and positioned properly before driving.
Properly adjusted head restraints will help protect occupants from whiplash and other crash injuries.
See page 99 for how to adjust the head restraints.
Protecting Adults
5.Fasten and Position the Seat
Belts
Insert the latch plate into the buckle, then tug on the belt to make sure the belt is securely latched. Also check that the belt is not twisted, because a twisted belt can cause serious injuries in a crash.
CONTINUED
Driver and Passenger Safety
Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf necessary, pull up on the belt again to remove any slack from the shoulder part, then check that the belt rests across the center of your chest and over your shoulder. This spreads the forces of a crash over the strongest bones in your upper body.
Improperly positioning the seat belts can cause serious injury or death in a crash.
Make sure all seat belts are properly positioned before driving.
Never place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This could cause very serious injuries in a crash.
If a seat belt does not seem to work as it should, it may not protect the occupant in a crash. No one should sit in a seat with an inoperative seat belt. Anyone using a seat belt that is not working properly can be seriously injured or killed. Have your Honda dealer check the belt as soon as possible.
See page 41 for additional information about your seat belt system and how to take care of your belts.
Protecting Adults
Position the lap part of the belt as low as possible across your hips, then pull up on the shoulder part of the belt so the lap part fits snugly. This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash and reduces the chance of internal injuries.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Main MenuTable of Contentsst7.Maintain a Proper Sitting
Position
After all occupants have adjusted their seats and put on seat belts, it is very important that they continue to sit upright, well back in their seats, with their feet on the floor, until the car is parked and the engine is off.
Sitting improperly can increase the chance of injury during a crash. For example, if an occupant slouches, lies down, turns sideways, sits forward, leans forward or sideways, or puts one or both feet up, the chance of injury during a crash is greatly increased.
6.Adjust the Steering Wheel
Adjust the steering wheel, if needed, so that the wheel points toward your chest, not toward your face.
Pointing the steering wheel toward your chest provides optimal protection from the airbag.
See page 73 for how to adjust the steering wheel.
Protecting Adults
In addition, an occupant who is out of position in the front seat can be seriously or fatally injured by striking interior parts of the car, or by being struck by an inflating front airbag. Being struck by an inflating side airbag can result in possibly serious injuries.
Sitting improperly or out of position can result in serious injury or death in a crash.
Always sit upright, well back in the seat, with your feet on the floor.
CONTINUED
Driver and Passenger Safety
Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Adults
Remember, to get the best protection from your car's airbags and other safety features, you must sit properly and wear your seat belt properly.
Advice for Pregnant Women
Pregnant women should also sit upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel or dashboard. This will reduce the risk of injuries to both the mother and her unborn child that can be caused by a crash or an inflating airbag.
Each time you have a check-up, ask your doctor if it's okay for you to drive.
Because protecting the mother is the best way to protect her unborn child, a pregnant woman should always wear a seat belt whenever she drives or rides in a car.
Remember to keep the lap portion of the belt as low as possible across your hips.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Safety Precautions
Two people should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash.
Do not put any accessories on seat belts. Devices intended to improve occupant comfort or reposition the shoulder part of a seat belt can severely compromise the protective capability of the seat belt and increase the chance of serious injury in a crash.
Do not place hard or sharp objects between yourself and a front