2006 Honda Civic Coupe Owners Manual

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Fluid Locations

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, and EX models

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange handle)

BRAKE FLUID (Black cap)

POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)

WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

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CLUTCH FLUID (Manual transmission only) (Light gray cap)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)

ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP

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Si model

WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange handle)

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

BRAKE FLUID (Black cap)

Fluid Locations

CLUTCH FLUID (Light gray cap)

ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP

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

Si model:

The oil viscosity or weight is provided on the container’s label.

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, and EX models: Honda Motor Oil is the preferred 5W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. 5W-20 oil is formulated for year- round protection of your vehicle, to improve cold weather starting and fuel economy.

Ambient Temperature

Ambient Temperature

An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 is preferred for improved fuel economy and year-round protection in your vehicle. You may use a 10W-30 oil if the temperature in your area never goes below 20°F (

7°C).

−

Adding Engine Oil

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. You must follow the oil and filter change intervals shown on the information display.

Engine Oil Additives Your vehicle does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect the engine or transmission performance and durability.

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DRAIN BOLT

WASHER

WASHER

DRAIN BOLT

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX

1.

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

Si Open the hood, and remove the 2. engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

Changing the Oil and Filter

Always change the oil and filter according to the maintenance messages shown on the information display. The oil and filter collect contaminants that can damage your engine if they are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle 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.

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OIL FILTER

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX

Si

3.

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

Make sure the oil filter gasket is not stuck to the engine block. If it is, remove it before installing a new oil filter.

4.

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

Make sure to clean off any dirt and dust on the connecting surface of a new oil filter.

5.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten the drain bolt to: 29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)

Changing the Oil and Filter

6.

Refill the engine with the recommended oil. Engine oil change capacity (including filter):

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX 3.9 US qt (3.7 )

Si 4.6 US qt (4.4 )

7.

Replace the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator should go out within 5
seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine, and check your work.

8.

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

CONTINUED

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Changing the Oil and Filter, Engine Coolant

9.

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

Adding Engine Coolant

RESERVE TANK

RESERVE TANK

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.

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DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX 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.

Si

Always use Honda Long-life Anti- freeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

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If Honda antifreeze/coolant 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. 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.

Engine Coolant

RADIATOR CAP

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX

1.

Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.

2.

Relieve any pressure in the cooling system by turning the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pressing down.

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Engine Coolant

RADIATOR CAP

RESERVE TANK

RESERVE TANK

Si 3.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

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DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX The coolant level should be up to 4. the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low.

Pour the coolant slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

5.

Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten it fully.

Si Pour coolant into the reserve tank. 6. 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 vehicle’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine components.

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Check the fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal use.

LEVEL GAUGE

LEVEL GAUGE

Si

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX

Check the fluid level by removing the cap and looking at the level gauge.

OnCanadianmodels: level indicator comes on when the level is low (see page

The low washer

61

).

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 vehicle’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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Automatic Transmission Fluid

DIPSTICK

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

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

1.

Park the vehicle on level ground. Shut off the engine.

2.

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

3.

4.

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

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

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5.

If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the dipstick hole to bring it to the upper mark.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

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

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6.

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

The automatic transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the information display.

If you are not sure how to add fluid, contact your dealer.

Automatic Transmission Fluid, Manual Transmission Fluid

Manual Transmission Fluid

FILLER BOLT

FILLER BOLT

Correct Level

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX

Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the vehicle 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 Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt, and tighten it securely.

Correct Level

Si 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.

CONTINUED

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Manual Transmission Fluid, Brake and Clutch Fluid

The manual transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the information display.

If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer.

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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.

Brake Fluid Check the brake fluid level in the reservoirs monthly.

Replace the brake fluid according to the time recommendations in the maintenance minder schedule.

Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement.

Using any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.

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

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Brake and Clutch Fluid, Power Steering Fluid

Power Steering Fluid

compartment.

Clutch Fluid ManualTransmissiononly

UPPER LEVEL

MAX

MIN

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.

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

LOWER LEVEL

AllmodelsexceptSi Check the level on the side of the reservoir when the engine is cold. The fluid should be between the UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL. If not add power steering fluid to the UPPER LEVEL mark.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine

Always use Honda Power Steering Fluid. You may use another power steering fluid as an emergency replacement, but have the power steering system flushed and refilled with Honda PSF as soon as possible.

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.

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Lights

Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk, readjustment may be required. Adjustment should be done by your dealer or other qualified mechanic.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb Your vehicle has halogen headlight bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its base, and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

HighBeamHeadlight

CLIP

COOLANT TUBE

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

1.

Open the hood.

To change a bulb on the driver’s side, remove the coolant tube from the two clips, then remove the reserve tank from its holder by pulling it straight up.

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HOLDER

TAB

CONNECTOR

BULB

2.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab to unlock it, then slide the connector off the bulb.

3.

Remove the bulb by turning it about one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Lights

4.

5.

Insert the new bulb into the hole, and turn it one-quarter turn clock- wise to lock it in place.

Push the electrical connector back onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.

6.

Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

7.

(Driver’s side) Put the tube back in the clips and install the reserve tank back in place, making sure its bottom tab is in the holder.

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Lights

LowBeamHeadlight

SCREW

1.

To change the driver’s side bulb, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right, and turn off the engine. To change the passenger’s side bulb, turn the steering wheel to the left.

2.

3.

Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw from the inner fender, and pull the inner fender cover back.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab to unlock it, then slide the connector off the bulb.

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4.

5.

6.

Remove the bulb from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Insert the new bulb into the hole, and turn it one-quarter turn clock- wise to lock it in place.

Push the electrical connector back onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.

7.

Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

8.

Reinstall the inner fender cover. Then reinstall the screw and tighten it securely.

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Replacing the Front Side Marker/ Parking/Turn Signal Light Bulb

1.

To change the driver’s side bulb, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right, and turn off the engine. To change the passenger’s side bulb, turn the steering wheel to the left.

2.

Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw from the inner fender, and pull the inner fender cover back.

3.

Remove the socket from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Lights

4.

Remove the bulb from the socket by pushing the bulb in and turning it counterclockwise until it unlocks.

5.

Install the new bulb in the socket. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

6.

Insert the socket back into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

7.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

8.

Reinstall the inner fender cover. Then reinstall the screw and tighten it securely.

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Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs

FASTENER

1.

Open the trunk.

Remove the screw in the center of the fastener on the side of the trunk lining. Pull the lining back.

2.

Determine which of the four bulbs is burned out: stop/taillight, back- up light, side marker light, or turn signal light.

3.

Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

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4.

5.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

Reinstall the socket into the light assembly by turning it clockwise until it locks.

6.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

7.

8.

Reinstall the trunk lining. Make sure it is installed under the edge of the trunk seal.

Put the fastener into the hole on the side of the trunk lining. Reinstall the screw.

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Tires

Tire Maintenance In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment.

Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

Forvehiclesequippedwithaluminum wheels: Improper wheel weights can damage your vehicle’s wheels. Use only Honda wheel weights f or balancing.

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Tire Wear OnSimodelonly The tires that came on your vehicle were designed and constructed to provide superior grip during acceleration, braking, and cornering.

As a trade-off, they will wear more rapidly than tires used on ordinary passenger vehicles. Because of the vehicle’s weight distribution, and the fact that the front wheels are the driving wheels, you can expect them to wear more rapidly than the rear tires.

Tire Rotation

Front

Front

(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels)

(For Directional Tires and Wheels)

To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires according to the maintenance messages displayed on the information display. Move the tires to the positions shown in the chart each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to-back.

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The mileage you can expect from your vehicle tires is the same as comparable mid-and rear-engine sports cars, and it will vary greatly with your driving habits.

If you drive moderately, the front tires could last more than 10,000
miles (16,000 km). However, the mileage will be substantially less if you tend to drive your vehicle at the upper limits of its capabilities.

You should carefully inspect your vehicle’s tires for wear, damage, and proper inflation every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).

Replacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall).

Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS to work inconsistently.

It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, replace the two front tires or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling.

Tires

The ABS works by comparing the speed of the wheels. When replacing tires, use the same size originally supplied with the vehicle. Tire size and construction can affect wheel speed and may cause the system to activate.

If you ever replace a wheel, make sure the new one matches the specifications of the original. Replacement wheels are available at your dealer.

Installing improper tires on your vehicle can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owner’s manual.

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Tires

Tires:

DX and Canadian DX-G

P195/65R15 89H

LX, EX

P205/55R16 89H

Si

P215/45R17 87V

215/45R17 91W

(all season tire)

(summer tire)

280

for information about

See page DOT Tire Quality Grading, and page 282
information.

for tire size and labeling

Winter Driving Tires marked ‘‘M Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions.

S’’ or ‘‘All

＋

For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.

SnowTires If you mount snow tires on your vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads maybelowerthanyouroriginaltires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.

Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels:

DX and Canadian DX-G

15 x 6 J

LX, EX

16 x 6 1/2 J

Si

17 x 7 J

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TireChains DX,CanadianDX-G,LXandEXmodels Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’ cable-type traction devices, with rubber chain tensioners, on the front tires. Use traction devices only when required by driving conditions or local laws. Make sure they are the correct size for your tires. Metal link- type ‘‘chains’’ should not be used.

When installing cables, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and mount them as tight as you can. Make sure they are not contacting the brake lines or suspension. Drive slowly with them installed. If you hear them coming into contact with the body or chassis, stop and investigate. Remove them as soon as you begin driving on cleared roads.

Tires

Simodel Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, Honda strongly recommends using the chains listed below, made by Security Chain Company (SCC).

CH2311T

Traction devices that are the wrong size or improperly installed can damage your vehicle’s brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are hitting any part of the vehicle.

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Checking the Battery

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

If additional battery maintenance is needed, see your dealer or a qualified technician.

Battery posts,

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

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX Check the condition of the battery monthly by looking at the test indicator window. The label on the battery explains the test indicator’s colors.

Si

Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent further corrosion.

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Checking the Battery

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicle’s electrical system. Always disconnect the negative ( ) cable first, and − reconnect it last.

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled mechanic do the battery maintenance.

If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. The next timeyouturnontheradioyouwill see ‘‘ENTER CODE’’ in the frequency display. Use the preset buttons to enter the code (see page 172

).

On vehicles with navigation system The navigation system will also disableitself.Thenexttimeyouturn on the ignition switch, the system will require you to enter a PIN before it can be used. Refer to the navigation system manual.

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Vehicle Storage

If you need to park your vehicle for an extended period (more than 1
month), there are several things you should do to prepare it for storage. Proper preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your vehicle back on the road. If possible, store your vehicle indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Block the rear wheels.

If the vehicle is to be stored for a longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (if the vehicle is being stored indoors).

Change the engine oil and filter.

Disconnect the battery.

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

Clean the interior. Make sure the carpeting, floor mats, etc., are completely dry.

Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in reverse (manual) or Park (automatic).

Support the front wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield.

To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and trunk seals. Also, apply a vehicle body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and trunk seals.

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Cover the vehicle with a ‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made from a porous material such as cotton. Non-porous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.

If possible, periodically run the engine until it reaches full operating temperature (the cooling fans cycle on and off twice). Preferably, do this once a month.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more common problems that motorists experience with their vehicles. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your vehicle towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If the Engine Won’t Start Jump Starting If the Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp Brake System Indicator Fuses Fuse Locations Emergency Towing

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Compact Spare Tire

Use the compact spare tire as a temporary replacement only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced, and put it back on your vehicle as soon as you can.

Check the inflation pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to:

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

Follow these precautions:

Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road sur- faces. Use greater caution while driving.

252

Do not mount tire chains on the compact spare tire.

Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle unless it is thesamemakeandmodel.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

OnSimodel

Do not use a compact spare tire mounted on a front wheel; it will damage the limited slip differential (see page

253

).

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR

Replace the tire when you can see the tread wear indicator bars. The replacement should be the same size and design tire, mounted on the same wheel. The spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the spare wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

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If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area that is far away from the traffic lanes.

The compact spare tire is smaller than a standard tire, and it will affect the vehicle’s handling. Drive cautiously when the spare is mounted on your vehicle.

OnSimodelonly The size difference may also cause damage to the differential, so do not mount the compact spare on the front. If either front tire goes flat, remove the rear tire on that same side, mount the compact spare tire on the rear, then mount the rear tire on the front.

The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.

1.

2.

Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. Put the transmission in Park (automatic) or reverse (manual). Apply the parking brake.

Turn on the hazard warning lights, and turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position. Have all passengers get out of the vehicle while you change the tire.

Changing a Flat Tire

JACK

TOOL CASE

SPARE TIRE

TRUNK FLOOR Open the trunk. Raise the trunk floor by lifting up on the back edge.

3.

4.

Take the tool kit case out of the trunk.

5.

Unscrew the wing bolt, and take the spare tire out of its well.

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Changing a Flat Tire

JACKING POINTS

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

6.

Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn with the wheel nut wrench.

7.

Place the jack under the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

8.

9.

WHEEL NUT WRENCH EXTENSION Use the extension and the wheel nut wrench as shown to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.

Remove the wheel nuts, then remove the flat tire. Handle the wheel nuts carefully; they may be hot from driving. Place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface facing up.

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Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL NUTS

WHEEL NUTS WHEEL COVER

BRAKE HUB

DX,CanadianDX-G, andLXmodels Do not attempt to forcibly pry the wheel cover off with a screwdriver or other tool. The wheel cover cannot be removed without first removing the wheel nuts.

10.

Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth. Wipe the hub carefully; it may be hot from driving.

11.

Put on the spare tire. Put the wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel nut wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten them fully.

12.

Lower the vehicle to the ground, and remove the jack.

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Changing a Flat Tire

SPACER CONE

WING BOLT

For compact spare tire

For normal tire

15.

Place the flat tire face down in the spare tire well.

16.

Remove the spacer cone from the wing bolt, turn it over, and put it back on the bolt.

17.

Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole.

13.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility.

Tighten the wheel nuts to: 80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

14.

OnEXandSimodelsintheU.S.,and LX, EX, andSimodelsinCanada Remove the center cap from the flat tire.

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18.

Store the jack and tools in the tool kit case. Place the tool kit case in the center of the flat tire.

Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and could seriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack, and tools securely before driving.

19.

Store the wheel cover or center cap in the trunk. Make sure it does not get scratched or damaged.

20.

Lower the trunk floor, then close the trunk lid.

Changing a Flat Tire, If the Engine Won’t Start

If the Engine Won’t Start Diagnosing why the engine won’t start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position:

You hear nothing, or almost nothing. The engine’s starter motor does not operate at all, or operates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motor operating normally, or the starter motor sounds like it is spinning faster than normal, but the engine does not start up and run.

Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly When you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position, you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound or series of clicks, or nothing at all. Check these things:

Check the transmission interlock. If you have a manual transmission, the clutch pedal must be pushed all the way to the floor or the starter will not operate. With an automatic transmission, it must be in Park or neutral.

Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. Turn on the headlights, and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or do not come on at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting

on page

259
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If the Engine Won’t Start

The Starter Operates Normally In this case, the starter motor’s speed sounds normal, or even faster than normal, when you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position, but the engine does not run.

Are you using a properly coded key? An improperly coded key will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the instrument panel ). to blink rapidly (see page

75

Are you using the proper starting Starting the procedure? Refer to Engine 194

on page

Turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position. If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If the fuses areOK,thereisprobably something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified technician to determine the problem (see Emergency Towing

on page

272

).

If the headlights dim noticeably or go out when you try to start the engine, either the battery is dis- charged or the connections are corroded. Check the condition of the battery and terminal connec- tions (see page then try jump starting the vehicle from a booster battery (see page 259

). You can

248

).

258

Do you have fuel? Check the fuel gauge; the low fuel indicator may not be working.

There may be an electrical problem, such as no power to the fuel pump. Check all the fuses (see page

266

).

Ifyoufindnothingwrong,youwill need a qualified technician to find the problem. See Towing on page

Emergency 272

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Although this seems like a simple procedure, you should take several precautions.

A battery can explode if you do not follow the correct procedure, seriously injuring anyone nearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.

You cannot start your vehicle with an automatic transmission by pushing or pulling it.

To jump start your vehicle: 1.

Open the hood, and check the physical condition of the battery. In very cold weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or frozen, do not try jump starting until it thaws.

If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can f reeze. Attempting to jump start with a f rozen battery can cause it to rupture.

2.

Turn off all the electrical accessories: heater, A/C, audio system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in neutral (M/T) or Park (A/T), and set the parking brake.

Jump Starting

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX

BOOSTER BATTERY

The numbers in the illustrations show you the order to connect the jumper cables.

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Jump Starting

Si

DX, Canadian DX-G, LX, EX

Si

BOOSTER BATTERY

3.

＋

) terminal on your

Connect one jumper cable to the positive ( battery. Connect the other end to the positive ( ) terminal on the ＋ booster battery.

6.

Start the vehicle. If the starter motor still operates slowly, check that the jumper cables have good metal-to-metal contact.

4.

−

Connect the second jumper cable to the negative ( ) terminal on the booster battery. Connect the other end to the grounding strap as shown. Do not connect this jumper cable to any other part of the engine.

5.

If the booster battery is in another vehicle, have an assistant start that vehicle and run it at a fast idle.

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7.

Once your vehicle is running, disconnect the negative cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery.

Keep the ends of the jumper cables away from each other and any metal on the vehicle until everything is disconnected. Otherwise, you may cause an electrical short.

Jump Starting, If the Engine Overheats

If the Engine Overheats The pointer of the vehicle’s temperature gauge should stay in the midrange. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason (hot day, driving up a steep hill, etc.).

If the vehicle overheats, you should take immediate action. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the hood.

Driving with the temperature gauge pointer at the red mark can cause serious damage to the engine.

Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

1.

Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in neutral (M/T) or Park (A/T), and set the parking brake. Turn off all accessories, and turn on the hazard warning indicators.

2.

If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.

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If the Engine Overheats

3.

If you do not see steam or spray, leave the engine running, and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading, the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the temperature gauge comes down to the midpoint, then continue driving.

4.

If the temperature gauge stays at the red mark, turn off the engine.

5.

Look for any obvious coolant leaks, such as a split radiator hose. Everything is still extremely hot, so use caution. If you find a leak, it must be repaired before you continue driving (see Emergency ). Towing 272

on page

6.

If you don’t find an obvious leak, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank (see page ). Add coolant if the level is 185
below the MIN mark.

262

7.

If there was no coolant in the reserve tank, you may need to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the reading reaches the middle of the temperature gauge or lower before checking the radiator.

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

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

9.

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

10.

Put the radiator cap back on tightly. Run the engine, and watch the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair (see on page Towing

Emergency 272

).

8.

Using gloves or a large heavy cloth, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pushing down, to the first stop. After the pressure releases, push down on the cap, and turn it until it comes off.

11.

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

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Low Oil Pressure Indicator, Charging System Indicator

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

This indicator should never