2001 Honda Accord Sedan Owners Manual

driver's doorjamb, and is stamped on the engine compartment bulkhead. The VIN is also provided in bar code on the Certification label.

Technical Information

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

CERTIFICATION LABEL

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Engine Number is stamped into the engine block. It is on the front.

The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission.

4-cylinder Models

6-cylinder Models

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER

ENGINE NUMBER

Identification Numbers

MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER

ENGINE NUMBER

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications

* : 6-cylinder models

* : 6-cylinder models

Technical Information

*1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the

engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.16 US gal (0.6 , 0.13 Imp gal)

*2 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine. *3 : 6-cylinder models

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications

pages 257

259

*1 DX *2 LX, EX *3 6-cylinder models

page 321

page 320

CONTINUED

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications

*1 : DX *2 : LX, EX *3: 4-cylinder models *4 : 6-cylinder models

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstDOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Treadwear The treadwear grade is a compara- tive rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one- half (11/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual condi- tions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

Traction The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

The tires on your car meet all U.S. Federal Safety Requirements. All tires are also graded for treadwear, traction, and temperature perform- ance according to Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. The following explains these gradings.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between the tread shoulder and the maximum section width. For example:

Treadwear 200
Traction AA Temperature A

All passenger car tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to these grades.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstDOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not over- loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla- tion, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

Temperature The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

The following are the U.S. EPA and Canadian CGSB approved percentages of oxygenates: ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 10 percent ethanol by volume. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name "Gasohol."

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.

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

METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel that contains methanol. Methanol can corrode metal parts in the fuel system, and also damage plastic and rubber components. This damage would not be covered by your warranties.

Oxygenated Fuels

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.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

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

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe burning of gasoline in your car's engine produces several byproducts. Some of these are carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline evaporating from the tank also produces hydrocarbons. Controlling the production of NOx, CO, and HC is important to the environment. Under certain conditions of sunlight and climate, NOx and HC react to form photochemical "smog." Carbon monoxide does not contribute to smog creation, but it is a poisonous gas.

The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Act* sets standards for automobile emissions. It also requires that automobile manufacturers explain to owners how their emissions controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emissions controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 224.

* In Canada, Honda vehicles comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) for Emissions valid at the time they are manufactured.

Crankcase Emissions Control System Your car has a Positive Crankcase Ventilation System. This keeps gasses that build up in the engine's crankcase from going into the atmosphere. The Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve routes them from

Emissions Controls

the crankcase back to the intake manifold. They are then drawn into the engine and burned.

Evaporative Emissions Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emissions control canister filled with charcoal adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this canister while the engine is off. After the engine is started and warmed up, the vapor is drawn into the engine and burned during driving.

Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery The Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) system captures the fuel vapors during refueling. The vapors are adsorbed in a canister filled with activated carbon. While driving, the fuel vapors are drawn into the engine and burned off.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstEmissions Controls

Exhaust Emissions Controls The exhaust emissions controls include three systems: PGM-FI, Ignition Timing Control and Three Way Catalytic Converter. These three systems work together to control the engine's combustion and minimize the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust emissions control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emissions control systems.

Technical Information

Replacement Parts The emissions control systems are designed and certified to work to- gether in reducing emissions to levels that comply with the Clean Air Act. To make sure the emissions remain low, you should use only new Genuine Honda replacement parts or their equivalent for repairs. Using lower quality parts may increase the emissions from your car.

The emissions control systems are covered by warranties separate from the rest of your car. Read your warranty manual for more informa- tion.

PGM-FI System The PGM-FI System uses sequential multiport fuel injection. It has three subsystems: Air Intake, Engine Control, and Fuel Control. The Engine Control Module (ECM) or the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) uses various sensors to determine how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all operat- ing conditions.

Ignition Timing Control System This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing, reducing the amount of HC, CO and NOx produced.

Three Way Catalytic Converter The three way catalytic converter is in the exhaust system. Through chemical reactions, it converts HC, CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO2), dinitrogen (N2), and water vapor.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe three way catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gasses without affecting the metals. The catalytic converter is referred to as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Honda part or its equivalent.

The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take place. It can set on fire any com- bustible materials that come near it. Park your car away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flammables.

Three Way Catalytic Converter

Keep the engine tuned-up.

Have your car diagnosed and repaired if it is misfiring, back- firing, stalling, or otherwise not running properly.

THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER

A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engine's per- formance. Follow these guidelines to protect your car's three way catalytic converter.

Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstState Emissions Testing

Testing of Readiness Codes If you take your vehicle for a state emissions test shortly after the battery has been disconnected or gone dead, it may not pass the test. This is because of certain "readiness codes" that must be set in the on- board diagnostics for the emissions systems. These codes are erased when the battery is disconnected, and set again only after several days of driving under a variety of conditions.

Technical Information

Without touching the accelerator pedal, start the engine and let it idle for 20 seconds.

Keep the vehicle in Park (automatic transmission) or Neutral (manual transmission). Increase the engine speed to 2,000
rpm and hold it there until the temperature gauge rises to at least 1/4 of the scale (approximately 3
minutes).

If the testing facility determines that the readiness codes are not set, you will be requested to return at a later date to complete the test. If you must get the vehicle re-tested within the next two or three days, you can condition the vehicle for re-testing by doing the following.

Make sure the gas tank is nearly, but not completely, full (around 3/4).

Make sure the vehicle has been parked with the engine off for 8
hours or more.

Make sure the ambient temperature is between 20° and 95° F.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSelect a nearby lightly traveled major highway where you can maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph (80 to 90 km/h) for at least 20
minutes. Drive on the highway in D4 (A/T) or 5th (M/T). Do not use the cruise control. When traffic allows, drive for 90 seconds without moving the accelerator pedal. (Vehicle speed may vary slightly; this is okay.) If you cannot do this for a continuous 90
seconds because of traffic conditions, drive for at least 30
seconds, then repeat it two more times (for a total of 90 seconds).

Then drive in city/suburban traffic for at least 10 minutes. When traffic conditions allow, let the vehicle coast for several seconds without using the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal.

If the testing facility determines the readiness codes are still not set, see your Honda dealer.

State Emissions Testing

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty and Customer Relations

Customer Relations

Information................................. 340
U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 341
Canada Zone Office Map.............. 342
Warranty Coverages..................... 343
Reporting Safety Defects

(U.S. Vehicles)........................... 344
Authorized Manuals...................... 345

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenustCustomer Relations Information

Honda dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer all your questions. If you encounter a problem that your dealership does not solve to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealership's management. The Service Manager or General Manager can help. Almost all problems are solved in this way.

If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's management, contact your Honda Customer Relations Zone Office. Refer to the U.S. and Canadian Zone Office maps on the following pages.

When you call or write, please give us this information:

Vehicle Identification Number (see page 324) Name and address of the dealer who services your car Date of purchase Mileage on your car Your name, address, and tele- phone number A detailed description of the problem Name of the dealer who sold the car to you

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWestern Zone P.O. Box 2260

700 Van Ness Avenue Torrance, California 90501- 1490
(310) 781-4565

Northwestern Zone P.O. Box 20186

12439 N.E. Airport Way Portland, Oregon 97230
(503) 256-0943
(also includes Alaska and Hawaii)

South Centra! Zone 4529 Royal Lane

Irving, Texas 75063
(972) 929-5481

Centra! Zone 101 South Stanfield Road

Troy, Ohio 45373
(937) 332-6250

Northeastern Zone 115 Gaither Drive

Mt. Laurel, New Jersey 08054
(856) 235-5533
Includes: NYC Metro area and Fairfield County, CT area

U.S. Zone Office Map

Mid-Atlantic Zone 902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200

Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878
(301) 990-2020

Southeastern Zone P.O. Box 1606

1500 Morrison Parkway Alpharetta, Georgia 30009-1606
(770) 442-2045

North Central Zone 601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9

Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004
(847) 870-5600

New England Zone 555 Old County Road

Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096
(860) 623-3310
See Zone 5 for: NYC Metro area and Fairfield County, CT area

West Central Zone 1600 South Abilene Street, Suite D

Aurora, Colorado 80012
(303) 696-3935

Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I. Bella International

P.O. Box 190816
San Juan, PR 00919-0816
(787)250-4318

Warranty and Customer Relations

The addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot reach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCanada Zone Office Map

Warranty and Customer Relations

CUSTOMER RELATIONS RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTELE

Honda Canada Inc. 715 Milner Avenue Toronto, ON M1B 2K8

Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9

Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909
Toronto (416) 287- 4776

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty Coverages

U.S. Owners Your new Honda is covered by these warranties:

New Car Limited Warranty — covers your new vehicle, except for the battery, emissions control systems and accessories, against defects in materials and workmanship.

Emissions Control Systems Defects Warranty and Emissions Performance Warranty — these two warranties cover your vehicle's emis- sions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are conditional. Please read the warranty manual for exact information.

Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty — this warranty gives up to 100 percent credit toward a replacement battery.

Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered for the useful life of the vehicle.

Replacement Battery Limited Warranty — provides prorated coverage for a replacement battery purchased from a Honda dealer.

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty — all exterior body panels are covered for rust-through from the inside for the specified time period with no mileage limit.

Accessory Limited Warranty — Genuine Honda Accessories are covered under this warranty. Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors. Please read your warranty manual for details.

Replacement Parts Limited Warranty — covers all Genuine Honda replacement parts against defects in materials and workman- ship.

Replacement Muffler Lifetime Limited Warranty — provides coverage for as long as the pur- chaser of the muffler owns the car.

Restrictions and exclusions apply to all these warranties. Please read the 2001 Honda Warranty Information booklet that came with your car for precise information on warranty coverages. Your Honda's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty infor- mation is in a separate booklet.

Canadian Owners Please refer to the 2000 Warranty Manual that came with your car.

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

If NHTSA receives similar com- plaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safely from the Hotline.

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPurchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only) The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be obtained from Helm Incorporated, either by filling out the attached form or, for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone number on the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below, contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit, Michigan 48207, or call 1-800-782-4356.

Authorized Manuals

Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should contact their authorized Honda dealer.

By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.

61S8008

61S8009

61S8008EL

61S8030

31S84630

HON-R

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAuthorized Manuals

Service Manual: This manual covers maintenance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components. It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simple enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under- stand.

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual: This manual complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your vehicle.

Body Repair Manual: This manual describes the procedures involved in the replacement of damaged body parts.

These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14
days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

P.O. BOX 07280 DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207 1-800-782-4356

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAccessories and Modifications.... 186
Accessories................................. 186
Additional Safety Precaution.... 187
Modifications............................. 187

ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

Position)........................................ 74
Accessory Power Socket.............. 106
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 234
Airbag (SRS) ...................................... 9
Air Cleaner Element...................... 253
Air Conditioning............................. 110
Maintenance............................... 265
Usage.......................................... 110
Air Conditioning Filter.................. 266
Air Pressure, Tires........................ 268
Alcohol in Gasoline........................ 331
Antifreeze....................................... 239
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Description................................. 204
Indicator............................... 55, 205
Operation.................................... 204
Anti-theft Steering Column Lock.. 73
Appearance Care........................... 287
Audio System................ 125, 137, 153

Automatic Speed Control................ 68
Automatic Transmission............... 196
Capacity, Fluid........................... 326
Checking Fluid Level....... 247, 249
Shifting........................................ 196
Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 197
Shift Lever Positions................. 197
Shift Lock Release..................... 200

Battery

Charging System Light...... 54, 310
Jump Starting............................. 304
Maintenance............................... 260
Specifications............................. 329
Before Driving............................... 177
Belts, Seat........................................... 8
Beverage Holder............................ 104
Body Repair.................................... 296
Brakes

Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 204
Break-in, New Linings .............. 178
Bulb Replacement..................... 281
Fluid............................................ 251
Parking........................................ 101

Index

System Indicator.......................... 55
Wear Indicators......................... 203
Braking System.............................. 203
Break-in, New Car......................... 178
Brightness Control, Instruments... 63
Brights, Headlights......................... 62
Bulb Replacement

Back-up Lights........................... 281
Brake Lights............................... 281
Ceiling Light............................... 282
Courtesy Light........................... 283
Front Parking Lights................. 278
Front Side Marker Lights......... 277
Headlights.................................. 276
High-mount Brake Light.......... 281
License Plate Lights.................. 281
Specifications............................. 327
Spotlight...................................... 283
Trunk Light................................ 284
Turn Signal Lights..................... 277
Bulbs, Halogen............................... 276

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Capacities Chart............................. 326
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 49
Carrying Cargo.............................. 188
Cassette Player

Care.............................................151
Operation........................... 130, 148
CAUTION, Explanation of............... ii CD Changer.......................... 133, 165
CD Player........................................ 142
Certification Label......................... 324
Chains............................................. 273
Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 297
Changing Engine Coolant............. 241
Changing Oil

How to......................................... 235
When to....................................... 224
Charging System Indicator .... 54, 310
Checklist, Before Driving............. 192
Childproof Door Locks................... 79
Child Seats........................................ 27
Tether Anchorage Points........... 38
Cleaner, Air.................................... 253
Cleaning

Aluminum Wheels..................... 289

Carpeting.................................... 290
Exterior....................................... 288
Fabric.......................................... 291
Interior........................................ 290
Seat Belts.................................... 292
Vinyl............................................ 291
Window....................................... 292
Climate Control System................ 117
Clock, Setting the .......................... 102
Clutch Fluid.................................... 252
CO in the Exhaust......................... 333
Coin Box......................................... 103
Cold Weather, Starting in............. 194
Compact Spare............................... 296
Console Compartment.................. 103
Consumer Information*................ 340
Controls, Instruments and.............. 51
Coolant

Adding......................................... 239
Checking..................................... 184
Proper Solution.......................... 239
Temperature Gauge.................... 59
Corrosion Protection..................... 293
Crankcase Emissions Control

System......................................... 333
Cruise Control Operation............... 68

Customer Relations Office........... 340

DANGER, Explanation of................. ii Dashboard........................................ 52
Daytime Running Lights................. 63
Defects, Reporting Safety............. 344
Defogger, Rear Window................. 64
Dimensions..................................... 328
Dimming the Headlights................ 62
Dipstick

Automatic Transmission . 247, 248
Engine Oil................................... 182
Directional Signals........................... 64
Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 203
Disposal of Used Oil...................... 238
Doors

Locking and Unlocking............... 74
Power Door Locks....................... 75
DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 329
Downshifting, 5-speed Manual

Transmission.............................. 195
Drive Belts...................................... 266
Driver and Passenger Safety............ 5

Main MenustIndex

Driving............................................ 191
Economy..................................... 185
In Bad Weather.......................... 209
In Foreign Countries................. 332

Economy, Fuel............................... 185
Emergencies on the Road............. 295
Battery, Jump Starting.............. 304
Brake System Indicator............ 313
Changing a Flat Tire................. 297
Charging System Indicator...... 310
Checking the Fuses................... 316
Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 309
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 311
Manually Closing Moonroof.... 314
Overheated Engine................... 307
Emergency Brake.......................... 101
Emergency Flashers....................... 66
Emergency Towing....................... 320
Emissions Controls........................ 333
Engine

Belts.............................................266
Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 59

Malfunction Indicator

Lamp................................. 55, 311
Oil Pressure Indicator......... 54, 309
Oil, What Kind to Use............... 234
Overheating................................ 307
Specifications............................. 327
Speed Limiter..................... 196, 200
Starting........................................ 193
Engine Speed Limiter........... 196, 200
Ethanol in Gasoline ....................... 331
Evaporative Emissions Controls.. 333
Exhaust Fumes................................ 49
Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

Belts by......................................... 17
Exterior, Cleaning the................... 290

Fabric, Cleaning............................. 291
Fan, Interior.................................... 110
Features, Comfort and

Convenience............................... 109
Filling the Fuel Tank..................... 178
Filter

Air Conditioning........................ 266
Oil................................................ 234

5-speed Manual Transmission

Checking Fluid Level................ 249

5-speed Manual Transmission

Shifting the................................. 195
Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 66
Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 297
Fluids

Automatic Transmission .. 247, 248
Brake...........................................251
Clutch.......................................... 252
Manual Transmission............... 249
Power Steering........................... 252
Windshield Washer................... 246

FM Stereo Radio

Reception.................................... 158
Folding Rear Seat............................ 92
Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 332
Four-way Flashers........................... 66
Fuel.................................................. 178
Fill Door and Cap....................... 178
Gauge............................................ 58
Octane Requirement................. 178
Oxygenated................................ 331
Tank, Filling the......................... 178
Fuses, Checking the...................... 316
CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Gas Mileage, Improving................ 185
Gasohol........................................... 331
Gasoline.......................................... 178
Gauge............................................ 58
Octane Requirement................. 178
Tank, Filling the......................... 178
Gas Station Procedures................. 178
Gauges

Engine Coolant Temperature .... 59
Fuel................................................59
Speedometer................................ 58
Tachometer.................................. 58

Gearshift Lever Positions

Automatic Transmission........... 197
5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 195
Glass Cleaning............................... 292
Glove Box......................................... 82

Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 278
Hazard Warning Flashers............... 66

Headlights......................................... 62
Aiming......................................... 276
Automatic Lighting Off............... 63
Daytime Running Lights............. 63
Lights On Indicator..................... 53
Low Beams, Turning on............. 62
Reminder Chime.......................... 62
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 278
Turning on.................................... 62
Head Restraints............................... 92
Heating and Cooling...................... 110
High Altitude, Starting at.............. 194
HomeLink Universal

Transmitter.................................. 83
Hood, Opening the ........................ 180
Hydraulic Clutch............................ 252
Hydroplaning.................................. 210

Identification Number, Vehicle.... 326
Ignition

Keys............................................... 71
Switch............................................ 73
Timing Control System............. 336
Immobilizer System......................... 72

Important Safety Precautions.......... 6
Indicators, Instrument Panel.......... 53
Infant Restraint................................ 28
Infant Seats....................................... 28
Tether Anchorage Points........... 39
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 268
Inside Mirror.................................... 98
Inspection, Tire.............................. 270
Instrument Panel............................. 53
Instrument Panel Brightness......... 63
Interior Cleaning............................ 290
Interior Lights................................ 106
Introduction......................................... i

Jacking up the Car......................... 209
Jack, Tire........................................ 298
Jump Starting................................. 304

Keys................................................... 71

Main MenustIndex

Label, Certification........................ 324
Lane Change, Signaling.................. 64
Lap/Shoulder Belts......................... 40
Lights

Bulb Replacement..................... 278
Indicator........................................ 53
Parking.......................................... 62
Turn Signal................................... 64
LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 73
Locks

Anti-theft Steering Column........ 73
Fuel Fill Door............................. 178
Glove Box..................................... 82
Power Door.................................. 75
Trunk............................................ 80
Low Coolant Level......................... 184
Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 195
Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 52, 309
Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 326
Luggage.......................................... 188

Maintenance................................... 219
Owner Maintenance Checks.... 231
Record......................................... 229
Required Indicator....................... 60
Safety...........................................220
Schedule............................ 224 - 228
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.. 55, 311
Manual Transmission.................... 195
Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 249
Meters, Gauges................................ 57
Methanol in Gasoline.................... 331
Mirrors, Adjusting......................... 100
Moonroof.......................................... 88
Closing Manually....................... 314
Operation...................................... 98

Octane Requirement, Gasoline.... 178
Odometer.......................................... 58
Odometer, Trip................................ 59
Oil

Change, How to ......................... 235
Change, When to....................... 224
Checking Engine....................... 182
Pressure Indicator............... 54, 309
Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart....................................... 235
ON (Ignition Key Position) ............ 74
Operation in Foreign Countries... 332
Outside Mirrors............................... 99
Overheating, Engine..................... 306
Owner Maintenance Checks........ 231
Oxygenated Fuel........................... 331

Neutral Gear Position.................... 198
New Vehicle Break-in................... 178
Normal Shift Speeds...................... 196
NOTICE, Explanation of................... ii Numbers, Identification................ 324

Panel Brightness Control............... 63
Park Gear Position......................... 198
Parking............................................ 202

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Parking Brake................................ 101
Parking Lights.................................. 63
Parking Over Things that Burn... 335
PGM-FI System.............................. 334
Polishing and Waxing................... 289
Pre-Drive Safety Checklist............. 11
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 17
Protecting Adults............................. 12
Additional Safety Precautions.... 18
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 17
Protecting Children......................... 19
Protecting Infants........................ 28
Protecting Larger Children........ 34
Protecting Small Children.......... 31
Using Child Seats with

Tethers......................................37

Radiator Overheating.................... 309
Radio/Cassette Sound System.... 125
Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 281
Rear Seat Armrest........................... 94
Rear Seat, Folding........................... 93
Rear View Mirror............................. 99
Rear Window Defogger.................. 66

Reclining the Seat Backs......... 88, 91
Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 196
Reminder Lights.............................. 53
Remote Transmitter........................ 75
Replacement Information

Air Cleaner Element.................. 253
Coolant........................................ 241
Engine Oil and Filter................. 235
Fuses...........................................318
Light Bulbs................................. 278
Schedule..................................... 224
Spark Plugs ....................... 256, 258
Tires............................................ 271
Wiper Blades.............................. 263

Replacing Seat Belts After a

Crash.............................................42
Reserve Tank, Coolant.................. 184
Restraint, Child................................ 19
Reverse Gear Position................... 198
Rotation, Tire................................. 271

Safety Belts......................................... 8
Safety Defects, Reporting* .......... 344

Safety Features.................................. 7
Airbags............................................ 9
Door Locks................................... 10
Head Restraints........................... 10
Seat Belts........................................ 8
Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10
Safety Labels, Location of.............. 50
Safety Messages................................ ii Seat Belts............................................ 8
Additional Information................ 40
Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners................................ 41
Cleaning...................................... 292
Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 40
Maintenance................................. 42
Reminder Light and

Beeper................................. 40, 54
System Components.................... 40
Use During Pregnancy................ 17
Seats, Adjusting the......................... 88
Security System............................. 175
Serial Number................................ 324
Service Intervals............................ 224
Service Manual*............................ 345
Service Station Procedures .......... 178

Main MenustSetting the Clock........................... 101

How Your SRS Indicator

The 5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 195
Shift Lever Position Indicator...... 197
Shift Lock Release......................... 200
Side Airbags..................................... 45
How Your Side Airbags Work.... 45
How The Side Airbag Indicator

Light Works............................. 46

Side Marker Lights, Bulb

Replacement............................... 279
Signaling Turns................................ 64
Snow Tires...................................... 273
Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 288
Sound System........................ 125, 153
Spare Tire

Inflating....................................... 297
Specifications............................. 330
Spark Plugs, Replacing........ 256, 258
Specifications Charts..................... 328
Speed Control................................... 68
Speed Limiter........................ 196, 200
Speedometer.................................... 58
SRS, Additional Information........... 43
Additional Safety Precautions.... 23
How Your Airbags Work..... 43, 45

Works........................................43
SRS Components......................... 43
SRS Service................................... 48
SRS Indicator............................. 43, 55
START (Ignition Key Position) ..... 74
Starting the Engine........................ 193

In Cold Weather at High

Altitude................................... 194
With a Dead Battery................. 306
Steam Coming from Engine......... 308
Steering Wheel

Adjustment................................... 67
Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 73
Stereo Sound System........... 125, 153
Storing Your Car............................. 287
Sun Visor......................................... 105
Sunglasses Holder......................... 106
Supplemental Restraint System

Servicing....................................... 48
SRS Indicator......................... 43, 55
System Components.................... 43
Synthetic Oil................................... 235

Index

Tachometer...................................... 58
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 281
Taking Care of the Unexpected .. 295
Tape Player ........................... 130, 160
Technical Descriptions

DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 329
Emissions Control Systems...... 332
Oxygenated Fuels...................... 331
Three Way Catalytic

Converter................................ 335
Temperature Gauge........................ 59
Tether Attachment Points.............. 37
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 335
Time, Setting the........................... 101
Timing Belt..................................... 267
Tire Chains..................................... 273
Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 297

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Tires................................................ 267
Air Pressure............................... 268
Checking Wear.......................... 270
Compact Spare........................... 298
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 331
Inflation....................................... 268
Inspection................................... 270
Replacing.................................... 271
Rotating....................................... 271
Snow............................................273
Specifications............................. 328
Tools, Tire Changing.................... 297
Towing

ATrailer......................................211
Emergency Wrecker................. 320

Traction Control System (TCS)

Indicator............................... 56, 207
Operation................................... 207

Transmission

Checking Fluid Level,

Automatic...................... 247, 248

Checking Fluid Level,

Manual.................................... 248
Fluid Selection .................. 247, 248
Identification Number............... 319
Shifting the Automatic.............. 196

Shifting the Manual................... 195
Treadwear...................................... 329
Trip Meter........................................ 59
Trunk................................................. 80
Opening the.................................. 80
Open Monitor Light.................... 56
Turn Signals..................................... 64

Underside, Cleaning...................... 293
Unexpected, Taking Care

of the........................................... 295
Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 329
Unleaded Gasoline......................... 178
Upholstery Cleaning...................... 292
Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 238

Vanity Mirror................................. 105
Vehicle Capacity Load .................. 189
Vehicle Dimensions....................... 326
Vehicle Identification Number..... 324
Vehicle Storage.............................. 287
VIN.................................................. 324

Vinyl Cleaning................................ 293
Viscosity, Oil................................... 235

WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii Warning Labels, Location of.......... 50
Warranty Coverages*................... 341
Washer, Windshield

Checking the Fluid Level......... 246
Operation...................................... 65
Washing.......................................... 290
Waxing and Polishing................... 289
Wheels

Adjusting the Steering................ 66
Alignment and Balance............. 270
Compact Spare........................... 296
Wrench....................................... 298

Windows

Cleaning......................................292
Operating the Power................... 97
Rear, Defogger............................ 66

Windshield

Cleaning........................................ 64
Washers........................................ 66

Main MenustWipers, Windshield

Changing Blades........................ 263
Operation...................................... 64
Worn Tires..................................... 270
Wrecker, Emergency Towing....... 320

*: U.S. and Canada only

Index

Main MenustService Information Summary

Gasoline: Unleaded gasoline, pump octane number of 86 or higher.

Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.12 US gal (64.8 l, 14.26 Imp gal)

Recommended Engine Oil: API Premium grade 5W-20
detergent oil (see page 235 ).

Oil change capacity (including filter):

4-cylinder models

4.5 US qt (4.3 l, 3.8 imp qt)

6-cylinder models

4.6 US qt (4.4 l, 3.9 Imp qt)

Automatic Transmission Fluid: Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) preferred, or a DEXRON ® III ATF as a temporary replacement (see pages 247 and 248).

Tire Pressure (measured cold): DX

29 psi (200 kPa , 2.0 kgf/cm2)

LX, EX, LX V-6, EX V-6

30 psi (210 kPa , 2.1 kgf/cm2)

5-speed Manual Transmission Fluid: Honda Manual Transmission Fluid preferred, or an API service SG, SH or SJ, SAE 10W-30 or 10W- 40 motor oil as a temporary replacement (see page 249).

Capacity:

2.0 US qt (1.9 l,1.7 Imp qt)

Power Steering Fluid: Honda Power Steering Fluid preferred, or another brand of power steering fluid as a temporary replacement. Do not use ATF (see page 252).

Brake Fluid: Honda DOT 3 Brake Fluid preferred, or a DOT 3 or DOT 4
brake fluid as a temporary replacement (see page 251).

Main Menust2001 Accord Sedan Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.

Contents

Owner's Identification Form Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety.................................................................................................................ii Your Vehicle at a Glance.....................................................................................................................2 Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................5 Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls.................................................................................................................51
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features ..............................................................................................109
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving..................................................................................................................................177
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving ..............................................................................................................................................191
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................219
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care..............................................................................................................................287
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected......................................................................................................295
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information.....................................................................................................................323
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................339
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................345
How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...................................................................................................................................................... I Service Information Summary A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump. Accord Value Package Audio System

Introduction

NOTICE

As you read this manual, you will find information that is preceded by information is intended to help you avoid damage to your Honda, other property, or the environment.

symbol. This

Congratulations! Your selection of a 2001 Honda Accord was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.

One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is to read this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls and convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner's manual in your car so you can refer to it at any time.

Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty booklet thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights and responsibilities.

Maintaining your car according to the schedules given in this manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. When your car needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's staff is specially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns.

California Proposition 65 Warning WARNING: Thi s product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Main MenustA Few Words About Safety

Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And operating this car safely is an important responsibility.

To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.

Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining your car. You must use your own good judgement.

You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms, including:

Safety Labels — on the car. Safety Messages — preceded by a safety alert symbol

three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION. These signal words mean:

and one of

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions.

Safety Headings — such as Important Safety Reminders or Important

Safety Precautions.

Safety Section — such as Driver and Passenger Safety. Instructions — how to use this car correctly and safely.

This entire book is filled with important safety information — please read it carefully.

Main MenustYour Car at a Glance

DOOR LOCK SWITCH (P.75)

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.97)

MIRROR CONTROLS (P.100)

DIGITAL CLOCK (P.102)

HEATING/COOLING CONTROL (P.110)

AUDIO SYSTEM (P.125)

TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE/ FUEL FILL DOOR (P.80, 178)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P. 180)

Main MenustINSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS (P. 63)

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS (P. 64, 65, 66)

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER (P. 66)

Your Car at a Glance

MOONROOF SWITCH (P. 98)

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM (P. 206)

CRUISE CONTROL (P. 68)

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS (P. 66)

TILT ADJUSTMENT (P. 67)

HORN (P. 61)

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS (P. 62, 64)

REMOTE AUDIO CONTROLS (P. 70) (EX with leather and EX-V6 models)

CRUISE CONTROLS (P. 68)

Main MenustDriver and Passenger Safety

This section gives you important information about how to protect yourself and your passengers. It shows you how to use seat belts properly. It explains your Supple- mental Restraint System. And it tells you how to properly restrain infants and children in your car.

Important Safety Precautions.......... 6
Your Car's Safety Features.............. 7
Seat Belts........................................ 8
Airbags............................................ 9
Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10
Head Restraints........................... 10
Door Locks................................... 10
Pre-Drive Safety Checklist......... 11
Protecting Adults............................. 12
1. Close and Lock the Doors...... 12

2. Adjust the Front Seats............ 12
3. Adjust the Seat-Backs............. 13
4. Adjust the Head Restraints.... 14
5. Fasten and Position the Seat

Belts...................................... 14
6. Adjust the Steering Wheel..... 16
7. Maintain a Proper Sitting

Position................................. 16
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 17
Additional Safety Precautions.... 18
Protecting Children......................... 19

All Children Must Be

Protecting Small Children.......... 31
Protecting Larger Children........ 34
Using Child Seats with

Tethers...................................... 37
Using the Lower Anchorages.... 38

Additional Information About Your

Seat Belts.................................. 40
Seat Belt System Components... 40
Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 40
Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners................................ 41
Seat Belt Maintenance................ 42

Restrained................................ 19

Additional Information About

Children Should Sit in the Back

Seat............................................ 20

The Passenger's Front Airbag

Poses Serious Risks to

Children................................ 20

If You Must Drive with Several

Children.................................... 22

If a Child Requires Close

Attention................................... 23
Additional Safety Precautions.... 23
General Guidelines for Using

Child Seats................................ 24
Protecting Infants........................ 28

Your Airbags............................ 43
SRS Components......................... 43
How Your Front Airbags

Work.......................................... 43
How Your Side Airbags Work.... 45
How the SRS Indicator Light

Works........................................ 45

How The Side Airbag Indicator

Light Works............................. 46
Airbag Service.............................. 48
Additional Safety Precautions.... 48
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 49
Safety Labels.................................... 50

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenustBe Aware of Airbag Hazards While airbags can save lives, they can cause serious or fatal injuries to occupants who sit too close to them, or are not properly restrained. Infants, young children, and short adults are at the greatest risk. Be sure to follow all instructions and warnings in this manual. (See page

7.)

Don't Drink and Drive Alcohol and driving don't mix. Even one drink can reduce your ability to respond to changing conditions, and your reaction time gets worse with every additional drink. So don't drink and drive, and don't let your friends drink and drive, either.

Control Your Speed Excessive speed is a major factor in crash injuries and deaths. Generally, the higher the speed the greater the risk, but serious accidents can also occur at lower speeds. Never drive faster than is safe for current conditions, regardless of the maximum speed posted.

Keep Your Car in Safe Condition Having a tire blowout or a mechanical failure can be extremely hazardous. To reduce the possibility of such problems, check your tire pressures and condition frequently, and perform all regularly scheduled maintenance. (See page 224.)

Important Safety Precautions

You'll find many safety recommendations throughout this section, and throughout this manual. The recommendations on this page are the ones we consider to be the most important.

Always Wear Your Seat Belt A seat belt is your best protection in all types of collisions. Airbags supplement seat belts, but airbags are designed to inflate only in a moderate to severe frontal collision. So even though your car is equipped with airbags, make sure you and your passengers always wear your seat belts, and wear them properly. (See page 14.)

Restrain All Children Children are safest when they are properly restrained in the back seat, not the front seat. A child who is too small for a seat belt must be properly restrained in a child safety seat. (See page 19.)

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour Car's Safety Features

Your car is equipped with many features that work together to protect you and your passengers during a crash.

Some safety features do not require any action on your part. These include a strong steel framework that forms a safety cage around the passenger compartment; front and rear crush zones that are designed to crumple and absorb energy during a crash; and a collapsible steering column.

These safety features are designed to reduce the severity of injuries in a crash. However, you and your passengers can't take full advantage of these safety features unless you remain sitting in a proper position and always wear your seat belts properly. In fact, some safety features can contribute to injuries if they are not used properly.

Driver and Passenger Safety

(1) Safety Cage (2) Crush Zones (3) Seats & Seat-Backs (4) Head Restraints (5) Collapsible Steering Column (6) Seat Belts (7) Front Airbags (8) Side Airbags* (9) Door Locks * : If equipped

Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour Car's Safety Features

Seat Belts For your safety, and the safety of your passengers, your car is equipped with seat belts in all seating positions.

Your seat belt system also includes a light on the

instrument panel to remind you and your passengers to fasten your seat belts.

Why Wear Seat Belts Seat belts are the single most effective safety device for adults and larger children. (Infants and smaller children must be properly restrained in child seats.)

Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even though your car has airbags.

Driver and Passenger Safety

In addition, most states and all Canadian provinces require you to wear seat belts.

Help keep you from being thrown against the inside of the vehicle and against other occupants.

Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even if you have airbags.

Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

When properly worn, seat belts:

Keep you connected to the vehicle so you can take advantage of the car's built-in safety features.

Help protect you in almost every type of crash, including frontal, side, and rear impacts and rollovers.

Keep you from being thrown out of the vehicle.

Help keep you in a good position should the airbags ever deploy. A good position reduces the risk of injury from an inflating airbag, and allows you to get the best advantage from the airbag.

Of course, seat belts cannot completely protect you in every crash. But in most cases, seat belts can reduce your risk of serious injury.

What you should do: Always wear your seat belt, and make sure you wear it properly.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAirbags

Your car has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with front airbags to help protect the heads and chests of the driver and a front seat passenger during a moderate to severe frontal collision.

All V6 models and 4-cylinder EX model are standard and DX, LX models are optional Your car also has side airbags to help protect the upper torso of the driver or a front seat passenger during a moderate to severe side impact.

The most important things you need to know about your airbags are:

Your Car's Safety Features

Airbags do not replace seat belts. They are designed to supplement the seat belts.

Airbags offer no protection in rear impacts, rollovers, or minor frontal or side collisions.

Airbags can pose serious hazards. To do their job, airbags must inflate with tremendous force and speed. So while airbags help save lives, they can cause minor injuries, or more serious or even fatal injuries if occupants are not properly restrained or sitting properly.

What you should do: Always wear your seat belt properly, and sit upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel or dashboard.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWhat you should do: Move the front seats as far back as possible, and keep adjustable seat-backs in an upright position whenever the car is moving.

Head Restraints Head restraints can help protect you from whiplash and other injuries. For maximum protection, the back of your head should rest against the center of the head restraint.

Door Locks Keeping your doors locked reduces the chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash. It also helps prevent occupants from accidentally opening a door and falling out, and outsiders from unexpectedly opening your doors.

Your Car's Safety Features

Seats & Seat-Backs Your car's seats are designed to keep you in a comfortable, upright position so you can take full advantage of the protection offered by seat belts and the energy absorbing materials in the seats.

How you adjust your seats and seat- backs can also affect your safety. For example, sitting too close to the steering wheel or dashboard increases the risk of you or your passenger being injured by striking the inside of the car, or by an inflating airbag.

Reclining a seat-back too far reduces the seat belt's effectiveness and increases the chance that the seat's occupant will slide under the seat belt in a crash and be seriously injured.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPre-Drive Safety Checklist To make sure you and your passengers get the maximum protection from your car's safety features, check the following each time before you drive away:

All adults, and children who have outgrown child safety seats, are wearing their seat belts and wearing them properly (see page 14).

Any infant or small child is properly restrained in a child seat in the back seat (see page 19).

Front seat occupants are sitting upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel and dashboard (see page 12).

Seat-backs are upright (see page 13).

Head restraints are properly adjusted (see page 14).

All doors are closed and locked (see page 12).

All cargo is properly stored or secured (see page 188).

Your Car's Safety Features

The rest of this section gives more detailed information about how you can maximize your safety.

Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes, even when seat belts are properly worn and the airbags deploy.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Adults

Introduction The following pages provide instructions on how to properly protect the driver and other adult occupants.

These instructions also apply to children who have outgrown child seats and are large enough to wear lap/shoulder belts. (See page 34 for important additional guidelines on how to properly protect larger children.)

1. Close and Lock the Doors After everyone has entered the car, be sure the doors are closed and locked.

Driver and Passenger Safety

2.Adjust the Front Seats

Any driver who sits too close to the steering wheel is at risk of being seriously injured or killed by striking the steering wheel or from being struck by an inflating front airbag during a crash.

Your car has a door monitor light on the instrument panel to indicate when a specific door is not tightly closed.

For safety, locking the doors reduces the chance that a passenger, especially a child, will open a door while the car is moving and accidentally fall out. It also reduces the chance of someone being thrown out of the car during a crash.

For security, locked doors can prevent an outsider from unexpectedly opening a door when you come to a stop.

See page 74 for how to lock the doors.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo reduce the chance of injury, wear your seat belt properly, sit upright with your back against the seat, and move the seat as far back as possible from the steering wheel while still maintaining full control of the car. Also make sure your front seat passenger moves the seat as far to the rear as possible.

Sitting too close to a front airbag can result in serious injury or death if the front airbags inflate.

Always sit as far back from the front airbags as possible.

Most shorter drivers can get far enough away from the steering wheel and still reach the pedals. However, if you are concerned about sitting too close, we recommend that you investigate whether some type of adaptive equipment may help.

Once your seat is adjusted correctly, rock it back and forth to make sure the seat is locked in position.

See page 88 for how to adjust the front seats.

3.Adjust the Seat-Backs Adjust the driver's seat-back to a comfortable, upright position, leaving ample space between your chest and the airbag cover in the center of the steering wheel. If you sit too close to the steering wheel, you could be injured if the front airbag inflates.

Protecting Adults

A front passenger should also adjust the seat-back to an upright position, but as far from the dashboard as possible. A passenger who sits too close to the dashboard could be injured if the front airbag inflates.

CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Adults

Reclining a seat-back so that the shoulder part of the belt no longer rests against the occupant's chest reduces the protective capability of the belt. It also increases the chance of sliding under the belt in a crash and being seriously injured. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk of injury.

Reclining the seat-back too far can result in serious injury or death in a crash.

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

See page 88 for how to adjust seat- backs.

Driver and Passenger Safety

4.Adjust the Head Restraints

Before driving, make sure everyone with an adjustable head restraint has properly positioned the head restraint. The restraint should be positioned so the back of the occupant's head rests against the center of the restraint. A taller person should adjust the restraint as high as possible.

Improperly positioning head restraints reduces their effectiveness and you can be seriously injured in a crash.

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

Properly adjusted head restraints will help protect occupants from whiplash and other crash injuries.

See page 92 for how to adjust the head restraints.

5.Fasten and Position the Seat

Belts

Insert the latch plate into the buckle, then tug on the belt to make sure the belt is securely latched. Also check that the belt is not twisted, because a twisted belt can cause serious injuries in a crash.

Main MenuTable of Contentsstspreads the forces of a crash over the strongest bones in your upper body.

Improperly positioning the seat belts can cause serious injury or death in a crash.

Make sure all seat belts are properly positioned before driving.

If the seat belt touches or crosses your neck, or if it crosses your arm instead of your shoulder, you need to adjust the seat belt anchor height.

Protecting Adults

To adjust the height of a front seat belt anchor, squeeze the two release buttons and slide the anchor up or down as needed (it has four positions).

Never place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This could cause very serious injuries in a crash.

CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety

Position the lap part of the belt as low as possible across your hips, then pull up on the shoulder part of the belt so the lap part fits snugly. This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash and reduces the chance of internal injuries.

If necessary, pull up on the belt again to remove any slack from the shoulder part, then check that the belt rests across the center of your chest and over your shoulder. This

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Adults

If a seat belt does not seem to work as it should, it may not protect the occupant in a crash. No one should sit in a seat with an inoperative seat belt. Anyone using a seat belt that is not working properly can be seriously injured or killed. Have your Honda dealer check the belt as soon as possible.

See page 40 for additional information about your seat belt system and how to take care of your belts.

Driver and Passenger Safety

6.Adjust the Steering Wheel

7.Maintain a Proper Sitting

Position

After all occupants have adjusted their seats and put on seat belts, it is very important that they continue to sit upright, well back in their seats, with their feet on the floor, until the car is parked and the engine is off.

Adjust the steering wheel, if needed, so that the wheel points toward your chest, not toward your face.

Pointing the steering wheel toward your chest provides optimal protection from the airbag.

See page 67 for how to adjust the steering wheel.

Sitting improperly can increase the chance of injury during a crash. For example, if an occupant slouches, lies down, turns sideways, sits forward, leans forward or sideways, or puts one or both feet up, the chance of injury during a crash is greatly increased.