1997 Honda Civic Hatchback Owners Manual

9. Using gloves or a large heavy

cloth, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pushing down, to the first stop. This releases any remaining pressure in the cooling system. After the pressure releases, push down on the cap and turn it until it comes off.

If Your Engine Overheats

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

11. Put the radiator cap back on

tightly. Run the engine and watch the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair. (See Towing on page 182 .)

12. If the temperature stays normal,

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

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of Contentsst4. Start the engine and watch the oil

pressure indicator. If the light does not go out within ten seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving. (See Towing on page 182.)

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

NOTICE

Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn off the engine as soon as you can safely get the car stopped.

1. Safely pull off the road and shut

off the engine. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.

2. Let the car sit for a minute. Open

the hood and check the oil level (see page 84 ). Although oil level and oil pressure are not directly connected, an engine that is very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

3. If necessary, add oil to bring the level back to the full mark on the dipstick (see page 118).

This indicator should light when the ignition is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. It should never come on when the engine is running. If it starts flashing, it indicates that the oil pressure dropped very low for a moment, then recovered. If the indicator stays on with the engine running, it shows that the engine has lost oil pressure and serious engine damage is possible. In either case, you should take immediate action.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

Charging System Indicator

Immediately turn off all electrical accessories: heater, A/C, rear defogger, etc. Try not to use other electrically-operated controls such as the radio. Keep the engine running and take extra care not to stall it. Starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

By eliminating as much of the electrical load as possible, you can drive several miles before the battery is too discharged to keep the engine running. Drive to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

This indicator should come on when the ignition is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. If it comes on brightly when the engine is running, it indicates that the charging system has stopped charging the battery.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstYou should also have the dealer inspect your vehicle if this indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may turn off as you continue driving.

NOTICE

If you keep driving with the malfunc- tion indicator lamp on, you can damage your car's emission controls and engine. Those repairs may not be covered by your car's warranties.

If you have recently refueled your vehicle, the cause of this indicator coming on could be a loose or missing fuel fill cap. Check the cap and tighten it until it clicks. Replace the fuel fill cap if it is missing. Tightening the cap will not make the indicator turn off immediately; it takes three driving trips.

If the indicator remains on past three driving trips, or the fuel cap was not loose or missing, have the vehicle checked by the dealer as soon as possible. Drive moderately until the dealer has inspected the problem. Avoid full-throttle acceleration and driving at high speed.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

This indicator 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 emissions control systems may have a problem. Even though you may feel no difference in your car's performance, it can reduce your fuel economy and cause your car to put out excessive emissions. Continued operation may cause serious damage.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAll the electrical circuits in your car have fuses to protect them from a short circuit or overload. These fuses are located in two or three fuse boxes.

INTERIOR

TAB

UNDER-HOOD

Fuses

The interior fuse box is underneath the dashboard on the driver's side. Remove the fuse box lid by swinging the lid down and pulling it straight out of its hinges.

The under-hood fuse box is located in the engine compartment next to the battery. To open it, push the tab as shown.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFuses

ABS FUSE BOX

Cars equipped with ABS have a third fuse box for the ABS. It is in the engine compartment on the passen- ger's side.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your car stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages 180 and 181, or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that component. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that a blown fuse is not the cause. Replace any blown fuses and check the component's operation.

1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Make sure the headlights and all other accessories are off.

2. Remove the cover from the fuse

box.

BLOWN

3. Check each of the large fuses in

the under-hood fuse box by looking through the top at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screw- driver.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFUSE PULLER

BLOWN

4. Check the smaller fuses in the under-hood fuse box and all the fuses in the interior fuse box by pulling out each fuse with the fuse puller provided in the interior fuse box.

5. Look for a burned wire inside the fuse. If it is burned, replace it with one of the spare fuses of the same rating or lower.

If you cannot drive the car without fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the accessory socket or radio).

Fuses

If you replace the blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating, it might blow out again. This does not indicate anything wrong. Replace the fuse with one of the correct rating as soon as you can.

NOTICE

Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances of damaging the electrical system. If you do not have a replace- ment fuse with the proper rating for the circuit, install one with a lower rating.

6. If the replacement fuse of the

same rating blows in a short time, there is probably a serious electrical problem in your car. Leave the blown fuse in that circuit and have your car checked by a qualified technician.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFuses

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

Taking Care of the Unexpected

* : On Canadian models

Main MenuTable of ContentsstUNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX

Fuses

ABS FUSE BOX

* 1 : U.S. model * 2 : Canadian model

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing

If your car needs to be lowed, call a professional towing service or, if you belong to one, an organization that provides roadside assistance. Never tow your car behind another car with just a rope or chain. It is very dangerous.

Emergency Towing There are three popular methods of towing a car:

Flat-bed Equipment — The operator loads your car on the back of a truck. This is the best way of trans- porting your Honda.

Wheel Lift Equipment — The tow truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the tires (front or rear) and lift them off the ground. The other two tires remain on the ground.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Sling-type Equipment — The tow truck uses metal cables with hooks on the ends. These hooks go around parts of the frame or suspension and the cables lift that end of the car off the ground. Your car's suspension and body can be seriously damaged if this method of towing is attempted.

If your Honda cannot be transported by flat-bed, it should be towed with the front wheels off the ground. If due to damage, your car must be towed with the front wheels on the ground, do the following:

5-speed Manual Transmission Release the parking brake. Shift the transmission to Neutral.

Automatic Transmission:

Release the parking brake. Start the engine. Shift to D , then to N. Turn off the engine.

NOTICE

Improper to wing preparation will damage the transmission. Follow the above procedure exactly. If you cannot shift the transmission or start the engine (automatic transmission), your car must be transported on a flat-bed.

It is best to tow the car no farther than 50 miles (80 km), and keep the speed below 35 mph (55
km/h).

If your car is equipped with a front spoiler, remove it before towing so it is not damaged.

NOTICE

Trying to lift or tow your car by the bumpers will cause serious damage. The bumpers are not designed to support the car's weight.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe diagrams in this section give you the dimensions and capacities of your Honda, and the locations of the identification numbers. The expla- nations of several electronic and mechanical systems on your Honda are for the more technically-oriented owner.

Identification Numbers................. 184
Specifications................................. 186
Tire Information............................ 188
Tire Size Designation................ 188
Wheel Size Designation............ 188
Tire Speed Ratings.................... 188
Tire Pressure Adjustment

For High Speed Driving........ 189
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 189
Treadwear.............................. 189
Traction.................................. 190
Temperature.......................... 190

Technical Information

Emission Controls......................... 191
The Clean Air Act...................... 191
Crankcase Emission Control

System..................................... 191

Evaporative Emission Control

System..................................... 191
Exhaust Emission Controls...... 192
PGM-FI System..................... 192
Ignition Timing Control

System................................. 192

Three Way Catalytic

Converter............................ 192
Replacement Parts..................... 192
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 193

Technical Information

Main MenustIdentification Numbers

Your car has several identifying numbers located in various places.

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the 17-digit number your Honda dealer uses to register your car for warranty purposes. It is also necessary for licensing and insuring your car. The easiest place to find the VIN is on a plate fastened to the top of the dashboard. You can see it by looking through the windshield on the driver's side. It is also on the Certification label attached to the driver's doorjamb, and is stamped on the engine compartment bulkhead. The VIN is also provided in bar code on the Certification label.

Technical Information

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

CERTIFICATION LABEL

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Engine Number is stamped into the engine block.

The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission.

TRANSMISSION NUMBER

Identification Numbers

ENGINE NUMBER

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications

Dimensions

Capacities

Weights

Engine

Technical Information

* 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the

engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.4

(0.11 US g a l, 0.09 Imp gal)

* 2 : DX model * 3 : Except DX model

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAir Conditioning

Alignment

Specifications

Lights

Battery

Fuses

* : For cars with ABS

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTire Speed Ratings The chart below shows many of the different speed ratings currently being used for passenger car tires. The speed rating symbol is part of the tire size designation on the sidewall of the tire. This symbol corresponds to that tire's designed maximum safe operating speed.

Tire Information

Tire Size Designation A tire's sidewall is marked with a tire size designation. You will need this information when selecting replace- ment tires for your car. The follow- ing explains what the letters and numbers in the tire size designation mean.

(Example tire size designation) P185/65R14 85S

P — Applicable vehicle type (tires marked with the prefix "P" are intended for use on passenger cars; however, not all tires have this marking).

185 — Tire width in millimeters.

60 — Aspect ratio. The tire's section height as a percentage of its width.

14 — Rim diameter in inches.

85 — Load Index, a numerical code associated with the maximum load the tire can carry.

S — Speed Rating Symbol. See the speed rating chart in this section for additional information.

Wheel Size Designation Wheels are also marked with important information that you need if you ever have to replace one. The following explains what the letters and numbers in the wheel size designation mean.

(Example wheel size designation) 14x5J

14 — Rim diameter in inches.

R — Tire construction code (Radial).

5 — Rim width in inches.

J — Rim contour designation.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTire Information

Tire Pressure Adjustment For High Speed Driving Honda strongly recommends that you not drive faster than posted speed limits and conditions allow. If you decide it is safe to drive at high speeds, be sure to adjust the cold tire pressures as shown below. If you do not adjust the tire pressure, exces- sive heat can build up and cause sudden tire failure.

Be sure to readjust the pressure for normal driving speeds. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire pressure (see page 141).

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars) The tires on your car meet all U.S. Federal Safety Requirements. All tires are also graded for treadwear, traction, and temperature perform- ance according to Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. The following explains these gradings.

Treadwear The treadwear grade is a compara- tive rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one half (1-1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual condi- tions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

CONTINUED

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTire Information

Traction The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B, and C, and they represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

Warning: The traction grade as- signed to this tire is based on brak- ing (straight ahead) traction tests and does not include cornering (turning) traction.

Temperature The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not over- loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla- tion, or excessive loading either separately or in combination, can cause heat build-up and possible tire failure.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe burning of gasoline in your car's engine produces several byproducts. Some of these are carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline evaporating from the tank also produces hydrocarbons. Controlling the production of NOx, CO, and HC is important to the environment. Under certain conditions of sunlight and climate, NOx and HC react to form photochemical "smog." Carbon monoxide does not contribute to smog creation, but it is a poisonous gas.

The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Act* sets standards for automobile emissions. It also requires that automobile manufacturers explain to owners how their emission controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emission controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 112.

* In Canada, Honda vehicles comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) for Emissions valid at the time they are manufactured.

Emission Controls

Crankcase Emission Control System Your car has a Positive Crankcase Ventilation System. This keeps gasses that build up in the engine's crankcase from going into the atmosphere. The Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve routes them from the crankcase back to the intake manifold. They are then drawn into the engine and burned.

Evaporative Emission Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emission control canister filled with charcoal adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this canister while the engine is off. After the engine is started and warmed up, the vapor is drawn into the engine and burned during driving.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstEmission Controls

Exhaust Emission Controls The exhaust emission controls include three systems: PGM-FI, Ignition Timing Control and Three Way Catalytic Converter. These three systems work together to control the engine's combustion and minimize the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust emission control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emission control systems.

Technical Information

Replacement Parts The emission control systems are designed and certified to work to- gether in reducing emissions to levels that comply with the Clean Air Act. To make sure the emissions remain low, you should use only new Genuine Honda replacement parts or their equivalent for repairs. Using lower quality parts may increase the emissions from your car.

The emissions control systems are covered by warranties separate from the rest of your car. Read your warranty manual for more informa- tion.

PGM-FI System The PGM-FI System uses sequential multiport fuel injection. It has three subsystems: Air Intake, Engine Control, and Fuel Control. The Engine Control Module (ECM)/ Powertrain Control Module (PCM- A /T only) uses various sensors to determine how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all operat- ing conditions.

Ignition Timing Control System This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing, reducing the amount of HC, CO and NOx produced.

Three Way Catalytic Converter The three way catalytic converter is in the exhaust system. Through chemical reactions, it converts HC, CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO 2), dinitrogen (N2), and water vapor.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe three way catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gasses without affecting the metals. The catalytic converter is referred to as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Honda part or its equivalent.

The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take place. It can set on fire any com- bustible materials that come near it. Park your car away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flammables.

Three Way Catalytic Converter

Keep the engine tuned-up.

Have your car diagnosed and repaired if it is misfiring, back- firing, stalling, or otherwise not running properly.

THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER

A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engine's per- formance. Follow these guidelines to protect your car's three way catalytic converter.

Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty and Customer Relations

Customer Relations

Information................................. 196
U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 197
Canada Zone Office Map.............. 198
Warranty Coverages..................... 199
Reporting Safety Defects

(U.S. Cars).................................. 200
Authorized Manuals...................... 201

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenustCustomer Relations Information

Honda dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer all your questions. If you encounter a problem that your dealership does not solve to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealership's management. The Service Manager or General Manager can help. Almost all problems are solved in this way.

If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's management, contact your Honda Customer Relations Zone Office. Refer to the U.S. and Canadian Zone Office maps on the following pages.

When you call or write, please give us this information:

Vehicle Identification Number (see page 184) Name and address of the dealer who services your car Date of purchase Mileage on your car Your name, address, and tele- phone number A detailed description of the problem Name of the dealer who sold the car to you

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty Coverages

U.S. Owners Your new Honda is covered by these warranties:

Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered for the useful life of the car.

New Car Limited Warranty — covers your new car, except for the battery, emissions control systems and accessories, against defects in materials and workmanship.

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty — all exterior body panels are covered for rust-through from the inside for the specified time period with no mileage limit.

Emissions Control Systems Defects Warranty and Emissions Performance Warranty — these two warranties cover your car's emis- sions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are conditional. Please read the warranty manual for exact information.

Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty — this warranty gives up to 100 percent credit toward a replacement battery.

Accessory Limited Warranty — Genuine Honda Accessories are covered under this warranty. Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors. Please read your warranty manual for details.

Replacement Parts Limited Warranty — covers all Genuine Honda replacement parts against defects in materials and workman- ship.

Replacement Battery Limited Warranty — provides prorated coverage for a replacement battery purchased from a Honda dealer.

Replacement Muffler Lifetime Limited Warranty — provides coverage for as long as the pur- chaser of the muffler owns the car.

Restrictions and exclusions apply to all these warranties. Please read the 1997 Honda Warranties booklet that came with your car for precise information on warranty coverages. Your Honda's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty information is in a separate booklet.

Canadian Owners Please refer to the 1997 Warranty Manual that came with your car.

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReporting Safety Defects (U.S. 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 addition to notifying American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

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

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

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAccessories

Installation.................................... 87

ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

Position)........................................ 46
Accessory Power Socket................ 54
Adding

Automatic Transmission

Fluid........................................ 128
Brake Fluid................................. 130
Clutch Fluid................................ 130
Engine Coolant........................... 122
Engine Oil...................................118
Manual Transmission Fluid..... 129
Power Steering Fluid................. 131
Windshield Washer Fluid......... 127
Additional Safety Information........ 18
Door Locks................................... 19
Driving with Pets......................... 19
Seat-back Position........................ 18
Storing Cargo Safely................... 19
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 119
Adjustments

Headlights.................................. 147
Head Restraints........................... 49

Mirrors.......................................... 51
Seats.............................................. 48
Airbag (SRS).................................... 12
Air Cleaner Element...................... 132
Air Conditioning............................... 58
Maintenance............................... 139
Usage.............................................58
Air Outlets (Vents).......................... 60
Air Pressure, Tires........................ 141
Alcohol and Drugs........................... 27
Alcohol in Gasoline.......................... 80
Antifreeze....................................... 122
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Indicator Light..................... 35, 103
Operation.................................... 101

Anti-theft Steering Column

Lock............................................... 46
Appearance Care........................... 157
Ashtray.............................................. 54
Audio System................................... 66
Automatic Transmission................. 94
Capacity, Fluid........................... 186
Checking Fluid Level................ 128
Shifting.......................................... 94
Shift Position Indicator............... 94
Shift Lever Positions................... 95

Index

Shift Lock Release....................... 98

Battery

Charging System Light....... 35, 175
Jump Starting............................. 170
Maintenance............................... 135
Specifications............................. 187
Before Driving................................. 79
Belts, Seat........................................... 5
Beverage Holder.............................. 53
Body Repair.................................... 162
Brakes

Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 101
Break-in, New Linings................. 80
Fluid............................................ 130
Light, Burned-out...................... 152
Parking.......................................... 52
System Indicator.......................... 35
Wear Indicators......................... 100

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Brakes, ABS

Operation.................................... 101
System Indicator.................. 35, 103
Braking System.............................. 100
Break-in, New Car........................... 80
Brightness Control, Instruments... 42
Brights, Headlights......................... 41
Bulb Replacement

Back-up Lights........................... 152
Brake Light................................ 152
Ceiling Light............................... 155
Front Parking Lights................. 151
Front Side Marker Lights......... 151
Headlights.................................. 149
High-mount Brake Light.......... 153
License Plate Lights.................. 154
Rear Side Marker Lights.......... 152
Specifications............................. 187
Turn Signal Lights..................... 151
Bulbs, Halogen............................... 149

Cables, Jump Starting With.......... 171
Capacities Chart............................. 186
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 28

Cargo, Loading................................. 88
Cassette Player

Care............................................... 74
Operation...................................... 72
CAUTION, Explanation of............... ii CD Changer...................................... 76
CD Player.......................................... 75
Certification Label......................... 184
Chains............................................. 146
Change Oil

How to......................................... 120
"When to....................................... 112
Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 165
Changing Engine Coolant............. 124
Charging System Indicator.... 35, 175
Checking

Automatic Transmission

Fluid........................................ 128
Battery Condition...................... 135
Brake Fluid................................. 130
Clutch Fluid................................ 130
Drive Belts.................................. 140
Engine Coolant............................. 85
Engine Oil..................................... 84
Fuses...........................................178
Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 129

Power Steering Fluid................. 131
Checklist, Before Driving............... 90
Child Safety...................................... 20
Cleaner, Air.................................... 132
Cleaning

Exterior....................................... 158
Interior........................................ 160
Seat Belts.................................... 160
Vinyl............................................ 160
Windows..................................... 161
Clock, Setting the ............................ 71
Clutch Fluid.................................... 130
CO in the Exhaust......................... 191
Cold Weather, Starting in............... 91
Compact Spare............................... 164
Consumer Information*................ 196
Controls, Instruments and.............. 31
Coolant

Adding.........................................122
Checking....................................... 85
Proper Solution.......................... 122
Temperature Gauge.................... 38
Corrosion Protection..................... 161

Main MenustCrankcase Emission Control

System......................................... 191
Customer Relations Office........... 197

DANGER, Explanation of................. ii Dashboard........................................ 32
Daytime Running Lights................. 41
Dead Battery, What to Do............ 170
Defects, Reporting Safety............. 200
Defog and Defrost........................... 63
Defogger, Rear Window................. 44
Defrosting the Windows................. 63
DEXRON® III Automatic

Transmission Fluid.................... 128
Dimensions..................................... 186
Dimming the Headlights................ 41
Dipstick

Automatic Transmission........... 128
Engine Oil..................................... 84
Directional Signals........................... 42
Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 182
Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 100
Disposal of Used Oil...................... 121

Doors

Locking and Unlocking............... 47
DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 189
Downshifting, 5-speed Manual

Transmission................................ 92
Drive Belts...................................... 140
Driving.............................................. 89
Economy....................................... 86
In Bad Weather.......................... 104
In Foreign Countries................... 81

Economy, Fuel................................. 86
Emergencies on the Road............. 163
Battery, Jump Starting.............. 170
Changing a Flat Tire................. 165
Charging System Indicator...... 175
Checking the Fuses................... 178
Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 174
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 176
Overheated Engine................... 172
Emergency Brake............................ 52
Emergency Flashers....................... 44
Emission Controls......................... 191

Index

Engine

Belts............................................. 140
Coolant Temperature Gauge..... 38
Malfunction Indicator

Lamp................................. 36, 176
Oil Pressure Indicator......... 35, 174
Oil, What Kind to Use............... 118
Overheating................................ 172
Specifications............................. 186
Ethanol in Gasoline ......................... 81
Evaporative Emission Controls.... 191
Exhaust Fumes................................ 28
Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

Belts by......................................... 10
Exterior, Cleaning the................... 158

Fabric, Cleaning............................. 160
Fan, Interior...................................... 58
Features, Comfort and

Convenience................................. 57
Filling the Fuel Tank....................... 82

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Filter

Air................................................132
Oil................................................ 120

5-speed Manual Transmission

Checking Fluid Level................ 129
Shifting the................................... 92
Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 44
Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 165
Fluids

Automatic Transmission........... 128
Brake........................................... 130
Clutch.......................................... 130
Manual Transmission............... 129
Power Steering........................... 131
Windshield Washer...................127

FM Stereo Radio

Reception...................................... 69
Folding Rear Seat............................ 50
Foreign Countries, Driving in........ 81
Four-way Flashers........................... 44
Front End, Towing by

Emergency Wrecker................. 182
Fuel.................................................... 80
Fill Door and Cap......................... 82
Gauge............................................38
Octane Requirement................... 80

Oxygenated.................................. 80
Reserve Indicator......................... 36
Tank, Filling the........................... 82
Fuses, Checking the...................... 178

Gas Mileage, Improving.................. 86
Gasohol............................................. 80
Gasoline............................................ 80
Gauge............................................ 38
Octane Requirement................... 80
Tank, Filling the........................... 82
Gas Station Procedures................... 82
Gauges

Engine Coolant Temperature .... 38
Fuel................................................38

Gearshift Lever Positions

Automatic Transmission............. 95
5-speed Manual Transmission... 93
Glass Cleaning............................... 161
Glove Box......................................... 52

Hatch

Opening the.................................. 47
Open Monitor Light.................... 36
Hazard Warning Flashers............... 44
Headlights

Daytime Running Lights............. 41
High Beam Indicator................... 36
High Beams, Turning on............ 41
Low Beams, Turning on ............. 41
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 149
Turning on.................................... 41
Head Restraints............................... 49
Heating and Cooling........................ 58
High Altitude, Starting at................ 91
High-Low Beam Switch .................. 41
Hood, Opening the .......................... 83
Horn...................................................40
Hot Coolant, Warning about........ 122
Hydraulic Clutch............................ 130
Hydroplaning.................................. 105

Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 149

Identification Number, Vehicle.... 184
If Your Car Has to be Towed....... 182

Main MenustIgnition

Keys............................................... 45
Switch............................................ 46
Timing Control System............. 192

Indicator Lights, Instrument

Panel.............................................. 33
Infant Restraint................................ 22
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 141
Inside Mirror.................................... 51
Inspection, Tire.............................. 143
Instrument Panel............................. 32
Instrument Panel Brightness......... 42
Interior Cleaning............................ 160
Interior Lights.................................. 55
Introduction......................................... i

Jacking up the Car......................... 166
Jack, Tire........................................ 165
Jump Starting................................. 170

Keys................................................... 45

Label, Certification........................ 184
Lane Change, Signaling.................. 42
Lap Belt............................................... 7
Lap/Shoulder Belts........................... 6
Leaking of Exhaust into Car.......... 28
Lights

Bulb Replacement..................... 149
Indicator........................................ 33
Parking.......................................... 41
Turn Signal................................... 42
Loading Cargo.................................. 88
LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 46
Locks

Anti-theft Steering Column........ 46
Fuel Fill Door............................... 82
Glove Box..................................... 52
Hatch.............................................47
Low Coolant Level........................... 85
Low Fuel Indicator.......................... 36
Lower Gear, Downshifting to a...... 92
Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 35, 174
Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 186
Luggage............................................ 88

Index

Maintenance................................... 107
Owner Maintenance Checks.... 116
Record..................................114 - 115
Safety........................................... 108
Schedule.............................. 110 - 113
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.. 36, 176
Manual Transmission...................... 92
Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 129
Maximum Shift Speeds............. 93, 97
Meters, Gauges................................ 37
Methanol in Gasoline...................... 81
Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 51

Neutral Gear Position...................... 96
New Vehicle Break-in ..................... 80
Normal Shift Speeds........................ 93
NOTICE, Explanation of................... ii Numbers, Identification................ 184

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Occupant Protection System............ 4
Octane Requirement, Gasoline...... 80
Odometer..........................................37
Odometer, Trip................................ 37
Oil

Change, How to ......................... 120
Change, When to....................... 112
Checking Engine......................... 84
Pressure Indicator............... 35, 174
Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart....................................... 119
ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 46
Opening the Hatch.......................... 47
Opening the Hood........................... 83
Operation in Foreign Countries..... 81
Outside Mirrors............................... 51
Overheating, Engine..................... 172
Owner Maintenance Checks........ 116

Panel Brightness Control............... 42
Park Gear Position........................... 95
Parking..............................................99

Parking Brake.................................. 52
Parking Lights.................................. 41
Parking Over Things that Burn... 193
PGM-FI System.............................. 192
Polishing and Waxing................... 159
Power

Mirrors.......................................... 51
Steering....................................... 131
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 10
Proper Seat Belt Usage..................... 7

Radiator Overheating.................... 172
Radio/Cassette Sound System....... 66
Rear End Towing........................... 182
Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 152
Rear Seat Access ............................. 50
Rear Seat, Folding........................... 50
Rear View Mirror............................. 51
Rear Window Defogger.................. 44
Rear Window Washer..................... 44
Rear Window Wiper........................ 44
Reclining the Seat Backs................ 48
Recommended Shift Speeds........... 93
Reminder Lights.............................. 33

Replacement Information

Air Cleaner Element.................. 132
Coolant........................................124
Engine Oil and Filter................. 120
Fuses........................................... 178
Light Bulbs................................. 149
Schedule..................................... 112
Spark Plugs................................. 133
Timing Belt................................. 140
Tires............................................ 144
Wiper Blades.............................. 137

Replacing Seat Belts After a

Crash............................................. 11
Reserve Tank, Coolant.................... 85
Restraint, Child................................ 20
Reverse Gear Position..................... 96
Rotation, Tire................................. 144

Safety Belts......................................... 5
Safety Defects, Reporting* .......... 200
Safety Labels, Location of.............. 29
Safety Messages................................ ii

Main MenustSeat Belts............................................ 5
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 10
Child Seat Anchor Plate.............. 26
Cleaning...................................... 160
Frayed or Torn............................. 11
Maintenance................................. 11
Reminder Light and Beeper....... 34
Replacement................................. 11
System Components...................... 6
Tether Attachment Points.......... 25
Use During Pregnancy................ 10
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7
Wearing the Lap Belt.................... 9
Seats, Adjusting the......................... 48
Serial Number................................ 184
Service Intervals............................ 112
Service Manual* ............................ 201
Service Station Procedures ............ 82
Setting the Clock............................. 71
Shifting

The Automatic

Transmission............................ 94

The 5-speed Manual

Transmission............................ 92

Shift Lever Position

Indicator........................................ 94

Shift Lock Release........................... 98
Side Marker Lights, Bulb

Replacement in.......................... 151
Signaling Turns................................ 42
Snow Tires...................................... 146
Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 158
Sound System................................... 66
Spare Tire

Inflating....................................... 164
Specifications............................. 187
Spark Plugs, Replacing................. 133
Specifications Charts..................... 186
Speedometer.................................... 37
SRS Indicator.............................. 16, 35
START (Ignition Key Position)..... 46
Starting the Engine.......................... 91

In Cold Weather at High

Altitude..................................... 91
With a Dead Battery ................. 170
Steam Coming from Engine......... 172
Steering Wheel

Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 46
Stereo Sound System...................... 66
Storing Your Car............................ 156
Supplemental Restraint System

Service Precautions..................... 17

Index

Servicing....................................... 16
SRS Indicator.......................... 16, 35
System Components.................... 12
Synthetic Oil............................... 119

Tachometer...................................... 37
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 152
Taking Care of the

Unexpected................................ 163
Tape Player....................................... 72
Technical Descriptions

Emission Control Systems........ 191
Three Way Catalytic

Converter................................ 193
Tire Information........................ 188
Temperature Gauge........................ 38
Tether Attachment Points.............. 25
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 193
Time, Setting the............................. 71
Tire Chains..................................... 146
Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 165

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Tires................................................ 141
Air Pressure............................... 141
Checking Wear.......................... 143
Compact Spare........................... 164
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 189
Inflation....................................... 141
Inspection................................... 143
Replacing.................................... 144
Rotating....................................... 144
Snow............................................ 146
Specifications............................. 187
Tools,Tire Changing.................... 165
Torn Seat Belts................................ 11
Towing

A Trailer...................................... 105
Emergency Wrecker................. 182

Transmission

Checking Fluid Level,

Automatic............................... 128

Checking Fluid Level,

Manual.................................... 129
Fluid Selection............................ 128
Identification Number............... 184
Shifting the Automatic................ 94
Shifting the Manual..................... 92
Treadwear...................................... 189

Trip Meter........................................ 37
Turn Signals..................................... 42

Underside, Cleaning...................... 161
Unexpected, Taking Care

of the...........................................163
Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 189
Unleaded Gasoline........................... 80
Upholstery Cleaning...................... 160
Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 121

Vehicle Capacity Load .................... 88
Vehicle Dimensions....................... 186
Vehicle Identification Number..... 184
Vehicle Storage.............................. 156
Ventilation......................................... 60
VIN.................................................. 184
Vinyl Cleaning................................ 160
Viscosity, Oil................................... 119

Warning Beepers

Key in Ignition.............................. 46
Seat Belts...................................... 34
WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii Warning Labels, Location of.......... 29
Warranty Coverages*................... 199
Washer, Windshield

Checking the Fluid Level......... 127
Operation...................................... 43
Washing.......................................... 158
Waxing and Polishing................... 159
Wheels

Alignment and Balance............. 143
Compact Spare........................... 164
Wrench....................................... 165

Windows

Windshield

Cleaning...................................... 161
Rear, Defogger............................ 44

Cleaning........................................ 43
Defroster...................................... 63

Main MenustMain MenustWipers, Windshield

Changing Blades........................ 137
Operation...................................... 43
Worn Tires..................................... 143
Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 182

* U.S. and Canada only

Index

Main MenustGas Station Information

Gasoline: UNLEADED gasoline Pump octane number of 86 or higher

Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 l (11.9 US gal, 9.9 Imp gal)

Recommended Engine Oil: API SJ or SH grade "Energy Conserving" or "Energy Conserving II" oil SAE 5W-30 viscosity

Tire Pressure (measured cold): Front:

210 kPa (2.1 kgf/cm2, 30 psi)

Rear:

200 kPa (2.0 kgf/cm2, 29 psi)

Spare Tire Pressure: 420 kPa (4.2 kgf/cm2, 60 psi)

Automatic Transmission Fluid: Honda Premium Formula Auto- matic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Main Menust