2003 Honda Accord Coupe Owners Manual

off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent future corrosion.

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Battery posts,

WARNING: terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.

Battery

4-cylinder models

6-cylinder models

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damage to the car’s electrical system.

If the terminals are severely cor- roded, clean them with baking soda and water. Then use a wrench to loosen and remove the cables from the terminals. Always disconnect the negative ( ) cable first and recon- nect it last. Clean the battery termi- nals with a terminal cleaning tool or wire brush. Reconnect and tighten the cables, then coat the terminals with grease.

−

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Charging the battery with the cables connected can seriously damage your car’s electronic controls. Detach the battery cables bef ore connecting the battery to a charger.

If your car’s battery is disconnected or goes dead, the AUTO feature of the driver’s window will be disabled. You should reset the AUTO feature (see page

105

).

Battery

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled mechanic do the battery maintenance.

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Check the condition of the wiper blades at least every six months. Look for signs of cracking in the rubber, or areas that are getting hard. Replace the blades if you find these signs, or if they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.

WIPER ARMS

Wiper Blades

To replace the blade:

1.

Raise the wiper arm off the windshield. Raise the driver’s side first, then the passenger’s side.

Do not open the hood when the wiper arms are raised, or you will damage the hood and the arms.

LOCK TAB

2.

Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper arm by pushing in the lock tab. Hold the lock tab in while you push the blade assembly toward the base of the arm.

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Wiper Blades

BLADE

5.

Slide the new wiper blade into the holder until the tabs lock.

6.

7.

Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place.

Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield. Lower the passenger’s side first, then the driver’s side.

BLADE

REINFORCEMENT

3.

Remove the blade from its holder by grasping the tabbed end of the blade. Pull firmly until the tabs come out of the holder.

4.

Examine the new wiper blades. If they have no plastic or metal rein- forcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.

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Air Conditioning System

Your car’s air conditioning is a sealed system. Any major maintenance, such as recharging, should be done by a qualified mechanic. You can do a couple of things to make sure the air conditioning works efficiently.

Periodically check the engine’s radiator and air conditioning condenser for leaves, insects, and dirt stuck to the front surface. These block the air flow and reduce cooling efficiency. Use a light spray from a hose or a soft brush to remove them.

The condenser and radiator f ins bend easily. Only use a low-pressure spray or sof t-bristle brush to clean them.

AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER

If the air conditioning does not get as cold as before, have your dealer check the system. Recharge the system with Refrigerant HFC-134a (R-134a). (See Specifications on pages

and

396

398

.)

Whenever you have the air conditioning system serviced, make sure the service f acility uses a ref rigerant recycling system. This system captures the ref rigerant f or reuse. Releasing ref rigerant into the atmosphere can damage the environment.

Run the air conditioning at least once a week during the cold weather months. Run it for at least ten minutes while you are driving at a steady speed with the engine at normal operating temperature. This circulates the lubricating oil con- tained in the refrigerant.

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Dust and Pollen Filter

The dust and pollen filter removes pollen and dust that is brought in from the outside through the heating and cooling system/climate control system.

This filter should be replaced every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) under normal conditions. It should be replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000
km) if you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air from industry and diesel-powered vehicles. Replace it more often if air flow from the heating and cooling system/climate control system becomes less than usual.

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Maintenance

Replacement

2.

Push the stop on the right side of the glove box to detach it from the glove box.

3.

Pivot the glove box out of the way.

STOP

The dust and pollen filter is located behind the glove box.

To replace it:

1.

Open the glove box.

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4.

Push in the tabs on the corners of the dust and pollen filter case. Pull out the case.

5.

Remove the filter from the case.

6.

Install the new filter in the case. Make sure the arrows of the ‘‘AIR FLOW’’ marks on the filter point to the air flow direction (downward).

Dust and Pollen Filter

7.

Install the case. Make sure both tabs ‘‘click’’ into place.

8.

Install the glove box stop, and close the glove box.

If you are not sure how to replace the dust and pollen filter, have it replaced by your Honda dealer.

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Proper range

POINTER

Timing Belt 6-cylindermodelsonly The timing belt should normally be replaced at the intervals shown in the maintenance schedule.

Replace these belts at 60,000 miles (U.S.) or 100,000 km (Canada) if you regularly drive your car in one or more of these conditions:

6-cylinder models If the pointer is out of this range or you see signs of wear, have the drive belt replaced by your Honda dealer as soon as possible.

In very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°C). In very low temperatures (under 29°C).

20°F,

−

−

Drive Belt, Timing Belt

Drive Belt

POINTER

Proper range 4-cylinder models Check the condition of the drive belt. Examine the edges of the belt for cracks or fraying.

An auto-tensioner adjusts the tension of the drive belt. The pointer on the auto-tensioner should be in the proper range. It should be checked according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule.

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Tires

Inflation Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life, and riding comfort. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated. Overinflated tires can make your car ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

We recommend that you visually check your tires every day. If you think a tire might be low, check it immediately with a tire gauge.

Use a gauge to measure the air pressure at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1
to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. Remember to check the spare tire at the same time you check all the other tires.

Check the pressure in the tires when they are cold. This means the car has been parked for at least three hours. If you have to drive the car before checking the tire pressure, the tires can still be considered ‘‘cold’’ if you drive less than 1 mile (1.6 km).

To safely operate your car, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated. The following pages give more detailed information on how and when to check air pressure, how to inspect your tires for damage and wear, and what to do when your tires need to be replaced.

Using tires that are excessively worn or improperly inflated can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding tire inflation and maintenance.

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Tires

If you check the pressure when the tires are hot [the car has been driven several miles (kilometers)], you will see readings 4 to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4 kgf/cm ) higher than the cold reading. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the specified cold pressure. The tire will be underinflated.

You should get your own tire pressure gauge and use it whenever you check your tire pressures. This will make it easier for you to tell if a pressure loss is due to a tire problem and not due to a variation between gauges.

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Maintenance

RecommendedTirePressuresfor NormalDriving The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions and speeds. Tire pressures for high speed driving are the same as for normal driving.

Allmodelsexcept4-cylinderLX

Tire Size

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

P205/60R16 91V P215/50R17 93V

＊

＊

Rear:

30 psi (210 kPa , 2.1 kgf/cm ) 29 psi (200 kPa , 2.0 kgf/cm )

＊

＊

＊ ＊

EX, LX-V6 and EX-V6 with A/T EX-V6 with M/T

4-cylinderLXmodel

Tire Size

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

30 psi (210 kPa , 2.1 kgf/cm )

P205/65R 15 92H

Rear:

29 psi (200 kPa , 2.0 kgf/cm )

Allmodels The compact spare tire pressure is: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

These pressures are also given on the tire information label on the driver’s doorjamb.

Tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured. However, because leakage is often very slow, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

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Inspection Every time you check inflation, you should also examine the tires for damage, foreign objects, and wear.

You should look for:

Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if you find either of these conditions.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side of the tire. Replace the tire if you can see fabric or cord.

Excessive tread wear.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS Your car’s tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down to that point, you will see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide band running across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. A tire that is this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see the tread wear indicator in three or more places around the tire.

Tires

Maintenance In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment.

The tires were properly balanced by the factory. They may need to be rebalanced at some time before they are worn out. Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consis- tent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel for repair.

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Tires

Make sure the installer balances the wheels when you have new tires installed. This increases riding comfort and tire life. Your car’s original tires were dynamic or ‘‘spin’’ balanced at the factory. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

OnEXandEX-V6models Improper wheel weights can damage your car’s aluminum wheels. Use only Honda wheel weights f or balancing.

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Maintenance

Tire Rotation

Front

Front

(For Directional Tires and Wheels)

(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels) To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, you should have the tires rotated every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) on 4-cylinder models and 7,500 miles (12,000 km) on 6-cylinder models. Move the tires to the positions shown in the chart each time they are rotated.

When shopping for replacement tires, you may find that some tires are ‘‘directional.’’ This means they are designed to rotate only in one direction. If you use directional tires, they should be rotated only front-to- back.

Replacing Tires and Wheels The tires that came with your car were selected to match the perform- ance capabilities of the car while providing the best combination of handling, ride comfort, and long life. You should replace them with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall). Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your car can reduce its braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy.

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Installing improper tires on your car can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owner’s manual.

It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, then replace the two front tires or the two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your car’s handling.

The ABS works by comparing the speed of the wheels. When replacing tires, use the same size originally supplied with the car. Tire size and construction can affect wheel speed and may cause the system to work inconsistently.

If you ever need to replace a wheel, make sure the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheel that came on your car. Replacement wheels are available at your Honda dealer.

Wheels and Tires Wheels: LXmodel 15 x 6 1/2 JJ

EX,LX-V6andEX-V6withA/Tmodels 16 x 6 1/2 JJ

EX-V6withM/Tmodel 17 x 7 JJ

Tires

Tires: LXmodel P205/65R15 92H

EX,LX-V6andEX-V6withA/Tmodels P205/60R16 91V

EX-V6withM/Tmodel P215/50R17 93V

See page DOT Tire Quality Grading.

for information about

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Tires

＋

Winter Driving Tires that are marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an all-weather tread design. They should be suitable for most winter driving conditions. Tires without these markings are designed for optimum traction in dry conditions. They may not provide adequate performance in winter driving. For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.

SnowTires If you mount snow tires on your Honda, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as the original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels to balance your car’s handling in all weather conditions. Keep in mind the traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may not be as high as your car’s original equipment tires. You should drive cautiously even when the roads are clear. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommenda- tions.

TireChains Mount snow chains on your tires when required by driving conditions or local laws. Install them only on the front tires.

Because your car has limited tire clearance, Honda strongly recommends using the chains listed below, made by Security Chain Company (SCC).

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LX Link-type: SCC Quick Grip QG1134
Cable-types: SCC Radial Chain CH2311T or SCC SC Cable SC1030

EX,LX-V6andEX-V6withautomatic transmission Cable-types: SCC Radial Chain CH2311T or SCC SC Cable SC1030

EX-V6withmanualtransmission CH2412T

These chains are the only ones that have been approved by Honda for use on your car. Since Honda cannot test all chains, you must be personally responsible for proper selection, installation, and use of snow chains.

Tires

The chains listed here are available at many auto supply stores. For a complete list of stores, visit the SCC website at www.scc-chain.com. When installing chains, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and mount them as tightly as you can. Drive slowly with chains installed.

If you ever hear the chains contacting the body or chassis, stop and investigate. If the chains have loosened, retighten them. Make sure they do not contact the brake lines or suspension.

Remove the chains as soon as you begin driving on cleared roads.

Using the wrong chains, or not properly installing chains, can damage the brake lines and cause a crash in which you can be seriously injured or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding the selection and use of tire chains.

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Lights

Check the operation of your car’s exterior lights at least once a month. A burned out bulb can create an unsafe condition by reducing your car’s visibility and the ability to signal your intentions to other drivers.

HIGH BEAM HEADLIGHT

TURN SIGNAL/PARKING/SIDE MARKER LIGHT

LOW BEAM HEADLIGHT

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TURN SIGNAL LIGHT

HIGH-MOUNT BRAKE LIGHT

Lights

Check the following:

Headlights (low and high beam) Parking lights Taillights Brake lights High-mount brake light Turn signals Back-up lights Hazard light function License plate lights Side marker lights Daytime running lights (Canadian models)

If you find any bulbs are burned out, replace them as soon as possible. Refer to the chart on pages 399
replacement bulb is needed.

397
to determine what type of

and

STOP/TAILLIGHT/ SIDE MARKER LIGHT

BACK-UP LIGHT

LICENSE PLATE LIGHTS

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Lights

Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your car was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk or pull a trailer, readjustment may be required. Adjustment of the headlights should be performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb Your car has two bulbs on each side, four in total. Make sure you are replacing the bulb that is burned out. Your car uses halogen headlight bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its plastic case and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

HighBeamHeadlight

FASTENERS

AIR INTAKE COVER

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

4-cylinder models Open the hood. If you need to 1. change a bulb on the passenger’s side, undo the two fasteners and remove the air intake cover.

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Lights

AIR INTAKE COVER

FASTENERS

6-cylinder models

TAB

BULB

4-cylinder models Remove the electrical connector 2. from the bulb by squeezing the connector to unlock the tab, then slide the connector off the bulb.

BULB

TAB

6-cylinder models Push the electrical connector back 5. onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.

3.

4.

Remove the bulb by turning it approximately one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Insert the new bulb into the hole and turn it one-quarter turn clock- wise to lock it in place.

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Lights

6.

Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

7.

(Passenger’s side) Reinstall the air intake cover. Reinstall the two fasteners and secure them by pushing on the heads until they lock.

LowBeamHeadlight

HOLDING CLIPS

2.

Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to remove the two holding clips from the inner fender.

3.

Pull the inner fender cover away from the fender and bumper.

1.

If you are changing the bulb on the passenger’s side, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, and turn off the engine. If you are changing the bulb on the driver’s side, turn the steering wheel to the right.

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AIR INTAKE DUCT

EX-V6 with M/T

4.

OnEX-V6modelwithmanual transmission If you need to change the low beam headlight bulb on the driver’s side, remove the air intake duct. You can reach the air intake duct from the back side of the inner fender.

5.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by squeezing the connector to unlock the tab, then slide the connector off the bulb.

6.

Remove the bulb by turning it approximately one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Lights

7.

8.

Insert the new bulb into the hole and turn it one-quarter turn clock- wise to lock it in place.

Push the electrical connector back onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.

9.

Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

10.

OnEX-V6modelwithmanual transmission Reinstall the air intake duct securely.

11.

Put the inner fender cover in place. Install the two holding clips. Lock each one in place by pushing on the center.

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Lights

Replacing a Front Turn Signal/ Parking/Side Marker Light Bulb 1.

If you are changing the bulb on the passenger’s side, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, and turn off the engine. If you are changing the bulb on the driver’s side, turn the steering wheel to the right.

HOLDING CLIPS

2.

Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to remove the two holding clips from the inner fender.

3.

Pull the inner fender cover away from the fender and bumper.

4.

Remove the socket from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

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5.

Remove the burned out bulb from the socket by pushing it in and turning the bulb counterclockwise until it unlocks.

6.

Install the new bulb in the socket. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

7.

Insert the socket back into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

8.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

9.

Put the inner fender cover in place. Install the holding clips. Lock each one in place by pushing on the center.

Lights

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Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs

COVER

1.

Open the trunk.

Remove the light assembly cover by pulling its outside edge.

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Maintenance

2.

Determine which of the three bulbs is burned out: stop/taillight/ side marker, back-up or turn signal.

3.

Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

4.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

5.

Reinstall the socket into the light assembly by turning it clockwise until it locks.

6.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

7.

Install the light assembly cover. Make sure it snaps into place.

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Replacing a Rear License Plate Bulb

TRIM CLIPS

1.

Open the trunk.

2.

6-cylindermodels Remove the six trim clips from the trunk lid trim by carefully prying them using a small, flat-tipped screwdriver.

Carefully bend back the corner of the trunk lid trim to expose the bulbs.

3.

4.

Remove the socket from the light assembly by squeezing the tabs on both sides of the socket.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb in until it bottoms in the socket.

Lights

5.

Turn on the parking lights and check that the new bulb is working.

6.

Reinstall the socket back in place by pushing it in until it latches.

7.

8.

6-cylindermodels Reinstall the trunk lid trim. Make sure it is installed under the edge of the trunk lid seal.

Put each trim clip in the hole on the trunk lid trim and push on the center until it locks (the center is flush with the head).

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Lights

Replacing a High-mount Brake Light Bulb

3.

Reinstall the socket. Turn it clock- wise until it locks.

4.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

BULB

SOCKET

1.

Open the trunk and remove the socket from the light assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counter- clockwise.

2.

Remove the burned-out bulb by pulling it straight out of the socket. Install the new bulb in the socket.

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Replacing Bulbs in the Interior Lights The ceiling light, spotlight, door light and vanity mirror light come apart the same way, but they do not use the same type of bulb.

1.

Remove the lens by carefully prying on the edge of the lens with a fingernail file or a small flat-tip screwdriver. Do not pry on the edge of the housing around the lens.

Door light:

Pry on the top left or right of the lens.

Ceiling light:

Pry on the front edge of the lens near both sides.

Spotlights:

Pry on the inner edge of both spotlights.

Lights

CEILING LIGHT

BULB

OnLXandLX-V6models

SPOTLIGHTS

BULBS

2.

Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs.

3.

Push the new bulb into the metal tabs. Carefully snap the lens back in place.

OnEXandEX-V6models

SPOTLIGHTS

BULBS

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Lights

DOOR COURTESY LIGHT

VANITY MIRROR LIGHTS

BULB

BULBS

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Maintenance

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Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb

TRUNK LIGHT

BULB

2.

3.

Pull the bulb straight out of the holder. Push the new bulb straight into the holder until it bottoms.

Put the light assembly back into the hole, left side first. Push on the right side until it snaps into place.

1.

Open the trunk. Put a cloth on the right side edge of the trunk light assembly. Remove the trunk light assembly by using a small flat-tipped screwdriver to pry carefully on the right edge of the assembly.

Lights

Maintenance

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Storing Your Car

If you need to park your car for an extended period (more than one month), there are several things you should do to prepare it for storage. Proper preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your car back on the road. If possible, store your car indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter (see page

296

).

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

Clean the interior. Make sure the carpeting, floor mats, etc. are completely dry.

Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in Reverse (manual) or Park (automatic).

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Maintenance

Block the rear wheels.

If the car is to be stored for a longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (if the car is being stored indoors).

Disconnect the battery.

Support the front wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield.

To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and trunk seals. Also, apply a car body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and trunk seals.

Cover the car with a ‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made from a porous material such as cotton. Nonporous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.

If possible, run the engine for a while periodically (preferably once a month).

If you store your car for 12 months or longer, have your Honda dealer perform the inspections called for in the 24 months maintenance schedule (Normal Conditions) as soon as you take it out of storage (see page ). 274
The replacements called for in the maintenance schedule are not needed unless the car has actually reached that time or mileage.

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Appearance Care

Regular cleaning and polishing of your Honda helps to keep it ‘‘new’’ looking. This section gives you information on how to clean your car and preserve its appearance: the paint, brightwork, wheels and interior. Also included are several things you can do to help prevent corrosion.

Exterior Care

Washing Waxing Aluminum Wheels Paint Touch-up

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Interior Care Carpeting Floor Mats Fabric Vinyl Leather Seat Belts Windows Air Fresheners

Corrosion Protection Body Repairs

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Exterior Care

Washing Frequent washing helps preserve your car’s beauty. Dirt and grit can scratch the paint, while tree sap and bird droppings can permanently ruin the finish.

Wash your car in a shady area, not in direct sunlight. If the car is parked in the sun, move it into the shade and let the exterior cool down before you start.

Only use the solvents and cleaners recommended in this Owner’s Manual.

Chemical solvents and strong cleaners can damage the paint, metal, and plastic on your car.

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Appearance Care

Rinse the car thoroughly with cool water to remove loose dirt.

Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix in a mild detergent, such as dishwashing liquid or a product made especially for car washing.

Wash the car using the water and detergent solution and a soft- bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth. Start at the top and work your way down. Rinse frequently.

Check the body for road tar, tree sap, etc. Remove these stains with tar remover or turpentine. Rinse it off immediately so it does not harm the finish. Remember to re- wax these areas, even if the rest of the car does not need waxing.

When you have washed and rinsed the whole exterior, dry it with a chamois or soft towel. Letting it air-dry will cause dulling and water spots.

As you dry the car, inspect it for chips and scratches that could allow corrosion to start. Repair them with touch-up paint (see page

357

).

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Waxing Always wash and dry the whole car before waxing it. You should wax your car, including the metal trim, whenever water sits on the surface in large patches. It should form into beads or droplets after waxing.

You should use a quality liquid or paste wax. Apply it according to the instructions on the container. In general, there are two types of products:

−

Waxes A wax coats the finish and protects it from damage by exposure to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You should use a wax on your Honda when it is new.

−

Polishes and cleaner/

Polishes waxes can restore the shine to paint that has oxidized and lost some of its shine. They normally contain mild abrasives and solvents that remove the top layer of the finish. You

should use a polish on your Honda if the finish does not have its original shine after using a wax.

Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with removers also takes off the wax. Remember to re-wax those areas, even if the rest of the car does not need waxing.

Aluminum Wheels EXandEX-V6models Clean your Honda’s aluminum alloy wheels as you do the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly.

The wheels have a protective clear- coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Using harsh chemicals, including some commercial wheel cleaners or stiff brushes, can damage this clear-coat. Only use a mild detergent and soft brush or sponge to clean the wheels.

Exterior Care

Paint Touch-up Your dealer has touch-up paint to match your car’s color. The color code is printed on a sticker on the driver’s doorjamb. Take this code to your dealer so you are sure to get the correct color.

Inspect your car frequently for chips or scratches in the paint. Repair them right away to prevent corrosion of the metal underneath. Use the touch-up paint only on small chips and scratches. More extensive paint damage should be repaired by a professional.

Appearance Care

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Floor Mats

Interior Care

Carpeting Vacuum the carpeting frequently to remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make the carpet wear out faster. Periodically shampoo the carpet to keep it looking new. Use one of the foam-type carpet cleaners on the market. Follow the instructions that come with the cleaner, applying it with a sponge or soft brush. Keep the carpeting as dry as possible by not adding water to the foam.

The Honda driver’s floor mat that came with your car was designed to be hooked over the floor mat anchors. This keeps the floor mat from sliding forward and possibly interfering with the pedals.

If you remove the driver’s floor mat, make sure to re-anchor it when you put it back in your car.

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Appearance Care

If you replace it, use a Honda floor mat that is designed to be used with the floor mat anchors in your car.

If you use a non-Honda floor mat in the driver’s footwell, make sure it fits properly and that it can be used with the floor mat anchor.

Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mat, otherwise the additional mats may slide forward and interfere with the pedals.

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Leather OnEXwithleatherinteriorandEX-V6
models Vacuum dirt and dust from the leather frequently. Pay particular attention to the pleats and seams. Clean the leather with a soft cloth dampened with clear water, then buff it with a clean, dry cloth. If further cleaning is needed, use a soap specifically for leather, such as saddle soap. Apply this soap with a damp, soft cloth. Wipe down and buff as described above.

Fabric Vacuum dirt and dust out of the material frequently. For general cleaning, use a solution of mild soap and lukewarm water, letting it air dry. To clean off stubborn spots, use a commercially-available fabric cleaner. Test it on a hidden area of the fabric first, to make sure it does not bleach or stain the fabric. Follow the instructions that come with the cleaner.

Vinyl Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft cloth dampened in a solution of mild soap and water. Use the same solution with a soft-bristle brush on more difficult spots. You can also use commercially-available spray or foam-type vinyl cleaners.

Interior Care

Seat Belts

LOOP

If your seat belts get dirty, you can use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean them. Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. They can weaken the belt material. Let the belts air- dry before you use the car.

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Interior Care

Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat belt anchors can cause the belts to retract slowly. Wipe the insides of the loops with a clean cloth dampened in mild soap and warm water or isopropyl alcohol.

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Appearance Care

Air Fresheners If you want to use an air freshener/ deodorizer in the interior of your car, it is best to use a solid type. Some liquid air fresheners contain chemi- cals that may cause parts of the interior trim and fabric to crack or discolor.

If you use a liquid air freshener, make sure you fasten it securely so it does not spill as you drive.

Windows Clean the windows, inside and out, with a commercially-available glass cleaner. You can also use a mixture of one part white vinegar to ten parts water. This will remove the haze that builds up on the inside of the windows. Use a soft cloth or paper towels to clean all glass and clear plastic surfaces.

The rear window def ogger and antenna wires are bonded to the inside of the glass. Wiping vigorously up-and- down can dislodge and break these wires. When cleaning the rear window, use gentle pressure and wipe side-to- side.

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Two factors normally contribute to causing corrosion in your car:

1.

Moisture trapped in body cavities. Dirt and road salt that collects in hollows on the underside of the car stays damp, promoting corrosion in that area.

Many corrosion-preventive measures are built into your Honda. You can help keep your car from corroding by performing some simple periodic maintenance:

Repair chips and scratches in the paint as soon as you discover them.

2.

Removal of paint and protective coatings from the exterior and underside of the car.

Inspect and clean out the drain holes in the bottom of the doors and body.

Check the floor coverings for dampness. Carpeting and floor mats may remain damp for a long time, especially in winter. This dampness can eventually cause the floor panels to corrode.

Corrosion Protection

Use a high-pressure spray to clean the underside of your car. This is especially important in areas that use road salt in winter. It is also a good idea in humid climates and areas subject to salt air. Be careful not to damage the ABS wheel sensors and wiring at each wheel.

Have the corrosion-preventive coatings on the underside of your car inspected and repaired periodically.

Appearance Care

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Body Repairs

Body repairs can affect your car’s resistance to corrosion. If your car needs repairs after a collision, pay close attention to the parts used in the repair and the quality of the work.

Make sure the repair facility uses Honda replacement body parts. Some companies make sheet metal pieces that seem to duplicate the original Honda body parts, but are actually inferior in fit, finish, and corrosion resistance. Once installed, they do not give the same high- quality appearance.

When reporting your collision to the insurance company, tell them you want Honda parts used in the repair. Although most insurers recognize the quality of original parts, some may try to specify that the repairs be done with other available parts. You should investigate this before any repairs have begun.

Take your car to your authorized Honda dealer for inspection after the repairs are completed. Your dealer can make sure that quality materials were used, and that corrosion- preventive coatings were applied to all repaired and replaced parts.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more- common problems that motorists experience with their cars. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your car towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If Your Engine Won’t Start Nothing Happens or the

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Starter Motor Operates

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Very Slowly

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The Starter Operates

Normally Jump Starting If Your Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp

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Brake System Indicator Closing the Moonroof Fuses

Checking and Replacing

Emergency Towing

Readiness Codes

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Compact Spare Tire

Your car has a compact spare tire that takes up less space. Use this spare tire as a temporary replace- ment only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced and put it back on your car as soon as you can.

Check the inflation pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

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Follow these precautions whenever you are using the compact spare tire:

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any circumstances.

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road sur- faces than the regular tire. Use greater caution while driving on this tire.

Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare.

The wheel of the compact spare tire is designed especially to fit your car. Do not use your spare tire on another car unless it is the same make and model.

OnallV6models Turn off the Traction Control System (see page ). Driving with the compact spare tire may activate the TCS.

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TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

The compact spare tire has a shorter tread life than a regular tire. Replace it when you can see the tread wear indicator bars. The replacement should be the same size and design tire, mounted on the same wheel. The compact spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the compact wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

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If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder of a busy road is dangerous. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.

The car can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the car when it is supported only by the jack.

TRUNK FLOOR

Changing a Flat Tire

3.

Open the trunk. Raise the trunk floor by lifting up on the back edge.

4.

Take the tool kit out of the trunk.

5.

Unscrew the wing bolt and take the spare tire out of its well.

TOOL KIT

SPARE TIRE

JACK

1.

Park the car on firm, level, and non-slippery ground away from traffic. Put the transmission in Park (automatic) or Reverse (manual). Apply the parking brake. If you are towing a trailer, unhitch the trailer.

2.

Turn on the hazard warning lights, and turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Have all the passengers get out of the car while you change the tire.

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Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL NUT

6.

The jack is behind a cover in the right fender. Remove the cover by turning the handle counterclock- wise, then pulling on the cover.

JACK

WHEEL WRENCH

7.

Turn the jack’s end bracket counterclockwise to loosen it, then remove the jack.

8.

Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2
turn with the wheel wrench.

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Changing a Flat Tire

JACKING POINT Locate the jacking point nearest 9. the tire you need to change. Place the jack under the jacking point. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

WHEEL WRENCH

EXTENSION

10.

Use the extension and wheel wrench as shown to raise the car until the flat tire is off the ground.

11.

Remove the wheel nuts, then remove the flat tire. Temporarily place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface of the wheel facing up. You could scratch the wheel if you put it face down.

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Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL COVER

WHEEL NUTS

HUB

OnLXandLX-V6models Do not attempt to forcibly pry the wheel cover off with a screwdriver or other tool. The wheel cover cannot be removed without first removing the wheel nuts.

12.

Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth. Wipe the hub carefully, it may be hot from driving.

13.

Put on the spare tire. Put the wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten them fully.

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Changing a Flat Tire

14.

Lower the car to the ground and remove the jack.

15.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

16.

EXandEX-V6models Remove the center cap before storing the flat tire in the trunk well.

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20.

Store the jack in its holder. Turn the jack’s end bracket to lock it in place. Replace the cover. Store the tools.

21.

Store the wheel cover or center cap in the trunk. Make sure it does not get scratched or damaged.

22.

Lower the trunk floor, then close the trunk lid.

Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and could seriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack, and tools securely before driving.

Changing a Flat Tire

WING BOLT

For spare tire

For normal tire

SPACER CONE

17.

Place the flat tire face down in the spare tire well.

18.

Remove the spacer cone from the wing bolt, turn it over, and put it back on the bolt.

19.

Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole.

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If Your Engine Won’t Start

Diagnosing why your engine won’t start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you turn the key to START (III):

You hear nothing, or almost nothing. The engine’s starter motor does not operate at all, or operates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motor operating normally, or the starter motor sounds like it is spinning faster than normal, but the engine does not start up and run.

Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly When you turn the ignition switch to START (III), you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound or series of clicks, or nothing at all. Check these things:

Check the transmission interlock. If you have a manual transmission, the clutch pedal must be pushed all the way to the floor or the starter will not operate. With an automatic transmission, it must be in Park or Neutral.