1993 Honda Civic DEL SOL Owners Manual

interfere with your ability to operate the controls.

Be sure to keep compartment doors closed when the car is moving. If a passenger hits the door of an open glove box, for example, he could injure his knees.

Driving with Pets Loose pets can be a hazard while you are driving. An unrestrained pet can interfere with your ability to drive the car. In a crash or sudden stop, loose pets or cages can be thrown around inside the car and hurt you. It is also for then- safety that pets should be properly restrained in your car.

A small dog, cat, or other small animal will be safest in a pet carrier with rigid sides. Choose a style that allows you to secure it to the car's seat by routing a seat belt through the carrier's handle.

For further information, contact your veterinarian or local animal protection society.

The recommended way to restrain a medium-sized or larger dog is with a special traveling harness. This harness can be secured to the seat with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are available at pet stores.

Driver and Passenger Safety

An infant or child who is not properly restrained can be killed or seriously injured in a crash.

Be sure any child too small for seat belts is properly secured in a child restraint.

Child Safety

Where Should Children Sit? We recommend that, you secure your child's infant or toddler seat in the passenger's seat with the car's lap/shoulder belt and a locking clip (see page 18).

We also recommend that a child who has outgrown a toddler seat be protected by properly wearing the lap/shoulder belt (see page 18).

Driver and Passenger Safety

Children depend on adults to protect them. To help make sure we do, every state and Canadian province has laws requiring infants and young children to be properly restrained whenever they ride in a car.

To properly route a seat belt through a child seat, follow the seat maker's instructions. You must use a locking clip with a lap/shoulder belt (see page 18).

Secure the child in the child seat. Make sure the infant or child is firmly secured to the child seat. Use the straps provided, and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Child Safety

Important Safety Reminders Never hold a baby or child on your lap when riding in a car. If you are wearing your seat belt, the violent forces created during a crash will tear the child from your arms. The child could be seriously hurt or killed.

If you are holding a child and not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could crush the child against the car's interior.

Never put your seat belt over yourself and a child. During a crash, the belt could press deep into the child, causing serious internal injuries.

Two children should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash.

General Guidelines for Restraining Children Under 18 kg (40 lbs) Use an approved child seat. The seat must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS-213) or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Look for the manufac- turer's statement of compliance on the box and seat.

Use a seat of the right size. Make sure the seat fits your child. Check the seat manufacturer's instruc- tions and labels for height and weight limits.

Secure the child seat to the car. All approved child seats are designed to be secured to the car seat by the lap belt portion of a lap/shoulder belt. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the car can be endangered in a crash.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Restraining an Infant Who Weighs Less Than 9 kg (20 lbs)

We recommend that you put the infant seat in the passenger's seat and secure it to the car with the lap/shoulder belt. You must use a locking clip with the car's lap/shoulder belt (see page 18).

An infant up to about 9 kg (20 lbs) must be restrained in an infant seat or a convertible seat designed for a baby. Because infants must ride in a reclining position, be sure the infant seat always faces the REAR of the car as shown.

Child Safety

Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 lbs)

Toddler seats are designed for children who weigh between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs). The toddler seat should be secured to the passenger's seat with the lap/ shoulder belt. You must use a locking clip with the lap/shoulder belt (see page 18).

Driver and Passenger Safety

Put the seat belt on your child and check its fit. The shoulder belt should fit over the collarbone and across the chest. The lap belt should sit low on your child's hips, not across the stomach.

If the shoulder belt crosses the neck, you should use a booster seat.

Several styles of booster seats are available. We recommend a design that allows the child to use the car's lap/shoulder belt.

Whichever style you select, follow the booster seat manufacturer's instructions.

Using a Seat Belt Locking Clip Always use a seat belt locking clip when you secure a child seat to your car with a lap/shoulder belt. This helps prevent the seat from shifting position or overturning.

A locking clip is usually included with the child seat. If you need a clip, contact the seat's manufac- turer or a store that sells child restraints.

Child Safety

Restraining a Child Who Weighs Over 18 kg (40 Ibs)

We recommend that a child who has outgrown a toddler seat be protected by properly wearing the lap/shoulder belt.

Driver and Passenger Safety

To install a locking clip, do the following:

1. Place the child restraint in the desired position. Route the lap/ shoulder belt through the restraint according to the seat manufacturer's instructions.

2. Insert the latch plate into the

buckle. Pull on the shoulder part of the belt to make sure there is no slack in the lap portion.

3. Tightly grasp the belt near the latch plate. Pinch both parts of the belt together so they won't slip through the latch plate. Un- buckle the seat belt.

Child Safety

Using Child Restraints with Tethers

4. Install the locking clip as shown.

Position the clip as close as possible to the latch plate.

5. Insert the latch plate into the buckle. Push and pull on the child seat to verify that it is held firmly in place. If it is not, repeat these steps until the restraint is secure.

Your Honda is equipped with an attachment point for a child restraint system that uses a top tether. The tether attachment point is located on the panel behind the passenger's seat-back.

1. Adjust the passenger's seat fully

forward to make room behind the seat-back.

CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety

Child Safety

2. Remove the plug with a small

flat-tipped screw driver or fingernail file.

3. Install the tether hardware that

came with the child seat. Tighten to: 22 N.m (2.2 kg-m,16 Ib-ft)

Make sure to route the tether through the space between the head restraint and seat.

If you are not sure how to install the bracket, have it installed by your Honda dealer.

If you need an anchor plate and mounting hardware, you can obtain them by writing to:

Canadian Cars

TOOTHED WASHER

Storing a Child Seat When you are not using an infant seat or other child restraint, either remove it or make sure it is properly secured so it cannot be thrown around the car during a crash.

The anchor plate and mounting hardware for a top tether are supplied with the car. When installing, make sure the toothed washer is on the bottom of the bolt.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Consumer Affairs 1919 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90501-2746

The supplied anchor plate is designed only for mounting a child restraint. Do not use it for any other purpose.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Alcohol and Drugs

Driving a car requires your full at- tention and alertness. Traffic condi- tions change rapidly. You must be able to react just as rapidly. Alcohol or drugs directly affect your alert- ness and ability to react. Even pre- scription and non-prescription medi- cines can have this effect.

There are laws that deal with drunken driving. These laws define how much alcohol it takes in your system to be legally "drunk." How- ever, your judgment and reaction time get worse with every drink— even the first one.

The safest thing you can do is never drink and drive. This can be done if you plan ahead. If you know you are going to be drinking, make plans to ride with a friend who will not be drinking.

If you have no choice but to drive, stop drinking and give yourself lots of time to sober up. Time is the only thing that can make you sober. Things like coffee or a cold shower don't speed up the process.

What if you find that you've been drinking and cannot get a ride from a friend? Find alternative transpor- tation. Call a taxi. Take a bus. Many communities have transporta- tion services devoted to shuttling people who have been drinking.

If you see friends trying to get behind the wheel after drinking, stop them. Drive them yourself or arrange other transportation. If you think you are interfering, remem- ber that your interference will keep them from sharing the road with you.

Driver and Passenger Safety

If you must sit in your parked car, even in an unconfined area, with the engine running, adjust the heating and cooling system as follows:

1. Select the Fresh Air mode. 2. Select the 3. Turn the fan on high speed. 4. Set the temperature control to a

mode.

comfortable setting.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Your car's exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas. You should have no problem with carbon monoxide entering the car in normal driving if you maintain your car properly. Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever:

The car is raised for an oil change. You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust. The car was in an accident that may have damaged the under- side.

High levels of carbon monoxide can collect rapidly in enclosed areas, such as a garage. Do not run the engine with the garage door closed. Even with the door open, run the engine only long enough to move the car out of the garage.

With the trunk lid open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your car's interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the trunk lid open, open all the windows and set the heating and cooling system as shown in the next column.

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause uncon- sciousness and can even kill you.

Avoid any enclosed areas or activities that expose you to carbon monoxide.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Reporting Safety Defects (US Cars)

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addi- tion to notifying American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

If NHTSA receives similar com- plaints, it may open an investiga- tion, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA can- not become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366- 0123 in Washington D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Safety Labels

These labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully and don't remove them.

If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer for a replacement.

BATTERY

Driver and Passenger Safety

RADIATOR CAP

This section gives information about the controls and displays that contribute to the daily operation of your Honda. All the essential controls are within easy reach.

Control Locations........................... 26
Indicator Lights.............................. 27
Gauges.............................................. 32
Speedometer................................ 32
Tachometer................................. 32
Odometer..................................... 32
Trip Meter................................... 32
Fuel Gauge.................................. 33
Temperature Gauge.................. 33

Controls Near the Steering

Wheel........................................ 34
Headlights................................... 35
Daytime Running Lights.......... 35
Instrument Panel Brightness... 36
Turn Signals................................ 36
Windshield Wipers..................... 37
Windshield Washers.................. 37
Auxiliary Lights......................... 38
Hazard Warning......................... 38
Rear Window Defogger............ 38
Steering Wheel Adjustment..... 39
Steering Wheel Controls............... 40
Cruise Control............................. 40
Horn.............................................. 42

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks.............................. 43
Keys.............................................. 43
Ignition Switch........................... 43
Door Locks.................................. 44
Trunk........................................... 45
Rear Locking Compartment.... 46
Seat Adjustments........................... 46
Power Windows.............................. 47
Removable Roof Panel.................. 49
Removing and Storing.............. 50
Installing...................................... 51
Roof Holder................................. 53
Roof Unlatched Indicator......... 53
Mirrors............................................. 54
Parking Brake................................. 55
Glove Box......................................... 56
Digital Clock................................... 56
Console Compartment................... 57
Cup Holder...................................... 57
Sun Visor......................................... 58
Cigarette Lighter........................... 58
Ashtrays........................................... 58
Interior Light.................................. 59

Instruments and Controls

Control Locations

DIGITAL CLOCK (P.56)

HEATING/ COOLING CONTROL (P.62)

MIRROR CONTROLS (P.54)

POWER WINDOW SWITCH (P.47)

FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE (P.72)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.73)

Instruments and Controls

The instrument panel has many indicators to give you important information about your car.

Lamp Check Many of the indicator lights come on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II), allowing you to see that they are working. The instru- ment panel should look like the illustration. If an indicator does not light during this test, it cannot alert you if that system develops a prob- lem. Have the dealer check your car for burned-out bulbs or other problems.

* The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadi- an model are noted in the text.

Indicator Lights

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM LIGHT*

ROOF AND TRUNK MONITOR

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM LIGHT

LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP/ CHECK ENGINE LIGHT*

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Indicator Lights

Seat Belt Reminder Light

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder to you and your passenger to protect yourselves by fastening the seat belts. A beeper also sounds if you have not fastened your seat belt.

If you do not fasten your seat belt, the beeper will stop after a few seconds but the light stays on until you do. Both the light and the beeper stay off if you fasten your seat belt before turning on the ignition.

Instruments and Controls

Charging System Light

This light indicates the battery is not being charged. It should come on when the ignition is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. If this light comes on while driving, the battery is not being charged. Turn to page 159 for information about what to do.

Low Oil Pressure Light

This indicator lights when the oil pressure in the engine drops low enough to cause damage. It should light when the ignition is ON (II) and go put after the engine starts. If this light comes on when the engine is running, there is a possi- bility of serious engine damage. Safely pull to the side of the road and shut off the engine as soon as you can. Turn to page 158 for in- structions and precautions on checking the engine.

US Canada

Parking Brake and Brake System Light

BRAKE This light has two functions:

1. It lights as a reminder that you

have set the parking brake. Driving with the parking brake set can damage the brakes and tires.

2. It can indicate the brake fluid

level is low if it remains lit after you release the parking brake or comes on while driving. This is normally due to worn brake pads. Have your dealer check the braking system for worn pads or fluid leaks.

S R S

Supplemental Restraint System Indicator

The SRS light normally comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition ON (II). If it doesn't, or it stays on after the engine starts, something is wrong with the Supplemental Restraint System. It may also flash on and off to indi- cate a problem.

If you see any of these indications, the airbag may not work when needed in an accident. Take the car to your dealer promptly for diag- nosis and service.

Indicator Lights

US

Canada

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Roof and Trunk Monitor

ROOF UNLATCHED INDICATOR

TRUNK OPEN INDICATOR

This light comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it indicates one of the engine's emission control systems may have a problem. Turn to page 160 for information about what to do.

REAR WINDOW INDICATOR

The roof and trunk monitor includes three indicators, the Roof Unlatched Indicator, the Trunk Open Indicator and the Rear Window Indicator.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Indicators

The left or right turn signal light blinks when you signal a lane change or turn. If the light does not blink or blinks rapidly, it usually means one of the turn signal bulbs is burned out (see page 131). Replace the bulb as soon as possible, since other drivers cannot see that you are signalling.

When you turn on the Hazard Warning switch, both turn signal lights blink. All turn signals on the outside of the car should flash.

High Beam Indicator

This light comes on with the high beam headlights. See page 35 for information on the headlight controls.

On Canadian models, this indicator comes on with reduced brightness when the Daytime Running Lights (DRL) are on (see page 35).

Cruise Control Indicator

CRUISE CONTROL Only on cars equipped with Cruise Control System This lights when you set the cruise control. See page 40 for informa- tion on operating the cruise control.

Indicator Lights

Roof Unlatched Indicator: This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II) if the roof panel is not fastened securely. Check both release levers to make sure they are locked. See page 52.

Trunk Open Indicator: This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II) if the trunk is not closed completely. See page 45.

Rear Window Indicator: This indicator lights with the ignition ON (II) when the rear window is opened.

Instruments and Controls

Shift Lever Position Indicator (Automatic Transmission only)

This indicator shows which shift position the shift lever is in.

Indicator Lights

Instruments and Controls

Gauges

TACHOMETER

SPEEDOMETER

ODOMETER

TRIP METER

TRIP METER RESET BUTTON

Speedometer U.S. Models This shows your speed in miles per hour. The smaller inner numbers are the speed in kilometers per hour.

Tachometer The tachometer shows the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). To protect the engine from damage, never drive with the tachometer needle in the red zone.

Canadian Models This shows your speed in kilo- meters per hour (km/h). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in miles per hour (mph).

Instruments and Controls

Odometer The odometer shows the total dis- tance your car has been driven. It measures miles in U.S. models and kilometers in Canadian models. It is illegal under federal law (in the U.S.) and provincial regulations (in Canada) to alter the odometer with the intent to change the number of miles or kilometers indicated.

Trip Meter This meter shows the number of miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada) driven since you last reset it. To reset it, push the trip meter reset button.

FUEL GAUGE

TEMPERATURE GAUGE

Fuel Gauge This shows how much fuel you have. It is most accurate when the car is on level ground. It may show slightly more or less than the actual amount when you are driving on curvy or hilly roads.

The gauge stays at the same fuel level reading after you turn off the ignition. When you add fuel, the gauge slowly changes to the new reading after you turn the ignition back ON (II).

Gauges

Temperature Gauge This shows the temperature of the engine's coolant. During normal operation, the pointer should rise from the bottom white mark to about the middle of the gauge. In severe driving conditions, such as very hot weather or a long period of uphill driving, the pointer may rise to the upper white mark. If it reaches the red (Hot) mark, pull safely to the side of the road. Turn to page 156 for instructions and precautions on checking the engine's cooling system.

Instruments and Controls

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

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

The rear window defogger and hazard warning light switches are on the right edge of the dash above the instrument panel. On the US Si model There is cruise control switch on the left edge.

The instrument panel brightness control is on the instrument panel between the tachometer and the safety indicator.

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

Instruments and Controls

AUXILIARY LIGHT

CRUISE CONTROL

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS

HEADLIGHTS/ TURN SIGNALS

TILT ADJUSTMENT WINDSHIELD

WIPERS/WASHERS

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Headlights

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

To change between low beams and high beams, pull back on the turn signal lever until you hear a click, then let go. The blue high beam indicator will light (see page 30).

To flash the high beams, pull back and hold the turn signal lever. Release the lever and the high beams will go off.

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

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

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

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instrument Panel Brightness

Turn Signals

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

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS KNOB

TURN SIGNAL LEVER

The knob on the instrument panel controls the brightness of the instrument panel lights. Turn the knob to adjust the brightness.

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

Instruments and Controls

Windshield Wipers

Windshield Washers

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

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

INT — intermittent LO — low speed HI — high speed

In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. In low speed and high speed, the wipers run continuously.

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

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

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

Instruments and Controls

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Auxiliary Lights

Hazard Warning

Rear Window Defogger

Push the switch to operate the auxiliary lights. The auxiliary lights will light only when the headlights are on at low beam. The indicator will come on when the auxiliary lights are on.

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

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

Instruments and Controls

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

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

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

Steering Wheel Adjustment You can adjust the steering wheel height to suit your preference. Do this before you begin driving.

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

Adjust the steering wheel only when the car is stopped.

1. Adjust the seat so you are a

comfortable distance from the pedals.

2. The lever to tilt the steering wheel is under the steering column to the left. Push this lever all the way down.

3. Move the steering wheel up or

down to the desired position. Position the wheel so you can see all the instrument panel gauges and warning lights. Push the lever up to lock the steering wheel in that position.

4. Make sure you have securely locked the steering wheel in place by trying to move it up and down.

Instruments and Controls

Steering Wheel Controls

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

Improper use of the cruise con- trol can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control only when traveling on open high- ways in good weather.

Instruments and Controls

NOTICE

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

Using the Cruise Control

CRUISE CONTROL MASTER SWITCH

1. Push in the Cruise Control

Master Switch. The indicator in the switch will light.

2. Accelerate to the desired

cruising speed above 25 mph (40
km/h).

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

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

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

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

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

Steering Wheel Controls

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.

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.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

RESUME/ accel SET/decel

3. Press and hold the SET/decel button on the steering wheel until the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel comes on. This shows the system is now activated.

The set speed may vary slightly, particularly on hills.

TROL light comes on. The car will accelerate to the same cruising speed as before.

Horn

HORN BUTTONS

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

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

Press either of the buttons on the steering wheel spokes to sound the horn.

Steering Wheel Controls

Cancelling the Cruise Control Any of these actions cause the cruise control to cancel.

Tap the brake or, clutch pedal. Press the SET/decel and RE- SUME/accel buttons at the same time. Press the Cruise Control Master Switch.

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

If you use the brake or clutch pedal to cancel cruise control, the system retains the previously-set cruising speed. To return to that speed, ac- celerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h) and press the RESUME/accel button until the CRUISE CON-

Instruments and Controls

Keys

The keys have a code number stamped on one side. You will need this number if you have to get a lost key replaced. Record this number and keep it in a safe place.

Ignition Switch

Keys and Locks

Your car comes with two identical keys. They fit all the locks on your car:

Ignition Doors Trunk Fuel filler door release handle Rear locking compartment

The ignition switch is on the right side of the steering column. It has four positions: LOCK (0), ACCES- SORY (I), ON(II), and START (III).

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks

LOCK (0) — You can insert or remove the key only in this position. When you turn the key from LOCK to ACCESSORY, you may have to turn the steering wheel to release the anti-theft lock. To switch from ACCESSORY to LOCK, you must push the key in slightly as you turn it. If your car has an automatic transmission, it must also be in Park. The anti-theft lock will lock the steering column when you remove the key.

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

Remove the key from the igni- tion switch only when parked.

Instruments and Controls

ACCESSORY (I) — In this position, you can operate the audio system and cigarette lighter.

ON (II) — This is the normal key position when driving. All features and accessories on the car are usable. Several of the lights on the instrument panel come on as a test when you turn the ignition switch from ACCESSORY to ON (see page 27).

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

You will hear a reminder beeper if you open either front door with the key in the LOCK or ACCESSORY position. Remove the key to turn it off.

Door Locks

LOCK TAB

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

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

Trunk

Keys and Locks

ROOF HOLDER

KEY

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

Open the trunk by putting the key in the lock and turning it clockwise.

Keep the trunk closed at all times while driving to avoid damaging the trunk and getting exhaust gas in the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 22.

You cannot put any luggage in the trunk without lifting up the roof holder when the roof is stored in the trunk. Make sure to lock the roof holder before closing the trunk lid.

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks, Seat Adjustments

Rear Locking Compartment

Seat Adjustments

To open either rear locking compartment, put the key in the lock, turn it counterclockwise and lift the lid up. Push the lid to close. Turn the key clockwise to lock the box.

Adjust the seat before you start driving. To adjust the seat forward and backward, pull up on the lever under the seat cushion's front edge. Move the seat to the desired position and release the lever. Try to move the seat to make sure it is locked in position.

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

Instruments and Controls

Seat Adjustments, Power Windows

Reclining the seat-back can decrease the protection you get from your seat belt in a crash.

You can slide under the seat belt and be seriously injured.

Adjust the seat-back to an upright position and sit well back in the seat.

Power Windows Your car's windows are electri- cally-powered. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) to raise or lower any window.

Each door has a switch that controls its window. The rear window switch is located in the master control panel on the driver's armrest. To open the window, push the switch down and hold it. Release the switch when you want the window to stop. Close the window by pushing the switch up and holding it.

MAIN SWITCH

DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH To open the passenger's window or rear window from the master control panel, push down on the appropriate switch and hold it down until the window reaches the desired position. To close the window, push up on the window switch. Release the switch when the window gets to the position you want.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

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

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

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

Power Windows

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

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

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

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

Instruments and Controls

Your Honda's roof panel has a single release handle on each side, making it easy to remove and install. When not in use, the roof can be stored in a special holder in the trunk.

Always clean and dry the roof panel before you remove it so dirt and water do not fall in the interior and trunk.

Make sure any items you store in the trunk will not tumble around and damage the roof panel.

One person should be able to remove and install the roof panel. Although the panel is not very heavy, you may find it awkward to handle because of its size. If so, get someone to assist you so you do not damage the panel.

Removable Roof Panel

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Removable Roof Panel

Removing and Storing

ROOF LOCKS 1. Open both windows.

2. Turn off the engine and set the

parking brake.

3. Open the trunk. Push on the roof holder to make sure it is locked in place. Unlock the roof locks by pivoting them forward.

Instruments and Controls

Front

LOCK TAB

RELEASE LEVER

4. Release each side of the roof by

pushing the lock tab sideways and pulling down the release lever. Carefully, lift the roof straight up.

5. Place the roof in the roof holder

with the front facing forward.

Removable Roof Panel

Installing 1. Open both windows.

2. Turn off the engine and set the

parking brake.

3. Open the trunk.

LOCK LEVER 6. Lock the roof in the holder by

pivoting the lock levers toward the back of the car.

TAB

4. Release the roof from the holder by pushing the tabs and pivoting the lock levers forward.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Removable Roof Panel

5. Lift the roof out of the holder.

Make sure the release levers are in the unlocked (down) position.

6. Set the roof in place on the car. Make sure all four corners are sitting flush with the car body.

7. Secure the roof by turning each

release lever until the lock tab clicks forward. Pull on the levers to make sure they are locked.

Instruments and Controls

Roof Holder

Removable Roof Panel

Roof Unlatched Indicator

ROOF UNLATCHED INDICATOR

To reach items in the trunk when the roof is stored, pull the roof holder lock lever and lift the holder.

To secure the roof holder, push down on it until it locks. Make sure it is locked so it will not rattle or damage the trunk lid.

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II) if the roof panel is not fastened securely. Check both release levers to make sure they are locked.

Instruments and Controls

Mirrors

Mirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH

TAB

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

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

Available only on Si model Adjust the outside mirrors with the adjustment switch on the driver's door:

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

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

2. Move the selector switch to L

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

3. Push the appropriate edge of the

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

4. When you finish, move the

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

Instruments and Controls

Mirrors, Parking Brake

Parking Brake

NOTICE

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

The outside mirror on the passen- ger's side has curved glass. Objects look farther away than they are. Use this mirror to get a "wide view". Don't use it to judge the dis- tance of things behind you.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up slightly, push the button, and lower the lever. The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released (see page 28).

Instruments and Controls

Glove Box, Digital Clock

Glove Box

Digital Clock

GLOVE BOX

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

An open glove box can cause serious injury to your passen- ger in a crash, even if the pas- senger is wearing the seat belt.

Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

Instruments and Controls

The digital clock displays the time with the ignition switch ON (II). To set the clock:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II)

to display the time.

2. To set the hour, press and hold

the H button until the hour advances to the desired hour.

3. To set the minutes, press and

hold the M button until the numbers advance to the desired minute or minutes.

You can use the R button to quickly set the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed time is before the half hour, pressing the R button sets the clock back to the previous hour. If the displayed time is after the half hour, pressing the R button sets the clock forward to the beginning of the next hour.

For example:

1:06 would RESET backward to 1:00. 1:52 would RESET forward to 2:00.

Console Compartment, Cup Holder

Console Compartment

Cup Holder

LOCKING TAB

CONSOLE COMPART- MENT

To open the console compartment, pull up the edge of the driver's side. To close, lower the lid and push it down until it latches.

The cup holder is located inside the center console compartment lid. To use the cup holder, open the center console compartment. Pull the cup holder out while pushing the locking tab.

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

Be careful when you are using the cup holder. Spilled liquids can damage the upholstery, carpeting, and electrical components in the interior. If the liquid is very hot, it can scald you or your passenger.

Instruments and Controls

Sun Visor, Cigarette Lighter, Ashtrays

Sun Visor

Cigarette Lighter

Ashtrays

A S H T R A Y Open the ashtray by lifting the lid up. To remove it for emptying, open the lid then pull it straight out.

CIGARETTE L I G H T E R The cigarette lighter is next to the ashtray under the ashtray lid. The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for the cigarette lighter to work. To heat up the lighter, push it in. It will pop out when it is ready for use. Do not hold the lighter in while it is heating up, you could cause it to overheat.

Use of the sun visors will help cut off annoying glare while driving. To use the sun visor, pull it down.

Instruments and Controls

Ashtrays, Interior Light

NOTICE

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

Interior Light

DOOR ACTIVATED

OFF

ON

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

Instruments and Controls

Comfort and Convenience Features

The heating/ventilation system in your car, when combined with the optional air conditioning, provides a comfortable driving environment in all weather conditions.

Heating and Cooling......................62
What Each Control Does.......... 64
How to Use the System............. 65

Controlling Air Flow

Direction.............................. 65
Ventilation............................... 65
To Cool with A/C................... 66
To Dehumidify and Defog

with A/C............................... 67
To Heat.................................... 68
To Defrost............................... 68
To Turn Everything off....... 68

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

This system has full heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (optional) capabilities. You can adjust the system controls to mix these in various combinations. The air flows into the interior at three possible levels, which you can select.

A Genuine Honda air conditioning system is available from your dealer. It meets Honda's high quality standards and is designed to fit your car. If you purchased your car without air conditioning, it can be installed at any time. Please contact your dealer for more information.

CENTER VENT

CORNER VENT

The direction of air flow from the vents in the center of the dash- board and corner vents is adjusta- ble. Move the tab in the center of each vent up-and-down and side-to- side.

The corner vents can be closed by turning the vent approximately 45° to the right.

Comfort and Convenience Features

The heating and cooling system draws air through the exterior vents at the bottom of the wind- shield. Keep these vents clear of leaves and other debris.

Heating and Cooling

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

What Each Control Does

Fan Control Dial Turning this dial clockwise increases the fan speed, which increases air flow.

Temperature Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the temperature of air flowing from the system.

Mode Buttons These buttons control the direction of air flow. The indicator light shows which button is controlling air flow.

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

MODE

BUTTONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

FAN CONTROL TEMPERATURE DIAL LEVER

CONTROL

AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH

between recirculated and fresh air.

Recirculation Button This button controls the source of air going into the system. When the indicator in this button is lit, the system is recirculating the interior air (Recirculation mode). When the indicator is off, fresh air is brought in from outside the car (Fresh Air mode). Push the button to change

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

Ventilation Your car has a flow-through ventilation system. Air enters the car through vents in front of the windshield. It circulates through the interior then exits through the rear panel. This system provides fresh air even when the car is standing still. To bring in outside air, select the Fresh Air mode. Set the fan at a comfortable speed.

How to Use the System This section covers the best way to use the system for ventilation, cooling, dehumidifying, defrosting and heating. In most cases, the mode and air source selections are only recommendations. You may prefer different settings.

Use Recirculation mode to heat or cool the interior more quickly, or to keep out smoke and dust. Leaving the system in the recirculation mode with the A/C off can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to Fresh Air mode as soon as the interior reaches a comfortable temperature or the outside smoky, dusty condition clears.

The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to pro- vide hot and cold air. The heater uses engine coolant to warm the air. If the engine is cold, it will be sever- al minutes before you feel warm air circulating.

The air conditioning system does not depend on engine temperature. It can produce cold air almost immediately.

Controlling Air Flow Direction Air flows into the interior at three levels: Toward the floor through the dash vents toward the windshield and side windows You select the air flow level or combination of levels with the five mode buttons.

and

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

To Cool with A/C (Optional) To operate the air conditioning system, press the air conditioning switch. Set the fan to the desired speed. You can also use the

mode button to direct air out of the dash and heater vents.

To cool the interior down rapidly after the car has been sitting in the sun:

MODE BUTTONS

1. Start the engine. 2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the

switch.

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

Select the Recirculation mode and

When the interior reaches a com- fortable temperature, close the windows and set the system for cooling as described above.

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH

Air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge (see page 33) when using the A/C in heavy traffic or driving up long hills. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the air conditioning until the gauge reads normally.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

MODE BUTTONS

To Dehumidify and Defog with A/C Air conditioning removes moisture from the air as it operates. You can use it to defog the windows quickly in cool or damp weather. Used in combination with the heater, it also makes the interior warm and dry. This setting is best for all driving conditions whenever the outside temperature is above 32°F (0°C).

1. Set the fan to a medium speed. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select any desired mode button;

is usually best.

4. Adjust the temperature control lever so the mixture of heated and cooled air is at a comfortable temperature.

FAN CONTROL TEMPERATURE DIAL

CONTROL

LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

To Heat To warm the interior, press

and select the Fresh Air mode. Set the fan to the desired speed. Adjust the warmth of the air with the temperature control lever.

To warm the interior rapidly after the car has been sitting out in cold weather.

1. Start the engine. 2. Select the Recirculation mode

and

3. Slide the temperature control

lever to maximum heat.

4. Leave the fan OFF for the first

few minutes. When the tempera- ture gauge rises above the bot- tom white mark, set the fan to medium speed.

5. When the ulterior warms up, switch to fresh air mode and adjust the temperature control lever to a comfortable setting.

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

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

To Defrost To remove frost or ice from the windshield and side windows after the car has been sitting out in cold weather. 1. Start the engine. 2. Select the Recirculation mode

and

3. Set the fan and temperature