1997 Honda Accord Wagon Owners Manual

describes those features and how to use them. (If you selected an optional audio system, refer to the operating instructions that came with it.)

Heating and Cooling . . . . . .. 62
What Each Control Does . . 63
How to Use the System . .. 64
To Turn Everything Off . .. 67

Audio System . . . . . . . . . . . .. 68
Operating the Radio . . . . .. 68
Adjusting the Sound . . . .. 71
Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 71
Radio Frequencies . . . . . .. 72
Radio Reception . . . . . . .. 72
Operating the Cassette Player . . . . . . . .. 74
Caring for the Cassette Player . . . . . . .. 76
Operating the Optional CD Changer . . . . . . . . . .. 77
CD Player Error Indications 79
Operating the Optional CD Player . . . . . . . . . . . .. 80
CD Player Error Indications 82
Protecting Compact Discs . 83
Theft Protection . . . . . . . . . .. 84

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

Comfort and Convenience Features

Proper use of the heating and cooling system can make the interior dry and comfortable, and keep the windows clear for best visibility.

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 flow.

Air Conditioning (A/C) Switch This switch turns the air conditioning 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 ( ),air from the vehicle's interior is sent through the system again. In fresh air mode ( ) air is brought in from outside the vehicle.

MODE BUTTONS

Mode Buttons These buttons let you select which vents the air flows from.

Air flows from the center

and corner vents in the dashboard.

continued

Comfort and Convenience Features

Vent Controls You can adjust the direction of the air coming from the dashboard vents by moving the tab in the center of each vent up-and-down and side-to-side.

CENTER VENT

The vents in the corners of the dashboard can be opened and closed with the dials next to them.

SIDE VENT

Air flow is divided between the vents in the dashboard and the floor vents.

Air flows from the floor

vents.

Air flow is divided between

the floor vents and the defroster vents at the base of the windshield.

Air flows from the defroster

vents at the base of the windshield.

How to Use the System This section covers how to set up the system controls for ventilation, heating, cooling, dehumidifying, and defrosting.

The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to generate hot and cold air. The

Comfort and Convenience Features

heater uses engine coolant to warm the air. If the engine is cold, it will be several minutes before you feel warm air coming from the system.

RECIRCULATION/ FRESH AIR BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH

The air conditioning does not rely on engine temperature. It is best to leave the system in

mode under almost all

conditions. Keeping the system in mode, particularly with the A/C off, can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to mode when you are driving through smoky or dusty conditions, then switch back to when the condition clears.

mode

The outside air intakes for the heating and cooling system are at the base of the windshield. Keep these clear of leaves and other debris.

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE BUTTONS

Ventilation The flow-through ventilation system draws in outside air, circulates it through the interior, then exhausts it through vents near the rear windows. 1. Turn the temperature control

dial all the way to the left. Make sure the A/C is off.

2. Select 3. Set the fan to the desired

and

speed.

To Cool With A/C 1. Turn on the A/C by pressing

the button. The light above the button should come on.

continued

Comfort and Convenience Features

2. Make sure the temperature

control lever is all the way to the left. 3. Select 4. Set the fan to the desired

and

speed.

If the interior is very warm from being parked in the sun, you can cool it down more rapidly by setting the controls this way: 1. Start the engine. 2. Turn on the A/C by pressing

the button. Make sure the temperature control dial is all the way to the left.

3. Set the fan to maximum

speed.

4. Open the windows partially.

Select

and

When the interior has cooled down to a more comfortable

temperature, close the windows and set the controls as described for normal cooling. Air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge (see page 34) when driving in stop-and-go traffic or climbing a long, steep hill. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the A/C until the gauge reads normally.

To Heat To warm the interior: 1. Start the engine. 2. Select and 3. Set 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, as it cools, removes moisture from the air. 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 4. Adjust the temperature control

and

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

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

You should shut the system completely off for only 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: 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

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 the side window defroster vents. The air flow will get warmer and clear the windows faster as the engine warms up. You can close the side and upper 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's audio system provides clear reception on both AM and FM bands, while the preset buttons allow you to easily select your favorite stations. The cassette system features Dolby B* noise reduction, automatic sensing of chromium- dioxide (CrO autoreverse for continuous play. EX model only — The anti-theft feature will disable 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 84).

) tape, and

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

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on and adjust the volume by turning the ON/VOL knob. The band and frequency that the radio was last tuned to is displayed. To change bands, press the AM or FM button. On the FM band, ST will be displayed if the station is broadcasting in stereo. Stereo reproduction on AM is not available. You can use any of three methods to find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset buttons. TUNE — Use the TUNE/SEEK switch to tune the radio to a desired frequency. Push the TUNE/SEEK switch up to tune to a higher frequency, or push down to tune to a lower frequency. The

frequency numbers will start to change rapidly. Release the switch when the display reaches the desired frequency. To change the frequency in small increments, push and release the TUNE/SEEK switch quickly. SEEK — The SEEK function searches the band for a station with a strong signal. To activate it, push the TUNE/SEEK switch until you hear a beep, then release it. Depending on which direction you pushed the switch, the system scans upward or downward from the current frequency. It stops when it finds a station with a strong signal. Preset — You can store the frequencies of your favorite radio stations in the six preset buttons. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two on the FM band.

Comfort and Convenience Features

To store a frequency: 1. Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each Preset button.

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.

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. The preset frequencies will be lost if your vehicle's battery goes dead or is disconnected.

EX

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

STEREO INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

LX

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

STEREO INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

Comfort and Convenience Features

press any preset button that does not have a station stored. With Auto Select on, you cannot manually store any frequencies in the preset buttons. If you do not like the stations found by Auto Select, you can use the TUNE and SEEK functions to find other stations.

Auto Select does not erase the frequencies that you preset previously. When you return home, turn off Auto Select by pressing the A.SELECT button. The preset buttons will then select the frequencies you originally set.

EX model AUTO SELECT — If you are traveling far from home and can no longer receive the stations you preset, you can use the Auto Select feature to find stations in the local area. To activate Auto Select, press the A.SELECT button. A.SELECT will appear in the display, and the system will go into scan mode for several seconds. It automatically scans both bands, looking for stations with strong signals. It stores the frequencies of six AM stations and twelve FM stations in the preset buttons. You can then use the preset buttons to select those stations. If you are in a remote area, Auto Select may not find six strong AM stations or twelve strong FM stations. If this happens, you will see a "0" displayed when you

Comfort and Convenience Features

Adjusting the Sound Balance/Fader — These two controls adjust the strength of the sound coming from each speaker. The Balance control adjusts the side-to-side strength, while the Fader control adjusts the front-to-back strength. To use these controls, push on the knob to get them to pop out. Adjust the Fader to your liking by turning the outside ring. Adjust the Balance by turning the knob. Push the controls back in when you are done. Treble/Bass — Use these controls to adjust the tone to your liking. Push on the controls to get them to pop out. Adjust the Bass by turning the outer ring. Adjust the Treble by turning the knob. Push the controls back in when you are finished so you cannot change the settings by accidentally bumping them.

FADER CONTROL

BALANCE CONTROL

BASS CONTROL

TREBLE CONTROL

Audio System Lighting You can use the Balance control knob to turn off the illumination of the audio system. Push the Balance/Fader controls so they pop out, then pull the Balance control knob out slightly farther.

Check the Balance control knob if the audio system does not illuminate with the instrument panel lights.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Radio Reception How well your Honda's radio receives stations is dependent on many factors, such as the distance from the station's transmitter, nearby large objects, and atmospheric conditions.

Radio Frequencies Your Honda's radio can receive the complete AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequencies: AM band: 530 to 1,710 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). Stations 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 could display a frequency of 100.9
even though the announcer may identify the station as "FM101."

A radio station's signal gets weaker as you get farther away from its transmitter. If you are listening to an AM station, you will notice the sound volume becoming weaker, and the station drifting in and out. If you are listening to an FM station, you will see the stereo indicator flickering off and on as the signal weakens. Eventually, the stereo indicator will go off and the sound will fade completely as you get out of range of the station's signal.

Driving very near the transmitter of a station that is broadcasting on a frequency close to the frequency of the station you are listening to can also affect your radio's reception. You may temporarily hear both stations, or hear only the station you are close to.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Radio signals, especially on the FM band, are deflected by large objects such as buildings and hills. Your radio then receives both the direct signal from the station's transmitter, and the deflected signal. This causes the sound to distort or flutter. This is a main cause of poor radio reception in city driving.

Radio reception can be affected by atmospheric conditions such as thunderstorms, high humidity, and even sunspots. You may be able to receive a distant radio station one day and not receive it the next day because of a change in conditions.

Electrical interference from passing vehicles and stationary sources can cause temporary reception problems.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Operating the Cassette Player Turn the audio system ON. Make sure the tape opening on the cassette is facing to the right, then insert the cassette most of the way into the slot. The system will pull it in the rest of the way and begin to play.

The tape direction indicator will light to show you which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates the side you inserted facing upward is now playing. If you want to play the other side, press the PROG button.

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

button.

When the system reaches the end of the tape, it will automatically reverse direction and play the other side. If you want to remove the cassette from the drive, press one of the EJECT buttons (AM/CD or FM1/FM2).

The system will automatically eject the cassette whenever you turn off the system or the ignition switch.

Tape Search Functions With a cassette playing, you can use the FF, REW, TMS, or REPEAT functions to find a desired program.

FF/REW — Push down the FF/REW/TMS switch to rewind the tape rapidly. Push the switch up to fast forward. Press the

PLAY button to take the system out of rewind or fast forward. If the system reaches the end of the tape while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.

TMS — The Tape Music Search function allows you to find the beginning of a song or passage. To activate TMS, press the TMS button. The light in the button will remain on as a reminder that it is activated. Then press FF or REW to move the tape forward or backward. When the system reaches the beginning of the next song or passage (FF), or the beginning of the current one (REW), it goes back to PLAY mode. Deactivate TMS by pressing the TMS button again.

Comfort and Convenience Features

REPEAT — The Repeat function continuously replays the current song or passage. Press the REPEAT button to activate it; you will see RPT displayed as a reminder. When the system reaches the end of the song or passage currently playing, it will automatically go into rewind. When it senses the beginning of the same song or passage, the system returns to PLAY mode. It will continue to repeat this same program until you deactivate REPEAT by pressing the button again. The TMS and REPEAT functions use silent periods on the tape to find the end of a song or passage. These features may not work to your satisfaction if there is almost no gap between selections, a high noise level between selections, or a silent period in the middle of a selection.

EX

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

EJECT BUTTONS

PLAY BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

PROGRAM BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

LX

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

EJECT BUTTONS

PLAY BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

PROGRAM BUTTON DOLBY BUTTON

Comfort and Convenience Features

Caring for the Cassette Player The cassette player picks up dirt and oxides whenever you play a tape. This contamination 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. If you do not clean the cassette drive regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the deposits with a normal cleaning kit. The player automatically ejects cassettes that do not play properly. 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 after the tape is manually rewound. Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes. Cassettes longer than that use thinner tape that may break or jam the drive. Look at the cassette before you insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning a hub with a pencil or your finger. If the label is peeling off, remove it from the cassette or it could cause the cassette to jam in the player. Never try to insert a warped or damaged cassette in the player. Do not leave cassettes sitting where they will be exposed to direct sunlight, high heat, or high 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

Comfort and Convenience Features

temperature before inserting it in the player.

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 in the tape operation mode. Hold the button until you hear a beep and the CLEAN indicator goes out.

CLEAN INDICATOR

PRESET 6
(Press to reset indicator.)

Operating the Optional CD Changer A Compact Disc changer is available through your dealer. It holds up to six discs, providing several hours of continuous entertainment. You operate the CD changer with the same controls used for the radio and cassette player.

Your dealer also has an accessory in-dash single CD player available that is operated by the radio controls. To operate this unit, use the instructions (except for those relating to multiple discs) in this section.

Using the instructions that came with the changer, load the desired CDs in the magazine, and load the magazine in the changer.

To operate the CD changer, the ignition must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) and the audio system must be on. If you are listening to a cassette, eject it.

When that disc ends, the next disc in the magazine is loaded and played. After the last disc finishes, the system returns to disc 1.

Press the CD button until "CD" appears in the display. The system will start to play the first track of the first disc in the magazine.

To select a different disc, press the appropriate preset button (1-6). If you select an empty slot in the magazine, the changer will,

EX

CD BUTTON

AUTO SELECT LIGHT

continued

REPEAT LIGHT

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

A. SELECT/REPEAT BUTTON

Comfort and Convenience Features

after finding that slot empty, try to load the CD in the next slot. This continues until it finds a CD to load and play.

You can use the TUNE/SEEK switch to select tracks within a disc. If you push and release the TUNE/SEEK switch, the system will move to the beginning of a track. Push the switch up to move to the beginning of the next track, and push the switch down to move to the beginning of the current track.

If you push and hold the TUNE/SEEK switch, you will hear a beep and the system will continue to move across tracks. Release the switch when you think it has reached the desired place on the disc.

REPEAT — When you activate the Repeat feature by pressing the REPEAT button, the system continuously replays the current track. You will see RPT in the display as a reminder. Press the REPEAT button again to turn it off.

If the system is in Repeat mode, you must turn it off by pressing A.SELECT/REPEAT before you can select Random Play. Then press and hold the button again until you see A.SELECT displayed.

EX model only — RANDOM PLAY — This feature, when activated, plays the tracks on a CD in random order, rather than in the order they are recorded on the CD. To activate Random Play, press and hold the A.SELECT/REPEAT button until you see A.SELECT in the display. The system will then select and play tracks randomly on the current disc. When all tracks on that disc have been played, the next disc is loaded and played randomly. This continues until you deactivate Random Play by pressing A.SELECT/REPEAT again.

To take the system out of CD mode, press the AM or FM button or insert a cassette in the player. When you return to CD mode, play will continue at the same disc and track.

If you turn the system off while a CD is playing, either with the ON-OFF/VOL knob or the ignition switch, play will continue at the same disc and track when you turn it back on.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Optional CD Changer Error Indications If you see an error indication in the display while in operating the CD changer, 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

Operating the Optional CD Player You operate the CD player with the same controls used for the radio.

With the system on, insert the disc into the CD slot. Push the disc in halfway, the drive will pull it in the rest of the way and begin to play. The number of the track that is playing is shown in the display.

You can also play 3-inch (8-cm) discs without using an adapter ring.

When the system reaches the end of the disc, it will return to the beginning and play the disc again.

You can switch to the radio while a CD is playing by pressing the AM/FM1-2 button. Press the CD button to return to playing the CD.

The CD will begin playing where it left off.

Press the eject button to remove the disc from the drive.

If you turn the system off while a CD is playing, either with the PWR/VOL knob or by turning off the ignition, the disc will stay in the drive. When you turn the system back on, the CD will begin playing where it left off.

If you eject the disc, but do not remove it from the slot, the system will automatically reload the disc after 15 seconds and put the CD player in pause mode. To begin playing the disc, press the CD button.

CD SLOT

EJECT BUTTON

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 within a track, press and hold the TUNE/SEEK switch. Push the TUNE/SEEK switch up to move forward; push it down to move backward.

Each time you push the TUNE/SEEK switch up, the system skips forward to the beginning of the next track. Push the switch down to skip backward to the beginning of the current track. Press it again to skip to the beginning of the previous track.

REPEAT — To activate the Repeat feature, press and release the Repeat button. You will see RPT in the display. The system continuously replays the current

track. Press the Repeat button again to turn it off.

EX model only — RANDOM PLAY — This feature, when activated, plays the tracks on the CD in random order, rather than in the order they are recorded on the CD. To activate Random Play, press and hold the A.SEL/RPT button until you see A.SEL in the

display. The system will then select and play tracks randomly. This continues until you deactivate Random Play by pressing A.SEL/RPT again.

If the system is in Repeat mode, you must turn it off by pressing A.SEL/RPT before you can select Random Play. Then press and hold the button again until you see A.SEL displayed.

EX

CD BUTTON

AUTO SELECT LIGHT

REPEAT LIGHT

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

A. SELECT/REPEAT BUTTON

Comfort and Convenience Features

Optional CD Player Error Indications If you see an error indication in the display while operating the CD player, 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

Protecting Compact Discs Handle a CD by its edges; never touch either surface. Contamination from fingerprints, liquids, felt-tip pens, and labels can cause the CD to not play properly, or possibly jam in the drive.

To clean a disc, use a clean soft cloth. Wipe across the disc from the center to the outside edge.

A new CD may be rough on the inner and outer edges. The small plastic pieces causing this roughness can flake off and fall on the recording surface of the disc, causing skipping or other problems. Remove these pieces by rubbing the inner and outer edges with the side of a pencil or pen.

When a CD is not being played, store it in its case to protect it from dust and other contamination. To prevent warpage, keep CDs out of direct sunlight and extreme heat.

Never try to insert foreign objects in the CD player or the magazine.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Theft Protection

EX model 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 with the Preset buttons. Because there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.

If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over or try to correct your mistake. Complete the five-digit sequence, 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.

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.

You should have received a card that lists your audio system's code number and serial number. It is best to store this card in a safe place at home. In addition, you should write the audio system's serial number in this Owner's Manual. If you should happen to lose the card, you must obtain the code number from your Honda dealer. To do this you 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.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Before Driving

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.

If you plan to add any accessories to your vehicle, please read the information in this section first.

Break-in Period . . . . . . . . . .. 86

Gasoline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 86
Oxygenated Fuels . . . . . .. 86
Driving in Foreign Countries . . . . . . . . . . . .. 87

Service Station Procedures . . 88
Filling the Fuel Tank . . . .. 88
Opening the Hood . . . . . .. 89
Oil Check . . . . . . . . . .. 90
Engine Coolant Check . . 91
Fuel Economy . . . . . . . . . . .. 92
Vehicle Condition . . . . . .. 92
Driving Habits . . . . . . . . .. 92

Loading Cargo

. . . . . . . . . .. 93
Cargo Area . . . . . . . . . . . .. 94
Storage Compartments . .. 94
Cargo Area Tonneau Cover . . . . . . . .. 94
. . . . . . . . . . . . .. 96

Accessories

Before Driving

Break-in Period

Gasoline

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.

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.

Before Driving

Your Honda is designed to operate on 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.

In Canada, some gasolines contain an octane-enhancing additive called MMT. If you use such gasolines, your emission control system performance may deteriorate and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp

on your instrument panel may turn on. If this happens, contact your authorized Honda dealer for service.

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.

The following are the EPA - approved percentages of oxygenates:

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

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.

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

Driving in Foreign Countries If you are planning to take your Honda outside the U.S. or Canada, contact the tourist bureaus in the areas you will be traveling in to find out about the availability of unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating.

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

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

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.

3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Place the cap in the holder on the fuel fill door.

FUEL FILL CAP

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 o ff" the tank; leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.

Before Driving

5. Screw the fuel fill cap back

on, tighten it until it clicks. If you do not properly tighten the cap, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp may come on (see page 181).

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 lower left corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

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 up until it releases the hood.

3. Pull the support rod out of its

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

continued

Before Driving

SUPPORT ROD

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).

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

DIPSTICK

2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean

cloth or paper towel.

3. Insert it all the way back in its

tube.

4. Remove the dipstick again,

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

Refer to Owner Maintenance Checks on page 126 for information on checking other items in your Honda.

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 131 for information on adding the proper coolant.

RESERVE TANK

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

If it is near or below the lower mark, see Adding Oil on page 128.

MAX

MIN

Before Driving

Fuel Economy

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

and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

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 Owner Maintenance Checks (see page 126). 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

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 in about a minute, 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) 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 lb (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 111.

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).

EX model - If you put cargo on the roof, secure all items and make sure the cargo does not exceed 100 pounds. Never exceed the load limits for the vehicle.

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.

Before Driving

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

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

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).

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.

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 edge out of its

Before Driving

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

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

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.

Accessories

Your Honda dealer has many Genuine Honda Accessories that allow you to personalize your car. These have all been approved for installation and use on your car and are covered by warranty.

Some non-Honda accessories you can buy in the "aftermarket" are designed for universal application. 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 vehicle's handling and stability.

Before Driving

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

Electronic communications equipment, such as cellular telephones and two-way radios are regulated by the FCC and should not interfere with your vehicle's systems. Improper installation or using electrical equipment not intended for mobile use may interfere with your vehicle'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.

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 parking your car, the braking system, and facts you need if you are planning to tow a trailer.

Preparing to Drive . . . . . . . .. 98

Starting the Engine . . . . . . . .. 98

Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude . . . . . . . . .. 99

5-Speed Manual

Transmission . . . . . . . . .. 100
Recommended Shift Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 101
Maximum Speeds . . . . .. 101
Automatic Transmission . .. 101

Shift Lever Position Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . .. 102
Shift Lever Positions . . .. 102
Maximum Speeds . . . . .. 104
Shift Lock Release . . . . .. 105
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 105
The Braking System . . . . . .. 106
Brake Wear Indicators . .. 107
Brake System Design . .. 107
. . . . .. 108
Anti-Lock Brakes Driving in Bad Weather . . .. 109
Towing a Trailer . . . . . . . . .. 111

Driving

Preparing to Drive

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

6. Check the adjustment of the

inside and outside mirrors (see page 54).

1. Make sure all windows,

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

2. Check that the hood and tailgate 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 49).

Driving

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. Press 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 time. Pause for at least 10
seconds before trying again.

5. If the engine does not start

within 15 seconds or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 4
with the accelerator pedal pressed halfway down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

6. If the engine still does not start, press 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 8,000
feet (2,400 meters) adds to the problem. Use the following procedure:

1. Turn off all electrical

accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

2. Push the accelerator pedal halfway down, and hold it there while starting the engine. Do not hold the ignition key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds. When the engine starts, release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up and smooths out.

3. If the engine fails to start in step 2, push the accelerator pedal all the way down, and hold it there while you try to start the engine for no more than 15 seconds. If the engine does not start, return to step 2.

Driving

Rapid slowing or speeding-up can cause loss of control on slippery surfaces. If you crash, you can be injured.

Use extra care when driving on slippery surfaces.

5-Speed Manual Transmission The manual transmission is synchronized in all forward gears for smooth operation. It has a lockout so you cannot shift directly from Fifth to Reverse. When shifting up or down, make sure you press the clutch pedal down all the way, shift to the next gear, and let the pedal up gradually. When you are not shifting, do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal. This can cause your clutch to wear out faster.

Come to a full stop before you shift into reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into reverse with the car moving. Push down the clutch pedal, and pause for a few seconds before shifting into reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they won't "grind."

When slowing down, you can get extra braking from the engine by shifting to a lower gear. This extra braking can help you maintain a safe speed and prevent your brakes from overheating while going down a steep hill. Before downshifting, make sure the engine speed will not go into the red zone in the lower gear. Refer to the Maximum Speeds chart.

Driving

Recommended Shift Points Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you the best fuel economy and effective emissions control. The following shift points are recommended:

Maximum Speeds The speeds in this table are the maximums for the given gears. If you exceed these speeds, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer's red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine's computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the rpm below the red zone.

Automatic Transmission Your Honda's transmission has four forward speeds and is electronically controlled for smoother shifting. It also has a "lock-up" torque converter for better fuel economy. You may feel what seems like another shift when the converter locks.

Driving

Shift Lever Position Indicator This indicator between the tachometer and speedometer shows you the position of the shift lever. The "D4" indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid acceleration and have the transmission checked by an authorized Honda dealer as soon as possible.

Shift Lever Positions The shift lever has seven positions. It must be in Park or Neutral to start the engine. When you are stopped in D4, D3, 2, 1 or R, press firmly on the brake pedal, and keep your foot off the accelerator pedal.

SHIFT LEVER

Driving

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

If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see Shift Lock Release on page 105.

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

Reverse (R) — To shift to Reverse from Park, see the explanation under Park. To shift to Reverse from Neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift. Press the release button before shifting into Reverse from Neutral.

Neutral (N) — Use Neutral if you need to restart a stalled engine or you need to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to Park position if you need to leave the car for any reason. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from Neutral to another gear.

Drive (D4) — Use this position for your normal driving. The transmission automatically selects a suitable gear for your speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher speeds when the engine is cold. This helps the engine warm up faster.

Driving

Drive (D3) — This position is similar to D4, except only the first three gears may be selected. Use D3 when towing a trailer in hilly terrain or to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D3 can also keep the transmission from cycling between third and fourth gears in stop-and-go driving.

For faster acceleration when in D3
or D4, you can get the transmission to automatically downshift by pushing the accelerator pedal to the floor. The transmission will shift down one or two gears, depending on your speed.

Second (2) — To shift to Second, press the release button on the side of the shift lever. This position locks the transmission in

Driving

second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop. Second gives you more power when climbing, and increased engine braking when going down steep hills. Use second gear when starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow. It will help reduce wheel spin.

Whenever you move the shift lever to a lower gear, the transmission downshifts only if the engine's redline will not be exceeded in the lower gear.

First (1) — To shift from Second to First, press the release button on the side of the shift lever. With the lever in this position, the transmission locks in First gear. By upshifting and downshifting through 1, 2, D3, and D4, you can

operate this transmission much like a manual transmission without a clutch pedal.

Maximum Speeds The speeds in these tables are the maximums for the given position. If you exceed these speeds, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer's red zone. If this occurs, you will feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine's computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the rpm below the red zone.

3. Insert the key in the Shift

Lock Release slot next to the shift lever.

4. Push down on the key while you press the release button and move the shift lever out of Park to Neutral.

5. Remove the key from the

Shift Lock Release slot. Return the key to the ignition switch, depress the brake pedal, and restart the engine.

If you need to use the Shift Lock Release, it could mean your car is developing a problem. Have the car checked by your Honda dealer.

Parking Always use the parking brake when you park your vehicle. The indicator on the instrument panel shows that the parking brake is not fully released; it does not indicate that the parking brake is firmly set. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly or your vehicle may roll if it is parked on an incline.

If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the vehicle from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission — making it easier to move the shift lever out of Park when you want to drive away.

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

1. Set the parking brake.

2. Remove the key from the

ignition switch.

RELEASE BUTTON

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT

Driving

Parking Tips

Make sure your windows are closed. If your vehicle has a moonroof, make sure to close it. Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc., in the cargo area, storage compartments, or take them with you. Use the tonneau cover to keep items left in the cargo area hidden from view.

Lock the doors with the key or the remote transmitter.

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

The Braking System Your Honda is equipped with front disc brakes. The brakes on the rear wheels may be disk or drum, depending on the model. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The ABS on some models helps you retain steering control when braking very hard. Put your foot on the brake pedal only when you intend to brake. Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, causing them to build up heat. Heat buildup can reduce how well your brakes work. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you. Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effectiveness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by downshifting

If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb. If you have a manual transmission, put it in first gear.

If the vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb. If you have a manual transmission, put it in reverse gear.

Make sure the parking brake is fully released before driving away. Driving with the parking brake partially set can overheat or damage the rear brakes, and will cause the ABS indicator to light.

Driving

Your brakes may sometimes squeal or squeak when you apply them lightly. Do not confuse this with the brake wear indicators. They make a very audible "screeching."

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

FRONT

If this happens, you will notice that the brake pedal goes down much farther and you need to press on it much harder. A much longer distance will be needed to stop the car.

Slow the car by downshifting to a lower gear and removing your foot from the accelerator pedal. Pull to the side of the road as soon as it is safe. Because of the longer stopping distance needed, brake system failure is very hazardous. You should have your car towed, but if you must drive the car in this condition, be extremely cautious. Have your car repaired as soon as possible.

to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal. Check your brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them