2002 Honda Civic Sedan Owners Manual

controls. This contributes to air pollution.

01/06/02 17:11:30 31S5A610_168

Filling the Fuel Tank

PPuusshh

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.

1.

Because the fuel fill cap 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 pushing on the handle to the left of the driver’s seat.

FFUUEELL FFIILLLL CCAAPP

Service Station Procedures

3.

4.

Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes.

Stop filling the tank after the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off. Do not try to ‘‘top off’’ the tank, leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.

Your car has an on-board refueling vapor recovery system to help keep fuel vapors from going into the atmosphere. If the fuel nozzle keeps clicking off even though the tank is not full, there may be a problem with this system. Consult your dealer.

CONTINUED

Before Driving 165

01/06/02 17:11:40 31S5A610_169

Service Station Procedures

5.

Screw the fuel fill cap back on, tighten it until it clicks several times. If you do not properly tighten the cap, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp may come on (see page

281

).

6.

Push the fuel fill door closed until it latches.

166

Before Driving

Opening the Hood

HHOOOODD RREELLEEAASSEE HHAANNDDLLEE

LLAATTCCHH

1.

Shift to Park or Neutral and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle located under the lower left corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.

2.

Standing in front of the car, put your fingers between the front edge of the hood and the front grille. The hood latch handle is above the ‘‘H’’ logo. Push this handle up until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.

01/06/02 17:11:47 31S5A610_170

If you can open the hood without lifting the hood latch handle, or the hood latch handle moves stiffly or does not spring back as before, the mechanism should be cleaned and lubricated (see page

226

).

GGRRIIPP

Service Station Procedures

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 (30 cm) above the fender, then let it drop.

After closing the hood, make sure it is securely latched.

SSUUPPPPOORRTT RROODD

CCLLIIPP

3.

Pull the support rod out of its clip by holding the grip and insert the end into the hole on the front left side of the hood.

CONTINUED

Before Driving 167

01/06/02 17:11:57 31S5A610_171

Service Station Procedures

OilCheck

DDIIPPSSTTIICCKK

Check the engine oil level every time you fill the car with fuel. Wait a few minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1.

Remove the dipstick (orange handle).

168

Before Driving

2.

Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel.

3.

Insert it all the way back in its tube.

01/06/02 17:12:07 31S5A610_172

Service Station Procedures

UUPPPPEERR MMAARRKK LLOOWWEERR MMAARRKK

4.

Remove the dipstick again and check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

If it is near or below the lower mark, see

Adding Oil

on page

209

Owner Maintenance on page

Refer to Checks on checking other items in your Honda.

207

for information

EngineCoolantCheck

RREESSEERRVVEE TTAANNKK

MMAAXX

MMIINN

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If Adding it is below the MIN line, see Engine Coolant for 213
information on adding the proper coolant.

on page

Before Driving 169

01/06/02 17:12:20 31S5A610_173

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.

207

(see page

Owner Maintenance

An important part of that mainte- nance is the Checks ). For example, an underinflated 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.

170

Before Driving

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.

01/06/02 17:12:33 31S5A610_174

Modifying your car, or installing some non-Honda accessories, can make your car unsafe. Before you make any modifications or add any accessories, be sure to read the following information.

Accessories Your dealer has Honda accessories that allow you to personalize your car. These accessories have been designed and approved for your car, and are covered by warranty.

Non-Honda accessories are usually designed for universal applications. Although aftermarket accessories may fit on your car, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your car’s handling and stability. (See ‘‘Modifications’’ on page 172
additional information.)

for

Improper accessories or modifications can affect your car’s handling, stability and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding accessories and modifications.

When properly installed, cellular phones, alarms, two-way radios, and low-powered audio systems should not interfere with your car’s computer-controlled systems, such as the SRS and anti-lock brake system.

Accessories and Modifications

However, if electronic accessories are improperly installed, or exceed your car’s electrical system capacity, they can interfere with the operation of your car, or even cause the airbags to deploy.

Before installing any accessory:

Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, or interfere with proper car operation or performance.

Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits (see page

285

).

Have the installer contact your Honda dealer for assistance before installing any electronic accessory.

If possible, have your dealer inspect the final installation.

Before Driving 171

01/06/02 17:12:45 31S5A610_175

Accessories and Modifications

OnlyonU.S.modelsequippedwithside airbags

Donotattachhardobjectsonor If a side airbag nearafrontdoor. inflates, a cup holder or other hard object attached on or near the door could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone.

Donotplaceanyobjectsoverthe outsideedgeofafrontseat-back. Covering the outside edge of a front seat-back, with a non-Honda seat cover for example, could prevent the airbag from inflating properly.

Modifications Do not remove any original equipment or modify your car in any way that would alter its design or operation. This could make your car unsafe and illegal to drive.

In addition, any modifications that decrease ground clearance increase the chance of undercarriage parts striking a curb, speed bump, or other raised object, which could cause your airbags to deploy.

For example, do not make any modifications that would change the ride height of your car, or install wheels and tires with a different overall diameter.

Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of your Supplemental Restraint System. Modifications could make the system ineffective.

Such modifications can adversely affect handling, and interfere with the operation of the car’s anti-lock brakes and other systems.

Additional Safety Precautions

Donotattachorplaceobjectson Any object thefrontairbagcovers. attached to or placed on the covers marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG,’’ in the center of the steering wheel and on top of the dashboard, could interfere with the proper operation of the airbags. Or, if the airbags inflate, the objects could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone.

172

Before Driving

01/06/02 17:12:53 31S5A610_176

CCOONNSSOOLLEE CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT ＊＊

11

FFRROONNTT DDOOOORR PPOOCCKKEETT

TTRRUUNNKK

SSEEAATT--BBAACCKK PPOOCCKKEETT ＊＊

22

GGLLOOVVEE BBOOXX

＊＊ ＊＊

11:: OOnn EEXX aanndd CCaannaaddiiaann LLXX mmooddeellss 22:: OOnn EEXX aanndd LLXX mmooddeellss

Carrying Cargo

Your car has several convenient storage areas so you can stow cargo safely.

The glove box, and the pockets in the front doors and seat-back, are designed for small, lightweight items. The trunk is intended for larger, heavier items. In addition, the back seat can be folded down to allow you to carry more cargo or longer items.

However, carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your car’s handling, stability, and operation and make it unsafe. Before carrying any type of cargo, be sure to read the following pages.

Before Driving 173

01/06/02 17:13:05 31S5A610_177

Carrying Cargo

Load Limit The maximum load for your car is 850 lbs (395 kg).

This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and accessories.

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Add up the weight of all occupants.

Subtract the total from 850 lbs (395 kg).

The final number is the total weight of cargo you can carry.

174

Before Driving

Overloading or improper loading can affect handling and stability and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other loading guidelines in this manual.

Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment

Store or secure all items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash.

Do not put any items on top of the trunk panel. They can block your view and be thrown around the car during a crash.

Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll under the seats and interfere with the driver’s ability to operate the pedals, or with the proper operation of the seats.

Keep the glove box closed while driving. If the lid is open, a passenger could injure their knees during a crash or sudden stop.

01/06/02 17:13:12 31S5A610_178

Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or on a Roof Rack

Distribute cargo evenly on the floor of the trunk, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible.

If you can carry any items on a roof rack, be sure the total weight of the rack and the items does not exceed the maximum allowable weight. Please contact your Honda dealer for further information.

If you fold down the back seat, tie down items that could be thrown about the car during a crash or sudden stop.

If you carry large items that prevent you from closing the trunk lid, exhaust gas can enter the passenger area. To avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning, follow the instructions on page

.54

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving 175

01/06/02 17:13:14 31S5A610_179

176

01/06/02 17:13:20 31S5A610_180

Driving

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the 5-speed manual and automatic transmissions. It also includes impor- tant information on parking your car, and the braking system.

Preparing to Drive Starting the Engine

........................ .......................

. 178
. 179

Starting in Cold Weather

at High Altitude

5-speed Manual Transmission Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter Automatic Transmission

. 179
.................... . 180
.... . 181
..... . 181
.............. .............. . 182
Shift Lever Position Indicator . 182
. 183
Shift Lever Positions ................ .............. Engine Speed Limiter . 185
. 186
Shift Lock Release .................... . 187
........................................... . 187
.............................. . 188
..................... ............. . 188
. 189
............... ....................... . 189

Brake Wear Indicators Brake System Design Anti-lock Brakes

The Braking System

Parking Tips

Parking

Important Safety

Reminders ABS Indicator

Driving in Bad Weather Towing a Trailer

......................... ........................ ............... ...........................

. 190
. 191
. 192
. 193

Driving 177

01/06/02 17:13:33 31S5A610_181

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.

178

Driving

4.

5.

6.

Check that any items you may be carrying with you inside are stored properly or fastened down securely.

Check the adjustment of the seat (see page

88

).

Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors (see page

96

).

7.

Check the adjustment of the steering wheel (see page 76

).

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 ).

16

10.

Turn the ignition switch ON (II). Check the indicator lights in the instrument panel.

11.

Start the engine (see page

179

).

12.

Check the gauges and indicator lights in the instrument panel (see page

59

).

01/06/02 17:13:49 31S5A610_182

1.

Apply the parking brake.

2.

3.

4.

In cold weather, turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

ManualTransmission: Push the clutch pedal down all the way. START (III) does not function unless the clutch pedal is depressed.

AutomaticTransmission: Make sure the shift lever is in Park. Press on the brake pedal.

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.

6.

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.

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 8,000 feet/ 2,400 meters) An engine is harder to start in cold weather. The thinner air found at high altitude above 8,000 feet (2,400

Starting the Engine

meters) 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.

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.

Driving

179

01/06/02 17:13:57 31S5A610_183

5-speed Manual Transmission

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.

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. Push down the clutch pedal, and pause for a few seconds before shifting into Reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they won’t ‘‘grind.’’

When slowing down, you can get extra braking from the engine 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 the vehicle speed is low enough that you will not activate the engine speed limiter in the lower gear. On EX and LX models, make sure the engine speed will not go into the tachometer’s red zone in the lower gear before downshifting.

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.

180

Driving

01/06/02 17:14:09 31S5A610_184

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:

Shift up

Normal acceleration

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th

15 mph (24 km/h) 27 mph (43 km/h) 39 mph (63 km/h) 53 mph (85 km/h)

Shift up

Cruise from acceleration

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th

9 mph (14 km/h) 20 mph (32 km/h) 33 mph (53 km/h) 48 mph (77 km/h)

5-speed Manual Transmission

Engine Speed Limiter OnEXandLXmodels If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, 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.

Before downshifting, make sure the engine will not go into the tachometer’s red zone.

OnDXmodel If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, 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 engine speed by upshifting or slowing down.

Before downshifting, make sure the vehicle speed is low enough that you will not activate the engine speed limiter in the lower gear.

Driving

181

01/06/02 17:14:18 31S5A610_185

Automatic Transmission

Your Honda’s transmission has four forward speeds, and is electronically controlled for smoother shifting. It also has a ‘‘lock-up’’ torque converter for better fuel economy. You may feel what seems like another shift when the converter locks.

Shift Lever Position Indicator

EEXX aanndd LLXX

DDXX

This indicator on the instrument panel shows which position the shift lever is in.

The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid acceler- ation and have the transmission checked by an authorized Honda dealer as soon as possible.

182

Driving

01/06/02 17:14:27 31S5A610_186

Automatic Transmission

Shift Lever Positions

SSHHIIFFTT LLEEVVEERR

To shift from:

P to R

Do this:

Press the brake pedal and press the release button.

Press the release button.

Move the lever.

R to P N to R D to 2
2 to D D to D D to N D to D N to D R to N

RREELLEEAASSEE BBUUTTTTOONN The shift lever has six positions. It must be in Park or Neutral to start the engine. When you are stopped in D, D , 2, N or R, press firmly on the brake pedal, and keep your foot off the accelerator pedal.

−

This position mechani-

Park (P) 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 front of the shift lever to move it.

CONTINUED

Driving

183

01/06/02 17:14:34 31S5A610_187

Automatic Transmission

If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see Shift Lock Release on page 186

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.

184

Driving

−

Drive (D) Use this position for your normal driving. The transmis- sion automatically selects a suitable gear for your speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher speeds when the engine is cold. This helps the engine warm up faster.

−

To shift to Reverse

Reverse (R) 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.

−

Use Neutral if you

Neutral (N) 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.

01/06/02 17:14:43 31S5A610_188

−

This position is similar

Drive (D )3
to D, except only the first three gears are selected. Use D to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D can also keep the transmission from cycling between third and fourth gears in stop-and-go driving.

For faster acceleration when in D or D, 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.

−

To shift to Second,

Second (2) press the release button on the front 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 gear when starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow. It will help reduce wheelspin.

Automatic Transmission

Engine Speed Limiter OnEXandLXmodels If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, 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.

OnDXmodel If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, 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 engine speed by upshifting or slowing down.

Driving

185

01/06/02 17:14:57 31S5A610_189

Automatic Transmission

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.

Put a cloth on the edge of the Shift Lock Release slot cover next to the shift lever. Use a small flat-tipped screwdriver or small metal plate (neither are included in the tool kit) to remove the cover. Carefully pry off the edge of the cover.

186

Driving

RREELLEEAASSEE BBUUTTTTOONN

CCOOVVEERR

4.

Insert the key in the Shift Lock Release slot.

5.

Push down on the key while you press the release button on the shift lever and move the shift lever out of Park to Neutral.

SSHHIIFFTT LLOOCCKK RREELLEEAASSEE SSLLOOTT

6.

Remove the key from the Shift Lock Release slot, then reinstall the cover. Make sure the notch on the cover is on the left side. Return the key to the ignition switch, depress the brake pedal, and restart the engine.

If you need to use the Shift Lock Release, it means your car is developing a problem. Have the car checked by your Honda dealer.

01/06/02 17:15:08 31S5A610_190

Always use the parking brake when you park your car. The indicator on the instrument panel shows that the parking brake is not fully released; it does not indicate that the parking brake is firmly set. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly or your car may roll if it is parked on an incline.

If your car has an automatic transmission, set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the car from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission making it easier to move the shift lever out of Park when you want to drive away.

−

If the car is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb. If you have a manual transmission, put it in first gear.

If the car is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb. If you have a manual transmission, put it in reverse gear.

Make sure the parking brake is fully released before driving away. Driving with the parking brake partially set can overheat or damage the rear brakes.

Parking

Parking Tips

Make sure the moonroof and the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc., in the trunk or take them with you.

Lock the doors with the key or the remote transmitter.

Never park over dry leaves, tall grass, or other flammable materials. The three way catalytic converter gets very hot, and could cause these materials to catch on fire.

Driving 187

01/06/02 17:15:17 31S5A610_191

The Braking System

All Civics are equipped with front disc brakes. The brakes on the rear wheels are drum. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The ABS (on cars equipped with ABS) helps you retain steering control when braking very hard.

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.

188

Driving

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.

Brake Wear Indicators The front disc brakes on all models have audible brake wear indicators. 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.’’

01/06/02 17:15:29 31S5A610_192

Brake System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (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.

FFrroonntt

Anti-lock Brakes The U.S. EX and Canadian LX models have an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as standard equipment. It is optional on the U.S. LX model.

ABS helps to prevent the wheels from locking up and skidding during hard braking, allowing you to retain steering control.

When the front tires skid, you lose steering control; the car continues straight ahead even though you turn the steering wheel. The ABS helps to prevent lock-up and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly; much faster than a person can do it.

The Braking System

You should never pump the brake pedal, this defeats the purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal as you steer away from the hazard. This is sometimes referred to as ‘‘stompandsteer.’’

You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and you may hear some noise. This is normal, it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes.

CONTINUED

Driving

189

01/06/02 17:15:37 31S5A610_193

The Braking System

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 activate the ABS. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

ImportantSafetyReminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the car, only helps with steering control during braking. You should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.

it

A vehicle with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a vehicle without anti- lock. Slow down and allow a greater distance between vehicles under those conditions.

ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly, such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change. Always drive at a safe, prudent speed for the road and weather conditions.

ABS cannot prevent a loss of stability. Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your car to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road.

190

Driving

01/06/02 17:15:43 31S5A610_194

ABSIndicator

AABBSS IINNDDIICCAATTOORR ＊＊

＊＊

UU..SS.. iinnddiiccaattoorr sshhoowwnn

62

The ABS is self-checking. If anything goes wrong, the ABS indicator on the instrument panel comes on (see page ). This means the anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system without anti- lock, providing normal stopping ability. You should have the dealer inspect your car as soon as possible.

The Braking System

Driving

191

01/06/02 17:15:51 31S5A610_195

Driving in Bad Weather

Rain, fog, and snow conditions require 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 conditions.

192

Driving

−

Always drive

Driving Technique 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 (kilometers) 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.

−

Being able to see

Visibility 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

111

).

01/06/02 17:16:00 31S5A610_196

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 vehicle is not designed to tow a trailer. Attempting to do so can void your warranties.

Be very cautious when passing, or being passed by other vehicles. The spray from large vehicles reduces your visibility, and the wind buffeting can cause you to lose control.

Driving

193

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194

01/06/02 17:16:10 31S5A610_198

This section explains why it is important to keep your car well maintained and to follow basic maintenance safety precautions.

This section also includes Maintenance Schedules for normal driving and severe driving conditions, a Maintenance Record, and instruc- tions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.

If you have the skills and tools to per- form more complex maintenance tasks on your Honda, you may want to purchase the Service Manual. See page for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your Honda dealer.

311

Maintenance Safety

...................... . 196
Important Safety Precautions . 197
. 198
.................

Maintenance Schedule

Adding Oil Recommended Oil Synthetic Oil Additives Changing the Oil and Filter

Required Maintenance Record . 205
. 207
Owner Maintenance Checks . 208
Fluid Locations . 209
Engine Oil . 209
. 209
. 210
. 210
. 211
. 213
. 213
. 215
. 219
. 220

... ....... .............................. ...................................... .................................. .................... .............................. .................................... ..... ............................. ............ ....... .................... .......................

Adding Engine Coolant Replacing Engine Coolant

Windshield Washers Transmission Fluid

Cooling System

.........................

. 220

Automatic

Transmission 5-speed Manual Transmission

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake System Clutch System

......................... ................ ............................ ........................... .............................. ..................... .................................... .................................... ..............................

. 221
. 222
. 222
. 223
. 224
. 225
. 226
. 227
. 227

Power Steering Air Cleaner Element Hood Latch Spark Plugs

Replacement

Maintenance

Specifications

Battery Wiper Blades Air Conditioning System Dust and Pollen Filter Drive Belts Timing Belt Tires

............................ ........................................... ................................. .............. .................. ..................................... .................................... ............................................... ......................................

Inflation

. 229
. 230
. 232
. 234
. 235
. 237
. 237
. 238
. 238

Recommended Tire Pressures

for Normal Driving

...........

. 239

Tire Pressure Adjustment for

High Speed Driving

Inspection Maintenance Tire Rotation Replacing Tires and Wheels Wheels and Tires Winter Driving

.......... .................................. .............................. ............................. ... ...................... .......................... ............................. ............................ ............................................. ..................... ........................ ...........................

Headlight Aiming Replacing Bulbs

Snow Tires Tire Chains

. 239
. 240
. 240
. 241
. 242
. 243
. 243
. 243
. 244
. 245
. 247
. 247
. 256

Storing Your Car

Lights

Maintenance 195

01/06/02 17:16:17 31S5A610_199

Maintenance Safety

Regularly maintaining your car is the best way to protect your investment. Proper maintenance is essential to your safety and the safety of your passengers. It will also reward you with more economical, trouble-free driving and help reduce air pollution.

This section includes instructions for simple maintenance tasks, such as checking and adding oil. Any service items not detailed in this section should be performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.

Some of the most important safety precautions are given here. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.

Improperly maintaining this car or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner’s manual.

196

Maintenance

Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.

01/06/02 17:16:26 31S5A610_200

Maintenance Safety

Important Safety Precautions Before you begin any maintenance, make sure your car is parked on level ground and that the parking brake is set. Also, be sure the engine is off. This will help to eliminate several potential hazards:

Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.

Burns from hot parts. Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching any parts.

Injury from moving parts. not run the engine unless in- structed to do so.

Do

Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.

To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline or batteries. Use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.

You should wear eye protection and protective clothing when working near the battery or when using compressed air.

Maintenance

197

01/06/02 17:16:39 31S5A610_201

Maintenance Schedule

The Maintenance Schedule specifies how often you should have your car serviced and what things need attention. It is essential that you have your car serviced as scheduled to retain its high level of safety, dependability, and emissions control performance.

198

Maintenance

The services and time or distance intervals shown in the maintenance schedule assume you will use your car as normal transportation for passengers and their possessions. You should also follow these recommendations:

Avoid exceeding your car’s load limit. This puts excess stress on the engine, brakes, and many other parts of your car. The load limit is shown on the label on the driver’s doorjamb.

Operate your car on reasonable roads within the legal speed limit.

Drive your car regularly over a distance of several miles (kilometers).

Always use unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating (see page 164

).

Which Schedule to Follow: Service your car according to the time and mileage periods on one of the Maintenance Schedules on the following pages.

−

Follow the

U.S. Owners Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions if you drive your car MAINLY under one or more of the following conditions.

Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 10
miles (16 km) per trip.

Driving in extremely hot [over 90°F (32°C)] conditions.

Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving.

Driving with a roof rack, or driving in mountainous conditions.

01/06/02 17:16:48 31S5A610_202

more information.

We recommend the use of genuine Honda parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high- quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability.

U.S. Vehicles: Maintenance, replacement or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.

Driving on muddy, dusty, or de- iced roads.

NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY or NEVER, drive under a ‘‘severe’’ condition, you should follow the Maintenance Schedule for Normal Conditions.

Canadian Owners Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

−

Your authorized Honda dealer knows your car best and can provide competent, efficient service. However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. Keep all the receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out the Maintenance Record. Check your warranty booklet for

Maintenance Schedule

＃

According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with will not void your emissions warranties. However, Honda recommends that all maintenance services be performed at the recommended time or mileage period to ensure long-term reliability.

Maintenance

199

01/06/02 17:17:11 31S5A610_203

Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first.

−

Check engine oil and coolant Replace engine oil Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month) Replace engine oil filter Inspect front and rear brakes Check parking brake adjustment Visually inspect the following items:

miles x 1,000
km x 1,000
months

10
16

20
32

30
48

40
64

50
80

60
96

70
112

80
128

90
144

100
160

110
176

120
192

12

24

36

48

60

72

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

Tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots Suspension components Driveshaft boots Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system ＃ Fuel lines and connections Inspect and adjust drive belts Replace dust and pollen filter ＊ Replace transmission fluid

＃

Replace air cleaner element Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance Replace timing belt, and inspect water pump Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

M/T A/T

Servicethefollowingitemsattherecommendedintervals

＊

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km)

Inspect every 110,000 miles (176,000 km), otherwise adjust only if noisy

Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km) or 7 years

At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years,

then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

1: ＊ 2: ＊ ＃

See Dust and Pollen Filter on page Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 5 years. See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

for replacement information under special driving conditions.

235

199

200

Maintenance

01/06/02 17:17:23 31S5A610_204

Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in U.S. Owners Canadian Owners

Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

to determine which schedule to use.

Refer to page

198

−

−

A, B, C, D, E

as required for each distance/time.

10,000 mi/16,000 km/1 yr 20,000 mi/32,000 km/1 yr 30,000 mi/48,000 km 30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs 40,000 mi/64,000 km/2 yrs 3 yrs 50,000 mi/80,000 km/3 yrs 60,000 mi/96,000 km 60,000 mi/96,000 km/3 yrs 70,000 mi/112,000 km/4 yrs 80,000 mi/128,000 km/4 yrs 90,000 mi/144,000 km 90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs 100,000 mi/160,000 km/5 yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km

6 yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km/6 yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km/7 yrs

120,000 mi/192,000 km 120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs

120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs

Do items in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in D. Do items in A, C. Do items in A, B. Do item in E. Do items in A. Do item in D. Do items in A, B, C. Do items in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in D. Do items in A, C. Do items in A, B. □ □ Do item in E. Do items in A. □ □ Do item in D. □ □ replace every 90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs. Do items in A, B, C. □ 60,000mi/96,000km/5yrs.

Replace transmission fluid (M/T). Replace transmission fluid (A/T), then

Inspect valve clearance, cold engine. Replace spark plugs.

Replace engine coolant, then replace every

Replace timing belt, and inspect water pump. Inspect idle speed.

＊

1:

＃