2012 Honda Accord Coupe Owners Manual

Honda Motor Oil is the preferred 0W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. It is highly recommended that you use Honda Motor Oil in your vehicle for optimum engine protection. Make sure the API Certification Seal says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines’’.

The oil viscosity or weight is provided on the container’s label. 0W-20 oil is formulated for year- round protection of your vehicle to improve cold weather starting and fuel economy.

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

Ambient Temperature

Adding Engine Oil

Synthetic Oil You may use a synthetic motor oil if it meets the same requirements given for a conventional motor oil: it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight. You must follow the oil and filter change intervals shown on the information display.

Engine Oil Additives Your vehicle does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect the engine or transmission performance and durability.

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Changing the Engine Oil and Filter

Always change the oil and filter according to the maintenance messages shown on the information display. The oil and filter collect contaminants that can damage your engine if they are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle should be raised on a service station- type hydraulic lift for this service. Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled technician.

1.

Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.

352

WASHER

WASHER

4-cylinder models

OIL DRAIN BOLT

2.

Open the hood, and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

V6 models

OIL DRAIN BOLT

3.

Remove the oil filter and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your dealer) is required.

Make sure the oil filter gasket is not stuck to the contacting surface of the engine. If it is, remove it before installing a new oil filter.

2012 Accord Coupe

OIL FILTER

OIL FILTER

4-cylinder models

V6 models

4.

Install a new oil filter according to the instructions that come with it. Make sure to clean off any dirt and dust on the contacting surface of a new oil filter.

5.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten the drain bolt to: 29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)

6.

Refill the engine with the recom- mended oil.

Engine oil change capacity (including filter):

4-cylindermodels 4.2 US qt (4.0 )

V6models 4.5 US qt (4.3 )

Changing the Engine Oil and Filter

7.

8.

9.

Reinstall the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator should go out within 5
seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine, and check your work.

Let the engine run for several minutes, then check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks.

Turn off the engine, let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil.

Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmf ul to the environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.

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Engine Coolant

Adding Engine Coolant

4-cylinder models

RESERVE TANK

If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

V6 models

RESERVE TANK

Always use Honda Long-life Anti- freeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent distilled water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

354

If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Make sure it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. Continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

4-cylindermodelsonly

If you regularly drive your vehicle under severe conditions in very low 35°C), a temperature (under higher concentration of coolant should be used. Consult your Honda dealer f or more inf ormation on the proper coolant.

31°F,

−

−

2012 Accord Coupe

If the reserve tank is completely empty, you should also check the coolant level in the radiator.

RADIATOR CAP

Engine Coolant

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

1.

Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.

2.

Relieve any pressure in the cooling system by turning the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pressing down.

3.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing it down and turning it counterclockwise.

4-cylinder models

V6 models

RADIATOR CAP

4.

The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low.

Pour the coolant slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

5.

Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten it fully.

6.

Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.

Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your vehicle’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine components.

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Windshield Washers

LEVEL GAUGE

LEVEL GAUGE

4-cylinder models

V6 models

Do not use engine antif reeze or a vinegar/water solution in the windshield washer reservoir. Antif reeze can damage your vehicle’s paint, while a vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump. Use only commercially-available windshield washer f luid.

Check the level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal use.

Check the fluid level by removing the cap and looking at the level gauge.

OnCanadianmodels: level indicator comes on when the level is low (see page

The low washer

60

).

Fill the reservoir with a good-quality windshield washer fluid. This increases the cleaning capability and prevents freezing in cold weather.

When you refill the reservoir, clean the edges of the windshield wiper blades with windshield washer fluid on a clean cloth. This will help to condition the blade edges.

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Automatic Transmission

DIPSTICK

DIPSTICK

Transmission Fluid

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

V6 models

4-cylinder models

2.

Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission, and wipe it with a clean cloth.

3.

Insert the dipstick all the way into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.

4-cylinder models

Check the fluid level with the engine at normal operating temperature.

1.

Park the vehicle on level ground. Start the engine, let it run until the radiator fan comes on, then shut off the engine. For accurate results, wait about 60 seconds (but no longer than 90 seconds) before doing step 2.

CONTINUED

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Transmission Fluid

5.

If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the dipstick hole to bring it to the level between the upper and lower marks.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

Always use Honda ATF DW-1
(automatic transmission fluid).

6.

Insert the dipstick all the way back into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

V6 models

4.

Remove the dipstick and check the fluid level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

358

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the Maintenance Minder page

(see

341

).

TM

If you are not sure how to add fluid, contact your dealer.

Use only Honda ATF DW-1 (automatic transmission f luid). Do not mix with other transmission f luids. Using transmission f luid other than Honda ATF DW-1 may cause deterioration in transmission operation and durability, and could result in damage to the transmission. Damage resulting f rom the use of transmission f luid other than Honda ATF DW-1 is not covered by the Honda new vehicle warranty.

2012 Accord Coupe

Manual Transmission

FILLER BOLT

4-cylindermodels Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the vehicle sitting on level ground.

To check the transmission fluid level, remove the under cover holding clips with a flat-tip screwdriver, then remove the under cover carefully.

Correct level

Remove the transmission filler bolt, and carefully feel inside the bolt hole with your finger.

The fluid level should be up to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is not, add Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt, and tighten it securely.

Transmission Fluid

Reinstall the under cover and put the holding clips back in place. Make sure the under cover is installed under the edge of the front bumper.

If Honda MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20
viscosity motor oil with the API Certification Seal that says ‘‘FOR GASOLINE ENGINES’’ as a temporary replacement. However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives, and continued use can cause stiffer shifting. Replace as soon as it is convenient.

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the Maintenance Minder page

(see

341

).

TM

If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer.

CONTINUED

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2012 Accord Coupe

Transmission Fluid

V6models Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the vehicle sitting on level ground.

FILLER BOLT

DRAIN BOLT

CHECK BOLT

WASHER

Remove the check bolt and look for transmission fluid coming out of the bolt hole. If a small amount of fluid drips out of the bolt hole, reinstall the check bolt.

If no fluid comes out, remove the filler bolt and washer. Slowly add Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the check bolt hole.

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2012 Accord Coupe

Pour the fluid into the filler hole slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

Let the fluid run out until it stops, then reinstall the check bolt and the filler bolt. Make sure to put a new washer on each bolt when reinstalling it.

Reinstall the under cover and put the holding clips back in place. Make sure the under cover is installed under the edge of the front bumper.

Transmission Fluid

If Honda MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20
viscosity motor oil with the API Certification Seal that says ‘‘FOR GASOLINE ENGINES’’ as a temporary replacement. However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives, and continued use can cause stiffer shifting. Replace as soon as it is convenient.

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the Maintenance Minder page

(see

341

).

TM

If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer.

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2012 Accord Coupe

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Check the fluid level in the reservoirs monthly. There are up to two reservoirs, depending on the model. They are:

Brake fluid reservoir (all models) Clutch fluid reservoir (manual transmission only)

Independent of the Maintenance Minder information, replace the brake fluid every 3 years.

362

Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement.

Using any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your vehicle’s braking system and can cause extensive damage.

Brake Fluid

MAX

MIN

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If the level is at or below the MIN mark, your brake system needs attention. Have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

2012 Accord Coupe

Brake and Clutch Fluid, Power Steering Fluid

Clutch Fluid Manualtransmissiononly

MAX

A low fluid level can indicate a leak in the clutch system. Have this system inspected as soon as possible.

Power Steering Fluid

UPPER LEVEL

MIN

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If it is not, add brake fluid to bring it up to that level. Use the same fluid specified for the brake system.

4-cylinder models

LOWER LEVEL

Check the level on the side of the reservoir when the engine is cold. The fluid should be between the UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL. If not, add power steering fluid to the UPPER LEVEL.

CONTINUED

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Power Steering Fluid, Timing Belt

UPPER LEVEL

V6 models

LOWER LEVEL

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

Always use Honda Power Steering Fluid. You may use another power steering fluid as an emergency replacement, but have the power steering system flushed and refilled with Honda PSF as soon as possible.

A low power steering fluid level can indicate a leak in the system. Check the fluid level frequently, and have the system inspected as soon as possible.

Turning the steering wheel to f ull lef t or right lock and holding it there can damage the power steering pump.

364

Timing Belt V6models The timing belt should be replaced according to the Maintenance Minder

(see page

341

).

TM

Replace the timing belt every 60,000
miles (100,000 km) if you regularly drive your vehicle in any of the following conditions:

In very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°C). In very low temperatures (under 29°C). If you frequently tow a trailer.

20°F,

−

−

2012 Accord Coupe

Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk or pull a trailer, readjustment may be required. Adjustments should be done by your dealer or another qualified technician.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb Your vehicle has halogen headlight bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its base, 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.

Lights

HighBeamHeadlight

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

1.

Open the hood.

STAY

To change a bulb on the passenger’s side, remove the engine coolant reserve tank by pulling it out of its stay.

CONTINUED

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2012 Accord Coupe

Lights

FASTENER

AIR INTAKE COVER

BULB

V6 models

STAY

V6 models

DUCT

TAB

OnV6models To change a bulb on the driver’s side, undo the fastener and remove the air intake cover by pushing the tab. Then remove the duct.

2.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab to unlock it, then slide the connector off the bulb.

3.

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

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2012 Accord Coupe

4.

Install the new bulb, and turn it one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place.

5.

Push the electrical connector onto the bulb.

6.

Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

7.

Driver’ssideonV6models Reinstall the air intake cover and duct securely. Reinstall the fastener and secure it by pushing on the head until it locks.

Passenger’sside Reinstall the engine coolant reserve tank.

LowBeamHeadlight

HOLDING CLIPS

Lights

BULB

1.

To change the passenger’s side bulb, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, and turn off the engine. To change the driver’s side bulb, turn the steering wheel to the right.

2.

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

TAB

3.

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

4.

5.

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

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab to unlock it, then slide the connector off the bulb.

CONTINUED

367

2012 Accord Coupe

Lights

6.

Install the new bulb, and turn it one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place.

7.

Push the electrical connector onto the bulb.

8.

Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

9.

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

368

Replacing a Front Turn Signal/ Parking Light Bulb

V6 model is shown.

STAY

1.

Open the hood.

To change the turn signal bulb on the passenger’s side, remove the engine coolant reserve tank by pulling it out of its stay.

BULB

2.

3.

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

To remove the burned out bulb, push it in and turn it counterclockwise until it unlocks.

Driver’ssideonV6models Remove the air intake duct (see page

366

).

2012 Accord Coupe

4.

Install the new bulb and turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

Replacing a Front Side Marker Light Bulb

BULB

Lights

5.

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

6.

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

7.

Passenger’sside Reinstall the coolant reserve tank.

Driver’ssideonV6models Reinstall the air intake cover and duct securely. Reinstall the fastener and secure it by pushing on the head until it locks.

HOLDING CLIPS

1.

To change the bulb on the driver’s side, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right, then turn off the engine. To change the bulb on the passenger’s side, turn the steering wheel to the left.

2.

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

3.

4.

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

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

CONTINUED

369

2012 Accord Coupe

Lights

5.

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

6.

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

7.

Reinstall the inner fender cover. Then reinstall the holding clips, and lock them in place by pushing on their centers.

370

Replacing Rear Bulbs

BULB

SOCKET

SCREW

1.

Open the trunk.

Remove the screws in the center of each of the two fasteners on the side of the trunk lining. Pull the lining back.

2.

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

3.

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

4.

5.

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

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

2012 Accord Coupe

6.

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

Replacing the High-mount Brake Light Bulb

7.

Push the trunk lid trim back into position.

8.

Put the fasteners into the holes on the side of the trunk lining. Reinstall the screws.

BULB

SOCKET

Lights

3.

Reinstall the socket. Turn it clockwise until it locks. Make sure the new bulb is working.

1.

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

2.

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

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2012 Accord Coupe

Lights

Replacing a Fog Light Bulb Ifequipped Your vehicle uses halogen light 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.

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

The fog lights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk or pull a trailer, readjustment may be required. Adjustment should be done by your dealer or another qualified technician.

372

HOLDING CLIPS

ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR

TAB

1.

Passenger’sside Remove the three holding clips with a flat-tip screwdriver.

Pull down the under cover from the bumper carefully.

2.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab to unlock it, then slide the connector off the bulb.

3.

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

2012 Accord Coupe

HOLDING CLIPS

4.

Driver’sside To change the bulb, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right, then turn off the engine.

5.

Use a flat-tip screwdriver to remove the two holding clips from the inner fender, and pull the inner fender cover back.

ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR

TAB

6.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.

7.

Remove the bulb from the fog light assembly by turning it one- quarter turn counterclockwise.

Lights

8.

9.

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

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

10.

Turn on the fog lights to test the new bulb.

11. Passenger’sside

Reinstall the under cover and put the holding clips back in place.

Driver’sside Reinstall the inner fender. Make sure it is installed under the edge of the front bumper.

Reinstall the holding clips, and push in the head of each clip.

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Lights, Cleaning the Seat Belts

Rear License Plate Light Bulbs The license plate has two lights above it. The bulbs should be replaced by your dealer.

Cleaning the Seat Belts

OPENING

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

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

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Floor Mats

FRONT (Driver’s side)

REAR (Right passenger’s side)

The driver’s and right rear passenger’s floor mats that came with your vehicle hook over the floor mat anchors. This keeps the floor mats from sliding forward and possibly interfering with the pedals (driver’s floor mat) or with the seat weight sensors (right rear floor mat).

If you remove a floor mat, make sure to re-anchor it when you put it back in your vehicle.

If you use a non-Honda floor mat, make sure it fits properly and that it can be used with the floor mat anchors. Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mat.

Floor Mats, Dust and Pollen Filter

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

Have your dealer replace this filter when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the information display. 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, or if the airflow from the heating and cooling system/climate control system becomes less than usual.

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2012 Accord Coupe

Wiper Blades

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

WIPER ARMS

LOCK TAB

376

To replace a wiper blade:

1.

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

2.

Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper arm:

Put a cloth on the edge of the lock tab to prevent scratches, then push up on the lock tab carefully with a flat-tip screwdriver.

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

2012 Accord Coupe

WIPER ARM

BLADE

Wiper Blades

4.

Examine the new wiper blades. If they have no plastic or metal reinforcement 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.

REINFORCEMENT

TOP

Pivot the blade assembly toward the wiper arm until it releases from the wiper arm.

When replacing a wiper blade, make sure not to drop the wiper blade or wiper arm down on the windshield.

3.

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

BLADE

Make sure the two rubber tabs inside the blade fit to each notch of the reinforcement, as shown.

CONTINUED

377

2012 Accord Coupe6.

Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Push down the lock tab. Make sure the wiper blade assembly locks in place.

7.

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

Wiper Blades

TOP

5.

Place the top of the wiper blade on the end of the blade assembly, and slide the blade onto the assembly until the tabs are fitted onto the wiper blade.

Make sure the blade is completely installed.

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2012 Accord Coupe

To safely operate your vehicle, 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 to take care of your tires and what to do when they 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.

Inflation Guidelines 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 vehicle ride harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warns you when a tire pressure is low. See page more information.

326

for

Tires

Even though your vehicle is equipped with TPMS, 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 in each tire at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose 1 to 2 psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. Remember to check the spare tire at the same time.

Check the air pressures when the tires are cold. This means the vehicle has been parked for at least 3
hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6
km). Add or release air, if needed, to match the recommended cold tire pressures on the next page.

CONTINUED

379

2012 Accord Coupe

Tires

If you check air pressures when the tires are hot (driven for 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 readings. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the recommended cold air 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.

While tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

380

Recommended Tire Pressures

NormalDriving The following charts show the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions.

V6models

Tire Size

P235/45R18 94V

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front/Rear:

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

4-cylindermodels

Tire Size

P225/50R17 93V

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front/Rear:

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

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

For convenience, the recommended tire sizes and cold tire pressures are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

For additional information about your tires, see page

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2012 Accord Coupe

HighSpeedDriving We strongly recommend that you do not drive faster than the posted speed limits and conditions allow. If you ever drive in a sanctioned competitive event at sustained high speeds (over 118 mph or 190 km/h), be sure to adjust the cold tire pressures as shown below. If you do not, excessive heat can build up and cause sudden tire failure.

Tire Size

P235/45R18 94V P225/50R17 93V

Cold Tire Pressure 35 psi (240 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm )

Tire 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.

Tires

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR

Your tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down, you will see a 1/2
inch (12.7 mm) wide band across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire.

A tire this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see three or more tread wear indicators.

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2012 Accord Coupe

Tires

Tire Service Life The service life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including, but not limited to, driving habits, road conditions, vehicle loading, inflation pressure, maintenance history, speed, and environmental conditions (even when the tires are not in use).

In addition to your regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance, it is recommended that you have annual inspections performed once the tires reach five years old. It is also recommended that all tires, including the spare, be removed from service after 10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of wear.

382

The last four digits of the TIN (tire identification number) are found on the sidewall of the tire and indicate Tire the date of manufacture (See Labeling

on page

426

).

Tire 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.

Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

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Improper wheel weights can damage your vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Use only Honda wheel weights f or balancing.

Tire Rotation Front

Front

When the tires are rotated, make sure the air pressures are checked.

Tires

(For Directional Tires and Wheels)

(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels) To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires according to the maintenance messages displayed on the information display. Move the tires to the positions shown in the illustration each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to- back.

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Tires

Replacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall).

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

Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS and vehicle stability assist system (VSA) to work inconsistently.

The ABS and VSA system work by comparing the speed of each wheel. When replacing tires, use the same size originally supplied with the vehicle. Tire size and construction can affect wheel speed and may cause the system to activate.

If you ever replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheels.

Also be sure you use only TPMS specific wheels. If you do not, the tire pressure monitoring system will not work on that tire.

Replacement wheels are available at your dealer.

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Installing improper tires on your vehicle 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.

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Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels 4-cylinder models:

17 x 7 1/2J

V6 models: 18 x 8J

Tires 4-cylinder models:

P225/50R17 93V

V6 models:

P235/45R18 94V

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for DOT tire quality

See page grading information, and page for tire size information. 426

Tires

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

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

4-cylinder models: Cable-type:

SCC Radial Chain SC1036

V6 models: Cable-type: SCC Radial Chain

SC1040

Winter Driving Tires marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions.

＋

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 vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as the original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may be lower than your original tires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.

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Tires

When installing chains, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and mount them as tight as you can. Make sure they are not contacting the brake lines or suspension. Drive slowly with them installed. If you hear them coming into contact with the body or chassis, stop and investigate. Remove them 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.