1995 Honda Accord Wagon Owners Manual

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.

Keys and Locks

push the lock tab down. Release the handle; then close the door.

including the tailgate, and pull up to unlock them.

Power Door Locks 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.

MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

Door Locks

LOCK TAB

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

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

The front doors can be locked and unlocked from the outside with the key.

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.

Remote Transmitter EX models You can lock and unlock your car using the remote transmitter. If

continued

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks

you push "Lock," on the transmitter, all doors and the tailgate will lock.

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 The childproof door locks are designed to prevent children seated in the rear from acciden- tally opening the rear doors. Each

One push on "Unlock" unlocks the driver's door and turns on the interior light; if you push "Unlock" again, all doors and the tailgate will unlock.

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

Instruments and Controls

rear door has a lock lever near the edge. With the lever in the LOCK position, the rear doors cannot be opened from the in- side regardless of the position of the lock tab. To open either rear door, pull the lock tab up and use the outside door handle.

LEVER

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.

GLOVE BOX

The glove box light comes on only when the instrument panel lights are on.

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.

Tailgate Use your key to lock and unlock the tailgate. (For U.S. EX models, your remote transmitter will also lock and unlock the tailgate.)

Keys and Locks

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.

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.

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.

Instruments and Controls

Driver's Seat Power Height Adjustment 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.

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.

Seat Adjustments

restraint is even with the top of your ears.

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.

Driver's Lumbar Support On U.S. EX models Vary the lumbar support by moving the lever on the right

Head Restraints 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

RELEASE BUTTON

continued

Instruments and Controls

Seat Adjustments, Power Windows

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.

Folding Rear Seat The backs of the rear seats fold down to provide more cargo space.

Instruments and Controls

Pull up the release button at the top of the seat-back, and move the seat-back forward.

Pivot it down to use it.

Rear Seat Armrest On U.S. EX models The rear seat armrest is located at the center of the rear seat.

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.

The master control panel also contains these extra features:

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.

DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH

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.

Power Windows

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.

MAIN SWITCH

continued

Instruments and Controls

Power Windows, Moonroof

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.

Instruments and Controls

Moonroof 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 open the moonroof. Release the switch when the moonroof reaches the desired position. To close the moonroof, press and hold the

switch to

switch.

MOONROOF SWITCH

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.

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

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

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.

Mirrors, Power Mirrors

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

3. Push the appropriate edge of

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

SELECTOR SWITCH

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

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

1. Turn the ignition switch ON

(II).

2. Move the selector switch to

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

TAB

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

4. When you finish, move the

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

Instruments and Controls

Parking Brake, Digital Clock

Parking Brake 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 30). If you try to drive the car without releasing the parking brake, the ABS cannot work properly.

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

Digital Clock The digital clock displays the time with the ignition switch ON (II). To see the time with the ignition off, press and hold the front cover under the clock.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

Instruments and Controls

To set the clock: 1. Turn the ignition switch

ON (II) to display the time.

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.

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.

Beverage Holder To open the beverage holder, push on the top. The beverage holder lid is spring-loaded and

Digital Clock, Beverage Holder

will pop open. To close it, push it down until it latches.

upholstery, carpeting, and electrical components in the interior. If the liquid is very hot, it can scald you or your passengers.

PUSH

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.

Be careful when you are using the beverage holder. Spilled liquids can damage the

Instruments and Controls

Console Compartment, Coin Box, Cigarette Lighter

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

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

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.

STRAP

COIN BOX

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

CIGARETTE LIGHTER

Instruments and Controls

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

remove the ashtray for emptying, open it, and then lift up and out.

ASHTRAY

To remove the ashtray for emptying, open the lid, and then pull the ashtray straight out.

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

ASHTRAY

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

Ashtrays, Interior Light

Interior 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.

ON

DOOR ACTIVATED

Instruments and Controls

Courtesy Lights

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.

IGNITION SWITCH LIGHT

DOOR LIGHT

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

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.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Operating the CD Player/Changer . . . . . . . .. 72
CD Error Indications . . . . .. 74
Anti-Theft Feature . . . . . . .. 75

Heating and Cooling . . . . . . . .. 60
What Each Control Does .. 62
How to Use the System . . .. 62

Controlling Air Flow Direction . . . . . . .. 63
Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . .. 63
To Cool With A / C . . . . .. 63
To Heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 64
To Heat and Dehumidify

with Air Conditioning .. 64
To Defog and Defrost . .. 65
To Turn Everything Off . . .. 65
Audio System. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 66

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo

Audio System . . . . . . . . . .. 66
Operating the Radio . . . . .. 66
Finding the Radio Station .. 67
Presetting Radio Stations . 67
Adjusting the Sound . . . . .. 68
Radio Frequencies . . . . . . .. 69
Operating the

Cassette Player . . . . . . . .. 69
Cassette Search Functions . 70
Caring for the Cassette Player . . . . . . . .. 71

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

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.

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.

CENTER VENT

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

SIDE VENT

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

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

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.

MODE BUTTONS

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.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Use mode to heat or cool 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

mode as soon as the

interior reaches a comfortable temperature or the outside smoky, dusty condition clears.

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.

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.

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 mode button also use the 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.

5. Select

and

When the interior reaches a comfortable temperature, close

continued

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

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 34) 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 normal.

To Heat To warm the interior, do this: 1. Start the engine. 2. Select and 3. Switch the fan to the desired

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. To dehumidify, do this: 1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning.

3. Select

and any desired

mode button.

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).

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

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.

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

and

control 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

clear, select fogging the windows.

to avoid

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.

Comfort and Convenience Features

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.

U.S.: EX

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

STEREO INDICATOR

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

*Dolby noise reduction manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. "Dolby" and the symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

On U.S. EX model The anti-theft feature disables the system if it is disconnected

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

from the car's battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number. See page 75.

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.

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.

Comfort and Convenience Features

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.

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 Radio Stations 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, do this:

1. Select the desired band, AM

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

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK

function to tune the radio to a desired station.

Audio System

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 through 3 to

store a total of six stations on AM and 12 on FM.

Once a 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.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

FADER CONTROL

BALANCE CONTROL

BASS CONTROL

TREBLE CONTROL

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 outer ring.

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

The illumination for the radio controls comes on with the instrument panel lights, even if the radio is off. You can use the

Comfort and Convenience Features

Balance control to turn off the radio panel illumination even with the radio on. Push the control knob so it pops out, and then pull it out slightly farther. 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 knob back in to prevent accidentally changing your settings.

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).

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."

Audio System

U.S.: EX

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

EJECT BUTTONS

PROG BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

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 pulls it in the rest of the way and begins to play.

The which side of the cassette is

lights to show you

or

indicates the

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

The system also has an auto-reverse feature. It automatically reverses direction when it reaches the end of the cassette.

continued

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

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 buttons (AM/CD or FM1/FM2). If the AM/CD button is pushed, the system 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.

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.

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.

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

almost no gap between songs, a high noise level between songs, or silent periods in the middle of songs.

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

CLEAN INDICATOR

PRESET 6
(Press to reset indicator.)

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.

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

Audio System

suddenly stop playing, reverse directions once or twice and then eject. This is normally an indication the tape is wound unevenly. It should play normally after being manually rewound.

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

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

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

Damaged cassettes can jam inside the drive or cause other problems. Do not leave cassettes continued

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

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 programming. Load the CDs in the changer's magazine and load the magazine into the changer according 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 listening 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.

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

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.

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.

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.

Audio System

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

Audio System

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.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

on for one hour before trying again.

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.

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

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 store luggage or packages. The information in this section will help you.

Before Driving

Break-in Period . . . . . . . . . . . .. 78
Gasoline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 78
Oxygenated Fuels . . . . . . .. 78
Driving in Foreign

Countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 79
Service Station Procedures .. 80
Filling the Fuel Tank . . . . .. 80
Opening the Hood . . . . . . .. 81
Oil Check . . . . . . . . . . . .. 82
Engine Coolant Check .. 83
Fuel Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 83
Vehicle Condition . . . . . . . .. 83
Driving Habits . . . . . . . . . . .. 83
Loading Cargo . . . . . . . . . . . .. 84
Cargo A r e a . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 85
Storage Compartments . . .. 85
Cargo Area Tonneau Cover . . . . . . . . .. 85

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 recommendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are replaced.

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

The following are the EPA-approved percentages of oxygenates:

problems. It may also damage metal, rubber, and plastic parts of your fuel system.

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

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.

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

Gasoline

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

3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes.

Filling the Fuel Tank 1. Because the fuel fill cap 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.

Pull.

FUEL FILL CAP

Before Driving

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

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

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.

Service Station Procedures

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 re- leases the hood. Lift the hood.

LATCH

3. Pull the support rod out of its

clip, and insert the end into the hole On the driver's side of the hood.

SUPPORT ROD

6. Push the fuel fill door closed

until it latches.

Opening the Hood 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.

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

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).

2. Wipe the dipstick with a

clean cloth or paper towel.

4. Remove the dipstick again,

and check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

3.

Insert it all the way back in its tube.

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

If it is near or below the lower mark, see page 114 for information on the proper oil and how to add it.

DIPSTICK

Before Driving

Engine Coolant Check Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding Engine Coolant on page 117 for information on adding the proper coolant.

RESERVE TANK

MAX

MIN

Refer to Periodic Checks on page 112 for information on checking other items in your Honda.

Service Station Procedures, Fuel Economy

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 112). 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 buildup of snow on your car's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage

and reduces the chance of corrosion.

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 continued

Before Driving

Fuel Economy, Loading Cargo

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.

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)

Before Driving

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, do this:

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 97.

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 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 24.

Storage Compartments You can store smaller items in any of the three storage compart- ments in the cargo area. Two compartments are on either side of the tire compartment. The third is in the right side panel.

Cargo Area A passenger should never sit in the open cargo area while the car is moving. They should sit in one of the seats and wear their seat belt. With the rear seats folded, the length of the cargo area is 64.5 inches (1,640 mm). The width at the tailgate opening is 43 inches (1,107 mm). The width between the wheelwells is 33 inches (846 mm). The rear opening height is 27 inches (710 mm).

64.5 in.

33 in.

43 in.

27 in.

Cargo Area Tonneau Cover When extended, the tonneau cover conceals your parcels and protects them from direct sunlight. To extend the tonneau cover, pull the cover's leading

Loading Cargo

edge out of its housing, and slip the brackets in the hooks provided at both sides of the tailgate opening.

HOOK

TONNEAU COVER

To retract the cover, slip the brackets out of the hooks, and guide the cover so it rolls back fully into its housing.

NOTICE: Do not store parcels on the tonneau cover. The tonneau cover may break if weight is placed on it.

continued

Before Driving

Loading Cargo

To remove the tonneau cover housing unit, press the release on one side, carefully lift it out of the holder, and rest it on the trim.

Release the other side, then remove the unit. Store the unit in an area where it will not be damaged.

NOTICE If you lift the housing unit more than 6 inches (150 mm) or pull it too far rearward, you may risk damaging the unit.

Before Driving

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions and how to operate the 5-speed manual and automatic transmissions. It also includes important information on your car's braking system and facts you need if you are planning to tow a trailer.

Driving

Preparing to Drive . . . . . . . . .. 88
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . .. 88

Starting in Cold Weather at

High Altitude . . . . . . . . . .. 89

5-Speed Manual

Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . .. 90
Recommended Shift

Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 91
Maximum Speeds . . . . . . . .. 91
Automatic Transmission . . . .. 91

Shift Lever Position

Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 92
Shift Lever Positions . . . . .. 92
Maximum Speeds . . . . . . . .. 94
Shift Lock Release . . . . . . .. 94
The Braking System . . . . . . . .. 95
Brake Wear Indicators . . .. 95
Brake System Design . . . . .. 96
Anti-Lock Brakes . . . . . . . .. 96
Towing a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . .. 97

Driving

Preparing to Drive, Starting the Engine

6. Check the adjustment of the

inside and outside mirrors (see page 53).

7. Check the adjustment of the steering wheel (see page 40).

8. Make sure the doors are

securely closed and locked; 9. Fasten your seat belt. Check

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

10. Turn the ignition ON (II).

Check the indicator lights in the instrument panel.

11. Start the engine. 12. Check the gauges and indicator lights in the instrument panel (see page 29).

Starting the Engine 1. Apply the parking brake. 2. In cold weather, turn off all

electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

3. Manual transmission: Push the clutch pedal all the way down. START (III) does not function unless the clutch pedal is depressed. Automatic transmission: Make sure the shift lever is in Park. Push on the brake pedal.

4. Without touching the

accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. If the engine does not start right away, do not hold the key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds at a

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

1. Make sure all windows,

mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.

2. Check that the hood and

trunk are fully closed.

3. Visually check the tires. If a

tire looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure.

4. Check that any items you may be carrying with you inside are stored properly or fastened down securely.

5. Check the adjustment of the

seat (see page 48).

Driving

5.

time. Pause for at least 10
seconds before trying again. If the engine does not start within 15 seconds or starts but stalls right away, push the accelerator pedal halfway down, and turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

6. If the engine still does not start, push the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting to clear any flooding. As before, keep the ignition key in the START (III) position for no more than 15 seconds. Return to step 5 if the engine does not start. If it starts, lift your foot off the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude (Above 8,000 feet/2,400 Meters) An engine is harder to start in cold weather. The thinner air found at high altitude above