1995 Honda Civic Coupe Owners Manual

MASTER KEY

Seat Adjustments Adjust the seat before you start driving.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSeat Adjustments

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.

Rear Seat Access On the U.S. EX and Canada Si (Passenger side only) To get in or out of the rear seat, pull up on the lever at the side of the front passenger's seat. The seat-back will fold down, and the front passenger's seat will move forward.

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

The seat will lock in place when it is pushed back.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo release the seat-back from inside the trunk, pull the release loop under the rear shelf. Push the seat-back down; then let go of the loop.

Folding Rear Seat The back of the rear seat folds down, giving you direct access to the trunk. The seat-back can be released from inside the car or inside the trunk. To fold down the seat-back from inside the car, insert the master key in the lock on the rear shelf. Turn the key clockwise, and pull down the top of the seat-back; then release the key.

Folding Rear Seat

To lock the seat-back upright, push it firmly against the rear shelf. Make sure it is latched in place by pulling on the top of the seat.

Make sure all items in the trunk, or items extending through the opening into the back seat, are tied down. Loose items can fly forward and cause injury if you have to brake hard. See Loading Cargo on page 81.

Never drive with the seat-back folded down and the trunk lid open. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 23.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPower Windows

On U.S. EX model 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 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

Instruments and Controls

the window gets to the position you want.

MAIN SWITCH

DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH

The master control panel also contains these extra features:

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

the window from going all the way down, push the window switch up briefly.

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

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

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMoonroof On EX in the U.S. and Si model in Canada Use the switches on the dash- board under the left vent to operate the moonroof. The ignition must be ON (II).

children in the car so they do not injure themselves by operating the window unintentionally.

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.

To lift the rear of the moonroof for ventilation, push the button. To slide the moonroof

Power Windows, Moonroof

switch.

back, push the Hold it until the moonroof reaches the desired position, and then release the switch. To close the moonroof, press and hold the

switch.

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.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

Manual Door Mirrors Only on DX models The outside mirrors can be adjusted by moving the knob on the inside of the door.

the adjustment switch on the left side of the dashboard:

1. Turn the ignition switch

ON (II).

2. Move the selector switch to

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

Adjusting the Power Mirrors On the EX in the U.S. and Si in Canada Adjust the outside mirrors with

SELECTOR SWITCH

3. Push the appropriate edge of

the adjustment switch to

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of Contentsstmove the mirror right, left, up, or down.

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 28).

Mirrors, Parking Brake

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

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAn open glove box can cause serious injury to your passenger in a crash, even if the passenger is wearing the seat belt.

Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

Digital Clock EX models in the U.S. and Si models in Canada The digital clock displays the time with the ignition switch ON (II). To see the time with the ignition off, press and hold the wide button under the clock.

Glove Box, Digital Clock

Glove Box Open the glove box by pulling the handle. Close it with a firm push.

GLOVE BOX

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstDigital Clock, Beverage Holder

Use the buttons to set the clock: 1. Turn the ignition switch

ON (II) to display the time. 2. Swing down the front cover of the wide button under the clock display. You will see H, M, and RESET buttons.

RESET

3. Press and hold the H button

until the number advances to the desired hour.

4. Press and hold the M button until the numbers 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 will pop open. To close it, push it down until it latches.

Use the beverage holder only when the car is parked. If you place cups in the holder while driving, the liquid may spill when

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBeverage Holder, Cigarette Lighter, Ashtrays

you go over bumps or around corners.

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.

Ashtrays Open the front ashtray by pulling on the bottom edge. Push it in to close it. To remove the ashtray for emptying, push down on the metal plate inside, then pull the ashtray out completely.

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

Instruments and Controls

The rear ashtray is at the rear end of the center console. Open the ashtray by swinging the

Main MenuTable of Contentsstupper edge of the lid down. To remove the ashtray for emptying, open it, and then lift up and out.

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.

DOOR ACTIVATED

NOTICE Use the ashtray only for cigarettes, cigars and other smoking mate- rials. 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

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstComfort and Convenience Features

The heating/ventilation system in your car, when combined with the optional air conditioner, provides a comfortable driving environment in all weather conditions.

U.S. EX and Canada Si models 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.

For other models Refer to the operating instructions that came with the optional audio system you selected.

Heating and Cooling . . . . . . . .. 56
What Each Control Does .. 58
How to Use the System . . .. 58

Controlling Air

Flow Direction . . . . . . .. 59
Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . .. 59
To Cool With A/C . . . . . .. 59
To Heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 60
To Heat and Dehumidify With Air Conditioning . 60
To Defog and Defrost . .. 60
To Turn Everything Off . . .. 61
Audio System . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 62
Operating the Radio . . . . .. 62
Presetting Radio Stations .. 63
Adjusting the Sound . . . . .. 64
Radio Frequencies . . . . . . .. 65
Operating the

Cassette Player . . . . . . . .. 65

Caring for the

Operating the

Cassette Player . . . . . . . .. 66

CD Player/Changer . . . . .. 67

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenustHeating and Cooling

This system has full heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (optional) 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.

A Genuine Honda air conditioning system is available from your dealer. It meets Honda's high quality standards and is designed to fit your car. If you purchased your car without air conditioning, it can be installed at a later time. Please contact your dealer for more information.

The direction of air flow from the vents in the center and each side

Move the tab in the center of each vent up and down and side to side.

CENTER VENT

SIDE VENT

The side and upper vents can be opened and closed with the dials next to them. UPPER VENT

OPEN

CLOSE

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

Heating and Cooling

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

What Each Control Does

Fan Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the fan speed, which Increases air flow.

Temperature Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the temperature of air flowing through 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 (Optional) This switch turns the air conditioner ON and OFF. The indicator in the switch lights when the A/C is ON.

MODE BUTTONS

RECIRCULATED AIR AIR CONDITIONING

ON/OFF SWITCH

FRESH AIR

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

Fresh Air and Recirculation Buttons These two buttons control the source of air going into the system. In Fresh Air mode, air comes from outside the car. In Recirculation mode, the interior air recycles through the system.

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

Main MenuTable of Contentsstmode to heat or cool Use the interior more quickly, or to keep out smoke and dust. Leaving the system in recirculation mode with the air conditioning off can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to

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

You

and side windows 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 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 (Optional) To operate the air conditioning system, press the air conditioning switch. Set the fan to the desired speed. You can also use the mode button to direct air out of the dash and heater vents.

After your car has been sitting in the sun, cool the interior down rapidly.

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

the windows, and set the system for cooling as described above.

The air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the coolant temperature gauge (see page 31) 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:

1. Start the engine.

2. Select 3. Switch the fan to the desired

and

speed.

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

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

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. and press any 3. Select

desired mode button.

4. Adjust the temperature

control lever 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 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

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

3. Switch the fan and

temperature controls to maximum.

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

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.

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

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

The anti-theft feature disables the system if it is disconnected from the car's battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number. See page 71.

The cassette system uses Dolby B* noise reduction to give excellent sound reproduction. The system also senses when a metal or a chromium dioxide (CrO2) tape is being played and adjusts accordingly.

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

AM BUTTON

STEREO INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

FM 1-2 BUTTON

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

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) to

operate the audio system. Turn the system on by turning the ON/OFF/VOL knob clockwise. The radio comes on and displays the frequency of the station it was last tuned to.

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSelect the band you want to listen to by pressing the AM or FM 1-2 button. You will see the selected band and the frequency in the display.

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

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 right side bar to change to a higher frequency, and push the left side

of the TUNE/SEEK

of the bar to change to a

lower frequency.

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

The SEEK function searches the band for a station with a strong signal. Depending on which way you push the TUNE/SEEK bar, the system searches up or down from the current frequency. Push the bar until you hear a beep, then release it. The system searches until it finds a station with a strong signal, 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. FM 1-2 allows you to

Audio System

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. 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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

AM BUTTON

STEREO INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

FM 1-2

BASS/ TREBLE

BALANCER/ FADER

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 to your liking 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

Comfort and Convenience Features

the radio is off. You can use the Balance control to turn off the radio panel illumination even with the radio on. Push the control knob so it pops out, then pull it out slightly 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.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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

EJECT BUTTON

REWIND BUTTON

CASSETTE SLOT

FAST FORWARD BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

PROGRAM BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

TMS BUTTON

DOLBY 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.

or

lights to show you

The which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates 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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

reverses direction when it reaches the end of the cassette.

If the tape was recorded with Dolby "B" noise reduction, turn it on by pressing the button.

To remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT knob. The system automatically ejects the cassette whenever you turn off the system or the ignition switch.

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

Press the REW button to rewind the cassette. Press the FF button to fast forward. The cassette will stop playing and will rewind or fast forward. 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 auto- matically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.

The TMS function lets you skip to the beginning of a song or other passage.

Press the TMS button and then the FF button or REW button. The tape will automatically advance to the beginning of the next song or return to the beginning of the song just played. When the system senses a silent period on the tape, it goes back to PLAY mode.

The TMS function uses silent periods on the tape to find the end of a selection. This feature may not work satisfactorily on

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

Caring for Cassettes Damaged cassettes can jam inside the drive or cause other problems. See page 67 for information on cassette care and protection.

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.

After 30 hours of tape use, you will see CLEAN flashing for five

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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 FM1
button while the system is in 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

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.

Do not leave cassettes sitting where they are exposed to high

Audio System

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/ Changer (Optional) Your dealer has an in-dash Honda Compact Disc player or a trunk-mounted changer available for your car. The changer holds up to six discs, providing several hours of continuous program- ming. You operate the CD player and the changer with the same controls used for the radio.

Loading the CD Changer Load the CDs in the magazine and load the magazine into the changer according to the instructions that came with the changer unit.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

To operate the CD player or changer, the ignition key must be in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II). If you were listening to a cassette tape, eject it before listening to a CD.

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 completed, the system will return to disc 1. To make your own disc selection,

TUNE/SEEK BAR

CD BUTTON

push one of the corresponding Preset buttons. Your selection will appear in the display and start playing.

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

You can use the TUNE/SEEK bar while a disc is playing to select passages and change tracks. To move rapidly forward within a side track, press and hold the of the TUNE/SEEK bar. Press and hold the side to move rapidly backward within a track. You will hear a beep a half second after you press either side of the bar.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstKeep pressing the bar until you think the track has advanced or returned to the desired position. The disc will start playing when you release the bar.

same disc and track when you turn it back on.

To return to the radio function, press the AM/FM button.

Audio System

side and

If you press the release it before you hear a beep, the system will skip forward to the beginning of the next track on the CD. It will skip backward to the beginning of the current track if you press the release it.

side and

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

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.

On U.S. EX and Canada Si 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 there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received a card that lists your audio system's code number and serial number. Store the 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 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, then enter the correct code. You have three tries to enter the correct code. If you are unsuccessful in three attempts, you must then leave the system on for one hour before trying again.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

Before Driving

Break-in Period . . . . . . . . . . . .. 74
Gasoline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 74
Oxygenated Fuels . . . . . . .. 74
Driving in Foreign

Countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 75
Service Station Procedures .. 76
Filling the Fuel Tank . . . . .. 76
Opening the Hood . . . . . . .. 77
Oil Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 78
Engine Coolant Check . . . .. 79
Fuel Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 80
Vehicle Condition . . . . . . . .. 80
Driving Habits . . . . . . . . . . .. 80
Loading Cargo . . . . . . . . . . . .. 81

Before Driving

Main Menust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.

Before Driving

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.

Gasolines containing detergent additives designed to help prevent fuel system and engine deposits are recommended. 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.

The following are the EPA-approved percentages of oxygenates:

ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) — You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by

Main MenuTable of Contentsstvolume. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name "Gasohol."

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

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

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 EPA approved percentages of oxygenates are not covered under warranty.

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

Gasoline

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstService Station Procedures

Filling the Fuel Tank To fill the tank, do this:

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

2. Open the fuel fill door by

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

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

FUEL FILL CAP

Pull

Before Driving

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.

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.

5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on; tighten it until it clicks.

6. Push the fuel fill door until it

latches.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

front edge of the hood to the right of center. Slide your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle to the left until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.

HOOD

RELEASE HANDLE

LATCH

Service Station Procedures

the hole on the left side of the hood.

SUPPORT ROD

2. Standing in front of the car, put your fingers under the

3. Pull the support rod out of its

clip, and insert the end into

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstService Station Procedures

2. Wipe the dipstick with a

clean cloth or paper towel.

3.

Insert it all the way back in its tube.

On 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).

DIPSTICK

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of Contentsst4. Remove it again and check

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

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 109 for information on adding the proper coolant.

RESERVE TANK

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

5.

If it is near or below the lower mark, see page 106 for information on the proper oil and how to add it.

MAX MM

Service Station Procedures

Refer to Periodic Checks on page 104 for information on checking other items in your Honda.

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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 104). For example, an underinflated tire causes more "rolling resistance," which uses fuel. It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly.

In winter the build-up of snow on your car's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage

Before Driving

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

A cold engine uses more fuel than a warm engine. It is not necessary to "warm-up" a cold engine by letting it idle for a long time. You can drive away within 30 seconds, no matter how cold

it is outside. The engine will warm up faster, and you get better fuel economy. To cut down on the number of "cold starts," try to combine several short trips into one.

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstLoading Cargo The maximum load you can carry in your Honda is 850 Ib (385 kg). It includes the total weight of all passengers and their belongings, and any accessories. This 850 Ib (385 kg) figure is shown as the Vehicle Capacity Weight on the tire information label attached to the inside of the glove box.

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 (850 lb/385 kg).

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 100 Ib (45 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 trunk 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.

Loading Cargo

If you must carry large objects that prevent you from closing the trunk lid, be aware that exhaust gas can enter the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 23.

Never place items on the shelf behind the back seat. Those items can fly forward and injure you or your passengers if you brake hard or are involved in a collision.

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

Driving

Preparing to Drive . . . . . . . . .. 84
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . .. 84

Starting in Cold Weather at

High Altitude . . . . . . . . . .. 85

5-Speed Manual

Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . .. 86
Recommended Shift

Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 86
Maximum Speeds . . . . . . . .. 87
Automatic Transmission . . . .. 87
Shift Lever Positions . . . . .. 88
Maximum Speeds . . . . . . . .. 90
Shift Lock Release . . . . . . .. 90
The Braking System . . . . . . . .. 91
Brake Wear Indicators . . .. 91
Brake System Design . . . . .. 92
Anti-Lock Brakes . . . . . . . .. 92
Towing a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . .. 93

Driving

Main MenustPreparing to Drive, Starting the Engine

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 43).

6. Check the adjustment of the

inside and outside mirrors (see page 48).

7. Check the adjustment of the steering wheel (see page 36).

Driving

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 (see this

page).

12. Check the gauges and indicator lights in the instrument panel (see page 27).

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 down all the way. 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.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst5.

6.

If the engine does not start within 15 seconds or starts but stalls right away, press 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. If the engine still does not start, to clear flooding, press the accelerator pedal all the way down, and hold it there while starting. 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 to the floor, 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.

Starting the Engine

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

Main MenuTable of Contentsst5-Speed Manual Transmission

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 engine speed will not go into the red zone in the lower gear. Refer to the Maximum Speeds chart.

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:

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.

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. Depress 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 down to a lower gear.

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 push 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.

Driving

Main MenuTable of Contentsst5-Speed Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission

Maximum Speeds The speeds in these tables 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.

DX

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better fuel economy. You may feel what seems like another shift when the converter locks.

Shift Lever Position Indicator This display is on the instrument panel. It shows you the position of the shift lever.

Automatic Transmission Your Honda's transmission has four forward speeds. It has a "lock-up" torque converter for

Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAutomatic Transmission

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

RELEASE BUTTON

Driving

Press the release button on the side of the shift lever to move it.

Park (P) - This position mechan- ically 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.

If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see Shift Lock Release on page 90.

You must also press the release button to shift into Park. To avoid transmission damage,

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

Drive (D3) — This position is similar to D4, except only the first three gears may be selected. Use D3 to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D3
keeps 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

Automatic Transmission

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 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.

Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAutomatic Transmission

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.

Driving

DX

2. Remove the key from the

3.

ignition switch. Insert the key in the Shift Lock Release slot next to the shift lever.

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

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.

RELEASE BUTTON

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAutomatic Transmission, The Braking System

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.

Heat buildup can reduce how well your brakes work. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you.

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.

The Braking System All Civics are equipped with front disc brakes. The brakes on the rear wheels may be disc or drum, depending on the model. The braking system is power- assisted to reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal.

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.

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 to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal.

Check your brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the