BUCKLE
LATCH PLATE
This style of seat belt has a single belt that goes over your shoulder, across your chest and across your hips.
The lap belt has one manually adjusted belt that fits across the hips. It is similar to safety belts used in airplanes.
Each lap/shoulder belt has an emergency locking retractor. In normal driving, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat while it keeps some tension on the belt. During a collision or sudden stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body.
Wearing Seat Belts Properly You can increase the effective- ness of your seat belts if you take a little time to read the following pages and make sure you know how to wear seat belts properly.
Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash.
Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly.
The Seat Belt System and How It Works
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt
Before putting on a front seat belt, be sure your seat is adjusted forward or backward to a good driving or riding position and the back of your seat is upright (see page 52). 1. Pull the latch plate across
your body, and insert it into the buckle. Tug on the belt to make sure the latch is securely locked.
2. Check to see that the belt is
not twisted.
3. Position the lap portion of the belt as low as possible across your hips, not across your stomach. This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash.
continued
Driver and Passenger Safety
The Seat Belt System and How It Works
4. Pull up on the shoulder part of
5.
the belt to remove any slack. Make sure the belt goes over your collarbone and across your chest.
To unlatch the seat belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. Guide the belt across your body to the door pillar. If the belt doesn't retract easily, pull it out and check for twists or kinks.
If the shoulder belt crosses your neck, you need to adjust the belt anchor height or your seating position. Front seats: Adjust the belt anchor by squeezing the two buttons and sliding the anchor downward (it has four positions).
Rear seats: Move toward the center of the seat until the belts fits over your collarbone.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Wearing the Lap Belt
The Seat Belt System and How It Works
1. Pull the latch plate across
your hips, and insert it into the buckle marked CENTER.
If the belt is too short, hold the latch plate at a right angle and pull to extend the belt. Insert the latch plate into the buckle.
2. Position the belt so it fits as low as possible across your hips and pelvic bones, not across your stomach. Pull the loose end of the belt to adjust for a snug but comfortable fit.
To unlatch the belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle.
Driver and Passenger Safety
The Seat Belt System and How It Works
Advice for Pregnant Women
If possible, use the lap/shoulder seat belt, remembering to keep the lap portion as low as possible (see page 7).
Each time you have a check-up, ask your doctor if it's okay for you to drive and how you should position a lap/shoulder seat belt.
Protecting the mother is the best way to protect her unborn child. Therefore, a pregnant woman should wear a properly positioned seat belt whenever she drives or rides in a car.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Seat Belt Maintenance For safety, you should check the condition of your seat belts regularly.
Pull out each belt fully and look for frays, cuts, burns and wear. Check to see that the latches work smoothly and the lap/shoulder belts retract easily. Any belt not in good condition or not working properly should be replaced.
If a seat belt is worn during a crash, have your dealer replace the belt and check the anchors for damage.
For information on how to clean your seat belts, see page 169.
Supplemental Restraint System
Your Accord is equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) to help protect your head and chest during a severe frontal collision. This system does not replace your seat belt. It supplements, or adds to, the protection offered by your seat belt.
Not wearing a seat belt 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.
DRIVER'S AIRBAG
SRS INDICATOR
PASSENGER'S AIRBAG
SENSOR
CONTROL UNIT
SENSOR
The main components in your SRS are:
One airbag in the steering wheel for the driver and another in the dashboard for the front seat passenger.
A diagnostic system that, when the ignition is ON (II), continu- ally monitors the sensors, control unit, airbag activator, and all related wiring. An indicator light to warn you of a possible problem with the system. Emergency power backup in case your car's electrical system is disconnected in a crash.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Supplemental Restraint System
FRONTAL COLLISION RANGE
How the Driver's Airbag Works
An airbag inflates and deflates very quickly. It cannot protect you during any additional impacts that can occur during a crash. A seat belt helps keep you in the proper position when an airbag inflates. An airbag opens with considerable force and can hurt you if you are not in the proper position.
Important Safety Reminder Even with an airbag, you need to wear a seat belt. The reasons are:
Airbags only inflate in severe frontal collisions. They offer no protection in rear impacts, side impacts, rollovers or moderate frontal collisions.
Driver and Passenger Safety
If you ever have a severe frontal collision, your airbag will instantly inflate to help protect your head and chest.
When the airbag inflates, you may hear a fairly loud noise and you might see smoke or powder. This is normal; it is caused by the inflation of the airbag.
Supplemental Restraint System
To do its job, the airbag inflates with considerable force. So, while it can reduce serious injuries and even save your life, the airbag might cause some facial abrasions or other injuries. For this reason, you should always sit as far back from the steering wheel as comfortable while still maintaining control.
After the bag completely inflates, it immediately starts deflating so it won't interfere with your visibility, ability to steer, or ability to operate other controls.
The total time for inflating and deflating is a fraction of a second. You may not even be aware that the airbag has been fully inflated.
The airbag is stored in the center of the steering wheel. For safety, do not attach any items to the steering wheel. They could interfere with the proper opera- tion of the airbag. Or, if the airbag inflates, the items could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone.
How the Passenger's Airbag Works
If you have a severe frontal collision, the passenger's airbag will inflate at the same time as the driver's airbag.
continued
Driver and Passenger Safety
Supplemental Restraint System
This airbag is quite large and inflates with considerable force. It can seriously hurt a front seat passenger who is not in the proper position and wearing the seat belt properly.
Front seat passengers should move the seat as far back as practical and sit well back in the seat.
If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.
Because of the airbag, we strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can dislodge the infant seat and seriously injure the infant.
The passenger's airbag is stored near the top of the dashboard, under a lid marked SRS (see page 11). Do not place any objects on top of this lid. If the airbag inflates, those objects can be propelled inside the car and possibly hurt someone.
SRS
How the SRS Indicator Light Works
The purpose of the SRS light on your instrument panel is to alert you to a potential problem with your supplemental restraint system.
Have the system checked if:
The light does not come on when you turn the ignition ON (II). The light stays on after the engine starts. The light comes on or flashes while you are driving.
Driver and Passenger Safety
System Service Your supplemental restraint system is virtually maintenance- free. There are no parts you can safely service. You must have the system serviced by an authorized Honda dealer:
If your airbags ever inflate. The airbags and control unit must be replaced. Do not try to remove or discard the airbags by yourself. This must be done by a Honda dealer. If the SRS indicator light alerts you of a problem. Have the supplemental restraint system checked as soon as possible. Otherwise, your airbags might not inflate when you need them. When the car is 10 years old. Have the dealer inspect the system. The production date is on the driver's doorjamb for your convenience.
Supplemental Restraint System
Scrapping an entire car that has uninflated airbags can be dangerous. Get assistance from a Honda dealer if your car must be scrapped.
If you sell your car, please be sure to tell the new owner that the car has a supplemental restraint system. Alert them to the information and precautions in this part of the Owner's Manual.
System Service Precautions Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of the supplemental restraint system. Modifications could make the system ineffective.
Do not tamper with the system's components or wiring. This could cause the airbags to inflate inadvertently, possibly injuring someone very seriously.
Tell anyone who works on your car that you have a supplemental restraint system. Failure to follow the procedures and precautions in the official Honda service manual could result in personal injury or damage to the system.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Additional Safety Information
The seat belts and airbags are obviously important parts of your occupant protection system.
In addition, you should know that sitting upright, adjusting the head restraint properly, locking the doors, and stowing things properly can also increase your safety and possibly even save your life.
Seat-Back Position The seat-backs should be in an upright position for you and your passengers to get the most protection from the seat belts.
If you recline a seat-back, you reduce the protective capability of your seat belt. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk that you will slide under the belt in a severe crash and be very seriously injured.
For information on how to adjust the seat-back, see page 52.
Head Restraint Position
Head restraints can help protect you from whiplash and other injuries. For the best protection, adjust the top of the restraint so it is even with the tops of your ears, or as high as possible. For instructions on adjusting the head restraints, see page 53.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Additional Safety Information
Door Locks It is not safe to leave your car doors unlocked. A passenger, especially a child, could open a door and accidentally fall out. Also, there is a greater chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash when the doors are not locked.
Storing Cargo Safely Before you drive, make sure you first securely store or tie down any items that could be thrown around the car and hurt someone or interfere with your ability to operate the controls.
Be sure to keep compartment doors closed when the car is moving. If a front passenger hits the door of an open glove box, for example, he could injure his knees.
For information on loading cargo, see page 96.
Driving With Pets Loose pets can be a hazard while you are driving. An unrestrained pet can interfere with your ability to drive the car. In a crash or sudden stop, loose pets or cages can be thrown around inside the car and hurt you or your passengers. It is also for their safety that pets should be properly restrained in your car.
The recommended way to restrain a medium-sized or larger dog is with a special traveling harness. This harness can be secured to the rear seat with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are available at pet stores.
A small dog, cat, or other small animal will be safest in a pet carrier with rigid sides. Choose a style that allows you to secure it to the car's seat by routing a seat belt through the carrier's handle.
For further information, contact your veterinarian or local animal protection society.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Child Safety
Children depend on adults to protect them. To help make sure we do, every state and Canadian province has laws requiring infants and young children to be properly restrained whenever they ride in a car.
Driver and Passenger Safety
We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged and the baby seriously injured.
If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.
We also recommend that any child who is too large to use an infant or toddler seat ride in one of the outside positions of the rear seat. The child should then wear the lap/shoulder belt properly for protection.
An infant or child who is not properly restrained can be killed or seriously injured in a crash.
Be sure any child too small for seat belts is properly secured in a child restraint.
Where Should Children Sit? According to accident statistics, children of all sizes and ages are safer when they are properly restrained in the rear seat rather than the front seat.
We recommend that, whenever possible, you secure your child's infant or toddler seat in the center position of the rear seat with the lap belt.
Important Safety Reminders Never hold a baby or child on your lap when riding in a car. If you are wearing your seat belt, the violent forces created during a crash will tear the child from your arms. The child could be seriously hurt or killed. If you are holding a child and not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could crush the child against the car's interior. Never put your seat belt over yourself and a child. During a crash, the belt could press deep into the child causing serious internal injuries. Two children should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash. If your are driving with small children in the car, you should use the childproof door locks to prevent them from opening the rear doors (see page 50).
General Guidelines for
Restraining Children Under
40 Ib (18 kg)
Use an approved child seat. The
seat must meet Federal Motor
Vehicle Safety Standard 213
(FMVSS-213) or Canadian Motor
Vehicle Safety Standards. Look for
the manufacturer's statement of
compliance on the box and seat.
Use a seat of the right size. Make sure the seat fits your child. Check the seat's instructions and labels for height and weight limits.
Secure the child seat to the car. All approved child seats are designed to be secured in the car seat by the lap belt or the lap belt portion of a lap/shoulder belt. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the car can be endangered in a crash.
Child Safety
To properly route a seat belt through a child seat, follow the seat-maker's instructions. If you use a lap/shoulder belt, be sure you install a locking clip on the belt (see page 22).
Secure the child in the child seat. Make sure the infant or child is firmly secured to the child seat. Use the straps provided, and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Driver and Passenger Safety
We recommend that, whenever possible, you put the infant seat in the center position of the rear seat and secure it to the car with the lap belt.
If you decide to put an infant seat in any other seating position, you must use a locking clip on the car's lap/shoulder belt (see page 22).
We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. In a severe frontal collision, the inflating airbag can hit the infant seat with considerable force. The infant seat can be dislodged, causing serious injury to the infant.
Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 20 and 40 Ib (9 and 18 kg)
Toddler seats are designed for
children who weigh between 20
and 40 Ib (9 and 18 kg).
Child Safety
Restraining an Infant Who Weighs Less Than 20 Ib (9 kg)
An infant up to about 20 Ib (9 kg) must be restrained in an infant seat or a convertible seat designed for a baby. Because infants must ride in a reclining position, be sure the infant seat always faces the REAR of the car as shown.
Driver and Passenger Safety
The preferred place to put a toddler seat is in the center position of the rear seat. Use the car's lap belt to secure the seat to the car.
If you decide to put a toddler seat in any other seating position, you must use a locking clip on the car's lap/shoulder belt (see page 22).
If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.
Restraining a Child Who Weighs Over 40 Ib (18 kg)
We recommend that, whenever possible, a child who has outgrown a toddler seat ride in one of the outside positions of the rear seat and use a lap/shoulder belt.
Child Safety
Put the lap/shoulder belt on your child and check its fit. The shoulder belt should fit over the collarbone and across the chest. The lap belt should sit low on your child's hips, not across the stomach.
If the shoulder belt crosses the neck, have your child move toward the center of the rear seat until the belt fits properly. If the belt still crosses the child's neck, you should use a booster seat.
Several styles of booster seats are available. We recommend a design that allows the child to use the car's lap/shoulder belt.
Whichever style you select, follow the booster seat manufacturer's instructions.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Child Safety
Using a Seat Belt Locking Clip Always use a seat belt locking clip when you secure a child seat to your car with a lap/shoulder belt. This helps prevent the seat from shifting position or overturning.
A locking clip is usually included with the child seat. If you need a clip, contact the seat's manufacturer or a store that sells child restraints.
To install a locking clip, do the following: 1. Place the child restraint in the
desired position. Route the lap/shoulder belt through the restraint according to the seat manufacturer's instructions. 2. Insert the latch plate into the buckle. Pull on the shoulder part of the belt to make sure there is no slack in the lap portion.
Driver and Passenger Safety
3. Tightly grasp the belt near the
latch plate. Pinch both parts of the belt together so they won't slip through the latch plate. Unbuckle the seat belt.
held firmly in place. If it is not, repeat these steps until the restraint is secure.
Using Child Restraints With Tethers
4.
5.
Install the locking clip as shown. Position the clip as close as possible to the latch plate. Insert the latch plate into the buckle. Push and pull on the child seat to verify that it is
TETHER ATTACHMENT POINTS
Your Honda has three attachment points for tether-style child seats. Two are on the floor behind each rear seat. A third attachment point is at the headliner at the tailgate opening. To access, remove the plug cap.
If you are not sure how to install the bracket, have it installed by your authorized Honda dealer.
Canadian Cars
TOOTHED WASHER
If you need an anchor plate and mounting hardware, you can obtain them by writing to:
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Consumer Affairs
1919 Torrance Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90501-2746
Child Safety
Storing a Child Seat When you are not using an infant seat or other child restraint, either remove it or make sure it is properly secured so it cannot be thrown around the car during a crash.
The anchor plate and mounting hardware for a top tether are supplied w i th the car. When installing, make sure the toothed washer is on the bottom of the bolt.
The supplied anchor plate is designed only for mounting a child restraint. Do not use it for any other purpose.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Alcohol and Drugs
Driving a car requires your full attention and alertness. Traffic conditions change rapidly. You must be able to react just as rapidly. Alcohol or drugs directly affect your alertness and ability to react. Even prescription and non-prescription medicines can have this effect.
There are laws that deal with drunken driving. These laws define how much alcohol it takes in your system to be legally "drunk." However, your judgment and reaction time get worse with every drink - even the first one.
The safest thing you can do is never drink and drive. This can be done if you plan ahead. If you know you are going to be drinking, make plans to ride with a friend who will not be drinking.
What if you find that you've been drinking and cannot get a ride from a friend? Find alternative transportation. Call a taxi. Take a bus. Many communities have transportation services devoted to shuttling people who have been drinking.
If you have no choice but to drive, stop drinking and give yourself lots of time to sober up. Time is the only thing that can make you sober. Things like coffee or a cold shower don't speed up the process.
If you see friends trying to get behind the wheel after drinking, stop them. Drive them yourself or arrange other transportation. If you think you are interfering, remember that your interference will keep them from sharing the road with you.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Your car's exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas. You should have no problem with carbon monoxide entering the car in normal driving if you maintain your car properly. Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever:
The car is raised for an oil change. You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust. The car was in an accident that may have damaged the underside.
Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and can even kill you.
Avoid any enclosed areas or activities that expose you to carbon monoxide.
High levels of carbon monoxide can collect rapidly in enclosed areas, such as a garage. Do not run the engine with the garage door closed. Even with the door open, run the engine only long enough to move the car out of the garage.
Carbon Monoxide Hazard
With the tailgate open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your car's interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the tailgate open, open all the windows and set the heating and cooling system as shown below.
If you must sit in your parked car, even in an unconfined area, with the engine running, adjust the heating and cooling system as follows:
1. Push the
button.
2. Select the
mode.
3. Turn the fan on high speed.
4. Set the temperature control to
a comfortable setting.
Driver and Passenger Safety
RADIATOR CAP
Safety Labels
These labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully, and don't remove them.
If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer for a replacement.
BATTERY
Driver and Passenger Safety
This section gives information about the controls and displays that contribute to the daily operation of your Honda. All the essential controls are within easy reach.
Control Locations . . . . . . . . . . .. 28
Indicator Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 29
Gauges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 35
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . .. 35
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 35
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 35
Trip Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 35
Fuel Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 36
Temperature Gauge . . . . . .. 36
Maintenance Required
Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 37
Controls Near the
Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . .. 38
Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 39
Daytime Running Lights . .. 40
Instrument Panel
Brightness
. . . . . . . . . . .. 40
Turn Signals . . . . . . . . . . . .. 40
Windshield Wipers . . . . . .. 41
Rear Window
Wiper/Washer
. . . . . . . .. 41
Windshield Washers . . . . .. 42
Hazard Warning . . . . . . . . .. 42
Rear Window Defogger . . .. 42
Steering Wheel Adjustment 43
Steering Wheel Controls . . . . .. 44
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . .. 44
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 47
Keys and Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 47
Keys
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 47
Remote Transmitter . . . . .. 47
Ignition Switch . . . . . . . . . .. 48
Power Door Locks . . . . . . .. 49
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 49
Remote Access . . . . . . . . . .. 50
Childproof Door Locks . . .. 50
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 51
Tailgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 51
Seat Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . .. 52
Front Seat Adjustments . .. 52
Instruments and Controls
Driver's Seat Power
Height Adjustment . . . .. 53
Driver's Lumbar Support .. 53
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . .. 53
Folding Rear Seat . . . . . . . .. 54
Rear Seat Armrest . . . . . . .. 54
Power Windows . . . . . . . . . . . .. 55
Moonroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 57
Sunshade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 58
Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 58
Power Mirrors . . . . . . . . . .. 59
Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 60
Digital C l o c k . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 60
Beverage Holder . . . . . . . . . . . .. 62
Console Compartment........ 62
Coin Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 63
Vanity Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 63
Cigarette Lighter . . . . . . . . . . .. 63
Ashtrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 64
Interior Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 65
Courtesy Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 65
Instruments and Controls
DIGITAL CLOCK
AUDIO SYSTEM
HEATING/COOLING CONTROL
Control Locations
DOOR LOCK
MIRROR CONTROLS
POWER WINDOW SWITCH
FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE
Instruments and Controls
HOOD RELEASE HANDLE
The instrument panel has many indicators to give you important information about your car.
Lamp Check Many of the indicator lights come on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II), allowing you to see that they are working. The instrument panel should look like the illustration. If an indicator does not light during this test, it cannot alert you if that system develops a problem. Have the dealer check your car for burned-out bulbs or other problems.
* The U.S. EX instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian model are noted in the text.
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR
PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*
CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR
LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR
Indicator Lights
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR
SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT
CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR
DOOR AND BRAKE LAMP MONITOR
LOW FUEL INDICATOR
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ CHECK ENGINE LIGHT*
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*
Instruments and Controls
Indicator Lights
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR
PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*
CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR
LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR
SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT
CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR
DOOR AND BRAKE LAMP MONITOR
LOW FUEL INDICATOR
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ CHECK ENGINE LIGHT*
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*
Instruments and Controls
Seat Belt Reminder Light
This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder to you and your passengers to protect yourselves by fastening the seat belts. A beeper also sounds if you have not fastened your seat belt.
If you do not fasten your seat belt, the beeper will stop after a few seconds but the light stays on until you do. Both the light and the beeper stay off if you fasten your seat belt before turning on the ignition.
* The U.S. EX instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian model are noted in the text.
Charging System Indicator
This light indicates the battery is not being charged. It should come on when the ignition is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. If this light comes on while driving, the battery is not being charged. Turn to page 185 for information about what to do.
Low Oil Pressure Indicator This indicator lights when the oil pressure in the engine drops low enough to cause damage. It should light when the ignition is ON (II) and go out after the engine starts. If this light comes on when the engine is running, there is a possibility of serious engine damage. Safely pull to the side of the road and shut off the engine as soon as you can. Turn to page 184 for instructions and precautions on checking the engine.
Indicator Lights
Canada
U.S. BRAKE
Parking Brake and Brake System Indicator Light
This light has two functions: 1. It lights as a reminder that you
have set the parking brake. Driving with the parking brake set can damage the brakes and tires, and cause the anti-lock brake system to turn off (see page 200).
2.
It can indicate the brake fluid level is low if it remains lit after you release the parking brake or comes on while driving. This is normally due to worn brake pads. Have your dealer check the braking system for worn pads or fluid leaks.
Instruments and Controls
CHECK
U.S.: Malfunction Indicator Lamp Canada: Check Engine Light
This light comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it indicates one of the engine's emissions control systems may have a problem. Turn to page 186 for information about what to do.
Indicator Lights
SRS
Supplemental Restraint System Indicator
The SRS light normally comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition ON (II). If it doesn't, or it stays on after the engine starts, something is wrong with the Supplemental Restraint System. It may also flash on and off to indicate a problem.
If you see any of these indications, the airbags may not work when needed in an accident. Take the car to your dealer promptly for diagnosis and service.
Instruments and Controls
U.S.
Canada
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Indicator
On cars equipped with ABS (see page 200)
This light normally comes on when you turn the ignition ON (II) and goes off after the engine starts. If it comes on at any other time, there is a problem in the ABS. If this happens, stop the car in a safe place and turn off the engine. Reset the system by restarting the engine. Watch the ABS light. If it does not go off, or comes back on again while driving, take the car to your dealer to have it checked. With the light on, your car still has normal braking ability but no anti-lock.
Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Indicators
The left or right turn signal light blinks when you signal a lane change or turn. If the light does not blink or blinks rapidly, it usually means one of the turn signal bulbs is burned out (see page 158). Replace it as soon as possible, since other drivers cannot see that you are signaling.
When you turn on the Hazard Warning switch, both turn signal lights blink. All turn signals on the outside of the car should flash.
Door and Brake Lamp Monitor
The appropriate light comes on in this display if the tailgate or any door is not closed tightly. If a brake lamp (except for the high-mount stoplight) does not work, the BRAKE LAMP indicator comes on when you push the brake pedal with the ignition switch ON (II).
A burned out brake light is a hazard when drivers behind you cannot tell you are braking. Have your brake lights repaired right away.
All the lights in the monitor display come on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II).
Indicator Lights
High Beam Indicator
This light comes on with the
high beam headlights. See page 39
for information on the headlight
controls.
Canada
Daytime Running Lights (DRL) Indicator
Canadian models only This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II) with the headlight switch off and the parking brake set. It should go off if you turn on the headlights or release the parking brake. If it comes on at any other time, it means there is a problem with the DRL. There may also be a problem with the high beam headlights.
Instruments and Controls
Indicator Lights
Cruise Control Indicator
CRUISE CONTROL This lights when you set the cruise control. See page 44 for information on operating the cruise control.
Low Fuel Indicator
This light comes on as a reminder that you must refuel soon.
Shift Lever Position Indicator (Automatic Transmission only)
acceleration, and have the transmission checked by an authorized Honda dealer as soon as possible.
This indicator between the tachometer and speedometer shows which shift position the shift lever is in. The "D4" indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid
Instruments and Controls
TEMPERATURE GAUGE
TACHOMETER
ODOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE
MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR
TRIP METER Tachometer
TRIP METER RESET BUTTON
The tachometer shows the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). To protect the engine from damage, never drive with the tachometer needle in the red zone.
Speedometer U.S. Models This shows your speed in miles per hour. The smaller inner numbers are the speed in kilometers per hour.
Canadian Models This shows your speed in kilometers per hour. The smaller inner numbers are the speed in miles per hour.
Gauges
Odometer The odometer shows the total distance your car has been driven. It measures miles in U.S. models and kilometers in Canadian models. It is illegal under federal law (in the U.S.) and provincial regulations (in Canada) to disconnect, reset, or alter the odometer with the intent to change the number of miles or kilometers indicated.
Trip Meter This meter shows the number of miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada) driven since you last reset it. To reset it, push the trip meter reset button.
Instruments and Controls
Temperature Gauge This shows the temperature of the engine's coolant. During normal operation, the pointer should rise from the bottom white mark to about the middle of the gauge. In severe driving conditions, such as very hot weather or a long period of uphill driving, the pointer may rise to the upper white mark. If it reaches the red (Hot) mark, pull safely to the side of the road. Turn to page 132 for instructions and precautions on checking the engine's cooling system.
Gauges
TEMPERATURE GAUGE
TACHOMETER
ODOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE
MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR
TRIP METER
TRIP METER RESET BUTTON
Fuel Gauge This shows how much fuel you have. It is most accurate when the car is on level ground. It may show slightly more or less than the actual amount when you are driving on curvy or hilly roads.
The gauge stays at the same fuel level reading after you turn off the ignition. When you add fuel, the gauge slowly changes to the new reading after you turn the ignition back ON (II).
Instruments and Controls
Maintenance Required Indicator
INDICATOR
inserting your key in the slot next to the indicator.
Gauges
SLOT
The indicator reminds you when it is time for scheduled mainte- nance. When it nears 7,500 miles (12,000 km) since the last mainte- nance, the indicator will turn yellow. If you exceed 7,500 miles (12,000 km), the indicator will turn red. Your dealer will reset the indicator when he performs the scheduled maintenance. If someone else performs the main- tenance, reset the indicator by
Instruments and Controls
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
The two levers on the steering column contain controls for driving features you use most often. The left lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams. The right lever controls the windshield washers and wipers.
The rear window defogger switch is on the dashboard to the right of the steering column.
The controls under the left air vent are for the moonroof, cruise control and instrument panel brightness.
The tilt adjustment lever on the underside of the steering column allows you to tilt the steering wheel.
Instruments and Controls
INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS
REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER
WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS
MOONROOF SWITCH
CRUISE CONTROL
HEADLIGHTS/ TURN SIGNALS
TILT ADJUSTMENT
HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS
Headlights
If you leave the lights on with the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0), you will hear a reminder chime when you open the driver's door.
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
The rotating switch on the left lever controls the lights. Turning this switch to the first position turns on the parking lights, tail lights, instrument panel lights, side-marker lights, and rear license plate lights. Turning the switch to the second position turns on the headlights.
To change between low beams and high beams, pull the turn signal lever toward you until you hear a click, then let go. The high beam indicator will light (see page 33).
Instruments and Controls
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
To flash the high beams, pull back and hold the turn signal lever. Release the lever and the high beams will go off.
The high beams will stay on for as long as you hold the lever, no matter what position the headlight switch is in.
Daytime Running Lights Canadian models
With the headlight switch off, the high beam headlights come on with reduced brightness when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II) and release the parking brake. They remain on until you turn the ignition off, even if you set the parking brake.
The headlights revert to normal operation when you turn them on with the switch.
Instruments and Controls
Instrument Panel Brightness
Turn Signals
The knob on the dashboard to the left of the instrument panel controls the brightness of the instrument panel lights. Push the knob to get it to pop out. Turn the knob to adjust the brightness. Push the knob back in to lock your adjustment.
Signal a turn or lane change with this lever. Push down on the lever to signal a left turn, and up to signal a right turn. If you push it up or down all the way, the turn signal continues to blink even when you release the lever. It shuts off auto- matically as you complete the turn. To signal a lane change, push lightly on the turn signal lever in the proper direction and hold it. The lever will return to the center position as soon as you release it.
Windshield Wipers
Rear Window Wiper/Washer
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
To operate the wipers in mist mode, push the control lever down. The wipers run at high speed until you release the lever. This gives you a quick way to clear the windshield.
The right lever controls the wind- shield wipers and washers. The rotary switch at the end of the lever has three positions: INT- intermittent LO - low speed HI - high speed
In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. In low speed and high speed, the wipers run continuously.
The rear window wiper switch is located next to the windshield wiper switch.
To activate the rear windshield wiper, turn the switch "ON." If you wish to use the wiper and washer, turn and hold the switch one position up from "ON." To use the washer only, turn and hold the switch one position down from "OFF."
Instruments and Controls
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Windshield Washers
Hazard Warning
Rear Window Defogger
To clean the front windshield, pull back on the wiper control lever. The washers spray until you release the lever. The wipers run at low speed while you're pulling the lever, then complete one more sweep of the windshield after you release it.
Push the red button to the left of the clock to turn on the hazard warning lights (four-way flashers). This causes all four outside turn signals and both indicators in the instrument panel to flash. Use the hazard warning lights if you need to park in a dangerous area near heavy traffic, or if your car is disabled.
The rear window defogger will clear fog, frost, and thin ice from the window. Push the defogger button to turn it on and off. The light in the button lights to show the defogger is on. If you do not turn it off, the defogger will shut itself off after about 25 minutes. It also shuts off when you turn off the ignition. You have to turn it on again when you restart the car.
Instruments and Controls
Controls Near the Steering Wheel
Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive.
The defogger wires on the inside of the rear window can be accidentally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side to side.
Steering Wheel Adjustment You can adjust the steering wheel height to suit your preference. Do this before you begin driving.
Adjusting the steering wheel position while driving may cause you to lose control of the car and be seriously injured in a crash.
Adjust the steering wheel when the car is stopped.
1. Adjust the seat so you are a
comfortable distance from the pedals and can operate them safely.
2. The lever to tilt the steering wheel is under the steering column to the left. Push this lever all the way down.
3. Move the steering wheel up or
down to the desired position. Position the wheel so you can see all the instrument panel gauges and warning lights. Push the lever up to lock the steering wheel in that position.
4. Make sure you have securely locked the steering wheel in place by trying to move it up and down.
Instruments and Controls
Steering Wheel Controls
Cruise Control Cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. It is for cruising on straight, open highways. It is not recommended for conditions such as city driving, winding roads, slippery roads, heavy rain, or bad weather. You should have full control of the car under those conditions.
Improper use of the cruise control can lead to a crash.
Use the cruise control only when traveling on open highways in good weather.
Instruments and Controls
Using the Cruise Control
RESUME accel
SET/ decel
3. Press and hold the SET/decel button on the steering wheel until the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel comes on. This shows the system is now activated.
The set speed may vary slightly, particularly on hills.
1. Push in the Cruise Control Master Switch to the left of the steering column. The indicator in the switch will light.
2. Accelerate to the desired
cruising speed above 25 mph (40 km/h).
Changing the Set Speed You can increase the set cruising speed in either of two ways:
Press and hold the RESUME/accel button. The car will accelerate slowly. When you reach the desired cruising speed, release the button. Push on the accelerator pedal. Accelerate to the desired cruising speed and press the SET/decel button.
You can decrease the set cruising speed in either of two ways:
Press and hold the SET/decel button. The car will decelerate. Release the button when you reach the desired speed.
Tap the brake or clutch pedal lightly with your foot. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out. When the car slows to the desired speed, press the SET/decel button. The car will then maintain the desired speed.
Even with the cruise control turned on, you can still use the accelerator pedal to speed up for passing. After completing the pass, take your foot off the accelerator pedal. The car will return to the set cruising speed.
Resting your foot on the brake or clutch pedal will cause the cruise control to cancel.
Steering Wheel Controls
Canceling the Cruise Control Any of these actions cause the cruise control to cancel.
Tap the brake or clutch pedal. Press the SET/decel and RESUME/accel buttons at the same time. Press the Cruise Control Master Switch.
Instruments and Controls
Pressing the Cruise Control Master Switch turns the system completely off and erases the previous cruising speed from memory. To use the system again, refer to Using the Cruise Control.
If you use the brake or clutch
pedal to cancel cruise control, the
system retains the previously set
cruising speed. To return to that
speed, accelerate to above 25
mph (40 km/h) and press the
RESUME/accel button until the
CRUISE CONTROL light comes on.
The car will accelerate to the
same cruising speed as before.
If you cancel cruise control by pressing the SET and RESUME BUTTONS at the same time, the previously set cruising speed is erased. To use the cruise control, accelerate to the desired cruising speed and press the SET/decel button.
Steering Wheel Controls
RESUME/ accel
SET/ decel
When you tap the brake or clutch pedal (manual transmission cars), or press the SET and RESUME buttons at the same time, the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out and the car will begin to slow down. You can use the accelerator pedal in the normal way.
Instruments and Controls
Steering Wheel Controls, Keys and Locks
Horn
HORN BUTTONS
Keys
KEY NUMBER PLATE
VALET KEY MASTER KEY
Press either of the buttons on the steering wheel spokes to sound the horn.
Your car comes with two kinds of keys: a master key and a valet key. The master key fits all locks on your car:
Ignition Doors Tailgate Tailgate release handle Glove box
The valet key works only in the ignition and the door locks. You can keep the glove box locked when you leave your car and valet key at a parking facility.
You should have received a key number plate with your set of keys. You will need this number if you have to get a lost key replaced. Keep the plate stored in a safe place. When replacing keys, use only Honda-approved key blanks.
Remote Transmitter
On U.S. EX model
Your car also comes with a
remote transmitter; see page 50
for operation.
Instruments and Controls
Keys and Locks
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is on the right side of the steering column. It has four positions:
LOCK (0) ACCESSORY (I) ON (II) START (III)
Instruments and Controls
LOCK (0) — You can insert or remove the key only in this position. When you turn the key from LOCK to ACCESSORY, you may have to turn the steering wheel to release the anti-theft lock. To switch from ACCESSORY to LOCK, you must push the key in slightly as you turn it. If your car has an automatic transmission, it must also be in Park. The anti-theft lock will lock the steering column when you remove the key.
Removing the key from the ignition switch while driving locks the steering. This can cause you to lose control.
Remove the key from the ignition switch only when parked.
ACCESSORY (I) — In this position, you can operate the audio system and cigarette lighter.
ON (II) — This is the normal key position when driving. All features and accessories on the car are usable. Several of the lights on the instrument panel come on as a test when you turn the ignition switch from ACCESSORY to ON (see page 29).
START (III) — Use this position only to start the engine. The switch returns to ON when you let go of the key.
You will hear a reminder beeper if you open either front door with the key in the LOCK or ACCESSORY position. Remove the key to turn it off.
Power Door Locks
MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH
Door Locks
LOCK TAB
Each door has a lock tab on top of the door panel. Push the lock tab down to lock the door, and pull it up to unlock.
To lock the passenger's door when getting out of the car, push the lock tab down and close the door. To lock the driver's door, pull the outside door handle and push the lock tab down. Release the handle; then, close the door.
The master door lock switch allows control of all door locks and the tailgate from the driver's door. Push the master door lock switch down to lock all doors including the tailgate, and pull up to unlock them.
The front doors can be locked and unlocked from the outside with the key.
Keys and Locks
In addition, all doors lock or unlock when you use the key to lock or unlock any door from the outside. To unlock all doors from the driver's door with the key, turn the key clockwise and hold it there for several seconds.
To lock any passenger door without the key, push the lock tab down and close the door.
Instruments and Controls
Keys and Locks
Remote Transmitter EX models
You can lock and unlock your car using the remote transmitter. If you push "Lock," on the transmitter, all doors and the tailgate will lock.
If you push "Unlock" once, only the driver's door will unlock; if you push "Unlock" again, all doors and the tailgate will unlock.
Instruments and Controls
If you use the unlock feature on the remote transmitter and a door or the tailgate is not opened within 20 seconds, all doors and the tailgate will automatically lock. If the key is in the ignition, the remote transmitter will not work.
This device complies with Part 15
of the FCC rules. Operation is
subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may
not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept
any interference received,
including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance should void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Childproof Door Locks
LEVER
The childproof door locks are de- signed to prevent children seated in the rear from accidentally open- ing the rear doors. Each rear door has a lock lever near the edge. With the lever in the LOCK position, the rear doors cannot be opened from the inside regardless of the posi- tion of the lock tab. To open either rear door, pull the lock tab up and use the outside door handle.
Glove Box
Tailgate
Keys and Locks
An open glove box can cause serious injury to your passenger in a crash, even if the passenger is wearing a seat belt.
Always keep the glove box closed while driving.
GLOVE BOX
Open the glove box by pulling the bottom of the handle. Close it with a firm push. Lock or unlock the glove box with the master key.
The glove box light comes on only when the instrument panel lights are on.
Use your key to lock and unlock the tailgate. (For U.S. EX models, your transmitter access will also lock and unlock the tailgate.)
To open the tailgate, pull the handle, and then lift up the tailgate.
Instruments and Controls
Seat Adjustments
Adjust the seat before you start driving.
Front Seat Adjustments
To adjust the seat forward and backward, pull up on the lever under the seat cushion's front edge. Move the seat to the desired position, and release the lever. Try to move the seat to make sure it is locked in position.
Instruments and Controls
Reclining the seat-back can decrease the protection you get from your seat belt in a crash.
You can slide under the seat belt and be seriously injured.
Adjust the seat-back to an upright position, and sit well back in the seat.
To change the angle of the seat- back, pull up on the lever on the outside of the seat bottom. Move the seat-back to the desired position, and release the lever. Let the seat-back latch in the new position.
Driver's Seat Power Height Adjustment
Driver's Lumbar Support
Head Restraints
Seat Adjustments
On U.S. EX models The height of your driver's seat is power adjustable. Pull up on the switch to raise the seat. Push it down to lower the seat.
On U.S. EX models Vary the lumbar support by moving the lever on the right side of the seat-back. Pivot the lever forward until it stops, then let it return. Doing this several times adjusts the lumbar support through its full range.
RELEASE BUTTON
The front head restraints help protect you and your passenger from whiplash and other injuries. They are most effective when you adjust them so the top of the restraint is even with the top of your ears.
Instruments and Controls
Folding Rear Seat
Rear Seat Armrest On U.S. EX models
The back of the rear seats folds down to provide more cargo space.
Pull up the release button at the top of the seat-back, and move the seat-back forward.
The rear seat armrest is located at the center of the rear seat. Pivot it down to use it.
Seat Adjustments
The front head restraints adjust for height. You need both hands to adjust the restraint. Do not attempt to adjust it while driving. To raise it, pull upward. To lower the restraint, press the release button and push the restraint down.
To remove a head restraint for cleaning or repair, pull it up as far as it will go. Press the release button and pull the restraint out of the seat-back.
Driving your car without head restraints can lead to serious injury to you and your passenger in a crash.
Make sure the head restraints are in place and adjusted properly before driving.
Instruments and Controls
Power Windows Your car's windows are electrically powered. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) to raise or lower a window.
Each door has a switch that controls its window. To open the window, push the switch down and hold it. Release the switch when you want the window to stop. Close the window by pushing the switch up and holding it. The rear windows open only halfway.
DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH