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Coin Box
Vanity Mirror
Cigarette Lighter
CIGARETTE LIGHTER
COIN BOX
To open the coin box, pull the upper edge. Close it with a firm push.
Only on LX and EX models in the U.S., and EX model in Canada To use the vanity mirror, pull down the passenger's sun visor.
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.
Instruments and Controls
Main MenuTable of Contentsst ASHTRAY
ASHTRAY
Open the front ashtray by pulling on the bottom edge. Push it in to close it. To remove the ashtray for emptying, 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.
Ashtrays
NOTICE
Use the ashtray only for cigarettes, cigars and other smoking materials. To prevent a possible fire and damage to your car, don't put paper or other things that can burn in the ashtray.
Instruments and Controls
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Interior Light
(US: EX)
DOOR ACTIVATED ON
OFF
(US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX)
DOOR ACTIVATED OFF
ON
The interior light has a three- position switch. In the OFF position, the light does not come on. In the center position, the interior light comes on when you open any door. In the ON position, the interior light stays on continuously.
Instruments and Controls
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Comfort and Convenience Features
The heating and air conditioning* system in your car provides a com- fortable driving environment in all weather conditions.
(On the LX and EX models in the U.S., and EX model in Canada) The standard audio system is very versatile. To get the most benefit from this system, read its description in this manual.
Some models have an anti-theft audio system that requires a code number to enable it.
(For other U.S. and Canadian models) Refer to the operating instructions that came with the optional audio system you selected.
* Air conditioning is standard on the EX model in the U.S. It is optional on other models.
Heating and Cooling........................ 68
What Each Control Does............ 70
How to Use the System............... 71Controlling Air Flow
Direction............................... 71
Ventilation................................ 71
To Cool with A/C .................... 72
To Heat..................................... 73
To Heat and Dehumidifywith Air Conditioning.......... 73
To Defog and Defrost............. 74
To Turn Everything Off ............. 74
Audio System................................... 75AM/FM/Cassette Stereo
Audio System........................... 75
Operating the Radio.................... 77
Presetting..................................... 79
Adjusting the Sound.................... 80
Radio Frequencies....................... 81
Operating the Cassette Player... 82
Cassette Search Functions......... 83
Caring for Cassettes.................... 83
Operating the CD Changer........ 84
CD Error Indications................... 86
Caring for the Cassette Player....... 87
Theft Protection............................... 88Comfort and Convenience Features
Main Menust Heating and Cooling
This system has full heating, venti- lation, and air conditioning capabi- lities. You can adjust the system controls to mix these in various combinations. The air flows into the interior at three possible levels, which you can select.
(Only for DX and LX models in the U.S., and LX and EX models in Canada) If you purchased your car without air conditioning, it can be installed at any time. A Genuine Honda air conditioning system is available from your dealer. It meets Honda's high quality standards and is designed to fit your car. Please contact your dealer for more information.
Comfort and Convenience Features
CENTER VENT
SIDE VENT
CLOSE
The direction of air flow 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 windshield. 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.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst UPPER VENT
OPEN
CLOSE
Heating and Cooling
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 from the system.
Mode Buttons These buttons control the direction of air flow. The indicator light shows which button is controlling air flow.
Air Conditioning (A/C) Switch This switch turns the air condi- tioning ON and OFF. The indicator in the switch lights when the A/C is ON.
Comfort and Convenience Features
RECIRCULATION BUTTON
AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH
MODE BUTTONS
FRESH AIR BUTTON
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.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst How to Use the System This section covers the best way to use the system for ventilation, cooling, dehumidifying, defrosting and heating. In most cases, the mode and air source selections are only recommendations. You may prefer different settings.
Use mode to heat or cool the interior more quickly, or to keep out smoke and dust. Leaving the system in the recirculation mode with the A/C off can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to mode as soon as the interior reaches a comfortable temperature or the outside smoky, dusty condition clears.
Heating and Cooling
The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to pro- vide hot and cold air. The heater uses engine coolant to warm the air. If the engine is cold, it will be several minutes before you feel warm air circulating.
The air conditioning system does not depend on engine temperature. It can produce cold air almost immedi- ately.
Ventilation Your car has a flow-through venti- lation system. Air enters the car through vents in front of the wind- shield. It circulates through the interior then exits through vents near the rear window. 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.
Controlling Air Flow Direction Air flows into the interior at three levels: Toward the floor through the dash vents toward the windshield and side windows flow level or combination of levels with the five mode buttons.
. You select the air
and
CONTINUED
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Heating and Cooling
To Cool with A/C To operate the air conditioning system, press the air conditioning switch. Set the fan to the desired speed. You can also use the
mode button to direct air out
of the dash and heater vents.
To cool the interior down rapidly after the car has been sitting in the sun:
1. Start the engine. 2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the
switch.
3. Set the fan to maximum speed. 4. Open the windows partially. Select
and
When the interior reaches a com- fortable temperature, close the windows and set the system for cooling as described above.
Comfort and Convenience Features
MODE BUTTONS
AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH
TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER
FAN CONTROL LEVER
Air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge (see page 39) when using the A/C in heavy traffic or driving up long hills. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the air conditioning until the gauge reads normally.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst To Heat To warm the interior:
MODE BUTTONS
AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH
Heating and Cooling
1. Start the engine. 2. Select 3. Switch the fan to the desired
and
speed.
4. Adjust the warmth of the air with
the temperature control lever.
To Heat and Dehumidify with Air Conditioning Air conditioning removes moisture from the air as it operates. When used in combination with the heater, it makes the interior warm and dry.
1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select
and any desired
mode button.
4. Adjust the temperature control
lever so the mixture of heated and cooled air feels comfortable.
TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER
FAN CONTROL LEVER
This setting is suitable for all driving conditions whenever the outside temperature is above 32°F (0°C).
CONTINUED
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Heating and Cooling
To Defog and Defrost To remove fog from the inside of the windows:
1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select 4. Adjust the temperature control
and
lever so the airflow from the defroster vents feels warm.
5. Turn on the rear window defogger
to help clear the rear window.
To remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield and side windows after the car has been sitting out in cold weather:
1. Start the engine. 2. Select 3. Switch the fan and temperature
and
controls to maximum.
Comfort and Convenience Features
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 shut the system com- pletely off only for the first few minutes of driving in cold weather, until the engine coolant warms up enough to operate the heater. Keep the fan on at all other times so stale air does not build up in the interior.
To rapidly remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield (on very cold days), first select windshield is clear, select avoid fogging the windows.
. Once the to
These settings direct all the air flow to the defroster vents at the base of the windshield and the side window defroster vents. The air flow will get warmer and clear the windows faster as the engine warms up. You can close the side and upper vents with the dial beside each vent. This will send more warm air to the wind- shield defroster vents.
For safety, make sure you have a clear view through all the windows before driving away.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Audio System
(U.S. LX, Canadian EX)
CASSETTE SLOT
ON/VOL KNOB
AM BUTTON
AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio System For LX and EX models in the U.S., and EX model in Canada Your Honda audio system is easy to use, and will give clear A M / FM reception. The preset buttons allow you to select six stations on AM and twelve stations on FM.
TUNE/SEEK BAR PRESET
BUTTONS
FM BUTTON
(U.S. EX)
CASSETTE SLOT
ON/VOL KNOB
AM BUTTON
TUNE/SEEK BAR PRESET
BUTTONS
FM BUTTON
CONTINUED
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Audio System
The cassette system uses Dolby B®* noise reduction to give excellent sound reproduction. The system also senses when a metal or chromium-dioxide (CrO being played and adjusts accordingly. The cassette player features auto- reverse for continuous play.
) tape is
On U.S. EX model The Anti-theft feature disables the system if it is disconnected from the car's battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number.
* Dolby noise reduction manufac- tured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. "DOLBY" and the double-D symbol
are trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
Comfort and Convenience Features
(U.S. LX, Canadian EX)
ON/VOL KNOB
CASSETTE SLOT
AM BUTTON
TUNE/SEEK BAR
(U.S. EX)
ON/VOL KNOB
TUNE/SEEK BAR
PRESET BUTTONS
FM BUTTON
CASSETTE SLOT
AM BUTTON
PRESET BUTTONS
FM BUTTON
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Audio System
(U.S. LX, Canadian EX)
STEREO INDICATOR
ON/VOL KNOB
AM BUTTON
FM BUTTON
(U.S. EX)
STEREO INDICATOR
ON/VOL KNOB
AM BUTTON
Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in AC- CESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on by turning the ON/VOL knob clockwise. The radio comes on and displays the frequency of the station it was last tuned to.
Adjust the volume by turning the ON/VOL knob.
Select the band you want to listen to by pressing the AM or FM button. You will see the selected band and the frequency in the display.
ST will be displayed next to the fre- quency if the station is broadcasting in FM stereo. The AM stereo feature is not available.
FM BUTTON
CONTINUED
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Audio System
You can use any of three methods to find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset buttons.
The TUNE function lets you find a desired frequency. Use the TUNE/SEEK bar to change the frequency in small increments. Press the right side ( higher frequency, and the left side ) to tune to a lower frequency. Press and release to change the frequency to the next number.
) to tune to a
Press the TUNE/SEEK bar and hold it to change to a frequency that is far away. The frequency display will begin to count rapidly. It will stop counting when you release the bar.
Comfort and Convenience Features
(U.S. LX, Canadian EX)
AM BUTTON
TUNE/SEEK BAR
PRESET BUTTONS
FM BUTTON
(U.S. EX)
AM BUTTON
TUNE/SEEK BAR
PRESET BUTTONS
FM BUTTON
Main MenuTable of Contentsst The SEEK function searches the band for stations with a strong signal. Depending on which side you press on the TUNE/SEEK bar, the system searches up or down from the current frequency. Press the bar until you hear a beep, then release it. The system searches until it finds a station with a strong signal, then stops.
Presetting The preset buttons allow you to store radio frequencies for later selection. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two on the FM band.
To store a frequency:
1. Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each Preset button.
2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function
to tune the radio to a desired station.
3. Pick the Preset button you want for that station. Press the button and hold it until you hear a beep.
4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total
of six stations on AM and twelve on FM.
Audio System
Once that station's frequency is stored, simply press and release the proper preset button to tune to it. If you want to change any preset button's selection, store another fre- quency as described. The frequen- cies you preset will be lost if your car's battery goes dead or is discon- nected.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Audio System
Adjusting the Sound Use the Balance and Fader controls to adjust the sound "direction". The Balance control moves it left-to-right. The Fader control moves it front-to- back.
To use either control, push on the knob to get it to pop out. Adjust the front-to-back sound to your liking with the outside ring.
Adjust side-to-side sound balance with the knob. Push the knob back in when you are done.
Comfort and Convenience Features
BAS TRE FAD BAL
BASS CONTROL
TREBLE CONTROL
FADER CONTROL
BALANCE CONTROL
The illumination for the radio con- trols comes on with the instrument panel lights, even if the radio is off. You can use the Balance control to turn off the radio panel illumination even with the radio on. Push the control knob so it pops out, then pull it out slightly further. Check this control if the control panel lights do not come on with the instrument panel lights.
Use the Bass and Treble controls to adjust the tone quality to your liking. Push on the knob to get the controls to pop out. Adjust the bass level with the outer ring and the treble level with the knob. When finished, push the knobs back in so there is less chance of accidentally changing your settings.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Radio Frequencies Your Honda's radio can tune in all frequencies in both the AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequen- cies:
AM band: 530 kilohertz to 1,710 kilohertz FM band: 87.7 megahertz to 107.9 megahertz
Radio stations on the AM band are assigned frequencies at least 10
kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550). Those on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0.2 megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1,88.3).Stations must use these exact frequencies. It is fairly common for stations to round-off the frequency in their advertising, so your radio will show a frequency of 100.9 even though the announcer may call the station "FM101."
Audio System
(U.S. LX, Canadian EX)
AM BUTTON
(U.S. EX)
FM BUTTON
AM BUTTON
FM BUTTON
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Audio System
Operating the Cassette Player Turn the system ON. Insert the cassette into the slot with the tape opening to the right. Push the cassette in most of the way. The drive will pull it in the rest of the way and begin to play.
or will light to show you
The which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates the side you inserted facing upward is now playing. To play the other side of the tape, press the PROG button.
The system also has an Auto-reverse feature. It will automatically reverse direction when it reaches the end of the cassette.
(U.S. LX, Canadian EX)
PLAY BUTTON
REW BUTTON
FF BUTTON
TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR
EJECT BUTTON
PROG BUTTON
TMS BUTTON
DOLBY BUTTON
(U.S. EX)
PLAY BUTTON
REW BUTTON
FF BUTTON
TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR
EJECT BUTTON
PROG BUTTON
TMS BUTTON
DOLBY BUTTON
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst If the tape was recorded with Dolby "B" noise reduction, turn it on by pressing the
button.
To remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button. The system automatically ejects the cassette whenever you turn off the system or the ignition switch.
Cassette Search Functions Once a cassette is playing, you can use the FF, REW or TMS function to look for desired songs or passages.
Press the REW button to rewind the cassette. Press the FF button to fast forward. The cassette stops playing and the light in the button comes on. To stop rewind or fast forward, press the PLAY button. If the system reaches the end of the cassette while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.
The TMS function lets you skip to the beginning of a song or other passage.
Audio System
Press the TMS button and then the FF button or REW button. The tape will automatically advance to the beginning of the next song, or return to the beginning of the song just played. When the system senses a silent period on the tape, it goes back to PLAY mode.
The TMS function uses silent periods on the tape to find the end of a selection. This feature may not work satisfactorily on tapes that have almost no gap between songs, a high noise level between songs, or silent periods in the middle of songs.
Caring for Cassettes Damaged cassettes can jam inside the drive or cause other problems. See page 87 for information on cassette care and protection.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Audio System
Operating the CD Changer (Optional) A Compact Disc changer is available for your car. It holds up to six discs, providing several hours of continu- ous programming. You operate the CD changer with the same controls used for the radio and cassette player.
Load the desired CD's in the magazine and load the magazine in the changer according to the instructions that came with the unit.
(U.S. LX, Canadian EX)
CD BUTTON
ON/VOL KNOB
(U.S. EX)
TUNE/SEEK BAR
ON/VOL KNOB
CD BUTTON
TUNE/SEEK BAR
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst To operate the CD changer, the ignition key must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II). If you are listening to a cassette tape, eject it before playing a CD.
Press the CD button until "CD" appears on the display. Once in the CD mode, the system will start to play the first track of the first disc in the magazine.
When that disc ends, the next disc in the magazine is loaded and played.
After disc 6 has completed, the system will return to disc 1. To make your own disc selection, push one of the six preset buttons. Your selection will appear in the display and start playing.
You can use the TUNE/SEEK bar while a disc is playing to select passages and change tracks. To move rapidly forward within a track, press and hold the the TUNE/SEEK bar. Press and hold the ward within a track. Keep pressing the bar until you think the track has advanced or returned to the desired position. The disc will start playing when you release the bar.
side of
side to move rapidly back-
side and release it,
If you press the the system will skip forward to the beginning of the next track on that CD. It will skip backward to the begin- ning of the current track if you press the
side and release it.
Audio System
If you change modes to radio or tape while a CD is playing, then change back to CD mode, the same disc and track will play.
If you turn off the system while a CD is playing, either with the ON/ VOL knob or by turning off the ignition, the system will begin at the same disc and track when you turn it back on.
If you try to select an empty slot in the magazine, the system will select and play the first track of the next disc in the magazine.
To return to the radio function, press the AM/FM button.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Audio System
CD Error Indications If you see an error indication on the display, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error indication, take the car to your Honda dealer.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst CLEAN INDICATOR
RESET BUTTON
The cassette drive picks up dirt and oxides whenever you play a tape. This builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the cassette drive after every 30 hours of use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit available for this purpose.
After 30 hours of tape use, you will see CLEAN flashing for 5 seconds in the display when you insert a tape into the tape slot. If you are already
Caring for the Cassette Player
regularly cleaning the tape drive at least every 30 hours, reset the indicator by pressing the Reset button while the system is in the tape operation mode. Hold the button until the CLEAN indicator goes out.
If you do not clean the cassette drive regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the deposits with a normal cleaning kit.
The cassette player automatically ejects cassettes that do not play normally. If it ejects a cassette before it begins to play, it is probably defective and should not be inserted again. You may have a cassette suddenly stop playing, reverse directions once or twice and then eject. This is normally an indication the tape is wound unevenly. It should play normally after being manually rewound.
Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes. Cassettes longer than 100 minutes use thinner tape that may break or jam the drive.
Look at a cassette before you insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning one of the hubs with a pencil or your finger.
If the label is peeling off, do not put it in the player. It may cause the cassette to jam in the drive mecha- nism when you try to eject it.
Do not leave cassettes sitting where they are exposed to high heat or humidity, such as on top of the dashboard or in the player. If a cassette is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before putting it in the player.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst You will have to store your favorite stations in the Preset buttons after the system begins working. Your original settings were lost when power was disconnected.
If your car's battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. If this happens, you will see "Code" in the frequency display the next time you turn on the system. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code. If it is entered correctly, the radio will start playing.
If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over or try to correct your mistake. Complete the five-digit sequence, then enter the correct code. You have three tries to enter the correct code. If you are unsuccessful in three attempts, you must then leave the system on for one hour before trying again.
Theft Protection
On U.S. EX model Your car's audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, the user must enter a specific five-digit code in the Preset buttons. Because there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.
You should have received one copy of a card that lists your audio system's code number and serial number. It is best to store one of these cards in a safe place at home, and to keep the other in your wallet or purse. In addition, you should write the audio system's serial number in this Owner's Manual. If you should happen to lose both cards, you must obtain the code number from your Honda dealer. To do this, you will need the system's serial number.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Before you begin driving your Honda, you should know what gasoline to use, and how to check the levels of important fluids. You also need to know how to properly stow luggage or packages. This section will help you. If you plan to add any accesso- ries to your car, please read the information in this section first.
Before Driving
Break-in Period................................ 90
Gasoline............................................ 90
Oxygenated Fuels........................ 90
Driving in Foreign Countries..... 91
Service Station Procedures ............ 92
Filling the Fuel Tank................... 92
Opening the Hood ....................... 93
Fuel Economy.................................. 96
Vehicle Condition........................ 96
Driving Habits.............................. 96
Accessories....................................... 97
Loading Cargo.................................. 98Before Driving
Main Menust Gasoline Your Honda operates most effec- tively on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 86 or higher. Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a persistent, heavy metallic rapping noise in the engine that can lead to mechanical damage.
We recommend gasolines containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits.
Using gasoline containing lead will damage your car's emission controls. This contributes to air pollution and can void certain parts of your warranty.
Oxygenated Fuels Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some areas of the United States and Canada use oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions.
If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirement.
Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel's contents. Some states/provinces require this information to be posted on the pump.
Break-in Period, Gasoline
Break-in Period Help assure your car's future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you drive during the first 1,000 km (600 miles). During this period:
Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.
If you need to add oil, use the engine oil recommended in this owner's manual.
Avoid hard braking. New brakes need to be broken-in by moderate use for the first 300 km (200
miles).You should follow these same re- commendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are relined.
Before Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst The following are the EPA-approved percentages of oxygenates:
ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name "Gasohol."
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.
METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 5% methanol by volume as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline containing more than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or perform- ance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber and plastic parts of your fuel system.
Gasoline
If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.
Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more than the percentages of oxygenates given above are not covered under warranty.
Driving in Foreign Countries Using any type of leaded gasoline in your Honda will affect performance and damage its emission controls. Unleaded gasoline may not be available in other countries. If you are planning to take your car outside the U.S. or Canada, write to Honda at the address shown for information about any modifications your car may need. Be sure to include the year and model of your car.
U.S. Owners: American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Consumer Affairs 1919 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90501-2746
Canadian Owners: Honda Canada Inc. 715 Milner Ave. Scarborough, Ontario M1B 2K8
Before Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.
Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away. Handle fuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately.
3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.
You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes.
4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel pump automatically clicks off. Do not try to "top off" the tank, leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.
5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on,
tighten it until it clicks more than twice.
6. Push the fuel fill door until it
latches.
Service Station Procedures
Filling the Fuel Tank
Pull
1. The fuel fill is on the driver's side
of the car. Park with that side closest to the service station pumps.
2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling
on the handle to the left of the driver's seat.
Before Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Opening the Hood
LATCH
HOOD RELEASE HANDLE
1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle, located under the left lower corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.
2. Standing in front of the car, put
your fingers under the front edge of the hood to the right of center. Slide your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle to the left until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.
Service Station Procedures
SUPPORT ROD
CLIP
3. Pull the support rod out of its clip and insert the end into the hole on the left side of the hood.
To close the hood, lift it up slightly to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot above the fender, then let it drop.
CONTINUED
Before Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Service Station Procedures
Oil Check
DIPSTICK
Check the engine oil level every time you fill the car with fuel. Wait at least two minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.
1. Remove the dipstick (orange
handle).
Before Driving
2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean
cloth or paper towel.
3. Insert it all the way back in its tube.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Service Station Procedures
Engine Coolant Check
RESERVE TANK
Refer to Periodic Checks on page 124 for information on checking other items in your Honda.
MAX
UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK
MIN
4. Remove it again and check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.
If it is near or below the lower mark, see page 127 for information on the proper oil and how to add it.
Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding Engine Coolant on page 131 for information on adding the proper coolant.
Before Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Driving Habits You can improve fuel economy by driving moderately. Rapid acceler- ation, abrupt cornering, and hard braking use more fuel.
Always drive in the highest gear that allows the engine to run and acceler- ate smoothly.
Depending on traffic conditions, try to maintain a constant speed. Every time you slow down and speed up, your car uses extra fuel. Use the cruise control, when appropriate, to increase fuel economy.
A cold engine uses more fuel than a warm engine. It is not necessary to "warm-up" a cold engine by letting it idle for a long time. You can drive away in about a minute, no matter how cold it is outside. The engine will warm up faster, and you get better fuel economy. To cut down on the number of "cold starts," try to combine several short trips into one.
The air conditioning puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to cut down on air conditioning use. Use the flow-through ventilation when the outside air temperature is moderate.
Fuel Economy
The condition of your car and your driving habits are the two most important things that affect the fuel mileage you get.
Vehicle Condition Always maintain your car according to the maintenance schedule. This will keep it in top operating condition.
An important part of that mainte- nance is the Periodic Checks (see page 124). For example an under- inflated tire causes more "rolling resistance," which uses fuel. It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly. In winter, the build-up of snow on your car's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.
Before Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Your Honda dealer has many acces- sories available to personalize your car. Some of these are audio systems, alloy wheels, air conditioning, and color-coordinated carpet floor mats. All Genuine Honda Accessories have been approved by our engineers for installation and use on your car, and are covered by warranty.
Accessories
Some non-Honda accessories you can buy in the "aftermarket" are designed for universal applications. Although they may fit your Honda, they may not be within factory specifications. For example, after- market wheels may not meet Honda's specifications for width and offset. They could cause suspension problems which would not be covered by your warranty. Im- properly-designed accessories can adversely affect your car's handling and stability.
Electronic communications equip- ment, such as cellular telephones and two-way radios are regulated by the FCC (DOC in Canada) and should not interfere with your car's systems. Improper installation, or using electrical equipment not in- tended for mobile use may interfere with your car's operation. If you want to install a cellular telephone, other mobile communications equipment or even add-on stereo amplifiers, please discuss it first with your Honda dealer.
Your car has several computer- controlled systems, including the SRS system, the engine's fuel injection, and the Anti-lock brake system. Strong electronic inter- ference can affect their operation.
In many cases, improper installation is the real cause of problems with aftermarket accessories. Have these accessories installed by qualified technicians who are familiar with your Honda. If possible, have your Honda dealer inspect the final installation.
Before Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Loading Cargo
The maximum load you can carry in your Honda is 395 kg (850 Ibs). It includes the total weight of all passengers and their belongings, and any accessories. This 395 kg (850
Ibs) figure is shown as the Vehicle Capacity Weight on the tire infor- mation label attached to the inside of the glove box.Before Driving
To figure out how much cargo you can carry:
Figure the total "occupant weight" you will be transporting. To do this, multiply the number of people (driver and all passengers) by 70
kg (150 Ibs).Subtract this number from the Vehicle Capacity Weight (395 k g/ 850 Ibs).
This final number is the total weight of cargo you can load in or on the car. With five occupants (driver and four passengers), the maximum recom- mended weight for cargo is 45 kg (100 Ibs).
Where you store this cargo, and how well you secure it, are just as important as how much it weighs. Make sure you load cargo so it will not shift while driving. When storing items in the trunk, place them as far forward as possible.
You could store additional items on the floor behind the front seats. Make sure they cannot roll under the front seat and interfere with the pedals.
If you must carry large objects that prevent you from closing the trunk lid, be aware that exhaust gas can enter the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 28.
Never place items on the shelf behind the back seat. Those items can fly forward and injure you or your passengers if you brake hard or are involved in a collision.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the manual and automatic transmissions. It also includes important information on your car's braking system.
Driving
Preparing to Drive......................... 100
Starting the Engine........................ 1015-speed Manual
Transmission.......................... 101
Automatic
Transmission.......................... 101
Starting in Cold Weather
at High Altitude ..................... 102
5-speed Manual Transmission..... 103
Recommended Shift Points...... 103
Maximum Speeds...................... 104
Automatic Transmission............... 105
Shift Lever Positions................. 105
Maximum Speeds...................... 107
Shift Lock Release..................... 108
The Braking System...................... 109
Brake Wear Indicators.............. 109
Brake System Design................ 110
Anti-lock Brakes........................ 110
Driving in Bad Weather................ 112
Towing a Trailer............................ 113Driving
Main Menust Preparing to Drive
You should do the following checks and adjustments every day before you drive your car.
1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.
2. Check that the hood and trunk are
fully closed.
3. Visually check the tires. If a tire
looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure.
4. Check that any items you may be
carrying with you inside are stored properly or fastened down securely.
5. Check the adjustment of the seat
(see page 54).
6. Check the adjustment of the
inside and outside mirrors (see page 59).
7. Check the adjustment of the steering wheel (see page 45).
8. Make sure the doors are securely
closed and locked.
9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that
your passengers have fastened their seat belts (see page 7).
10.Turn the ignition ON (II). Check the indicator lights in the instru- ment panel.
11.Start the engine (see page 101).
12.Check the gauges and indicator
lights in the instrument panel (see page 33).
Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Starting the Engine
5-speed Manual Transmission 1. Apply the parking brake.
2. In cold weather, turn off all
electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.
3. Push the clutch pedal down all the
way. START (III) does not function unless the clutch pedal is depressed.
4. Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. If the engine does not start right away, do not hold the key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds at a time. Pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again.
5. If the engine does not start within
15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 4 with the accelerator pedal pressed half-way down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.
6. If the engine still does not start,
press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting in order to clear flooding. As before, keep the ignition key in the START (III) position for no more than 15 seconds. Return to step 5 if the engine does not start. If it starts, lift your foot off the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.
Automatic Transmission 1. Apply the parking brake.
2. In cold weather, turn off all
electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.
3. Make sure the shift lever is in
Park. Press on the brake pedal.
4. Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. If the engine does not start right away, do not hold the key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds at a time. Pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again.
CONTINUED
Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst 3. If the engine fails to start in step 2,
push the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it there while you try to start the engine for no more than 15 seconds. If the engine does not start, return to step 2.
Starting the Engine
5. If the engine does not start within
15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 4 with the accelerator pedal pressed half-way down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.
6. If the engine still does not start,
press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting in order to clear flooding. As before, keep the ignition key in the START (III) position for no more than 15 seconds. Return to step 5 if the engine does not start. If it starts, lift your foot off the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.
Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude (Above 2,400 meters/ 8,000 feet) An engine is harder to start in cold weather. The thinner air found at high altitude above 2,400 meters (8,000 feet) adds to the problem. Use the following procedure:
1. Turn off all electrical accessories
to reduce the drain on the battery.
2. Push the accelerator pedal half- way to the floor and hold it there while starting the engine. Do not hold the ignition key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds. When the engine starts, release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up and smooths out.
Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst 5-speed Manual Transmission
Come to a full stop before you shift into reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into reverse with the car moving. Depress the clutch pedal and pause for a few seconds before putting it in reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they won't "grind".
You can get extra braking from the engine when slowing down by shifting to a lower gear. This extra braking can help you maintain a safe speed and prevent your brakes from overheating while going down a steep hill. Before downshifting, make sure engine speed will not go into the tachometer's red zone in the lower gear. Refer to the Maximum Speeds chart.
Rapid slowing or speeding-up can cause loss of control on slippery surfaces. If you crash, you can be injured.
Use extra care when driving on slippery surfaces.
Recommended Shift Points Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you the best fuel economy and effective emis- sions control. The following shift points are recommended:
CONTINUED
Driving
The manual transmission is syn- chronized in all forward gears for smooth operation. It has a lockout so you cannot shift directly from Fifth to Reverse. When shifting up or down, make sure you push the clutch pedal down all the way, shift to the next gear, and let the pedal up gradually. When you are not shifting, do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal. This can cause your clutch to wear out faster.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst 5-speed Manual Transmission
Maximum Speeds The speeds in this table are the maximums for the given gears. If you exceed these speeds, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer's red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine's computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone.
(US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX)
(US: EX)
Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Automatic Transmission
Your Honda's transmission has four forward speeds. It has a "lock-up" torque converter for better fuel economy. You may feel what seems like another shift when the converter locks.
Shift Lever Positions
This display is on the instrument panel. It shows you the position of the shift lever.
SHIFT LEVER
The shift lever has seven positions. It must be in Park or Neutral to start the engine. When you are stopped in D4, D3, 2,1, N or R, press firmly on the brake pedal and keep your foot off the accelerator pedal.
CONTINUED
Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Automatic Transmission
Park (P) — This position mechani- cally locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press on the brake pedal and have your foot off the accelerator pedal. Press the release button on the side of the shift lever to move it.
If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see Shift Lock Release on page 108.
You must also press the release button to shift into Park. To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch.
Driving
Reverse (R) — To shift to Reverse from Park, see the explanation under Park. To shift to Reverse from Neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift. Press the release button before shifting into Reverse from Neutral.
Neutral (N) — Use Neutral if you need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to Park posi- tion if you need to leave the car for any reason. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from Neutral to another gear.
Drive (D4) — Use this position for your normal driving. The transmis- sion automatically selects a suitable gear for your speed and acceleration.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst gear when starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow. It will help reduce wheelspin.
Whenever you move the shift lever to a lower gear, the transmission downshifts only if the engine's redline will not be exceeded in the lower gear.
First (1) — To shift from Second to First, press the release button on the side of the shift lever. With the lever in this position, the transmission locks in First gear. By upshifting and downshifting through 1, 2, D3 and D4, you can operate this transmission much like a manual transmission without a clutch pedal.
Drive (D3) —This position is similar to D4, except only the first three gears are selected. Use D3 to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D3 can also keep the transmission from cycling between third and fourth gears in stop-and-go driving.
For faster acceleration when in D3 or D4, you can get the transmission to automatically downshift by pushing the accelerator pedal to the floor. The transmission will shift down one or two gears, depending on your speed.
Second (2) — To shift to Second, press the release button on the side of the shift lever. This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop. Second gives you more power when climbing, and increased engine braking when going down steep hills. Use second
Automatic Transmission
Maximum Speeds The speeds in this table are the maximums for the given position. If you exceed these speeds, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer's red zone. If this occurs, you will feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine's computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone.
(US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX)
CONTINUED
Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Automatic Transmission
(US: EX)
Driving
Shift Lock Release This allows you to move the shift lever out of Park if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal and pressing the release button does not work.
1. Set the Parking brake.
2. Remove the key from the ignition
switch.
3. Insert the key in the Shift Lock
Release slot next to the shift lever.
4. Push down on the key while you
press the release button and move the shift lever out of Park to Neutral.
RELEASE BUTTON
SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT
5. Remove the key from the Shift Lock Release slot. Depress the brake pedal and restart the engine.
If you need to use the Shift Lock Release, it could mean your car is developing a problem. Have the car checked by your Honda dealer.
Main MenuTable of Contentsst All Civics are equipped with front disc brakes. The brakes on the rear wheels may be disc or drum, depending on model. The braking system is power-assisted to reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal.
Put your foot on the brake pedal only when you intend to brake. Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, causing them to build up heat. Heat build-up can reduce how well your brakes work. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you.
Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by downshifting to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal.
Check your brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Since a longer distance is needed to stop with wet brakes, be extra cautious and alert in your driving.
The Braking System
Brake Wear Indicators The front disc brakes on all cars have audible brake wear indicators. They are also on the rear brakes of cars equipped with ABS. When the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive metallic "screeching" sound when you apply the brakes. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will begin screeching all the time.
Your brakes may sometimes squeal or squeak when you apply them lightly. Do not confuse this with the brake wear indicators. They make a very audible "screeching".
Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst If this happens, you will immediately notice that the brake pedal goes down much farther and you need to press on it much harder. A much longer distance will be needed to stop the car.
Slow the car by downshifting to a lower gear and removing your foot from the accelerator pedal. Pull to the side of the road as soon as it is safe. Because of the longer stopping distance needed, brake system failure is very hazardous. It is best to have your car towed, but if you must drive the car in this condition, be extremely cautious. Have your car repaired as soon as possible.
Anti-lock Brakes The Civic EX model in the U.S. has an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as standard equipment. It is optional on the U.S. LX model. ABS has disc brakes on the rear wheels in place of the standard drum-type brakes. For a further explanation of the ABS equipment, refer to page 198.
ABS helps you maintain steering control. It does this by helping you to prevent the wheels from locking up and skidding.
The Braking System
Brake System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the car (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.
Front
Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst The ABS is always "On". It requires no special effort or driving technique. You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates.
Activation varies with the amount of traction your tires have. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before you feel the pedal pulsation that means the ABS has activated. However, you may feel the ABS activate immedi- ately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice. Under all conditions, the ABS is helping to prevent the wheels from locking so you can retain steering control. You should con- tinue to press on the brake pedal with the same force.
You may feel a slight movement of the brake pedal just after you start the engine. This is the ABS working.
ABS INDICATOR
The Braking System
A car with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces than an equivalent car with- out Anti-lock. The ABS cannot make up for road conditions or bad judg- ment. It is still your responsibility to drive at reasonable speeds for weather and traffic conditions, and to leave a margin of safety.
For a technical description of the ABS hardware, refer to page 198.
The ABS is self-checking. If anything goes wrong, the ABS indicator on the instrument panel comes on (see page 36). This means the Anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system, providing normal stopping ability. You should have the dealer inspect your car as soon as possible.
Driving
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Driving in Bad Weather
Rain, fog, and snow conditions re- quire a different driving technique because of reduced traction and visibility. Keep your car well- maintained and exercise greater caution when you need to drive in bad weather. The cruise control should not be used in these condi- tions.
Driving
Driving Technique — Always drive slower than you would in dry weather. It takes your car longer to react, even in conditions that may seem just barely damp. Apply smooth, even pressure to all the controls. Abrupt steering wheel movements or sudden, hard appli- cation of the brakes can cause loss of control in wet weather. Be extra cautious for the first few miles of driving while you adjust to the change in driving conditions. This is especially true in snow. A person can forget some snow-driving techniques during the summer months. Practice is needed to relearn those skills.
Exercise extra caution when driving in rain after a long dry spell. After months of dry weather, the first rains bring oil to the surface of the roadway, making it slippery.
Visibility — Being able to see clearly in all directions and being visible to other drivers are important in all weather conditions. This is more difficult in bad weather. To be seen more clearly during daylight hours, turn on your headlights.
Inspect your windshield wipers and washers frequently. Keep the wind- shield washer reservoir full of the proper fluid. Have the windshield wiper blades replaced if they start to streak the windshield or leave parts unwiped. Use the defrosters and air conditioning to keep the windows from fogging up on the inside (see page 74).
Main MenuTable of Contentsst Traction — Check your tires frequently for wear and proper pressure. Both are important in preventing "hydroplaning" (loss of traction on a wet surface). In the winter, mount snow tires on all four wheels for the best handling.
Watch road conditions carefully, they can change from moment to moment. Wet leaves can be as slip- pery as ice. "Clear" roads can have patches of ice. Driving conditions can be very hazardous when the outside temperature is near freezing. The road surface can become covered with areas of water puddles mixed with areas of ice, so your traction can change without warning.
Be careful when downshifting. If traction is low, you can lock up the drive wheels for a moment and cause a skid.
Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer
Towing a Trailer Your car is not designed to tow a trailer. Attempting to do so can void
