1996 Honda Civic DEL SOL Owners Manual

1996 Del Sol Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.

Contents

Owner's Identification Form

Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety................................................................................................................. ii Driver and Passenger Safety .............................................................................................................. 3 Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls................................................................................................................. 29 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. 67 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 89 What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 99 The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance..................................................................................................................................... 115 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 167 Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected...................................................................................................... 173 This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 195 ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................ 207 A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 213 How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...................................................................................................................................................... I Gas Station Information A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

Introduction

Congratulations ! Your selection of a 1996 Honda del Sol was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.

One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is to read this manual. In it, you will learn about your vehicle's many safety features, and how to operate its driving controls and convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner's manual in your vehicle so you can refer to it at any time.

Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty booklet thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights and responsibilities.

Maintaining your vehicle according to the schedules given in this manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment.When your vehicle needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's staff is specially-trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns.

Safety Messages

Your safety and the safety of others is very important. We have provided many important safety messages in this manual and on the vehicle. Please read these messages carefully.

You will also see another important symbol:

A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol one of three words, DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. These mean:

and

NOTICE

Your Honda or other property can be damaged if you don't follow instruc- tions.

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

The purpose of these messages is to help prevent damage to your vehicle, other property, or the environment.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions.

Each safety message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen and what you can do to avoid or reduce injury.

This section gives you important information about occupant protec- tion. It shows how to use seat belts properly. It explains the Supple- mental Restraint System. And it gives useful information about how to protect infants and children in your car.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Your Occupant Protection System.. 4
The Seat Belt System

and How It Works...................... 5
Why Wear Seat Belts.................... 5
Important Safety Reminders........ 5
Seat Belt System Components..... 6
Lap/Shoulder Belt......................... 6
Wearing Seat Belts Properly........ 7
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7
Advice for Pregnant Women........ 9
Seat Belt Maintenance.................. 9
Supplemental Restraint System..... 10
SRS Components......................... 10
What Happens In a Crash........... 10
Important Facts About

Airbags...................................... 11

How the Driver's Airbag

How the Passenger's Airbag

Works........................................ 13

How the SRS Indicator Light

Works........................................ 14
System Service............................. 14
System Service Precautions....... 15
Additional Safety Information........ 16
Seat-back Position........................ 16

Door Locks................................... 16
Storing Cargo Safely................... 17
Driving with Pets......................... 17
Child Safety...................................... 18
Where Should Children Sit?....... 18
Important Safety Reminders...... 19
General Guidelines for Restraining Children Under 18 kg (40 Ibs)............... 19

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

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

Restraining a Child Who Weighs

Over 18 kg (40 Ibs).................. 21

with a Lap/Shoulder Belt....... 22

Using Child Restraints

with Tethers............................. 23
Storing a Child Seat..................... 24
Alcohol and Drugs........................... 25
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 26
Safety Labels.................................... 27

Works........................................ 12

Securing a Child Seat

Driver and Passenger Safety

Your Occupant Protection System

Your Honda is equipped with seat belts and other features that work together to protect you and your passenger during a crash.

Seat belts are the most important part of your occupant protection system. When worn properly, seat belts can reduce the chance of serious injury or death in a crash.

For added protection during a severe frontal collision, your del Sol has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with a driver's airbag and a passenger's airbag.

Two indicator lights are also part of your safety system. One reminds you to make sure you and your passenger wear your seat belts. The other alerts you to a possible problem with your supplemental restraint system (see page 14 ).

Driver and Passenger Safety

The seats, head restraints, and door locks also play a role in occupant safety. For example, reclining the seat-back can decrease the effec- tiveness of your seat belt. Head restraints can help protect your neck and head, especially during rear-end impacts. Door locks help keep your doors from being accidentally opened during a crash.

To get the maximum protection from your occupant protection system, check the following before you drive away:

Everyone in the car is wearing a seat belt properly (see page 7 ). A child is properly secured in a child safety seat (see page 18). Both doors are closed and locked (see page 16). Seat-backs are upright (see page 16). There are no loose items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash or sudden stop (see page 17).

By following these guidelines, you can reduce injuries to yourself and your passenger in many crash situations. Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes.

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Why Wear Seat Belts Wearing seat belts, and wearing them properly, is fundamental to your safety and the safety of your passenger.

During a crash or emergency stop, seat belts can help keep you from being thrown against the inside of the car, against your passenger, or out of the car.

Of course, seat belts cannot com- pletely protect you in every crash. But, in most cases, seat belts reduce your chance of serious injury. They can even save your life. That is why many states and all Canadian pro- vinces require you to wear seat belts.

Not wearing a seat belt increases the chance of being killed or seriously hurt in a crash.

Be sure you and your passenger always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

Important Safety Reminders Seat belts are designed for adults and larger children. Children must be properly restrained in child safety seats (see page 18 ).

A pregnant woman needs to wear a seat belt to protect herself and her unborn child (see page 9 ).

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

Do not place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This could increase the chance of serious injuries in a crash.

Do not put shoulder belt pads or other accessories on seat belts. They can reduce the effectiveness of the belts and increase the chance of injury.

Driver and Passenger Safety

The lap/shoulder belt retractor in the passenger seating position has an additional locking mechanism that is intended to secure a child seat (see page 22 ). If the shoulder part of the belt is pulled all the way out, this mechanism will engage. The belt will retract, but it will not allow the passenger to move freely. If the belt feels too tight, unlatch it, let it retract fully, then pull it out as far as needed.

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Seat Belt System Components Your Honda has lap/shoulder seat belts for the driver and the passen- ger.

Your seat belt system also includes a light on the instrument panel to remind you to fasten your seat belt, and to make sure your passenger fastens his. This light comes on when you turn on the ignition if you have not fastened your seat belt. A beeper also sounds for several seconds (see page 32 ).

The following pages cover more about the seat belt components and how they work.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Lap/Shoulder Belt

LATCH PLATE

SHOULDER PORTION

LAP PORTION

BUCKLE

This style of seat belt has a single belt that goes over your shoulder, across your chest, and across your hips. Each lap/shoulder belt has an emergency locking retractor. In normal driving, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat while it keeps some tension on the belt. During a collision or sudden stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body.

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt Before putting on the seat belt, move the driver's seat as far back as is practical while still allowing you to maintain full control of the vehicle. Make sure the seat-back is upright (see page 16). The passenger should move the seat as far back as possible.

Wearing Seat Belts Properly You can increase the effectiveness of your seat belts if you take a little time to read the following pages and make sure you know how to wear seat belts properly.

Not wearing seat belts properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash.

Be sure you and your passenger always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

1. Pull the latch plate across your

body and insert it into the buckle. Tug on the belt to make sure the latch is securely locked.

CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

2. Check that the belt is not twisted.

3. Position the lap portion of the belt

as low as possible across your hips, not across your stomach. This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash.

4. Pull up on the shoulder part of the

belt to remove any slack. Make sure the belt goes over your collarbone and across your chest.

To unlatch the seat belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. Guide the belt across your body to the door pillar.

After you exit the vehicle, make sure the seat belt is out of the way and will not get closed in the door.

Driver and Passenger Safety

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Advice for Pregnant Women

When using the seat belt, remember to keep the lap portion as low as possible (see page 7).

Seat Belt Maintenance For safety, you should check the condition of your seat belts regularly.

Each time you have a check-up, ask your doctor if it's okay for you to drive and how you should position a lap/shoulder seat belt.

Pull out each belt fully and look for frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check that the latches work smoothly and the lap/shoulder belts retract easily. Any belt not in good condition or not working properly should be replaced.

If a seat belt is worn during a crash, have your dealer replace the belt and inspect the anchors for damage.

For information on how to clean your seat belts, see page 170 .

Protecting the mother is the best way to protect her unborn child. Therefore, a pregnant woman should wear a properly-positioned seat belt whenever she drives or rides in a car.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Supplemental Restraint System

Your car is equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) to help protect the head and chest of the driver and passenger during a severe frontal collision.

This system does not replace your seat belts. It supplements, or adds to, the protection offered by seat belts and other occupant protection features.

Not wearing seat belts increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even if you have airbags.

Be sure you and your passenger always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

SRS Components Your supplemental restraint system includes:

One airbag in the steering wheel for the driver and another in the dashboard for the passenger.

Sensors that can detect a severe frontal collision.

A sophisticated electronic system that continually monitors the sensors, control unit, airbag activators, and all related wiring when the ignition is ON (II).

An indicator light on the instru- ment panel to alert you to a possi- ble problem with the system.

Emergency backup power in case your car's electrical system is disconnected in a crash.

What Happens In a Crash If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the sensors will detect rapid deceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate the airbags.

During a crash, your seat belts will help to restrain your lower body and torso. The airbags will provide a cushion to absorb crash energy and help keep the head and chest of the driver and passenger from striking the interior of the car.

After inflating, the airbags will immediately deflate. The entire process, from detection to deflation, takes a fraction of a second. This process occurs so quickly that you may not hear the loud noise created by the airbag inflators, or realize what has happened.

Driver and Passenger Safety

After the crash, you may see what looks like smoke. This is actually powder from the airbag's surface. People with respiratory problems may experience some temporary discomfort from the chemicals used by the airbag's activators.

Important Facts About Airbags Airbags inflate only when needed; in a severe frontal collision. A severe collision would be similar to a crash into a parked vehicle of similar size at 25 mph (40 km/h). Airbags will not inflate in a moderate frontal collision, or during a rear impact, side impact, or rollover — even if the impact is severe.

Frontal collision range

Supplemental Restraint System

Just from viewing the vehicle damage after a crash, it is very difficult to accurately determine if the airbags should or should not have inflated. In some cases where the airbag did not inflate, extensive visible damage indicated that the car absorbed much of the crash energy, and the airbags were not needed. In other cases, a severe jolt, such as an impact to the undercarriage, may not cause extensive body damage but cause the airbags to inflate.

Airbags inflate and deflate only once. They cannot protect you during any additional impacts that can occur during a crash sequence.

Injuries, including fatal injuries, can occur in a severe collision, even if seat belts are worn properly and the airbags inflate. No safety system can provide complete protection in a severe crash.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Supplemental Restraint System

How the Driver's Airbag Works

To do its job, the airbag inflates with considerable force. So, while it can reduce serious injuries and even save your life, the airbag might cause some facial abrasions or other injuries. To reduce the possibility of injury, you should always sit back as far from the steering wheel as is practical while still maintaining full vehicle control.

If you ever have a severe frontal collision, your airbag will instantly inflate to help protect your head and chest.

Driver and Passenger Safety

After the bag completely inflates, it immediately starts deflating so it won't interfere with your visibility, ability to steer, or ability to operate other controls. The total time for inflation and deflation takes a fraction of a second. You may not even be aware that the airbag has been fully inflated.

Supplemental Restraint System

How the Passenger's Airbag Works

The driver's airbag is stored in the center of the steering wheel. For your safety, do not attach any items to the steering wheel. They could interfere with the proper operation of the airbag. Or, if the airbag inflates, they could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone.

If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the passenger's airbag will inflate at the same time as the driver's airbag.

This airbag is quite large and inflates with considerable force. It can seriously hurt a passenger who is not in the proper position and wearing the seat belt properly. The passenger should move the seat as far back as practical and sit well back in the seat.

We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

When a toddler seat is used in the passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.

CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety

Supplemental Restraint System

The passenger's airbag is stored near the top of the dashboard, under a lid marked SRS. Do not place any objects on top of this lid. If the airbag inflates, those objects can be propelled inside the car and possibly hurt someone.

How the SRS Indicator Light Works

SRS The purpose of the SRS light on your instrument panel is to alert you of a potential problem with your supple- mental restraint system.

System Service Your supplemental restraint system is virtually maintenance-free. There are no parts you can safely service. You must have the system serviced by an authorized Honda dealer:

Have the system checked if:

The light does not come on when you turn the ignition ON (II).

The light stays on after the engine starts.

The light comes on or flashes while you are driving.

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 diagnosis and service.

If your airbags ever inflate, the airbags and control unit must be replaced. Do not try to remove or discard the airbags by yourself. This must be done by a Honda dealer.

If the SRS indicator light alerts you of a problem. Have the supplemental restraint system checked as soon as possible. Otherwise, your airbags might not inflate when you need them.

When the car is ten years old. Have the dealer inspect the system. The production date is on the driver's doorjamb for your convenience.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Supplemental Restraint System

Scrapping an entire car that has uninflated airbags can be dangerous. Get assistance from a Honda dealer if your car must be scrapped.

If you sell your car, please be sure to tell the new owner that the car has a supplemental restraint system. Alert them to the information and precau- tions in this part of the owner's manual.

System Service Precautions Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of the supplemental restraint system. Modifications could make the system ineffective.

Do not tamper with the system's components or wiring. This could cause the airbags to inflate inadver- tently, possibly injuring someone very seriously.

Tell anyone who works on your car that you have a supplemental restraint system. Failure to follow the procedures and precautions in the official Honda service manual could result in personal injury or damage to the system.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Safety Information

The seat belts and airbags are obvi- ously important parts of your occu- pant protection system.

In addition, you should know that sitting upright, locking the doors, and stowing things properly can also increase your safety and possibly even save your life.

Seat-back Position The seat-backs should be in an upright position for you and your passenger to get the most protection from the seat belts.

If you recline a seat-back, you reduce the protective capability of your seat belt. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk that you will slide under the belt in a severe crash and be very seriously injured.

For information on how to adjust the seat-back, see page 50 .

Door Locks It is not safe to leave your car doors unlocked. A passenger, especially a child, could open a door and accidentally fall out. Also, there is a greater chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash when the doors are not locked.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Safety Information

Storing Cargo Safely Before you drive, make sure you first securely store or tie down any items that could be thrown around the car and hurt someone, or 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.

For information on loading cargo, see page 98 .

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 their safety that pets should be properly restrained in your car.

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.

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 protec- tion society.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Child 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.

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.

Where Should Children Sit? We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

We recommend that you secure your child's toddler seat in the passenger's seat with the car's lap/shoulder belt. To secure the seat with the lap/ shoulder belt, be sure to follow the instructions on page 22. The vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.

We also recommend that a child who has outgrown a toddler seat be protected by properly wearing the lap/shoulder belt (see page 7 ). You should move the seat as far back as practical and have the child sit well back in the seat. If the child is not large enough to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly, you should use a booster seat.

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.

For their safety, do not leave children alone in your car without adult supervision.

General Guidelines for Restraining Children Under 18 kg (40 Ibs) 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 instructions 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.

Child Safety

To properly route a seat belt through a child seat, follow the seat maker's instructions. To secure the seat with the lap/shoulder belt, follow the instructions on page 22.

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

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

We recommend that you secure your child's toddler seat in the passenger's seat with the car's lap/shoulder belt. Make sure the toddler seat is held securely by the locking mechanism of the lap/shoulder belt (see page 22 ). Move the passenger's seat, as far back as possible before installing the child seat. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained.

Toddler seats are designed for children who weigh between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs).

Child Safety

Restraining an Infant Who Weighs Less Than 9 kg (20 Ibs) We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant.

Until a child is large enough to be safely secured in a toddler seat, we urge you to use a different car whenever you need to drive with an infant.

Driver and Passenger 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.

You should move the vehicle seat as far back as practical and have the child sit well back in the seat.

Child Safety

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.

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.

Child Safety

Securing a Child Seat with a Lap/ Shoulder Belt The lap/shoulder belt retractor in the passenger seating position has a built-in locking mechanism intended to secure a child seat. When you are placing a child seat in the passenger's seat, do the following:

3. Slowly pull the shoulder portion of the belt out of the retractor until it stops.

4. Allow the belt to slowly feed back into the retractor. You should hear a clicking noise that indicates the locking mechanism has engaged.

1. Place the child restraint in the

passenger's seat. Route the lap/ shoulder belt through the seat according to the seat manufac- turer's instructions.

2. Insert the latch plate into the buckle. Make sure it is fully latched.

5. After the belt has retracted fully, pull up on the shoulder portion to remove any slack.

6. Push and pull on the child seat to

verify that it is held firmly in place. If not, unlatch the seat belt, allow it to retract fully, and repeat these steps.

To unlatch the seat belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. Guide the belt across to the door pillar. If the belt doesn't retract easily, pull it out and check for twists or kinks.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Using Child Restraints with Tethers 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.

Child Safety

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:

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

CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety

1. Adjust the passenger's seat fully forward to make room behind the seat-back.

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 kgf.m, 16lbf.ft)

Child Safety

Canadian Cars

TOOTHED WASHER

Storing a Child Seat When you are not using a 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 install- ing, make sure the toothed washer is on the bottom of the bolt.

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 transportation 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, remember that your interference will keep them from sharing the road with you.

Driver and Passenger Safety

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 underside.

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and can even kill you.

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

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.

Driver and Passenger Safety

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 follows.

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.

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

Safety Labels

RADIATOR CAP

Driver and Passenger Safety

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............................ 30
Indicator Lights................................ 31
Gauges.............................................. 35
Speedometer................................ 35
Tachometer.................................. 35
Odometer...................................... 35
Trip Meter.................................... 35
Fuel Gauge................................... 36
Temperature Gauge.................... 36

Controls Near the Steering

Wheel........................................ 37
Headlights.................................... 38
Daytime Running Lights............. 38
Instrument Panel Brightness..... 39
Turn Signals................................. 39
Windshield Wipers...................... 40
Windshield Washers................... 40
Hazard Warning........................... 41
Rear Window Defogger.............. 41
Steering Wheel Adjustment....... 42
Steering Wheel Controls ................ 43
Cruise Control.............................. 43
Keys and Locks................................ 45
Keys............................................... 45
Ignition Switch............................. 46
Door Locks................................... 47

Instruments and Controls

Power Door Locks....................... 48
Trunk............................................48
Rear Locking Compartment....... 50
Seat Adjustments............................. 50
Power Windows............................... 51
Removable Roof Panel.................... 53
Removing and Storing................. 54
Installing....................................... 55
Protecting Against Leaks........... 57
Roof Holder.................................. 59
Roof Unlatched Indicator........... 59
Mirrors.............................................. 60
Adjusting the Power Mirrors..... 60
Parking Brake.................................. 61
Glove Box......................................... 61
Digital Clock..................................... 62
Console Compartment.................... 63
Beverage Holder.............................. 63
Sun Visor........................................... 64
Cigarette Lighter............................. 64
Ashtray.............................................. 64
Interior Light.................................... 65

Instruments and Controls

HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS (P.68)

AUDIO SYSTEM (P.76)

Control Locations

DIGITAL CLOCK (P.62)

DOOR LOCK SWITCH (P.48)

MIRROR CONTROLS (P.60)

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.51)

FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE (P.92)

TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE (P.49)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.93)

Instruments and Controls

Indicator Lights

ROOF AND TRUNK MONITOR

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR

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

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. 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.

* Differences in the indicators for Canadian models are noted in the text.

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

LOW FUEL INDICATOR

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*

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.

Charging System Indicator

If this light comes on when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged. For complete information, see page 187.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

The engine can be severely damaged if this light flashes or stays on when the engine is running. For complete information, see page 186.

Instruments and Controls

Canada

U.S. BRAKE

Parking Brake and Brake System Indicator 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, and cause the Anti-lock brake system to turn off (see page 111).

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.

SRS See page 14.

Supplemental Restraint System Indicator

Malfunction Indicator Lamp See page 188.

Low Fuel Indicator

This light comes on as a reminder that you must refuel soon.

Roof and Trunk Monitor

ROOF UNLATCHED INDICATOR

TRUNK OPEN INDICATOR

REAR WINDOW INDICATOR

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

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 57.

Trunk Open Indicator: This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II) if the trunk is not closed completely. See page 48.

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

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 162 ). 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 38 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 38 ).

Cruise Control Indicator

CRUISE CONTROL Only on cars equipped with Cruise Control System This lights when you set the cruise control. See page 43 for information on operating the cruise control.

Indicator Lights

Canada

U.S. ABS Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Indicator Only on cars equipped with ABS (see page 110) This light normally conies on when you turn the ignition ON (II) and goes off after the engine starts. If it comes on at any other time, there is a problem in the ABS. If this happens, stop the car in a safe place and turn off the engine. Reset the system by restarting the engine.

Watch the ABS light. If it does not go off, or comes back on again while driving, take the car to your dealer to have it checked. With the light on, your car still has normal braking ability but no anti-lock.

Instruments and Controls

TACHOMETER

SPEEDOMETER

ODOMETER

TRIP METER TRIP METER

RESET BUTTON

Speedometer U.S. Models This shows your speed in miles per hour (mph). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in kilometers per hour (km/h).

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 kilometers per hour (km/h). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in miles per hour (mph).

Gauges

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 disconnect, reset, or 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.

Instruments and Controls

Gauges

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).

Instruments and Controls

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 " H" (Hot) mark, pull safely to the side of the road. Turn to page 184 for instructions and precautions on checking the engine's cooling system.

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 U.S. Si and VTEC models There is cruise control switch on the left edge.

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

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

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

CRUISE CONTROL

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS

HORN BUTTONS

HEADLIGHTS/ TURN SIGNALS

TILT ADJUSTMENT

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS

Instruments and Controls

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Headlights

If you leave the lights on with the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0), you will hear a reminder beeper when you open the driver's door.

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

turns on the

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 34).

Instruments and Controls

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.

Instrument Panel Brightness

Turn Signals

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

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 instru- ment 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 automatically as you complete the turn.

Instruments and Controls

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Windshield Wipers

Windshield Washers

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.

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

: low speed : high speed

In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. In low speed and high speed, the wipers run continu- ously.

Instruments and Controls

Hazard Warning

Rear Window Defogger

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 accidentally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side to side.

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

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.

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.

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.

Instruments and Controls

Cruise Control On Si and VTEC models in the U.S., and VTEC model in Canada 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 control can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control only when traveling on open highways in good weather.

Steering Wheel Controls

NOTICE

The cruise control, as it operates, mores 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).

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Steering Wheel 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.

Instruments and Controls

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 acceler- ate 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.

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.

Steering Wheel Controls, Keys and Locks

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

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.

Keys

KEY NUMBER PLATE

VALET KEY MASTER KEY

Your car comes with two kinds of keys: a master key and a valet key. The master key fits all the locks on your car: Ignition Doors Rear locking compartment Trunk Trunk release handle

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Ignition Switch

Keys and Locks

The valet key only works the ignition and the door locks. You can keep the trunk, rear locking compartment and trunk release handle locked when you leave your car and valet key at a parking facility.

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.

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).

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 trans- mission, 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 ignition switch only when parked.

Instruments and Controls

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

Door Locks

Keys and Locks

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 instru- ment 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.

LOCK TAB KEY 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.

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

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.

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks

Power Door Locks

MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

On Si and VTEC models in the U.S., and VTEC model in Canada The master door lock switch allows control of both door locks from the driver's door. Push the bottom of the switch to lock both doors, and the top to unlock them.

Instruments and Controls

Trunk

Both doors lock when you push in the lock tab on the driver's door, or lock the driver's door from the outside with the key. Only the driver's door unlocks when you use the key or lock tab. To unlock the passenger's door, use the master door lock switch or pull out the lock tab on the passenger's door.

Open the trunk by putting the master 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 26 .

Keys and Locks

ROOF HOLDER

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. See page 98 for cargo loading and weight limit information.

TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE

MASTER KEY

You can also open the trunk by pulling the trunk release handle to the left of the driver's seat.

To protect items in the trunk when you need to give the key to someone else, lock the trunk release handle with the master key and give the other person the valet key.

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks, Seat Adjustments

Rear Locking Compartment

Seat Adjustments

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

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 electrically- 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 child is away from the window before closing it.

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 panel 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

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