1992 Honda Civic Hatchback Owners Manual

other controls.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System

Scrapping an entire car that has an uninflated airbag 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 sys- tem. Alert them to the information and precautions in this part of the owner's manual.

System Service Precautions Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of the supple- mental restraint system. Modifica- tions could make the system inef- fective.

Do not tamper with the system components or wiring. This could cause the airbag 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.

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 in the following situations:

If your airbag ever inflates. The bag must be replaced. Do not try to remove or discard the airbag 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 airbag might not inflate when you need it.

When the car is ten years old, get the system inspected. The production date is on the driver's door jamb for your convenience.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Safety Information

The seat belts and airbag 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 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 passengers to get the most protec- tion 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 48.

Door Locks It is not safe to leave your car doors unlocked. A passenger, especially a child, could open the 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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstA small dog, cat, or other small animal will be safest in a rigidly- sided pet carrier. Choose a style that allows you to secure it to the car's seat by routing a seat belt through the carrier's handle.

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

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.

(DX and Si) Do not put any items on top of the cargo area cover. They can block your rear view, and could be thrown about the interior in a crash.

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

For information on loading cargo, see page 78.

Driving with Pets Loose pets can be a hazard while you are driving. A loose 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 or your passengers. 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 rear seat with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are available at pet stores.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

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.

Child Safety

Where Should Children Sit? According to accident statistics provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), children of all sizes and ages are safer when they are properly restrained in the rear seat rather than the front seat.

We recommend that, whenever possible, you secure your child's infant or toddler seat in the center position of the rear seat with the lap belt.

We also recommend that any child who is too large to use an infant or toddler seat ride in one of the out- side positions of the rear seat. The child should then wear the lap/ shoulder belt properly for protec- tion.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo properly route a seat belt through a child seat, follow the seat maker's instructions. If you use a lap/shoulder belt, be sure you install a locking clip on the belt (see page 21).

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

Child Safety

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWe recommend that, whenever possible, you put the infant seat in the center position of the rear seat and secure it to the car with the lap belt.

If you decide to put an infant seat in any other seating position, you must use a locking clip on the car's lap/shoulder belt (see page 21).

Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs) Toddler seats are designed for children who weigh between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs).

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

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

Child Safety

The preferred place to put a toddler seat is in the center position of the rear seat. Use the car's lap belt to secure the seat to the car.

If you decide to put a toddler seat in any other seating position, you must use a locking clip on the car's lap/shoulder belt (see page 21).

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChild Safety

Using Child Restraints with Tethers

Tighten the bolt to: 22 N.m(2.2 kg-m , 16 Ib-ft)

Canadian Cars

500 mm (19.7 in)

270 mm (10.6 in)

Your Honda has three attachment points for tether-style child seats. Use the dimensions in the above illustration to locate the attach- ment point you want to use. There is a perforation on the lining at each attachment point. Cut the lining along the perforation to make a hole. Then install the tether hardware that came with the child seat.

Driver and Passenger Safety

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

TOOTHED WASHER

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

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

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

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

To install a locking clip, do the following:

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

2. Insert the latch plate into the

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

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

Chad Safety

4. Install the locking clip as shown.

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

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

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

Child Safety

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

We recommend that, whenever possible, a child who has outgrown a toddler seat ride in one of the outside positions of the rear seat and use a lap/shoulder belt.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Put the lap/shoulder belt on your child and check its fit. The shoul- der belt should fit over the collar- bone 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, have your child move toward the center of the rear seat until the belt fits properly. If the belt still crosses the child's neck, you should use a booster seat.

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

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAlcohol and Drugs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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. Push the 2. Select the 3. Turn the fan on high speed. 4. Set the temperature control to a

button. mode.

comfortable setting.

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

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

Carbon Monoxide Hagh

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

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

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

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReporting Safety Defects (US Cars)

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

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

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSafety Labels

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

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

BATTERY

Driver and Passenger Safety

RADIATOR CAP

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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........................... 28
Indicator Lights.............................. 29
Gauges.............................................. 34
Speedometer............................... 34
Tachometer................................. 34
Odometer .................................. 34
Trip Meter................................... 34
Fuel Gauge.................................. 35
Temperature Gauge.................. 35

Controls Near the Steering

Wheel........................................ 36
Headlights................................... 37
Daytime Running Lights.......... 37
Instrument Panel Brightness... 38
Turn Signals................................ 38
Windshield Wipers..................... 39
Windshield Washers.................. 39
Rear Window Wiper and

Washer..................................... 40
Hazard Warning......................... 40
Rear Window Defogger ............ 40
Steering Wheel Adjustment..... 41
Steering Wheel Controls............... 42
Cruise Control............................. 42
Horn.............................................. 45

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks.............................. 45
Keys..............................................45
Ignition Switch........................... 45
Door Locks.................................. 46
Hatch/Tailgate........................... 47
Seat Adjustments........................... 48
Rear Seat Access........................ 49
Head Restraints.......................... 49
Folding Rear Seat...................... 50
Cargo Area Cover...................... 50
Moonroof.......................................... 51
Sunshade...................................... 52
Mirrors............................................. 52
Parking Brake................................. 54
Glove Box........................................ 54
Digital Clock.................................... 55
Cup Holder...................................... 56
Vanity Mirror.................................. 56
Cigarette Lighter........................... 57
Ashtrays........................................... 57
Interior Light.................................. 58
Cargo Area Light........................... 59

Instruments and Controls

Main MenustMIRROR CONTROLS (P.53)

DIGITAL CLOCK (P.55)

HEATING/ COOLING CONTROL (P.62)

Control Locations

FUEL FILLER DOOR RELEASE (P.72)

HATCH/TAILGATE RELEASE HANDLE (P.47)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.73)

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe instrument panel has many indicators to give you important information about your car.

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

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

** The VX model has the Upshift Indicator

in this position.

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM LIGHT

LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM LIGHT*

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT*

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR**

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM

INDICATOR

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

HATCH/ TAILGATE-OPEN INDICATOR

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIndicator Lights

CHARGING SYSTEM LIGHT

LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM LIGHT*

UPSHIFT INDICATOR

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT*

HATCH/TAILGATE-OPEN INDICATOR

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR

Instruments and Controls

Seat Belt Reminder Light

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder to you and your passengers 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.

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstUS Canada

Parking Brake and Brake System Light

BRAKE This light has two functions:

1. It lights as a reminder that you

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

2. It can indicate the brake fluid

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

Charging System Light

This light indicates the battery is not being charged. It should come on when the ignition is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. If this light comes on while driving, the battery is not being charged. Turn to page 157 for information about what to do.

Low Oil Pressure Light

This indicator lights when the oil pressure in the engine drops low enough to cause damage. It should light when the ignition is ON (II) and go out after the engine starts. If this light comes on when the engine is running, there is a possi- bility of serious engine damage. Safely pull to the side of the road and shut off the engine as soon as you can. Turn to page 156 for in- structions and precautions on checking the engine.

Indicator Lights

S RS

Supplemental Restraint System Indicator

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

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

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSome road or traffic conditions may require you to accelerate more rapidly or press the accelerator pedal almost to the floor. The light will not come on under those conditions.

Indicator Lights

Upshift Indicator

Only on U.S. VX and CX (except in California) and Canadian VX models The upshift indicator's purpose is to help you get better fuel economy. It does this by lighting to inform you of the most economical point to upshift your 5-speed transmission.

You get the best fuel economy by driving in the highest gear practi- cal for your road speed, and by using light to moderate pressure on the accelerator pedal. When you are accelerating moderately, the upshift indicator will light when it is the best time to shift to the next higher gear. By shifting as soon as the light comes on, you will keep the engine operating in its most economical range. The upshift indicator will then go out until it is time to upshift again.

Instruments and Controls

US

Canada

Check Engine Light

This light comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it indicates one of the engine's emission control systems may have a problem. Turn to page 158 for information about what to do.

Hatch/Tailgate-open Indicator

This light comes on if the hatch or tailgate is not closed tightly.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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 130 ). Replace it as soon as possible, since other drivers cannot see that you are signaling.

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 37 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 37 ).

Cruise Control Indicator

Only on cars equipped with Cruise Control System This lights when you set the cruise control. See page 42 for informa- tion on operating the cruise control.

Indicator Lights

Shift Lever Position Indicator (Automatic Transmission only)

This indicator shows which shift position you are in.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstGauges

TACHOMETER

SPEEDOMETER

FUEL GAUGE TEMPERATURE

GAUGE

ODOMETER

TRIP METER

TRIP METER RESET BUTTON

Tachometer On VX and Si models 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.

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

Canadian Models This shows your speed in kilo- meters per hour. The smaller inner numbers are the speed in miles per hour.

Instruments and Controls

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

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTEMPERATURE GAUGE

SPEEDOMETER

FUEL GAUGE

ODOMETER TRIP METER

TRIP METER RESET BUTTON

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

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

Gauges

Temperature Gauge This shows the temperature of the engine's coolant. During normal operation, the pointer should rise from the bottom white mark to about the middle of the gauge. In severe driving conditions, such as very hot weather or a long period of uphill driving, the pointer may rise to the upper white mark. If it reaches the red (Hot) mark, pull safely to the side of the road. Turn to page 154 for instructions and precautions on checking the engine's cooling system.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

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

The rear window defogger switch is on the dashboard to the right of the steering column.

The controls under the left air vent are for the moonroof, mirrors, cruise control and instrument panel brightness.

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

Instruments and Controls

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS

CRUISE CONTROL

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

MIRROR CONTROLS

HEADLIGHTS/ TURN SIGNALS

TILT ADJUSTMENT

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

Headlights

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

To change between low beams and high beams, pull back on the turn signal lever until you hear a click, then let go. The high beam indica- tor will light (see page 33).

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

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

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

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

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

Instrument Panel Brightness

Turn Signals

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

The dial on the dashboard to the left of the instrument panel con- trols the brightness of the instru- ment panel lights. Turn the dial to adjust the brightness.

TURN SIGNAL LEVER

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWindshield Wipers

Windshield Washers

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

The right lever controls the wind- shield wipers and washers. The rotary switch at the end of the lever has two or three positions depending on model: INT—intermittent (Except U.S. VX and CX models, and Canadian VX model) LO—low speed HI— high speed

In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. In low speed

and high speed, the wipers run continuously.

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

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

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

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

Rear Window Wiper and Washer

Hazard Warning

Rear Window Defogger

WIPER/WASHER

Available only on DX and Si models To turn on the rear window wiper, turn the ring clockwise to ON. To also use the rear window washer, turn the ring clockwise past ON. The washer will spray as long as you hold the ring in this position. If you turn the ring counterclockwise from the OFF position, the washer will spray without activating the rear window wiper.

Instruments and Controls

Push the red button under the clock to turn on the hazard warn- ing lights (four-way flashers). This causes all four outside turn signals and both indicators in the instru- ment 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.

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

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

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Steering Wheel Adjustment Available only on DX and Si models You can adjust the steering wheel height to suit your preference. Do this before you begin driving.

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

Adjust the steering wheel only when the car is stopped.

1. Adjust the seat so you are a

comfortable distance from the pedals.

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

3. Move the steering wheel up or

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

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

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSteering Wheel Controls

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

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

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

Instruments and Controls

NOTICE

Using the Cruise Control

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

1. Push in the Cruise Control

Master Switch to the left of the steering column. The indicator in the switch will light.

2. Accelerate to the desired

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

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

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

RESUME/ accel

SET/decel

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

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.

Steering Wheel Controls

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.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of Contentsston. The car will accelerate to the same cruising speed as before.

Pressing the Cruise Control Master Switch turns the system completely off. This erases the previous cruising speed from memory. To use the system again, you must set the system up as explained in Using the Cruise Control.

Steering Wheel Controls

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.

Turning off the Cruise Control Either of these actions take the car out of cruise control:

Tap the brake or, if manual trans- mission, clutch pedal.

Press the Cruise Control Master Switch.

Instruments and Controls

When you tap the brake or clutch pedal, the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out and the car will begin to slow down. You can use the acceler- ator pedal in the normal way. The system retains the previously-set cruising speed. To return to that speed, accelerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h) and then press the RESUME/accel button until the CRUISE CONTROL light comes

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSteering Wheel Controls, Keys and Locks

Horn

Keys

Ignition Switch

HORN

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

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

Ignition Doors Hatch/tailgate

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

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

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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 29).

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

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

Door Locks

Each door has a lock tab next to the inside door handle. Push the tab forward to lock the door, and pull it backward to unlock.

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstKeys and Locks

Hatch/Tailgate

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

HATCH RELEASE HANDLE

You can open the hatch in two ways:

Pull the hatch release handle. It is to the left of the driver's seat.

Use the ignition key to open the hatch lock on the tailgate.

To open the tailgate, swing the hatch up out of the way. Push the release lever to the left, then swing the tailgate down.

You must close the tailgate before closing the hatch. To close, swing the tailgate up and push it firmly until it latches. Lower the hatch and push it closed.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstKeys and Locks, Seat Adjustments

Seat Adjustments

See page 78 for cargo loading and weight limit information. Keep the hatch and tailgate closed at all times while driving to avoid damage and to prevent exhaust gas from getting into the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 24.

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

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

Seat Adjustments

Rear Seat Access

To get into the back seat on the driver's side, pull up on the seat- back adjustment lever.

To tilt the passenger's seat-back out of the way, push forward on the release lever at the base of the seat-back.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFolding Rear Seat, Cargo Area Cover

Folding Rear Seat

Cargo Area Cover

To lock the seat-back upright, move the seat belt out of the way then push the seat-back firmly against its latch. Tug on the seat- back to make sure it is latched.

Make sure all items in the cargo area are tied down. Loose items can fly forward and cause injury if you have to brake hard. See Loading Cargo on page 78 .

The back of the rear seat folds down to give you more cargo space. Each side folds down separately. With only half the seat folded, you can still carry a passenger in the back seat.

To unlatch either side of the seat- back, pull up on the release tab. Move the seat belt out of the way and fold the seat-back down.

Instruments and Controls

Only on DX and Si models To get to the cargo area without opening the tailgate, lift the back of the cover and fold it over the front half.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCargo Area Cover, Moonroof

Moonroof

To close the moonroof, press and hold the

switch.

To remove the cargo area cover, place your hands, palms up, under the front half of the cover near the outside edges. Lift it straight up. To install the cover, line up the mounting rods with the slots then push down on the cover until it clips into place. Make sure it is securely latched so it will not come loose while you are driving.

Available only on Si model Use the switches on the dashboard under the left vent to operate the moonroof. The ignition must be ON (II).

To lift the rear of the moonroof for ventilation, push the button. To slide the moonroof back, push the switch. Hold it until the moonroof reaches the desired position, then release the switch.

Closing the moonroof on some- one's hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

Make sure passengers are clear of the moonroof before closing it.

NOTICE

If you try to open the moonroof in below-freezing temperatures, or when it is covered with snow or ice, you can damage the moonroof panel or motor.

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Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMoonroof, Mirrors

Sunshade

Mirrors

Manual Door Mirrors

You can slide the sunshade to any position when the moonroof is closed. The sunshade slides open with the moonroof. You must close it manually.

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

Except Si model The outside mirror on the driver's door can be adjusted by moving the knob on the inside of the door.

TAB

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.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH

Mirrors

Available only on Si model Adjust the outside mirrors with the adjustment switch on the left side of the dashboard:

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.

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.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstParking Brake, Glove Box

Parking Brake

NOTICE

Glove Box

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

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 31).

Instruments and Controls

GLOVE BOX

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

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

Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHOUR

MIN

RESET

Available only on Si model The digital clock displays the time with the ignition switch ON (II). To see the time with the ignition off, press and hold the wide button under the clock.

To set the clock:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II)

to display the time.

2. Swing down the front cover of

the wide button under the clock display. You will see HOUR, MIN., and RESET buttons.

Digital Clock

3. Press and hold the HOUR button

until the hour advances to the desired time.

4. Press and hold the MIN. button until the minute advance to the desired time.

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

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCup Holder, Vanity Mirror

Cup Holder

Vanity Mirror

Push

Available only on Si model To use the vanity mirror, pull down the passenger's sunvisor.

To open the cup holder, push on the top. It is spring-loaded and will slide open. To close it, push it down until it latches.

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

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

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCigarette Lighter, Ashtrays

Cigarette Lighter

Ashtrays

CIGARETTE LIGHTER

ASHTRAY

ASHTRAY

The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for the cigarette lighter to work. To heat up the lighter, push it in. It will pop out when it is ready for use. Do not hold the lighter in while it is heating up, you could cause it to overheat.

Open the front ashtray by pulling on the bottom edge. Push it in to close it. To remove the ashtray for empty- ing, push down on the metal plate inside, then pull the ashtray out completely.

The rear ashtray is at the rear end of the center console. Open the ashtray by swinging the upper edge of the lid down. To remove the ashtray for emptying, open it then lift up and out.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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 ashtrays.

Interior Light (Except Si)

DOOR ACTIVATED

ON

OFF

(Si)

DOOR ACTIVATED

OFF

ON

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

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAvailable only on Si model The cargo area light has a two- position switch. In the OFF (down) position, the light does not come on. In the ON (up) position, the light comes on when you open the hatch.

Cargo Area Light

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstComfort and Convenience Features

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

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

Controlling Air Flow

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

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

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main Menust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 to create the desired environment. The air flows into the interior at three possible levels, which you can select.

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

CENTER VENT

SIDE VENT

CLOSE

OPEN

The direction of airflow from the vents in the center and each side of the dashboard is adjustable. Move the tab in the center of each vent up-and-down and side-to-side.

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.

The side and upper vents can be opened and closed with the dials next to them.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

UPPER VENT

OPEN

CLOSE

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

What Each Control Does

Fan Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the fan speed, which increases air flow.

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

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

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

RECIRCULATED AIR

AIR CONDITIONER ON/OFF SWITCH

MODE BUTTONS

FRESH AIR

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

Fresh Air and Recirculation Buttons These two buttons control the source of air going into the system. In Fresh Air mode, air comes from outside the car. In Recirculation mode, the interior air recycles through the system.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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 vents near the hatch. This system provides fresh air even when the car is standing still. To bring in outside air, press the button. Set the fan at a comfortable speed.

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

mode to heat or cool the

Use interior more quickly, or to keep out smoke and dust. Leaving the system in recirculation mode with the A/C off can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to 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 conditioner 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 conditioner does not de- pend on engine temperature. It can produce cold air almost immedi- ately.

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

and

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

To Cool with A/C To operate the air conditioner, press the air conditioning button. 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:

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

button.

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

Select

and

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

MODE BUTTONS

AIR CONDITIONER ON/OFF BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

The air conditioner places an extra load on the engine. Watch the coolant temperature gauge (see page 35 ) when using the A/C in heavy traffic or driving up long hills. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the air conditioner until the gauge reads normally.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo Dehumidify and Defog with A/C An air conditioner removes mois- ture from the air as it operates. You can use it to defog the win- dows quickly in cool or damp wea- ther. Used in combination with the heater, it also makes the interior warm and dry. This setting is best for all driving conditions whenever the outside temperature is above 32°F (0°C).

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

is usually best.

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

Heating and Cooling

MODE BUTTONS

AIR CONDITIONER BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

To Heat To warm the interior, press

and

. Set the fan to

the desired speed. Adjust the warmth of the air with the tempe- rature control lever.

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

1. Start the engine. 2. Select and 3. Slide the temperature control

lever to maximum heat.

4. Leave the fan OFF for the first

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

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

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

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

To Defrost To remove frost or ice from the windshield and side windows after the car has been sitting out in cold weather.

1. Start the engine. 2. Select and 3. Set the fan and temperature

controls to maximum.

These settings direct all the air flow to the defroster vents at the base of the windshield and the side