1996 Honda Accord Sedan Owners Manual

when the window gets to the position you want.

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

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

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Power Windows, Moonroof

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

Moonroof

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

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

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

MOONROOF SWITCH On EX, EX V-6 models in the U.S., and EX-R, EX-R V-6 models in Canada Use the switch on the dashboard to open and close the moonroof. The ignition must be ON (II). Push and hold the switch to open the moonroof. Release the switch when the moonroof reaches the desired position. To close the moonroof, press and hold the

switch.

Instruments and Controls

Moonroof, Mirrors

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

NOTICE

Mirrors

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

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

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

TAB

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

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

Instruments and Controls

Mirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

SELECTOR SWITCH

2. Move the selector switch to L

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

On U.S. LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6
models, and Canadian EX, EX V-6, EX-R and EX-R V-6 models Adjust the outside mirrors with the adjustment switch on the driver's door armrest:

Instruments and Controls

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

3. Push the appropriate edge of the

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

4. When you finish, move the

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

Parking Brake

NOTICE

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

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up slightly, push the button, and lower the lever. The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released (see page 36). If you try to drive the car without releasing the parking brake, the ABS cannot work properly.

Instruments and Controls

Digital Clock

RESET

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

To set the clock:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) to

display the time.

2. Swing down the front cover of the

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

Instruments and Controls

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

4. Press and hold the M button until

the numbers advance to the desired time.

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

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

Beverage Holder, Vanity Mirror

Beverage Holder

Vanity Mirror

Push

To open the beverage holder, push on the top. It is spring-loaded and will swing open. To close it, push it down until it latches. Use the beverage holder only when the car is parked. If you place cups in the holder while driving, the liquid may spill when you go over bumps or around corners. The inner liner can be removed if you want to hold a larger cup.

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

Some models have lighted vanity mirrors.

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

Instruments and Controls

Cigarette Lighter, Ashtrays

Cigarette Lighter

Ashtrays

CIGARETTE LIGHTER

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

Instruments and Controls

ASHTRAY

ASHTRAY

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

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

NOTICE

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

Ceiling Light

Spot Light

Courtesy Lights

IGNITION SWITCH LIGHT

Interior Lights

OFF

ON

Push

Push

DOOR ACTIVATED

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

On LX, EX, LX V-6 and EX V-6
models in the U.S., and EX, EX-R, EX V-6 and EX-R V-6 models in Canada Turn on the spotlight by pushing the button next to each light. Push the button again to turn it off. You can use the spotlights at all times.

DOOR LIGHT

On LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6 models in the U.S., and EX, EX V-6, EX-R and EX-R V-6 models in Canada Each door has a courtesy light. This light comes on when yon open any door. Your car also has a courtesy light in the ignition switch. This light comes on when you open the driver's door. It remains on for several seconds after the door is closed.

Instruments and Controls

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

* Air conditioning is optional on U.S. DX and Canadian LX models. The Anniversary Edition in the U.S. comes equipped with air conditioning.

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

* Audio sound system is optional on the U.S. DX model. The audio system is standard on the Anniversary Edition

Heating and Cooling........................ 74
What Each Control Does............ 74
How to Use the System............... 76
To Turn Everything Off............. 80
Audio System (Canadian LX)......... 81
Operating the Radio.................... 82
Adjusting the Sound.................... 84
Operating the Cassette Player... 85
Tape Search Functions............... 86

Audio System (Except U.S. DX and

Canadian LX)........................... 87
Operating the Radio.................... 87
Auto Select................................... 89
Adjusting the Sound.................... 90
Radio Frequencies....................... 91
Radio Reception........................... 91
Operating the Cassette Player... 93
Caring for the Cassette Player... 95
Operating the Optional CD ........ 96
Protecting Compact Discs.......... 98
CD Error Indications................... 99
Theft Protection........................ 100

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

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

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

What Each Control Does

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

FRESH AIR/RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTONS

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

side, air is

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

side, air from the vehicle's

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

Air flows from the center

and corner vents in the dashboard.

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

Air flows from the floor

vents.

Air flow is divided between

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

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

Heating and Cooling

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

Vent Controls

CENTER VENT

SIDE VENT

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

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

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

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

mode when

mode when the condition

clears.

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

Heating and Cooling

FRESH AIR/RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTONS

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

1. Turn the temperature control dial

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

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

and

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

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

button. The light above the button should come on.

2. Make sure the temperature

control dial is all the way to the left.

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

and

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

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

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

and

Comfort and Convenience Features

FRESH AIR/RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTONS

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

Air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge (see page 40) when driving in stop-and-go traffic or climbing a long, steep hill. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the A/C until the gauge reads normally.

To Heat To warm the interior:

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

and

the temperature control lever.

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

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

and

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

Heating and Cooling

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

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

and

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

5. Turn on the rear window defogger

to help clear the rear window.

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

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

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

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

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

Heating and Cooling

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

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

and

controls to maximum.

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

Once the to

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

SW-VOL/BAL KNOB

TUNE/SEEK BAR

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

The cassette player features auto- reverse for continuous play.

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

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

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

SW-VOL/BAL KNOB

TUNE/SEEK BAR

STEREO INDICATOR

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

) to tune to a higher frequency,

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

) to tune to a

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

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

Audio System

To store a frequency:

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

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK bar to

tune the radio to the desired station.

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

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total

of six stations on AM and twelve on FM.

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

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

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

BALANCE CONTROL

FADER CONTROL

TONE CONTROL

Radio Frequencies and Reception For information, See page 91.

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

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

Audio System

EJECT BUTTON

FAST FORWARD BUTTON

REWIND BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

CASSETTE SLOT

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

FAST FORWARD BUTTON

REWIND BUTTON

Audio System

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

Caring for Cassettes Damaged cassettes can jam inside the drive or cause other problems. See page 95 for information on cassette care and protection.

Comfort and Convenience Features

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio System For Anniversary Edition, LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6 in the U.S. and EX, EX V-6, EX-R and EX-R V-6 in Canada Your Honda's audio system provides clear reception on both AM and FM bands, while the preset buttons allow you to easily select your favorite stations. The cassette system features Dolby B* noise reduction, automatic sensing of chromium-dioxide (CrO2) tape, and autoreverse for continuous play. For EX and EX V-6 in the U.S. and EX-R and EX-R V-6 in Canada The Anti-theft feature disables the system if it is disconnected from the car's battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number.

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

are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories

Licensing Corporation.

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in AC- CESSORY (I) or ON (II). Turn the system on and adjust the volume by turning the ON/OFF/VOL knob. The band and frequency that the radio was last tuned to is displayed. To change bands, press the AM/FM button. On the FM band, ST will be displayed if the station is broadcast- ing in stereo. Stereo reproduction on AM is not available. You can use any of three methods to find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset buttons.

TUNE — Use the TUNE/SEEK switch to tune the radio to a desired frequency. Push the switch up to tune to a higher frequency, and push the switch down to tune to a lower frequency. The frequency numbers

Audio System

will start to change rapidly. Release the switch when the display reaches the desired frequency. To change the frequency in small increments, push and release the TUNE/SEEK switch quickly.

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

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

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

To store a frequency:

1. Select the desired band, AM or

FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each Preset button.

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function

to tune the radio to a desired station.

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

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

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

(U.S.: Anniversary Edition, LX, LX V-6
Canada: EX, EX V-6)

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

CASSETTE SLOT

TUNE/SEEK FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

(U.S.: EX, EX V-6, Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6)

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

CASSETTE SLOT

TUNE/SEEK FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

For EX and EX V-6 models in the U.S. and EX-R, EX-R V-6 models in Canada AUTO SELECT - If you are traveling far from home and can no longer receive the stations you preset, you can use the Auto Select feature to find stations in the local area. To activate Auto Select, press the A. SELECT button. A. SELECT will appear in the display, and the system will go into scan mode for several seconds. It automatically scans both bands, looking for stations with strong signals. It stores the frequen- cies of six AM stations and twelve FM stations in the preset buttons. You can then use the preset buttons to select those stations. If you are in a remote area, Auto Select may not find six strong AM stations or twelve strong FM stations. If this happens, you will see a "0" displayed when you press any preset button that does not have a station stored.

Audio System

(U.S.: EX, EX V-6, Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6)

AUTO SELECT LIGHT

With Auto Select on, you cannot manually store any frequencies in the preset buttons. If you do not like the stations found by Auto Select, you can use the TUNE and SEEK functions to find other stations.

AUTO SELECT BUTTON

Auto Select does not erase the frequencies that you preset previously. When you return home, turn off Auto Select by pressing the A. SELECT button. The preset buttons will then select the frequencies you originally set.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

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

To use these controls, push on the knob to get them to pop out. Adjust the Fader to your liking by turning the outside ring. Adjust the Balance by turning the knob. Push the controls back in when you are done.

Treble/Bass — Use these controls to adjust the tone to your liking. Push on the controls to get them to pop out. Adjust the Bass by turning the outer ring. Adjust the Treble by turning the knob. Push the controls back in when you are finished so you cannot change the settings by accidentally bumping them.

Comfort and Convenience Features

FADER CONTROL

BALANCE CONTROL

BASS CONTROL

TREBLE CONTROL

You can use the Balance control knob to turn off the illumination of the audio system. Push the Balance/ Fader controls so they pop out, then pull the Balance control knob out slightly farther.

Check the Balance control knob if the audio system does not illuminate with the instrument panel lights.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Audio System

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

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

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

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

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

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

button.

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

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

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

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

Audio System

reverses direction, and begins to play.

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

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

(U.S.: Anniversary Edition, LX, LX V-6
Canada: EX, EX V-6)

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

EJECT BUTTON

PROG BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

(U.S.: EX, EX V-6, Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6)

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

EJECT BUTTON

PROG BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

Caring for the Cassette Player The cassette drive picks up dirt and oxides whenever you play a tape. This builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the cassette drive after every 30 hours of use.

If you do not clean the cassette drive regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the deposits with a normal cleaning kit.

The cassette player automatically ejects cassettes that do not play normally. If it ejects a cassette before it begins to play, it is probably defective and should not be inserted again. You may have a cassette suddenly stop playing, reverse directions once or twice and then eject. This is normally an indication the tape is wound unevenly. It should play normally after being manually rewound.

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

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

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

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

Audio System

CLEAN INDICATOR

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Operating the Optional CD Changer Optional for U.S. Anniversary Edition, LX, LX V-6, EX and EX V-6 models and Canadian EX, EX V-6, EX-R and EX-R V-6 models A Compact Disc changer is available through your dealer. It holds up to six discs, providing several hours of continuous entertainment. You operate the CD changer with the same controls used for the radio and cassette player.

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

(U.S.: Anniversary Edition, LX, LX V-6
Canada: EX, EX V-6)

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

RPT INDICATOR

(U.S.: EX, EX V-6
Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6)

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

A. SELECT INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

CD BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON RPT INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

CD BUTTON

A. SELECT/ REPEAT BUTTON

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

Press the CD button until "CD" appears in the display. The system will start to play the first track of the first disc in the magazine. When that disc ends, the next disc in the magazine is loaded and played. After the last disc finishes, the system returns to disc 1.

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

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

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

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

(U.S.: EX, EX V-6, Canada: EX-R, EX-R V-6) RANDOM PLAY — This feature, when activated, plays the tracks on a CD in random order, rather than in the order they are recorded on the CD. To activate Random Play, press the A. SELECT/REPEAT button until you see A. SEEECT in the display. The system will then select and play tracks randomly on the current disc. When all tracks on that disc have been played, the next disc is loaded and played randomly. This continues until you deactivate Random Play by pressing A. SELECT/REPEAT again.

Audio System

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

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

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

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

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

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

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

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

Audio System

Theft Protection On U.S. EX, EX V-6 and Canadian EX-R, EX-R V-6 models Your car's audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, the user must enter a specific five-digit code in the Preset buttons. Because there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

Before Driving

Break-in Period.............................. 102
Gasoline.......................................... 102
Oxygenated Fuels...................... 102
Driving in Foreign Countries... 103
Service Station Procedures .......... 104
Filling the Fuel Tank................. 104
Opening the Hood..................... 105
Fuel Economy................................ 109
Vehicle Condition...................... 109
Driving Habits............................ 109
Accessories..................................... 110
Loading Cargo................................ 111

Before Driving

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

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

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

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

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

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

Break-in Period, Gasoline

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

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

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

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

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

Before Driving

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

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

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

The following are the EPA-approved percentages of oxygenates:

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

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

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

Gasoline

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

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Filling the Fuel Tank

Pull

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

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

2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling

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

Before Driving

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

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

3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.

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

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

5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on,

tighten it until it clicks more than twice.

6. Push the fuel fill door until it

latches.

FUEL FILL CAP

Opening the Hood

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

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

LATCH

2. Standing in front of the car, put

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

Service Station Procedures

SUPPORT ROD

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

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

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Oil Check

6 cylinder models 3. Lift the hood up most of the way. The hydraulic supports will lift it up the rest of the way and hold it up.

To close the hood, lower it and press down firmly with your hands.

DIPSTICK

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

1. Remove the dipstick (orange

handle).

6 cylinder models

DIPSTICK

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean

cloth or paper towel.

4 cylinder models 3. Insert it all the way back in its tube.

6 cylinder models

CONTINUED

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Engine Coolant Check

MAX

RESERVE TANK

MAX

RESERVE TANK

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

4 cylinder models

MIN

6 cylinder models

MIN

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

If it is near or below the lower mark, see Adding Oil on page 146.

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding Engine Coolant on page 152 for information on adding the proper coolant.

Refer to Periodic Checks on page 142 for information on checking other items in your Honda.

Before Driving

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

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

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

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

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

An important part of that mainte- nance is the Periodic Checks (see page 142). For example, an under- inflated tire causes more "rolling resistance," which uses fuel. It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly. In winter, the build-up of snow on your car's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

Fuel Economy

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

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

Before Driving

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

Accessories

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

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

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

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

Before Driving

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

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Figure the total "occupant weight" you will be transporting. To do this, multiply the number of people (driver and all passengers) by 70
kg (150 Ibs). Subtract this number from the Vehicle Capacity Weight (395 k g/ 850 Ibs). If you are towing a trailer, subtract the tongue weight. See Towing a Trailer on page 127.

This final number is the total weight of cargo you can load in or on the car. With five occupants (driver and four passengers), the maximum recom- mended weight for cargo is 45 kg (100 Ibs).

Loading Cargo

Where you store this cargo, and how well you secure it, are just as important as how much it weighs. Make sure you load cargo so it will not shift while driving. When storing items in the trunk, place them as far forward as possible. You could store additional items on the floor behind the front seats. Make sure they cannot roll under the front seat and interfere with the pedals.

If you must carry large objects that prevent you from closing the trunk lid, be aware that exhaust gas can enter the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 29.

Never place items on the shelf behind the back seat. Those items can fly forward and injure you or your passengers if you brake hard or are involved in a collision.

Before Driving

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the manual and automatic transmissions. It also includes important infor- mation on your car's braking system and facts you need if you are plan- ning to tow a trailer.

Driving

Preparing to Drive......................... 114
Starting the Engine........................ 115

Starting in Cold Weather

at High Altitude ..................... 116
5-speed Manual Transmission..... 117
Recommended Shift Points...... 117
Maximum Speeds...................... 118
Automatic Transmission............... 118
Shift Lever Positions................. 119
Maximum Speeds...................... 122
Shift Lock Release..................... 122
The Braking System...................... 123
Brake Wear Indicators.............. 123
Brake System Design................ 123
Anti-lock Brakes........................ 124
Driving in Bad Weather................ 125
Towing a Trailer............................ 127

Driving

10.Turn the ignition ON (II). Check the indicator lights in the instru- ment panel.

11. Start the engine (seepage 115).

12.Check the gauges and indicator

lights in the instrument panel (see page 35).

5. Check the adjustment of the seat

(see page 56).

6. Check the adjustment of the

inside and outside mirrors (see page 65).

7. Check the adjustment of the steering wheel (see page 46).

8. Make sure the doors are securely

closed and locked.

9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that

your passengers have fastened their seat belts (see page 7).

Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checks and adjustments every day before you drive your car.

1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.

2. Check that the hood and trunk are

fully closed.

3. Visually check the tires. If a tire

looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure.

4. Check that any items you may be

carrying with you inside are stored properly or fastened down securely.

Driving

1. Apply the parking brake.

2. In cold weather, turn off all

electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

3. Manual Transmission:

Push the clutch pedal down all the way. START (III) does not function unless the clutch pedal is depressed.

Automatic Transmission: Make sure the shift lever is in Park. Press on the brake pedal.

4. Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. If the engine does not start right away, do not hold the key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds at a time. Pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again.

5. If the engine does not start within