2003 Honda Civic Coupe Owners Manual

automatic transmission may downshift to hold the set speed.

ChangingtheSetSpeed You can increase the set cruising speed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the RESUME/ accel button. The car will acceler- ate. When you reach the desired cruising speed, release the button.

To increase your speed in very small amounts, tap the RESUME/ accel button repeatedly. Each time you do this, your car will speed up about 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

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

RESUME/ accel BUTTON SET/decel BUTTON

3.

Press and release the SET/decel button on the steering wheel. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel comes on to show the system is now activated.

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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 car will return to the set cruising speed.

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

You can decrease the set cruising speed in any of these ways:

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

To slow down in very small amounts, tap the SET/decel button repeatedly. Each time you do this, your car will slow down about 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

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

Cruise Control

CancellingtheCruiseControl

CANCEL BUTTON

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

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

Push the CANCEL button on the steering wheel.

Press the Cruise Control Master Switch.

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Cruise Control

When you push the CANCEL button, or tap the brake or clutch pedal, the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out and the car will begin to slow down. You can use the accelerator pedal in the normal way.

The system remembers the previously-set cruising speed. To return to that speed, accelerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h), then press the RESUME/accel button. The CRUISE CONTROL light comes on, and the car will accelerate to the same cruising speed as before.

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 Usingthe CruiseControl

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Before Driving

Before you begin driving your Honda, youshouldknowwhatgasolineto 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 car, please read the information in this section first.

Filling the Fuel Tank Opening the Hood

Break-in Period Gasoline Service Station Procedures

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. 162
. 162
. 162
Accessories and Modifications . 163
. 165
Carrying Cargo

............................. ......................................... ......... ................ .................... ............................... ......... ............................... ..................... ........................... ... .............................

Oil Check Engine Coolant Check

Vehicle Condition Driving Habits

Fuel Economy

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In Canada, some gasolines contain an octane-enhancing additive called MMT. If you use such gasolines, your emission control system performance may deteriorate and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp on your instrument panel may turn on. If this happens, contact your authorized Honda dealer for service.

Gasoline Your Honda is designed to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 86 or higher. Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a persistent, heavy metallic rapping noise in the engine that can lead to mechanical damage.

We recommend gasolines containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits.

Using gasoline containing lead will damage your car’s emissions controls. This contributes to air pollution.

Break-in Period, Gasoline

Break-in Period Help assure your car’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).

Do not change the oil until the recommended time or mileage interval shown in the maintenance schedule.

You should follow these same re- commendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are relined.

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Filling the Fuel Tank

Push

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away. Handle fuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately.

1.

Because the fuel fill cap is on the driver’s side of the car, park with that side closest to the service station pumps.

2.

Open the fuel fill door by pushing on the handle to the left of the driver’s seat.

FUEL FILL CAP

Service Station Procedures

3.

4.

Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Place the cap in the holder on the fuel fill door.

Stop filling the tank after the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off. Do not try to ‘‘top off’’ the tank, leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.

Your car has an on-board refueling vapor recovery system to help keep fuel vapors from going into the atmosphere. If the fuel nozzle keeps clicking off even though the tank is not full, there may be a problem with this system. Consult your dealer.

CONTINUED

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Service Station Procedures

Opening the Hood

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

LATCH

1.

Shift to Park or Neutral and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle located under the lower left corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.

2.

Standing in front of the car, put your fingers under the front edge of the hood to the right of center. Slide your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle up until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.

5.

Screw the fuel fill cap back on, tighten it until it clicks several times. If you do not properly tighten the cap, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp may come on (see page

274

).

6.

Push the fuel fill door closed until it latches.

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If you can open the hood without lifting the hood latch handle, or the hood latch handle moves stiffly or does not spring back as before, the mechanism should be cleaned and lubricated (see page

220

).

Service Station Procedures

After closing the hood, make sure it is securely latched.

SUPPORT ROD

GRIP

CLIP

3.

Pull the support rod out of its clip by holding the grip and insert the end into the hole on the front left side of the hood.

To close the hood, lift it up slightly to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot (30 cm) above the fender, then let it drop.

CONTINUED

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Service Station Procedures

OilCheck

2.

Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel.

3.

Insert it all the way back in its tube.

DIPSTICK

Check the engine oil level every time you fill the car with fuel. Wait a few minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1.

Remove the dipstick (orange loop).

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Service Station Procedures

Owner Maintenance on page

Refer to Checks on checking other items in your Honda.

201

for information

EngineCoolantCheck

MAX

MIN

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If Adding it is below the MIN line, see Engine Coolant for 207
information on adding the proper coolant.

on page

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

4.

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

If it is near or below the lower mark, see

Adding Oil

on page

203

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Driving Habits You can improve fuel economy by driving moderately. Rapid acceler- ation, abrupt cornering, and hard braking use more fuel.

Always drive in the highest gear that allows the engine to run and acceler- ate smoothly.

Depending on traffic conditions, try to maintain a constant speed. Every time you slow down and speed up, your car uses extra fuel. Use the cruise control, when appropriate, to increase fuel economy.

A cold engine uses more fuel than a warm engine. It is not necessary to ‘‘warm-up’’ a cold engine by letting it idle for a long time. You can drive away in about a minute, no matter how cold it is outside. The engine will warm up faster, and you get better fuel economy. To cut down on the number of ‘‘cold starts,’’ try to combine several short trips into one.

The air conditioning puts an extra load on the engine which makes it usemorefuel.TurnofftheA/Cto cut down on air conditioning use. Use the flow-through ventilation when the outside air temperature is moderate.

Fuel Economy

The condition of your car and your driving habits are the two most important things that affect the fuel mileage you get.

Vehicle Condition Always maintain your car according to the maintenance schedule. This will keep it in top operating condition.

201

(see page

Owner Maintenance

An important part of that mainte- nance is the Checks ). For example, an underinflated tire causes more ‘‘rolling resistance,’’ which uses fuel. It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly.

In winter, the build-up of snow on your car’s underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

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Modifying your car, or installing some non-Honda accessories, can make your car unsafe. Before you make any modifications or add any accessories,besuretoreadthe following information.

Accessories Your dealer has genuine Honda accessories that allow you to personalize your car. These accessories have been designed and approved for your car, and are covered by warranty.

Non-Honda accessories are usually designed for universal applications. Although aftermarket accessories may fit on your car, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your car’s handling and stability. (See ‘‘Modifications’’ on page 164
additional information.)

for

Improper accessories or modifications can affect your car’s handling, stability, and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding accessories and modifications.

When properly installed, cellular phones, alarms, two-way radios, and low-powered audio systems should not interfere with your car’s computer-controlled systems, such as the SRS and anti-lock brake system.

Accessories and Modifications

However, if electronic accessories are improperly installed, or exceed your car’s electrical system capacity, they can interfere with the operation of your car, or even cause the airbags to deploy.

Before installing any accessory:

Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, or interfere with proper car operation or performance.

Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits (see page

278

).

Have the installer contact your Honda dealer for assistance before installing any electronic accessory.

If possible, have your dealer inspect the final installation.

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Accessories and Modifications

Modifications Removing parts from your vehicle, or replacing components with non- Honda (aftermarket) components could seriously affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, and reliability.

Some examples are:

Lowering the vehicle with an aftermarket suspension kit that significantly reduces ground clearance can allow the undercarriage to impact speed bumps or other raised objects, which could cause the airbags to deploy.

Raising the vehicle with an aftermarket suspension kit can affect the handling and stability.

Aftermarket wheels, because they are a universal design, can cause excessive stress on suspension components.

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Larger or smaller wheels and tires can interfere with the operation of your vehicle’s anti-lock brakes and other systems.

Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of your Supplemental Restraint System. Modifications could make the system ineffective.

If you plan to modify your vehicle, consult with your Honda dealer.

Additional Safety Precautions

Any object

Do not attach or place objects on theairbag covers. attached to or placed on the covers marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG,’’ in the center of the steering wheel and on top of the dashboard, could interfere with the proper operation of the airbags. Or, if the airbags inflate, the objects could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone.

Onlyonmodelsequippedwithside airbags

Donotattachhardobjectsonor If a side airbag nearafrontdoor. inflates, a cup holder or other hard object attached on or near the door could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone.

Donotplaceanyobjectsoverthe outsideedgeofafrontseat-back. Covering the outside edge of a front seat-back, with a non-Honda seat cover for example, could prevent the airbag from inflating properly.

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CONSOLE COMPARTMENT ＊

FRONT DOOR POCKET

GLOVE BOX

TRUNK

SEAT-BACK POCKET

＊ ＊

＊

1: U.S.: LX and EX models

Canada: LX and Si models

2: U.S.: HX, LX and EX models

Canada: LX and Si models

Carrying Cargo

Your car has several convenient storage areas so you can stow cargo safely.

The glove box, and the pockets in the front doors and seat-back, are designed for small, lightweight items. The trunk is intended for larger, heavier items. In addition, the back seat can be folded down to allow you to carry more cargo or longer items.

However, carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your car’s handling, stability, and operation, and make it unsafe. Before carrying any type of cargo, be sure to read the following pages.

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Carrying Cargo

Load Limit The maximum load for your car is 850 lbs (395 kg).

This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and accessories.

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Add up the weight of all occupants.

Subtract the total from 850 lbs (395 kg).

The final number is the total weight of cargo you can carry.

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Overloading or improper loading can affect handling and stability and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other loading guidelines in this manual.

Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment

Store or secure all items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash.

Do not put any items on top of the rear shelf. They can block your view and be thrown around the car during a crash.

Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll under the seats and interfere with the driver’s ability to operate the pedals, or with the proper operation of the seats.

Keep the glove box closed while driving. If the lid is open, a passenger could injure their knees during a crash or sudden stop.

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Carrying Cargo

If you carry large items that prevent you from closing the trunk lid, exhaust gas can enter the passenger area. To avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning, follow the instructions on page

.55

If you can carry any items on a roof rack, be sure the total weight of the rack and the items does not exceed the maximum allowable weight. Please contact your Honda dealer for further information.

Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or on a Roof Rack

Distribute cargo evenly on the floor of the trunk, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible.

Ifyoufolddownthebackseat,tie down items that could be thrown about the car during a crash or sudden stop.

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Carrying Cargo

Cargo Hooks

Cargo Net

The hooks on the floor of the cargo area enable you to tie down items stored in the back. Make sure all stored items are secured before driving.

OnEXmodelintheU.S.,andSimodel inCanada You can use the cargo net to secure items in the cargo area. To install the cargo net, hook the loops on the four corners of the net to the tabs on both sides of the trunk.

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Driving

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the 5-speed manual and automatic transmissions. It also includes impor- tant information on parking your car, and the braking system.

Preparing to Drive Starting the Engine

........................ .......................

. 170
. 171

Starting in Cold Weather

at High Altitude

5-speed Manual Transmission Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter Automatic Transmission

. 171
.................... . 172
.... . 173
..... . 173
.............. .............. . 174
Shift Lever Position Indicator . 174
. 175
Shift Lever Positions ................ .............. Engine Speed Limiter . 177
Shift Lock Release . 178
.................... Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Parking Tips

Maximum Allowable Speed Parking

................ ......... ........................................... .............................. ..................... ............. ............... .......................

Brake Wear Indicators Brake System Design Anti-lock Brakes

The Braking System

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. 183
. 184
. 184

Important Safety

Reminders ABS Indicator

Driving in Bad Weather Towing a Trailer

......................... ........................ ............... ...........................

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. 186
. 187
. 188

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4.

5.

6.

Check that any items you may be carrying with you inside are stored properly or fastened down securely.

Check the adjustment of the seat (see page

90

).

Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors (see page

99

).

7.

Check the adjustment of the steering wheel (see page 79

).

8.

Make sure the doors are securely closed and locked.

9.

Fasten your seat belt. Check that your passengers have fastened their seat belts (see page ).

16

10.

Turn the ignition switch ON (II). Check the indicator lights in the instrument panel.

11.

Start the engine (see page

171

).

12.

Check the gauges and indicator lights in the instrument panel (see page

61

).

Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checks and adjustments every day before you drive your car.

1.

Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.

2.

Check that the hood and trunk are fully closed.

3.

Visually check the tires. If a tire looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure.

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1.

Apply the parking brake.

2.

3.

4.

In cold weather, turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

ManualTransmission: Push the clutch pedal down all the way. START (III) does not function unless the clutch pedal is depressed.

AutomaticTransmission: Make sure the shift lever is in Park. Press on the brake pedal.

Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. If the engine does not start right away, do not hold the key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds at a time. Pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again.

5.

6.

If the engine does not start within 15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 4 with the accelerator pedal pressed half-way down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

If the engine still does not start, press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting in order to clear flooding. As before, keep the ignition key in the START (III) position for no more than 15 seconds. Return to step 5 if the engine does not start. If it starts, lift your foot off the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude (Above 8,000 feet/ 2,400 meters) An engine is harder to start in cold weather. The thinner air found at high altitude above 8,000 feet

Starting the Engine

(2,400 meters) adds to the problem. Use the following procedure:

1.

Turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

2.

Push the accelerator pedal half- way to the floor and hold it there while starting the engine. Do not hold the ignition key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds. When the engine starts, release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up and smooths out.

3.

If the engine fails to start in step 2, push the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it there while you try to start the engine for no more than 15 seconds. If the engine does not start, return to step 2.

Driving

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5-speed Manual Transmission

Come to a full stop before you shift into Reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into Reverse with the car moving. Push down the clutch pedal, and pause for a few seconds before shifting into Reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they won’t ‘‘grind.’’

When slowing down, you can get extra braking from the engine by shifting to a lower gear. This extra braking can help you maintain a safe speed and prevent your brakes from overheating while going down a steep hill. Before downshifting, make sure the vehicle speed is low enough that you will not activate the engine speed limiter in the lower gear. On all models except U.S. DX, make sure the engine speed will not go into the tachometer’s red zone in the lower gear before downshifting.

Rapid slowing or speeding-up can cause loss of control on slippery surfaces. If you crash, you can be injured.

Use extra care when driving on slippery surfaces.

The manual transmission is syn- chronized in all forward gears for smooth operation. It has a lockout so you cannot shift directly from Fifth to Reverse. When shifting up or down, make sure you push the clutch pedal down all the way, shift to the next gear, and let the pedal up gradually. When you are not shifting, do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal. This can cause your clutch to wear out faster.

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5-speed Manual Transmission

Engine Speed Limiter AllmodelsexceptU.S.DX If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer’s red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone.

Before downshifting, make sure the engine will not go into the tachometer’s red zone.

U.S.DXmodel If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the engine speed by upshifting or slowing down.

Before downshifting, make sure the vehicle speed is low enough that you will not activate the engine speed limiter in the lower gear.

Recommended Shift Points Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you the best fuel economy and effective emis- sions control. The following shift points are recommended:

Shift up

Normal acceleration

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th

15 mph (24 km/h) 27 mph (43 km/h) 39 mph (63 km/h) 53 mph (85 km/h)

Shift up

Cruise from acceleration

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th

9 mph (14 km/h) 20 mph (32 km/h) 33 mph (53 km/h) 48 mph (77 km/h)

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Automatic Transmission

Your Honda’s transmission has four forward speeds, and is electronically controlled for smoother shifting. It also has a ‘‘lock-up’’ torque converter forbetterfueleconomy.Youmay feel what seems like another shift when the converter locks.

Shift Lever Position Indicator

To operate the HX model’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), refer to page

179

U.S.: LX, EX, Canada: LX, Si

Canada: DX

This indicator on the instrument panel shows which position the shift lever is in.

The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II). If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid acceleration and have the trans- missioncheckedbyanauthorized Honda dealer as soon as possible.

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Automatic Transmission

Shift Lever Positions

SHIFT LEVER

To shift from:

P to R

Do this:

Press the brake pedal and press the release button.

Press the release button.

Move the lever.

R to P N to R D to 2
2 to D D to D D to N D to D N to D R to N

U.S.: DX

RELEASE BUTTON The shift lever has six positions. It must be in Park or Neutral to start the engine. When you are stopped in D, D , 2, N or R, press firmly on the brake pedal, and keep your foot off the accelerator pedal.

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Automatic Transmission

If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see Shift Lock Release on page 178

You must also press the release button to shift into Park. To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch.

−

To shift to Reverse

Reverse (R) from Park, see the explanation under Park. To shift to Reverse from Neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift. Press the release button before shifting into Reverse from Neutral.

−

This position mechani-

Park (P) cally locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press on the brake pedal and have your foot off the accelerator pedal. Press the release button on the front of the shift lever to move it.

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−

Use Neutral if you

Neutral (N) need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to Park posi- tion if you need to leave the car for any reason. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from Neutral to another gear.

−

Drive (D) Use this position for your normal driving. The transmis- sion automatically selects a suitable gear for your speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher speeds when the engine is cold. This helps the engine warm up faster.

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−

This position is similar

Drive (D )3
to D, except only the first three gears are selected. Use D to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D can also keep the transmission from cycling between third and fourth gears in stop-and-go driving.

For faster acceleration when in D or D, you can get the transmission to automatically downshift by pushing the accelerator pedal to the floor. The transmission will shift down one or two gears, depending on your speed.

−

To shift to Second,

Second (2) press the release button on the front of the shift lever. This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop. Second gives you more power when climbing, and increased engine braking when going down steep hills. Use second gear when starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow. It will help reduce wheelspin.

Automatic Transmission

Engine Speed Limiter AllmodelsexceptU.S.DX If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer’s red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone.

U.S.DXmodel If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the engine speed by upshifting or slowing down.

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Automatic Transmission

Shift Lock Release This allows you to move the shift lever out of Park if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal and pressing the release button does not work.

1.

Set the Parking brake.

2.

Remove the key from the ignition switch.

3.

Put a cloth on the edge of the Shift Lock Release slot cover next to the shift lever. Use a small flat-tipped screwdriver or small metal plate (neither are included in the tool kit) to remove the cover. Carefully pry on the edge of the cover.

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Driving

RELEASE BUTTON

COVER

4.

Insert the key in the Shift Lock Release slot.

5.

Push down on the key while you press the release button on the shift lever and move the shift lever out of Park to Neutral.

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT

6.

Remove the key from the Shift Lock Release slot, then reinstall the cover. Make sure the notch on the cover is on the left side. Depress the brake pedal and restart the engine.

If you need to use the Shift Lock Release, it means your car is developing a problem. Have the car checked by your Honda dealer.

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

Shift Lever Position Indicator

Shift Lever Positions

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) OnHXmodel Honda’s Continuously Variable automatic transmission’s unique design provides a smooth, constant flow of power. It is electronically controlled for more precise operation and better fuel economy.

This indicator on the instrument panel shows which position the shift lever is in. The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II). If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid acceleration and have the trans- mission checked by an authorized Honda dealer as soon as possible.

The shift lever has six positions. It must be in Park or Neutral to start the engine. When you are stopped in D, S, L, N or R, press firmly on the brake pedal and keep your foot off the accelerator pedal.

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

−

This position

Park (P) mechanically locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift outofPark,youmustpressonthe brake pedal, have your foot off the accelerator pedal, and press the releasebuttononthefrontofthe shift lever. If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see Shift Lock Release on page 178

To shift from:

Do this:

Press the brake pedal and press the release button.

Press the release button.

Move the lever.

Pto R

RtoP Nto R Sto L LtoS Sto D Dto S Dto N Nto D RtoN

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You must also press the release button to shift into Park. To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch.

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

−

Reverse (R) To shift from Re- verse to Park, see the explanation under Park. To shift to Reverse from Neutral, come to a complete stop first. Press the release button before shifting into Reverse from Neutral.

−

Use Neutral if you

Neutral (N) need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Always shift to Park position if you need to leave the vehicle for any reason. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from Neutral to another position.

−

Drive (D) Use this position for your normal driving. The transmis- sion automatically adjusts to keep the engine at the best speed for driving conditions. To help the engine warm up faster, the transmis- sion will select ratios that allow the engine to run at higher speeds when it is cold.

−

Selecting Second

Second (S) shifts the transmission into a lower range of ratios for better accelera- tion and increased engine braking. Use Second when you are going down a steep hill, or in stop-and-go driving.

−

To shift to Low, press

Low (L) the release button on the front of the shift lever. Use Low to get more power when climbing, and for maximum engine braking when going down steep hills.

For faster acceleration when in D, S or L, the transmission will automatically ‘‘kick down’’ to a lower range of ratios by pushing the accelerator pedal to the floor.

Maximum Allowable Speeds The CVT shifts automatically to maintain proper engine speed in any shift position.

When the vehicle reaches the maximum speed in any shift position, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter (112
mph, 180 km/h) in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the speed to below the maximum.

Driving

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If the car is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb. If you have a manual transmission, put it in first gear.

If the car is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb. If you have a manual transmission, put it in reverse gear.

Make sure the parking brake is fully released before driving away. Driving with the parking brake partially set can overheat or damage the rear brakes.

Parking Tips

Make sure the moonroof and the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc., in the trunk or take them with you.

Lock the doors with the key or the remote transmitter.

Never park over dry leaves, tall grass, or other flammable materials. The three way catalytic converter gets very hot, and could cause these materials to catch on fire.

Parking

Always use the parking brake when you park your car. The indicator on the instrument panel shows that the parking brake is not fully released; it does not indicate that the parking brake is firmly set. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly or your car may roll if it is parked on an incline.

If your car has an automatic transmission, set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the car from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission making it easier to move the shift lever out of Park when you want to drive away.

−

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The Braking System

All Civics are equipped with front disc brakes. The brakes on the rear wheels are drum. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal.

Put your foot on the brake pedal only when you intend to brake. Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, causing them to build up heat. Heat build-up can reduce how well your brakes work. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you.

Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by downshifting to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal.

Check your brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Since a longer distance is needed to stop with wet brakes, be extra cautious and alert in your driving.

Brake Wear Indicators The front disc brakes on all models have audible brake wear indicators. When the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive metallic ‘‘screeching’’ sound when you apply the brakes. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will begin screeching all the time.

Your brakes may sometimes squeal or squeak when you apply them lightly. Do not confuse this with the brake wear indicators. They make a very audible ‘‘screeching.’’

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Anti-lock Brakes The U.S. EX model and Canadian Si-G model have an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as standard equipment.

ABS helps to prevent the wheels from locking up and skidding during hard braking, allowing you to retain steering control.

When the front tires skid, you lose steering control; the car continues straight ahead even though you turn the steering wheel. The ABS helps to prevent lock-up and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly; much faster than a person can do it.

You should never pump the brake pedal; this defeats the purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal as you steer away from the hazard. This is sometimes referred to as ‘‘stompandsteer.’’

You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and you may hear some noise. This is normal; it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes.

The Braking System

Brake System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.

Front

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The Braking System

Activation varies with the amount of traction your tires have. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before you activate the ABS. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

ImportantSafetyReminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the car; only helps with steering control during braking. You should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.

it

A vehicle with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a vehicle without anti- lock. Slow down and allow a greater distance between vehicles under those conditions.

ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly, such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change. Always drive at a safe, prudent speed for the road and weather conditions.

ABS cannot prevent a loss of stability. Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your car to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road.

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The Braking System

ABSIndicator

ABS INDICATOR

65

U.S.EXandCanadianSi-G The ABS is self-checking. If anything goes wrong, the ABS indicator on the instrument panel comes on (see page ). This means the anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system without anti- lock, providing normal stopping ability. You should have the dealer inspect your car as soon as possible.

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Driving in Bad Weather

−

Always drive

Driving Technique slower than you would in dry weather. It takes your car longer to react, even in conditions that may seem just barely damp. Apply smooth, even pressure to all the controls. Abrupt steering wheel movements or sudden, hard appli- cation of the brakes can cause loss of control in wet weather. Be extra cautious for the first few miles (kilometers) of driving while you adjust to the change in driving conditions. This is especially true in snow. A person can forget some snow-driving techniques during the summer months. Practice is needed to relearn those skills.

−

Being able to see

Visibility clearly in all directions and being visible to other drivers are important in all weather conditions. This is more difficult in bad weather. To be seen more clearly during daylight hours, turn on your headlights.

Inspect your windshield wipers and washers frequently. Keep the wind- shield washer reservoir full of the proper fluid. Have the windshield wiper blades replaced if they start to streak the windshield or leave parts unwiped. Use the defrosters and air conditioning to keep the windows from fogging up on the inside (see page

115

).

Exercise extra caution when driving in rain after a long dry spell. After months of dry weather, the first rains bring oil to the surface of the roadway, making it slippery.

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Driving 187

Rain, fog, and snow conditions require a different driving technique because of reduced traction and visibility. Keep your car well- maintained and exercise greater caution when you need to drive in bad weather. The cruise control should not be used in these conditions.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing a Trailer Your vehicle is not designed to tow a trailer. Attempting to do so can void your warranties.

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Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer

Traction − Check your tires frequently for wear and proper pressure. Both are important in preventing ‘‘hydroplaning’’ (loss of traction on a wet surface). In the winter, mount snow tires on all four wheels for the best handling.

Watch road conditions carefully, they can change from moment to moment. Wet leaves can be as slip- pery as ice. ‘‘Clear’’ roads can have patches of ice. Driving conditions can be very hazardous when the outside temperature is near freezing. The road surface can become covered with areas of water puddles mixed with areas of ice, so your traction can change without warning.

Be careful when downshifting. If traction is low, you can lock up the drive wheels for a moment and cause a skid.

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Be very cautious when passing, or being passed by other vehicles. The spray from large vehicles reduces your visibility, and the wind buffeting can cause you to lose control.

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Maintenance

This section explains why it is important to keep your car well maintained and how to follow basic maintenance safety precautions.

This section also includes Maintenance Schedules for normal driving and severe driving conditions, a Maintenance Record, and instruc- tions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.

If you have the skills and tools to per- form more complex maintenance tasks on your Honda, you may want to purchase the Service Manual. See page for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your Honda dealer.

303

Maintenance Safety

...................... . 190
Important Safety Precautions . 191
Maintenance Schedule ................. . 192
Required Maintenance Record . 199
... . 201
Owner Maintenance Checks ....... .............................. Fluid Locations . 202
. 203
...................................... Engine Oil . 203
.................................. . 203
.................... . 204
.............................. .................................... . 204
. 205
..... . 207
............................. . 207
............ . 209
....... .................... . 213
. 214
.......................

Adding Oil Recommended Oil Synthetic Oil Additives Changing the Oil and Filter

Adding Engine Coolant Replacing Engine Coolant

Windshield Washers Transmission Fluid

Cooling System

.........................

. 214

Automatic

Transmission 5-speed Manual Transmission

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake System Clutch System

Power Steering Air Cleaner Element

......................... ................ ............................ ........................... .............................. .....................

. 216
. 217
. 217
. 217
. 218
. 219

Hood Latch Spark Plugs

Replacement Specifications

.................................... .................................... .............................. ............................ ........................................... ................................. .............. .................. ..................................... .................................... ............................................... ......................................

Battery Wiper Blades Air Conditioning System Dust and Pollen Filter Drive Belts Timing Belt Tires

Inflation

. 220
. 221
. 221
. 223
. 224
. 226
. 228
. 229
. 231
. 231
. 232
. 232

Recommended Tire Pressures

for Normal Driving

Inspection Maintenance Tire Rotation Replacing Tires and Wheels Wheels and Tires Winter Driving

........... .................................. .............................. ............................. ... ...................... .......................... ............................. ................... ............................................. ..................... ........................ ...........................

Headlight Aiming Replacing Bulbs

Snow Tires Traction Devices

. 233
. 234
. 234
. 235
. 236
. 237
. 237
. 237
. 238
. 239
. 241
. 241
. 248

Storing Your Car

Lights

Maintenance

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Maintenance Safety

Regularly maintaining your car is the best way to protect your investment. Proper maintenance is essential to your safety and the safety of your passengers. It will also reward you with more economical, trouble-free driving and help reduce air pollution.

This section includes instructions for simple maintenance tasks, such as checking and adding oil. Any service items not detailed in this section should be performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.

Some of the most important safety precautions are given here. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.

Improperly maintaining this car or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner’s manual.

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Maintenance

Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.

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Maintenance Safety

Important Safety Precautions Before you begin any maintenance, make sure your car is parked on level ground and that the parking brake is set. Also, be sure the engine is off. This will help to eliminate several potential hazards: