1999 Honda Civic Sedan Owners Manual

Main MenuTable of ContentstsImmediately turn off all electrical accessories: radio, heater, A/C, rear defogger, cruise control, etc. Try not to use other electrically-operated controls such as the power windows. 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 (kilometers) before the battery is too discharged to keep the engine running. Drive to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

Charging System Indicator

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

This indicator should come on when the ignition switch 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 Contentsts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.

If you have recently refueled your car, 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 at least three times. 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 car 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.

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

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

NOTICE

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

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing on page 259.)

If you must drive the car a short distance in this condition, drive slowly and cautiously.

Brake System Indicator

BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*

*U.S. indicator shown

The Brake System indicator light should normally come on only when the parking brake is not fully released.

If it comes on at any other time, it indicates a problem with the car's brake system. In most cases, the problem is a low fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir. Press lightly on the brake pedal to see if it feels normal. If it does, check the brake fluid level the next time you stop at a

Taking Care of the Unexpected

service station (see page 198). If the fluid level is low, take the car to your dealer and have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

However, if the brake pedal does not feel normal, you should take immediate action. Because of the brake system's dual-circuit design, a problem in one part of the system will still give you braking at two wheels. You will feel the brake pedal go down much farther before the car begins to slow down, and you will have to press harder on the pedal. The distance needed to stop will be much longer.

Slow down by shifting to a lower gear, and pull to the side of the road when it is safe. Because of the longer distance needed to stop, it is hazardous to drive the car. You should have it towed, and repaired as soon as possible. (See Emergency

Main MenuTable of ContentstsIf the electric motor will not close the moonroof, do the following:

ROUND PLUG

1. Check the fuse for the moonroof motor (see page 255). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating.

2. Try closing the moonroof. If the

new fuse blows immediately or the moonroof motor still does not operate, you can close the moonroof manually.

3. Get the moonroof wrench out of

the tool kit in the trunk.

Closing the Moonroof

SOCKET

4. Use a screwdriver or coin to remove the round plug in the center of the headliner.

5. Insert the moonroof wrench into the socket behind this plug. Turn the wrench until the moonroof is fully closed.

6. Remove the wrench. Replace the

round plug.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentstsFuses

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

INTERIOR

TAB

UNDER-HOOD

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.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentstsABS FUSE BOX

Vehicles equipped with ABS have a third fuse box for the ABS. It is in the engine compartment on the passenger's side.

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 257 and 258, 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.

Fuses

FUSE

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.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentstsFuses

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 cigarette lighter or radio).

Taking Care of the Unexpected

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 mechanic.

Main MenuTable of ContentstsINTERIOR FUSE BOX

Fuses

* : On Canadian models

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentstsFuses

UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX

ABS FUSE BOX

Taking Care of the Unexpected

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

There are three popular types of professional towing equipment.

Flat-bed Equipment — The operator loads your car on the back of a truck. This is the best way to transport 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. This is an acceptable way to tow your Honda.

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. This method of towing is unacceptable.

If your Honda cannot be transported by flat-bed, it should be towed by wheel-lift equipment 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.

Emergency Towing

Automatic Transmission

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

, then to N.

NOTICE

Improper towing 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 with the front wheels off the ground.

With the front wheels on the ground, it is best to tow the vehicle no farther than 50 miles (80 km), and keep the speed below 35 mph (55 km/h).

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of Contentsts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.

Emergency Towing

If you decide to tow your car with all four wheels on the ground, make sure you use a properly-designed and attached tow bar. Prepare the car for towing as described above, and leave the ignition switch in Accessory (I) so the steering wheel does not lock. Make sure the radio and any items plugged into the accessory power socket are turned off so they do not run down the battery.

NOTICE

The steering system can be damaged if the steering wheel is locked. Leave the ignition switch in Accessory (I), and make sure the steering wheel turns freely before you begin towing.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of Contentsts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................. 262
Specifications................................. 264
Tire Information............................ 266
Tire Size Designation................ 266
Wheel Size Designation............ 266
Tire Speed Ratings.................... 266
Tire Pressure Adjustment For

High Speed Driving............... 267
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 267
Treadwear.............................. 267
Traction.................................. 268
Temperature.......................... 268

Technical Information

Oxygenated Fuels.......................... 269
Driving in Foreign Countries....... 270
Emissions Controls........................ 271
The Clean Air Act...................... 271
Crankcase Emissions Control

System..................................... 271

Evaporative Emissions Control

System.....................................271

Onboard Refueling

Vapor Recovery................... 271
Exhaust Emissions Controls.... 272
PGM-FI System..................... 272
Ignition Timing Control

System................................. 272

Three Way Catalytic

Converter............................ 272
Replacement Parts..................... 272
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 273

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 ContentstsSpecifications

Dimensions

Capacities

Weights

Engine

* 1 : U.S.: DX, Value Package, and LX, Canada: LX, EX * 2 : U.S.: EX

page 204.

Technical Information

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

engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.11 US gal (0.4

*2 : U.S.: DX, Value Package, and LX, Canada: LX, EX * 3: U.S.: EX *4 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

, 0.09 Imp gal)

Main MenuTable of ContentstsAir Conditioning

Fuses

Lights

* 1 : Without moonroof *2 : With moonroof

Battery

Specifications

page 257

page 258

Alignment

Tires

*1 U.S.: DX, Value Package, and LX, Canada: LX without ABS *2 Canada: EX without ABS *3 U.S.: EX, Canada: LX with ABS, EX with ABS

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentstsTire Speed Ratings The chart below shows many of the different speed ratings currently being used for passenger vehicle tires. The speed 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 vehicle. The following 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.

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

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

S — Speed 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) 14x5 J

14 — Rim diameter in inches.

5 — Rim width in inches.

R — Tire construction code (Radial).

J — Rim contour designation.

14 — Rim diameter in inches.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsts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 211).

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles) 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 Contentsts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.

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.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsts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.

The following are the U.S. EPA and Canada CGSB approved percentages of oxygenates: ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 10 percent ethanol by volume. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name "Gasohol."

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.

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

METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 5 percent methanol by volume as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline containing more than 5 percent methanol by volume may cause starting and/or performance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber and plastic parts of your fuel system.

Oxygenated Fuels

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.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentstsDriving in Foreign Countries

If you are planning to take your Honda outside the U.S. or Canada, contact the tourist bureaus in the areas you will be traveling in to find out about the availability of unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating.

If unleaded gasoline is not available, be aware that using leaded gasoline in your Honda will affect perfor- mance and fuel mileage, and damage its emissions controls. It will no longer comply with U.S. and Canadian emissions regulations, and will be illegal to operate in North America. To bring your car back into compliance will require the replace- ment of several components, such as the oxygen sensors and the three way catalytic converter. These re- placements are not covered under warranty.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsts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 emissions controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emissions controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 178.

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

Crankcase Emissions 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

Emissions Controls

the crankcase back to the intake manifold. They are then drawn into the engine and burned.

Evaporative Emissions Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emissions 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.

Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery The Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) system captures the fuel vapors during refueling. The vapors are adsorbed in a canister filled with activated carbon. While driving, the fuel vapors are drawn into the engine and burned off.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentstsEmissions Controls

Exhaust Emissions Controls The exhaust emissions 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 emissions control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emissions control systems.

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) or the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 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.

Replacement Parts The emissions 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 Acura 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.

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 (N ), and water vapor.

), dinitrogen

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsts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

(U.S.: EX)

(U.S.: DX, Value Package, and LX, Canada: LX, EX)

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.

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.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentstsWarranty and Customer Relations

Customer Relations

Information................................. 276
U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 277
Canada Zone Office Map.............. 278
Warranty Coverages..................... 279
Reporting Safety Defects

(U.S. Vehicles)........................... 280
Authorized Manuals...................... 281

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 262) 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:

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

Emissions Control Systems Defects Warranty and Emissions Performance Warranty — these two warranties cover your vehicle'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.

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

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

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.

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 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 1999 Honda Warranty Information booklet that came with your car for precise information on warranty coverages. Your Honda's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty infor- mation is in a separate booklet.

Canadian Owners Please refer to the 1999 Warranty Manual that came with your car.

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

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 1-800424-9393 (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 and Modifications.... 149
Accessories................................. 149
Additional Safety Precaution.... 150
Modifications............................. 150

ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

Position)........................................ 70
Accessory Power Socket................ 86
Adding

Automatic Transmission

Fluid........................................ 197
Brake Fluid................................. 198
Clutch Fluid................................ 199
Engine Coolant........................... 191
Engine Oil................................... 187
Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 198
Power Steering Fluid................. 200
Windshield Washer Fluid......... 196

Additional Information About

Your Seat Belts........................ 42
Lap Belt......................................... 43
Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 42
Seat Belt Maintenance................ 45
Seat Belt System Components... 42

Additional Information About

Your SRS................................... 45
Additional Safety Precautions.... 48
How Your Airbags Work............ 45
How Your SRS Indicator

Works........................................47
SRS Components......................... 45
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 188
Adjustments

Head Restraints........................... 78
Mirrors.......................................... 83
Seats.............................................. 76
Steering Wheel............................ 65
Airbag (SRS)...................................... 9
Air Cleaner Element...................... 201
Air Conditioning............................... 90
Maintenance............................... 209
Usage............................................. 90
Air Outlets (Vents).......................... 92
Air Pressure, Tires........................ 211
High Speed Driving................... 267
Normal Driving.......................... 212
Alcohol in Gasoline........................ 269
Antifreeze....................................... 191
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Indicator Light..................... 55, 168

Index

Operation.................................... 167

Anti-theft Steering Column

Lock............................................... 70
Appearance Care........................... 231
Ashtrays (Optional)......................... 86
Audio System................... 98, 107, 121
Automatic Speed Control................ 66
Automatic Transmission............... 160
Capacity, Fluid........................... 264
Checking Fluid Level................ 197
Shifting........................................161
Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 160
Shift Lever Positions................. 161
Shift Lock Release..................... 164

Battery

Charging System

Indicator............................ 55, 250
Jump Starting............................. 245
Maintenance............................... 205
Specifications............................. 265

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Before Driving............................... 141
Belts, Seat........................................... 8
Beverage Holder.............................. 85
Body Repairs.................................. 236
Brakes

Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 167
Break-in, New Linings .............. 142
Fluid............................................ 198
Light, Burned-out...................... 223
Parking.......................................... 83
System Indicator.......................... 55
Wear Indicators......................... 166

Brakes, ABS

Operation.................................... 167
System Indicator.................. 55, 168
Braking System.............................. 166
Break-in, New Car......................... 142
Brightness Control, Instruments... 62
Brights, Headlights......................... 61
Bulb Replacement

Back-up Lights........................... 224
Brake Lights............................... 223
Front Parking Lights................. 222
Front Side Marker Lights......... 222
Headlights.................................. 220
High-mount Brake Light.......... 225

Interior Light.............................. 226
License Plate Lights.................. 226
Rear Side Marker Lights.......... 223
Specifications............................. 265
Trunk Light................................ 227
Turn Signal Lights..................... 222
Bulbs, Halogen............................... 220

Cables, Jump Starting With.......... 246
Capacities Chart............................. 264
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 49
Carrying Cargo.............................. 151
Cassette Player

Care 139
Operation.................. 102, 113, 135
CAUTION, Explanation of............... ii CD Changer..................104, 117, 131
CD Player............................... 104, 129
Certification Label......................... 262
Chains............................................. 217
Change Oil

How to......................................... 189
When to....................................... 178
Changing a Flat Tire..................... 239

Changing Engine Coolant............. 193
Charging System Indicator .... 55, 250
Checking

Automatic Transmission

Fluid........................................ 197
Battery Condition...................... 205
Brake Fluid................................. 198
Clutch Fluid................................ 199
Drive Belts.................................. 210
Engine Coolant........................... 147
Engine Oil................................... 146
Fuses........................................... 255
Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 198
Power Steering Fluid................. 200
Checklist, Before Driving............. 156
Childproof Door Locks................... 75
Cleaner, Air.................................... 201
Cleaning

Exterior....................................... 232
Interior........................................ 234
Seat Belts.................................... 234
Vinyl............................................ 234
Windows..................................... 235
Clock, Setting the........ 101, 112, 126
Clutch Fluid.................................... 199
CO in the Exhaust......................... 271

Main MenutsCold Weather, Starting in............. 157
Compact Spare............................... 238
Consumer Information*................ 276
Controls, Instruments and.............. 51
Coolant

Adding......................................... 191
Checking..................................... 147
Proper Solution.......................... 191
Replacing.................................... 193
Temperature Gauge.................... 58
Corrosion Protection..................... 235
Crankcase Emissions Control

System......................................... 271
Cruise Control Operation............... 66
Customer Relations Office........... 276

DANGER, Explanation of................. ii Dashboard........................................ 52
Daytime Running Lights................. 61
Dead Battery, What to Do............ 245
Defects, Reporting Safety............. 280
Defog and Defrost........................... 95
Defogger, Rear Window................. 64
Defrosting the Windows................. 95

DEXRON® III Automatic

Transmission Fluid.................... 197
Dimensions..................................... 264
Dimming the Headlights................ 61
Dipstick

Automatic Transmission........... 197
Engine Oil................................... 146
Directional Signals........................... 62
Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 259
Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 166
Disposal of Used Oil...................... 190
Doors

Locking and Unlocking............... 70
Power Door Locks....................... 71
DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 267
Downshifting, 5-speed Manual

Transmission.............................. 158
Driver and Passenger Safety............ 5
Drive Belts...................................... 210
Driving............................................ 155
Economy..................................... 148
In Bad Weather.......................... 170
In Foreign Countries................. 270

Index

Economy, Fuel............................... 148
Emergencies on the Road............. 237
Battery, Jump Starting.............. 245
Brake System Indicator............ 252
Changing a Flat Tire................. 239
Charging System Indicator...... 250
Checking the Fuses................... 255
Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 249
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 251
Manually Closing Moonroof.... 253
Overheated Engine................... 247
Emergency Brake............................ 83
Emergency Flashers....................... 64
Emergency Towing...................... 259
Emissions Controls........................ 271
Engine

Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 58
Malfunction Indicator

Lamp................................. 56, 251
Oil Pressure Indicator......... 55, 249
Oil, What Kind to Use............... 187
Overheating................................ 247
Specifications............................. 264
CONTINUED

Main MenutsIndex

Ethanol in Gasoline ....................... 269
Evaporative Emissions Controls.. 271
Exhaust Fumes................................ 49
Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

Belts by......................................... 19
Exterior, Cleaning the................... 232

Fabric, Cleaning............................. 234
Fan, Interior...................................... 90
Features, Comfort and

Convenience................................. 89
Filling the Fuel Tank..................... 143
Filters

Air................................................201
Oil................................................ 189

5-speed Manual Transmission

Checking Fluid Level................ 198
Shifting the................................. 158
Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 64
Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 239
Fluids

Automatic Transmission........... 197
Brake........................................... 198
Clutch.......................................... 199

Manual Transmission............... 198
Power Steering........................... 200
Windshield Washer................... 196

FM Stereo Radio

Reception.................................... 127
Folding Rear Seat............................ 79
Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 270
Four-way Flashers........................... 64
Front End, Towing by

Emergency Wrecker................. 259
Fuel.................................................. 142
Fill Door and Cap....................... 143
Gauge............................................ 58
Octane Requirement................. 142
Oxygenated................................ 269
Reserve Indicator......................... 56
Tank, Filling the......................... 143
Fuses, Checking the...................... 255

Gas Mileage, Improving................ 148
Gasohol........................................... 259
Gasoline.......................................... 142
Fuel Reserve Indicator................ 56
Gauge............................................ 58

Octane Requirement................. 142
Tank, Filling the......................... 143
Gas Station Procedures................. 143
Gauges

Engine Coolant Temperature .... 58
Fuel................................................58

Gearshift Lever Positions

Automatic Transmission........... 161
5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 158
Glass Cleaning............................... 235
Glove Box......................................... 84

Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 220
Hazard Warning Flashers.............. 64
Headlights

Daytime Running Lights............. 61
High Beam Indicator................... 56
High Beams, Turning on............ 61
Low Beams, Turning on............. 61
Reminder Beeper......................... 61
Replacing Halogen Bulbs .......... 220
Turning on.................................... 61
Head Restraints............................... 78

Main MenutsHeating and Cooling........................ 90
High Altitude, Starting at.............. 157
High-Low Beam Switch.................. 61
High-mount Brake Light............... 225
Hood, Opening the ........................ 144
Horn................................................... 60
Hot Coolant, Warning about........ 191
Hydraulic Clutch............................ 199
Hydroplaning.................................. 171

Identification Number, Vehicle.... 262
If Your Car Has to be Towed....... 259
Ignition

Keys...............................................69
Switch............................................ 69
Timing Control System............. 272
Important Safety Precautions .......... 6
Indicator Lights, Instrument

Panel.............................................. 53
Infant Restraint................................ 29
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 211
High Speed Driving................... 267
Normal Driving.......................... 212
Inside Mirror................................ 82

Index

Inspection, Tire.............................. 213
Instrument Panel............................. 52
Instrument Panel Brightness......... 62
Interior Cleaning............................ 234
Interior Light.................................... 87
Introduction......................................... i

Jacking up the Car......................... 240
Jack, Tire........................................ 239
Jump Starting................................. 245

Keys................................................... 69

Indicator........................................ 53
Parking.......................................... 61
Turn Signal................................... 62
LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 70
Locks

Anti-theft Steering Column........ 70
Fuel Fill Door............................. 143
Power Door.................................. 71
Trunk............................................ 75
Low Coolant Level......................... 147
Low Fuel Indicator.......................... 56
Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 158
Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 55, 249
Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 264
Luggage.......................................... 151

Label, Certification........................ 261
Lane Change, Signaling.................. 62
Lap Belt............................................. 43
Lap/Shoulder Belts......................... 42
Leaking of Exhaust into Car.......... 49
Lights

Bulb Replacement..................... 220

Maintenance................................... 173
Owner Maintenance Checks.... 185
Record.................................. 183 - 184
Required Indicator....................... 59
Safety........................................... 174
Schedule.............................. 178 - 182

CONTINUED

Main MenutsIndex

Malfunction Indicator Lamp.. 56, 251
Manual Transmission.................... 158
Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 198
Meters, Gauges................................ 57
Methanol in Gasoline.................... 269
Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 82
Moonroof.......................................... 82
Closing Manually....................... 253
Operation...................................... 82

Neutral Gear Position.................... 162
New Vehicle Break-in ................... 142
Normal Shift Speeds...................... 158
NOTICE, Explanation of.................... i Numbers, Identification................ 262

Octane Requirement, Gasoline.... 142
Odometer.......................................... 57
Odometer, Trip................................ 57
Oil

Change, How to......................... 189
Change, When to....................... 178

Checking Engine....................... 146
Pressure Indicator............... 55, 249
Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart....................................... 188
ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 70
Onboard Refueling Vapor

Recovery .................................. 271
Opening the Hood......................... 144
Opening the Trunk.......................... 75
Operation in Foreign Countries... 270
Outside Mirrors............................... 82
Overheating, Engine..................... 247

Windows....................................... 80
Pre-Drive Safety Checklist............. 11
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 19
Protecting Adults............................. 12
Additional Safety Precautions.... 19
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 19
Protecting Children......................... 21
Protecting Infants........................ 29
Protecting Larger Children........ 37
Protecting Small Children.......... 33
Using Child Seats with

Tethers...................................... 40

Panel Brightness Control............... 62
Park Gear Position......................... 161
Parking............................................ 165
Parking Brake.................................. 83
Parking Lights.................................. 61
Parking Over Things that Burn... 273
PGM-FI System.............................. 272
Polishing and Waxing................... 233
Power

Door Locks................................... 71
Mirrors.......................................... 82
Steering....................................... 200

Radiator Overheating.................... 247
Radio/CD/Cassette

Sound System .............. 98, 107, 121
Rear End Towing........................... 259
Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 223
Rear Seat, Folding........................... 79
Rear View Mirror............................. 82
Rear Window Defogger.................. 64
Reclining the Seat Backs................ 77
Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 158
Reminder Lights.............................. 53

Main MenustRemote Transmitter........................ 72
Replacement Information

Air Cleaner Element.................. 201
Coolant........................................ 193
Engine Oil and Filter................. 189
Fuses........................................... 255
Light Bulbs................................. 220
Schedule..................................... 176
Spark Plugs................................. 203
Timing Belt................................. 210
Tires............................................ 215
Wiper Blades.............................. 207

Replacing Seat Belts After a

Crash............................................. 45
Reserve Tank, Engine Coolant.... 147
Restraint, Child................................ 21
Reverse Gear Position................... 162
Rotation, Tire................................. 214

Safety Belts......................................... 8
Safety Defects, Reporting* .......... 280
Safety Features.................................. 7
Airbags............................................ 9
Door Locks................................... 11

Head Restraints........................... 10
Seat Belts........................................ 8
Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10
Safety Labels, Location of.............. 50
Safety Messages................................ ii Seat Belt, Additional Information.. 42
Lap Belt......................................... 43
Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 42
Seat Belt Maintenance................ 45
Seat Belt System Components... 42
Seat Belts............................................ 8
Cleaning...................................... 234
Maintenance................................. 45
Reminder Light and Beeper....... 54
System Components.................... 42
Tether Attachment Points.......... 40
Use During Pregnancy................ 19
Seats, Adjusting the......................... 76
Serial Number................................ 262
Service Intervals............................ 178
Service Manual* ............................ 281
Service Station Procedures .......... 143
Setting the Clock..........101, 112, 126
Shifting

The Automatic Transmission .. 160

Index

The 5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 158
Shift Lever Position Indicator...... 160
Shift Lock Release......................... 164
Side Marker Lights, Bulb

Replacement in.......................... 222
Signaling Turns................................ 62
Snow Tires...................................... 216
Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 232
Sound System................. 98, 107, 121
Spare Tire

Inflating....................................... 238
Specifications............................. 265
Spark Plugs, Replacing................. 203
Specifications Charts..................... 264
Speed Control................................... 66
Speedometer.................................... 57

CONTINUED

Main MenutsIndex

SRS, Additional Information........... 45
Additional Safety Precautions.... 48
How Your Airbags Work............ 45
How Your SRS Indicator

Works........................................47
SRS Components......................... 45
SRS Service................................... 47
SRS Indicator.............................. 47, 55
START (Ignition Key Position)..... 70
Starting the Engine........................ 157

In Cold Weather at High

Altitude................................... 157
With a Dead Battery ................. 245
Steam Coming from Engine......... 247
Steering Wheel

Adjustment................................... 65
Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 70
Stereo Sound System...... 98, 107, 121
Storing Your Car............................ 229
Supplemental Restraint System..... 45
Servicing....................................... 47
SRS Indicator.......................... 47, 55
System Components.................... 45
Synthetic Oil................................... 188

Tachometer...................................... 57
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 223
Taking Care of the Unexpected .. 237
Tape Player.................. 102, 113, 135
Technical Descriptions

Driving in Foreign Countries... 270
Emissions Control Systems...... 271
Oxygenated Fuels...................... 269
Three Way Catalytic

Converter................................ 273
Tire Information........................ 266
Temperature Gauge........................ 58
Tether Attachment Points.............. 40
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 273
Time, Setting the.......... 101, 112, 126
Timing Belt..................................... 210
Tire Chains..................................... 217
Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 239
Tires................................................ 211
Air Pressure............................... 211
Checking Wear.......................... 213
Compact Spare........................... 238
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 267
Inflation....................................... 211

Inspection................................... 213
Maintenance............................... 213
Replacing.................................... 215
Rotating....................................... 214
Snow............................................216
Specifications............................. 265
Technical Information.............. 266
Technical Information................... 261
Tools, Tire Changing.................... 239
Towing

A Trailer...................................... 171
Emergency Wrecker................. 259

Transmission

Checking Fluid Level,

Automatic............................... 197

Checking Fluid Level,

Manual.................................... 198
Fluid Selection...................197, 198
Identification Number............... 262
Shifting the Automatic.............. 160
Shifting the Manual................... 158
Treadwear...................................... 267
Trip Meter........................................ 57
Trunk................................................. 75
Opening......................................... 75
Open Monitor Light.................. 56

Main MenutsIndex

Wipers, Windshield

Changing Blades........................ 207
Operation...................................... 63
Worn Tires..................................... 213
Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 259

* : U.S. and Canada only

Turn Signals..................................... 62

Underside, Cleaning...................... 235
Unexpected, Taking Care

of the...........................................237
Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 267
Unleaded Gasoline......................... 142
Upholstery Cleaning...................... 234
Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 190

Vehicle Capacity Load .................. 151
Vehicle Dimensions....................... 264
Vehicle Identification Number..... 262
Vehicle Storage.............................. 229
Ventilation......................................... 92
VIN.................................................. 262
Vinyl Cleaning................................ 234
Viscosity, Oil................................... 188

Warning Beepers

Headlights on............................... 61
Key in Ignition.............................. 70
Seat Belts...................................... 54
WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii Warning Labels, Location of.......... 50
Warranty Coverages*................... 279
Washer, Windshield

Checking the Fluid Level......... 196
Operation...................................... 63
Washing.......................................... 232
Waxing and Polishing................... 233
Wheels

Adjusting the Steering................ 65
Alignment and Balance............. 213
Compact Spare........................... 238
Wrench....................................... 240

Windows

Cleaning...................................... 235
Operating the Power................... 80
Rear, Defogger............................ 64

Windshield

Cleaning........................................ 63
Defroster...................................... 95

Main MenutsService Information Summary

Gasoline: Unleaded gasoline, pump octane number of 86 or higher.

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

Recommended Engine Oil: API Service SJ "Energy Conserving" oil, SAE 5W-30
viscosity (see page 151).

Oil change capacity (including filter):

U.S. DX, Value Package, and LX, Canada LX, EX

3.8 US qt (3.6 l , 3.2 Imp qt)

U.S. EX

3.5 US qt (3.3 l , 2.9 Imp qt)

Automatic Transmission Fluid: Honda Premium Formula Automatic Transmission Fluid preferred, or a DEXRON ® III ATF as a temporary replacement (see page 197).

5-speed Manual Transmission Fluid: Honda Manual Transmission Fluid preferred, or an API service SG, SH or SJ, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 motor oil as a temporary replacement (see page 198).

Capacity (including differential):

1.9 US qt (1.8 l ,1.6 Imp qt)

Power Steering Fluid: Genuine Honda Power Steering Fluid preferred, or another brand of power steering fluid as a temporary replacement. Do not use ATF (see page 200).

Brake Fluid: Genuine Honda DOTS Brake Fluid preferred, or a DOT 3 or DOT 4
brake fluid as a temporary replacement (see page 199).

Tire Pressure (measured cold): Front:

30psi(210kPa,2.1 kgf/cm2)

Rear:

29 psi (200 kPa , 2.0 kgf/cm2)

Main Menust