2007 Honda Accord Sedan Owners Manual

R to N

CONTINUED

173

Main MenuTable of Contentsst3

−

This position is similar

Drive (D ) to D, except only the first three gears are selected instead of all five. Use D when towing a trailer in hilly terrain, or to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D can also keep the transmission from cycling between third and fourth gears in stop-and-go driving.

Automatic Transmission

−

This position

Park (P) mechanically locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press on the brake pedal and have your foot off the accelerator pedal. Press the release button on the bottom of the shift lever to move it.

If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Shift Lock Release Park, see on page 176

You must also press the release button to shift into Park. To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch.

174

−

Press the brake

Reverse (R) pedal and press the release button to shift from Park to Reverse. To shift from Reverse to Neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift.

−

Use Neutral if you

Neutral (N) need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to the Park position if you need to leave your vehicle and apply the parking brake. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from Neutral to another gear.

−

Use this position for

Drive (D) your normal driving. The transmission automatically selects a suitable gear for the vehicle speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher speeds when the engine is cold. This helps the engine warm up faster.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst−

First (1) To shift from Second to First, press the release button on the bottom of the shift lever. This position locks the transmission in first gear. By upshifting and downshifting through 1, 2, D , and D, you can operate this transmission much like a manual transmission without a clutch pedal.

−

Second (2) This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop.

Use second gear:

For more power when climbing.

To increase engine braking when going down steep hills.

For starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow.

To help reduce wheel spin.

When driving downhill with a trailer.

Automatic Transmission

Engine Speed Limiter If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer’s red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the rpm below the red zone.

175

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCOVER

4.

Insert the key in the shift lock release slot.

3.

Put a cloth on the edge of the shift lock release slot cover next to the shift lever. Use a small flat-tipped screwdriver or finger nail file to remove the cover. Carefully pry off the edge of the cover.

Automatic Transmission

Shift Lock Release This allows you to move the shift lever out of Park if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal and pressing the release button does not work.

1.

Set the parking brake.

2.

Remove the key from the ignition switch.

176

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAutomatic Transmission

RELEASE BUTTON

If you need to use the shift lock release, it means your vehicle is developing a problem. Have the vehicle checked by your dealer.

5.

6.

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT Push down on the key while you press the release button on the shift lever and move the shift lever out of Park to neutral.

Remove the key from the shift lock release slot, then reinstall the cover. Make sure the notch on the cover is on the left side. Depress the brake pedal and restart the engine.

177

Main MenuTable of ContentsstParking

Always use the parking brake when you park your vehicle. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly, or your vehicle may roll if it is parked on an incline.

If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the vehicle from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission.

If your vehicle has a manual transmission, put it in first gear.

178

If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb and set the parking brake. If your vehicle has a manual transmission, put it in first gear.

If the vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb and set the parking brake. If your vehicle has a manual transmission, put it in reverse gear

Make sure the parking brake is fully released before driving away. Driving with the parking brake partially set can overheat or damage the rear brakes.

Parking Tips

Make sure the moonroof (if equipped) and the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc., in the trunk or take them with you.

Lock the doors with the key or the remote transmitter.

U.S.EX,EX-L,and6-cylindermodels CanadianSE,EX-L,and6-cylinder models Check the indicator on the instrument panel to verify that the security system is set.

Never park over dry leaves, tall grass, or other flammable materials. The hot three way catalytic converter could cause these materials to catch on fire.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCheck the brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Be extra cautious in your driving.

Your vehicle is equipped with disc brakes. The brakes on the rear wheels may be disc or drum, depending on the model. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The ABS helps you retain steering control when braking very hard.

Put your foot on the brake pedal only when you intend to brake. Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, builds up heat, increases wear and reduces their effectiveness. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you.

Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by taking your foot off the accelerator and downshifting to a lower gear.

Braking System

Braking System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.

Brake Pad Wear Indicators On all models, the front disc brakes have audible brake wear indicators. On all models except the U.S. VP, U.S. LX and Canadian DX-G, the rear disc brakes have audible brake wear indicators.

If the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive, metallic screeching sound when you apply the brake pedal. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will screech all the time. It is normal for the brakes to occasionally squeal or squeak when you apply them.

179

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAnti-lock Brakes (ABS)

The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps prevent the brakes from locking up, and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly, much faster than a person can do it.

The ABS also balances the front-to- rear braking distribution according to vehicle loading.

You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and you may hear some noise. This is normal: it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before the ABS activates. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

Youshouldneverpumpthebrakepedal; this defeats the purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal as you steer away from the hazard. This is sometimes referred to as ‘‘stomp and steer.’’

ABS Indicator

If this indicator comes on, the anti- lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system, but without anti-lock. You should have your dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible.

If the ABS indicator and the brake system indicator come on together, and the parking brake is fully released, the front-to-rear braking distribution system may also be shut down.

180

Main MenuTable of Contentsst255

. If the brakes feel normal,

Test your brakes as instructed on page drive slowly and have your vehicle repaired by your dealer as soon as possible. Avoid sudden hard braking which could cause the rear wheels to lock up and possibly lead to a loss of control.

ImportantSafetyReminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the vehicle. It only helps with the steering control during braking.

ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly, such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change. Always drive at a safe speed for the road and weather conditions.

ABS cannot prevent a loss of stability. Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road.

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

A vehicle with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a vehicle without anti- lock. Slow down, and allow a greater distance between vehicles under those conditions.

181

Main MenuTable of ContentsstVehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

If the indicator does not come on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position, there may be a problem with the VSA system. Have your dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible.

Without VSA, your vehicle will have normal braking and cornering ability, but it will not have VSA traction and stability enhancement.

VSA Activation Indicator

When VSA activates, you will see the VSA activation indicator blink. There may also be some unusual noise from the modulator.

VSA System Indicator

If the VSA system indicator comes on while driving, pull to the side of the road when it is safe, and turn off the engine. Reset the system by restarting the engine. If the VSA system indicator stays, or comes back on while driving, have the VSA system inspected by your dealer.

On6-cylindermodels The vehicle stability assist (VSA) system helps to stabilize the vehicle during cornering if the vehicle turns more or less than desired. It also assists you in maintaining traction while accelerating on loose or slippery road surfaces. It does this by regulating the engine’s output and by selectively applying the brakes.

When VSA activates, you may notice that the engine does not respond to the accelerator in the same way it does at other times. There may also be some unusual noise from the modulator.

The VSA system cannot enhance the vehicle’s driving stability in all situations and does not control your vehicle’s entire braking system. It is still your responsibility to drive and corner at reasonable speeds and to leave a sufficient margin of safety.

182

Main MenuTable of ContentsstVSA Off Switch In certain unusual conditions when your vehicle gets stuck in shallow mud or fresh snow, it may be easier to free it with the VSA temporarily switched off. When the VSA system is off, the traction control system is also off. You should only attempt to free your vehicle with the VSA off if you are not able to free it when the VSA is on.

Immediately after freeing your vehicle, be sure to switch the VSA on again. We do not recommend driving your vehicle with the VSA and traction control systems switched off.

VSA OFF SWITCH

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

VSA and Tire Sizes Driving with varying tire or wheel sizes may cause the VSA to malfunction. When replacing tires, make sure they are of the same size and type as your original tires (see page

232

).

Deactivate the VSA system if you need to drive with the compact spare tire installed (see page

240

).

If you install winter tires, make sure they are the same size as those that were originally supplied with your vehicle. Exercise the same caution during winter driving as you would if your vehicle was not equipped with VSA.

This switch is under the left vent. Press it to turn the VSA system on and off.

When VSA is off, the VSA activation indicator comes on as a reminder.

VSA is turned on every time you start the engine, even if you turned it off the last time you drove the vehicle.

183

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing a Trailer

Your vehicle has been designed primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. You can also use it to tow a trailer if you carefully observe the load limits, use the proper equipment, and follow the guidelines in this section.

Exceeding any load limit or improperly loading your vehicle and trailer can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting to drive.

184

Load Limits

The

Total Trailer Weight: maximum allowable weight of the trailer and everything in or on it must not exceed 1,000 lbs (450 kg). Towing a load that is too heavy can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling and performance. It can also damage the engine and drivetrain.

The weight that

Tongue Load: the tongue of a fully-loaded trailer puts on the hitch should be approximately 10 percent of the trailer weight. Too much tongue load reduces front-tire traction and steering control. Too little tongue load can make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo achieve a proper tongue load, start by loading 60 % of the load toward the front of the trailer and 40 % toward the rear, then re-adjust the load as needed.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the tongue load must not exceed:

U.S.VPandLX: CanadianDX-G:

4,080 Ibs (1,850 kg)

U.S.EXandEX-L: CanadianSEandEX-L:

4,145 Ibs (1,880 kg)

V6 models with automatic transmission:

4,345 Ibs (1,970 kg) V6 models with manual transmission:

4,300 Ibs (1,950 kg)

Towing a Trailer

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The total weight of each axle must not exceed:

U.S.VPandLX: CanadianDX-G:

2,195 Ibs (995 kg) on the front axle 1,960 Ibs (890 kg) on the rear axle U.S.EXandEX-L: CanadianSEandEX-L: 2,225 Ibs (1,010 kg) on the front axle 1,985 Ibs (900 kg) on the rear axle

V6 models:

2,360 Ibs (1,070 kg) on the front axle 2,005 Ibs (910 kg) on the rear axle

185

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing a Trailer

Checking Loads The best way to confirm that vehicle and trailer weights are within limits is to have them checked at a public scale. To locate the public scales in your area, consult your local yellow pages or ask your dealer for assistance.

Using a suitable scale or a special tongue load gauge, check the tongue load the first time you set up a towing combination (a fully-loaded vehicle and trailer), then recheck the tongue load whenever the conditions change.

Towing Equipment and Accessories Towing can require a variety of equipment, depending on the size of your trailer, how it will be used, how much load you are towing, and where you tow. To ensure the best quality, we recommend that you purchase Honda equipment whenever possible.

Discuss your needs with your trailer sales or rental agency, and follow the guidelines in the rest of this section. Also make sure that all equipment is properly installed and that it meets federal, state, province, and local regulations.

Hitches Any hitch used on your vehicle must be properly bolted to the underbody.

SafetyChains Always use safety chains when you tow a trailer. Make sure the chains are secured to the trailer and hitch, and that they cross under the tongue and can catch the trailer if it becomes unhitched. Leave enough slack to allow the trailer to turn corners easily, but do not let the chains drag on the ground.

186

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTrailerBrakes Honda recommends that any trailer having a total weight of 1,000 lbs (450 kg) or more be equipped with its own electric or surge-type brakes.

If you choose electric brakes, be sure they are electronically actuated. Do not attempt to tap into your vehicle’s hydraulic system. No matter how successful it may seem, any attempt to attach trailer brakes to your vehicle’s hydraulic system will lower braking effectiveness and create a potential hazard.

See your trailer dealer or rental agency for more information on installing electric brakes.

TrailerLights Trailer lights and equipment must comply with federal, state, and regulations. Check with your local trailer sales or rental agency for the requirements in your area, and use only equipment designed for your vehicle.

Since lighting and wiring vary by trailer type and brand, you should have a qualified technician install a suitable connector between the vehicle and the trailer. Improper equipment or installation can cause damage to your vehicle’s electrical system and affect your vehicle warranty.

Towing a Trailer

AdditionalTowingEquipment Many states and provinces require special outside mirrors when towing a trailer. Even if they don’t, you should install special mirrors if you cannot clearly see behind you, or if the trailer creates a blind spot.

Ask your trailer sales or rental agency if any other items are recommended or required for your towing situation.

187

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing a Trailer

Pre-Tow Checklist When preparing to tow, and before driving away, be sure to check the following:

The vehicle has been properly serviced, and the tires, brakes, suspension, cooling system, and lights are in good operating condition.

Your vehicle tires and spare are properly inflated (see page ), 228
and the trailer tires and spare are inflated as recommended by the trailer maker.

All weights and loads are within limits (see pages ).

and

184

186

Thehitch,safetychains,andany other attachments are secure.

All items in or on the trailer are properly secured and cannot shift while you drive.

188

Driving Safely With a Trailer The added weight, length, and height of a trailer will affect your vehicle’s handling and performance, so driving with a trailer requires some special driving skills and techniques.

For your safety and the safety of others, take time to practice driving maneuvers before heading for the open road, and follow the guidelines below.

TowingSpeedsandGears Drive slower than normal in all driving situations, and obey posted speed limits for vehicles with trailers. If you have an automatic transmission, use the D position when towing a trailer on level roads.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMakingTurnsandBraking Make turns more slowly and wider than normal. The trailer tracks a smaller arc than your vehicle, and it can hit or run over something the vehicle misses. Allow more time and distance for braking. Do not brake or turn suddenly as this could cause the trailer to jackknife or turn over.

DrivingonHills When climbing hills, closely watch your temperature gauge. If it nears the red (Hot) mark, turn the air conditioning off, reduce speed and, if necessary, pull to the side of the road to let the engine cool.

D is the proper shift lever position to use when towing a trailer in hilly terrain.

When driving down hills, reduce your speed, and shift down to second gear. Do not ‘‘ride’’ the brakes, and remember, it will take longer to slow down and stop when towing a trailer.

If you must stop when facing uphill, use the foot brake or parking brake. Do not try to hold the vehicle in place by pressing on the accelerator, as this can cause the automatic transmission to overheat.

HandlingCrosswindsandBuffeting Crosswinds and air turbulence caused by passing trucks can disrupt your steering and cause trailer swaying. When being passed by a large vehicle, keep a constant speed and steer straight ahead. Do not try to make quick steering or braking corrections.

Towing a Trailer

BackingUp Always drive slowly and have someone guide you when backing up. Grip the of the steering wheel, then turn the wheel to the left to get the trailer to move to the left. Turn the wheel to the right to move the trailer to the right.

bottom

Parking Follow all normal precautions when parking, including firmly setting the parking brake and putting the transmission in Park (automatic) or in 1st or reverse (manual). Also, place wheel chocks at each of the trailer’s tires.

189

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThis section explains why it is important to keep your vehicle well maintained and how to follow basic maintenance safety precautions.

This section also includes instructions on how to read the maintenance messages, a maintenance record, and instructions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.

If you have the skills and tools to perform more complex maintenance tasks on your vehicle, you may want to purchase the service manual. See page for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your dealer.

283

Adding Engine Coolant

Windshield Washers Transmission Fluid

Changing the Oil and Filter Engine Coolant

Recommended Engine Oil Synthetic Oil Engine Oil Additives

Maintenance Safety Maintenance Minder Maintenance Record Fluid Locations Adding Engine Oil

...................... .................... .................... .............................. ........................ ....... .............................. ................ ......... .............................. ............ .................... ....................... ..........

. 192
. 193
. 200
. 202
. 204
. 204
. 205
. 205
. 206
. 208
. 208
. 210
. 211
Automatic Transmission . 211
5-speed Manual Transmission. 213
6-speed Manual Transmission . 214
. 215
. 216
. 216
. 216
. 217
. 218
. 224
. 224
. 225
. 226

................ ................................ ............................... .................... .................................... ............................................. ................ ..................................... .................. .................................

Power Steering Fluid Timing Belt Lights Cleaning the Seat Belts Floor Mats Dust and Pollen Filter Wiper Blades

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake Fluid Clutch Fluid

Maintenance

Tires

............................................... ..................

Inflation Guidelines Recommended Tire

. 228
. 228

Pressures

Tire Inspection Tire Maintenance Tire Rotation Replacing Tires Wheels Wheels and Tires Winter Driving

............................... .......................... ..................... ............................. ........... ...................... .......................... ............................. ............................ ................... .............................

Snow Tires Tire Chains

Checking the Battery Vehicle Storage

. 229
. 230
. 230
. 231
. 232
. 232
. 233
. 233
. 234
. 235
. 236

191

Main MenustMaintenance Safety

All service items not detailed in this section should be performed by a certified technician or other qualified mechanic.

Important Safety Precautions To eliminate potential hazards, read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.

Make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground, the parking brake is set, and the engine is off. To clean parts, use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline. To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts. Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working near the battery or when using compressed air.

192

Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.

Some of the most important safety precautions are given here. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.

Improperly maintaining this vehicle or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection, maintenance recommendations, and schedules in this owner’s manual.

Be sure

Potential Vehicle Hazards Carbon Monoxide poison from engine exhaust. there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine. Burns from hot parts. Let the engine and exhaust system cool down before touching any parts. Injury from moving parts. Do not run the engine unless instructed to do so.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour vehicle displays engine oil life and maintenance service items on the information display to show you when you should have your dealer do engine oil replacement and indicated maintenance service.

Based on the engine operating conditions and accumulated engine revolutions, the onboard computer in your vehicle calculates the remaining engine oil life and displays it as a percentage.

Maintenance Minder

Engine Oil Life Indicator

SELECT/RESET KNOB

The remaining engine oil life is shown on the display according to this table:

Calculated Engine

Displayed

ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR

To see the current engine oil life, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and push and release the select/reset knob repeatedly until the engine oil life display appears (see page

64

).

Oil Life (%) 91 % 100 % 81 % 90 % 71 % 80 % 61 % 70 % 60 % 51 % 41 % 50 % 31 % 40 % 21 % 30 % 16 % 20 % 15 % 11 % 6 % 10 % 5 % 1 %

− − − − − − − − − − − − 0 %

Engine Oil Life (%)

100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 % 50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 15 % 10 % 5 % 0 %

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193

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Minder

MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR

ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR

MAINTENANCE ITEM CODE(S)

If the remaining engine oil life is 15
to 6 percent, you will see the engine oil life indicator every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. The maintenance minder indicator will also come on, and the maintenance item code(s) for other scheduled maintenance items needing service will be displayed next to the engine oil life indicator.

194

The maintenance item code or codes indicate the main and sub items required at the time of the oil change (see page

199

).

You can switch the information display from the engine oil life display to the odometer or the trip meter. Press and release the Select/ Reset knob on the instrument panel.

When the engine oil life is 15 to 1
percent, the maintenance minder indicator ( ) comes on every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, then it goes out if you switch the information display.

When you see this message, have the indicated maintenance performed by your dealer as soon as possible.

When the remaining engine oil life is 5 to 1 percent, you will see a ‘‘SERVICE’’ message along with the same maintenance item code(s), everytimeyouturntheignition switch to the ON (II) position.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Minder

The maximum total mileage shown is ‘‘ 9999.’’

−

To change the information display from the engine oil life display to the odometer or the trip meter, press and release the Select/Reset knob.

When the engine oil life is 0 percent or negative mileage, the maintenance minder indicator ) remains on even if you change the information display.

Immediately have the service performed, and make sure to reset the display as described on the next page.

195

When the remaining engine oil life is 0 percent, the engine oil life indicator will blink. The display comes on every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. The maintenance minder indicator on in the instrument panel. When you see this message, immediately have the indicated maintenance performed by your dealer.

) also comes on and remains

NEGATIVE MILEAGE

If you do not perform the indicated maintenance, negative mileage is displayed and begins to blink after the vehicle has been driven 10 miles (10 km) or more.

Negative mileage means your vehicle has passed the maintenance required point.

Immediately have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Minder

Maintenance Main Items and Sub Items

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM

ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEM(S)

Allmaintenanceitemsdisplayedin theinformationdisplayareincode. Foranexplanationofthese maintenancecodes,seepage.

199

Resetting the Engine Oil Life Indicator Yourdealerwillresetthedisplay aftercompletingtherequired maintenanceservi ce.Youwillsee (cid:145)(cid:145)OILLIFE100%(cid:146)(cid:146)ontheinformation displaythenexttimeyouturnthe ignitionswitchtotheON(II) position.

If maintenance service is done by someone other than your dealer, reset the maintenance minder as follows:

1.

Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

2.

Presstheselect/resetknobuntil theengineoillifeindicato ris displayed.

196

3.

Pressthe select/resetknobfor about10seconds.Theengineoil lifeandthem aintenanceitem code(s)willblink.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstImportant Maintenance Precautions If you have the required service done but do not reset the display, or reset the display without doing the service, the system will not show the proper maintenance intervals. This can lead to serious mechanical problems because you will no longer have an accurate record of when maintenance is needed.

Your authorized Honda dealer knows your vehicle best and can provide competent, efficient service.

4.

Press the select/reset knob for another 5 seconds. The maintenance item code(s) will disappear, and the engine oil life will reset to ‘‘100.’’

Maintenance Minder

However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. Make sure to have the service facility or person reset the display as previously described. Keep all receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out the maintenance record. Check your warranty booklet for more information.

We recommend the use of Honda parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high- quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability.

CONTINUED

197

Main MenuTable of Contentsst−

Lights Check the operation of the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, and license plate lights monthly. See page

218

Maintenance Minder

U.S. Vehicles: Maintenance, replacement, or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.

＃

According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with will not void your emissions warranties. However, all maintenance services should be performed in accordance with the intervals indicated by the odometer/ trip meter display.

198

Owner’s Maintenance Checks Youshouldcheckthefollowing items at the specified intervals. If you are unsure of how to perform any check, turn to the appropriate page listed.

Engine oil level Check every time you fill the fuel tank. See page

159

−

Engine coolant level Check the radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank. See page

160

−

Automatic transmission Check the fluid level monthly. See page 211

−

Brakes Check the fluid level monthly. See page

215

−

−

Tires Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects. See page 228

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Minder

Symbol

Maintenance Main Items

＊

＊

Replace engine oil Replace engine oil and oil filter Inspect front and rear brakes Check parking brake adjustment Inspect these items:

Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and boots Suspension components Driveshaft boots Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system Fuel lines and connections

＃

＃

＊

1 :

If the message ‘‘SERVICE OIL’’ does not appear more than 12 months after the display is reset, change the engine oil every year.

＃

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty in the first column on page

198

NOTE:

Independent of the maintenance minder display, replace the brake fluid every 3 years.

Inspect idle speed every 160,000 miles (256,000 km).

Adjust the valves during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 only if they are noisy.

Symbol

Maintenance Sub Items

Rotate tires Replace air cleaner element

If you drive in dusty conditions, replace every 15,000
miles (24,000 km).

Replace dust and pollen filter

If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air from industry and from diesel-powered vehicles, replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

Inspect drive belt Replace transmission fluid

Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds or trailer towing results in higher transmission and transfer temperatures. This requires transmission and transfer fluid changes more frequently than recommended by the Maintenance Minder. If you regularly drive your vehicle under these conditions, have the transmission and transfer fluid changed at 60,000
miles (100,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (For A/T only:)

Replace spark plugs Replace timing belt and inspect water pump (V6 engine only)

If you drive regularly in very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°C), or in very low temperatures (under − (Canada).

29°C), replace every 60,000 miles (U.S.)/100,000 km

−

20°F,

Inspect valve clearance Replace engine coolant

199

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Record

You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here. When maintenance is performed, record the mileage, circle the coded item(s) completed, and write in any other non-coded items (such as brake fluid replacement) below the codes. Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle. Maintenance can also be recorded in your Honda service history booklet.

Mileage

Maintenance Performed

Signature

Date

Mileage

Maintenance Performed

Signature

Date

mi km

mi km

mi km

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstMileage

Maintenance Performed

Signature

Date

Mileage

Maintenance Performed

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Maintenance Record

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstFluid Locations

4-cylinder models

BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange handle)

WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)

RADIATOR CAP

202

CLUTCH FLUID (5-speed manual transmission only) (Light gray cap)

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)

COOLANT RESERVOIR

Main MenuTable of ContentsstV6 models

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop)

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap)

WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)

Fluid Locations

CLUTCH FLUID (6-speed manual transmission only) (Light gray cap)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)

COOLANT RESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP

203

Main MenuTable of ContentsstRecommended Engine Oil Oil is a major contributor to your engine’s performance and longevity. Always use a premium-grade 5W-20
detergent oil displaying the API Certification Seal. This seal indicates the oil is energy conserving, and that it meets the American Petroleum Institute’s latest requirements.

Adding Engine Oil

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

4-cylinder models

V6 models

Unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on top of the valve cover. Pour in the oil slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled oil could damage components in the engine compartment.

Install the engine oil fill cap, and tighten it securely. Wait a few minutes, and recheck the oil level. Do not fill above the upper mark; you could damage the engine.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstHonda Motor Oil is the preferred 5W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. It is highly recommended that you use Honda Motor Oil in your vehicle for optimum engine protection. Make sure the API Certification Seal says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’

The oil viscosity or weight is provided on the container’s label. 5W-20 oil is formulated for year- round protection of your vehicle to improve cold weather starting and fuel economy.

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

Ambient Temperature

Adding Engine Oil

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

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

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging the Oil and Filter

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

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

1.

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

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WASHER

OIL DRAIN BOLT

OIL DRAIN BOLT

WASHER

4-cylinder models

2.

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

V6 models Remove the oil filter and let the 3. remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your dealer) is required.

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstOIL FILTER

OIL FILTER

4-cylinder models Install a new oil filter according to 4. the instructions that come with it. Make sure to clean off any dirt and dust on the connecting surface of a new oil filter.

5.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten it to: (4-cylinder models) 33 lbf·ft (45 N·m , 4.6 kgf·m) (6-cylinder models)