1998 Honda Civic Coupe Owners Manual

This indicator reminds you that it is nearing 7,500 miles (12,000 km) since the last scheduled maintenance. Refer to the Maintenance Schedules for Normal and Severe Driving Conditions on pages 146 — 150.

Gauges

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

The two levers on the steering column contain controls for driving features you use most often. The left lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams. The right lever controls the windshield washers and wipers.

The rear window defogger switch is on the dashboard to the right of the center air vents.

The controls under the left air vent are for the moonroof, mirrors, cruise control and instrument panel brightness.

The tilt adjustment lever on the underside of the steering column allows you to tilt the steering wheel.

Instruments and Controls

CRUISE CONTROL

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

MOONROOF

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/ WASHERS

MIRROR CONTROLS

HEADLIGHTS/ TURN SIGNALS

TILT ADJUSTMENT

HORN

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

Headlights

If you leave the lights on with the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0), you will hear a reminder beeper when you open the driver's door.

" position turns

The rotating switch on the left lever controls the lights. Turning this switch to the " on the parking lights, taillights, instrument panel lights, side-marker lights, and rear license plate lights. Turning the switch to the " position turns on the headlights.

To change between low beams and high beams, pull the turn signal lever until you hear a click, then let go. The blue high beam indicator will light (see page 53).

To flash the high beams, pull the turn signal lever back lightly, then release it. The high beams will come on and go off.

The high beams will stay on for as long as you hold the lever back, no matter what position the headlight switch is in.

Daytime Running Lights (Canadian Models) With the headlight switch off, the high beam headlights come on with reduced brightness when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II) and release the parking brake. They remain on until you turn the ignition off, even if you set the parking brake.

The headlights revert to normal operation when you turn them on with the switch.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

Instrument Panel Brightness

Turn Signals

To signal a lane change, push lightly on the turn signal lever in the proper direction and hold it. The lever will return to the center position as soon as you release it.

The dial on the dashboard to the left of the instrument panel controls the brightness of the instrument panel lights. Turn the dial to adjust the brightness.

TURN SIGNAL LEVER

Signal a turn or lane change with this lever. Push down on the lever to signal a left turn, and up to signal a right turn. If you push it up or down all the way, the turn signal continues to blink even when you release the lever. It shuts off automatically as you complete the turn.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWindshield Wipers

Windshield Washers

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

The right lever controls the wind- shield wipers and washers. The rotary switch at the end of the lever has three positions: INT: intermittent

: low speed : high speed

In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. In low speed and high speed, the wipers run continu- ously.

To operate the wipers in mist mode, push the control lever down. The wipers run at high speed until you release the lever. This gives you a quick way to clear the windshield.

To clean the windshield, pull back on the wiper control lever. The washers spray until you release the lever.

On Canadian models The wipers run at low speed while you're pulling the lever, then complete one more sweep of the windshield after you release it.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

Hazard Warning

Rear Window Defogger

Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive.

The defogger wires on the inside of the rear window can be accidentally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side to side.

Push the red button to the left of the center vents to turn on the hazard warning lights (four-way flashers). This causes all four outside turn signals and both indicators in the instrument panel to flash. Use the hazard warning lights if you need to park in a dangerous area near heavy traffic, or if your vehicle is disabled.

The rear window defogger will clear fog, frost, and thin ice from the window. Push the defogger button to turn it on and off. The light in the button lights to show the defogger is on. If you do not turn it off, the defogger will shut itself off after about 25 minutes. It also shuts off when you turn off the ignition. You have to turn it on again when you restart the vehicle.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSteering Wheel Adjustment See page 16 for important safety information about how to properly position the steering wheel. You can adjust the steering wheel height to suit your preference. Do this before you begin driving.

Adjusting the steering wheel position while driving may cause you to lose control of the vehicle and be seriously injured in a crash.

Adjust the steering wheel only when the vehicle is stopped.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

3. Push the lever up to lock the

steering wheel in that position.

4. Make sure you have securely

locked the steering wheel in place by trying to move it up and down.

1. The lever to tilt the steering wheel

is under the steering column to the left. Push this lever all the way down.

2. Move the steering wheel to the

desired position, making sure the wheel points toward your chest, not toward your face. Make sure you can see the instrument panel gauges and the indicator lights.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSteering Wheel Controls

Cruise Control On EX model in the U.S., and Si model in Canada Cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. It should be used for cruising on straight, open highways. It is not recommended for conditions such as city driving, winding roads, slippery roads, heavy rain, or bad weather. You should have full control of the vehicle under those conditions.

Improper use of the cruise control can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control only when traveling on open highways in good weather.

Instruments and Controls

NOTICE

Using the Cruise Control

The cruise control, as it operates, moves the accelerator pedal. You can damage your vehicle's accelerator mechanism by resting your foot under the pedal and blocking the movement.

1. Push in the Cruise Control Master

Switch to the left of the steering column. The indicator in the switch will light.

2. Accelerate to the desired cruising

speed above 25 mph (40 km/h).

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging the Set Speed You can increase the set cruising speed in either of two ways:

Press and hold the RESUME/ accel button. The vehicle will accelerate slowly. When you reach the desired cruising speed, release the button.

Push on the accelerator pedal. Ac- celerate to the desired cruising speed and press the SET/decel button.

Steering Wheel Controls

You can decrease the set cruising speed in either of two ways:

Press and hold the SET/decel button. The vehicle will decelerate. Release the button when you reach the desired speed.

Tap the brake or clutch pedal lightly with your foot. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out. When the vehicle slows to the desired speed, press the SET/ decel button. The vehicle will then maintain the desired speed.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

RESUME/ accel

SET/decel

3. Press and hold the SET/decel

button on the steering wheel until the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel comes on. This shows the system is now activated.

The cruise control may not hold the set speed when you are going up and down hills.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSteering Wheel Controls

Even with the cruise control turned on, you can still use the accelerator pedal to speed up for passing. After completing the pass, take your foot off the accelerator pedal. The vehicle will return to the set cruising speed.

Resting your foot on the brake or clutch pedal will cause the cruise control to cancel.

Instruments and Controls

Cancelling the Cruise Control You can cancel the cruise control in any of these ways:

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

Press the SET/decel and RE- SUME/accel buttons at the same time.

Press the Cruise Control Master Switch.

When you tap the brake or clutch pedal, or press the SET and RE- SUME buttons at the same time, the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out and the vehicle will begin to slow down. You can use the accelerator pedal in the normal way.

If you use the brake or clutch pedal to cancel cruise control, the system remembers the previously-set cruising speed. To return to that

speed, accelerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h) and press the RESUME/ accel button until the CRUISE CON- TROL light comes on. The vehicle will accelerate to the same cruising speed as before.

If you cancel cruise control by pressing the SET and RESUME buttons at the same time, the previously-set cruising speed is erased. To use the cruise control, accelerate to the desired cruising speed and press the SET/decel button.

Pressing the Cruise Control Master Switch turns the system completely off and erases the previous cruising speed from memory. To use the system again, refer to Using the Cruise Control.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstKeys

KEY NUMBER PLATE

VALET KEY

MASTER KEY

Your vehicle comes with two kinds of keys: a master key and a valet key. The master key fits all the locks on your vehicle:

Ignition Doors Trunk Trunk release handle Rear seat trunk access

The valet key works only in the ignition and the door locks. You can keep the trunk, trunk release handle and rear seat trunk access locked when you leave your vehicle and valet key at a parking facility. (See Trunk, page 55.)

You should have received a key number plate with your set of keys. You will need this key number if you ever have to get a lost key replaced. Keep the plate stored in a safe place.

When replacing keys, use only Honda-approved key blanks.

Remote Transmitter On U.S. EX model Your vehicle also comes with two remote transmitters; see page 52 for an explanation of the operation.

Keys and Locks

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is on the right side of the steering column. It has four positions:

LOCK (0) ACCESSORY (I) ON (ID START (III)

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstKeys and Locks

LOCK (0) — You can insert or remove the key only in this position. To switch from ACCESSORY to LOCK, you must push the key in slightly as you turn it. If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, it must also be in Park. The anti-theft lock will lock the steering column when you remove the key. If the front wheels are turned, the anti-theft lock may sometimes make it difficult to turn the key from LOCK to ACCESSORY. Firmly turn the steering wheel to the left or to the right as you turn the key.

Removing the key from the ignition switch while driving locks the steering. This can cause you to lose control.

Remove the key from the ignition switch only when parked.

Instruments and Controls

ACCESSORY (I) — In this position, you can operate the audio system and the accessory power socket.

Door Locks

ON (II) — This is the normal key position when driving. All features and accessories on the vehicle are usable. Several of the lights on the instrument panel come on as a test when you turn the ignition switch from ACCESSORY to ON (see page 51).

START (III) — Use this position only to start the engine. The switch returns to ON (II) when you let go of the key.

You will hear a reminder beeper if you leave the key in the ignition switch in the LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I) position and open the driver's door. Remove the key to turn off the beeper.

Each door has a lock tab next to the inside door handle. Push the tab in to lock the door and pull it out to unlock.

To lock the passenger's door when getting out of the vehicle, push the lock tab in and close the door. To lock the driver's door, pull the door handle and push the lock tab in. Release the handle, then close the door.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPower Door Locks

Keys and Locks

Both doors lock when you push the lock tab on the driver's door in, or lock the driver's door from the outside with the key. Only the driver's door unlocks when you use the key or lock tab. To unlock the passenger's door, use the master door lock switch or the lock tab on the passen- ger's door.

The doors can also be locked and unlocked from the outside with the key.

MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

On HX and EX models in the U.S., and Si model in Canada The master door lock switch allows control of both door locks from the driver's door. Push the switch down to lock both doors, and up to unlock them.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstKeys and Locks

Remote Transmitter

LED

UNLOCK BUTTON

LOCK BUTTON

OPTION BUTTON

PANIC BUTTON

On EX model in the U.S. You can lock and unlock your vehicle with the remote transmitter. When you push the LOCK button, both doors lock.

When you push the UNLOCK button once, only the driver's door unlocks. The passenger's door unlocks when you push the button a second time.

Instruments and Controls

The interior light (if the interior light switch is in the center position) will come on when you press the UNLOCK button. If you do not open either door, the light will go out in about 30 seconds and the doors will automatically relock. If you relock the doors with the remote transmitter before 30 seconds have elapsed, the light will go off immediately.

If you installed a non-Honda radio in your vehicle, the keyless entry system and the interior light will no longer work.

You cannot lock or unlock the doors with the remote transmitter if either door is not fully closed or the key is in the ignition switch.

Horn Operation You can program the remote transmitter to have the horn beep when you lock and unlock the doors. It will beep once when you lock the doors, and twice when you unlock them.

To turn this feature on and off, press the OPTION and LOCK buttons at the same time for two seconds. If you are turning the horn on, the remote transmitter's LED will come on for one second. If you are turning the horn off, the LED will blink twice. Release the buttons after the LED goes out.

The horn feature will be off after you install a new battery in the remote transmitter. Use the above procedure to turn it on again.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPanic Mode Panic mode allows you to remotely sound your vehicle's horn to attract attention. To activate this mode, press and hold the PANIC button for about one second. Your vehicle's horn will beep for about 30 seconds.

To cancel PANIC mode before 30
seconds, press any button on the remote transmitter. You can also turn the ignition switch to ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).

Panic mode will not activate if the ignition switch is in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).

Replacing the Battery

Open

Close

Keys and Locks

ROUND COVER

CUSHION RING

BATTERY

When the remote transmitter's battery begins to get weak, it may take several pushes on the button to lock or unlock the doors, and the LED will get dim. Replace the battery as soon as possible.

Battery type: CR2025

To replace the battery, remove the round cover on the back of the trans- mitter by turning it counterclockwise with a coin.

Remove the old battery and note the polarity. Make sure the polarity of the new battery is the same (+ side facing up), then insert it in the transmitter.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstKeys and Locks

Reinstall the 0-ring. Align the

mark on the cover with the mark on the transmitter,

then set the cover in place and turn it clockwise.

After the battery is changed, the transmitter must be synchronized with the main unit. With the doors and trunk lid closed, press either the LOCK or UNLOCK button six times.

Test the transmitter by locking and unlocking the doors several times.

Instruments and Controls

Transmitter Care Avoid severe shock to the trans- mitter, such as dropping or throwing it. Also, protect it from extreme hot or cold temperatures.

Clean the transmitter case with a soft cloth. Do not use strong cleaners or solvents that could harm the case. Immersing the transmitter in any liquid will harm the trans- mitter and cause it to not function properly.

Use the ring on the transmitter to attach it to your main key ring. You could damage the transmitter if you try to use its ring as a key ring.

If you lose a transmitter, you will need to have the replacement programmed to your vehicle's system by your Honda dealer. Any other transmitters you have will also need to be reprogrammed.

As required by the FCC: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTrunk

Keys and Locks

TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE

MASTER KEY

MASTER KEY

You can open the trunk in two ways:

Pull the trunk release handle to the left of the driver's seat.

Use the master key to open the trunk lock. The valet key does not work in this lock.

To close the trunk, press down on the trunk lid.

See page 98 for cargo loading and weight limit information. Keep the trunk lid closed at all times while driving to avoid damaging the lid, and to prevent exhaust gas from getting into the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 47.

To protect items in the trunk when you need to give the key to someone else, lock the trunk release handle with the master key and give the other person the valet key.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSeat Adjustments

Front Seat Adjustments

To change the angle of the seat-back, pull up on the lever on the outside of the seat bottom. Move the seat-back to the desired position and release the lever. Let the seat-back latch in the new position.

See pages 10 — 11 for important safety information and warnings about how to properly position seats and seat-backs. Adjust the seat before you start driving. To adjust the seat forward and backward, pull up on the lever under the seat cushion's front edge. Move the seat to the desired position and release the lever. Try to move the seat to make sure it is locked in position.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSeat Adjustments

Rear Seat Access

RELEASE LEVER

Head Restraints

On HX and EX models in the U.S., and DX and Si models in Canada Push the passenger's seat-back while pushing the release lever to tilt the seat-back out of the way. The entire seat will slide forward at the same time.

To get into the back seat on the driver's side, pull up on the seat-back adjustment lever.

To tilt the passenger's seat-back out of the way, push forward on the release lever at the base of the seat- back.

RELEASE BUTTON

See page 12 for important safety information and a warning about how to properly position the head restraints. The front head restraints help protect you and your passenger from whiplash and other injuries. They are most effective when you adjust them so the back of the occupant's head rests against the center of the restraint. A taller person should adjust the restraint as high as possible.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSeat Adjustments, Folding Rear Seat

The front head restraints adjust for height. You need both hands to adjust the restraint. Do not attempt to adjust it while driving. To raise it, pull upward. To lower the restraint, push the release button sideways and push the restraint down.

Folding Rear Seat The back of the rear seat folds down to give you direct access to the trunk. Each side folds down sepa- rately. With only half the seat folded, you can still carry a passenger in the back seat.

To remove a head restraint for cleaning or repair, pull it up as far as it will go. Push the release button and pull the restraint out of the seat- back.

MASTER KEY

To fold down either side of the seat- back from inside the vehicle, use the master key in the lock on the rear shelf. To fold down the driver's side, turn the key clockwise, fold down the seat-back, then release the key. To fold down the passenger's side, turn the key counterclockwise and perform the same procedure.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFolding Rear Seat, Power Windows

Make sure all items in the trunk, or items extending through the opening into the back seat, are tied down. Loose items can fly forward and cause injury if you have to brake hard. See Carrying Cargo on page 116.

Power Windows On HX and EX models in the U.S., and Si model in Canada Your vehicle's windows are electri- cally-powered. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) to raise or lower any window.

RELEASE

Never drive with the seat-back folded down and the trunk lid open. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 47.

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

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

Each door has a switch that controls its window. To open the window, push the switch down and hold it. Release the switch when you want the window to stop. Close the window by pulling back on the switch and holding it.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPower Windows

DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH

MAIN SWITCH

On HX and EX models in the U.S., and Si model in Canada The driver's door has a master power window control panel. To open the passenger's window, push down on the switch and hold it down until the window reaches the desired position. To close the window, pull up on the window switch. Release the switch when the window gets to the position you want.

Instruments and Controls

Closing a power window on a child's hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

Make sure your children are away from the windows before closing them.

The master control panel also con- tains these extra features:

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

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

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

The MAIN switch controls power to the passenger's window. With this switch off, the passenger's window cannot be raised or lowered. The MAIN switch does not affect the driver's window. Keep the MAIN switch off when you have children in the vehicle so they do not injure themselves by operating the window unintentionally.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMoonroof

position, then release the switch. To close the moonroof, press and hold the

switch.

Mirrors

Moonroof, Mirrors

Closing the moonroof on someone's hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

Make sure passengers are clear of the moonroof before closing it.

NOTICE

If you try to open the moonroof in below-freezing temperatures, or when it is covered with snow or ice, you can damage the moonroof panel or motor.

On EX model in the U.S., and Si model in Canada Use the switches on the dashboard under the left vent to operate the moonroof. The ignition must be ON (II).

To lift the rear of the moonroof for ventilation, push the button. To slide the moonroof back, push the switch. Hold it until the moonroof reaches the desired

TAB

Keep the inside and outside mirrors clean and adjusted for best visibility. Be sure to adjust the mirrors before you start driving.

The inside mirror has day and night positions. The night position reduces glare from headlights behind you. Flip the tab on the bottom edge of the mirror to select the day or night position.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMirrors, Parking Brake

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

Parking Brake

SELECTOR SWITCH

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

On HX and EX models in the U.S., and Si model in Canada Adjust the outside mirrors with the adjustment switch on the left side of the dashboard:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

2. Move the selector switch to L

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

3. Push the appropriate edge of the

adjustment switch to move the mirror right, left, up or down.

4. When you finish, move the

selector switch to the center (off) position. This turns off the adjustment switch so you can't move a mirror out of position by accidentally bumping the switch.

Instruments and Controls

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up slightly, push the button, and lower the lever. The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released (see page 53).

Main MenuTable of ContentsstNOTICE

Glove Box

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

GLOVE BOX

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

Parking Brake, Glove Box

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

Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBeverage Holder

Push

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

To open the beverage holder, push on the top. The beverage holder lid is spring-loaded and will swing open. To close it, push it down until it latches.

Use the beverage holder only when the vehicle is parked. If you place cups in the holder while driving, the liquid may spill when you go over bumps or around corners.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAccessory Power Socket, Ashtrays

Accessory Power Socket

This socket is intended to supply power for 12 volt DC accessories that are rated 120 watts or less (10
amps).

It will not power an automotive type cigarette lighter element.

ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET To use the accessory power socket, pull down the cover. The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).

Ashtrays (Optional) Front and rear ashtrays are available as options. The front ashtray fits in the beverage holder. The rear ashtray fits in the rear of the center armrest.

Open the rear ashtray by swinging the upper edge down. To remove the ashtray for emptying, open the ashtray and then lift it up and out.

NOTICE

Use the ashtray only for cigarettes, cigars, and other smoking materials. To prevent a possible fire and damage to your vehicle, don't put paper or other things that can burn in the ashtray.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstInterior Light

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

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

(U.S.: EX)

DOOR ACTIVATED ON

OFF

DOOR ACTIVATED

ON

OFF

The interior light has a three- position switch. In the OFF position, the light does not come on. In the center position, the interior light comes on when you open any door. In the ON position, the interior light stays on continuously.

On U.S. vehicles with remote transmitter The interior light (with the switch in the center position) also comes on when you unlock the door with the remote transmitter (see page 70).

If you installed a non-Honda radio in your vehicle, the interior light will no longer work.

Turn on the spotlight by pushing the button next to each light. Push the button again to turn it off. You can use the spotlights at all times.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstComfort and Convenience Features

The heating and air conditioning* systems in your Honda provide a comfortable driving environment in all weather conditions.

The standard audio system has many features. This section de- scribes those features and how to use them. (If you selected an optional audio system, refer to the operating instructions that came with it.)

* Air conditioning is standard on the EX model in the U.S. It is optional on other models.

Heating and Cooling........................ 86
What Each Control Does............ 86
How to Use the System............... 88
To Turn Everything Off............. 93
Audio System................................... 94
Operating the Radio.................... 94
Adjusting the Sound.................... 96
Radio Frequencies....................... 97
Radio Reception........................... 97
Digital Clock................................. 99
Operating the Cassette

Player...................................... 100
Tape Search Functions............. 100
Caring for the Cassette

Player...................................... 102

Operating the Optional

CD Player/Changer.............. 103
Protecting Compact Discs........ 105
CD Changer Error

Indications.............................. 106

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenustHeating and Cooling

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

If your vehicle does not have air conditioning, it can be installed at any time. Your dealer will install a Genuine Honda air conditioning system that meets Honda's high quality standards and is designed to exactly fit your vehicle. Please contact your dealer for more information.

What Each Control Does

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

MODE BUTTONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

Temperature Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the temperature of the air flow.

Air Conditioning (A/C) Button This button turns the air condi- tioning ON and OFF. The indicator in the button lights when the A/C is on.

Recirculation Button This button controls the source of the air going into the system. When the indicator in this button is lit, air from the vehicle's interior is sent through the system again (Recircula- tion mode). When the indicator is off, air is brought in from outside the vehicle (Fresh Air mode).

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMode Buttons Use the MODE buttons to select the vents the air flows from. Some air will flow from the dashboard corner vents in all modes.

Air flows from the center

and corner vents in the dashboard.

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

Air flows from the floor

vents.

Air flow is divided between

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

Air flows from the defroster vents at the base of the windshield.

When you select automatically switches to Fresh Air mode and turns on the A/C.

, the system

Heating and Cooling

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

Vent Controls

CENTER VENT

SIDE VENT

Open

Close

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

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

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

The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to generate hot and cold air. The heater uses engine coolant to warm the air. If the engine is cold, it will be several minutes before you feel warm air coming from the system. The air conditioning does not rely on engine temperature.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIt is best to leave the system in Fresh Air mode under almost all conditions. Keeping the system in Recirculation mode, particularly with the A/C off, can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to Recirculation mode when you are driving through smoky or dusty conditions, then switch back to Fresh Air mode when the condition clears.

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

Heating and Cooling

MODE BUTTONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

Ventilation The flow-through ventilation system draws in outside air, circulates it through the interior, then exhausts it through vents near the rear window.

1. Slide the temperature control lever

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

2. Select 3. Set the fan to the desired speed.

and Fresh Air mode.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

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

button. The light in the button should come on.

2. Make sure the temperature

control lever is all the way to the left.

3. Select 4. If the outside air is humid, select Recirculation mode. If the outside air is dry, select Fresh Air mode. 5. Set the fan to the desired speed.

If the interior is very warm from being parked in the sun, you can cool it down more rapidly by setting up the controls this way:

1. Start the engine. 2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the button. Make sure the tempera- ture control lever is all the way to the left.

3. Set the fan to maximum speed. 4. Open the windows partially. Select

and Fresh Air mode.

Comfort and Convenience Features

MODE BUTTONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER When the interior has cooled down to a more comfortable temperature, close the windows and set the controls as described for normal cooling.

FAN CONTROL LEVER

Air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge (see page 56) when driving in stop-and-go traffic or climbing a long, steep hill. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the A/C until the gauge reads normally.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo Heat To warm the interior:

1. Start the engine. 2. Select 3. Set the fan to the desired speed. 4. Adjust the warmth of the air with

and Fresh Air mode.

the temperature control lever.

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

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select 4. Adjust the temperature control

and Fresh Air mode.

lever so the mixture of heated and cooled air feels comfortable.

This setting is suitable for all driving conditions whenever the outside temperature is above 32° F (0°C).

Heating and Cooling

To Defog and Defrost To remove fog from the inside of the windows:

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Select

When you select system automatically switches to Fresh Air mode and turns on the A/C.

, the

3. Adjust the temperature control

lever so the air flow from the defroster vents feels warm.

4. Turn on the rear window defogger

to help clear the rear window. When you switch to another mode from Press the A/C button to turn it off.

, the A/C stays on.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

To remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield and side windows after the vehicle has been sitting out in cold weather:

MODE BUTTONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

1. Start the engine. 2. Select

When you select system automatically switches to Fresh Air mode and turns on the A/C.

the

3. Switch the fan and temperature

controls to maximum.

To rapidly remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield (on very cold days), first select the Recirculation mode. Once the windshield is clear, select the Fresh Air mode to avoid fogging the windows.

Comfort and Convenience Features

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

These settings direct all the air flow to the defroster vents at the base of the windshield and the side window defroster vents. The air flow will get warmer and clear the windows faster as the engine warms up. You can close the side vents with the dial beside each vent. This will send more warm air to the windshield defroster vents.

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

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

A M / FM Stereo Audio System Your Honda's audio system provides clear reception on both AM and FM bands, while the preset buttons allow you to easily select your favorite stations.

A cassette player, CD player or CD changer is available as optional equipment. The cassette player is standard on the Si model in Canada.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on by pressing the PWR/ VOL knob or the AM/FM button. Adjust the volume by turning the knob.

The band and frequency that the radio was last tuned to is displayed. To change bands, press the AM/FM button. On the FM band, ST will be displayed if the station is broadcast- ing in stereo. Stereo reproduction on AM is not available.

You can use any of three methods to find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset buttons.

TUNE — Use the TUNE/SEEK bar to tune the radio to a desired frequency. Press the right side ( to tune to a higher frequency, or the

) to tune to a lower

left side ( frequency. The frequency numbers will start to change rapidly. Release the bar when the display reaches the desired frequency. To change the frequency in small increments, press and release the TUNE/SEEK bar quickly.

SEEK — The SEEK function searches the band for a station with a strong signal. To activate it, press the TUNE/SEEK bar until you hear a beep, then release it. Depending on which side of the bar you press, the system scans upward or downward from the current frequency. It stops when it finds a station with a strong signal.

Preset — You can store the fre- quencies of your favorite radio stations in the six preset buttons. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two on the FM band.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo store a frequency:

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

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function

to tune the radio to a desired station.

3. Pick the Preset button you want for that station. Press the button and hold it until you hear a beep.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total

of six stations on AM and twelve on FM.

Once a station's frequency is stored, simply press and release the proper Preset button to tune to it. The preset frequencies will be lost if your vehicle's battery goes dead, is disconnected or the radio fuse is removed.

Audio System

PWR/VOL KNOB

STEREO INDICATOR

AM/FM BUTTON

TUNE/SEEK BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

SECURITY SYSTEM INDICATOR*

* Security system is optional equipment.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

Adjusting the Sound Bass, Treble, Balance, and Fader are each adjustable. You select which of these you want to adjust by pressing the MODE button. The mode changes from BAS to TRE to FAD to BAL, and then back to VOL each time you press the button. Each mode is shown in the display as it changes.

Balance/Fader — These two modes adjust the strength of the sound coming from each speaker. BAE adjusts the side-to-side strength, while FAD adjusts the front-to-back strength.

Select BAE or FAD by pressing the MODE button. Adjust the Balance or Fader to your liking by turning the PWR/VOL knob. The indicator bars on the display show you the range.

Comfort and Convenience Features

MODE BUTTON

PWR/VOL KNOB

Treble/Bass — Use these modes to adjust the tone to your liking. Select TRE or BAS by pressing the MODE button. Adjust the desired mode by turning the PWR/VOL knob. The indicator bars on the display show you the range.

As you adjust a mode, you will hear a beep whenever the indicator bar reaches the center, far left, and far right of its range. The system will automatically return the display to normal mode about seven seconds after you stop adjusting a mode with the PWR/VOL knob.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstRadio Frequencies Your Honda's radio can receive the complete AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequen- cies:

AM band: 530 to 1,710 kilohertz FM band: 87.7 to 107.9 megahertz

Radio stations on the AM band are assigned frequencies at least ten kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550). Stations on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0.2
megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3).

Stations must use these exact frequencies. It is fairly common for stations to round-off the frequency in their advertising, so your radio could display a frequency of 100.9 even though the announcer may identify the station as "FM101."

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

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

Audio System

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

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

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

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstDigital Clock The audio system also displays the time. The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).

To set the time, press the CLOCK button. The hour numbers will begin blinking. Press the Preset 5 button to get the numbers to count down, or the Preset 6 button to get the hours to count up.

Press the CLOCK button again, and the minutes numbers will begin blinking. Use the Preset 5 or Preset 6 button to change the minutes to the correct value.

After you have set the clock, press the CLOCK button again to return to the normal display. If you do not, the system will automatically return to the normal display about seven seconds after you stop pressing the Preset buttons.

Audio System

TIME DISPLAYED

PRESET 5 BUTTON

PRESET 6 BUTTON

CLOCK BUTTON

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

Operating the Cassette Player Standard on Si model in Canada The cassette system features Dolby B* noise reduction, automatic sensing of chromium-dioxide (CrO tape, and autoreverse for continuous play.

* Dolby noise reduction manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpo- ration. "DOLBY" and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories

Licensing Corporation.

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

the other side, press the PROG button.

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

When the system reaches the end of the tape, it will automatically reverse direction and play the other side. If you want to remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button.

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

To switch to the radio or optional CD changer while listening to a tape,

press the A M / FM or CD/TAPE button. To change back to the cassette player, press the CD/TAPE button.

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

FF/REW — Fast Forward and Rewind move the tape rapidly. Press and release the REW side of the TUNE/SEEK bar to rewind the tape, or the FF side to fast forward. Press the PLAY button to take the system out of rewind or fast forward. If the system reaches the end of the tape while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

AM/FM BUTTON CD/TAPE BUTTON

NR BUTTON CASSETTE SLOT

TMS — The Tape Music Search function allows you to find the beginning of a song or passage. To activate TMS, press FF or REW until you hear a beep. You will see TMS displayed. When the system reaches the beginning of the next song or passage (FF), or the beginning of the song just played (REW), it goes back to PLAY mode.

REPEAT — The Repeat function continuously replays the current song or passage. Press the RPT button to activate it; you will see RPT displayed as a reminder. When the system reaches the end of the song or passage currently playing, it will automatically go into rewind. When it senses the beginning of the same song or passage, the system returns to PLAY mode. It will continue to repeat this same program until you deactivate REPEAT by pressing the button again.

TUNE/SEEK BAR

RPT BUTTON

PROG BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

PLAY BUTTON

EJECT BUTTON

The TMS and REPEAT functions use silent periods on the tape to find the end of a song or passage. These features may not work to your satisfaction if there is almost no gap between selections, a high noise level between selections, or a silent period in the middle of a selection.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

Caring for the Cassette Player The cassette player picks up dirt and oxides from the tape. This contami- nation builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the player after every 30 hours of use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit available.

Look at the cassette before you insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning a hub with a pencil or your finger. If the label is peeling off, remove it from the cassette or it could cause the cassette to jam in the player. Never try to insert a warped or damaged cassette in the player.

If you do not clean the cassette player regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the contamination with a normal cleaning kit.

Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes. Cassettes longer than that use thinner tape that may break or jam the drive.

When they are not in use, store cassettes in their cases to protect them from dust and moisture. Never place cassettes where they will be exposed to direct sunlight, high heat, or high humidity. If a cassette is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before inserting it in the player.

Never try to insert foreign objects into the cassette player.

Comfort and Convenience Features

" on the display, press the

If you see the error indication EJECT button and remove the cassette from the unit. Make sure the tape is not damaged. If the cassette will not eject or the error indication stays on after the cassette ejects, take the vehicle to your Honda dealer.

If a problem develops in the connec- tion between the cassette player and the radio, you will see " " in the display. Take the vehicle to your Honda dealer.

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

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

To operate the CD player or changer, the ignition must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).

Audio System

PWR/VOL KNOB

REPEAT INDICATOR

AM/FM BUTTON

TUNE/SEEK BAR

RPT BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

CD/TAPE BUTTON

CD Player Insert the disc into the CD slot. Push the disc in halfway, the drive will pull it in the rest of the way. Push the CD/TAPE button and the disc will start to play.

You will see the track number being played in the display.

You can also play 3-inch (8-cm) discs without using an adapter ring. In all cases, play only standard round discs. Odd-shaped CDs may jam in the drive or cause other problems.

When the system reaches the end of the disc, it will return to the begin- ning and play that disc again.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

Press the EJECT button to remove the disc from the player.

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

CD Changer Using the instructions that came with the changer, load the desired CDs in the magazine, and load the magazine in the changer. Play only standard round discs. Odd-shaped CDs may jam in the drive or cause other problems.

Press the CD/TAPE button. You will see "CD" in the display. The system will start to play the first track of the first disc. When that disc ends, the next disc in the magazine is loaded and played. After the last disc finishes, the system returns to disc 1.

Comfort and Convenience Features

To select a different disc, press the appropriate preset button (1 — 6). If you select an empty slot in the magazine, the changer will, after finding that slot empty, try to load the CD in the next slot. This continues until it finds a CD to load and play.

CD Player and Changer You can use the TUNE/SEEK bar to select tracks within a disc. If you press and release the TUNE/SEEK bar, the system will move to the beginning of a track. Press the

side to move to the beginning side

of the next track, and the to move to the beginning of the current track.

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

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

To take the system out of CD mode, press the AM/EM button or insert a cassette in the player. If a tape is already in the cassette player, press the CD/TAPE button. When you return to CD mode, play will contin- ue at the same point that it left off.

If you turn the system off while a CD is playing, either with the PWR/VOL knob or the ignition switch, play will continue at the same point when you turn it back on.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Compact Discs

Audio System

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

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

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

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

CD Changer Error Indications If you see an error indication in the display while operating the CD changer, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error indication, take the vehicle to your Honda dealer.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBefore Driving

Before you begin driving your Honda, you should know what gasoline to use, and how to check the levels of important fluids. You also need to know how to properly store luggage or packages. The information in this section will help you. If you plan to add any accessories to your vehicle, please read the information in this section first.

Break-in Period.............................. 108
Gasoline.......................................... 108
Service Station Procedures .......... 109
Filling the Fuel Tank................. 109
Opening the Hood..................... 110
Oil Check................................ 111
Engine Coolant Check.......... 112
Fuel Economy................................ 113
Vehicle Condition...................... 113
Driving Habits............................ 113
Accessories and Modifications.... 114
Carrying Cargo.............................. 116

Before Driving

Main MenustBreak-in Period, Gasoline

Break-in Period Help assure your vehicle's future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you drive during the first 600 miles (1,000 km). During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

Avoid hard braking. New brakes need to be broken-in by moderate use for the first 200 miles (300
km).