1996 Honda Civic Coupe Owners Manual

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty — all exterior body panels are covered for rust-through from the inside for the specified time period with no mileage limit.

Emissions Control Systems Defects Warranty and Emissions Performance Warranty — these two warranties cover your car's emis- sions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are conditional. Please read the warranty manual for exact information.

Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty — this warranty gives up to 100% credit toward a replacement battery.

Accessory Limited Warranty Genuine Honda Accessories are covered under this warranty. Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors. Please read your warranty manual for details.

Replacement Parts Limited Warranty — covers all Genuine Honda replacement parts against defects in materials and workman- ship.

Replacement Battery Limited Warranty — provides prorated coverage for a replacement battery purchased from a Honda dealer.

Replacement Muffler Lifetime Limited Warranty — provides coverage for as long as the pur- chaser of the muffler owns the car.

Restrictions and exclusions apply to all these warranties. Please read the 1996 Honda Warranties booklet that came with your car for precise information on warranty coverages. Your Honda's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty information is in a separate booklet.

Canadian Owners Please refer to the 1996 Warranty and Maintenance Guide that came with your car.

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCustomer Relations Information

Honda dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer all your questions. If you encounter a problem that your dealership does not solve to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealership's management. The Service Manager or General Manager can help. Almost all problems are solved in this way.

If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's management, contact your Honda Customer Relations Zone Office. Refer to the U.S. and Canadian Zone Office maps on the following pages.

When you call or write, please give us this information:

Vehicle Identification Number (see page 202) Name and address of the dealer who services your car Date of purchase Mileage on your car Your name, address, and tele- phone number A detailed description of the problem Name of the dealer who sold the car to you

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReporting Safety Defects (U.S. Cars)

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

If NHTSA receives similar com- plaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAccessories

Installation.................................... 97

ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

Position)........................................ 50
Accessory Power Socket................ 65
Adding

Automatic Transmission

Fluid........................................ 141
Brake Fluid................................. 143
Clutch Fluid................................ 143
Engine Coolant........................... 135
Engine Oil................................... 130
Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 142
Power Steering Fluid................. 144
Windshield Washer Fluid......... 140
Additional Safety Information........ 18
Door Locks................................... 19
Driving with Pets......................... 19
Head Restraint Position.............. 18
Seat-back Position........................ 18
Storing Cargo Safely................... 19
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 132
Adjustments

Headlights.................................. 161

Head Restraints........................... 57
Mirrors.......................................... 61
Seats.............................................. 56
Steering Wheel............................ 45
Airbag (SRS).................................... 12
Air Cleaner..................................... 145
Air Conditioning............................... 68
Maintenance............................... 154
Usage............................................. 68
Air Outlets (Vents).......................... 70
Air Pressure, Tires........................ 156
Normal Driving.......................... 156
High Speed Driving................... 208
Alcohol and Drugs........................... 27
Alcohol in Gasoline.......................... 90
Antifreeze....................................... 135
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Description................................. 206
Indicator Light................... 35, 115
Operation.................................... 114

Anti-theft Steering Column

Lock...............................................50
Appearance Care........................... 173
Ashtrays (Optional)......................... 65
Audio System................................... 76
Automatic Speed Control................ 46

Index

Automatic Transmission............... 104
Capacity, Fluid........................... 204
Checking Fluid Level................ 141
Shifting........................................105
Shift Lever Positions................. 104
Shift Lock Release..................... 108

Battery

Charging System

Indicator............................ 35, 194
Jump Starting............................. 187
Maintenance............................... 149
Specifications............................. 205
Before Driving................................. 89
Belts, Seat........................................... 5
Beverage Holder.............................. 64
Body Repair.................................... 178

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Brakes

Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 114
Break-in, New Linings................. 90
Fluid............................................ 142
Light, Burned-out...................... 166
Parking..........................................62
System Indicator.......................... 35
Wear Indicators......................... 109

Brakes, ABS

Description................................. 206
Operation.................................... 114
System Indicator.................. 35, 115
Braking System.............................. 113
Break-in, New Car........................... 90
Brightness Control, Instruments... 42
Brights, Headlights......................... 41
Bulb Replacement

Back-up Lights........................... 167
Brake Lights............................... 166
Front Parking Lights................. 165
Front Side Marker Lights......... 165
Headlights.................................. 163
High-mount Brake Light.......... 168
Interior Light.............................. 169
License Plate Lights.................. 169
Rear Side Marker Lights.......... 166

Specifications............................. 205
Trunk Light................................ 170
Turn Signal Lights..................... 165
Bulbs, Halogen............................... 163

Cables, Jump Starting With.......... 187
Capacities Chart............................. 204
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 28
Cargo, Loading................................. 98
Cassette Player

Care............................................... 84
Operation...................................... 82
CAUTION, Explanation of............... ii CD Changer...................................... 85
CD Changer/Player........................ 85
Certification Label......................... 202
Chains............................................. 160
Change Oil

How to......................................... 132
When to....................................... 124
Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 181
Changing Engine Coolant............. 137
Charging System Indicator .. 35, 192

Checking

Automatic Transmission

Fluid........................................ 141
Battery Condition...................... 149
Brake Fluid................................. 143
Clutch Fluid................................ 143
Drive Belts.................................. 155
Engine Coolant........................... 135
Engine Oil................................... 130
Fuses........................................... 196
Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 142
Power Steering Fluid................. 144
Checklist, Before Driving............. 100
Child Safety...................................... 20
Cleaner, Air.................................... 145
Cleaning

Exterior....................................... 174
Interior........................................ 176
Seat Belts.................................... 176
Vinyl............................................ 176
Windows..................................... 177
Clock, Setting the............................ 81
Clutch Fluid.................................... 143
CO in the Exhaust......................... 210
Cold Weather, Starting in............. 101
Compact Spare............................... 180

Main MenustIndex

Consumer Information*................ 215
Continuously Variable

Transmission (CVT)................. 109
Controls, Instruments and.............. 31
Coolant

Adding.........................................135
Checking..................................... 135
Proper Solution.......................... 135
Replacing.................................... 137
Temperature Gauge.................... 38
Corrosion Protection..................... 177
Crankcase Emission Control

System.........................................210
Cruise Control Operation............... 46
Customer Relations Office........... 215

DANGER, Explanation of................. ii Dashboard........................................ 32
Daytime Running Lights................. 41
Dead Battery, What to Do............ 187
Defects, Reporting Safety............. 218
Defog and Defrost........................... 73
Defogger, Rear Window................. 44
Defrosting the Windows................. 73

DEXRON® II Automatic

Transmission Fluid.................... 141
Dimensions..................................... 204
Dimming the Headlights ................ 41
Dipstick

Automatic Transmission........... 141
Engine Oil................................... 130
Directional Signals........................... 42
Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 200
Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 113
Disposal of Used Oil...................... 134
Doors

Locking and Unlocking............... 50
Power Door Locks....................... 51
DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 208
Downshifting, 5-speed Manual

Transmission.............................. 102
Drive Belts...................................... 155
Driving.............................................. 99
Economy....................................... 96
In Bad Weather.......................... 116
In Foreign Countries................... 91

Emergencies on the Road............. 179
Battery, Jump Starting.............. 187
Changing a Flat Tire................. 181
Charging System Indicator ...... 192
Checking the Fuses................... 195
Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 191
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 193
Manually Closing Moonroof.... 194
Overheated Engine................... 189
Emergency Brake............................ 62
Emergency Flashers....................... 44
Emission Controls......................... 210
Engine

Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 38
Malfunction Indicator

Lamp................................ 35, 193
Oil Pressure Indicator....... 35, 191
Oil, What Kind to Use............... 131
Overheating................................ 189
Specifications............................. 204
Ethanol in Gasoline ......................... 91
Evaporative Emission Controls.... 210
Exhaust Fumes................................ 28

Economy, Fuel................................. 96

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

Belts by......................................... 10
Exterior, Cleaning the................... 174

Fabric, Cleaning............................. 176
Fan, Interior...................................... 68
Features, Comfort and

Convenience................................. 67
Filling the Fuel Tank....................... 92
Filters

Air................................................145
Oil................................................ 132

5-speed Manual Transmission

Checking Fluid Level................ 142
Shifting the................................. 102
Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 44
Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 181
Fluids

Automatic Transmission........... 141
Brake...........................................142
Clutch.......................................... 143
Manual Transmission............... 142
Power Steering........................... 144
Windshield Washer................... 140

FM Stereo Radio

Reception...................................... 76
Folding Rear Seat............................ 58
Foreign Countries, Driving in........ 91
Four-way Flashers........................... 44
Front End, Towing by

Emergency Wrecker................. 200
Fuel.................................................... 90
Fill Door and Cap......................... 92
Gauge............................................ 38
Octane Requirement................... 90
Oxygenated.................................. 90
Reserve Indicator......................... 36
Tank, Filling the........................... 92
Fuses, Checking the...................... 195

Gas Mileage, Improving.................. 96
Gasohol............................................. 91
Gasoline............................................ 90
Fuel Reserve Indicator................ 36
Gauge............................................ 38
Octane Requirement................... 90
Tank, Filling the........................... 92
Gas Station Procedures................... 92

Gauges

Engine Coolant Temperature .... 38
Fuel................................................38

Gearshift Lever Positions

Automatic Transmission...........105
CVT............................................. 109
5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 102
Glass Cleaning............................... 177
Glove Box......................................... 63

Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 163
Hazard Warning Flashers............... 44
Headlights

Aiming......................................... 161
Daytime Running Lights............. 41
High Beam Indicator................... 35
High Beams, Turning on............ 41
Low Beams, Turning on ............. 41
Reminder Beeper......................... 41
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 161
Turning on.................................... 41
Head Restraints............................... 57
Heating and Cooling........................ 68

Main MenustHigh Altitude, Starting at.............. 101
High-Low Beam Switch .................. 41
High-mount Brake Light............... 168
Hood, Opening the .......................... 93
Horn...................................................40
Hot Coolant, Warning about........ 135
Hydraulic Clutch............................ 143
Hydroplaning.................................. 117

Identification Number, Vehicle.... 202
If Your Car Has to be Towed....... 200
Ignition

Keys............................................... 49
Switch............................................49
Timing Control System............. 211

Indicator Lights, Instrument

Panel..............................................33
Infant Restraint................................ 20
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 156
Normal Driving.......................... 156
High Speed Driving................... 208
Inside Mirror.................................... 61
Inspection, Tire.............................. 157
Instrument Panel............................. 32

Index

Instrument Panel Brightness......... 42
Interior Cleaning............................ 176
Interior Light.................................... 66
Introduction......................................... i

Jacking up the Car......................... 182
Jack, Tire........................................ 182
Jump Starting................................. 187

Keys................................................... 49

Parking.......................................... 41
Turn Signal................................... 42
Loading Cargo.................................. 98
LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 50
Locks

Anti-theft Steering Column........ 50
Fuel Fill Door............................... 92
Power Door.................................. 51
Trunk............................................ 55
Low Coolant Level......................... 135
Low Fuel Indicator .......................... 36
Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 102
Low Oil Pressure Indicator... 35, 191
Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 204
Luggage............................................ 98

Label, Certification........................ 202
Lane Change, Signaling.................. 42
Lap Belt............................................... 7
Lap/Shoulder Belts........................... 6
Leaking of Exhaust into Car.......... 28
Lighter, Cigarette............................ 65
Lights

Bulb Replacement..................... 159
Indicator........................................ 33

Maintenance................................... 119
Periodic Items............................ 128
Record..................................126-127
Required Indicator....................... 39
Safety...........................................120
Schedule.............................. 124-125

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Malfunction Indicator Lamp. 35, 193
Manual Transmission.................... 102
Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 142
Maximum Shift Speeds........ 103, 107
Meters, Gauges................................ 37
Methanol in Gasoline...................... 91
Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 61
Moonroof.......................................... 61
Closing Manually....................... 194
Operation...................................... 61

Neutral Gear Position.................... 106
New Vehicle Break-in ..................... 90
Normal Shift Speeds...................... 102
NOTICE, Explanation of................... ii Numbers, Identification................ 202

Occupant Protection System............ 4
Octane Requirement, Gasoline...... 90
Odometer.......................................... 37
Odometer, Trip................................ 37

Oil

Change, How to ......................... 132
Change, When to....................... 124
Checking Engine....................... 130
Pressure Indicator.............. 35, 191
Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart....................................... 132
ON (Ignition Key Position) ............ 50
Opening the Hood ........................... 93
Opening the Trunk.......................... 55
Operation in Foreign Countries..... 91
Outside Mirrors............................... 61
Overheating, Engine..................... 189

Panel Brightness Control............... 42
Park Gear Position......................... 105
Parking Brake.................................. 62
Parking Lights.................................. 41
Parking Over Things that Burn... 212
PGM-FI System.............................. 211
Polishing and Waxing ................... 175
Power

Door Locks................................... 51
Mirrors.......................................... 62

Steering....................................... 144
Windows....................................... 59
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 10
Proper Seat Belt Usage..................... 7

Radiator Overheating.................... 189
Radio/Cassette Sound System....... 76
Rear End Towing........................... 200
Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 166
Rear Seat, Folding........................... 58
Rear View Mirror............................. 61
Rear Window Defogger.................. 44
Reclining the Seat Backs................ 56
Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 102
Reminder Lights.............................. 33
Remote Transmitter........................ 52
Replacement Information

Air Cleaner................................. 145
Coolant........................................ 137
Engine Oil and Filter................. 132
Fuses........................................... 196
Light Bulbs................................. 163
Schedule..................................... 124
Spark Plugs................................. 147

Main MenustTires............................................ 158
Wiper Blades.............................. 152

Replacing Seat Belts After a

Crash............................................. 11
Reserve Tank, Engine Coolant.... 135
Restraint, Child................................ 20
Reverse Gear Position................... 106
Rotation, Tire................................. 158

Safety Belts......................................... 5
Safety Defects, Reporting* .......... 218
Safety Labels, Location of.............. 29
Safety Messages................................ ii Seat Belts............................................ 5
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 10
Child Seat Anchor Plate.............. 25
Cleaning...................................... 176
Frayed or Torn............................. 11
Maintenance................................. 11
Reminder Light and Beeper....... 34
Replacement................................. 11
System Components...................... 6
Tether Attachment Points.......... 25
Use During Pregnancy................ 10

Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7
Wearing the Lap Belt.................... 9
Seats, Adjusting the......................... 56
Serial Number................................ 202
Service Intervals............................ 124
Service Manual* ............................ 219
Service Station Procedures ............ 92
Setting the Clock ............................. 81
Shifting

The Automatic Transmission .. 105
TheCVT..................................... 113
The 5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 102
Shift Lever Position Indicator...... 104
Shift Lock Release......................... 108
Side Marker Lights, Bulb

Replacement in.......................... 165
Signaling Turns................................ 42
Snow Tires...................................... 160
Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 174
Sound System................................... 76
Spare Tire

Inflating....................................... 180
Specifications............................. 205
Spark Plugs, Replacing................. 147
Specifications Charts..................... 204

Index

Speed Control................................... 46
Speedometer.................................... 37
SRS Indicator.............................. 16, 34
START (Ignition Key Position)..... 50
Starting the Engine........................ 101

In Cold Weather at High

Altitude................................... 101
With a Dead Battery ................. 187
Steam Coming from Engine......... 189
Steering Wheel

Adjustment................................... 45
Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 50
Stereo Sound System ...................... 76
Storing Your Car............................ 171
Supplemental Restraint System

Important Facts............................ 13
Service Precautions..................... 17
Servicing....................................... 16
SRS Indicator.......................... 16, 34
System Components.................... 12
What Happens In a Crash........... 12
Synthetic Oil................................... 132

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Tachometer...................................... 37
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 166
Taking Care of the Unexpected .. 179
Tape Player....................................... 82
Technical Descriptions

Anti-lock Brake System............ 206
Emission Control Systems........ 210
Three Way Catalytic

Converter................................ 212
Tire Information........................ 207
Temperature Gauge........................ 38
Tether Attachment Points.............. 25
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 212
Time, Setting the............................. 81
Tire Chains..................................... 160
Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 181
Tires................................................ 155
Air Pressure............................... 156
Checking Wear.......................... 157
Compact Spare........................... 180
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 208
Inflation.......................................156
Inspection................................... 157
Maintenance............................... 157

Replacing.................................... 158
Rotating....................................... 158
Snow............................................ 160
Specifications............................. 205
Technical Information.............. 208
Technical Information................... 201
Tools, Tire Changing.................... 181
Torn Seat Belts ................................ 11
Towing

A Trailer...................................... 117
By Emergency Wrecker........... 200

Transmission

Checking Fluid Level,

Automatic............................... 141

Checking Fluid Level,

Manual.................................... 142
Fluid Selection............................ 141
Identification Number............... 203
Shifting the Automatic.............. 105
Shifting the CVT........................ 113
Shifting the Manual................... 102
Treadwear...................................... 208
Trip Meter........................................ 37
Trunk................................................. 55
Opening......................................... 55
Open Monitor Light.................... 36

Turn Signals..................................... 42

Underside, Cleaning...................... 177
Unexpected, Taking Care

of the........................................... 179
Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 208
Unleaded Gasoline........................... 90
Upholstery Cleaning...................... 176
Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 134

Vehicle Capacity Load .................... 98
Vehicle Dimensions....................... 204
Vehicle Identification Number..... 202
Vehicle Storage.............................. 171
Ventilation......................................... 71
VIN.................................................. 202
Vinyl Cleaning................................ 176
Viscosity, Oil................................... 132

Main MenustIndex

Wipers, Windshield

Changing Blades........................ 152
Operation...................................... 43
Worn Tires..................................... 157
Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 200

* : U.S. and Canada only

Warning Beepers

Headlights on............................... 41
Key in Ignition.............................. 50
Seat Belts...................................... 34
WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii Warning Labels, Location of.......... 29
Warranty Coverages* ................... 214
Washer, Windshield

Checking the Fluid Level......... 140
Operation...................................... 43
Washing.......................................... 174
Waxing and Polishing................... 174
Wheels

Adjusting the Steering................ 45
Alignment and Balance............. 157
Compact Spare........................... 180
Wrench....................................... 182

Windows

Cleaning...................................... 177
Operating the Power................... 59
Rear, Defogger............................ 44

Windshield

Cleaning........................................ 43
Defroster...................................... 73

Main MenustGas Station Information

Gasoline: UNLEADED gasoline Pump octane number of 86 or higher

Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 l (11.9 US gal, 9.9 Imp gal)

Recommended Engine Oil: APISH grade "Energy Conserving II" oil SAE 5W-30 viscosity

Tire Pressure (measured cold): (DX) Front/Rear:

220 kPa (2.2 kgf/cm2, 32 psi)

(U.S.:HX, EX, Canada: Si) Front:

210 kPa (2.1 kgf/cm2, 30 psi)

Rear:

200 kPa (2.0 kgf/cm2, 29 psi)

Spare Tire Pressure: 415 kPa (4.15 kgf/cm2, 60 psi)

Automatic Transmission Fluid: Honda Premium Formula Auto- matic Transmission Fluid or an equivalent DEXRON® II type Auto- matic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

HX model (CVT) only: Use Honda Premium Formula Automatic Transmission Fluid (Genuine ATF) only

Main MenustMain Menust1996 Civic Coupe Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.

Contents

Owner's Identification Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety.................................................................................................................ii Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................3
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls.................................................................................................................31
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. . .67
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving....................................................................................................................................89
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving ................................................................................................................................................99
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................119
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care..............................................................................................................................173
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected......................................................................................................179
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information.....................................................................................................................201
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................213
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................219
How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index..................................................................................................................................................... I Gas Station Information Information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

Introduction

Congratulations ! Your selection of a 1996 Honda Civic was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.

One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is to read this manual. In it, you will learn about your vehicle's many safety features, and how to operate its driving controls and convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner's manual in your vehicle so you can refer to it at any time.

Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty booklet thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights and responsibilities.

Maintaining your vehicle according to the schedules given in this manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. When your vehicle needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's staff is specially-trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns.

Main MenustSafety Messages

Your safety and the safety of others is very important. We have provided many important safety messages in this manual and on the vehicle. Please read these messages carefully.

A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol one of three words, DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. These mean:

and

You will also see another important symbol:

NOTICE

Your Honda or other property can be damaged if yon don't follow instruc- tions.

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

The purpose of these messages is to help prevent damage to your vehicle, other property, or the environment.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions.

Each safety message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen and what you can do to avoid or reduce injury.

Main MenustDriver and Passenger Safety

This section gives you important information about occupant protec- tion. It shows how to use seat belts properly. It explains the Supple- mental Restraint System. And it gives useful information about how to protect infants and children in your car.

Your Occupant Protection System.. 4
The Seat Belt System

and How It Works...................... 5

Why Wear Seat Belts.................... 5
Important Safety Reminders........ 5
Seat Belt System Components..... 6
Lap/Shoulder Belt......................... 6
Lap Belt........................................... 7
Wearing Seat Belts Properly........ 7
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7
Wearing the Lap Belt.................... 9
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 10
Seat Belt Maintenance................ 11
Supplemental Restraint System..... 12
SRS Components......................... 12
What Happens In a Crash........... 12
Important Facts About

Airbags...................................... 13

How the Driver's Airbag

Works...................................... 14

How the Passenger's Airbag

Works........................................ 15

How the SRS Indicator Light

Works........................................ 16
System Service............................. 16
System Service Precautions....... 17
Additional Safety Information........ 18
Seat-back Position........................ 18
Head Restraint Position.............. 18

Door Locks................................... 19
Storing Cargo Safely................... 19
Driving with Pets......................... 19
Child Safety...................................... 20
Where Should Children Sit?....... 20
Important Safety Reminders...... 21
General Guidelines for Restraining Children Under 18 kg (40 Ibs)............... 22

Restraining an Infant Who Weighs Less Than 9 kg (20 Ibs).......... 22

Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs)..... 23

Restraining a Child Who Weighs

Over 18 kg (40 Ibs).................. 24

Securing a Child Seat with a Lap/

Shoulder Belt........................... 24

Using Child Restraints

with Tethers............................. 25
Storing a Child Seat..................... 26
Alcohol and Drugs........................... 27
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 28
Safety Labels.................................... 29

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenustYour Occupant Protection System

Your Honda is equipped with seat belts and other features that work together to protect you and your passengers during a crash.

Seat belts are the most important part of your occupant protection system. When worn properly, seat belts can reduce the chance of serious injury or death in a crash.

For added protection during a severe frontal collision, your Honda has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with airbags for the driver and a front seat passenger.

Two indicator lights are also part of your safety system. One reminds you to make sure you and your passen- gers wear seat belts. The other alerts you to a possible problem with your supplemental restraint system (see page 16).

The seats, head restraints, and door locks also play a role in occupant safety. For example, reclining the seat-back can decrease the effec- tiveness of your seat belt. Head restraints can help protect your neck and head, especially during rear-end impacts. Door locks help keep your doors from being accidentally opened during a crash.

Driver and Passenger Safety

To get the maximum protection from your occupant protection system, check the following before you drive away:

Everyone in the car is wearing a seat belt properly (see page 7). Infants and small children are properly secured in child safety seats (see page 20). Both doors are closed and locked (see page 19). Seat-backs are upright and head restraints are properly adjusted (see pages 18 and 57). There are no loose items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash or sudden stop (see page 19).

By following these guidelines, you can reduce injuries to yourself and your passengers in many crash situations. Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Seat Belt System and How It Works

Why Wear Seat Belts Wearing seat belts, and wearing them properly, is fundamental to your safety and the safety of your passengers.

During a crash or emergency stop, seat belts can help keep you from being thrown against the inside of the car, against other occupants, or out of the car.

Of course, seat belts cannot com- pletely protect you in every crash. But, in most cases, scat belts reduce your chance of serious injury. They can even save your life. That is why many states and all Canadian pro- vinces require you to wear seat belts.

Not wearing a seat belt increases the chance of being killed or seriously hurt in a crash.

Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

Important Safety Reminders Seat belts are designed for adults and larger children. All infants and small children must be properly restrained in child safety seats (see page 20).

A pregnant woman needs to wear a seat belt to protect herself and her unborn child (see page 10).

Two people should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash.

Do not place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This could increase the chance of serious injuries in a crash.

Do not put shoulder belt pads or other accessories on seat belts. They can reduce the effectiveness of the belts and increase the chance of injury.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Seat Belt System and How It Works

Seat Belt System Components Your Honda has seat belts in all five seating positions. The front seats and the outside positions of the rear seat have lap/shoulder belts. The center position of the rear seat has a lap belt.

Your seat belt system also includes a light on the instrument panel to remind you to fasten your seat belt, and to make sure your passengers fasten theirs. This light comes on when you turn on the ignition if you have not fastened your seat belt. A beeper also sounds for several seconds (see page 34).

The following pages cover more about the seat belt components and how they work.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Lap/Shoulder Belt

SHOULDER PORTION

UPPER SEAT BELT ANCHOR

To retractor

LAP PORTION

The lap/shoulder belt retractor in each passenger seating position has an additional locking mechanism that is intended to secure a child seat (see page 24). If the shoulder part of the belt is pulled all the way out, this mechanism will engage. The belt will retract, but it will not allow the passenger to move freely. If the belt feels too tight, unlatch it, let it retract fully, then pull it out as far as needed.

BUCKLE

LATCH PLATE

This style of seat belt has a single belt that goes over your shoulder, across your chest, and across your hips. Each lap/shoulder belt has an emergency locking retractor. In normal driving, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat while it keeps some tension on the belt. During a collision or sudden stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Seat Belt System and How It Works

Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt Before putting on the seat belt, move the driver's seat as far back as is practical while still allowing you to maintain full control of the vehicle. Make sure the seat-back is upright (see page 18). The front seat passenger should move the seat as far back as possible.

Wearing Seat Belts Properly You can increase the effectiveness of your seat belts if you take a little time to read the following pages and make sure you know how to wear seat belts properly.

Not wearing seat belts properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash.

Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

Lap Belt

The lap belt has one manually- adjusted belt that fits across the hips. It is similar to safety belts used in airplanes.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Seat Belt System and How It Works

1. Pull the latch plate across your

body and insert it into the buckle. Tug on the belt to make sure the latch is securely locked.

2. Check that the belt is not twisted.

3. Position the lap portion of the belt

as low as possible across your hips, not across your stomach. This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash.

4. Pull up on the shoulder part of the

belt to remove any slack. Make sure the belt goes over your collarbone and across your chest.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Seat Belt System and How It Works

Wearing the Lap Belt

5. If the shoulder belt crosses your

neck while you are sitting in one of the outside positions of the rear seat, you need to adjust your seating position. Move toward the center of the seat until the belt fits over your collarbone.

To unlatch the seat belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. Guide the belt across your body to the door pillar.

After you exit the vehicle, make sure the seat belt is out of the way and will not get closed in the door.

1. Pull the latch plate across your

hips and insert it into the buckle marked CENTER.

If the belt is too short, hold the latch plate at a right angle and pull to extend the belt. Insert the latch plate into the buckle.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Seat Belt System and How It Works

Advice for Pregnant Women

2. Position the belt as low as possible across your hips and pelvic bones, not across your stomach. Pull the loose end of the belt to adjust for a snug but comfortable fit.

To unlatch the belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle.

Protecting the mother is the best way to protect her unborn child. Therefore, a pregnant woman should wear a properly-positioned seat belt whenever she drives or rides in a car.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Seat Belt System and How It Works

If possible, use the lap/shoulder seat belt, remembering to keep the lap portion as low as possible (see page 7).

Each time you have a check-up, ask your doctor if it's okay for you to drive and how you should position a lap/shoulder seat belt.

Seat Belt Maintenance For safety, you should check the condition of your seat belts regularly.

Pull out each belt fully and look for frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check that the latches work smoothly and the lap/shoulder belts retract easily. Any belt not in good condition or not working properly should be replaced.

If a seat belt is worn during a crash, have your dealer replace the belt and inspect the anchors for damage.

For information on how to clean your seat belts, see page 176.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System

Your car is equipped with a Supple- mental Restraint System (SRS) to help protect the head and chest of the driver and front seat passenger during a severe frontal collision.

This system does not replace your seat belts. It supplements, or adds to, the protection offered by seat belts and other occupant protection features.

Not wearing seat belts increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even if you have airbags.

Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

SRS Components Your supplemental restraint system includes:

One airbag in the steering wheel for the driver and another in the dashboard for the front passenger.

Sensors that can detect a severe frontal collision.

A sophisticated electronic system that continually monitors the sensors, control unit, airbag activators, and all related wiring when the ignition is ON (II).

An indicator light on the instru- ment panel to alert you to a possi- ble problem with the system.

Emergency backup power in case your car's electrical system is disconnected in a crash.

What Happens In a Crash If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the sensors will detect rapid deceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate the airbags.

During a crash, your seat belts will help to restrain your lower body and torso. The airbags will provide a cushion to absorb crash energy and help keep the head and chest of the driver and front passenger from striking the interior of the car.

After inflating, the airbags will immediately deflate. The entire process, from detection to deflation, takes a fraction of a second. This process occurs so quickly that you may not hear the loud noise created by the airbag inflators, or realize what has happened.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System

After the crash, you may see what looks like smoke. This is actually powder from the airbag's surface. People with respiratory problems may experience some temporary discomfort from the chemicals used by the airbag's activators.

Important Facts About Airbags Airbags inflate only when needed; in a severe frontal collision. A severe collision would be similar to a crash into a parked vehicle of similar size at 25 mph (40 km/h). Airbags will not inflate in a moderate frontal collision, or during a rear impact, side impact, or rollover — even if the impact is severe.

Airbags inflate and deflate only once. They cannot protect you during any additional impacts that can occur

during a crash sequence.

Injuries, including fatal injuries, can occur in a severe collision, even if seat belts are worn properly and the airbags inflate. No safety system can provide complete protection in a severe crash.

Just from viewing the vehicle damage after a crash, it is very difficult to accurately determine if the airbags should or should not have inflated. In some cases where the airbag did not inflate, extensive visible damage indicated that the car absorbed much of the crash energy, and the airbags were not needed. In other cases, a severe jolt, such as an impact to the undercarriage, may not cause extensive body damage but cause the airbags to inflate.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System

How the Driver's Airbag Works

To do its job, the airbag inflates with considerable force. So, while it can reduce serious injuries and even save your life, the airbag might cause some facial abrasions or other injuries. To reduce the possibility of injury, you should always sit back as far from the steering wheel as is practical while still maintaining full vehicle control.

If you ever have a severe frontal collision, your airbag will instantly inflate to help protect your head and chest.

Driver and Passenger Safety

After the bag completely inflates, it immediately starts deflating so it won't interfere with your visibility, ability to steer, or ability to operate other controls. The total time for inflation and deflation takes a fraction of a second. You may not even be aware that the airbag has been fully inflated.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe driver's airbag is stored in the center of the steering wheel. For your safety, do not attach any items to the steering wheel. They could interfere with the proper operation of the airbag. Or, if the airbag inflates, they could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone.

Supplemental Restraint System

How the Passenger's Airbag Works

seat as far back as practical and sit well back in the seat.

We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the passenger's airbag will inflate at the same time as the driver's airbag.

This airbag is quite large and inflates with considerable force. It can seriously hurt a front seat passenger who is not in the proper position and wearing the seat belt properly. Front seat passengers should move the

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System

The passenger's airbag is stored near the top of the dashboard, under a lid marked SRS. Do not place any objects on top of this lid. If the airbag inflates, those objects can be propelled inside the car and possibly hurt someone.

S R S

How the SRS Indicator Light Works

The purpose of the SRS light on your instrument panel is to alert you of a potential problem with your supple- mental restraint system.

System Service Your supplemental restraint system is virtually maintenance-free. There are no parts you can safely service. You must have the system serviced by an authorized Honda dealer:

Have the system checked if:

The light does not come on when you turn the ignition ON (II).

The light stays on after the engine starts.

The light comes on or flashes while you are driving.

If you see any of these indications, the airbag may not work when needed in an accident. Take the car to your dealer promptly for diagnosis and service.

If your airbags ever inflate, the airbags and control unit must be replaced. Do not try to remove or discard the airbags by yourself. This must be done by a Honda dealer.

If the SRS indicator light alerts you of a problem. Have the supplemental restraint system checked as soon as possible. Otherwise, your airbags might not inflate when you need them.

When the car is ten years old. Have the dealer inspect the system. The production date is on the driver's doorjamb for your convenience.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System

Scrapping an entire car that has uninflated airbags can be dangerous. Get assistance from a Honda dealer if your car must be scrapped.

If you sell your car, please be sure to tell the new owner that the car has a supplemental restraint system. Alert them to the information and precau- tions in this part of the owner's manual.

System Service Precautions Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of the supplemental restraint system. Modifications could make the system ineffective.

Do not tamper with the system's components or wiring. This could cause the airbags to inflate inadver- tently, possibly injuring someone very seriously.

Tell anyone who works on your car that you have a supplemental restraint system. Failure to follow the procedures and precautions in the official Honda service manual could result in personal injury or damage to the system.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Safety Information

The seat belts and airbags are obvi- ously important parts of your occu- pant protection system.

In addition, you should know that sitting upright, adjusting the head restraints properly, locking the doors, and stowing things properly can also increase your safety and possibly even save your life.

Seat-back Position The seat-backs should be in an upright position for you and your passengers to get the most protec- tion from the seat belts.

If you recline a seat-back, you reduce the protective capability of your seat belt. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk that you will slide under the belt in a severe crash and be very seriously injured.

For information on how to adjust the seat-back, see page 56.

Head Restraint Position

Head restraints can help protect you from whiplash and other injuries. For the best protection, adjust the top of the restraint so it is even with the tops of your ears, or as high as possi- ble. For instructions on adjusting the head restraints, see page 57.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Safety Information

Be sure to keep compartment doors closed when the car is moving. If a front passenger hits the door of an open glove box, for example, he could injure his knees.

For information on loading cargo, see page 98.

Driving with Pets Loose pets can be a hazard while you are driving. An unrestrained pet can interfere with your ability to drive the car. In a crash or sudden stop, loose pets or cages can be thrown around inside the car and hurt you or your passengers. It is also for their safety that pets should be properly restrained in your car.

The recommended way to restrain a medium-sized or larger dog is with a special traveling harness. This har- ness can be secured to the rear seat with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are available at pet stores.

A small dog, cat, or other small animal will be safest in a pet carrier with rigid sides. Choose a style that allows you to secure it to the car's seat by routing a seat belt through the carrier's handle.

For further information, contact your veterinarian or local animal protec- tion society.

Door Locks It is not safe to leave your car doors unlocked. A passenger, especially a child, could open a door and acci- dentally fall out. Also, there is a greater chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash when the doors are not locked.

Storing Cargo Safely Before you drive, make sure you first securely store or tie down any items that could be thrown around the car and hurt someone, or interfere with your ability to operate the controls.

Do not put any items on top of the rear shelf. They can block your view and they could be thrown about the car in a crash.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChild Safety

Children depend on adults to protect them. To help make sure we do, every state and Canadian province has laws requiring infants and young children to be properly restrained whenever they ride in a car.

Driver and Passenger Safety

An infant or child who is not properly restrained can be killed or seriously injured in a crash.

Be sure any child too small for seat belts is properly secured in a child restraint.

Where Should Children Sit? According to accident statistics, children of all sizes and ages are safer when they are properly restrained in the rear seat rather than the front seat.

We recommend that, whenever possible, you secure your child's infant or toddler seat in the center position of the rear seat with the lap belt.

We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.

We also recommend that any child who is too large to use an infant or toddler seat ride in one of the out- side positions of the rear seat. The child should then wear the lap/ shoulder belt properly for protection. If the child is not large enough to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly, you should use a booster seat.

Important Safety Reminders Never hold a baby or child on your lap when riding in a car. If you are wearing your seat belt, the violent forces created during a crash will tear the child from your arms. The child could be seriously hurt or killed.

If you are holding a child and not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could crush the child against the car's interior.

Never put your seat belt over yourself and a child. During a crash, the belt could press deep into the child, causing serious internal injuries.

Two children should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash.

Child Safety

For their safety, do not leave children alone in your car without adult supervision.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChild Safety

General Guidelines for Restraining Children Under 18 kg (40 Ibs) Use an approved child seat. The seat must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS-213) or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Look for the manufac- turer's statement of compliance on the box and seat.

Use a seat of the right size. Make sure the seat fits your child. Check the seat manufacturer's instructions and labels for height and weight limits.

Secure the child seat to the car. All approved child seats are designed to be secured to the car seat by the lap belt or the lap belt portion of a lap/ shoulder belt. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the car can be endangered in a crash.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Restraining an Infant Who Weighs Less Than 9 kg (20 Ibs)

To properly route a seat belt through a child seat, follow the seat maker's instructions. If you use a lap/ shoulder belt, follow the instructions on page 24.

Secure the child in the child seat Make sure the infant or child is firmly secured to the child seat. Use the straps provided, and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions.

An infant up to about 9 kg (20 Ibs) must be restrained in an infant seat or a convertible seat designed for a baby. Because infants must ride in a reclining position, be sure the infant seat always faces the REAR of the car as shown.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWe recommend that, whenever possible, you put the infant seat in the center position of the rear seat and secure it to the car with the lap belt.

If you decide to put an infant seat in any other seating position, make sure the infant seat is held securely by the locking mechanism of the lap/shoulder belt (sec page 24).

We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs)

Toddler seats are designed for children who weigh between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs).

Child Safety

The preferred place to put a toddler seat is in the center position of the rear seat. Use the car's lap belt to secure the seat to the car.

If you decide to put a toddler seat in an outside seating position, make sure the toddler seat is held securely by the locking mechanism of the lap/shoulder belt (see page 24).

If you are using a toddler seat in the front passenger's seat, move the passenger's seat as far back as possible before installing the child seat. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChild Safety

Restraining a Child Who Weighs Over 18 kg (40 Ibs)

We recommend that, whenever possible, a child who has outgrown a toddler seat ride in one of the outside positions of the rear seat and use a lap/shoulder belt.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Put the seat belt on your child and check its fit. The shoulder belt should fit over the collarbone and across the chest. The lap belt should sit low on your child's hips, not across the stomach.

If the shoulder belt crosses the neck, have your child move toward the center of the rear seat until the belt fits properly. If the belt still crosses the child's neck, you should use a booster seat.

Several styles of booster seats are available. We recommend a design that allows the child to use the car's lap/shoulder belt.

Whichever style you select, follow the booster seat manufacturer's instructions.

Securing a Child Seat with a Lap/ Shoulder Belt The lap/shoulder belt retractors in the passenger seating positions have a built-in locking mechanism intended to secure a child seat. If you are placing a child seat in one of the outside seating positions, do the following:

1. Place the child restraint in the

desired seating position. Route the lap/shoulder belt: through the seat according to the seat manufac- turer's instructions.

2. Insert the latch plate into the buckle. Make sure it is fully latched.

3. Slowly pull the shoulder portion of the belt out of the retractor until it stops.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst4. Allow the belt to slowly feed back into the retractor. You should hear a clicking noise that indicates the locking mechanism has engaged.

5. After the belt has retracted fully, pull up on the shoulder portion to remove any slack.

6. Push and pull on the child seat to

verify that it is held firmly in place. If not, unlatch the seat belt, allow it to retract fully, and repeat these steps.

To unlatch the seat belt, push the red PRESS button on (he buckle. Guide the belt across to the door pillar. If the belt doesn't retract easily, pull it out and check for twists or kinks.

Using Child Restraints with Tethers

Your Honda has three attachment points for tether-style child seats.

Select the attachment point you want to use and remove the plug with a small flat-tipped screwdriver or fingernail file.

Child Safety

Then install the tether hardware that came with the child seat. Tighten the bolt to: 22 N.m (2.2 kgf.m, 16 lbf.ft)

If you are not sure how to install the bracket, have it installed by your Honda dealer.

If you need an anchor plate and mounting hardware, you can obtain them by writing to:

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

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChild Safety

Canadian Cars

TOOTHED WASHER

Storing a Child Seat When you are not using an infant seat or other child restraint, either remove it or make sure it is properly secured so it cannot be thrown around the car during a crash.

The anchor plate and mounting hardware for a top tether are supplied with the car. When install- ing, make sure the toothed washer is on the bottom of the bolt.

The supplied anchor plate is designed only for mounting a child restraint. Do not use it for any other purpose.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAlcohol and Drugs

Driving a car requires your full at- tention and alertness. Traffic condi- tions change rapidly. You must be able to react just as rapidly. Alcohol or drugs directly affect your alert- ness and ability to react. Even pre- scription and non-prescription medi- cines can have this effect.

There are laws that deal with drunken driving. These laws define how much alcohol it takes in your system to be legally "drunk." How- ever, your judgment and reaction time get worse with every drink — even the first one.

The safest thing you can do is never drink and drive. This can be done if you plan ahead. If you know you are going to be drinking, make plans to ride with a friend who will not be drinking.

If you have no choice but to drive, stop drinking and give yourself lots of time to sober up. Time is the only thing that can make you sober. Things like coffee or a cold shower don't speed up the process.

What if you find that you've been drinking and cannot get a ride from a friend? Find alternative transpor- tation. Call a taxi. Take a bus. Many communities have transportation services devoted to shuttling people who have been drinking.

If you see friends trying to get behind the wheel after drinking, stop them. Drive them yourself or arrange other transportation. If you think you are interfering, remember that your interference will keep them from sharing the road with you.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCarbon Monoxide Hazard

Your car's exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas. You should have no problem with carbon monoxide entering the car in normal driving if you maintain your car properly. Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever:

The car is raised for an oil change. You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust. The car was in an accident that may have damaged the underside.

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and can even kill you.

Avoid any enclosed areas or activities that expose you to carbon monoxide.

High levels of carbon monoxide can collect rapidly in enclosed areas, such as a garage. Do not run the engine with the garage door closed. Even with the door open, run the engine only long enough to move the car out of the garage.

Driver and Passenger Safety

With the trunk lid open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your car's interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the trunk lid open, open all the windows and set the heating and cooling system as follows.

If you must sit in your parked car, even in an unconfined area, with the engine running, adjust the heating and cooling system as follows:

1. Select the Fresh Air mode. 2. Select the 3. Turn the fan on high speed. 4. Set the temperature control to a

mode.

comfortable setting.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThese labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully and don't remove them.

If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer for a replacement.

BATTERY

Safety Labels

RADIATOR CAP

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThis section gives information about the controls and displays that contribute to the daily operation of your Honda. All the essential controls are within easy reach.

Control Locations............................ 32
Indicator Lights................................ 33
Gauges.............................................. 37
Speedometer................................ 37
Tachometer.................................. 37
Odometer...................................... 37
Trip Meter.................................... 37
Fuel Gauge................................... 38
Temperature Gauge.................... 38
Maintenance Required

Indicator.................................... 39

Controls Near the Steering

Wheel........................................ 40
Headlights.................................... 41
Daytime Running Lights............. 41
Instrument Panel Brightness..... 42
Turn Signals................................. 42
Windshield Wipers...................... 43
Windshield Washers................... 43
Hazard Warning........................... 44
Rear Window Defogger.............. 44
Steering Wheel Adjustment....... 45
Steering Wheel Controls................ 46
Cruise Control.............................. 46
Keys and Locks................................ 49
Keys............................................... 49

Instruments and Controls

Ignition Switch............................. 49
Door Locks................................... 50
Power Door Locks....................... 51
Remote Transmitter.................... 52
Trunk............................................ 55
Seat Adjustments............................. 56
Front Seat Adjustments.............. 56
Rear Seat Access......................... 57
Head Restraints........................... 57
Folding Rear Seat............................ 58
Power Windows............................... 59
Moonroof.......................................... 61
Mirrors.............................................. 61
Adjusting the Power Mirrors..... 62
Parking Brake.................................. 62
Glove Box......................................... 63
Beverage Holder.............................. 64
Accessory Power Socket ................ 65
Ashtrays............................................ 65
Interior Light.................................... 66

Instruments and Controls

Main MenustMIRROR CONTROLS (P.62)

AUDIO SYSTEM, DIGITAL CLOCK (P.76, 81)

HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS (P.68)

Control Locations

DOOR LOCK SWITCHES (P.51)

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.59)

FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE (P.92)

TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE (P.55)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.93)

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe instrument panel has many indicators to give you important information about your car.

Lamp Check Many of the indicator lights come on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II), allowing you to see that they are working. If an indicator does not light during this test, it cannot alert you if that system develops a prob- lem. Have the dealer check your car for burned-out bulbs or other problems.

* The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian model are noted in the text.

* * The HX model with manual transmission has an upshift indicator

in this position.

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

Indicator Lights

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*

TRUNK-OPEN INDICATOR

LOW FUEL INDICATOR

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR**

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM

INDICATOR*

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Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIndicator Lights

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*

TRUNK-OPEN INDICATOR

LOW FUEL INDICATOR

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR