1997 Honda Civic Coupe Owners Manual

add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the pointer

Taking Care of the Unexpected

reaches the middle of the tempera- ture gauge, or lower, before check- ing the radiator.

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

9. Using gloves or a large heavy

cloth, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pushing down, to the first stop. This releases any remaining pressure in the cooling system. After the pressure releases, push down on the cap and turn it until it comes off.

10.Start the engine and set the temperature control lever to maximum. Add coolant to the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. If you do not have the proper coolant mixture available, you can add plain water. Remember to have the cooling system drained and refilled with the proper mixture as soon as you can.

11. Put the radiator cap back on

tightly. Run the engine and watch the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair. (See Towing on page 200.)

12.If the temperature stays normal,

check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. If it has gone down, add coolant to the MAX mark. Put the cap back on tightly.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstLOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

NOTICE

Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn off the engine as soon as you can safely get the car stopped.

1. Safely pull off the road and shut

off the engine. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.

2. Let the car sit for a minute. Open

the hood and check the oil level (see page 94). Although oil level and oil pressure are not directly connected, an engine that is very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

3. If necessary, add oil to bring the level back to the full mark on the dipstick (see page 132).

This indicator should light when the ignition is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. It should never come on when the engine is running. If it starts flashing, it indicates that the oil pressure dropped very low for a moment, then recovered. If the indicator stays on with the engine running, it shows that the engine has lost oil pressure and serious engine damage is possible. In either case, you should take immediate action.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

4. Start the engine and watch the oil

pressure indicator. If the light does not go out within ten seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving. (See Towing on page 200.)

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstImmediately turn off all electrical accessories: radio, heater, A/C, rear defogger, cruise control, etc. Try not to use other electrically-operated controls such as the power windows. Keep the engine running and take extra care not to stall it. Starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

By eliminating as much of the electrical load as possible, you can drive several miles before the battery is too discharged to keep the engine running. Drive to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

Charging System Indicator

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

This indicator should come on when 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If you have recently refueled your vehicle, the cause of this indicator coming on could be a loose or missing fuel fill cap. Check the cap and tighten it until it clicks. Replace the fuel fill cap if it is missing. Tightening the cap will not make the indicator turn off immediately; it takes three driving trips.

If the indicator remains on past three driving trips, or the fuel cap was not loose or missing, have the vehicle checked by the dealer as soon as possible. Drive moderately until the dealer has inspected the problem. Avoid full-throttle acceleration and driving at high speed.

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

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 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 damage.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

You should also have the dealer inspect your vehicle if this indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may turn off as you continue driving.

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.

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 out of the tool kit in

the trunk.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

INTERIOR

TAB

UNDER-HOOD

Fuses

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

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

Taking Care of the Unexpected

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 a blown fuse is not the cause. Replace any blown fuses and check the component's operation.

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.

FUSE

BLOWN

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.

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, 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 lowed, 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 50 miles (80 km), 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
Tire Information............................ 206
Tire Size Designation................ 206
Wheel Size Designation............ 206
Tire Speed Ratings.................... 206
Tire Pressure Adjustment For

High Speed Driving............... 207
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 207
Treadwear.............................. 207
Traction.................................. 208
Temperature.......................... 208

Technical Information

Emission Controls......................... 209
The Clean Air Act...................... 209
Crankcase Emission Control

System.................................... 209

Evaporative Emission Control

System.................................... 209
Exhaust Emission Controls...... 210
PGM-FI System..................... 210
Ignition Timing Control

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

Exhaust Gas Recirculation

(EGR) System.................... 210

Three Way Catalytic

Converter............................ 210
Replacement Parts..................... 210
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 211

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 149.

* 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 gal, 0.09 Imp gal)

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications

page 198

page 199

* 1 : Without moonroof * 2 : With moonroof

* 1 : U.S. DX, HX, Canada: DX * 2 : U.S. EX without ABS, Canada: Si without ABS * 3 : U.S. EX with ABS, Canada: Si with ABS

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

Tire Information

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 lire 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) 14 x 5 J

14 — Rim diameter in inches.

5 — Rim width in inches.

R — Tire construction code (Radial).

J — Rim contour designation.

14 — Rim diameter in inches.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

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.

Be sure to readjust the pressure for normal driving speeds. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire pressure (see page 157).

Tire 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.

CONTINUED

Technical Information

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

Tire Information

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.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

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 126.

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

Emission Controls

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.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstEmission Controls

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.

Technical Information

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.

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 takes 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 ), and water vapor. (N

), dinitrogen

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

Three Way Catalytic Converter

(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.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty and Customer Relations

Customer Relations

Information................................. 214
U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 215
Canada Zone Office Map.............. 216
Warranty Coverages..................... 217
Reporting Safety Defects

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

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main Menust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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 percent 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 1997 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 1997 Warranty Manual that came with your car.

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........................................ 142
Brake Fluid................................. 144
Clutch Fluid................................ 144
Engine Coolant........................... 136
Engine Oil................................... 132
Manual Transmission Fluid..... 143
Power Steering Fluid................. 145
Windshield Washer Fluid......... 141
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..................... 133
Adjustments

Headlights.................................. 162

Head Restraints........................... 57
Mirrors.......................................... 61
Seats.............................................. 56
Steering Wheel............................ 45
Airbag (SRS).................................... 12
Air Cleaner Element...................... 146
Air Conditioning............................... 68
Maintenance............................... 154
Usage............................................. 68
Air Outlets (Vents).......................... 70
Air Pressure, Tires........................ 156
Normal Driving.......................... 157
High Speed Driving................... 207
Alcohol and Drugs........................... 27
Alcohol in Gasoline.......................... 90
Antifreeze....................................... 136
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Indicator Light................... 35, 117
Operation.................................... 115

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 Position

Indicator.......................... 104, 109
Shift Lever Positions......... 104, 109
Shift Lock Release..................... 108

Battery

Charging System

Indicator.......................... 35, 192
Jump Starting............................. 187
Maintenance............................... 150
Specifications............................. 205
Before Driving................................. 89
Belts, Seat........................................... 5
Beverage Holder.............................. 64
Body Repair.................................... 178

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Brakes

Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 115
Break-in, New Linings................. 90
Fluid............................................ 143
Light, Burned-out...................... 167
Parking.......................................... 62
System Indicator.......................... 35
Wear Indicators......................... 114

Brakes, ABS

Operation.................................... 115
System Indicator................ 35, 117
Braking System.............................. 114
Break-in, New Car........................... 90
Brightness Control, Instruments... 42
Blights, Headlights......................... 41
Bulb Replacement

Back-up Lights........................... 168
Brake Lights............................... 167
Front Parking Lights................. 166
Front Side Marker Lights......... 166
Headlights.................................. 164
High-mount Brake Light.......... 169
Interior Light.............................. 170
License Plate Lights.................. 170
Rear Side Marker Lights.......... 167
Specifications............................. 205

Trunk Light................................ 171
Turn Signal Lights..................... 166
Bulbs, Halogen............................... 164

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............................................. 161
Change Oil

How to......................................... 134
When to....................................... 126
Changing a Flat Tire..................... 181
Changing Engine Coolant............. 138
Charging System Indicator ... 35, 192

Checking

Automatic Transmission

Fluid........................................ 141
Battery Condition...................... 150
Brake Fluid................................. 144
Clutch Fluid................................ 144
Drive Belts.................................. 155
Engine Coolant............................. 95
Engine Oil..................................... 94
Fuses........................................... 196
Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 143
Power Steering Fluid................. 145
Checklist, Before Driving............. 100
Child Safety...................................... 20
Cleaner, Air.................................... 146
Cleaning

Exterior....................................... 174
Interior........................................ 176
Seat Belts.................................... 176
Vinyl............................................ 176
Windows..................................... 177
Clock, Setting the ............................ 81
Clutch Fluid.................................... 144
CO in the Exhaust......................... 209
Cold Weather, Starting in............. 101
Compact Spare............................... 180

Main MenustIndex

Consumer Information*................ 214
Continuously Variable

Transmission (CVT)............. 109
Fluid............................................ 142
Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 109
Shift Lever Positions................. 109
Controls, Instruments and.............. 31
Coolant

Adding......................................... 136
Checking....................................... 95
Proper Solution.......................... 136
Replacing.................................... 138
Temperature Gauge.................... 38
Corrosion Protection..................... 177
Crankcase Emission Control

System........................................ 209
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® III Automatic

Transmission Fluid.................... 142
Dimensions..................................... 204
Dimming the Headlights................ 41
Dipstick

Automatic Transmission........... 142
Engine Oil..................................... 94
Directional Signals........................... 42
Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 200
Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 114
Disposal of Used Oil...................... 135
Doors

Locking and Unlocking............... 50
Power Door Locks....................... 51
DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 207
Downshifting, 5-speed Manual

Transmission.............................. 102
Drive Belts...................................... 155
Driving.............................................. 99
Economy....................................... 96
In Bad Weather.......................... 118
In Foreign Countries................... 91

Economy, Fuel................................. 96
Emergencies on the Road............. 179
Battery, Jump Starting.............. 187
Changing a Flat Tire................. 181
Charging System Indicator...... 192
Checking the Fuses................... 196
Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 191
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 193
Manually Closing Moonroof.... 194
Overheated Engine................... 189
Emergency Brake............................ 62
Emergency Flashers....................... 44
Emission Controls......................... 209
Engine

Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 38
Malfunction Indicator

Lamp............................... 35, 193
Oil Pressure Indicator........ 35, 191
Oil, What Kind to Use............... 132
Overheating................................ 189
Specifications............................. 204
Ethanol in Gasoline ......................... 91

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Evaporative Emission Controls.... 209
Exhaust Fumes................................ 28
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............................................... 146
Oil................................................ 134

5-speed Manual Transmission

Checking Fluid Level................ 143
Shifting the................................. 102
Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 44
Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 180
Fluids

Automatic Transmission........... 141
Brake........................................... 144
Clutch......................................... 144
Manual Transmission............... 143

Power Steering........................... 145
Windshield Washer................... 141

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...................... 196

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.............. 164
Hazard Warning Flashers............... 44
Headlights

Aiming......................................... 162
Daytime Running Lights............. 41
High Beam Indicator................... 35
High Beams, Turning on............ 41
Low Beams, Turning on ............. 41
Reminder Beeper......................... 41
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 164
Turning on.................................... 41

Main MenustHead Restraints............................... 57
Heating and Cooling........................ 68
High Altitude, Starting at.............. 101
High-Low Beam Switch .................. 41
High-mount Brake Light............... 169
Hood, Opening the .......................... 93
Horn................................................... 40
Hot Coolant, Warning about........ 136
Hydraulic Clutch............................ 144
Hydroplaning.................................. 119

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

Keys............................................... 49
Switch........................................... 49
Timing Control System............. 210

Indicator Lights, Instrument

Panel............................................. 33
Infant Restraint................................ 22
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 156
Normal Driving.......................... 157
High Speed Driving................... 207
Inside Mirror.................................... 61

Index

Inspection, Tire.............................. 158
Instrument Panel............................. 32
Instrument Panel Brightness......... 42
Interior Cleaning............................ 176
Interior Light.................................... 66
Introduction......................................... i

Jacking up the Car......................... 182
Jack, Tire........................................ 181
Jump Starting................................. 187

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

Indicator........................................ 33
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......................... 136
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
Lights

Bulb Replacement..................... 164

Maintenance................................... 121
Owner Maintenance Checks.... 130
Periodic Items............................ 130
Record.................................. 128-129
Required Indicator....................... 39

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Maintenance

Safety.......................................... 122
Schedule.............................. 126-127
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 35, 193
Manual Transmission.................... 102
Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 143
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......................... 134
Change, When to....................... 126
Checking Engine......................... 94
Pressure Indicator.............. 35, 191
Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart....................................... 133
ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 50
Opening the Hood ........................... 93
Opening the Trunk.......................... 55
Operation in Foreign Countries..... 91
Outside Mirrors............................... 61
Overheating, Engine..................... 189
Owner Maintenance Checks........ 130

Panel Brightness Control............... 42
Park Gear Position......................... 105
Parking............................................ 113
Parking Brake.................................. 62
Parking Eights.................................. 41
Parking Over Things that Burn... 211
PGM-FI System.............................. 210

Polishing and Waxing................... 174
Power

Door Locks................................... 51
Mirrors.......................................... 62
Steering....................................... 145
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... 167
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 Element.................. 146
Coolant....................................... 138
Engine Oil and Filter................. 134

Main MenustReplacement Information

Fuses........................................... 196
Light Bulbs................................. 164
Schedule..................................... 126
Spark Plugs................................. 148
Timing Belt................................. 155
Tires............................................ 159
Wiper Blades.............................. 152

Replacing Seat Belts After a

Crash............................................ 11

Reserve Tank, Engine

Coolant................................ 95, 136
Restraint, Child................................ 20
Reverse Gear Position................... 106
Rotation, Tire................................. 159

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............................ 126
Service Manual* ............................ 219
Service Station Procedures ............ 92
Setting the Clock............................. 81
Shifting

The Automatic Transmission .. 103
The CVT..................................... 109
The 5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 102
Shift Lever Position Indicator...... 109
Shift Lock Release......................... 108
Side Marker Lights, Bulb

Replacement in.......................... 166
Signaling Turns................................ 42
Snow Tires...................................... 161

Index

Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 174
Sound System................................... 76
Spare Tire

Inflating....................................... 180
Specifications............................. 205
Spark Plugs, Replacing................. 148
Specifications Charts..................... 204
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............................ 172

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

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................................... 133

Tachometer...................................... 37
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 167
Taking Care of the Unexpected ..179
Tape Player....................................... 82
Technical Descriptions

Emission Control Systems........ 209
Three Way Catalytic

Converter................................ 211
Tire Information........................ 206
Temperature Gauge........................ 38
Tether Attachment Points.............. 25
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 211
Time, Setting the............................. 81
Timing Belt..................................... 155
Tire Chains..................................... 161

Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 181
Tires................................................ 156
Air Pressure............................... 156
Checking Wear.......................... 158
Compact Spare........................... 180
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 207
Inflation....................................... 156
Inspection................................... 158
Maintenance............................... 158
Replacing.................................... 159
Rotating....................................... 159
Snow............................................ 161
Specifications............................. 205
Technical Information.............. 206
Technical Information................... 201
Tools,Tire Changing.................... 181
Torn Seat Belts................................ 11
Towing

A Trailer...................................... 119
By Emergency Wrecker........... 200

Transmission

Checking Fluid Level,

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

Checking Fluid Level,

Manual.................................... 143
Fluid Selection............................ 142

Identification Number............... 203
Shifting the Automatic.............. 104
Shifting the CVT........................ 109
Shifting the Manual................... 102
Treadwear...................................... 207
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..... 207
Unleaded Gasoline........................... 90
Upholstery Cleaning...................... 176
Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 135

Vehicle Capacity Load .................... 98
Vehicle Dimensions....................... 204
Vehicle Identification Number..... 202

Main MenustIndex

* : U.S. and Canada only

Windows

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

Windshield

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

Wipers, Windshield

Changing Blades........................ 152
Operation...................................... 43
Worn Tires..................................... 158
Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 200

Vehicle Storage.............................. 172
Ventilation......................................... 71
VIN................................................. 202
Vinyl Cleaning................................ 176
Viscosity, Oil................................... 133

Warning Beepers

Headlights on............................... 41
Key in Ignition.............................. 50
Seat Belts...................................... 34
WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii Warning Labels, Location of.......... 29
Warranty Coverages*................... 217
Washer, Windshield

Checking the Fluid Level......... 141
Operation...................................... 43
Washing.......................................... 174
Waxing and Polishing................... 174
Wheels

Adjusting the Steering................ 45
Alignment and Balance............. 158
Compact Spare........................... 180
Wrench....................................... 182

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: API SJ or SH grade "Energy Conserving" or "Energy Conserving II" oil SAE 5W-30 viscosity

Tire Pressure (measured cold): Front:

210 kPa (2.1 kgf/cm2, 30 psi)

Rear:

200 kPa (2.0 kgf/cm2, 29 psi)

Spare Tire Pressure: 420 kPa (4.2 kgf/cm2, 60 psi)

Automatic Transmission Fluid: Honda Premium Formula Auto- matic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

HX model (CVT) only: Use Honda CVT Fluid only

Main Menust