1994 Honda Civic DEL SOL Owners Manual

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.

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Instruments and Controls

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

Instruments and Controls

button until the CRUISE CON- 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.

Keys

KEY NUMBER PLATE

You should have received a key number plate with your set of keys. You will need this key number if you ever have to replace a lost key. Store this plate in a safe place. When replacing keys, use only Honda approved key blanks.

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

Keys and Locks

Ignition Switch

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).

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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 31).

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 the driver's 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 25.

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.

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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 be- fore closing them.

Power Windows

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

A U TO — 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

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

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH

TAB

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

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

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

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

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 32). If you try to drive the car without releasing the parking brake, the ABS cannot work properly.

Instruments and Controls

Glove Box, Digital Clock

Glove Box

Digital Clock

GLOVE BOX

Open the glove box by pushing the knob. 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. Press and hold the H button until the hour advances to the desired time.

3. Press and hold the M button until

the numbers advance to the desired time.

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, Beverage Holder

Console Compartment

Beverage 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 beverage holder is located inside the center console compart- ment lid. To use the beverage holder, open the center console compartment. Pull the beverage holder out while pushing the locking tab.

Use the beverage 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 beverage 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

CIGARETTE LIGHTER

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

Do not use the sun visor frame as a hand hold or to support yourself when you are getting into or out of the car with the roof removed. Too much force may cause it to come loose or break.

The cigarette lighter is next to the ashtray under the ashtray lid. The ignition switch must be in ACCES- SORY (I) or ON (II) for the ciga- rette 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.

ASHTRAY

Open the ashtray by lifting the lid up. To remove it for emptying, open the lid then pull it straight out of the holder. To reinstall the ashtray, put it back in the holder with the lid open and push it straight 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.

(Si and VTEC models) The standard audio system is very versatile. To get the most from this system, take the time to learn what the controls do. To discourage theft, a code number is required to enable the system.

(S model) Refer to the operating instructions that came with the optional audio system you selected.

Heating and Cooling...................... 66
What Each Control Does .......... 68
How to Use the System............. 69

Controlling Air Flow

Direction.............................. 69
Ventilation............................... 69
To Cool with A/C................... 70
To Heat.................................... 71
To Heat and Dehumidify

with Air Conditioning ....... 71
To Defog and Defrost............ 72
To Turn Everything off............ 72
Audio System.................................. 73
Operating the Radio .................. 74
Presetting.................................... 76
Adjusting the Sound.................. 77
Radio Frequencies..................... 78
Operating the Cassette

Player....................................... 79
Cassette Search Functions....... 80
Caring for Cassettes .................. 81
Operating the CD Player .......... 82
CD Error Indications................. 84
Caring for the Cassette Player.... 85
Theft Protection............................. 86

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.

If you purchased your car without air conditioning, it can be installed at any time. 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. 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 45c 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 DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

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, dehurnidifying, 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

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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 37) 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

To Heat To warm the interior:

1. Start the engine. 2. Select the Fresh Air mode and

Heating and Cooling

MODE BUTTONS

3. Switch the fan to the desired

speed.

4. Adjust the warmth of the air with the temperature control lever.

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

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select the Fresh Air mode and press any desired mode button. 4. Adjust the temperature control lever so the mixture of heated and cooled air feels comfortable.

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

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

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

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select the Fresh Air mode and

4. Adjust the temperature control

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

5. Turn on the rear window

defogger to help clear the rear window.

To remove exterior 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 Fresh Air mode and

3. Switch the fan and temperature

controls to maximum.

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

You should shut the system com- pletely 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 rapidly remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield (on very cold days), first select the Recircu- lation mode. Once the windshield is clear, select the Fresh Air mode to avoid fogging the windows.

These settings direct all the air flow to the defroster vents at the base of the windshield and the side window defroster vents. The air flow will get warmer and clear the windows faster as the engine warms up. You can close the corner vents by turning them 45° clockwise. This will send more warm air to the windshield de- froster vents. For safety, make sure you have a clear view through all the windows before driving away.

Comfort and Convenience Features

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio System For Si and VTEC models Your Honda audio system is easy to use, and will give clear AM/FM reception. The preset buttons allow you to select six stations on AM and twelve stations on FM.

The cassette system uses Dolby B®* noise reduction to give excellent sound reproduction. The system also senses when a metal or chromium-dioxide (CrO ) tape is being played and adjusts accord- ingly.

Audio System

ON/VOL KNOB

CASSETTE SLOT

AM BUTTON

TUNE/SEEK BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

FM BUTTON

The cassette player features auto- reverse for continuous play.

The Anti-theft feature disables the system if it is disconnected from the car's battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number.

* Dolby noise reduction manufac- tured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpo- ration. "DOLBY" and the double-D symbol

are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpo- ration.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in AC- CESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on by turning the ON/VOL knob clockwise. The radio comes on and displays the frequency of the station it was last tuned to.

Adjust the volume by turning the ON/VOL knob.

ON/VOL KNOB

AIM BUTTON

STEREO INDICATOR

FM BUTTON

Select the band you want to listen to by pressing the AM or FM button. You will see the selected band and the frequency in the display.

ST will be displayed next to the fre- quency if the station is broadcast- ing in FM stereo. The AM stereo feature is not available.

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

Audio System

The TUNE function lets you find a desired frequency. Use the TUNE/SEEK bar to change the frequency in small increments. Press the right side

to tune to a higher frequency,

to tune to a

and the left side lower frequency. Press and release to change the frequency to the next number.

Press the TUNE/SEEK bar and hold it to change to a frequency that is far away. The frequency display will begin to count rapidly. It will stop counting when you release the bar.

TUNE/SEEK BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

The SEEK function searches the band for stations with a strong sig- nal. Depending on which side you press on the TUNE/SEEK bar, the system searches up or down from the current frequency. Press the bar until you hear a beep, then release it. The system searches until it finds a station with a strong

signal, then stops.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Presetting The preset buttons allow you to store radio frequencies for later selection. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two on the FM band.

To store a frequency:

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

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK func-

tion to tune the radio to a desired station.

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

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a

total of six stations on AM and twelve on FM.

AM BUTTON

TUNE/SEEK BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

FM BUTTON

Once that station's frequency is stored, simply press and release the proper preset button to tune to it. If you want to change any preset button's selection, store another fre- quency as described. The frequen- cies you preset will be lost if your car's battery goes dead or is discon- nected.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Adjusting the Sound Use the Balance and Fader controls to adjust the sound "direction". The Balance control moves it left- to-right. The Fader control moves it front-to-back.

To use either control, push on the knob to get it to pop out. Adjust the front-to-back sound to your liking with the outside ring.

Adjust side-to-side sound balance with the knob. Push the knob back in when you are done.

Audio System

BASS CONTROL

TREBLE CONTROL

FADER CONTROL

BALANCE CONTROL

The illumination for the radio con- trols comes on with the instrument panel lights, even if the radio is off. You can use the Balance control to turn off the radio panel illumina- tion even with the radio on. Push the control knob so it pops out, then pull it out slightly further. Check this control if the control panel lights do not come on with the in- strument panel lights.

Use the Bass and Treble controls to adjust the tone quality to your liking. Push on the knob to get the controls to pop out. Adjust the bass level with the outer ring and the treble level with the knob. When finished, push the knobs back in so there is less chance of accidentally changing your settings.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Radio Frequencies Your Honda's radio can tune in all frequencies in both the AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequen- cies:

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

Radio stations on the AM band are assigned frequencies at least 10
kilohertz apart (530, 540,550). Those on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0.2 megahertz apart (87.9,88.1, 88.3).

AM BUTTON

FM BUTTON

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Operating the Cassette Player Turn the system ON. Insert the cassette into the slot with the tape opening to the right. Push the cassette in most of the way. The drive will pull it in the rest of the way and begin to play.

or will light to show you

The which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates the side you inserted facing upward is now playing. To play the other side of the tape, press the PROG button.

The system also has an Auto- reverse feature. It will automati- cally reverse direction when it reaches the end of the cassette.

Audio System

EJECT BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

PROG BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

If the tape was recorded with Dolby " B" noise reduction, turn it on by pressing the

button.

To remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button. The system automatically ejects the cassette whenever you turn off the system or the ignition switch.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Cassette Search Functions Once a cassette is playing, you can use the FF, REW or TMS function to look for desired songs or pas- sages.

Press the REW button to rewind the cassette. Press the FF button to fast forward. The cassette stops playing and the light in the button comes on. To stop rewind or fast forward, press the PLAY button. If the system reaches the end of the cassette while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.

REW BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

FF BUTTON

TMS BUTTON

The TMS function lets you skip to the beginning of a song or other passage.

just played. When the system senses a silent period on the tape, it goes back to PLAY mode.

Press the TMS button and then the FF button or REW button. The tape will automatically advance to the beginning of the next song, or return to the beginning of the song

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

The TMS function uses silent periods on the tape to find the end of a selection. This feature may not work satisfactorily on tapes that have almost no gap between songs, a high noise level between songs, or silent periods in the middle of songs.

TMS BUTTON

Caring for Cassettes Damaged cassettes can jam inside the drive or cause other problems. See page 85 for information on cassette care and protection.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Operating the CD Player (Optional) A Compact Disc changer is available for your car. It holds up to six discs, providing several hours of continuous programming. You operate the CD changer with the same controls used for the radio and cassette player.

Load the desired CD's in the magazine and load the magazine in the changer according to the instructions that came with the unit.

To operate the CD changer, the ignition key must be in ACCESSO- RY (I) or ON (II). If you are listening to a cassette tape, eject it before playing a CD.

ON/VOL KNOB

CD BUTTON

Press the CD button until "CD" appears on the display. Once in the CD mode, the system will start to play the first track of the first disc in the magazine.

When that disc ends, the next disc in the magazine is loaded and played.

After disc 6 has completed, the system will return to disc 1. To make your own disc selection, push one of the six preset buttons. Your selection will appear in the display and start playing.

Comfort and Convenience Features

You can use the TUNE/SEEK bar while a disc is playing to select passages and change tracks. To move rapidly forward within a track, press and hold the side of the TUNE/SEEK bar. Press and hold the side to move rapidly backward within a track. Keep pressing the bar until you think the track has advanced or returned to the desired position. The disc will start playing when you release the bar.

side and release

If you press the it, the system will skip forward to the beginning of the next track on that CD. It will skip backward to the begin- ning of the current track if you press the side and release it.

If you change modes to radio or tape while a CD is playing, then change back to CD mode, the same disc and track will play.

Audio System

ON/VOL KNOB

CD BUTTON

TUNE/SEEK BAR

If you turn off the system while a CD is playing, either with the ON/VOL knob or by turning off the ignition, the system will begin at the same disc and track when you turn it back on.

If you try to select an empty slot in the magazine, the system will select and play the first track of the next disc in the magazine.

To return to the radio function, press the AM/FM button.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

CD Error Indications If you see an error indication on the display, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error indication, take the car to your Honda dealer.

Comfort and Convenience Features

CLEAN INDICATOR

RESET BUTTON

The cassette drive picks up dirt and oxides whenever you play a tape. This builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the cassette drive after every 30
hours of use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit available for this purpose.

Caring for the Cassette Player

After 30 hours of tape use, you will see CLEAN flashing for 5 seconds in the display when you insert a tape into the tape slot. If you are already regularly cleaning the tape drive at least every 30 hours, reset the indicator by pressing the Reset button while the system is in the tape operation mode. Hold the button until the CLEAN indicator goes out.

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

The cassette player automatically ejects cassettes that do not play normally. If it ejects a cassette before it begins to play, it is probably defective and should not be inserted again. You may have a cassette suddenly stop playing, reverse directions once or twice and then eject. This is normally an

indication the tape is wound unevenly. It should play normally after being manually rewound.

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

Look at a cassette before you insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning one of the hubs with a pencil or your finger.

If the label is peeling off, do not put it in the player. It may cause the cassette to jam in the drive mecha- nism when you try to eject it. Do not leave cassettes sitting where they are exposed to high heat or humidity, such as on top of the dashboard or in the player. If a cassette is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before putting it in the player.

Comfort and Convenience Features

You will have to store your favorite stations in the Preset buttons after the system begins working. Your original settings were lost when power was disconnected.

Theft Protection

On Si and VTEC models Your car's audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, the user must enter a specific five-digit code in the Preset buttons. Because there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received two copies of a card that lists your audio system's code number and serial number. It is best to store one of these cards in a safe place at home, and to keep the other in your wallet or purse. In addition, you should write the audio system's serial number in this Owner's Manual. If you should happen to lose both cards, you must obtain the code number from your Honda dealer. To do this, you will need the

system's serial number.

If your car's battery is discon- nected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. If this happens, you will see "Code" in the frequency display the next time you turn on the system. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five- digit code. If it is entered correctly, the radio will start playing.

If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over or try to correct your mistake. Complete the five-digit sequence, then enter the correct code. You have three tries to enter the correct code. If you are unsuccessful in three attempts, you must then leave the system on for one hour before trying again.

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

Before Driving

Break-in Period.............................. 88
Gasoline............................................ 88
Oxygenated Fuels...................... 88
Driving in Foreign Countries... 89
Service Station Procedures.......... 90
Filling the Fuel Tank................ 90
Opening the Hood....................... 91
Fuel Economy................................. 94
Vehicle Condition....................... 94
Driving Habits............................ 94
Accessories...................................... 95
Loading Cargo................................ 96

Before Driving

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 1,000 km (600
miles). During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

If you need to add oil, use the engine oil recommended in this owner's manual.

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

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

Gasoline Your Honda is designed to operate most effectively on unleaded gasoline.

(S and Si models) Use an 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 con- taining detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits.

Using gasoline containing lead will damage your car's emission controls. This contributes to air pollution and can void certain parts of your warranty.

Before Driving

(VTEC model) Use a premium unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 91
or higher. If you are unable to find premium unleaded, you may substitute an unleaded regular gasoline. The engine will compensate for the lower octane, but you may notice a slight decrease in power as a result.

Oxygenated Fuels Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some areas of the United States and Canada use oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions.

If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating require- ment.

the fuel system. Gasoline con- taining more than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or performance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber and plastic parts of your fuel system.

If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.

Fuel system damage or perfor- mance problems resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel con- taining more than the percentages of oxygenates given above are not covered under warranty.

Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel's contents. Some states/provinces require this information to be posted on the pump.

The following are the EPA- approved percentages of oxygen- ates: ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name "Gasohol."

MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.

METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 5% methanol by volume as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect

Gasoline

Driving in Foreign Countries Using any type of leaded gasoline in your Honda will affect perform- ance and damage its emission con- trols. Unleaded gasoline may not be available in other countries. If you are planning to take your car out- side the U.S. or Canada, write to Honda at the address shown for information about any modifica- tions your car may need. Be sure to include the year and model of your car.

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

Canadian Owners: Honda Canada Inc. 715 Milner Ave. Scarborough, Ontario M1B 2K8

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Filling the Fuel Tank

Pull

1. The fuel fill 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 pulling

on the handle to the left of the driver's seat.

Handling gasoline improperly can cause it to ignite or ex- plode, causing you to be seri- ously or fatally injured.

Always put out cigarettes and other smoking materials, and keep all sparks and open flames away when you are around gasoline.

3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.

You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes.

4. Stop filling the tank after the

fuel pump automatically clicks off. Do not try to "top off" the tank, leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.

5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on,

tighten it until it clicks.

6. Push the fuel fill door until it

latches.

Before Driving

FUEL FILL CAP

Service Station Procedures

Opening the Hood

LATCH

The fuel fill opener handle is lockable with the key. Turn the key counterclockwise to lock and clockwise to unlock.

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle, located under the left lower corner of the dash- board. 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 left of center. Slide your hand to the right until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle to the right until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.

CONTINUED

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Oil Check

SUPPORT ROD 3. Pull the support rod out of its clip

and insert the end into the hole on the driver's 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 above the fender, then let it drop.

DIPSTICK

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

1. Remove the dipstick (orange

handle).

2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean

cloth or paper towel.

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Engine Coolant Check

RESERVE TANK

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

M AX

MIN

3. Insert it all the way back in its

tube.

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

If it is near or below the lower mark, see page 122 for information on the proper oil and how to add it.

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding Engine Coolant on page 126 for information on adding the proper coolant.

Refer to Periodic Checks on page 119 for information on check- ing other items in your Honda.

Before Driving

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 accelerate 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 use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to 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 accord- ing to the maintenance schedule. This will keep it in top operating condition.

An important part of that mainte- nance is the Periodic Checks (see page 119 ). 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.

Before Driving

Your Honda dealer has many acces- sories available to personalize your car. Some of these are audio sys- tems, alloy wheels, air conditioning, and color-coordinated carpet floor mats. All Genuine Honda Acces- sories have been approved by our engineers for installation and use on your car, and are covered by warranty.

Some non-Honda accessories you can buy in the "aftermarket" are designed for universal applications. Although they may fit your Honda, they may not be within factory specifications. For example, after- market wheels may not meet Honda's specifications for width and offset. They could cause sus- pension problems which would not be covered by your warranty. Im- properly-designed accessories can adversely affect your car's han- dling and stability.

Your car has several computer- controlled systems, including the SRS system, the engine's fuel injection, and the Anti-lock brake system. Strong electronic inter- ference can affect their operation.

Accessories

Electronic communications equip- ment, such as cellular telephones and two-way radios are regulated by the FCC (DOC in Canada) and should not interfere with your car's systems. Improper installation, or using electrical equipment not in- tended for mobile use may inter- fere with your car's operation. If you want to install a cellular tele- phone, other mobile communi- cations equipment or even add-on stereo amplifiers, please discuss it first with your Honda dealer.

In many cases, improper instal- lation is the real cause of problems with aftermarket accessories. Have these accessories installed by quali- fied technicians who are familiar with your Honda. If possible, have your Honda dealer inspect the final installation.

Before Driving

If you must carry large objects that prevent you from closing the trunk lid, be aware that exhaust gas can enter the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 25.

Loading Cargo

The maximum load you can carry in your Honda is 185 kg (400 Ibs). It includes the total weight of all passengers and their belongings, and any accessories. This 185 kg (400 Ibs) figure is shown as the Vehicle Capacity Weight on the tire information label attached to the inside of the glove box.

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Figure the total "occupant weight" you will be transporting. To do this, multiply yourself and your passenger by 70 kg (150 Ibs). Subtract this number from the Vehicle Capacity Weight (185 kg/ 400 Ibs).

This final number is the total weight of cargo you can load in or on the car. With two occupants (a driver and a passenger), the maximum recommended weight for cargo is 45 kg (100 Ibs).

Where you store this cargo, and how well you secure it, are just as important as how much it weighs. Make sure you load cargo so it will not shift while driving. When storing items in the trunk, place them as far forward as possible.

Never place items on top of the rear locking compartments behind the seats. Those items can fly forward and injure you or your passenger if you brake hard or are involved in a collision.

Before Driving

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the manual and automatic transmis- sions. It also includes important information on your car's braking system.

Driving

Preparing to Drive ......................... 98
Starting the Engine........................ 99

5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 99

Automatic

Transmission.......................... 99

Starting in Cold Weather

at High Altitude................... 100
5-speed Manual Transmission... 101
Recommended Shift Points.... 102
Maximum Speeds..................... 102
Automatic Transmission............ 103
Shift Lever Positions............... 103
Maximum Speeds..................... 106
Shift Lock Release................... 106
The Braking System.................... 107
Brake Wear Indicators............ 108
Brake System Design.............. 108
Anti-lock Brakes...................... 109
Driving in Bad Weather.............. 110
Towing a Trailer .......................... 112

Driving

10.Turn the ignition ON (II). Check the indicator lights in the instru- ment panel.

11.Start the engine (see page 99).

12.Check the gauges and indicator

lights in the instrument panel (see page 31).

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, and the roof panel is secured.

5. Check the adjustment of the seat

(see page 50).

6. Check the adjustment of the

inside and outside mirrors (see page 58).

7. Check the adjustment of the steering wheel (see page 43).

8. Make sure the doors are securely

closed and locked.

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

9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that your passenger has fastened his seat belt (see page 7).

4. Check that any items you may be

carrying with you inside are stored properly or fastened down securely.

Driving

5-speed Manual Transmission 1. Apply the parking brake.

2. In cold weather, turn off all

electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

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

4. 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. 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.

6. 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 the Engine

Automatic Transmission 1. Apply the parking brake.

2. In cold weather, turn off all

electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

3. Make sure the shift lever is in

Park. Press on the brake pedal.

4. 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.

CONTINUED

Driving

Starting the Engine

5. 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.

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

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