2003 Honda Civic Coupe Owners Manual

Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.

Burns from hot parts. Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching any parts.

Injury from moving parts. not run the engine unless in- structed to do so.

Do

Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.

To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline or batteries. Use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.

You should wear eye protection and protective clothing when working near the battery or when using compressed air.

Maintenance

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Maintenance Schedule

The Maintenance Schedule specifies how often you should have your car serviced and what things need attention. It is essential that you have your car serviced as scheduled to retain its high level of safety, dependability, and emissions control performance.

192

Maintenance

The services and time or distance intervals shown in the maintenance schedule assume you will use your car as normal transportation for passengers and their possessions. You should also follow these recommendations:

Avoidexceedingyourcar’sload limit.Thisputsexcessstresson the engine, brakes, and many other parts of your car. The load limit is shown on the label on the driver’s doorjamb.

Operate your car on reasonable roads within the legal speed limit.

Drive your car regularly over a distance of several miles (kilometers).

Always use unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating (see page 156

).

Which Schedule to Follow: Service your car according to the time and mileage periods on one of the Maintenance Schedules on the following pages.

−

Follow the

U.S. Owners Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions if you drive your car MAINLY under one or more of the following conditions.

Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 10
miles (16 km) per trip.

Driving in extremely hot [over 90°F (32°C)] conditions.

Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving, such as a taxi or a commercial delivery vehicle.

Driving with a roof rack, or driving in mountainous conditions.

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more information.

We recommend the use of genuine Honda parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high- quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability.

U.S. Vehicles: Maintenance, replacement or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.

Driving on muddy, dusty, or de- iced roads.

NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY or NEVER, drive under a ‘‘severe’’ condition, you should follow the Maintenance Schedule for Normal Conditions.

Canadian Owners Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

−

Your authorized Honda dealer knows your car best and can provide competent, efficient service. However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. Keep all the receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out the Maintenance Record. Check your warranty booklet for

Maintenance Schedule

＃

According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with will not void your emissions warranties. However, Honda recommends that all maintenance services be performed at the recommended time or mileage period to ensure long-term reliability.

Maintenance

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Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first.

−

Replace engine oil Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month) Replace engine oil filter Check engine oil and coolant Inspect front and rear brakes Check parking brake adjustment Visually inspect the following items:

Tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots, Suspension components Driveshaft boots, Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system, Fuel lines and connections ＃

＃

miles x 1,000
km x 1,000
months

10
16

20
32

12

30
48

40
64

50
80

60
96

70
112

80
128

90
144

100
160

110
176

120
192

24

36

48

60

72

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

Inspect and adjust drive belts Replace dust and pollen filter ＊ Replace transmission fluid

M/T A/T CVT

Service the following items at the recommended intervals.

＊

Replace air cleaner element Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance Replace timing belt, inspect auto-tensioner, and water pump Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km)

Inspect every 110,000 miles (176,000 km), otherwise adjust only if noisy

Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km) or 7 years

At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years,

then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

1: ＊ 2: ＊ ＃

See dust and pollen filter on page Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 5 years. See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

for replacement information under special driving conditions.

229

193

194

Maintenance

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Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. U.S. Owners Canadian Owners

Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

to determine which schedule to use.

Refer to page

192

−

−

10,000 mi/16,000 km/1 yr 20,000 mi/32,000 km/1 yr 30,000 mi/48,000 km 30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs 40,000 mi/64,000 km/2 yrs 3yrs 50,000 mi/80,000 km/3 yrs 60,000 mi/96,000 km 60,000 mi/96,000 km/3 yrs

70,000 mi/112,000 km/4 yrs 80,000 mi/128,000 km/4 yrs 90,000 mi/144,000 km 90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs 100,000 mi/160,000 km/5 yrs

110,000 mi/176,000 km

6yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km/6 yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km/7 yrs

120,000 mi/192,000 km 120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs

120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs

Replace transmission fluid (CVT).

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)

Do items in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in D. Do items in A, C. Do items in A, B. □ Do items in A. Do item in D. DoitemsinA,B,C. □ Do items in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in D. Do items in A, C. Do items in A, B. □ □ □ □ Do items in A. □ and water pump. □ Do item in D. □ DoitemsinA,B,C. □ 60,000 mi/96,000 km/5 yrs.

Inspect idle speed.

Replace transmission fluid (CVT). Inspect valve clearance, cold engine. Replace spark plugs. Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)

Replace timing belt, inspect auto-tensioner,

Replace transmission fluid (M/T, A/T ).

＊

Replace engine coolant, then replace every

□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

Replace engine oil. Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 235 ). Replace engine oil filter. Inspect front and rear brakes. Check parking brake adjustment. Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots. Inspect suspension components. Inspect driveshaft boots. Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS). Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check for leaks. Inspect exhaust system. □ ＃ Inspect fuel lines and connections. □ ＃ Inspect and adjust drive belts. □ Replace dust and pollen filter . □ ＊ Replace air cleaner element every 30,000 mi/48,000
□ km (independent of time).

＊

＊

1:

2:

＃

229

for replacement information

See dust and pollen filter on page under special driving conditions. Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000
miles (144,000 km) or 5 years. : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

193

NOTE:

Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop. Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.

Maintenance 195

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Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first.

−

Replace engine oil Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month) Replace engine oil filter Inspect front and rear brakes Lubricate all hinges, locks and latches Visually inspect the following items:

Tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots, Suspension components Driveshaft boots

miles x 1,000
km x 1,000
months

10
16

20
32

12

30
48

40
64

24

50
80

60
96

70
112

80
128

90
144

100
160

110
176

120
192

36

48

60

72

Replace every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

Check engine oil and coolant Visually inspect the following items:

Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system, Fuel lines and connections ＃ Lights and controls, Vehicle underbody Check parking brake adjustment

＃

Inspect and adjust drive belts Replace dust and pollen filter ＊ Replace transmission fluid

M/T A/T

CVT

At 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3 years, then every 30,000 miles

(48,000 km) or 2 years

Servicethefollowingitemsattherecommendedintervals.

Replace air cleaner element

Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance , inspect auto-tensioner, and water pump Replace timing belt ＊ ＃ Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) in dusty conditions,

otherwise use normal schedule Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km)

Inspect every 110,000 miles (176,000 km), otherwise adjust only if noisy

Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km) or 7 years

At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years,

then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

1 : ＊ 2 : ＊ ＃ 196

See dust and pollen filter on page See timing belt on page See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

for replacement information under special driving conditions.

for replacement information under special driving conditions.

231

193

229

Maintenance

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Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. U.S. Owners Canadian Owners

Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

to determine which schedule to use.

Refer to page

192

−

−

5,000 mi/8,000 km/6 mos 10,000 mi/16,000 km/1 yr 15,000 mi/24,000 km 15,000 mi/24,000 km/1-½ yrs 20,000 mi/32,000 km/1 yr 25,000 mi/40,000 km/2 yrs 30,000 mi/48,000 km 30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs 35,000 mi/56,000 km/2-½ yrs 40,000 mi/64,000 km/2 yrs 3yrs 45,000 mi/72,000 km 45,000 mi/72,000 km/3 yrs 50,000 mi/80,000 km/3 yrs 55,000 mi/88,000 km/3-½ yrs 60,000 mi/96,000 km 60,000 mi/96,000 km/3 yrs

65,000 mi/104,000 km/4 yrs 70,000 mi/112,000 km/4 yrs 75,000 mi/120,000 km 75,000 mi/120,000 km/4-½ yrs 80,000 mi/128,000 km/4 yrs 85,000 mi/136,000 km/5 yrs 90,000 mi/144,000 km 90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs

95,000 mi/152,000 km/5-½ yrs 100,000 mi/160,000 km/5 yrs

Do item in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in E. Do item in A. DoitemsinA,B,C. Do item in A. Do item in E. DoitemsinA,B,D. Do item in A. DoitemsinA,B,C. □ Do item in E. Do item in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in A. Do item in E. □ DoitemsinA,B,C,D. Do item in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in E. Do item in A. DoitemsinA,B,C. Do item in A. Do item in E. □ DoitemsinA,B,D. Do item in A. DoitemsinA,B,C. □

Replace transmission fluid (A/T).

Replace transmission fluid (CVT).

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)

Replace transmission fluid (M/T, A/T, CVT).

□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

Replace engine oil. Replace engine oil filter. Inspect front and rear brakes. Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 235 ). Lubricate all hinges, locks, and latches. Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots. Inspect suspension components. Inspect driveshaft boots. Check parking brake adjustment. Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS). Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check for leaks. Inspect exhaust system. □ ＃ Inspect fuel lines and connections. □ ＃ Check all lights. □ Inspect the underbody. □ Inspect and adjust drive belts. □ Replace dust and pollen filter . □ ＊ Replace air cleaner element.Every 15,000mi/24,000
□ km (independent of time) under dusty conditions, otherwise use Normal Conditions schedule.

＊

1 :

＊

2 :

＃

229

for replacement information

See dust and pollen filter on page under special driving conditions. See timing belt on page special driving conditions. See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

for replacement information under

193

231

NOTE:

Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop. Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.

CONTINUED Maintenance 197

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Replace brake fluid (indepeudent of mileage)

Replace spark plugs. Inspect valva clearance, cold engine.

, inspect auto-tensioner, Replace timing belt ＊ ＃

□ Do item in E. Do item in A. □ □ Do items in A, B. □ and water pump. □ Do item in A. Do item in E. □ Do items in A, B, C, D. □ □ 60,000 mi/96,000 km/5 yrs.

Inspect idle speed.

Replace transmission fluid (M/T).

Replace transmission fluid (A/T). Replace engine coolant then replace every

＊

1 :

＊

2 :

＃

229

for replacement information

See dust and pollen filter on page under special driving conditions. 231
See timing belt on page special driving conditions. See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

for replacement information under

193

NOTE:

Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop. Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.

6 yrs 105,000 mi/168,000 km 105,000 mi/168,000 km/6 yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km 110,000 mi/176,000 km 110,000 mi/176,000 km/6 yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km/7 yrs

115,000 mi/184,000 km/6-½ yrs 120,000 mi/192,000 km 120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs

120,000 mi/192,000 km/7 yrs 120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs

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Maintenance

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Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page conditions (page

). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.

196

194

) or severe

Signature or dealer stamp

5,000 mi 8,000 km

10,000 mi 16,000 km

15,000 mi 24,000 km

20,000 mi 32,000 km (or 1 year)

25,000 mi 40,000 km

30,000 mi 48,000 km

Signature or dealer stamp

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

35,000 mi 56,000 km

40,000 mi 64,000 km (or 2 years)

45,000 mi 72,000 km

50,000 mi 80,000 km

55,000 mi 88,000 km

60,000 mi 96,000 km (or 3 years)

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

CONTINUED Maintenance 199

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Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

Signature or dealer stamp

65,000 mi 104,000 km

70,000 mi 112,000 km

75,000 mi 120,000 km

80,000 mi 128,000 km (or 4 years)

85,000 mi 136,000 km

90,000 mi 144,000 km

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

95,000 mi 152,000 km

100,000 mi 160,000 km (or 5 years)

105,000 mi 168,000 km

110,000 mi 176,000 km

115,000 mi 184,000 km

120,000 mi 192,000 km (or 6 years)

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Maintenance

Signature or dealer stamp

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

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Owner Maintenance Checks

Youshouldcheckthefollowing items at the specified intervals. If you are unsure of how to perform any check, turn to the page given.

Engine oil level Check every time you fill the fuel tank. See page

160

−

Engine coolant level Check the radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank. See page

−

161

−

Windshield washer fluid Check the level in the reservoir monthly. If weather conditions cause you to use the washers frequently, check the reservoir each time you stop for fuel. See page

213

Automatic transmission Check the fluid level monthly. See page 214

−

Brakes monthly. See page

−

Check the fluid level

217

−

Tires Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects. See page 232

−

Check the operation of

Lights the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, turn signals, brake lights, and license plate lights monthly. See page

239

Maintenance 201

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Fluid Locations

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop)

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)

ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP

202

Maintenance

BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap)

CLUTCH FLUID (Gray cap)

WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (CVT) (Yellow loop)

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Recommended Oil Oil is a major contributor to your engine’s performance and longevity. Always use a premium-grade 5W-20
detergent oil displaying the API Certification Seal. This seal indicates the oil is energy conserving, and that it meets the American Petroleum Institute’s latest requirements.

Honda Motor Oil is the preferred 5W-20 lubricant for your car. It is highly recommended that you use Honda Motor Oil in your car for optimum engine protection.

Adding Oil

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

To add oil, unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on top of the valve cover. Pour in the oil, and install the engine oil fill cap. Tighten it securely. Wait a few minutes and recheck the oil level. Do not fill above the upper mark; you could damage the engine. Pour the oil slowly and carefully so you do not spill. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled oil could damage components in the engine compartment.

Engine Oil

Make sure the API Certification Seal says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

CONTINUED

Maintenance 203

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Engine Oil

The SAE number tells you the oil’s viscosity or weight. Select the oil for your vehicle according to this chart.

5W-20 oil is formulated for year- round protection of your Honda, to improve cold weather starting, and to help your engine use less fuel.

Ambient Temperature

204

Maintenance

Synthetic Oil You may use a synthetic motor oil if it meets the same requirements given for a conventional motor oil: it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight as shown on the chart. When using synthetic oil, you must follow the oil and filter change intervals given in the maintenance schedule.

Additives Your Honda does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect your engine’s or transmission’s performance and durability.

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Changing the Oil and Filter Always change the oil and filter according to the time and distance (miles/kilometers) recommenda- tions in the maintenance schedule. The oil and filter collect contami- nants that can damage your engine if they are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the car. The car should be raised on a service station-type hydraulic lift for this service. Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.

DRAIN BOLT

WASHER

OIL FILTER

Engine Oil

1.

2.

Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.

Open the hood and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

3.

Remove the oil filter and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your Honda dealer) is required to remove the filter.

4.

Install a new oil filter according to instructions that come with it.

CONTINUED

Maintenance 205

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7.

8.

9.

Replace the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator light should go out within five seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine and reinspect your work.

Let the engine run for several minutes, then check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks.

Turn off the engine, let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level. If necessary, add oil to bring the level to the upper mark on the dipstick.

Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmf ul to the environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.

Engine Oil

5.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten it to:

(U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: DX, LX) 33 lbf·ft (44 N·m , 4.5 kgf·m)

(U.S.: EX, HX, Canada: Si) 29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)

6.

Refill the engine with the recom- mended oil. Engine oil change capacity (including filter):

(U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: DX, LX) 3.4 US qt (3.2 )

(U.S.: EX, HX, Canada: Si) 3.7 US qt (3.5 )

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Maintenance

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Cooling System

Always use Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. It does not require any additional mixing.

If it is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Make sure it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. However, continued use of any non- Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/ coolant as soon as possible.

If the reserve tank is completely empty, you should also check the coolant level in 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.

1.

Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.

Adding Engine Coolant

RESERVE TANK

If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks. The coolant you add should always be a mixture of 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

CONTINUED

Maintenance 207

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Cooling System

RADIATOR CAP

RESERVE TANK

6.

Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.

Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your car’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine compo- nents.

2.

Turn the radiator cap counter- clockwise, without pressing down on it, until it stops. This relieves any pressure remaining in the cooling system.

3.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

4.

The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low. Pour the coolant slowly and carefully so you do not spill. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled coolant could damage components in the engine compartment.

5.

Put the radiator cap back on. Tighten it fully.

208

Maintenance

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Replacing Engine Coolant The cooling system should be completely drained and refilled with new coolant according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. Only use Honda All Season Antifreeze/ Coolant Type 2.

Draining the coolant requires access to the underside of the car. Unless you have the tools and knowledge, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.

Cooling System

DRAIN PLUG

1.

Turn the ignition ON (II). Turn the temperature control dial to maximum heat. Turn off the ignition. Open the hood. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool to the touch.

2.

Remove the radiator cap.

DRAIN BOLT Loosen the drain plug on the 3. bottom of the radiator. The coolant will drain through the splash guard. Remove the drain bolt and washer from the engine block. Drain the coolant into an appropriate container.

CONTINUED

Maintenance 209

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Cooling System

NUT

BOLT

BOLT

TAB

9.

Reconnect the battery cables to the terminals. Connect the positive ( ) cable first, then the negative ＋ ()cable. −

Battery posts,

WARNING: terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.

StandardforHX,LXandEXmodelsin theU.S.,andLXandSimodelsin Canada The audio system disables itself when you disconnect the battery. Whenyouturnontheradioyouwill see ‘‘ display. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code (see page 149

’’ in the frequency

).

4.

Disconnect the battery cables from the terminals. Disconnect the negative ( ) cable first, then the positive ( ) cable.

− ＋

5.

Remove the bolt and nut, then remove the battery case.

6.

Remove the battery.

7.

Remove the reserve tank mounting bolt. Remove the reserve tank and drain the coolant. Put the tank back in place, making sure its bottom tab is in the holder. Reinstall the bolt.

8.

Reinstall the battery and battery case. Secure them with the bolt and nut.

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FILLER NECK

10.

When the coolant stops draining, tighten the drain plug in the bottom of the radiator. Apply non- hardening sealant to the drain bolt threads, put a new washer on the drain bolt, and reinstall the drain bolt in the engine block. Tighten it securely. Tightening torque: 58 lbf·ft (78 N·m , 8.0 kgf·m)

Cooling System

The cooling system capacity is:

With5-speedmanualtransmission: 1.03 US gal (3.9 )

Withautomatictransmission: 1.00 US gal (3.8 )

Withautomatictransmission(CVT): 1.00 US gal (3.8 )

Fill up to here

11.

Pour Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 into the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. This coolant is a mixture of 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Pre-mixing is not required.

CONTINUED

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Cooling System

12.

Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds. Then turn off the engine.

13.

Check the level in the radiator, add coolant if needed.

14.

Fill the reserve tank to the MAX mark. Install the reserve tank cap.

15.

Install the radiator cap, and tighten it to the first stop.

18.

Start the engine and hold it at 1,500 rpm until the radiator fan comes on. Turn off the engine. Check the coolant level in the radiator and add coolant if needed.

19.

Install the radiator cap, and tighten it fully.

20.

If necessary, fill the reserve tank to the MAX mark. Install the reserve tank cap.

16.

Start the engine and let it run until the radiator fan comes on two times. Then stop the engine.

17.

Remove the radiator cap. Fill the radiator with coolant up to the base of the filler neck.

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Check the level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal usage. In bad weather, when you use the washers often, check the level every time you stop for fuel.

The windshield washer reservoir is located behind the driver’s side headlight. Check the reservoir’s fluid level by removing the cap and looking at the level gauge attached to the cap.

OnCanadianmodels The low washer level indicator will light when the level is low (see page 66

).

LEVEL GAUGE

Fill the reservoir with a good-quality windshield washer fluid. This increases the cleaning capability and prevents freezing in cold weather.

Windshield Washers

When you refill the reservoir, clean the edges of the windshield wiper blades with windshield washer fluid on a clean cloth. This will help to condition the blade edges.

Do not use engine antif reeze or a vinegar/water solution in the windshield washer reservoir.

Antif reeze can damage your car’s paint, while a vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump.

Use only commercially-available windshield washer f luid.

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Transmission Fluid

Automatic Transmission

DIPSTICK (CVT)

DIPSTICK (A/T)

DIPSTICK (A/T)

Check the fluid level with the engine at normal operating temperature.

1.

Park the car on level ground. Shut off the engine. For accurate results, wait at least 60 seconds, and no more than 90 seconds, after shutting off the engine to check the fluid level.

2.

3.

Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission and wipe it with a clean cloth.

Insert the dipstick all the way into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

4.

Remove the dipstick and check the fluid level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

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DIPSTICK (CVT)

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

OnCVTmodel Remove the dipstick and check the fluid level. There are HOT side and COLD side on the dipstick. It should be between the upper and lower marks on the HOT side.

5.

If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the filler hole to bring it to the upper mark (On CVT model, HOT side’s upper mark).

Always use Honda ATF-Z1
(Automatic Transmission Fluid). If it is not available, you may use a DEXRON III automatic transmission fluid as a temporary replacement. However, continued use can affect shift quality. Have the transmission flushed and refilled with Honda ATF-Z1 as soon as it is convenient.

To thoroughly flush the transmission, the technician should drain and refill it with Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic Transmission Fluid), then drive the vehicle a short distance. Do this three times. Then drain and refill the transmission a final time.

Transmission Fluid

6.

Insert the dipstick all the way back into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the time and distance recommen- dations in the maintenance schedule.

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If Honda MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40
viscosity motor oil with the API Certification seal that says ‘‘FOR GASOLINE ENGINES’’ as a temporary replacement. However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives and continued use can cause stiffer shifting. Replace as soon as it is convenient.

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the time and distance recommen- dations in the maintenance schedule.

Check the fluid level in the reser- voirs monthly. There are up to two reservoirs, depending on the model. They are:

Brake fluid reservoir (all models) Clutch fluid reservoir (manual transmission only)

The brake fluid should be replaced according to the time and distance recommendations in the mainte- nance schedule.

Transmission Fluid

5-speed Manual Transmission

FILLER BOLT

Correct Level Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the car sitting on level ground. Remove the transmission filler bolt and carefully feel inside the bolt hole with your finger. The fluid level should be up to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is not, add Honda Manual Transmis- sion Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt and tighten it securely.

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Always use Honda DOT 3 brake fluid. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement. However, the use of any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda DOT 3 brake fluid as soon as possible.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your car’s braking system and can cause extensive damage.

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake System

Clutch System

MAX

MIN

MAX MIN

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If the level is at or below the MIN mark, your brake system needs attention. Have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If it is not, add brake fluid to bring it up to that level. Use the same fluid specified for the brake system.

Low fluid level can indicate a leak in the clutch system. Have this system inspected as soon as possible.

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Power Steering

You should check the fluid level in the power steering reservoir at least once a year. Check the level when the engine is cold. Look at the side of the reservoir. The fluid should be between the UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL. If it is below the LOWER LEVEL, add power steering fluid to the UPPER LEVEL.

UPPER LEVEL

A low power steering fluid level can indicate a leak in the system. Check the fluid level frequently and have the system inspected as soon as possible.

Turning the steering wheel to f ull lef t or right lock and holding it there can damage the power steering pump.

LOWER LEVEL

Always use Honda Power Steering Fluid. If it is not available, you may use another power steering fluid as an emergency replacement. However, continued use can cause increased wear and poor steering in cold weather. Have the power steering system flushed and refilled with Honda PSF as soon as possible.

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Air Cleaner Element

The air cleaner element should be replaced according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule.

The air cleaner element is inside the air cleaner housing in the engine compartment.

Replacement

BOLTS

BOLTS

To replace it:

1.

Loosen the seven bolts and remove the air cleaner housing cover.

2.

Remove the old air cleaner element.

AIR CLEANER ELEMENT

3.

Carefully clean the inside of the air cleaner housing with a damp rag.

4.

Place the new air cleaner element in the air cleaner housing.

5.

Reinstall the air cleaner housing cover, tighten the seven bolts.

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Hood Latch

PIVOTS

LATCH