1996 Honda Civic Coupe Owners Manual

the ignition is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. If it comes on brightly when the engine is running, it indicates that the charging system has stopped charging the battery.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

If this indicator light comes on, have your car checked by the dealer as soon as possible. Drive moderately until the dealer has inspected the problem. Avoid full-throttle accelera- tion and driving at high speed.

NOTICE

If you keep driving with the malfunc- tion indicator lamp on, you can damage your car's emission controls and engine. Those repairs may not be covered by your car's warranties.

This indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it indicates that one of the engine's emissions control systems may have a problem. Even though you may feel no difference in your car's performance, it can reduce your fuel economy and cause your car to put out excessive emissions. Continued operation may cause serious engine damage.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstClosing the Moonroof

If the electric motor will not close the moonroof, do the following:

ROUND PLUG

SOCKET

4. Use a screwdriver or coin to remove the round plug in the center of the headliner.

5. Insert the moonroof wrench into the socket behind this plug. Turn the wrench until the moonroof is fully closed.

6. Remove the wrench. Replace the

round plug.

1. Check the fuse for the moonroof motor (see page 195). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating.

2. Try closing the moonroof. If the

new fuse blows immediately or the moonroof motor still does not operate, you can close the moonroof manually.

3. Get the tool kit out of the trunk.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstINTERIOR

TAB

UNDER-HOOD

Fuses

All the electrical circuits in your car have fuses to protect them from a short circuit or overload. These fuses are located in two or three fuse boxes.

The interior fuse box is underneath the dashboard on the driver's side. Remove the fuse box lid by swinging the lid down and pulling it straight out of its hinges.

The under-hood fuse box is located in the engine compartment next to the battery. To open it, push the tab as shown.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFuses

ABS FUSE BOX

FUSE

Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your car stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages 198 and 199, or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that component. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that is not the cause. Replace any blown fuses and check the component's operation.

BLOWN

Cars equipped with ABS have a third fuse box for the ABS. It is in the engine compartment on the passen- ger's side.

1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Make sure the headlights and all other accessories are off.

2. Remove the cover from the fuse

box.

3. Check each of the large fuses in

the under-hood fuse box by looking through the top at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screw- driver.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFUSE PULLER

BLOWN

4. Check the smaller fuses in the under-hood fuse box and all the fuses in the interior fuse box by pulling out each fuse with the fuse puller provided in the interior fuse box.

5. Look for a burned wire inside the fuse. If it is burned out, replace it with one of the spare fuses of the same rating or lower.

If you cannot drive the car without fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the accessory socket or radio).

Fuses

If you replace the blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating, it might blow out again. This does not indicate anything wrong. Replace the fuse with one of the correct rating as soon as you can.

NOTICE

Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances of damaging the electrical system. If you do not have a replace- ment fuse with the proper rating for the circuit, install one with a lower rating.

6. If the replacement fuse of the

same rating blows in a short time, there is probably a serious electrical problem in your car. Leave the blown fuse in that circuit and have your car checked by a qualified technician.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFuses

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

Taking Care of the Unexpected

* : On Canadian cars

Main MenuTable of ContentsstUNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX

ABS FUSE BOX

Fuses

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing

If your car needs to be towed, call a professional towing service or, if you belong to one, an organization that provides roadside assistance. Never tow your car behind another car with just a rope or chain. It is very dangerous.

Emergency Towing There are three popular methods of towing a car:

Flat-bed Equipment — The operator loads your car on the back of a truck. This is the best way of trans- porting your Honda.

Wheel Lift Equipment — The tow truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the tires (front or rear) and lift them off the ground. The other two tires remain on the ground.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Sling-type Equipment — The tow truck uses metal cables with hooks on the ends. These hooks go around parts of the frame or suspension and the cables lift that end of the car off the ground. Your car's suspension and body can be seriously damaged if this method of towing is attempted.

If your Honda cannot be transported by flat-bed, it should be towed with the front wheels off the ground. If due to damage, your car must be towed with the front wheels on the ground, do the following:

5-speed Manual Transmission and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Release the parking brake. Shift the transmission to Neutral.

Automatic Transmission:

Release the parking brake. Start the engine. Shift to D4. then to N. Turn off the engine.

NOTICE

Improper towing preparation will damage the transmission. Follow the above procedure exactly. IF you cannot shift the transmission or start the engine (automatic transmission), your car must be transported on a flat-bed.

It is best to tow the car no farther than 80 km (50 miles), and keep the speed below 35 mph (55
km/h).

If your car is equipped with a front spoiler, remove it before towing so it is not damaged.

NOTICE

Trying to lift or tow your car by the bumpers will cause serious damage. The bumpers are not designed to support the car's weight.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe diagrams in this section give you the dimensions and capacities of your Honda, and the locations of the identification numbers. The expla- nations of several electronic and mechanical systems on your Honda are for the more technically-oriented owner.

Identification Numbers................. 202
Specifications................................. 204
Anti-lock Brake System................ 206
Tire Information............................ 207
Tire Size Designation................ 207
Wheel Size Designation............ 207
Tire Speed Ratings.................... 207
Tire Pressure Adjustment For

High Speed Driving............... 208
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 208
Treadwear.............................. 208
Traction.................................. 209
Temperature.......................... 209

Technical Information

Emission Controls......................... 210
The Clean Air Act...................... 210
Crankcase Emission Control

System.....................................210

Evaporative Emission Control

System.....................................210
Exhaust Emission Controls...... 211
PGM-FI System..................... 211
Ignition Timing Control

System.................................211

Exhaust Gas Recirculation

(EGR) System.................... 211

Three Way Catalytic

Converter............................ 211
Replacement Parts..................... 211
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 212

Technical Information

Main MenustIdentification Numbers

Your car has several identifying numbers located in various places.

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the 17-digit number your Honda dealer uses to register your car for warranty purposes. It is also necessary for licensing and insuring your car. The easiest place to find the VIN is on a plate fastened to the top of the dashboard. You can see it by looking through the windshield on the driver's side. It is also on the Certification label attached to the driver's doorjamb, and is stamped on the engine compartment bulkhead. The VIN is also provided in bar code on the Certification label.

Technical Information

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

CERTIFICATION LABEL

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Engine Number is stamped into the engine block.

The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission.

TRANSMISSION NUMBER

Identification Numbers

ENGINE NUMBER

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications

page 148

* 1 : DX * 2 : U.S. HX, EX, Canada: Si * 3 : U.S. DX, HX, Canada: DX * 4 : U.S. EX, Canada: Si

Technical Information

* 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the

engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.4

* 2 : DX * 3 : U.S.: HX, EX, Canada: Si * 4 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine. * 5 : Canadian Cars *6 : U.S.: HX (CVT)

(0.11 US g a l, 0.09 Imp gal)

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications

page 198

page 199

* 1 : Without moonroof * 2 : With moonroof

* 2 : U.S.: HX, EX, Canada: Si

* 1 : DX * 3 : U.S. DX, HX, Canada: DX * 4 : U.S. EX, Canada: Si * 6 : U.S. HX with ABS, EX with ABS, Canada: Si with ABS

*5 : DX with ABS

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsstbrake line to that wheel.

The control unit also contains error detection circuitry. It monitors the operation of the wheel sensors, solenoids, pump motor, and elec- tronics. If the control unit detects any faults, it shuts off power to the pump motor and solenoids, disabling the ABS. The indicator on the instru- ment panel comes on. The brakes then work like a conventional system without anti-lock capabilities.

Anti-lock Brake System

Only on cars equipped with ABS The ABS works by measuring how fast the wheels are turning during braking and comparing their speeds. If any wheel is rotating much slower than the others (on the verge of locking up and skidding), the system reduces hydraulic pressure to that wheel's brake. When (hat wheel's speed matches the other wheels, the system applies normal hydraulic pressure. This can take place several times per second at each wheel. You feel the ABS working as rapid pulsations in the brake pedal.

Technical Information

Each wheel has a wheel speed sensor assembly. As the wheel rotates, the sensor sends electrical pulses to the ABS control unit. The pulse frequency varies with the wheel speed.

The electrical output of the ABS control unit is connected to the modulator/solenoid unit. While driving, the ABS control unit monitors the pulse frequencies from the four wheels. When the control unit detects a wheel locking up, it energizes the solenoids in the modulator unit for that wheel. The system has eight solenoids which work in pairs. The energized solenoids effectively increase the chamber volume of the brake line, thereby reducing hydraulic pressure to that wheel's brake. When that wheel speeds up because of the re- duced braking effort, the control unit de-energizes the solenoids. Hydraulic pressure increases in the

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTire Size Designation A tire's sidewall is marked with a tire size designation. You will need this information when selecting replace- ment tires for your car. The follow- ing explains what the letters and numbers in the tire size designation mean.

(Example tire size designation) P185/65R14 85S

P — Applicable vehicle type (tires marked with the prefix "P" are intended for use on passenger cars; however, not all tires have this marking).

185 — Tire width in millimeters.

65 — Aspect ratio. The tire's section height as a percentage of its width.

85 — Load Index, a numerical code associated with the maximum load the tire can carry.

S — Speed Rating Symbol. See the speed rating chart in this section for additional information.

Wheel Size Designation Wheels are also marked with important information that you need if you ever have to replace one. The following explains what the letters and numbers in the wheel size designation mean.

(Example wheel size designation) 14x5J

14 — Rim diameter in inches.

5 — Rim width in inches.

R — Tire construction code (Radial).

J — Rim contour designation.

14 — Rim diameter in inches.

Tire Information

Tire Speed Ratings The chart below shows many of the different speed ratings currently being used for passenger car tires. The speed rating symbol is part of the tire size designation on the sidewall of the tire. This symbol corresponds to that tire's designed maximum safe operating speed.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTire Information

Tire Pressure Adjustment For High Speed Driving Honda strongly recommends that you not drive faster than posted speed limits and conditions allow. If you decide it is safe to drive at high speeds, be sure to adjust the cold tire pressures as shown below. If you do not adjust the tire pressure, exces- sive heat can build up and cause sudden tire failure.

(DX)

Technical Information

Treadwear The treadwear grade is a compara- tive rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one half (1-1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual condi- tions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

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

Be sure to readjust the pressure lor normal driving speeds. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire pressure (see page 156).

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars) The tires on your car meet all U.S. Federal Safety Requirements. All tires are also graded for treadwear, traction, and temperature perform- ance according to Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. The following explains these gradings.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTraction The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B, and C, and they represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

Warning: The traction grade as- signed to this tire is based on brak- ing (straight ahead) traction tests and does not include cornering (turning) traction.

Temperature The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

Tire Information

Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not over- loaded. Excessive speed, unclerinfla- tion, or excessive loading either separately or in combination, can cause heat build-up and possible tire failure.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstEmission Controls

The burning of gasoline in your car's engine produces several byproducts. Some of these are carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline evaporating from the tank also produces hydrocarbons. Controlling the production of NOx, CO, and HC is important to the environment. Under certain conditions of sunlight and climate, NOx and HC react to form photochemical "smog." Carbon monoxide does not contribute to smog creation, but it is a poisonous gas.

Technical Information

The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Act* sets standards for automobile emissions. It also requires that automobile manufacturers explain to owners how their emission controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emission controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 124.

* In Canada, Honda vehicles comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) for Emissions valid at the time they are manufactured.

Crankcase Emission Control System Your car has a Positive Crankcase Ventilation System. This keeps gasses that build up in the engine's crankcase from going into the atmosphere. The Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve routes them from the crankcase back to the intake manifold. They are then drawn into the engine and burned.

Evaporative Emission Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emission control canister filled with charcoal adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this canister while the engine is off. After the engine is started and warmed up, the vapor is drawn into the engine and burned during driving.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstExhaust Emission Controls The exhaust emission controls include three systems: PGM-FI, Ignition Timing Control and Three Way Catalytic Converter. These three systems work together to control the engine's combustion and minimize the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust emission control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emission control systems.

PGM-FI System The PGM-FI System uses sequential multiport fuel injection. It has three subsystems: Air Intake, Engine Control, and Fuel Control. The Engine Control Module (ECM)/ Powertrain Control Module (PCM- A /T only) uses various sensors to determine how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all operat- ing conditions.

Ignition Timing Control System This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing, reducing the amount of HC, CO and NOx produced.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System Only on HX model The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system lakes some of the exhaust gas and routes it back into the intake manifold. Adding exhaust gas to the air/fuel mixture reduces the amount of NOx produced when the fuel is burned.

Three Way Catalytic Converter The three way catalytic converter is in the exhaust system. Through chemical reactions, it converts HC, CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO (N ), and water vapor.

), dinitrogen

Emission Controls

Replacement Parts The emission control systems are designed and certified to work to- gether in reducing emissions to levels that comply with the Clean Air Act. To make sure the emissions remain low, you should use only new genuine Honda replacement parts or their equivalent for repairs. Using lower quality parts may increase the emissions from your car.

The emissions control systems are covered by warranties separate from the rest of your car. Read your warranty manual for more informa- tion.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThree Way Catalytic Converter

The three way catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gasses without affecting the metals. The catalytic converter is referred to as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Honda part or its equivalent.

The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take place. It can set on fire any com- bustible materials that come near it. Park your car away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flammables.

Technical Information

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

(U.S.: DX, HX, Canada: DX)

THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engine's per- formance. Follow these guidelines to protect your car's three way catalytic converter.

THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER

Keep the engine tuned-up.

Have your car diagnosed and repaired if it is misfiring, back- firing, stalling, or otherwise not running properly.

Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty and Customer Relations

Warranty Coverages..................... 214
Customer Relations

Information................................. 215
U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 216
Canada Zone Office Map.............. 217
Reporting Safety Defects

(U.S. Cars).................................. 218
Authorized Manuals...................... 219

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenustWarranty Coverages

U.S. Owners Your new Honda is covered by these warranties:

Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered for the useful life of the car.

New Car Limited Warranty — covers your new car, except for the battery, emissions control systems and accessories, against defects in materials and workmanship.

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