2002 Honda Civic Sedan Owners Manual

236

Maintenance

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Drive Belts

PPOOWWEERR SSTTEEEERRIINNGG BBEELLTT

The belts should have the following ‘‘play’’ or deflection.

Alternator belt: 0.33 0.43 in (8.5 11.0 mm)

−

−

Power steering belt: 0.51 0.65 in (13.0 16.5 mm)

−

−

If you see signs of wear or looseness, have your dealer adjust or replace the belts.

AALLTTEERRNNAATTOORR BBEELLTT

Check the condition of the two drive belts. Examine the edges of each belt for cracks or fraying.

Check the tension of each belt by pushing on it with your thumb midway between the pulleys.

Drive Belts, Timing Belt

Timing Belt The timing belt should normally be replaced at the intervals shown in the maintenance schedule.

Replace this belt at 60,000 miles (U.S.) or 100,000 km (Canada) if you regularly drive your car in one or more of these conditions:

In very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°C). In very low temperatures (under

29°C).

20°F,

−

−

Maintenance 237

01/06/02 17:23:44 31S5A610_241

Tires

To safely operate your car, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated. The following pages give more detailed information on how and when to check air pressure, how to inspect your tires for damage and wear, and what to do when your tires need to be replaced.

Using tires that are excessively worn or improperly inflated can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding tire inflation and maintenance.

238

Maintenance

Inflation Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life and riding comfort. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated. Overinflated tires can make your car ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

We recommend that you visually check your tires every day. If you think a tire might be low, check it immediately with a tire gauge.

Use a gauge to measure the air pressure at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1
to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. Remember to check the spare tire at the same time you check all the other tires.

Check the pressure in the tires when they are cold. This means the car has been parked for at least three hours. If you have to drive the car before checking the tire pressure, the tires can still be considered ‘‘cold’’ if you drive less than 1 mile (1.6 km).

If you check the pressure when the tires are hot (the car has been driven several miles), you will see readings 4 to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4
kgf/cm ) higher than the cold reading. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the specified cold pressure. The tire will be underinflated.

You should get your own tire pressure gauge and use it whenever you check your tire pressures. This will make it easier for you to tell if a pressure loss is due to a tire problem and not due to a variation between gauges.

01/06/02 17:24:00 31S5A610_242

RecommendedTirePressuresfor NormalDriving The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions and speeds.

(DX, U.S. LX)

Tire Size

P185/70R14 87S

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving 30 psi (210 kPa , 2.1
kgf/cm )

(EX, Canadian LX)

Tire Size

P185/65R15 86H

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving 30 psi (210 kPa , 2.1
kgf/cm )

The compact spare tire pressure is: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

These pressures are also given on the tire information label on the driver’s doorjamb.

Tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured. However, because leakage is often very slow, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

TirePressureAdjustmentforHigh SpeedDriving DXandU.S.LXmodelsonly 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 in the next column. If you do not adjust the tire pressure, excessive heat can build up and cause sudden tire failure.

Tires

(DX, U.S. LX)

Tire Size

P185/70R14 87S

Cold Tire Pressure for Speeds over 100
mph (160 km/h) 35 psi (240 kPa , 2.4
kgf/cm )

When you return to normal speed driving, be sure to readjust the tire pressure for normal driving. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire pressure.

EXandCanadianLXmodelsonly Tire Pressures for high speed driving are the same as for normal driving.

Maintenance

239

01/06/02 17:24:14 31S5A610_243

Tires

Inspection Every time you check inflation, you should also examine the tires for damage, foreign objects, and wear.

You should look for:

Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if you find either of these conditions.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side of the tire. Replace the tire if you can see fabric or cord.

Excessive tread wear.

240

Maintenance

Maintenance In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment.

The tires were properly balanced by the factory. They may need to be rebalanced at some time before they are worn out. Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consis- tent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel for repair.

IINNDDIICCAATTOORR LLOOCCAATTIIOONN MMAARRKKSS

TTRREEAADD WWEEAARR IINNDDIICCAATTOORR Your car’s tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down to that point, you will see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide band running across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. A tire that is this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see the tread wear indicator in three or more places around the tire.

01/06/02 17:24:21 31S5A610_244

Make sure the installer balances the wheels when you have new tires installed. This increases riding comfort and tire life. Your car’s original tires were dynamic or ‘‘spin’’ balanced at the factory. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

Tire Rotation

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Tires

When shopping for replacement tires, you may find that some tires are ‘‘directional.’’ This means they are designed to rotate only in one direction. If you use directional tires, they should be rotated only front-to- back.

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To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, you should have the tires rotated every 10,000 miles (16,000 km). Move the tires to the positions shown in the chart each time they are rotated.

Maintenance 241

01/06/02 17:24:30 31S5A610_245

Tires

Replacing Tires and Wheels The tires that came with your car were selected to match the perform- ance capabilities of the car while providing the best combination of handling, ride comfort, and long life. You should replace them with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall). Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your car can reduce its braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy.

242

Maintenance

The ABS works by comparing the speed of the wheels. When replacing tires, use the same size originally supplied with the car. Tire size and construction can affect wheel speed and may cause the system to work inconsistently.

If you ever need to replace a wheel, make sure the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheel that came on your car. Replacement wheels are available at your Honda dealer.

Installing improper tires on your car can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owner’s manual.

It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, then replace the two front tires or the two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your car’s handling.

01/06/02 17:24:42 31S5A610_246

Wheels and Tires

Wheels:

(DX, U.S. LX)

14 x 5 1/2 JJ

(EX, Canadian LX)

15 x 6 JJ

Tires:

(DX, U.S. LX)

P185/70R14 87S (EX, Canadian LX) P185/65R15 86H

See page DOT Tire Quality Grading.

for information about

298

Tires

＋

Winter Driving Tires that are marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an all-weather tread design. They should be suitable for most winter driving conditions. Tires without these markings are designed for optimum traction in dry conditions. They may not provide adequate performance in winter driving. For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.

SnowTires If you mount snow tires on your Honda, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as the original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels to balance your car’s handling in all weather conditions. Keep in mind the traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may not be as high as your car’s original equipment tires. You should drive cautiously even when the roads are clear. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommenda- tions.

CONTINUED

Maintenance 243

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Tires

TireChains Because your Honda has limited tire clearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’ cable-type traction devices on the front tires. Use traction devices only when required by driving conditions or local laws. Make sure they are the correct size for your tires.

Metal link-type ‘‘chains’’ should not be used. No matter how tight they seem to be installed, they can come into contact with the body and suspension, causing serious damage.

When installing cables, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and mount them as tightly as you can. Drive slowly with them installed. If you hear them coming in contact with the body or chassis, stop and investigate. Make sure the cables are installed tightly, and that they are not contacting the brake lines or suspension. Remove them as soon as you begin driving on cleared roads.

Traction devices that are the wrong size or improperly installed can damage your vehicle’s brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are hitting any part of the vehicle.

244

Maintenance

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Check the operation of your car’s exterior lights at least once a month. A burned out bulb can create an unsafe condition by reducing your car’s visibility and the ability to signal your intentions to other drivers.

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Lights

PPAARRKKIINNGG LLIIGGHHTT

CONTINUED

Maintenance 245

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Lights

SSTTOOPP//TTAAIILLLLIIGGHHTT// RREEAARR SSIIDDEE MMAARRKKEERR LLIIGGHHTT

TTAAIILLLLIIGGHHTT

HHIIGGHH--MMOOUUNNTT BBRRAAKKEE LLIIGGHHTT

LLIICCEENNSSEE PPLLAATTEE LLIIGGHHTTSS

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BBAACCKK--UUPP LLIIGGHHTT

246

Maintenance

Check the following:

Headlights (low and high beam) Parking lights Taillights Brake lights High-mount brake light Turn signals Back-up lights Hazard light function License plate light Side marker lights Daytime running lights (Canadian models)

If you find any bulbs are burned out, replace them as soon as possible. Refer to the chart on page to determine what type of replacement bulb is needed.

297

01/06/02 17:25:13 31S5A610_250

Lights

Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your car was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk, readjustment may be required. Adjustment of the headlights should be performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb Your car has halogen headlight bulbs, one on each side. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its steel base and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

HHOOLLDDEERR

1.

Open the hood. If you need to change the head- light bulb on the driver’s side, remove the power steering reservoir tank by pulling it out of its holder.

CONTINUED

Maintenance 247

01/06/02 17:25:27 31S5A610_251

Lights

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HHOOLLDD--DDOOWWNN WWIIRREE

2.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pulling the connector straight back.

3.

Remove the rubber weather seal by pulling on the tab.

4.

Unclip the end of the hold-down wire from its slot. Pivot it out of the way and remove the bulb.

248

Maintenance

Replacing the Front Side Marker/ Turn Signal and Parking Light Bulbs 1.

If you are changing the bulb on the driver’s side, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right, and turn off the engine. If you are changing the bulb on the passenger’s side, turn the steering wheel to the left.

5.

6.

7.

Insert the new bulb into the hole, making sure the tabs are in their slots. Pivot the hold-down wire back in place and clip the end into the slot.

Install the rubber seal over the back of the headlight assembly. Make sure it is right side up; it is marked ‘‘TOP.’’

Push the electrical connector onto the new bulb. Make sure it is connected securely. Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

8.

(Driver’s side) Reinstall the power steering reservoir.

01/06/02 17:25:39 31S5A610_252

HHOOLLDDIINNGG CCLLIIPP

2.

Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to remove the holding clip from the inner fender.

3.

Pull the inner fender cover back.

4.

5.

Remove the socket from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

Lights

6.

Insert the socket back into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

7.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

8.

Put the inner fender cover in place. Install the holding clip. Lock it in place by pushing on the center.

Maintenance 249

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Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs (in Fenders)

FFAASSTTEENNEERRSS

1.

Open the trunk.

Remove the screws in the center of each of the two fasteners on the side of the trunk lining. Pull the lining back.

2.

Determine which of the two bulbs is burned out: stop/taillight/side marker light or turn signal light.

3.

Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

250

Maintenance

4.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

5.

Reinstall the socket into the light assembly by turning it clockwise until it locks.

6.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

7.

8.

Reinstall the trunk lining. Make sure it is installed under the edge of the trunk seal.

Put the fasteners into the holes on the side of the trunk lining. Reinstall the screws.

01/06/02 17:26:09 31S5A610_254

Replacing Rear Bulbs (in Trunk Lid)

1.

Open the trunk.

2.

Determine which of the two bulbs is burned out: taillight or back-up light.

3.

Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

4.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

5.

Insert the socket back into the light assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

6.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

Lights

Replacing a High-mount Brake Light Bulb

1.

2.

Open the trunk and remove the socket from the light assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counter- clockwise.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

251

01/06/02 17:26:20 31S5A610_255

Lights

3.

Reinstall the socket. Turn it clockwise until it locks. Make sure the new bulb is working.

Replacing a Rear License Plate Bulb

4.

Turn on the parking lights and check that the new bulb is working.

5.

Reinstall the socket back in place by pushing it in until it latches.

1.

Open the trunk.

2.

3.

Remove the socket from the light assembly by squeezing the tabs on both sides of the socket.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb in until it bottoms in the socket.

252

Maintenance

01/06/02 17:26:30 31S5A610_256

Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb

Lights

3.

Put the light assembly back into the hole, right side first. Push on the left side until it snaps into place.

1.

Open the trunk. Put a cloth on the left side edge of the trunk light assembly. Remove the trunk light assembly by using a small flat-tipped screwdriver to pry carefully on the left edge of the assembly.

2.

Pull the bulb straight out of the holder. Push the new bulb straight into the holder until it bottoms.

Maintenance 253

01/06/02 17:26:41 31S5A610_257

Lights

Replacing Bulbs in the Interior Lights Although the ceiling light and spotlights come apart the same way, they do not use the same type of bulbs.

1.

Remove the lens by carefully prying on the edge of the lens with a fingernail file or a small flat-tip screwdriver. Do not pry on the edge of the housing around the lens.

254

Maintenance

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Front ceiling light:

Pry on the front edge of the lens in the middle.

Ceiling light:

Pry on the side edge of the lens in the middle.

EEXX

2.

Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs.

3.

Push the new bulb into the metal tabs. Snap the lens back in place.

01/06/02 17:26:51 31S5A610_258

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PPuusshh

LLXX

OnLXmodel 1.

Check which bulb is burned out. Push on the lens of the opposite side you are replacing.

2.

Remove the lens of the burned out bulb by carefully prying on the edge between the lenses with a fingernail file or a small flat-tipped screwdriver.

3.

Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of the bulb holder.

4.

Push the new bulb into the bulb holder.

5.

Reinstall the lens by inserting the outside edge first, then pushing on the inside edge.

Lights

Maintenance 255

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Storing Your Car

If you need to park your car for an extended period (more than one month), there are several things you should do to prepare it for storage. Proper preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your car back on the road. If possible, store your car indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter (see page

211

).

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

Clean the interior. Make sure the carpeting, floor mats, etc. are completely dry.

Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in Reverse (5-speed manual) or Park (automatic).

256

Maintenance

Block the rear wheels.

If the car is to be stored for a longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (if the car is being stored indoors).

Disconnect the battery.

Support the front wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield.

To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and trunk seals. Also, apply a vehicle body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and trunk seals.

Cover the car with a ‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made from a porous material such as cotton. Nonporous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.

If possible, run the engine for a while periodically (preferably once a month).

If you store your car for 12 months or longer, have your Honda dealer perform the inspections called for in the 24 months maintenance schedule (Normal Conditions) as soon as you take it out of storage (see page ). 200
The replacements called for in the maintenance schedule are not needed unless the car has actually reached that time or mileage.

01/06/02 17:27:10 31S5A610_260

Appearance Care

Regular cleaning and polishing of your Honda helps to keep it ‘‘new’’ looking. This section gives you hints on how to clean your car and preserve its appearance: the paint, brightwork, wheels and interior. Also included are several things you can do to help prevent corrosion.

Exterior Care

Washing Waxing Paint Touch-up

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

Interior Care Carpeting Floor Mats Fabric Vinyl Seat Belts Windows Air Fresheners

Corrosion Protection Body Repairs

. 258
. 258
. 259
. 259
. 260
. 260
. 260
. 261
. 261
. 261
. 262
. 262
. 263
. 264

Appearance Care 257

01/06/02 17:27:22 31S5A610_261

Exterior Care

Washing Frequent washing helps preserve your car’s beauty. Dirt and grit can scratch the paint, while tree sap and bird droppings can permanently ruin the finish.

Wash your car in a shady area, not in direct sunlight. If the car is parked in the sun, move it into the shade and let the exterior cool down before you start.

Only use the solvents and cleaners recommended in this Owner’s Manual.

Chemical solvents and strong cleaners can damage the paint, metal, and plastic on your car.

258

Appearance Care

Rinse the car thoroughly with cool water to remove loose dirt.

Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix in a mild detergent, such as dishwashing liquid or a product made especially for car washing.

Wash the car using the water and detergent solution and a soft- bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth. Start at the top and work your way down. Rinse frequently.

Check the body for road tar, tree sap, etc. Remove these stains with tar remover or turpentine. Rinse it off immediately so it does not harm the finish. Remember to re- wax these areas, even if the rest of the car does not need waxing.

When you have washed and rinsed the whole exterior, dry it with a chamois or soft towel. Letting it air-dry will cause dulling and water spots.

As you dry the car, inspect it for chips and scratches that could allow corrosion to start. Repair them with touch-up paint (see page

259

).

01/06/02 17:27:33 31S5A610_262

Waxing Always wash and dry the whole car before waxing it. You should wax your car, including the metal trim, whenever water sits on the surface in large patches. It should form into beads or droplets after waxing.

You should use a quality liquid or paste wax. Apply it according to the instructions on the container. In general, there are two types of products:

−

Waxes A wax coats the finish and protects it from damage by exposure to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You should use a wax on your Honda when it is new.

−

Polishes and cleaner/

Polishes waxes can restore the shine to paint that has oxidized and lost some of its shine. They normally contain mild abrasives and solvents that remove the top layer of the finish. You should use a polish on your Honda if the finish does not have its original shine after using a wax.

Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with removers also takes off the wax. Remember to re-wax those areas, even if the rest of the car does not need waxing.

Exterior Care

Paint Touch-up Your dealer has touch-up paint to match your car’s color. The color code is printed on a sticker on the driver’s doorjamb. Take this code to your dealer so you are sure to get the correct color.

Inspect your car frequently for chips or scratches in the paint. Repair them right away to prevent corrosion of the metal underneath. Use the touch-up paint only on small chips and scratches. More extensive paint damage should be repaired by a professional.

Appearance Care

259

01/06/02 17:27:44 31S5A610_263

Floor Mats Ifequipped

Interior Care

Carpeting Vacuum the carpeting frequently to remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make the carpet wear out faster. Periodically shampoo the carpet to keep it looking new. Use one of the foam-type carpet cleaners on the market. Follow the instructions that come with the cleaner, applying it with a sponge or soft brush. Keep the carpeting as dry as possible by not adding water to the foam.

The genuine Honda driver’s floor mat was designed to hook over the floor mat anchor. This keeps the floor mat from sliding forward and possibly interfering with the pedals.

If you remove the floor mat, make sure to re-anchor it when you put it back in your car.

260

Appearance Care

If you replace it, use a genuine Honda floor mat that is designed to be used with the floor mat anchor in your car.

If you use a non-Honda floor mat in the driver’s footwell, make sure it fits properly and that it can be used with the floor mat anchor.

Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mat, otherwise the additional mats may slide forward and interfere with the pedals.

01/06/02 17:27:52 31S5A610_264

Fabric Vacuum dirt and dust out of the material frequently. For general cleaning, use a solution of mild soap and lukewarm water, letting it air dry. To clean off stubborn spots, use a commercially-available fabric cleaner. Test it on a hidden area of the fabric first, to make sure it does not bleach or stain the fabric. Follow the instructions that come with the cleaner.

Vinyl Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft cloth dampened in a solution of mild soap and water. Use the same solution with a soft-bristle brush on more difficult spots. You can also use commercially-available spray or foam-type vinyl cleaners.

Seat Belts If your seat belts get dirty, you can use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean them. Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. They can weaken the belt material. Let the belts air- dry before you use the car.

Interior Care

LLOOOOPP

Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat belt anchors can cause the belts to retract slowly. Wipe the insides of the loops with a clean cloth dampened in mild soap and warm water or isopropyl alcohol.

Appearance Care 261

Air Fresheners If you want to use an air freshener/ deodorizer in the interior of your car, it is best to use a solid type. Some liquid air fresheners contain chemi- cals that may cause parts of the interior trim and fabric to crack or discolor.

If you use a liquid air freshener, make sure you fasten it securely so it does not spill as you drive.

01/06/02 17:28:00 31S5A610_265

Interior Care

Windows Clean the windows, inside and out, with a commercially-available glass cleaner. You can also use a mixture of one part white vinegar to ten parts water. This will remove the haze that builds up on the inside of the windows. Use a soft cloth or paper towels to clean all glass and clear plastic surfaces.

The rear window def ogger and antenna wires are bonded to the inside of the glass. Wiping vigorously up-and- down can dislodge and break these wires. When cleaning the rear window, use gentle pressure and wipe side-to- side.

262

Appearance Care

01/06/02 17:28:10 31S5A610_266

Two factors normally contribute to causing corrosion in your car:

1.

Moisture trapped in body cavities. Dirt and road salt that collects in hollows on the underside of the car stays damp, promoting corrosion in that area.

Many corrosion-preventive measures are built into your Honda. You can help keep your car from corroding by performing some simple periodic maintenance:

Repair chips and scratches in the paint as soon as you discover them.

2.

Removal of paint and protective coatings from the exterior and underside of the car.

Inspect and clean out the drain holes in the bottom of the doors and body.

Check the floor coverings for dampness. Carpeting and floor mats may remain damp for a long time, especially in winter. This dampness can eventually cause the floor panels to corrode.

Corrosion Protection

Use a high-pressure spray to clean the underside of your car. This is especially important in areas that use road salt in winter. It is also a good idea in humid climates and areas subject to salt air. Cars equipped with ABS have a sensor and wiring at each wheel. Be careful not to damage them.

Have the corrosion-preventive coatings on the underside of your car inspected and repaired periodically.

Appearance Care 263

01/06/02 17:28:17 31S5A610_267

Body Repairs

Body repairs can affect your car’s resistance to corrosion. If your car needs repairs after a collision, pay close attention to the parts used in the repair and the quality of the work.

Make sure the repair facility uses genuine Honda replacement body parts. Some companies make sheet metal pieces that seem to duplicate the original Honda body parts, but are actually inferior in fit, finish, and corrosion resistance. Once installed, they do not give the same high- quality appearance.

When reporting your collision to the insurance company, tell them you want genuine Honda parts used in the repair. Although most insurers recognize the quality of original parts, some may try to specify that the repairs be done with other available parts. You should investi- gate this before any repairs have begun.

Take your car to your authorized Honda dealer for inspection after the repairs are completed. Your dealer can make sure that quality materials were used, and that corrosion- preventive coatings were applied to all repaired and replaced parts.

264

Appearance Care

01/06/02 17:28:22 31S5A610_268

Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more- common problems that motorists experience with their vehicles. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your car towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If Your Engine Won’t Start

...................... .................... .......... Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly

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The Starter Operates

Normally Jump Starting If Your Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp

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

Brake System Indicator Closing the Moonroof Fuses

Checking and Replacing

Emergency Towing

Readiness Codes

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Taking Care of the Unexpected 265

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Compact Spare Tire

Your car has a compact spare tire that takes up less space. Use this spare tire as a temporary replace- ment only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced and put it back on your car as soon as you can.

Check the inflation pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

Follow these precautions whenever you are using the compact spare tire:

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Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any circumstances.

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road sur- faces than the regular tire. Use greater caution while driving on this tire.

Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare.

The wheel of the compact spare tire is designed especially to fit your car. Do not use your spare tire on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.

TTRREEAADD WWEEAARR IINNDDIICCAATTOORR BBAARR The compact spare tire has a shorter tread life than a regular tire. Replace it when you can see the tread wear indicator bars. The replacement should be the same size and design tire, mounted on the same wheel. The compact spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the compact wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

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If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder of a busy road is dangerous. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.

The car can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the car when it is supported only by the jack.

1.

2.

Park the car on firm, level and non-slippery ground away from traffic. Put the transmission in Park (automatic) or Reverse (manual). Apply the parking brake.

Turn on the hazard warning lights and turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Have all the passengers get out of the car while you change the tire.

Changing a Flat Tire

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3.

Open the trunk. Raise the trunk floor mat and the trunk floor by lifting up on the back edge.

4.

Take the tool kit out of the trunk.

5.

Unscrew the wing bolt and take the spare tire out of its well.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

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6.

Turn the jack’s end bracket counterclockwise to loosen it, then remove the jack.

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7.

Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2
turn with the wheel wrench.

8.

Find the jacking point nearest the wheel you are removing. Place the jack under the jacking point. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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Changing a Flat Tire

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WWHHEEEELL WWRREENNCCHH Use the extension and wheel 9. wrench as shown to raise the car until the flat tire is off the ground.

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10.

Remove the wheel nuts and wheel cover. The wheel cover cannot be removed without first removing the wheel nuts. Do not attempt to forcibly pry the wheel cover off with a screwdriver or other tool.

11.

Remove the flat tire. Temporarily place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface of the wheel facing up. You could scratch the wheel if you put it face down.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

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12.

Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth. Wipe the hub carefully, it may be hot from driving.

13.

Put on the spare tire. Put the wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten them fully.

14.

Lower the car to the ground and remove the jack.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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15.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

16.

Place the flat tire face down in the spare tire well.

17.

Remove the spacer cone from the wing bolt, turn it over, and put it back on the bolt.

18.

Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole.

Changing a Flat Tire

19.

Store the jack in the trunk with the end bracket on the left side. Turn the jack’s end bracket to lock it in place. Store the tool kit.

Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and could seriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack, and tools securely before driving.

20.

Store the wheel cover in the trunk. Make sure it does not get scratched or damaged.

21.

Lower the trunk floor and trunk floor mat, then close the trunk lid.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 271

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If Your Engine Won’t Start

Diagnosing why your engine won’t start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you turn the key to START (III):

You hear nothing, or almost nothing. The engine’s starter motor does not operate at all, or operates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motor operating normally, or the starter motor sounds like it is spinning faster than normal, but the engine does not start up and run.

Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly When you turn the ignition switch to START (III), you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound or series of clicks, or nothing at all. Check these things:

Check the transmission interlock. If you have a manual transmission, the clutch pedal must be pushed all the way to the floor or the starter will not operate. With an automatic transmission, it must be in Park or Neutral.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Turn on the headlights and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or don’t light at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting

on page

274

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

Turn the ignition switch to START (III). If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If the fuses are OK, there is proba- bly something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified technician to determine the problem. (See Emergency Towing on page

290

.)

If the headlights dim noticeably or go out when you try to start the engine, either the battery is dis- charged or the connections are corroded. Check the condition of the battery and terminal connec- tions (see page then try jump starting the car from a booster battery (see page

). You can

230

274

).

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If Your Engine Won’t Start

The Starter Operates Normally In this case, the starter motor’s speed sounds normal, or even faster than normal, when you turn the ignition switch to START (III), but the engine does not run.

Do you have fuel? Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) for a minute and watch the fuel gauge. The low fuel level warning light may not be working, so you were not reminded to fill the tank.

If you find nothing wrong, you will need a qualified technician to find the problem. See Towing on page

Emergency 290

There may be an electrical problem, such as no power to the fuel pump. Check all the fuses (see page

286

).

Your car has the Immobilizer System. You should use a properly-coded master or valet key to start the engine (see page ). 78
A key that is not properly coded will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the dash panel to blink rapidly.

Are you using the proper starting Starting the procedure? Refer to Engine 179

on page

Taking Care of the Unexpected

273

To jump start your car, follow these directions closely:

1.

230

). In very cold

Open the hood and check the physical condition of the battery (see page weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or like ice, do not try jump starting until it thaws.

If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can f reeze. Attempting to jump start with a f rozen battery can cause it to rupture.

2.

Turn off all the electrical acces- sories: heater, A/C, stereo system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in Neutral or Park, and set the parking brake.

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Jump Starting

If your car’s battery has run down, you may be able to start the engine by using a booster battery. Although this seems like a simple procedure, you should take several precautions.

A battery can explode if you do not follow the correct procedure, seriously injuring anyone nearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.

You cannot start a Honda with an automatic transmission by pushing or pulling it.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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Jump Starting

3.

＋

Connect one jumper cable to the ) terminal on your positive ( Honda’s battery. Connect the other end to the positive ( ＋ terminal on the booster battery.

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4.

−

Connect the second jumper cable to the negative ( ) terminal on the booster battery. Connect the other end to the grounding strap as shown. Do not connect this jumper cable to any other part of the engine.

The numbers in the illustration show you the order to connect the jumper cables.

5.

If the booster battery is in another vehicle, have an assistant start that vehicle and run it at a fast idle.

CONTINUED

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Jump Starting, If Your Engine Overheats

6.

7.

Start your car. If the starter motor still operates slowly, check the jumper cable connections to make sure they have good metal-to- metal contact.

Once your car is running, discon- nect the negative cable from your car, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your car, then the booster battery.

Keep the ends of the jumper cables away from each other and any metal on the car until all are disconnected. Otherwise, you may cause an electrical short.

If Your Engine Overheats The pointer of your car’s tempera- ture gauge should stay in the mid- range under most conditions. It may go higher if you are driving up a long steep hill on a very hot day. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason.

Your car can overheat for several reasons, such as lack of coolant or a mechanical problem. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the hood. In either case, you should take immediate action.

Driving with the temperature gauge pointer at the red mark can cause serious damage to your engine.

Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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1.

Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in Neutral or Park, and set the parking brake. Turn off the heating and cooling system and all other accessories. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.

2.

If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine.

3.

If you do not see steam or spray, leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading (climbing a long, steep hill on a hot day with the A/C running, for example), the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the tempera- ture gauge comes down to the mid- point then continue driving.

4.

If the temperature gauge stays at the red mark, turn off the engine.

5.

Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.

If Your Engine Overheats

6.

7.

Look for any obvious coolant leaks, such as a split radiator hose. Everything is still extremely hot, so use caution. If you find a leak, it must be repaired before you Emergency continue driving (see Towing ). 290

on page

If you don’t find an obvious leak, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank (see page ). If the level is below the 169
MIN mark, add coolant to halfway between the MIN and MAX marks.

CONTINUED

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If Your Engine Overheats

8.

If there was no coolant in the reserve tank, you may also have to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the pointer reaches the middle of the tempera- ture gauge, or lower, before check- ing the radiator.

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

9.

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

10.

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

11.

Put the radiator cap back on tightly. Run the engine and watch the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair. (See Towing

Emergency

on page

290

.)

12.

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

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Low Oil Pressure Indicator

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4.

Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn of f the engine as soon as you can saf ely get the car stopped.

1.

2.

3.

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

Safely pull off the road and shut off the engine. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.

168

). Although oil level

Let the car sit for a minute. Open the hood and check the oil level (see page and oil pressure are not directly connected, an engine that is very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

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

209

).

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

Emergency

on page

290

Taking Care of the Unexpected

279

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.

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Charging System Indicator

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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