1994 Honda Accord Wagon Owners Manual

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

The driver's armrest has a master power window control panel. To open the passenger's window, push down on the appropriate switch and hold it down until the window reaches the desired position. To close the window, push up on the window switch. Release the switch when the window gets to the position you want.

Power Windows

The master control panel also contains these extra features:

AUTO - To open the driver's window fully, push the window switch firmly down and release it. The window automatically goes all the way down. To stop the window from going all the way down, push the window switch up briefly.

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

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

Instruments and Controls

The power window system has a key-off delay function. The windows will still operate for up to 10 minutes after you turn off the ignition. Opening either front door cancels the delay function. You must turn the ignition ON (II) again before you can raise or lower the windows.

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

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

Power Windows

MAIN SWITCH

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

Instruments and Controls

Moonroof

Moonroof

The moonroof has a key-off delay. You can still open and close the moonroof for up to 10 minutes after you turn off the ignition. The key-off delay cancels as soon as you open either front door. You must then turn the ignition ON (II) for the moonroof to operate.

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

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

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

MOONROOF SWITCH

On U.S. EX models Use the switches on the dash- board under the left vent to operate the moonroof. The ignition must be ON (II). Push and hold the switch to open the moonroof. Release the switch when the moonroof reaches the desired position. To close the moonroof, press and hold the

switch.

Instruments and Controls

Sunshade, Mirrors

Sunshade

Mirrors

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

On U.S. EX models You can slide the sunshade to any position when the moonroof is closed. The sunshade slides open with the moonroof. You must close the sunshade manually.

TAB

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

Instruments and Controls

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH

Power Mirrors

Adjust the outside mirrors with the adjustment switch on the driver's door armrest.

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

2. Move the selector switch to L

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

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

3. Push the appropriate edge of

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

4. When you finish, move the

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

The outside mirror on the passenger's side has curved glass. Objects look farther away than they are. Use this mirror to get a "wide view." Don't use it to judge the distance of things behind you.

Instruments and Controls

Parking Brake, Digital Clock

Parking Brake

NOTICE

Digital Clock

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

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up slightly, push the button, and lower the lever. The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released (see page 31). If you try to drive the car without releasing the parking brake, the ABS cannot work properly.

Instruments and Controls

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

H M RESET

2. Swing down the front cover of

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

3. Press and hold the H button

until the hour advances to the desired time.

4. Press and hold the M button until the minutes advance to the desired time.

To set the clock: 1. Turn the ignition switch

ON (II) to display the time.

Digital Clock

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

For example:

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

Instruments and Controls

Beverage Holder, Console Compartment

Beverage Holder

Console Compartment

PUSH

To open the beverage holder, push on the top. The beverage holder lid is spring-loaded and will pop open. To close it, push it down until it latches.

Use the beverage holder only when the car is parked. If you place cups in the holder while driving, the liquid may spill when you go over bumps or around corners.

STRAP

To open the console compartment, pull up the front edge of the lid.

A strap is provided under the console cover to hold your garage door opener.

Be careful when you are using the beverage holder. Spilled liquids can damage the upholstery, carpeting, and electrical components in the interior. If the liquid is very hot, it can scald you or your passengers.

Instruments and Controls

Coin Box

Vanity Mirror

Cigarette Lighter

Coin Box, Vanity Mirror, Cigarette Lighter

COIN BOX

To open the coin box, pull the upper edge. Close it with a firm push.

To use the vanity mirror, pull down the passenger's sun visor and swing down the cover.

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

The driver's sun visor also has a vanity mirror.

CIGARETTE LIGHTER

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

Instruments and Controls

Ashtrays

Ashtrays

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

ASHTRAY

Open the front ashtray by swinging the lid down. Push it in to close it.

To remove the ashtray for empty- ing, open the lid, and then pull the ashtray straight out.

ASHTRAY

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

Instruments and Controls

Interior Light

Courtesy Lights

IGNITION SWITCH LIGHT

Interior Light, Courtesy Lights

OFF

ON

DOOR ACTIVITATED

DOOR LIGHT

The interior light has a three- position switch. In the OFF (forward) position, the light does not come on. In the center position, the interior light comes on when you open either front door. In the ON (rearward) position, the interior light stays on continuously.

Each front and rear door has a courtesy light. This light (with the front interior light switch in the center position) comes on when you open either front door.

Your car also has a courtesy light in the ignition switch. This light comes on when you open the driver's door. It remains on for several seconds after the door is closed.

Instruments and Controls

Comfort and Convenience Features

Caring for Cassettes Caring for the

. . . . .. 81

Cassette Player . . . . . . .. 81

Operating the

CD Player/Changer . . . .. 82
CD Error Indications . . . . .. 85
Anti-Theft Feature . . . . . . .. 86

The heating/air conditioning system in your car provides a comfortable driving environment in all weather conditions.

The standard audio system is very versatile. To get the most benefit from this system, read its description in this manual.

The anti-theft feature on your radio disables the system. To get the system working again you must enter a code number as described in this manual.

Heating and Cooling . . . . . . . . .. 68
What Each Control Does .. 70
How to Use the System . . .. 71

Controlling Air

Flow Direction . . . . . . .. 71
Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . .. 71
To Cool With A/C . . . . . .. 72
To Heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 73
To Heat and Dehumidify

With Air Conditioning . 73
To Defog and Defrost.... 74
To Turn Everything Off . . .. 74
Audio S y s t e m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 75

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo

Audio System . . . . . . . . .. 75
Operating the Radio . . . . .. 75
Finding the Radio Station .. 76
Presetting . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 76
Adjusting the Sound . . . . .. 77
Radio Frequencies . . . . . . .. 78
Operating the

Cassette Player . . . . . . .. 79
Cassette Search Functions . 80

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

This system has full heating, ventilation, and air conditioning capabilities. You can adjust the system controls to mix these in various combinations. The air flows into the interior at three possible levels that you can select.

CENTER VENT

SIDE VENT

The direction of air flow from the vents in the center and each side of the dashboard is adjustable. Move the tab in the center of each vent up and down and side to side.

Each side vent can be opened and closed with the dials next to it.

The heating and cooling system draws air through the exterior vents at the bottom of the wind- shield. Keep these vents clear of leaves and other debris.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

What Each Control Does

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

Temperature Control Dial Turning this dial clockwise increases the temperature of air flowing from the system.

Mode Buttons These buttons control the direction of air flow. The indicator light shows which button is controlling air flow.

Air Conditioning (A/C) Switch This switch turns the air conditioner ON and OFF. The indicator in the switch lights when the A/C is ON.

RECIRCULATION/ FRESH AIR BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTONS

Recirculation/Fresh Air Button This button controls the source of air going into the system. In Recirculation mode, the interior air recycles through the system. In Fresh Air mode, air comes from outside the car.

Comfort and Convenience Features

How to Use the System This section covers the best way to use the system for ventilation, cooling, dehumidifying, defrosting and heating. In most cases, the mode and air source selections are only recommendations. You may prefer different settings.

mode to heat or cool

Use the interior more quickly, or to keep out smoke and dust. Leaving the system in recirculation mode with the air conditioning off can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to the interior reaches a comfortable temperature or the outside smoky, dusty condition clears.

mode as soon as

Heating and Cooling

Ventilation Your car has a flow-through ventilation system. Air enters the car through vents in front of the windshield. It circulates through the interior and then exits through vents near the rear window. This system provides fresh air even when the car is standing still. To bring in outside air, press the button. Set the fan at a comfortable speed.

The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning system to provide hot and cold air. The heater uses engine coolant to warm the air. If the engine is cold, it will be several minutes before you feel warm air circulating.

Air conditioning does not depend on engine temperature. It can produce cold air almost immediately.

Controlling Air Flow Direction Air flows into the interior at three levels: Toward the floor through the dash vents and toward the windshield and side windows You select the air flow level or combination of levels with the five mode buttons.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

To Cool With A/C To operate the air conditioning system, press the air conditioning switch. Set the fan to the desired speed. You can also use the mode button to direct air out of the dash and heater vents.

To cool the interior down rapidly after the car has been sitting in the sun:

1. Start the engine.

2. Turn on the A/C by pressing

the switch.

3. Set the fan to maximum

speed.

4. Open the windows partially.

Select

and

AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTONS

When the interior reaches a comfortable temperature, close the windows and set the system for cooling as described above.

Air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the coolant temperature gauge (see page 36) when using the A/C in heavy traffic or driving up long hills. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the air conditioning until the gauge reads normally.

Comfort and Convenience Features

To Heat To warm the interior. 1. Start the engine.

Heating and Cooling

2. Select 3. Switch the fan to the desired

and

speed.

4. Adjust the warmth of the air with the temperature control lever.

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

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning.

3. Select

and any desired

mode button.

continued

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTONS

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

4. Adjust the temperature control

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

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

To Defog and Defrost To remove fog from the inside of the windows: 1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select 4. Adjust the temperature control

and

lever so the airflow from the defroster vents feels warm.

5. Turn on the rear window

defogger to help clear the rear window.

To remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield and side windows after the car has been sitting out in cold weather: 1. Start the engine. 2. Select and 3. Switch the fan and temperature

controls to maximum.

To rapidly remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield (on very cold days), first select

. Once the windshield is

to avoid fogging

clear, select the windows.

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

air to the windshield defroster vents.

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

To Turn Everything Off To shut off the system temporarily, turn the fan control and temperature control dials all the way off.

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

U.S.: EX

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

STEREO INDICATOR

Audio System

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio System Your Honda audio system is easy to use and will give clear AM/FM reception. The preset buttons allow you to select six stations on AM and 12 stations on FM.

The cassette system uses Dolby B* noise reduction to give excellent sound reproduction. The system also senses when a metal or a chromium dioxide (CrO adjusts accordingly.

) tape is being played and

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

*Dolby noise reduction manufac- tured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpora- tion. "Dolby" and the symbol are trademarks of Dolby Labora- tories Licensing Corporation.

On U.S. EX model The anti-theft feature disables the system if it is disconnected from the car's battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number. See page 86.

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on by turning the ON/OFF/VOL knob clockwise. The radio comes on and displays the frequency of the station it was last tuned to.

Adjust the volume by turning the ON/OFF/VOL knob.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Select the band you want to listen to by pressing the AM or FM1/ FM2 button. You will see the selected band and the frequency in the display.

STEREO will be displayed next to the frequency if the station is broadcasting in FM stereo. The AM stereo feature is not available.

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

The TUNE function lets you find a desired frequency. Push the TUNE/SEEK switch up to change to a higher frequency and down to change to a lower frequency.

To change the frequency up or down a single increment, push and release the TUNE/SEEK switch.

U.S.: EX

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

STEREO INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

The SEEK function searches the band for a station with a strong signal. Depending on which way you push the TUNE/SEEK switch, the system searches up or down from the current frequency. Push the switch until you hear a beep, and then release it. The system searches until it finds a station with a strong signal and then stops.

Presetting The preset buttons allow you to store radio frequencies for later selection. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two on the FM band. To store a frequency:

1. Select the desired band, AM

or FM. FM1 and FM2 allow you to store two frequencies with each Preset button.

Comfort and Convenience Features

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK

function to tune the radio to a desired station.

3. Pick the Preset button you want for that station. Press the button and hold it until you hear a beep. The light in the indicator will come on and the station selected will show in the display.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total of six stations on AM and 12 on FM.

Once that station's frequency is stored, simply press and release the proper Preset button to tune to it. If you want to change any Preset button's selection, store another frequency as described. The frequencies you preset will be lost if your car's battery goes dead or is disconnected.

Audio System

FADER CONTROL

BALANCE CONTROL

BASS CONTROL

TREBLE CONTROL

Adjust the side-to-side sound balance with the knob. Push the knob back in when you are done.

Adjusting the Sound Use the Balance and Fader controls to adjust the sound "direction." The Balance control moves sound left to right. The Fader control moves it front to back.

To use either control, push on the knob to get it to pop out. Adjust the front-to-back sound with the outside ring.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

The illumination for the radio controls comes on with the instrument panel lights, even if the radio is off. You can use the Balance control to turn off the radio panel illumination even with the radio on. Push the control knob so it pops out, then pull it out slightly further. Check this control if the control panel lights do not come on with the instrument panel lights.

Use the Bass and Treble controls to adjust the tone quality to your liking. Push on the knob to get the controls to pop out. Adjust the bass level with the outer ring and the treble level with the knob.

When finished, push the knobs back in so there is less chance of accidentally changing your settings.

U.S.: EX

STEREO INDICATOR

AM/FM BUTTON

Radio Frequencies Your Honda's radio can tune in all frequencies in both the AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequencies:

AM band 530 to 1710 kilohertz FM band 87.7 to 107.9 megahertz

Radio stations on the AM band are assigned frequencies at least 10 kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550). Those on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0.2
megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3).

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

Operating the Cassette Player Turn the system ON. Insert the cassette into the slot with the tape opening to the right. Push the cassette in most of the way. The drive will pull it in the rest of the way and begin to play.

or will light to show

The you which side of the cassette is playing. The you inserted facing upward is now playing. To play the other side of the tape, press the PROG button.

indicates the side

U.S.: EX

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

Audio System

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

EJECT BUTTONS

PROG BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

The system also has an auto- reverse feature. It will automati- cally reverse direction when it reaches the end of the cassette.

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

button.

To remove the cassette from the drive, press one of the EJECT but- tons (AM/CD or FM1/FM2). If the AM/CD button is pushed, the sys- tem returns to the function last selected with that button. If the FM1/FM2 button is pushed, the system returns to the FM band last selected. A cassette automatically ejects whenever you turn off the system or the ignition switch.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Cassette Search Functions Once a cassette is playing, you can use the FF, REW, or TMS, or REPEAT function to look for desired songs or passages.

To rewind the tape, push the FF/REW/TMS switch down and then release it. You will see REW in the display. To fast forward a tape, push the switch up and then release it. You will see FF in the display. To stop rewind or fast forward, press the PLAY button. If the system reaches the end of the cassette while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.

Press the REPEAT button to replay the current passage. You will see RPT in the display. When the system reaches the end of the song or passage that is being played, it automatically goes to rewind.

U.S.: EX

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

EJECT BUTTONS

PROG BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

When it senses the beginning of that passage, it goes back to play. The system will continue repeating this passage until you turn off REPEAT by pressing the button again.

The TMS function lets you skip to the beginning of a song or other passage. The tape skips forward or backward, depending on which direction you push the FF/REW/TMS switch.

Activate TMS by pushing the FF/REW/TMS switch and holding it until you hear a beep. If you push the switch down, you will see REW blinking in the display as the tape rewinds. If you push the switch up, you will see FF blinking in the display as the tape fast forwards. When the system senses a silent period on the tape, it goes back to PLAY mode.

Comfort and Convenience Features

The REPEAT and TMS functions use silent periods on the tape to find the end of a selection. These features may not work satisfactorily on tapes that have almost no gap between songs, a high noise level between songs, or silent periods in the middle of songs.

Caring for the Cassette Player

CLEAN INDICATOR

The cassette drive picks up dirt and oxides whenever you play a tape. This builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the cassette drive after every 30 hours of use. Your Honda dealer has a cleaning kit available for this purpose.

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

Audio System

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

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

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

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

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

Operating the CD Player or CD Changer (Optional) Your dealer has a Honda in-dash Compact Disc player or a trunk-mounted CD changer available for your car.

The trunk-mounted changer holds up to six discs, providing several hours of continuous program- ming. Load the CDs in the changer's magazine and load the magazine into the changer ac- cording to the instructions that came with the changer unit.

To operate the CD player or CD changer, the ignition key must be in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position. If you were listening to a cassette tape, eject it before lis- tening to a CD. You operate the CD player and changer with the same controls used for the radio.

CD Player Insert the disc in the player. Push the CD button on the player; "CD" will show in the display, and the disc will start to play.

CD Changer Push the CD button on the radio; the display will show "CD," and the track last listened to will play. When that disc ends, the next disc in the magazine is loaded and played.

After disc 6 has played completely, the system will return to disc 1. To make your own disc selection, push one of the corresponding preset buttons. Your selection will appear in the display and start playing.

Comfort and Convenience Features

You can use the TUNE/SEEK switch while a disc is playing to select passages and change tracks. To move rapidly forward within a track, push up and hold the TUNE/SEEK switch. Push down and hold the switch to move rapidly backward within a track. You will hear a beep a half second after you push the switch up or down. Keep pushing the switch until you think the track has advanced or returned to the desired position. The disc will start playing when you release the switch.

If you push the TUNE/SEEK switch up and release it before you hear a beep, the system will skip forward to the beginning of the next track on the CD. It will skip backward to the beginning of the current track if you push the switch down and release it.

U.S.: EX

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

CASSETTE SLOT

Audio System

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

If you push the REPEAT button on the U.S. LX or Canada EX models, or the A.SELECT/REPEAT button on the U.S. EX model, the system will continuously play the track you are listening to. You will see RPT in the display. Push the switch again to turn off the REPEAT mode.

On U.S. EX models You can get the CD player/changer to randomly select tracks by pressing the A.SELECT/REPEAT button. You will see A.SELECT in the display. With this active, the system selects and plays the tracks randomly, rather than sequentially on the disc in the player or on each disc in the changer.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

When A.SELECT is used with the disc changer unit, the system plays all the tracks randomly on that disc; it loads the next disc and plays randomly again. The system continues to select and play tracks randomly on each of the six discs until you press the A.SELECT/REPEAT button again.

To turn on the random play mode while the system is in the REPEAT mode, turn off the REPEAT mode first by pressing the A.SELECT/REPEAT button. Then, press the button until A.SELECT is displayed.

If you change modes to radio or tape while a CD is playing, and then change back to CD mode, the same disc and track will play. If you turn off the audio system while a CD is playing, either with the ON/OFF/VOL knob or by turning off the ignition, the system will begin at the same disc and track when you turn it back on.

If you select an empty slot in the disc changer's magazine, the system will select and play the first track of the next disc in the magazine.

To return to the radio function, press either the AM/CD button or the FM1/FM2 button. If the AM/CD button is pushed, the system will return to the AM band. If the FM1/FM2 button is pushed, the system will return to the FM band you last listened to.

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

Audio System

Anti-Theft Feature On U.S. EX models Your car's audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, the user must enter a specific five-digit code in the Preset buttons. Because many combinations are possible using five digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received two copies of a card that lists your audio system's code number and serial number. It is best to store one of these cards in a safe place at home, and to keep the other in your wallet or purse. In addition, you should write the audio system's serial number in this Owner's Manual. If you should happen to lose both cards, you must obtain the code number by having your Honda dealer contact

American Honda. To do this, he will need the system's serial number.

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

Before Driving

Break-in Period . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 88
Gasoline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 88
. . . . . . .. 88

Oxygenated Fuels Driving in Foreign

Countries . . . . . . . . . . . .. 89
Service Station Procedures . .. 90
Filling the Fuel Tank . . . . .. 90
Opening the Hood . . . . . . .. 91
Oil Check . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 92
Engine Coolant Check . .. 93
Fuel Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 94
Vehicle Condition . . . . . . . .. 94
Driving Habits . . . . . . . . . . .. 94
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 95
Loading Cargo . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 96
Cargo Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 96
Storage Compartments . . .. 97
Cargo Area

Tonneau Cover . . . . . . .. 97

Before Driving

Break-in Period, Gasoline

Break-in Period Help assure your car's future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you drive during the first 600 miles (1,000 km). During this period: Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration. If you need to add oil, use the engine oil recommended in this Owner's Manual. Avoid hard braking. New brakes need to be broken-in by moderate use for the first 200 miles (300 km).

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

Gasoline Your Honda is designed to operate most effectively on unleaded gasoline. Use an unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 86 or higher. Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a persistent, heavy metallic rapping noise in the engine that can lead to mechanical damage.

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

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

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

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

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

Before Driving

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

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

The following are the EPA-approved percentages of oxygenates:

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

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

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

Gas Station Information

Driving in Foreign Countries Using any type of leaded gasoline in your Honda will affect performance and damage its emission controls. Unleaded gasoline may not be available in other countries. If you are planning to take your car outside the U.S. or Canada, write to Honda at the address shown for information about any modifications your car may need. Be sure to include the year and model of your car.

U.S. Owners: American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Consumer Affairs 1919 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90501-2746

Canadian Owners: Honda Canada Inc. 715 Milner Ave. Scarborough, Ontario M1B 2K8

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Filling the Fuel Tank

Pull.

1. The fuel fill is on the driver's side of the car. Park with that side closest to the service station pumps.

2. Open the fuel fill door by

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

Before Driving

Handling gasoline improperly can cause it to ignite or explode, causing you to be seriously or fatally injured.

Always put out cigarettes and other smoking materials, and keep all sparks and open flames away when you are around gasoline.

3. Remove the fuel fill cap

slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes.

4. Stop filling the tank after the

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

5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on;

tighten it until it clicks.

6. Push the fuel fill door closed

until it latches.

FUEL FILL CAP

Opening the Hood

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

Service Station Procedures

SUPPORT ROD

1. Shift to Park or Neutral, and

set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle located under the left lower corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.

LATCH

2. Standing in front of the car, put your fingers under the front edge of the hood to the right of center. Slide your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle to the left until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.

3. Pull the support rod out of its

clip, and insert the end into the hole on the left side of the hood.

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

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Oil Check

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

1. Remove the dipstick (orange

handle).

Before Driving

2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean

cloth or paper towel.

3.

Insert it all the way back in its tube.

Engine Coolant Check

RESERVE TANK

Service Station Procedures

Refer to Periodic Checks on page 125 for information on checking other items in your Honda.

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

4. Remove the dipstick again,

and check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks. If it is near or below the lower mark, see page 127 for information on the proper oil and how to add it.

MAX

MIN

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding Coolant on page 132
for information on adding the proper coolant.

Before Driving

Driving Habits You can improve fuel economy by driving moderately. Rapid acceleration, cornering, and hard braking use more fuel.

Always drive in the highest gear that allows the engine to run and accelerate smoothly.

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

A cold engine uses more fuel than a warm engine. It is not necessary to "warm-up" a cold engine by letting it idle for a long time. You can drive away within 30 seconds, no matter how cold it is outside. The engine will warm up faster, and you get better fuel economy. To cut down on the number of "cold starts," try to combine several short trips into one.

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

Fuel Economy

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

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

An important part of that maintenance is the Periodic Checks (see page 125). For example an underinflated tire causes more "rolling resistance," which uses fuel. It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly. In winter the build-up of snow on your car's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

Before Driving

Your Honda dealer has many Genuine Honda Accessories that allow you to personalize your car. Some of these are audio systems, alloy wheels, air conditioning, and color-coordinated carpet floor mats. These accessories have all been approved for installation and use on your car, and they are covered by warranty.

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

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

Accessories

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

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

Before Driving

Loading Cargo

The maximum load you can carry in your Honda is 950 Ib (430 kg). It includes the total weight of all passengers and their belongings, and any accessories. This 950 Ib (430 kg) figure is shown as the Vehicle Capacity Weight on the tire information label attached to the driver's side doorjamb.

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Figure the total "occupant weight" you will be transporting. To do this, multiply the number of people (driver and all passengers) by 150 Ib (70 kg). Subtract this number from the Vehicle Capacity Weight (950 lb/430 kg). If you are towing a trailer, subtract the tongue weight. See Towing a Trailer on page 115.

Before Driving

This final number is the total weight of cargo you can load in or on the car. With five occupants (driver and four passengers), the maximum recommended weight for cargo is 200 Ib (90 kg).

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

If you must carry large objects that prevent you from closing the tailgate, be aware that exhaust gas can enter the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 25.

Cargo Area